Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts

Thursday 16 March 2017

11 Ways to Make Money While You Sleep

There is a proven sequence of steps you can follow to guarantee your success when you're starting a small business online, which are by doing the following:
  1. Find a need and fill it.
  2. Write copy that sells.
  3. Design and build an easy-to-use website.
  4. Use search engines to drive traffic to your site.
  5. Establish an expert reputation for yourself.
  6. Follow up with your customers and subscribers with email.
  7. Increase your income through back-end sales and upselling.
Anyone, from newbie to seasoned online entrepreneur, can benefit from this process in learning how to start a business online.

Step 1: Find a need and fill it.

Most people who are just starting out make the mistake of looking for a product first, and a market second.
To boost your chances of success, start with a market. The trick is to find a group of people who are searching for a solution to a problem, but not finding many results. The internet makes this kind of market research easy:
  • Visit online forums to see what questions people ask and what problems they're trying to solve.
  • Do keyword research to find keywords that a lot of people are searching, but for which not many sites are competing.
  • Check out your potential competitors by visiting their sites and taking note of what they're doing to fill the demand. Then you can use what you've learned and create a product for a market that already exists--and do it better than the competition.

Step 2: Write copy that sells.

There's a proven sales copy formula that takes visitors through the selling process from the moment they arrive to the moment they make a purchase:
  1. Arouse interest with a compelling headline.
  2. Describe the problem your product solves.
  3. Establish your credibility as a solver of this problem.
  4. Add testimonials from people who have used your product.
  5. Talk about the product and how it benefits the user.
  6. Make an offer.
  7. Make a strong guarantee.
  8. Create urgency.
  9. Ask for the sale.
Throughout your copy, you need to focus on how your product or service is uniquely able solve people's problems or make their lives better. Think like a customer and ask "What's in it for me?"

Step 3: Design and build your website.

Once you've got your market and product, and you've nailed down your selling process, now you're ready for your small-business web design. Remember to keep it simple. You have fewer than five seconds to grab someone's attention--otherwise they're gone, never to be seen again. Some important tips to keep in mind:
  • Choose one or two plain fonts on a white background.
  • Make your navigation clear and simple, and the same on every page.
  • Only use graphics, audio or video if they enhance your message.
  • Include an opt-in offer so you can collect e-mail addresses.
  • Make it easy to buy--no more than two clicks between potential customer and checkout.
  • Your website is your online storefront, so make it customer-friendly.

Step 4: Use search engines to drive targeted buyers to your site.

Pay-per-click advertising is the easiest way to get traffic to a brand-new site. It has two advantages over waiting for the traffic to come to you organically. First, PPC ads show up on the search pages immediately, and second, PPC ads allow you to test different keywords, as well as headlines, prices and selling approaches. Not only do you get immediate traffic, but you can also use PPC ads to discover your best, highest-converting keywords. Then you can distribute the keywords throughout your site in your copy and code, which will help your rankings in the organic search results.

Step 5: Establish an expert reputation for yourself.

People use the internet to find information. Provide that information for free to other sites, and you'll see more traffic and better search engine rankings. The secret is to always include a link to your site with each tidbit of information. 
  • Give away free, expert content. Create articles, videos or any other content that people will find useful. Distribute that content through online article directories or social media sites.
  • Include "send to a friend" links on valuable content on your website.
  • Become an active expert in industry forums and social networking sites where your target market hangs out.
You'll reach new readers. But even better, every site that posts your content will link back to yours. Search engines love links from relevant sites and will reward you in the rankings.

Step 6: Use the power of email marketing to turn visitors into buyers.

When you build an opt-in list, you're creating one of the most valuable assets of your online business. Your customers and subscribers have given you permission to send them email. That means:
  • You're giving them something they've asked for.
  • You're developing lifetime relationships with them.
  • The response is 100 percent measurable.
  • Email marketing is cheaper and more effective than print, TV or radio because it's highly targeted.
Anyone who visits your site and opts in to your list is a very hot lead. And there's no better tool than email for following up with those leads.
Step 7: Increase your income through back-end sales and upselling.
One of the most important internet marketing strategies is to develop every customer's lifetime value. At least 36 percent of people who have purchased from you once will buy from you again if you follow up with them. Closing that first sale is by far the most difficult part--not to mention the most expensive. So use back-end selling and upselling to get them to buy again:
  • Offer products that complement their original purchase.
  • Send out electronic loyalty coupons they can redeem on their next visit.
  • Offer related products on your "Thank You" page after they purchase.
Reward your customers for their loyalty and they'll become even more loyal. The internet changes so fast that one year online equals about five years in the real world. But the principles of how to start and grow a successful online business haven't changed at all. If you're just starting a small business online, stick to this sequence. If you've been online awhile, do a quick review and see if there's a step you're neglecting, or never got around to doing in the first place. You can't go wrong with the basics.

