Latest news with #BallersLeague
The Star
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Giggs gets a kick out of small-sided games, but insists 11-a-side still the foundation
On the ball: Ryan Giggs fielding questions from reporters during the event. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star PETALING JAYA: Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs is embracing the rise of small-sided football formats like the Ballers League, but insists that traditional 11-a-side football remains the sport's foundation and will never be replaced. Speaking before the start of the Liga 7x7 All-Stars tournament at the Cheras Football Stadium yesterday, Giggs acknowledged the growing popularity of five-a-side and seven-a-side competitions that mix former pros, influencers and celebrities – but was clear about the balance the sport needs to strike. 'Yeah, I think there's room for both,' said Giggs. 'Obviously, 11-a-side will always be there. It's your bread and butter – every league and every international competition in the world is built on it. But I think smaller formats of the game are exciting too. Quicker matches, rolling subs, more goals – it's a great watch.' The Welshman, now 52, admits that small-sided formats have particular appeal for older players like himself. 'Yeah, I'm very excited. We're looking forward to it and I'm sure the fans are too. Obviously, for us older players, the smaller the pitch, the better!' he joked. Giggs compared the rise of compact football formats to trends seen in other sports. 'We're in an age now where people want things quickly. If you look at cricket with T20 and The Hundred, or tennis with shorter scoring formats, sports are adapting to faster lifestyles. Football's no different – smaller-sided games are faster, have more goals, and they keep fans engaged.' Giggs, joined by fellow former stars John Terry and Dimitar Berbatov during the tournament, also stressed how important fan interaction is during these events, especially in regions where watching European football comes with time zone challenges. 'Myself, John, and Dimitar, love coming abroad and meeting the fans. We did it as players on pre-season tours or international duty, and this is no different. 'It's also a thank you to all the fans. We know it's not easy in this part of the world – you're watching games at 2am, 3am. So to be here, sign autographs, take pictures, and play a bit is just our way of saying thanks.' Turning his attention to his beloved Manchester United, Giggs believes the Red Devils must improve in the attacking department to return to the top. 'United are traditionally an attacking team and I think that's where we've fallen short in recent years. 'We've relied heavily on Bruno Fernandes for goals. When we've been successful in the past, goals have come from everywhere in the team.' He sees recent signing Bryan Mbeumo – who arrives with Premier League pedigree – as a step in the right direction. 'Hopefully, Mbeumo adds more goals. He's got Premier League experience, so he should hit the ground running. Together with (Matheus) Cunha, it's exciting. But I still think we need four or five more signings to compete.'
The Star
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Chelsea legend Terry backs small-side football
the Liga 7X7 Zurich matches. John Terry. 19 JULY 2025 —CHAN TAK KONG/The Star PETALING JAYA: Chelsea legend John Terry has thrown his support behind the rising wave of five-a-side and seven-a-side football tournaments that blend social media influencers, streamers, and former professionals, calling it a refreshing evolution in the global football landscape. Speaking before the start of the Liga 7x7 All-Stars tournament at the Cheras Football Stadium yesterday, Terry praised the growing trend that has gripped fans and players alike around the world. "First of all, it's a great concept. We're doing something very similar back home, called the Ballers League,' said the former England international. "Speaking to Adam (founder of the league Adam Azman) and the guys here organising it, the format works. Hopefully, this is the start of something we can come back to annually and keep building on. It's a great idea." With small pitches and modified rules, the format caters not just to up-and-coming talent but also to former players like Terry, who still relish the competitive edge without the physical toll of the 11-a-side game. "The pitch is quite small, which is nice for us older players,' he joked. "So yeah, I'm looking forward to it." Beyond the appeal to retired professionals, Terry was particularly enthusiastic about how the inclusion of digital creators has transformed how fans engage with the sport. "This format and this style of football are very exciting. The game's changed over the last 10 years - it's slower than when we played - but the eyes we can get on it now with streamers, YouTubers, and social media influencers is massive. "A mix of ex-footballers and influencers works. The events are getting big followings and that helps to grow the game differently." Turning his attention to his beloved Chelsea, Terry expressed optimism about the club's direction heading into the 2025-2026 season, especially after the team's triumph at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. "Well, I think it's exciting. The club have a lot of players at the moment and I'm sure there's going to be some movement in the market still,' he noted. "But listen, it's good to go and win the Club World Cup over in America. That bodes well for the season." Terry, who captained Chelsea through one of their most successful eras, emphasised the importance of regrouping ahead of the Premier League restart. "Hopefully the players can get some rest now and come back ready to go again. As a Chelsea ex-player and a Chelsea fan, it's an exciting time to be a Chelsea supporter."
