Happy Wednesday folks! It’s an action packed Wednesday. First, you got UEFA Champions League this afternoon, where Manchester City hosts FC Basel with a 4-0 aggregate lead and Tottenham hosts Juventus with that matchup level at 2-2. Next, at 7:00pm, the United States Women’s National Team will look to hoist the SheBelieves Cup trophy as they take on England at Orlando City Stadium. After you’re done rooting for the USWNT, there’s CONCACAF Champions League to consume, with Toronto FC hosting Tigres and Seattle Sounders hosting Chivas de Guadalajara.
Alright, to the news:
Cristiano Ronaldo ensures Real Madrid ease past PSG into last eight | The Guardian
Cristiano Ronaldo scores in his 9th consecutive Champions League match, which ties a record shared by Ruud Van Nistelrooy, as Real Madrid coasts past Paris St-Germain into the quarterfinals. PSG had pumped tons of money into winning the trophy, but in the end, they just couldn’t buy the Champions League title.
North American 2026 World Cup bid makes leadership changes | ESPNFC
Sunil Gulati is out as chairman of the 2026 World Cup bid between the United States, Mexico and Canada, after a shakeup of the leadership committee. What this means for the bid’s chances against Morocco, we will see.
Jurgen Klopp feels thrill of Liverpool’s return among Europe’s giants | The Guardian
Liverpool drew FC Porto, but advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals on a 5-0 aggregate. Jurgen Klopp is ready to dance with the big boys.
D.C. United to sign USL all-time leading goalscorer Dane Kelly | Black & Red United
D.C. United heads to the USL ranks and signs Dane Kelly of Reno 1868, who is the all-time USL leading scorer. He hopefully will provide depth up front for a Black-and-Red team looking to score a lot of goals this season. It’s also now reported that Joseph Mora will also sign, likely moving into the starting left back position.
David Beckham’s Miami team now eyes golf course site for new stadium | Pro Soccer USA
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: I will believe #MLS2Miami is happening when I’m planning a night before party at Mango’s on South Beach. They now want to have the stadium at a golf course next to Miami International Airport that I personally know is likely a nonstarter given that it was rejected a couple years ago, and will create massive traffic. But, it is close to Versailles, so there’s that.
Shaq Moore hopeful for a USMNT call up | Stars & Stripes FC
Shaq Moore has played some significant time at Levante this season, and even though he hasn’t featured in the lineup in a few matches, he’s looking to get called up to the USMNT. I think they should give him a chance, whether it’s for the upcoming friendly March 27th against Paraguay or in June when the team travels to Europe to play Ireland and France.
Davide Astori: Fiorentina and Cagliari retire defender’s number 13 shirt | BBC
Fiorentina and Cagliari have both retired the number 13 worn by Davide Astori, who passed away suddenly Sunday morning. Touching tribute to a player that was loved by so many teammates and fans.
Carlos Valderrama says he’ll shave off his famous hair on one big condition | FourFourTwo
Carlos Valderrama will shave his afro if Colombia wins the World Cup. I know Colombia is a very good team, but I think Valderrama’s afro is safe.
Jonathan Klinsmann returned to roots by opting to join Hertha Berlin | ESPNFC
Jonathan Klinsmann decided to begin his pro career at Hertha Berlin because he wanted to integrate himself in Germany, the country where he was born. He states he wanted to get back to his roots and learn German. Very admirable, and so far it seems to be paying off.
Robbie Keane picks himself on managerial debut - and scores only goal for ATK | FourFourTwo
You probably didn’t know this, but Robbie Keane is playing in India, for a team called ATK in Kolkata. When their manager was fired, they placed him as caretaker player-manager. Well, he put himself in the starting XI and scored the only goal against NorthEast United, who is coached by former Chelsea manager Avram Grant.
Last, but not least, Black & Red United is throwing a party! A watch party, to be exact. Come check it out Sunday afternoon at Dock FC in Ivy City as we watch the Black-and-Red take on Atlanta United. Drink specials, swag giveaways, and good people. Head there if you’re not joining me in the ATL!
Alright, that’s what we got for now. Hit the comments and let everyone know any other stories that hit your radar!