How To Track Your Car/Belongings Using Your Smartphone

Tiny Device Allows You To Track Your Car Using Your Smartphone

Have you ever lost your car on a parking lot? It happens. You park and go shopping. When you get back, you don't have a clue where your car is. Then you start roaming around clicking on the panic button on your car keys so the alarm goes off. It can be frustrating, especially on a hot, sunny day.

No, you don't need to install an expensive GPS system to keep track of your car. That's way too expensive. You would need to pay a monthly subscription fee just to use it.

                                   The device "TrackR" has the size of a coin and can be placed everywhere

But is there a way to track your vehicle without spending a fortune? Yes, now there is!
A California-based startup company was able to make this a reality. They created a tiny device that works with your smartphone, and it could be exactly what you're looking for!

What is it?

It's called TrackR. It is a state-of-the-art tracking device the size of a quarter. It's changing the way we keep track of the important things in our lives.
                              With TrackR you'll gain peace of mind, knowing you can find your car quickly.

How Does it Work?

It's easy! Install the free TrackR app on your smartphone, connect the app to your device and you're ready to go! Simply attach TrackR to whatever you want to keep tabs on. The entire process of setting it up only takes 5 minutes or less.
You can attach it to your keys, briefcase, wallet, your latest tech gadgets and anything else you don't want to lose. Then use the TrackR app to locate your missing item in seconds.
Forget expensive GPS systems or tracking services. Nobody wants to pay expensive monthly subscription fees. We understand how stressful these things can be, and this is the reason why TrackR was created. This device is your VIP when you need to take care of more important things in life.
Remember the car scenario above? If you have the TrackR, you can just hide it under your car's floor mat, in the trunk or in the glove compartment. Somewhere it won't be found if your car gets stolen.
If you forget where you parked your car, whip out your smartphone and open the TrackR app. Tap on the "lost item" icon on the screen and the app will tell you the exact coordinates of the last known location of the TrackR.

How Much is it Going To Cost Me?

You're probably thinking that this device is very expensive... False! TrackR only costs $29/#12000! That's a small price to pay for peace of mind, isn't it?

Where can I buy TrackR?

You can buy it directly from the company's website. They ship worldwide and you'll receive your TrackR within a ~week.
Watch The Video Below To See How TrackR Works:

What else can I do with TrackR?

As we said before, TrackR has unlimited possibilities. The device is small and unobtrusive enough that you can attach it to your pet. Put it on their collar, and the issue of searching for them as they scamper off to nearby places will be over! Attach it to your keys and wallet, and never waste a minute rummaging the whole house for it.
TrackR even comes with a double-sided adhesive so you can stick it to your laptop or under your bike seat. Track down and punish the thieves who steal your expensive things!
Attach it to everything that's important to you!
              With over 3.5 Million units sold worldwide, this is the most affordable solution to trackr your items.

Step by step instructions on how to use Trackr

Now that you are aware of the potential of this curious device, all you need to do is to follow these 3 steps:
1. Get Trackr from the manufacturer website. You’ll get it delivered to your home in about 1 week.
2. Link Trackr with your Smartphone (iPhone or Android) and place it next to the object you don’t want to lose.
3. Download the free app and always have in hand the location of your belongings. As Simple As That!


How to Take Your Business Online and Work for Yourself

For entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own businesses, it's not enough to have a bustling storefront—you need to be able to supplement your sales by building a strong presence online. The internet not only widens the net of your potential customers, a digital identity has become a way of validating and informing what a store has to offer.
E-commerce is a competitive space to navigate: Online real estate is crowded, and there's no shortage of other businesses vying for the same attention on Google. That means not only do your online operations need to run seamlessly, your understanding of digital marketing needs to be sophisticated. But starting your online business doesn't need to mean going into debt earning your MBA.
If you're interested in kick-starting your online business or even just a temporary side hustle, check out online options like The Build Your Web Business Bundle. It includes courses on how to successfully run a business from your home and how to get started developing your own website. This bundle even offers a course breaking down the steps to launch and is your best bet for a comprehensive set of lessons that cover it all. 

