By RYAN TOLMICH
Both of Tuesday afternoon’s high-profile match-ups had goals, but each ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
In FA Cup action, Everton snatched a dramatic late draw against West Ham thanks to a finish from Romelu Lukaku, while Inter Milan nabbed a point against league-leaders Juventus in Lukas Podolski’s debut Serie A match.
West Ham opened the scoring at Goodison Park through James Collins, who headed in a Morgan Amalfitano cross in the 53rd minute. The Hammers protected that tally and were on the verge of victory, but Lukaku volleyed a shot home from close range in the 91st minute to earn Everton a replay next week.
In Italy, Juventus controlled a majority of the contest against Inter after Carlos Tevez scored a quick opener in the fifth minute. Inter responded admirably, though, as Mauro Icardi’s equalizer proved to be enough to earn a draw despite a late Mateo Kovacic red card.
Here are some more of Tuesday evening’s news and notes:
REAL MADRID CLOSE TO LANDING PHENOM ODEGAARD
The rich could be getting richer, as Real Madrid are nearing a move for one of the world’s most sought-after prospects.
Real Madrid are reportedly on the verge of signing Norwegian phenom Martin Odegaard, who has previously drawn the interest of Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City.
The 16-year-old Norwegian international has arrived in Madrid and could reportedly sign with the Spanish club as early as Wednesday morning.
Odegaard, who made his senior international debut at just 15, is the youngest player to ever participate in a European qualifier.
SONG RETIRES FROM CAMEROON NATIONAL TEAM
Alex Song is calling it quits on his international career.
The Cameroonian midfielder announced his retirement from national team duty Tuesday after being left off the initial squad for the upcoming African Cup of Nations.
“Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from the Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations, I have taken the decision to retire from international football,” Song said. “It is true that there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for this tournament but I feel after a lot of careful thought and numerous discussions with my family this is the right decision.
“My love for my country will never change but I want to take time to focus purely on domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West Ham United. I wish Cameroon all the best and the team will always be in my heart.”
Song made 47 appearances for Cameroon since his debut in 2005 and represented the country at two African Cup of Nations and two World Cups.
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What did you make of Tuesday’s action? What do you expect from Odegaard’s future? Have any favorite Song moments for Cameroon?
Share your thoughts below.