India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match. Ashwin got the big wickets of Steve Smith, Cameron Green and Travis Head to pile misery on the hosts after India posted 244 runs on the board. However, it was Virat Kohli who stole the show with a stunning catch to give Ashwin the wicket of debutant Green.

The incident happened in the 41st over of the Aussie innings when Ashwin bowled a length delivery to Green to which the Aussie youngster wanted to execute a pull shot over the mid-wicket fielder.

However, Green miscued his stroke as the ball travelled to the right side of the mid-wicket fielder – Kohli. The Indian skipper, reacting quickly to the stroke, dived to pull off a stunning catch as Green’s innings was cut short after scoring 11 runs off 24 balls.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scg-test-on-despite-sydney-covid-19-outbreak-situation-being-monitored-by-cricket-australia-350676" hreflang="en">SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia</a>

Kohli dived full stretch to grab the catch with both his hands and upon completing the screamer, the Indian skipper raised his arms as his teammates ran towards him in joy.&nbsp;

<h2>WATCH VIDEO: Virat Kohli's stunning catch to dismiss Cameron Green</h2>

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Cameron Green's debut innings was stopped short by an absolute classic from Virat Kohli - and the Indian captain enjoyed it a lot! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OhWhatAFeeling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OhWhatAFeeling</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Toyota_Aus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@toyota_Aus</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/krXXaZI1at">pic.twitter.com/krXXaZI1at</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1339852557858947072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Green’s dismissal put Australia in trouble as they were down to 79-5. However, since then captain Tim Paine and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a good partnership to take them to 111 runs. Umesh Yadav struck the hammer blow by dismissing Labuschagne for 47.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adelaide-test-virat-kohli-misses-28th-test-century-as-india-end-day-1-at-2336-350490" hreflang="en">Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli misses 28th Test century as India end Day 1 at 233/6</a>

Meanwhile, India would be looking to get a good lead going into the second innings and will look to wrap up the Australian lower-order as quickly as possible. Notably, Australia haven’t lost a single day-night Test match and India would be looking to break the deadlock in Adelaide. 
&nbsp;

India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match.

India found themselves on top of Australia in the first innings of the day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval after Ravichandran Ashwin destroyed the Aussie top-order on Day 2 of the match. Ashwin got the big wickets of Steve Smith, Cameron Green and Travis Head to pile misery on the hosts after India posted 244 runs on the board. However, it was Virat Kohli who stole the show with a stunning catch to give Ashwin the wicket of debutant Green. The incident happened in the 41st over of the Aussie innings when Ashwin bowled a length delivery to Green to which the Aussie youngster wanted to execute a pull shot over the mid-wicket fielder. However, Green miscued his stroke as the ball travelled to the right side of the mid-wicket fielder – Kohli. The Indian skipper, reacting quickly to the stroke, dived to pull off a stunning catch as Green’s innings was cut short after scoring 11 runs off 24 balls. ALSO READ: SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia Kohli dived full stretch to grab the catch with both his hands and upon completing the screamer, the Indian skipper raised his arms as his teammates ran towards him in joy. WATCH VIDEO: Virat Kohli's stunning catch to dismiss Cameron Green Cameron Green's debut innings was stopped short by an absolute classic from Virat Kohli - and the Indian captain enjoyed it a lot! #OhWhatAFeeling@toyota_Aus | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/krXXaZI1at — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 18, 2020 × Green’s dismissal put Australia in trouble as they were down to 79-5. However, since then captain Tim Paine and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a good partnership to take them to 111 runs. Umesh Yadav struck the hammer blow by dismissing Labuschagne for 47. ALSO READ: Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli misses 28th Test century as India end Day 1 at 233/6 Meanwhile, India would be looking to get a good lead going into the second innings and will look to wrap up the Australian lower-order as quickly as possible. Notably, Australia haven’t lost a single day-night Test match and India would be looking to break the deadlock in Adelaide.

Watch: Virat Kohli takes screamer to help Ravichandran Ashwin dismiss Cameron Green

FIFA The Best football awards for the year 2020 were announced on Thursday with Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski outshining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to bag the coveted award. Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp was named the coach of the year in men’s category pipping Bayern Munich’s Hansi Flick in the race.&nbsp;

Lewandowski was the favourite to win the player of the year award after a sensational season in front of the goal for the Bavarians, in a season where the German giants won five trophies. However, there was a major surprise as Klopp won the coach of the year ahead of Flick, who guided Bayern to five trophies including an unbeaten season in the UEFA Champions League.

In the women’s category, Manchester city’s Lucy Bronze was named the player of the year after winning the Champions League with French side Olympique Lyon for the third season on the trot. Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman was named the best coach in women’s category.

The ceremony was held virtually at FIFA headquarters in Zurich.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/robert-lewandowski-the-body-who-put-messi-and-ronaldo-in-shade-350664" hreflang="en">Robert Lewandowski, 'The Body' who put Messi and Ronaldo in shade</a>

<h2>The Best FIFA Awards 2020 - Complete list of winners:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>The Best FIFA Women's Player: Lucy Bronze (England/Olympique Lyonnais/Manchester City)</li>
	<li>The Best FIFA Men's Coach: Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool)</li>
	<li>The Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper: Sarah Bouhaddi (France/Olympique Lyonnais)</li>
	<li>The Best FIFA Men's Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (Germany/Bayern Munich)</li>
	<li>The Best FIFA Men's Player: Robert Lewandowski (Poland/Bayern Munich)</li>
	<li>The Best FIFA Women's Coach: Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands)</li>
	<li>FIFA Fair Play Award: Mattia Agnese (Italy)</li>
	<li>FIFA Puskas Award: Son Heung-min (South Korea/Tottenham)</li>
	<li>FIFA Fan Award: Marivaldo Francisco da Silva (Brazil)</li>
	<li>FIFA FIFPRO Women's World11: Christiane Endler; Lucy Bronze; Wendie Renard; Millie Bright; Delphine Cascarino; Barbara Bonansea; Veronica Boquete; Megan Rapinoe; Pernille Harder; Vivianne Miedema; Tobin Heath</li>
	<li>FIFA FIFPRO Men's World11: Alisson Becker; Trent Alexander-Arnold; Sergio Ramos; Virgil van Dijk; Alphonso Davies; Kevin de Bruyne; Thiago Alcantara; Joshua Kimmich; Lionel Messi; Robert Lewandowski; Cristiano Ronaldo 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

FIFA The Best football awards for the year 2020 were announced on Thursday with Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski outshining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to bag the coveted award.