Scottish Sun
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Baller League Finals format and rules explained
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Ballers League reaches its climax as we approach the final at the O2 Arena in London on June 12, 2025. The top four teams from the season will face off to determine the winner — here's everything you need to know about the Baller League finals. 3 Deportrio, managed by Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Micah Richards, topped the standings during the regular season Credit: Getty 3 Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann's MVP United will also feature in the final four Credit: Getty What is Baller League? Baller League is a dynamic, influencer-led six-a-side indoor football competition that originated in Germany in 2024. It has rapidly expanded to the UK — and will soon have a franchise in the US. The league was created by entrepreneur Felix Starck, along with the support of professional footballers Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski. The aim was to blend traditional football with entertainment and appeal to a younger, more digital-savvy audience. read more on baller league BALL OR NOTHING Former England star pulled apart from Baller League rival Twelve teams play in six-a-side matches, with the top four advancing to the final play-off in June to be crowned the champion. Starck said: "Baller League is a brand new way to consume football. "We're redefining how the game is played by bringing an exhilarating and authentic approach to football, and one that will appeal to current fans along with future generations. "Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football. "We're about creating a version of the game that's impossible to ignore — thrilling, bold and packed with excitement." How does the Final Four work? The four teams with the most points after 11 matches qualify for the Baller League Final Four. Ruben Dias and Maya Jama's romantic debut at Baller League match There will be two semi-finals to determine the final, with the team who placed first in the league stage playing fourth, while second plays third. In the event two teams are tied after 11 matches, the order will be first decided by goal difference, then goals scored, followed by the result between the two sides in question. If, after these three stipulations, the two sides are still level, a shootout will determine who progresses. In the event of a draw in the Final Four after the regular 30 minutes, a penalty shootout is held in which each team initially provides three takers. Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football Baller League CEO Felix Starck If the shootout ends level, it will become sudden death until a winner is established. Who is involved in Baller League? YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI is the president of the UK version. Among the football legends and celebrities managing teams this season, John Terry is in charge of 26ers, while Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Micah Richards jointly manage Deportrio. Clint 419 is the manager of FC Rules the World, and Miniminter (Simon Minter from the Sidemen) leads M7 FC. MVPs United is managed by Alisha Lehmann and Maya Jama, and the trio of Arsenal Invincibles — Jens Lehmann, Robert Pirès and Freddie Ljungberg — manage N5 FC. Brit Award-winning artist Dave (Santan Dave) is at the helm of Santan FC, with YouTuber Sharky managing SDS FC. Luís Figo leads Trebol FC, and Tobi Brown (TBJZL from the Sidemen) manages VZN FC. 3 Wembley Rangers is managed by Ian Wright and Chloe Kelly, while Yanited is under the guidance of YouTuber Angry Ginge Who has qualified for the Baller League Final Four? Just four teams remain from the 12 that started on Matchday 1 back in March. Deportrio topped the standings on goal difference after 11 rounds of action-packed fixtures. MVP United narrowly missed out on top spot by one goal, but they have secured their place in the final four. Yanited and SDS FC complete the sides competing for Baller League glory on the night of Thursday, June 12, 2025 — with fans set to be treated to even more thrilling action at the O2 Arena. Organisers have confirmed a Legends vs Creators match has been booked in with some blockbuster names taking part. Baller League Final Four fixtures As they finished top of the standings, Deportrio will face the lowest-ranked side in the Final Four, which is SDS FC. The team that is victorious will face the winner of MVPs United vs Yanited in the grand finale.
