Levski Win: Levski Sofia won the Bulgarian Cup for the 25th time as second-half goals by Daniel Borimirov and Valeri Domovchiiski gave them a 2-1 win over league champions and arch-rivals CSKA Sofia in a dramatic final yesterday. Three players were sent off - two from CSKA and one from Levski - in an action-packed second period. The defeat means CSKA failed to repeat the success of their 1997 double-winning season.
Olympiakos: Olympiakos Piraeus completed the double when they clinched the Greek championship with a 1-0 win over Iraklis yesterday. They won the Greek Cup at the weekend. It is their eighth title in nine years and the 33rd in their history. Last year's champions Panathinaikos finished second and will join Olympiakos in the Champions League.
Figo: Real Madrid winger Luis Figo is still waiting for an explanation from coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo for his relegation to the substitutes' bench for the latter part of the season. "I don't understand his change in attitude and this is what hurts most," Figo said. "I always train to the best of my abilities, but obviously there have been difficult moments when you don't understand things because there haven't been explanations."
Ferdinand: Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand was banned from driving for 28 days yesterday after he was caught overtaking a police car at 106 miles per hour. The 26-year-old footballer, who has been banned from driving before over drink-driving and speeding offences, was also fined £1,500.
Ronaldinho: Barcelona forward Ronaldinho says it would be "a dream" if Arsenal striker Thierry Henry joined the Spanish champions during the close season. "When I take a look at all the players in the world, I say to myself that he is the very image of Barcelona," the Brazilian said. "His pace and technique make him one of the best players in the world. It would be a dream to have him with us and to play with him."
China Venture: Real Madrid are negotiating with the CITIC Group, China's largest financial conglomerate, to develop the club's brand but have denied buying into a Chinese club. The La Liga club, who have made pre-season tours to the Far East the last two years and are planning to do so again this year, is keen to boost its profile in the lucrative Asian market.