FIFA The Best football awards for the year 2020 were announced on Thursday with Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski outshining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to bag the coveted award. Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp was named the coach of the year in men’s category pipping Bayern Munich’s Hansi Flick in the race. Lewandowski was the favourite to win the player of the year award after a sensational season in front of the goal for the Bavarians, in a season where the German giants won five trophies. However, there was a major surprise as Klopp won the coach of the year ahead of Flick, who guided Bayern to five trophies including an unbeaten season in the UEFA Champions League. In the women’s category, Manchester city’s Lucy Bronze was named the player of the year after winning the Champions League with French side Olympique Lyon for the third season on the trot. Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman was named the best coach in women’s category. The ceremony was held virtually at FIFA headquarters in Zurich. ALSO READ: Robert Lewandowski, 'The Body' who put Messi and Ronaldo in shade The Best FIFA Awards 2020 - Complete list of winners: The Best FIFA Women's Player: Lucy Bronze (England/Olympique Lyonnais/Manchester City) The Best FIFA Men's Coach: Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool) The Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper: Sarah Bouhaddi (France/Olympique Lyonnais) The Best FIFA Men's Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (Germany/Bayern Munich) The Best FIFA Men's Player: Robert Lewandowski (Poland/Bayern Munich) The Best FIFA Women's Coach: Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands) FIFA Fair Play Award: Mattia Agnese (Italy) FIFA Puskas Award: Son Heung-min (South Korea/Tottenham) FIFA Fan Award: Marivaldo Francisco da Silva (Brazil) FIFA FIFPRO Women's World11: Christiane Endler; Lucy Bronze; Wendie Renard; Millie Bright; Delphine Cascarino; Barbara Bonansea; Veronica Boquete; Megan Rapinoe; Pernille Harder; Vivianne Miedema; Tobin Heath FIFA FIFPRO Men's World11: Alisson Becker; Trent Alexander-Arnold; Sergio Ramos; Virgil van Dijk; Alphonso Davies; Kevin de Bruyne; Thiago Alcantara; Joshua Kimmich; Lionel Messi; Robert Lewandowski; Cristiano Ronaldo

The BEST FIFA Football Awards 2020: From Lewandowski to Klopp - here's list of all winners

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.&nbsp;

• STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-nba-to-super-bowl-heres-complete-list-of-winners-in-2020-350549" hreflang="en">From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020</a>

• KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg).&nbsp;

• BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers.&nbsp;

• KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-mahomes-to-giannis-athletes-with-biggest-contracts-in-sporting-history-350214" hreflang="en">From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history</a>

• KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19.&nbsp;

• JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago.

Several of the NBA’s best players are preparing to come back after missing most or all of last season. The list of returnees includes two former Kia NBA Most Valuable Player Award winners and five players who were NBA All-Star selections as recently as two seasons ago. • STEPHEN CURRY, GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (5 GP LAST SEASON): The two-time Kia NBA MVP led Golden State to three NBA championships and five consecutive NBA Finals appearances before last season’s extended absence (he returned in March and played one game before the season was paused). Curry needs five three-pointers to reach 2,500 for his career and is 66 threes from passing Reggie Miller for the second-most in NBA history. He is also poised to become the Warriors’ franchise leader in both points and assists this season. ALSO READ: From NBA to Super Bowl: Here's complete list of winners in 2020 • KEVIN DURANT, BROOKLYN NETS (0 GP): The 10-time NBA AllStar and 2013-14 Kia NBA MVP is set for his first action since the 2019 NBA Finals. In three seasons with Golden State, Durant won two Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP awards and reached the NBA Finals three times. A four-time scoring champion, Durant has the sixth-highest scoring average in NBA history (27.0 ppg). • BLAKE GRIFFIN, DETROIT PISTONS (18 GP): In 2018-19 (his first full season with Detroit), Griffin averaged a career-high 24.5 points, was named an NBA All-Star for the sixth time and earned All-NBA Third Team honors. He also made a career-high 189 three-pointers. • KYRIE IRVING, BROOKLYN NETS (20 GP): Irving made a splash with 50 points in his first game as a Net, the highest-scoring debut in NBA history. He averaged 27.4 points in 20 games, which would have been a career-high over a full season. Before last season, Irving had been named an NBA All-Star six times in a seven-year span. ALSO READ: From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history • KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS, MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (35 GP): Towns actually played more than half of Minnesota’s games last season, but he also had two extended absences, one of which sidelined him for the final 12 games. He averaged 26.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists and shot 41.2 per cent from three-point range in 35 games. Towns was an NBA All-Star selection in 2017-18 and 2018-19. • JOHN WALL, WASHINGTON WIZARDS (0 GP): Wall is poised to return two years after his last regular-season NBA game (Dec. 26, 2018). He made five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 2014-18, a stretch during which he averaged at least 10.0 assists three times. This will be Wall’s 10th playing season with the Wizards, who selected him with the first overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

Top players back in action in NBA as fresh season awaits

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney. The CA said that the situation is being closely monitored but was confident of pulling off the Test match.

Australian cricket authorities were put on alert after number of coronavirus cases in Sydney reached 28 on Friday. The third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground is slated to be played from January 7.&nbsp;

"There's been lots of discussion and meetings of our medical experts, but this is the reason why throughout the summer we've had our players in bubbles in the hub," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley told SEN Radio.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-personal-decision-pcb-reacts-to-mohammad-amirs-decision-to-retire-from-international-cricket-350499" hreflang="en">'This is a personal decision': PCB reacts to Mohammad Amir's decision to retire from international cricket</a>

"We're monitoring the situation; we're not panicking at all, staying calm... ... it's really watch, wait and see and I think the governments around the country have handled the pandemic so well, so we'll watch, learn and stay in touch."

On whether the SCG Test was in doubt, Hockley said: "I don't think so - this is the very reason why we have the hubs in place... "... whether it's the WBBL players, the BBL players, the BCCI, our own Australia squads, they have been absolutely fantastic in dealing with all the protocols.

"Our medical experts have been working around the clock, we're in very good communication with health authorities around the country. It's one of the things we've had to navigate with getting cricket up safely."&nbsp;

The latest Sydney outbreak has already had an impact on the broadcasters with former Aussie pacer and Fox Cricket commentator Brett Lee decided to go back home in northern Sydney. Whereas two Sydney-based members of the broadcasters returned back to their home base while two others decided to work from hotel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-suffers-run-out-after-terrible-mix-up-with-ajinkya-rahane-in-adelaide-test-350471" hreflang="en">Watch: Virat Kohli suffers run-out after terrible mix-up with Ajinkya Rahane in Adelaide Test</a>

"If the game can be played safely (in Sydney) then we'll play it there. That's our starting point, so it's working with the health authorities to ascertain that," he said.

