Italy: The 2012-13 Serie A season will commence on August 25 and end on May 19, the Lega Serie A have confirmed. The calendar has three midweek Serie A rounds on September 26, October 31, and May 8. The Coppa Italia will get underway on August 5 and the final will be played on May 26, 2013. The Italian Supercup, which will feature newly-crowned Italy champions Juventus against Cup holders Napoli, will be played on August 19.

Ivanovic: Branislav Ivanovic has no intention of leaving Chelsea this summer, according to the player’s agent. “Ivanovic to Napoli? It’s only a rumour because my client has renewed his contract with Chelsea at a figure that would not meet the financial fair play of Napoli,” Vlado Boroza said.

S. Africa: South Africa fired coach Pitso Mosimane yesterday after hopes of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup suffered a severe setback last weekend when held 1-1 at home by Ethiopia. National football association CEO Robin Petersen travelled from Johannesburg to the squad camp in Rustenburg following an emergency executive committee meeting and the coach was axed just after midnight.

Vieira: Portuguese midfielder Hugo Vieira has signed for first division Benfica from Gil Vicente. “Hugo Vieira has signed a contract until June 20, 2016,” Benfica said. The club have already signed Dutch forward Ola John from FC Twente.

Mathijsen: Holland received a boost ahead of their opening Euro 2012 match with Denmark when key defender Joris Mathijsen said he would be fit for game. The 32-year-old veteran was able to train for part of the squad’s first training session after being sidelined with a thigh injury.

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