Marketing

Marketing is essential to supporting your digital store's growth. You can start digging into the fundamentals of Facebook Ads, SEO and more with The Marketer's Growth & Acquisition Bundle. It offers key lessons on managing a social online presence to earn customers.  

Internet Marketplaces

If you're looking for something with a little lower commitment, check out The Internet Marketplace Entrepreneur Bundle—it teaches you how to use e-commerce sites already in place (Amazon, eBay and more) to start building your online store. 

Finance

And of course you don't really know yourself (or your business) without understanding the money behind it—The Complete Finance & Economics Bundle helps you discover macro and micro financial drivers that affect your purchasing and investing decisions. 

10 Creepiest Abandoned Places on Earth

1. Underwater Lost City Shicheng, China

Fifty-seven years ago, the Xin’an River Hydropower Station trapped the 1,300-year-old Chinese city of Shicheng (Lions City) under water. It was named Lion City after 5 Lion Mountain risen largely behind it. It is truly an astonishing sight. The city stands preserved from destructive forces of erosion, like sun, wind and rain, beneath the Qiandao Lake, so it were almost untouched and managed to stay in pretty good condition. Archeologists call it a “virtual time capsule”, but if you wanna open it, you’ll have to get some scuba gear.
2. Danvers State Insane Asylum
Bet, this time, you’re positive the exteriors for the 2nd season of the AHS: Asylum were filmed in this creepy place. Nope. Wrong again! Danvers State Hospital in Massachusetts has gone by many names; it’s been variously known as the Danvers Insane Asylum, State Lunatic Hospital, even Hell House on the Hill and other such lovely monikers. During its heyday in the 20s and 30s there were controversies over its given out the use of drugs, shock therapy and lobotomies – as a matter of fact, it may have been the birthplace of lobotomy. Eventually, Danvers transformed into unsanitary and equally dangerous place for both the patients and staff. And since its closure it has fallen into a state of despair and severe creepiness. Beware, as it’s one of the most violently haunted asylums in the world.
3. Hotel del Salto — San Antonio del Tequendama, Colombia
No, it’s not the set of American Horror Story: Hotel, even though La Casa del Salto del Tequendama does have a past twisted enough to shoot a movie. It was built up in 1923 and named the Hotel del Santo in the 50s. Picturesque location alongside the Tequendama waterfalls in central Colombia attracted many travelers. A few decades later the level of river pollution caused the hotel’s abandonment. Recently it has been changed into a museum, though. And still, the creepiest part remains the same; many believe that this place is haunted since it was known during its prime time as a site for numerous suicide cases.
4. Pripyat, Ukraine

An abandoned city, located in northern Ukraine, once bustled with almost 500,000 residents is now a radioactive ghost town over-run by nature. In 1986, Pripyat became a ground zero for the deadliest nuclear disaster in history when an ‘accident’ destroyed a reactor and caused deadly radiation to spread throughout the city. The levels of radiation remain too high for people to live there again though it’s safe for tourist to visit. The city will stay abandoned forever, as that much radiation won’t vanish for hundreds of years.
5. House of the Bulgarian Communist Party — Mount Buzludzha, Bulgaria

The Buzludzha monument or the ‘House-Monument of the Bulgarian Communist Party’ used to be a wonder back in the day. Opened in 1981, it served as a symbolic meeting point for the communist regime. But with the fall of the Soviet Union in less than a decade later it went into disrepair; now abandoned, this huge concrete building looks like an alien ship. The extreme location of this otherworldly monument, on Mount Buzludzha, puts it in the path of severe storms, ravaging winds and harsh winters. The outer windows were the first to go, escorted by the most of the metal-tiled roof, which is why the plans are being made to restore it.
6. Kolmanskop, Namibia