"We started out thinking how to play the full series as safely as possible, and we'll take the same approach over the coming days and weeks.&nbsp;

"We've got contingency plans around a whole range of different options, and we've had to be agile all the way through. We were encouraged that it was 17 cases yesterday and ten today, and we'll see how that plays out over the next 72 hours."&nbsp;

Before the third Test, the second match is scheduled to start at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Deceber 26 and its chief Stuart Fox said they are open to supporting CA if need be.&nbsp;

"We hope that doesn't happen to Sydney. We know what it's like to lose a major event. For us, all focus is on the Boxing Day Test," he was quoted as saying by 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "We're here to support Cricket Australia if need be." 
&nbsp;

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney.

Cricket Australia on Friday said that the third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India is still on despite a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney. The CA said that the situation is being closely monitored but was confident of pulling off the Test match. Australian cricket authorities were put on alert after number of coronavirus cases in Sydney reached 28 on Friday. The third Test between India and Australia at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground is slated to be played from January 7. "There's been lots of discussion and meetings of our medical experts, but this is the reason why throughout the summer we've had our players in bubbles in the hub," CA's interim chief executive Nick Hockley told SEN Radio. ALSO READ:'This is a personal decision': PCB reacts to Mohammad Amir's decision to retire from international cricket "We're monitoring the situation; we're not panicking at all, staying calm... ... it's really watch, wait and see and I think the governments around the country have handled the pandemic so well, so we'll watch, learn and stay in touch." On whether the SCG Test was in doubt, Hockley said: "I don't think so - this is the very reason why we have the hubs in place... "... whether it's the WBBL players, the BBL players, the BCCI, our own Australia squads, they have been absolutely fantastic in dealing with all the protocols. "Our medical experts have been working around the clock, we're in very good communication with health authorities around the country. It's one of the things we've had to navigate with getting cricket up safely." The latest Sydney outbreak has already had an impact on the broadcasters with former Aussie pacer and Fox Cricket commentator Brett Lee decided to go back home in northern Sydney. Whereas two Sydney-based members of the broadcasters returned back to their home base while two others decided to work from hotel. ALSO READ: Watch: Virat Kohli suffers run-out after terrible mix-up with Ajinkya Rahane in Adelaide Test "If the game can be played safely (in Sydney) then we'll play it there. That's our starting point, so it's working with the health authorities to ascertain that," he said. "We started out thinking how to play the full series as safely as possible, and we'll take the same approach over the coming days and weeks. "We've got contingency plans around a whole range of different options, and we've had to be agile all the way through. We were encouraged that it was 17 cases yesterday and ten today, and we'll see how that plays out over the next 72 hours." Before the third Test, the second match is scheduled to start at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Deceber 26 and its chief Stuart Fox said they are open to supporting CA if need be. "We hope that doesn't happen to Sydney. We know what it's like to lose a major event. For us, all focus is on the Boxing Day Test," he was quoted as saying by 'Sydney Morning Herald'. "We're here to support Cricket Australia if need be."

SCG Test on despite Sydney COVID-19 outbreak, situation being monitored by Cricket Australia

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United extended their 100 percent record on the road, coming from behind again to win 3-2 at the Premier League’s bottom club Sheffield United on Thursday.

United have now won all six away league games this season -- conceding first on each occasion -- and the latest comeback victory moved them up to sixth place, on 23 points, five behind leaders Liverpool but with a game in hand.

Sheffield United’s solitary point from 13 matches is the worst start by a team in any top-flight campaign and the Blades have now lost eight matches in a row and 15 of their last 16 going back to last season.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opted to play keeper Dean Henderson ahead of David De Gea for the trip to Bramall Lane where the English keeper played and impressed on loan last season.

But Henderson made a nightmare start, getting caught in possession by Oliver Burke who slid the ball to David McGoldrick who fired the Blades into a fifth-minute lead.

John Fleck failed to take a great chance to make it 2-0 for Chris Wilder’s team and that let-off sparked Manchester United into life.

After wasting a good opportunity with a wild shot, Rashford made no mistake in the 26th minute as he collected a long ball from Victor Lindelof with a deft first touch and deadly first-time strike.

Paul Pogba set up the second with a one-touch pass on the turn, over the top of the Sheffield defence to Anthony Martial, who rounded Aaron Ramsdale before slotting home.

<h2>FINE MOVE</h2>

Six minutes after the break, Rashford added his second to make it 3-1, finishing off a fine passing move started by Pogba, with a shot that squeezed under Ramsdale’s body.

McGoldrick pulled one back for the Yorkshire strugglers three minutes from the end, heading in a corner from close range before Henderson made amends for his early mistake with a reflex save to keep out a Lys Mousset drive.

Solskjaer was pleased with most of United’s display after another slow start.

“We played some brilliant football between their first goal and their second goal - the end was a bit too uncomfortable for my liking,” he said.

Asked about his players believing they could yet win the title, the Norwegian was cautious.

“We can’t get our heads too far ahead, but I am happy the players might be thinking that way because that means recovery, focus is better and those little margins mean a lot,” he said.

Wilder took heart from his side’s performance.

“It has given myself and the players a belief that if we do play in the manner we played - especially out of possession - that there is something left in this season for us,” he said.

“I will stick my head on the pillow tonight knowing the team has left everything out there.”

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United extended their 100 percent record on the road, coming from behind again to win 3-2 at the Premier League’s bottom club Sheffield United on Thursday.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United extended their 100 percent record on the road, coming from behind again to win 3-2 at the Premier League’s bottom club Sheffield United on Thursday. United have now won all six away league games this season -- conceding first on each occasion -- and the latest comeback victory moved them up to sixth place, on 23 points, five behind leaders Liverpool but with a game in hand. Sheffield United’s solitary point from 13 matches is the worst start by a team in any top-flight campaign and the Blades have now lost eight matches in a row and 15 of their last 16 going back to last season. Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opted to play keeper Dean Henderson ahead of David De Gea for the trip to Bramall Lane where the English keeper played and impressed on loan last season. But Henderson made a nightmare start, getting caught in possession by Oliver Burke who slid the ball to David McGoldrick who fired the Blades into a fifth-minute lead. John Fleck failed to take a great chance to make it 2-0 for Chris Wilder’s team and that let-off sparked Manchester United into life. After wasting a good opportunity with a wild shot, Rashford made no mistake in the 26th minute as he collected a long ball from Victor Lindelof with a deft first touch and deadly first-time strike. Paul Pogba set up the second with a one-touch pass on the turn, over the top of the Sheffield defence to Anthony Martial, who rounded Aaron Ramsdale before slotting home. FINE MOVE Six minutes after the break, Rashford added his second to make it 3-1, finishing off a fine passing move started by Pogba, with a shot that squeezed under Ramsdale’s body. McGoldrick pulled one back for the Yorkshire strugglers three minutes from the end, heading in a corner from close range before Henderson made amends for his early mistake with a reflex save to keep out a Lys Mousset drive. Solskjaer was pleased with most of United’s display after another slow start. “We played some brilliant football between their first goal and their second goal - the end was a bit too uncomfortable for my liking,” he said. Asked about his players believing they could yet win the title, the Norwegian was cautious. “We can’t get our heads too far ahead, but I am happy the players might be thinking that way because that means recovery, focus is better and those little margins mean a lot,” he said. Wilder took heart from his side’s performance. “It has given myself and the players a belief that if we do play in the manner we played - especially out of possession - that there is something left in this season for us,” he said. “I will stick my head on the pillow tonight knowing the team has left everything out there.”

