Football

Huge hearts and big ambitions kick-off Oceania’s journey

But already three of the smallest nation’s in world football have seen their dreams ended, while for the remainder the coming year provides an opportunity to dream big about the prospects for glory. The likes of continental champions Tahiti and 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa participants New Zealand are turning their attention to their mid-year matches, but for now the spotlight has been elsewhere.

Liverpool end Leicester's unbeaten run

The surprise Christmas leaders were subdued and struggled to contain an energetic Liverpool side who deservedly took the points at Anfield courtesy of substitute Christian Benteke's second-half effort.

Chelsea might have to pay Mourinho to manage rivals

Mourinho is the favourite to replace United manager Louis van Gaal, but may have to accept a pay cut to take over at Old Trafford.

Barcelona win Club World Cup

There was a hint of handball about Messi's goal, although it did not appear to be intentional, as the Argentine brought down Neymar's pass and cleverly flicked the ball past Marcelo Barovero.

Uruguay forward Suarez took his tally in the tournament to five goals after his hat-trick in the semi-final win over Asian champions Guangzhou Evergrande, and 24 goals in as many games this season.

Chelsea record first win following Mourinho sacking

Chelsea beat Sunderland 3-1 this morning at Stamford Bridge to move up one place into 15th on the league ladder.

Earlier this morning, Chelsea announced that the former Netherlands coach Guus Hiddink will be the club's interim manager until the end of the season following Mourinho's dismissal.

Mourinho leaves Chelsea

A statement said Chelsea and the 52-year-old Portuguese Mourinho had parted company by "mutual consent" seven months after he led them to the title by an eight-point margin.

Tonga hosts keeper course

The course, which took place between 9-13 November, was attended by 23 local coaches who are involved in both men’s and women’s football.

New Zealand won't appeal Olympic tournament disqualification

New Zealand made the final of the Oceania qualifying tournament in June but semifinal opponent Vanuatu protested that South African-born defender Deklan Wynne didn't meet FIFA eligibility criteria.

New Zealand Football said Friday it had legal advice recommending an appeal to the Oceania Football Confederation, but felt there was too great a risk to other players from pursuing the case.

Media reports in New Zealand suggest that as many as 18 players who have represented New Zealand from under-17 to senior level in recent seasons may have been similarly ineligible.

Reid honoured at NZFMA awards

All Whites captain and West Ham defender Winston Reid has been named New Zealand Player of the Year at a football awards dinner on Friday.

The accolade was announced at Auckland Grammar School during the Friends of Football’s Celebration of Excellence dinner, held in conjunction with the New Zealand Football Media Association awards.

The highlight of the evening were tributes to All Whites greats Steve Sumner and Brian Turner.

Samoa Bowl to be held in Hawaii

The annual event pits high school all star players from American Samoa against mainland and Hawaii players in football and volleyball.

The Director of Athletics for American Samoa's Department of Education, Tumua Matuu, says the move is about gaining maximum exposure for local athletes.

Governor Lolo has offered to provide financial support and the DOE will raise the rest of the funds needed to cover remaining expenses.

Matuu says volleyball and football have provided nearly 200 college opportunities for American Samoa athletes within the last five years alone.