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Alessia Russo and Lauren James share top prize as Chelsea dominate 2025 Women’s Football Awards

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Arsenal striker Alessia Russo and Chelsea’s Lauren James both clinched the coveted Player of the Year honor at the 2025 Women’s Football Awards, a ceremony that highlighted excellence across the women’s game.

Russo’s standout season included 12 goals in 19 Women’s Super League matches and a crucial role in guiding Arsenal to their first UEFA Women’s Champions League final since 2007.

Despite an injury-hit campaign, James also made her mark with three goals in nine appearances, helping Chelsea secure their sixth consecutive WSL title.

Held for the third year running, with Metro as its media partner, the Women’s Football Awards celebrated outstanding talent on and off the pitch.

Chelsea emerged as the most decorated club of the night, named Club of the Year and boasting several individual winners.

Rising star Aggie Beever-Jones was named Young Player of the Year, while Sonia Bompastor earned the Manager of the Year accolade in her first season in charge of the Blues, capping off an exceptional debut campaign.

The evening also honored trailblazers shaping the sport behind the scenes. Chelsea and England midfielder Keira Walsh received the Inspirational Role Model award for her leadership and influence, while former FA executive Kelly Simmons OBE was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing contributions to women’s and grassroots football.

Broadcaster Seema Jaswal was also recognized for her role in growing the game, receiving the Broadcaster of the Year award.

Barcelona’s influence on the international stage was acknowledged as two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas was named International Player of the Year, following a strong campaign that included helping her club defeat Chelsea in the Champions League semi-finals.

The evening was hosted by Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher, who both highlighted the rapid progress and global impact of the women’s game.

Logan noted the inspiring stories that are shaping the sport’s future, while Carragher called the event Europe’s premier celebration of those powering the rise of women’s football.

Brands and organizations were also celebrated for their impact on the sport. Adobe was named Brand of the Year, while Three UK received the Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility award. The FA was recognized for Best Social Media, credited for its vibrant and engaging Lionesses content.

Marketing Campaign of the Year went to Persil and Arsenal for their initiative “Every Stain Should Be Part of the Game,” while the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award was shared by Sky Sports and Tottenham Hotspur.

Additional honors included Anita Asante receiving the Game Changer Award, and Fiona McIntyre named Unsung Hero.

Brighton & Hove Albion was acknowledged for Best Fan Engagement, and Manchester United Foundation earned recognition for its Girls’ Football Development program. Victoria’s Secret was awarded Best Breakthrough Business for its growing involvement in the sport.

The 2025 Women’s Football Awards offered a powerful reminder of how far the game has come and the people driving it forward. From players to pioneers, the night was a testament to the unity, purpose, and momentum that continue to elevate women’s football.

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here's why

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.

As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.

Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.

In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage

The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.

Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.

The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.

Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.

This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.

The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.

According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.

His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.

Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.

Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.

United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.

De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.

Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.

“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.

“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.

“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”

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