Rashford double as Man United fight back again to sink Blades

Nicknamed 'The Body' and dubbed a 'machine' by his wife, Robert Lewandowski has done what many thought impossible -- relegating superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to supporting roles at a football awards show.

On Thursday, Bayern Munich's Polish striker claimed FIFA's 'The Best' prize for the year's top footballer, a season crowned by a European Champions League medal.

"He deserved it more than anyone else. He played the season of his life," said Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge after Lewandowski's 55 goals in 2019/20 were a key factor in Bayern winning the treble.

The Poland forward has already scored 18 goals in 17 games this season, hitting the net twice against Wolfsburg on Wednesday to pass the milestone of 250 Bundesliga goals.

The fact Lewandowski has had to wait until he is 32 to be crowned at FIFA's 'The Best' awards is down to the way he proved himself in the knock-out stages of the Champions League last season.

Despite having been the Bundesliga's top-scorer for five of the last seven seasons, Lewandowski was getting a reputation for struggling to find the net in key Champions League games.

Up until February, he had failed to score in his previous seven matches in the knock-out stages.

<h2>- Chelsea slayer -</h2>

His four goals for ex-club Dortmund in the 2013 semi-final, first-leg, against Real Madrid seemed a faded memory.&nbsp;

All that changed in February's last 16 win over Chelsea, when Lewandowski scored at Stamford Bridge, then set up Serge Gnarby's two goals in a 3-0 away win.

When the return leg was played nearly six month later, Lewandowski had a hand in all four goals -- scoring twice and creating two more -- in the 4-1 win at the Allianz Arena.

Lewandowski followed that up by scoring in the historic 8-2 quarter-final rout of Messi's Barcelona and netted again in the 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

He finished as the Champions League's top-scorer with 15 goals, two short of Ronaldo's record for a single season and was dubbed 'LewanGOALski' by Bayern team-mate Thomas Mueller.

His three goals in this season's group stages puts him level with Real Madrid legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals, short of Messi's 118 and Ronaldo, who has scored 134 times.

In October, Lewandowski was named UEFA's Player of the Year after Bayern added the UEFA Super Cup to their Bundesliga, German Cup and Champions League titles.

He could complete the set in February if Bayern win the Club World Cup in Qatar.

Lewandowski was spotted as a raw 21-year-old playing Polish league club for Lech Poznan, where he scored 41 goals in 82 games and joined Dortmund in 2010.

<h2>- 'The Body' -</h2>

He made his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp, helping Dortmund win back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2010/11 and 2011/12.

He hit a hat-trick in the 5-2 drubbing of Bayern in the 2012 German Cup final, joining the Munich giants two years later having scored 103 goals in 187 games for Dortmund.

His goals on Wednesday mean Lewandowski has now scored 264 times in 306 games for the European champions.

Nicknamed 'The Body' by his team-mates, Lewandowski is known for his disciplined approach to nutrition and training, resulting in his honed physique.

"My husband is a machine," admits wife Anna, a former Polish karate international who serves as his personal trainer.

Lewandowski is rarely injured and former Bayern captain Oliver Kahn sees the striker as "an absolute model of professionalism, a condition for staying at the highest level for a very long time."

Nicknamed 'The Body' and dubbed a 'machine' by his wife, Robert Lewandowski has done what many thought impossible -- relegating superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to supporting roles at a football awards show.

Nicknamed 'The Body' and dubbed a 'machine' by his wife, Robert Lewandowski has done what many thought impossible -- relegating superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to supporting roles at a football awards show. On Thursday, Bayern Munich's Polish striker claimed FIFA's 'The Best' prize for the year's top footballer, a season crowned by a European Champions League medal. "He deserved it more than anyone else. He played the season of his life," said Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge after Lewandowski's 55 goals in 2019/20 were a key factor in Bayern winning the treble. The Poland forward has already scored 18 goals in 17 games this season, hitting the net twice against Wolfsburg on Wednesday to pass the milestone of 250 Bundesliga goals. The fact Lewandowski has had to wait until he is 32 to be crowned at FIFA's 'The Best' awards is down to the way he proved himself in the knock-out stages of the Champions League last season. Despite having been the Bundesliga's top-scorer for five of the last seven seasons, Lewandowski was getting a reputation for struggling to find the net in key Champions League games. Up until February, he had failed to score in his previous seven matches in the knock-out stages. - Chelsea slayer - His four goals for ex-club Dortmund in the 2013 semi-final, first-leg, against Real Madrid seemed a faded memory. All that changed in February's last 16 win over Chelsea, when Lewandowski scored at Stamford Bridge, then set up Serge Gnarby's two goals in a 3-0 away win. When the return leg was played nearly six month later, Lewandowski had a hand in all four goals -- scoring twice and creating two more -- in the 4-1 win at the Allianz Arena. Lewandowski followed that up by scoring in the historic 8-2 quarter-final rout of Messi's Barcelona and netted again in the 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon. He finished as the Champions League's top-scorer with 15 goals, two short of Ronaldo's record for a single season and was dubbed 'LewanGOALski' by Bayern team-mate Thomas Mueller. His three goals in this season's group stages puts him level with Real Madrid legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals, short of Messi's 118 and Ronaldo, who has scored 134 times. In October, Lewandowski was named UEFA's Player of the Year after Bayern added the UEFA Super Cup to their Bundesliga, German Cup and Champions League titles. He could complete the set in February if Bayern win the Club World Cup in Qatar. Lewandowski was spotted as a raw 21-year-old playing Polish league club for Lech Poznan, where he scored 41 goals in 82 games and joined Dortmund in 2010. - 'The Body' - He made his breakthrough under Jurgen Klopp, helping Dortmund win back-to-back Bundesliga titles in 2010/11 and 2011/12. He hit a hat-trick in the 5-2 drubbing of Bayern in the 2012 German Cup final, joining the Munich giants two years later having scored 103 goals in 187 games for Dortmund. His goals on Wednesday mean Lewandowski has now scored 264 times in 306 games for the European champions. Nicknamed 'The Body' by his team-mates, Lewandowski is known for his disciplined approach to nutrition and training, resulting in his honed physique. "My husband is a machine," admits wife Anna, a former Polish karate international who serves as his personal trainer. Lewandowski is rarely injured and former Bayern captain Oliver Kahn sees the striker as "an absolute model of professionalism, a condition for staying at the highest level for a very long time."

