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Athletic Bilbao star Williams hits out at referee and sends clear warning to Man Utd

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Inaki Williams has issued a rallying cry to Manchester United following their dominant 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final.

Despite the commanding lead held by United, Williams believes his side still has what it takes to mount a dramatic comeback in the second leg at Old Trafford.

United produced a stunning display at San Mames Barria, taking control early on with Casemiro heading home the opener after a well-crafted move from Harry Maguire.

The momentum quickly swung further in United’s favor when Dani Vivian received a red card for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund, setting up Bruno Fernandes to calmly convert the resulting penalty.

Just before halftime, Fernandes struck again with a composed finish, giving the visitors a three-goal cushion and leaving the home crowd stunned.

Athletic players and their coach, Ernesto Valverde, voiced frustration over the penalty incident, arguing that Alejandro Garnacho had handled the ball in the buildup. Valverde questioned the referee’s decision, insisting the handball should have nullified the play.

Williams echoed those sentiments, expressing disappointment in how the call was handled and suggesting that Garnacho’s actions went unnoticed. Still, Williams remained defiant, stating that the tie is far from over and that Bilbao are capable of turning the result around.

Although Williams admitted that his team fell short in their overall performance, he emphasized that nothing is settled yet. Citing Lyon’s earlier success in challenging United, he highlighted the belief and motivation still driving the Basque side as they prepare for the return fixture.

Williams reaffirmed his team’s commitment to fighting for their dream and acknowledged the unwavering support of the Bilbao fans.

Manchester United, meanwhile, received standout performances from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, the latter of whom earned praise from Rio Ferdinand for his commanding presence in midfield. However, Casemiro was quick to stress that the job is not finished.

Speaking after the match, he called for his teammates to show respect to Athletic Bilbao, warning that the Spanish club should not be underestimated.

Having played many high-stakes matches during his time at Real Madrid, the Brazilian veteran made it clear that a second-leg turnaround is still possible if complacency creeps in.

As the two sides prepare for the decisive leg of the semi-final, both camps are well aware that the battle is only halfway done.

United will look to protect their lead and push for a place in the final, while Bilbao aims to defy the odds and produce a performance worthy of their ambitions. With Champions League qualification on the line for United, the stakes remain sky-high heading into the clash at Old Trafford.

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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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