Kolmanskop is one of the most famous haunting ghost towns in the world. It is located in the Namib Desert and was founded in the 1900s when first diamond was found in the sand. Within a few years, hundreds of German families set up homes here desperately seeking their fortune. Year by year it has been turning into bustling oasis which had to be abandoned to the wind and sand within just 50 years. Run-down buildings are falling apart, and their insides are filled with sand from the surrounding desert. The remains of Kolmanskop work as a magnet for ghost hunters, which is why De Beers Company set a museum to keep the town in somewhat decent shape and preserve the history of Kolmanskop.
7. Sanzhi UFO Houses, Taiwan

Other-worldly appearance and wacky architecture of these saucer-like houses made them widely known as Sanzhi UFO houses the mysterious “ruins of the future”. Sanzhi Pod City became abandoned two years after it was built. This resort complex was built in 1978 in Taiwan. In 2 years due to some investment issues and other financial losses, the project was abandoned and left to the mercy of time. Sanzhi Pod City managed to find its way onto various A-lists of eerie ghost towns though and even has been used by MTV as a filming location.
8. Red Sands Sea Forts, the United Kingdom

These huge metal Maunsell gun towers were originally constructed in 1943 during the Second World War to protect Britain from the German Navy. The bizarre-looking concrete monsters are named after Guy Maunsell, the engineer that designed them. Some of the towers survived to this day after they were decommissioned and left abandoned in the 50s. A few of them are still standing out as sea, remarkable as ever. Even though their lives weren’t rather long, these forts are outstanding relics of 2WW architectural history.
9. Mirny Diamond Mine – Eastern Siberia, Russia
The second largest excavated hole in the world- Mirny was made by Stalin, who desperately wanted a more independent economy for the USSR. It was the 1st and the largest diamond mine in the Soviet Union. The Mir mine also known as Mirny mine is now inactive after 44 years of surface operation. The mine is 1,722 ft deep and has a diameter of 3,900 ft. It started to develop in 1957. Climate conditions were extremely harsh to mine: 7 winter month of frozen ground vs. brief summer month of the slush-turned ground. And yet Mir mine was producing 10,000,000 carats of diamond/year in the 60s.
10. The Haunting New Bedford Orpheum -U.S.A.

Not only is April 15, 1912, a significant day because of the Auditorium opening, but also it happened to be the day the Titanic sunk. It functioned as the Orpheum for 47 years. This once-mighty theatre space was used to entertain the immense audiences. Since the New Bedford Orpheum closed its doors in 1959, part of the building became a supermarket ant then a warehouse. Sadly today, it remains completely abandoned, and still it never fails to impress, though.


Buhari May Return To The UK For Further Treatment In Three Weeks

In a clear indication that President Muhammadu Buhari’s return earlier today from London was premature and motivated by political pressure from some of his closest associates, Presidency and medical sources have told Saharareporters that the ailing Nigerian leader is set to return to the United Kingdom in three weeks to continue treatment for an undisclosed illness.