Robert Lewandowski, 'The Body' who put Messi and Ronaldo in shade

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was named men's player of the year on Thursday at FIFA's 'The Best' awards ceremony in Zurich.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old Lewandowski, top scorer in Europe and winner of the Champions League with Bayern, came out ahead of the other two nominees, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

England defender Lucy Bronze took the women's award, seeing off the challenge of Wendie Renard and Pernille Harder.

It is the first occassion for both Lewandowski and Bronze to win the award, with the Pole only the second player after Luka Modric in 2018 to break a&nbsp;13-year Messi-Ronaldo hegemony.

"I am very proud and very happy," said Lewandowski.&nbsp;

"I have to honestly say that it is a great day for me and for my club.

"It is an unbelievable feeling. Winning an award ahead of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo means a lot to me."&nbsp;

Lewandowski's stellar season for all-conquering Bayern has already been recognised by UEFA who awarded the Polish striker European player of the year in October.&nbsp;

While he has won the Bundesliga in each of his first six seasons at Bayern, finishing as the league's top scorer in four of the last five seasons, his international profile has been hurt in the past by Poland's mediocre form and his previous failure, at Dortmund and Bayern, to win the Champions League.

Last season, however, he was spectacular as Bayern won every game in Europe including the Champions League final against Paris St-Germain.&nbsp;

Lewandowski finished with 15 goals in the competition, five more than the next best striker, Erling Braut Haaland.

"It has not been an easy year, as it has been for the whole world, but we won everything we could win," said the Pole.

"The highlight was the victory in the Champions League final against PSG, it was a special day."

His Bayern teammate Manuel Neuer was chosen as 'The Best' FIFA men’s goalkeeper.

Bronze, 29, who succeeds last year's winner Megan Rapinoe, won the Champions League with Lyon in August before moving back to England to play for Manchester City.

She was a suprise winner ahead of her former Lyon teammate Renard, and striker Harder, who moved from Wolfsburg to Chelsea in early September.

"What a surprise, to even be nominated alongside the two other players, they are both incredible players and outstanding human beings well," said Bronze during the ceremony.

"I don't think I have the words right now to explain how I am feeling. If there is anything 2020 has taught us it is to appreciate every moment you have, never look too far ahead and live in the here and now.

"I will appreciate winning this award now more than ever and I will remember this moment for the rest of my life."

France and Lyon's Sarah Bouhaddi capped her fine career with The Best FIFA women's goalkeeper award.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was named men's coach of the year while current Dutch women’s national team boss Sarina Wiegman took the women's award for the second time in her career following her 2017 success.&nbsp;

The Puskas Award for best goal went to Tottenham's South Korean striker Son Heung-min for a mazy, individual goal he scored against Burnley in the Premier League in December 2019.

The Best awards began in 2017 after a brief merger with the Ballon D'Or, which was cancelled this year because of coronavirus, and the FIFA Player of the Year award, which was created in 1991.

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was named men's player of the year on Thursday at FIFA's 'The Best' awards ceremony in Zurich. The 32-year-old Lewandowski, top scorer in Europe and winner of the Champions League with Bayern, came out ahead of the other two nominees, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was named men's player of the year on Thursday at FIFA's 'The Best' awards ceremony in Zurich. The 32-year-old Lewandowski, top scorer in Europe and winner of the Champions League with Bayern, came out ahead of the other two nominees, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. England defender Lucy Bronze took the women's award, seeing off the challenge of Wendie Renard and Pernille Harder. It is the first occassion for both Lewandowski and Bronze to win the award, with the Pole only the second player after Luka Modric in 2018 to break a 13-year Messi-Ronaldo hegemony. "I am very proud and very happy," said Lewandowski. "I have to honestly say that it is a great day for me and for my club. "It is an unbelievable feeling. Winning an award ahead of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo means a lot to me." Lewandowski's stellar season for all-conquering Bayern has already been recognised by UEFA who awarded the Polish striker European player of the year in October. While he has won the Bundesliga in each of his first six seasons at Bayern, finishing as the league's top scorer in four of the last five seasons, his international profile has been hurt in the past by Poland's mediocre form and his previous failure, at Dortmund and Bayern, to win the Champions League. Last season, however, he was spectacular as Bayern won every game in Europe including the Champions League final against Paris St-Germain. Lewandowski finished with 15 goals in the competition, five more than the next best striker, Erling Braut Haaland. "It has not been an easy year, as it has been for the whole world, but we won everything we could win," said the Pole. "The highlight was the victory in the Champions League final against PSG, it was a special day." His Bayern teammate Manuel Neuer was chosen as 'The Best' FIFA men’s goalkeeper. Bronze, 29, who succeeds last year's winner Megan Rapinoe, won the Champions League with Lyon in August before moving back to England to play for Manchester City. She was a suprise winner ahead of her former Lyon teammate Renard, and striker Harder, who moved from Wolfsburg to Chelsea in early September. "What a surprise, to even be nominated alongside the two other players, they are both incredible players and outstanding human beings well," said Bronze during the ceremony. "I don't think I have the words right now to explain how I am feeling. If there is anything 2020 has taught us it is to appreciate every moment you have, never look too far ahead and live in the here and now. "I will appreciate winning this award now more than ever and I will remember this moment for the rest of my life." France and Lyon's Sarah Bouhaddi capped her fine career with The Best FIFA women's goalkeeper award. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was named men's coach of the year while current Dutch women’s national team boss Sarina Wiegman took the women's award for the second time in her career following her 2017 success. The Puskas Award for best goal went to Tottenham's South Korean striker Son Heung-min for a mazy, individual goal he scored against Burnley in the Premier League in December 2019. The Best awards began in 2017 after a brief merger with the Ballon D'Or, which was cancelled this year because of coronavirus, and the FIFA Player of the Year award, which was created in 1991.

Lewandowski and Bronze win FIFA player of the year awards

The body of late soccer great Diego Maradona “must be conserved” in case his DNA is needed in a paternity case, an Argentine court ruled on Wednesday.

