Just when you think you have seen all, VAR manages to find a new way to cause controversy. This latest incident happened in a second division game in Spain between Fuenlabrada and Girona. After a high challenge on an opponent, Fuenlabrada’s Cristobal Marquez was shown a straight red card. The midfielder left the pitch and headed down to the tunnel to the dressing room. So far, so normal, right?
Daniel Maldini, son of AC Milan legend Paolo and grandson of the similarly feted Cesare, made his Serie A debut in a 1-1 draw with Hellas Verona. Unlike his family predecessors, who were both defenders, 18-year-old Daniel is an attacking midfielder. Cesare won four Italian titles during his time as a player, then had two spells as Milan manager.
Former Nigeria international Emmanuel Amuneke says he faces a “big task” after taking over at struggling Egyptian Premier League side El-Makkasa on a deal until the end of the season. The 49-year-old was confirmed as Ahmed Hossam Mido’s successor on Saturday to become El-Makkasa’s fourth manager in three years. The Faiyum-based outfit have struggled for form, sitting 15th in the table, just outside the relegation zone on goal difference.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored two penalties to take his tally to 10 goals in his last six games as Juventus beat Fiorentina 3-0. The hosts were first awarded a spot kick for handball in the first half and Ronaldo swept home the penalty. Rodrigo Bentancur was fouled inside the box towards the end of the second half and Ronaldo again converted.
Novak Djokovic defended his Australian Open crown and won a 17th Grand Slam after digging deep into his physical and mental reserves to beat Dominic Thiem in a gripping five-set final. The Serbian second seed won 6-4 4-6 2-6 6-3 6-4 for a record-extending eighth title at Melbourne Park. Djokovic, 32, twice called the doctor while trailing before fighting back. Austrian fifth seed Thiem, 26, still awaits his first major title after losing a third Grand Slam final.
Naija Sports Crib 