Saharareporters had consistently disclosed that members of Mr. Buhari’s medical team in the UK had advised against his return to Nigeria at this time, adding that some members of his political circle, afraid that their influence was about to slip, pressured the frail and still ill president to return to Nigeria in order to quell anxiety that he was too gravely ill to continue in office.
Early this morning, a presidential jet carrying Mr. Buhari landed at the Kaduna Airport in the capital of Kaduna State. The terribly emaciated and fatigued Nigerian leader was then flown in a helicopter to Abuja. 
In a short address to Nigerians, President Buhari with a shaky voice expressed gratitude to “Muslims and Christians alike who have prayed and have continued to pray for my good health.” He described the collective prayers as “a testimony that, in spite of the hardship being experienced, Nigerians support the government in its effort to tackle our country’s challenges.” He claimed that his health had significantly improved during his prolonged treatment in London.
President Buhari had been flown out of Nigeria on January 19, 2017, in what his handlers billed as a 10-day vacation to rest. However, he ended up staying in London for close to two months, during which several political leaders went on pilgrimage to London to see him. The political visits often led to claims that Mr. Buhari was “hale and hearty,” and was merely resting some more before returning to assume the presidency.
In his speech to Nigerians, Mr. Buhari stated that the best way to repay for their good wishes was “to rededicate myself to serving you, protecting your interest and keeping your trust.”
Even so, the president’s address hinted at his unresolved health crisis. “I am feeling much better now,” he said before adding, “There may, however, be need for further follow up within some weeks.”  
President only hinted of the gravity of his illness when he admitted he had never been this “sick” his entire life and then revealing that he had “blood transfusion.” 
Our sources said Mr. Buhari plans to return to the UK within the next three weeks for further therapy. Two of the sources said it took intense pressure from his associates before Mr. Buhari agreed to return to Nigeria in defiance of his doctors’ opposition. The sources disclosed that the president finally succumbed to the wishes of his inner circle that he should leave the UK late yesterday, adding that the schedule left little room for preparation. Mr. Buhari’s presidential jet took off from Stansted Airport in London shortly after 1 a.m. his plane touched ground in Kaduna at 7:41 a.m., sparking jubilation among members of his circle in Abuja.
After a short airport ceremony, during which a weary-looking Mr. Buhari greeted Kaduna State officials, the president boarded a presidential helicopter that took him to Abuja where a delegation led by the Vice President received him. He later met briefly with some governors and members of his staff to thank them.
In his remark, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said Nigerians and the Federal Executive Council were satisfied to receive the President back in the country “hale and hearty.” According to the vice president, “It is a day of joy not only for us but for the whole country, Africa and the world. Your arrival has vindicated our position that you will return safely.” 
Mr. Osinbajo also thanked President Buhari for respecting the constitution by entrusting power to him before commencing his trip to the UK, adding that he had a tough job “going around in borrowed robes.”
Our sources said that, given Mr. Buhari’s feeble health, the president was bound to maintain a highly light schedule with few, if any, public engagements before returning to the UK in a few weeks to continue his treatment. 
Shortly after arrival ceremonies, the President retired to his residence asking VP Osinbajo to continue in an acting capacity as President while he continues resting and recuperating. 
However, Presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina quickly issued a clarification on social media stating that Buhari will transmit a letter to the Senate on Monday indicating his fitness to resume work.
Our sources had always maintained that Mr. Buhari’s doctors in the UK advised him to spend as much as four months in order to undergo the full regimen of treatment for his health crises, which include a prostrate condition as well as Crohn’s disease that had wreaked havoc on his appetite, leading to consistent weight loss. 
One of our sources asserted that Mr. Buhari was due to undergo an intense phase of treatment starting from next week before his political associates persuaded him to postpone the treatment in order to return to Nigeria and shore up their waning political influence. 
A statement released by presidential spokesman Femi Adesina noted that Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State, who serves as the Chairman of Nigeria’s Governors Forum, the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, and the Chief of Defense Staff, Abayomi Gabriel Olonishakin, made remarks welcoming Mr. Buhari back to the country.

How to WIN N300,000 Cash Prize By Answering Just A Few ‘Simple Questions’ Online [See Here]

Are you an undergraduate or a tertiary aspirant seeking cash grant to kick off your academic career in 2017?
Here is a great opportunity to win cash prizes online by simply using any internet enabled device to participate in an online test which has been scheduled to hold on the 15th of April. Feel free to use your mobile phones and tablets to partake in this program.
You can obtain up to N300,000 cash as over 200 people had previously benefited from this program. The second edition which would kick off later in the year would have participants win up to N500,000.
To enroll for this ongoing edition, submit your application online before the 31st of March for review and consideration.
The reward categories for this edition are outlined below:
GRANTCUMULATIVE SCORE
N300,00070% and above
N50,000(65 – 69)%
N20,000(62 – 64)%
The Live Test (online test) will consist of 30 questions from various academic spheres and there will be a grant/award presentation event for successful participants on the 28th of April.
Before you submit your application using the link we will provide in this publication, carefully note the following things about the program:
  • Final year students and expatriates are not eligible to apply for this program.
  • In a bid to ensure viable clarification from successful applicants, you must possess at least one of the documents stated in the registration form.
  • An 8-digit AUTHENTICATION ID will be sent to all registered applicants within 24hrs of submitting an application. Please note that multiple application is ground for disqualification.
  • Applications will be screened and ONLY ELIGIBLE applicants will be required to obtain a Passcode/PIN for the Live Test with N1,000 only after passing the necessary data verifications involved.
  • You can partake in this program by using any internet enabled device such as mobile phones, PCs and tablets. The examination will be monitored remotely via your IP address.

Wednesday 15 March 2017

How to Handle Rejection like an Actor

The difference between actors and other working professionals is that they usually spend more time looking for their next job than actually working one. They get a lot more practice with rejection than your average worker, which means we may able to learn a thing or two from them.