Maradona died of a heart attack last month and was buried on Nov. 26 in a cemetery just outside Buenos Aires.

While Maradona’s lawyer had previously told Reuters that DNA samples already exist, the court said the former Boca Juniors and Napoli player’s body must not be cremated at some later date.

Five recognised children and six with filiation requests are part of a complex inheritance process in Argentina.

One of the six, Magalí Gil, 25, says she found out two years ago that the soccer icon was her biological father.

The ruling from the National Court of First Instance in Civil Matters No. 56 also said: “Ms. Gil requests that a study be carried out ... and that for this purpose the acting prosecutor’s office send a DNA sample.”

Maradona recognised four children in Argentina and one in Italy, which he had during his time as a player in the country.

The body of late soccer great Diego Maradona “must be conserved” in case his DNA is needed in a paternity case, an Argentine court ruled on Wednesday. Maradona died of a heart attack last month and was buried on Nov.

The body of late soccer great Diego Maradona “must be conserved” in case his DNA is needed in a paternity case, an Argentine court ruled on Wednesday. Maradona died of a heart attack last month and was buried on Nov. 26 in a cemetery just outside Buenos Aires. While Maradona’s lawyer had previously told Reuters that DNA samples already exist, the court said the former Boca Juniors and Napoli player’s body must not be cremated at some later date. Five recognised children and six with filiation requests are part of a complex inheritance process in Argentina. One of the six, Magalí Gil, 25, says she found out two years ago that the soccer icon was her biological father. The ruling from the National Court of First Instance in Civil Matters No. 56 also said: “Ms. Gil requests that a study be carried out ... and that for this purpose the acting prosecutor’s office send a DNA sample.” Maradona recognised four children in Argentina and one in Italy, which he had during his time as a player in the country.

Court rules Maradona's body 'must be conserved'

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa.

Defending champions Juventus sit three points behind Inter after Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in a 1-1 home draw with Atalanta.

Napoli -- who played the final quarter of an hour a man down after captain Lorenzo Insigne was sent off -- drop to fourth, a further point adrift.

Insigne saw red for arguing with the referee after goalkeeper David Ospina fouled Inter's Matteo Darmian to concede the crucial spot-kick.

"Only in Italy players are thrown out for this stuff," fumed Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, blasting "a dubious penalty".

Napoli also saw club record scorer Dries Mertens limp off with an ankle injury in the first half.

Lukaku stepped up to slot in on 73 minutes for his 10th league goal this season, joining Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the top of the Serie A goalscoring chart.

Inter could also thank goalkeeper Samir Handanovic&nbsp;for their clean sheet, denying Insigne and Giovanni Di Lorenzo late on.

For Antonio Conte's Inter it was a fifth consecutive league win as they target a first Scudetto since 2010, with their European hopes now over.

"It was a painful victory that can do us good," said Conte.&nbsp;"These are three important points because against a rival and a great team like Napoli they are worth double."

AC Milan, playing a fourth consecutive league game without the injured Ibrahimovic, came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw as Mattia Destro scored a double for Genoa.

The Italian striker tapped in a rebound after Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Eldor Shomurodov just after the break.

Five minutes later, Davide Calabria's long-range effort pulled Milan level before Destro headed in a second on the hour.

But French defender Pierre Kalulu nodded in from close range to rescue a second consecutive draw for Milan, who stay unbeaten in Serie A since March and are looking to deny Juventus a 10th straight league triumph this season.

"We had six players out and had to grit our teeth but those who played proved to be up to par," said coach Stefano Pioli.&nbsp;

"Our club has not been in the Champions League for many years and that is our goal."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Sixth Juventus stalemate -</h2>

&nbsp;

In Turin, unbeaten Juventus were held for the sixth time in Serie A this term.

Federico Chiesa curled in a powerful shot to put Juventus ahead before the half-hour mark.

But Atalanta hit back with Remo Freuler grabbing the equaliser 12 minutes into the second half, shortly after captain Papu Gomez came off the bench.

The build-up to the game had been overshadowed by tensions between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and Gomez, left out of their last two league games amid speculation he could leave the Bergamo club in January.

Ronaldo, who had fired over the target in the fifth minute, had a rare penalty miss after an hour following a Hans Hateboer foul on Chiesa.

The Portuguese striker's weak effort was easily saved by Atalanta keeper Pierluigi Gollini.

Spaniard Alvaro Morata had missed a golden chance after 12 minutes, sending a weak back-heel flick wide in front of an open goal.

At the other end of the pitch, Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny saved a Cristian Romero header with a quarter of an hour to go.

"You have to take these games home," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo.

"We had many opportunities and we weren't able to close it. When you leave the game in the balance anything can happen."

Atalanta, who also held Juventus the last time they played in Turin last July, are eighth, 10 points behind AC Milan, after a slow start to the campaign.

"It's a great result," said Gasperini. "We were very good, at one point we were convinced of winning it.&nbsp;

"We played with personality against a team that are one of the favourites for the Scudetto."

Fifth-placed Sassuolo drew 1-1 at Fiorentina, whose winless run stretched to seven games.

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa.

