Skiddle's Open Goal: A Weekly Roundup of Football news and events
Here's the latest news from the football world.
Date published: 12th Sep 2022
In light of Queen Elizabeth II's passing, Premier League football was halted this weekend at short notice as the UK entered a period of mourning. This, understandably caused some debate on social media, with fans responding to the Premier League statement. Most highlighted that they had already purchased tickets and accommodation and were set to be left substantially out of pocket.
This was not helped by the fact that the government announced that sporting events could go ahead across the weekend. It was a shame that many fans were deprived of entertainment across the weekend when a silence ahead of each kick-off would have more than sufficed. It also adds an extra squeeze to a Premier League schedule that was tight due to the World Cup starting in November.
Regardless, at least we were able to enjoy the return of the Champions League last week as the English teams returned to mixed results. Jurgen Klopp has promised a reinvention for Liverpool who were destroyed 4-1 by Napoli after Joe Gomez produced one of the worst individual displays in the competition's history. Always beaten by Napoli striker Osimhen, pretty much the whole team walked past him in what was a disgraceful display.
Yet, the whole Liverpool team apart from Diaz and Alisson looked like they have no fight and you have to wonder how bad it will get. Manager curses are common in football, Klopp has been sacked in his seventh season at each club he has managed at. Now in his seventh with Liverpool, will his team drop off completely or will sticking with him until next season reap a reward? He isn't in sacking territory by any means yet, he means too much to the club.
Manchester City predictably walked over Sevilla with a convincing win, whilst Spurs had to dig deep to get a deserved victory against Marseille. The shock of the round came when Dinamo Zagreb beat Chelsea 1-0, with Thomas Tuchel's side looking shell-shocked. It spelt the end of the road for Tuchel at the club.
A surprise given his successful run with the club, there's word that he wasn't favoured by the new owners who are taking a FIFA career mode approach to signing players. They instead wanted Graham Potter, who has performed miracles with Brighton and made them a formidable opponent this season.
In the Europa League Arsenal beat Zurich, whilst Manchester United were beaten 1-0 by Real Sociedad after fielding their second team. It broke Ten Haag's recent unbeaten run. If you want more football action check out the events below...
Glasgow Rangers Fan Zone Liverpool vs Rangers
When: Tuesday 4th October
Where: Factory Project, Liverpool
Rangers are back in the Champions League and they will be enjoying every single moment. They will be bringing down so many fans down to Liverpool that they'll need their own fan park and you can be a part of it. Make sure you book your place to see a famous European night.
Find tickets for Glasgow Rangers Fan Zone Liverpool vs Rangers - here
When: Saturday 17th September
Where: Hanley Town Football Club, Stoke On Trent
We have tickets for Hanley Town games all season long and at their latest home match they'll be facing off against Atherstone. The home side have been enjoying their season so far and have even partaken in some FA Cup upsetting, so they're always an entertaining team to watch.
Find tickets for Hanley Town vs Atherstone - here
World Cup Newcastle Fan Park England vs Wales
When: Tuesday 29th November
Where: Secret Venue, Newcastle
The World Cup kicks off in November and we can't wait to see the nation unite in support once again. If you're in Newcastle or fancy a day trip then this is the fan park for you. Hosted by a footballing legend, they'll be taking you through the key moments as England play Wales.
Find tickets for World Cup Newcastle Fan Park England vs Wales - here
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