Don't Take It Personally

No matter what business you're in, taking rejection personally is a bad road to go down. Not only will you start to hold a grudge toward the people that didn't hire you, but you'll also start to put yourself down. Nothing is more harmful than you telling yourself that you're not good enough.
If you're rejected for a job, remember that rejection isn't about you as a person. At the Backstage blog, Secret Agent Man explains that rejection can be caused by a number of things:
If a casting director doesn't give you a callback, she might be rejecting a choice you made in the room. Or maybe you're too young for the part. Or too old. It could be anything, but I'll tell you what it's not. It's not you. The casting director doesn't think you're a despicable human being who shouldn't be allowed to grace her precious set. She's just making a choice. And the same is true for guys like me. Agents pass on actors for all kinds of reasons. The quality of your soul is rarely one of them.
Interviews are just like auditions, and sometimes you're just not right for the part. When it comes to your romantic life, remember that while rejection may hurt, it's preventing you from being in a relationship with a compatibility problem. Both parties need to be interested for anything good to really happen, so if you get turned down, move on to the next audition. If you keep going out for roles, you'll eventually land one.

Change Your Perception

Even when you start to get used to rejection, it can still sting. It sucks to get told no, but if you can find a way look at your rejection differently, you'll have a much easier time. George Clooney is a household name these days, but was once a rejection-riddled actor, barely getting by. That is until he started to change his perspective.
In The Obstacle Is the Way, author Ryan Holiday talks about the simple, yet effective alteration Clooney made to his mindset:
He wanted the producers and directors to like him, but they didn't and it hurt and he blamed the system for not seeing how good he was. This perspective should sound familiar. It's the dominant viewpoint for the rest of us on job interviews, when we pitch clients, or try to connect with an attractive stranger in a coffee shop... Everything changed for Clooney when he tried a new perspective. He realized that casting is an obstacle for producers, too—they need to find somebody, and they're all hoping that the next person to walk in the room is the right somebody. Auditions were a chance to solve their problems, not his.
With a new mindset, rejection can be something very different to you. Not only will you be able to walk into an interview or up to an attractive stranger with confidence, but if it doesn't work out, you can just remind yourself that you weren't able to solve their problem. Everything is just an opportunity to solve a problem, and you can either solve it or you can't. That's all there is to it.

Prepare for Your Next Audition

Even with a new approach, rejection can still hurt a little, and that's okay. If you need to feel down for a little bit, do it. Get those feelings out instead of bottling them up, but don't dwell too long. Once you're ready, do a quick post-mortem, and, as actress Jules Bausch at The Muse explains, look at the good and the bad:
I went home, and after I made a list of everything I did correctly, I made a list of everything I didn't do correctly. I was really honest with myself (without being too harsh) about where I could have improved and specific areas that I needed to work on for the next audition. Mistakes are part of being human. They are part of who we are and are integral to our learning process. And keeping a list of those mistakes will help you learn from them and make you a better actor in the process. Chalk each rejection up to building a wealth of knowledge about how to attack the next audition.
Go over what went right and what went wrong, then let it go. It's also important to manage your expectations. Getting the job, snagging the role, or landing the date can be unlikely depending on the circumstances. If you're not qualified for a position or taking a shot in the dark with a stranger, it's best not to get your hopes up. Know the roles you're capable of playing and don't beat yourself up when you don't end up a leading lady or man.
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While you're preparing for your next shot at the limelight, use your past rejections as a motivator. Carry yourself with confidence and keep your mind on the next audition. Do the prep work and focus forward. Failure to accept the reality of rejection means a career that's dead in the water, and that can be said to some extent for any job field or other parts of life. Brush yourself off, soldier on, and walk into that next "audition" like you've never been told no before.