Romelu Lukaku scored from the penalty spot as Inter Milan battled past title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Wednesday to move one point behind Serie A leaders and city rivals AC Milan who were held at Genoa. Defending champions Juventus sit three points behind Inter after Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in a 1-1 home draw with Atalanta. Napoli -- who played the final quarter of an hour a man down after captain Lorenzo Insigne was sent off -- drop to fourth, a further point adrift. Insigne saw red for arguing with the referee after goalkeeper David Ospina fouled Inter's Matteo Darmian to concede the crucial spot-kick. "Only in Italy players are thrown out for this stuff," fumed Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso, blasting "a dubious penalty". Napoli also saw club record scorer Dries Mertens limp off with an ankle injury in the first half. Lukaku stepped up to slot in on 73 minutes for his 10th league goal this season, joining Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic at the top of the Serie A goalscoring chart. Inter could also thank goalkeeper Samir Handanovic for their clean sheet, denying Insigne and Giovanni Di Lorenzo late on. For Antonio Conte's Inter it was a fifth consecutive league win as they target a first Scudetto since 2010, with their European hopes now over. "It was a painful victory that can do us good," said Conte. "These are three important points because against a rival and a great team like Napoli they are worth double." AC Milan, playing a fourth consecutive league game without the injured Ibrahimovic, came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw as Mattia Destro scored a double for Genoa. The Italian striker tapped in a rebound after Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Eldor Shomurodov just after the break. Five minutes later, Davide Calabria's long-range effort pulled Milan level before Destro headed in a second on the hour. But French defender Pierre Kalulu nodded in from close range to rescue a second consecutive draw for Milan, who stay unbeaten in Serie A since March and are looking to deny Juventus a 10th straight league triumph this season. "We had six players out and had to grit our teeth but those who played proved to be up to par," said coach Stefano Pioli. "Our club has not been in the Champions League for many years and that is our goal." - Sixth Juventus stalemate - In Turin, unbeaten Juventus were held for the sixth time in Serie A this term. Federico Chiesa curled in a powerful shot to put Juventus ahead before the half-hour mark. But Atalanta hit back with Remo Freuler grabbing the equaliser 12 minutes into the second half, shortly after captain Papu Gomez came off the bench. The build-up to the game had been overshadowed by tensions between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and Gomez, left out of their last two league games amid speculation he could leave the Bergamo club in January. Ronaldo, who had fired over the target in the fifth minute, had a rare penalty miss after an hour following a Hans Hateboer foul on Chiesa. The Portuguese striker's weak effort was easily saved by Atalanta keeper Pierluigi Gollini. Spaniard Alvaro Morata had missed a golden chance after 12 minutes, sending a weak back-heel flick wide in front of an open goal. At the other end of the pitch, Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny saved a Cristian Romero header with a quarter of an hour to go. "You have to take these games home," said Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo. "We had many opportunities and we weren't able to close it. When you leave the game in the balance anything can happen." Atalanta, who also held Juventus the last time they played in Turin last July, are eighth, 10 points behind AC Milan, after a slow start to the campaign. "It's a great result," said Gasperini. "We were very good, at one point we were convinced of winning it. "We played with personality against a team that are one of the favourites for the Scudetto." Fifth-placed Sassuolo drew 1-1 at Fiorentina, whose winless run stretched to seven games.

Inter close gap on leaders AC Milan, Ronaldo penalty miss stalls Juve

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham must learn to kill games off if they are to win a first league title in 60 years after Roberto Firmino's late winner earned Liverpool a 2-1 win over his side on Wednesday.

The Brazilian's towering header ended an 11-game unbeaten league run for Mourinho's men and opened up a three-point lead for the defending champions at the top of the Premier League table.

Liverpool enjoyed 76 percent possession and had 11 shots on target to Tottenham's two, but Mourinho still believed Spurs would have been deserving winners had they taken their chances early in the second half.

Steven Bergwijn hit the post and Harry Kane uncharacteristically headed a huge opportunity over at 1-1.

"We were so close to a win, not so close to a draw," said Mourinho, who had an exchange of words with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp at full-time.

"A draw would be a bad result in relation to the performance, so you can imagine how we feel with the defeat.

"Of course they had more of the ball but when we had it, we knew how to hurt them. We have to score -- the second, third goal, we have to score it to kill the game.

"In matches like these where you don't have 10 chances, just three or four, you have to score three and kill it, which we didn't."

Liverpool are now 66 games unbeaten in the league at Anfield and showed why they remain the favourites in a wide-open title race with their ability to consistently win tight games late on.

"Completely deserved," said Klopp of his side's victory.&nbsp;"A really good game against a top side, a counter-attacking monster.

"You lose one ball and you end up with an 80 percent possibility in your own box so you have to really concentrate."

<h2>- Houllier tributes -</h2>

Before kick-off, the Liverpool support, players and officials paid their respects to former manager Gerard Houllier, who died earlier this week at 73.

Unusually kicking towards 2,000 fans in the Kop in the first half, Liverpool made a storming start as they swarmed over Spurs and could count themselves unfortunate not to have been out of sight by half-time.

Liverpool earned their luck for the opening goal when Mohamed Salah's shot took a huge deflection off Toby Alderweireld and looped beyond the helpless Hugo Lloris in off the far post.

Curtis Jones should have done better with a big chance to double the home side's advantage moments later as Lloris was again well-positioned to make a comfortable save.

But the moment Tottenham had been waiting for to launch the counter-attack that has thrust them into title contention, beating Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal in recent weeks, arrived on 33 minutes.

Giovani Lo Celso's brilliant pass opened up a makeshift Liverpool backline with 19-year-old Rhys Williams partnering midfielder Fabinho in central defence.

Son Heung-min timed his run to perfection to stay onside and coolly slotted past Alisson Becker for his 14th goal of the season.

Having weathered the storm, Spurs went on to enjoy the far better chances early in the second half.

Bergwijn prodded wide from a narrow angle after Williams showed his inexperience by getting caught under a simple ball down the middle.

The Dutch international had an even better sight of goal just after the hour mark when he hit the base of the post when clean through and from the resulting corner, Kane headed a glorious chance over.

Liverpool continued to enjoy more possession and nearly unpicked the lock of the Tottenham defence when Sadio Mane spun Serge Aurier and crashed a rising shot off the bar.

But Mourinho will be bitterly disappointed that his side were eventually undone by a set-piece as from Andy Robertson's corner, Firmino rose highest to silence the critics of his goal record with what could be one of the most important all season.

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham must learn to kill games off if they are to win a first league title in 60 years after Roberto Firmino's late winner earned Liverpool a 2-1 win over his side on Wednesday.

Jose Mourinho said Tottenham must learn to kill games off if they are to win a first league title in 60 years after Roberto Firmino's late winner earned Liverpool a 2-1 win over his side on Wednesday. The Brazilian's towering header ended an 11-game unbeaten league run for Mourinho's men and opened up a three-point lead for the defending champions at the top of the Premier League table. Liverpool enjoyed 76 percent possession and had 11 shots on target to Tottenham's two, but Mourinho still believed Spurs would have been deserving winners had they taken their chances early in the second half. Steven Bergwijn hit the post and Harry Kane uncharacteristically headed a huge opportunity over at 1-1. "We were so close to a win, not so close to a draw," said Mourinho, who had an exchange of words with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp at full-time. "A draw would be a bad result in relation to the performance, so you can imagine how we feel with the defeat. "Of course they had more of the ball but when we had it, we knew how to hurt them. We have to score -- the second, third goal, we have to score it to kill the game. "In matches like these where you don't have 10 chances, just three or four, you have to score three and kill it, which we didn't." Liverpool are now 66 games unbeaten in the league at Anfield and showed why they remain the favourites in a wide-open title race with their ability to consistently win tight games late on. "Completely deserved," said Klopp of his side's victory. "A really good game against a top side, a counter-attacking monster. "You lose one ball and you end up with an 80 percent possibility in your own box so you have to really concentrate." - Houllier tributes - Before kick-off, the Liverpool support, players and officials paid their respects to former manager Gerard Houllier, who died earlier this week at 73. Unusually kicking towards 2,000 fans in the Kop in the first half, Liverpool made a storming start as they swarmed over Spurs and could count themselves unfortunate not to have been out of sight by half-time. Liverpool earned their luck for the opening goal when Mohamed Salah's shot took a huge deflection off Toby Alderweireld and looped beyond the helpless Hugo Lloris in off the far post. Curtis Jones should have done better with a big chance to double the home side's advantage moments later as Lloris was again well-positioned to make a comfortable save. But the moment Tottenham had been waiting for to launch the counter-attack that has thrust them into title contention, beating Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal in recent weeks, arrived on 33 minutes. Giovani Lo Celso's brilliant pass opened up a makeshift Liverpool backline with 19-year-old Rhys Williams partnering midfielder Fabinho in central defence. Son Heung-min timed his run to perfection to stay onside and coolly slotted past Alisson Becker for his 14th goal of the season. Having weathered the storm, Spurs went on to enjoy the far better chances early in the second half. Bergwijn prodded wide from a narrow angle after Williams showed his inexperience by getting caught under a simple ball down the middle. The Dutch international had an even better sight of goal just after the hour mark when he hit the base of the post when clean through and from the resulting corner, Kane headed a glorious chance over. Liverpool continued to enjoy more possession and nearly unpicked the lock of the Tottenham defence when Sadio Mane spun Serge Aurier and crashed a rising shot off the bar. But Mourinho will be bitterly disappointed that his side were eventually undone by a set-piece as from Andy Robertson's corner, Firmino rose highest to silence the critics of his goal record with what could be one of the most important all season.