The Irish Sun
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Baller League Finals format and rules explained
Ballers League reaches its climax as we approach the final at the O2 Arena in London on June 12, 2025. The top four teams from the season will face off to determine the winner — here's everything you need to know about the Baller League finals. Advertisement 3 Deportrio, managed by Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker and Micah Richards, topped the standings during the regular season Credit: Getty 3 Maya Jama and Alisha Lehmann's MVP United will also feature in the final four Credit: Getty What is Baller League? Baller League is a dynamic, influencer-led six-a-side indoor football competition that originated in Germany in 2024. It has rapidly expanded to the UK — and will soon have a franchise in the US. The league was created by entrepreneur Felix Starck, along with the support of professional footballers The aim was to Advertisement read more on baller league Twelve teams play in six-a-side matches, with the top four advancing to the final play-off in June to be crowned the champion. Starck said: "Baller League is a brand new way to consume football. "We're redefining how the game is played by bringing an exhilarating and authentic approach to football, and one that will appeal to current fans along with future generations. "Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football. Advertisement Most read in Football "We're about creating a version of the game that's impossible to ignore — thrilling, bold and packed with excitement." How does the Final Four work? The four teams with the most points after 11 matches qualify for the Ruben Dias and Maya Jama's romantic debut at Baller League match There will be two semi-finals to determine the final, with the team who placed first in the league stage playing fourth, while second plays third. In the event two teams are tied after 11 matches, the order will be first decided by goal difference, then goals scored, followed by the result between the two sides in question. Advertisement If, after these three stipulations, the two sides are still level, a shootout will determine who progresses. In the event of a draw in the Final Four after the regular 30 minutes, a penalty shootout is held in which each team initially provides three takers. Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football Baller League CEO Felix Starck If the shootout ends level, it will become sudden death until a winner is established. Who is involved in Baller League? i s the president of the UK version . Advertisement Among the football legends and celebrities managing teams this season, MVPs United is managed by Brit Award-winning artist Dave (Santan Dave) is at the helm of Santan FC, with YouTuber Sharky managing SDS FC. Advertisement 3 Wembley Rangers is managed by Who has qualified for the Baller League Final Four? Just four teams remain from the 12 that started on Matchday 1 back in March. Advertisement Deportrio topped the standings on goal difference after 11 rounds of action-packed fixtures. MVP United narrowly missed out on top spot by one goal, but they have secured their place in the final four. Yanited and SDS FC complete the sides competing for Baller League glory on the night of Thursday, June 12, 2025 — with fans set to be treated to even more thrilling action at the O2 Arena. Organisers have confirmed a Legends vs Creators match has been booked in with some blockbuster names taking part. Advertisement Baller League Final Four fixtures As they finished top of the standings, Deportrio will face the lowest-ranked side in the Final Four, which is SDS FC. The team that is victorious will face the winner of MVPs United vs Yanited in the grand finale. Semi-final 1: Deportrio vs SDS FC Semi-final 2: MVPs United vs Yanited Final: SF1 winner vs SF2 winner
Scottish Sun
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Famous TV presenter goes unnoticed as she leaves Wembley after Man City's FA Cup loss – would you have spotted her?
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MAYA Jama went completely unnoticed as she slipped out of Wembley Stadium following Manchester City's shock FA Cup defeat yesterday. TV presenter Maya, 29, showed off her toned midriff in a black crop top and matching relaxed-fit jeans as she supported her boyfriend, Portugal star Rúben Dias, 28. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 7 Maya Jama went completely unnoticed as she slipped out of Wembley Stadium yesterday Credit: Curley 7 She showed off her toned midriff in a black crop top and matching relaxed-fit jeans Credit: James Curley But after City's surprise 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace, Maya faced a double blow - waiting more than 30 minutes to get to the station, surrounded by thousands of fans. The Love Island host kept a low profile as she left the stadium alongside a small group of friends. It marked a rare public show of support for the Manchester City defender, with Maya usually keeping her matchday appearances under the radar. Still, she received little attention from the crowd, who were too busy celebrating Palace's historic win to notice her. Maya and Rúben went public with their relationship last month after first meeting in November. The City defender was previously in a relationship with Love Island's Arabella Chi and Portuguese singer April Ivy before that. The centre-back kept his relationship with Maya a secret for months after initially meeting at the European Music Awards last year. But they have since gone public, recently looking loved up during a romantic lunch date in London. The couple were spotted at the The Summerhouse, which is a fancy seafood restaurant in London. It sits alongside the Grand Union Canal in Little Venice and is the perfect spot for an al fresco lunch. The £4.52 beauty buy Maya Jama swears by for a fresh-faced summer look, and you can nab it on TikTok Shop In April, they were seen out for the first time at a Ballers League game - headed up by KSI - in which Maya manages a team. Earlier in the month, Maya watched Rúben play at Wembley as City beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in their FA cup semi-final. During the international break in March, Maya flew to Lisbon when Rúben played for Portgual. The former Radio 1 DJ was pictured in the stands at the José Alvalade Stadium when Portugal's beat Denmark 5-2. She was seen with a pal and glasses of wine in a VIP hospitality box - reserved usually for friends and family of players. Maya also posted a picture of the two celebrating together at their romantic fireside retreat at 3.30am the following morning. The snap is said to have been taken at the Rúben's home in the Cascais region of Portugal - with a swimming pool spotted in the picture. Maya was gifted a bouquet of roses on her return to the UK from Cape Town in February following the conclusion of the 2025 Love Island All Star season. The pair were then spotted wearing matching £5,000 Cartier 'LOVE' bracelets. Maya wore the pricey gift in the Instagram post before Rúben was spotted wearing the same item as he arrived for training in February. 7 The Love Island host kept a low profile as she left the stadium Credit: James Curley 7 She was joined by a small group of friends Credit: James Curley 7 She received little attention from the crowd Credit: Curley 7 They were too busy celebrating Palace's historic win to notice her Credit: Curley