Champions League recap: Managers in focus as Barcelona create history, Arsenal repeat it


A football manager was seen on the field on Wednesday night, jumping, running around, celebrating the goal by getting down into a ground huddle with the players and the fans. No, it wasn’t the vibrant Chelsea boss Antonio Conte. It was Barcelona manager Luis Enrique.
Something clicked in the Spaniard- who often remains calm, composed, is not known to be too close to his players and has never cared about politics that comes with being associated with the Catalans. Sergi Roberto had just scored a 95th minute winner against PSG at Nou Camp, ensuring the club’s survival in European Champions League by winning the game 6-1 (6-5 on aggregate). It was in this moment, Enrique let go of all his emotions in one go, and let himself enjoy this unforgettable record. “I was brought to my knees,” he said after the match.
After weeks of ups-and-downs, it was about time Enrique etched another record to his name for the club. The manager was criticised after Barcelona went down 4-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16 fixture against PSG at Parc des Princes. In spite of club booking a final against Deportivo Alaves in Copa del Rey, the side was not finding the right footing in La Liga. The tough La Liga fixture against Leganes, in which Barca won from a last minute penalty by Lionel Messi, was the final straw for the manager who won the treble in his first year in-charge at the club. Two games later, Barcelona reached top of the table in the competition, after which Enrique announced he will be departing from the club. “I need to rest,” he said.
Enrique, who is regarded as a “legend” by club president Josep Maria Bartomeu, realised what his predecessor Pep Guardiola said long time back – “four years is as long a manager can be at Barcelona”. Just like Guardiola, the current Manchester City manager, who took a year-long sabbatical after stepping down as Barcelona manager in 2012, the physical and mental toll that comes along with the job, played down heavily on Enrique and the manager perhaps decided he rather retire as a “hero” than stay at the club and become a “villain”.
The historic comeback victory at the Nou Camp against PSG was perhaps the final battle in Enrique’s path. He knew his legacy will be defined if his club’s Champions League dreams could remain alive. In the first 50 minutes, the Blaugrana put three goals in the back of the net, making fans believe that they can achieve the impossible. 12 minutes later, Barca’s hopes were hurt when Edinson Cavani scored with a half volley, taking the aggregate to 5-3, with an added advantage of an away goal. It meant Barcelona needed three clear goals to win or else they will bid early farewell to European Championship in Enrique’s final year at the club.
The real drama unfolded in the final seven minutes when two quick goals in succession from Neymar, one coming from the penalty, rejuvenated the fans at the stadium. PSG defenders failed to contain the situation in the dying minutes of the game. A 95th minute free kick proved to be the kill shot for PSG, as Roberto scored from a controlled finish to register his first goal in months and gave Barcelona another lifeline in the tournament. Since the Champions League format started in 1992-1993, it was the biggest comeback victory in history by any club. “I don’t think anyone stopped believing. After seeing them sit back despite the goal, the team were incredible,” Enrique said.
The tables meanwhile turned on PSG boss Unai Emery, who now is facing questions regarding his future at the club. Emery admitted after the game that they made some tactical errors in the game against Barcelona. Benching the hero of the first leg Angel Di Maria was perhaps the biggest mistake by the Spaniard. But, in spite of his admission, Emery was unable to prevent himself from being trolled on the internet and from fans asking for his resignation. In one night, Emery saw himself being turned into a “villain”, and some even compared him to the struggling Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger.
“Wenger Out”, demands Arsenal fans at Emirates
Even before the second leg between Arsenal and Bayern Munich got underway, the fans at the stadium started chanting “Wenger out” and there were plenty of placards outside calling for the Frenchman to move on. In 10 years, without a single trophy other than FA Cup, Wenger has alienated majority of his fan base at the stadium, and many wonder why the French manager is continuing to bear the humiliation from fans and not announce his departure.
The Champions League fixture proved to be another nail in Wenger’s coffin (or final?), as Bayern repeated history by bidding farewell to familiar English rivals. The Gunners drew the German club for the third time in last four years, and much like previous years, Bayern found themselves on the winning side of things. The Carlo Ancelotti side beat Wenger’s boys by 5-1 yet again, as they recorded an aggregate of 10-2, the second biggest aggregate defeat in UCL history (only after Bayern Munich 12-1 Sporting CP in 2009).
Wenger saw himself becoming the “villain” as angry fans went into a protest fixture across the streets of London right after the humiliating defeat. After 20 years, perhaps the 67-year old manager has extended his stay at the club. Unlike his Manchester United counterpart, Alex Ferguson, who won the Premiere League trophy in his final year at the club, and left as a “hero”, Wenger’s ouster from the club is becoming a heated affair, with the manager refusing to bow down, even after string of bad results. He was right when he said his future at the club seems not too bright.

La Liga Recap: Air Ramos takes Real Madrid to top; Barcelona brought back to earth

“This is right about the time the Ultras start chanting for Sergio Ramos on a goal – and there it is! Right on cue!” These were the words spoken by Match Day Show’s English commentator in the 81st minute during Real Madrid’s fixture against Real Betis at Santiago Bernabeu. It was a similar situation for the Zinedine Zidane side which they have faced quite so often this season. The team trailing- the fans cheering- and all they need is one goal to save the game. And just like before, it was Captain Sergio Ramos to the rescue.
For the seventh time this season, Madrid’s “superhero” headed the ball back into the net from a Toni Kroos’ corner – it was his 10th goal of the season- to save his side from a difficult position. Barcelona lost three point against 17th placed Deportivo Alaves, on the back of a historic comeback against PSG in the Champions League. The shocking 2-1 loss for Luis Enrique’s side, against lowly opponents, had given the perfect opportunity to Los Blancos to regain the top position in the table.
But Real’s goalkeeper Keylor Navas’, who has been leaking goals from past few games, and is clearly low on confidence, ruined the chance for Zidane’s side to ease past Betis. The fumble at the goalpost saw the Chilean scoring an own goal in the 24th minute and giving the away side an early lead. “That is part of the game, there can be mistakes, like with everyone. And in the end he saved us the three points,” Zidane defended Navas’ performance yet again in the post match conference, but it clearly looks Real need to invest in a goalkeeper in the summer window transfer. It took a Cristiano Ronaldo header in the 41st minute to bring the game to equal terms before half time.
In the second half, the home side started strong, with James Rodrigues, Ronaldo, Alvaro Morata and Lucas Vazquez all finding chances to score a goal, though all failing in their attempts. But a corner in the last 10 minutes proved to be a lifeline when Ramos, who has been on a roll this season in terms of goals, found pocket of space in between Betis’ back four and headed it past former Real Betis keeper Antonio Adan, to win and take the team back top with 62 points. “It annoys many people [that we are top]. But that is normal. We are Madrid and can annoy many people,” Zidane said after the game.
The manager needs to figure out if there is a need to further increase Ramos’ wages since he has been serving as an extra attacker for the side. It was the third time this season, when the central defender had saved his side with a late header. He did so against Barcelona in December and then repeated it with an injury time header in the very next game against Deportivo La Coruna. Just three years ago, it was Ramos’ extra time header against Atletico Madrid that saved the European Championship final for Los Blancos. The defender has become an added asset for Madrid in the front, and if Real has to win the League title, Ramos could prove to be a key player.

What goes wrong with referees in Spain?
Just few days after the German referee Deniz Aytekin courted controversy for awarding two penalties to Barcelona in the Champions League, spoiling the celebrations of the massive comeback victory for Luis Enrique’s men, the referees again made huge blunders in Real’s fixture. In 22nd minute, Betis’ midfielder Drako Brasanac found himself going one-on-one against Navas just few yards away from the goal. But the two-time Copa America winning goalkeeper upended the run by a meaty tackle on Brasanac’s legs. For what seemed like a clear red-card, the referee signaled no foul and waved on to continue the game.
If that was not all, Ronaldo’s goal from a tremendous chip in the 73rd minute was disallowed by linesman for offside. The replay clearly showed the Portuguese forward behind the defence line before making the run.
Instances of false calls by referees have become a common sight in Spain, especially in big matches. While some football fans troll Barcelona to be in league with Spanish referees, others say referees in Spain are “blind”. Barcelona after losing their match by 2-1 against Deportivo La Coruna were critcised with many saying that the Catalans cannot win without referees’ support.
Instances like these spoil the sport of football, especially when they occur in big matches. Football organisations such as UEFA, FIFA and others need to address the issue and ensure only worthy and unbiased contenders are employed for officiating in big matches.

Manchester United charged with failing to control their players by FA

Manchester United has been charged by the English Football Association after its players harangued referee Michael Oliver following the sending-off of Ander Herrera during the team’s FA Cup loss to Chelsea.
United’s players were unhappy when Herrera received a second yellow card in the 35th minute for fouling Chelsea winger Eden Hazard. The score was 0-0 at that stage and United went on to lose 1-0 in the quarterfinal match at Stamford Bridge on Monday.
The FA said Tuesday that United has been charged with “failing to control their players.”
United has until Friday to respond to the charge.