Mourinho wants killer instinct from Tottenham after Firmino takes Liverpool top

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday.

Batting after captain Virat Kohli won the toss on an overcast day, the visitors ground to 41 for two&nbsp;by the first break, known as dinner despite being in mid-afternoon.

Cheteshwar Pujara was not out 17 from 88 balls and Kohli unbeaten on five as they fended off a barrage from Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in front of a limited, but appreciative, crowd.

Cummins, the world's number one Test bowler, was the pick of the attack with 1-3 off six overs.

Australia went into the clash with their usual three quicks, but also debutant all-rounder Cameron Green, and they got off to a spectacular start.

Opener Prithvi Shaw was clean-bowled for a duck by left-armer Starc, the world's most potent pink-ball bowler, on only the second delivery, chopping onto his stumps as he looked to drive.

It was a poor shot and will give Indian selectors plenty to ponder after preferring him to fellow 21-year-old Shubman Gill, who has been in good touch.

Starc, who only rejoined the Australian squad this week after compassionate leave, almost trapped a tentative Pujara two balls later, catching an edge that fell just short of first slip.

But the experienced Pujara, whose 123 and 71 set up India for a 31-run win in Adelaide in 2018 en route to a maiden series victory in Australia, settled down and began blocking and grinding out runs.

It proved slow going as he and Mayank Agarwal rode their luck, with Pujara surviving again when a thick edge off Starc flew past Nathan Lyon's outstretched arm.

They scored just 21 in the first 10 overs before Cummins broke the second-wicket partnership with a beautiful delivery that clattered into Agarwal's middle stump, removing him for 17.

Superstar Kohli marched onto a ground he rates as his favourite overseas to steady the ship and see his team through to dinner without further loss.

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday.

A Mitchell Starc thunderbolt gave Australia a dream start Thursday before India dug in for an intimidating opening session on the first day of their day-night Test at Adelaide Oval Thursday. Batting after captain Virat Kohli won the toss on an overcast day, the visitors ground to 41 for two by the first break, known as dinner despite being in mid-afternoon. Cheteshwar Pujara was not out 17 from 88 balls and Kohli unbeaten on five as they fended off a barrage from Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in front of a limited, but appreciative, crowd. Cummins, the world's number one Test bowler, was the pick of the attack with 1-3 off six overs. Australia went into the clash with their usual three quicks, but also debutant all-rounder Cameron Green, and they got off to a spectacular start. Opener Prithvi Shaw was clean-bowled for a duck by left-armer Starc, the world's most potent pink-ball bowler, on only the second delivery, chopping onto his stumps as he looked to drive. It was a poor shot and will give Indian selectors plenty to ponder after preferring him to fellow 21-year-old Shubman Gill, who has been in good touch. Starc, who only rejoined the Australian squad this week after compassionate leave, almost trapped a tentative Pujara two balls later, catching an edge that fell just short of first slip. But the experienced Pujara, whose 123 and 71 set up India for a 31-run win in Adelaide in 2018 en route to a maiden series victory in Australia, settled down and began blocking and grinding out runs. It proved slow going as he and Mayank Agarwal rode their luck, with Pujara surviving again when a thick edge off Starc flew past Nathan Lyon's outstretched arm. They scored just 21 in the first 10 overs before Cummins broke the second-wicket partnership with a beautiful delivery that clattered into Agarwal's middle stump, removing him for 17. Superstar Kohli marched onto a ground he rates as his favourite overseas to steady the ship and see his team through to dinner without further loss.

Starc, Cummins draw first blood in opening Test against India

Russia is set to miss Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics after their ban from all major sporting events following a doping scandal has been cut half to two years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Thursday.

The two-year ban still stops Russia from competing in the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, scheduled to be held in 2021 and FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Notably, Russia was initially handed a four-year ban by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

CAS said that the reduction of the ban should not be taken “as any validation” of Russia’s conduct.’

Russia's ban will now be upto December 16, 2022.&nbsp;

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Earlier, WADA declared Russia's Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) as non-compliant for manipulating lab data given to the investigators in January 2019. Russia was asked to provide data to WADA as a condition of its reinstatement in 2018, which itself was controversial, after a three-year suspension for a doping scandal.

"The panel has imposed consequences to reflect the nature and seriousness of the non-compliance and to ensure that the integrity of sport against the scourge of doping is maintained," said Cas, which announced the ruling on Thursday.

"It has considered matters of proportionality and, in particular, the need to effect cultural change and encourage the next generation of Russian athletes to participate in clean international sport."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-taking-the-knee-to-joining-protests-athletes-who-contributed-to-black-lives-matter-movement-349554" hreflang="en">From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement</a>

Russia will unable to host international events during their two-year ban.&nbsp;

Notably, athletes who can prove that they were not part of the doping scandal are free to compete under a neutral flag.

As many as 168 Russian athletes competed under neutral flag at the 2018 Winter Olympics. Since 2016, Russia has been banned from competing as a nation in athletics.

Russia is set to miss Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics after their ban from all major sporting events following a doping scandal has been cut half to two years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Thursday.

Russia is set to miss Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics after their ban from all major sporting events following a doping scandal has been cut half to two years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on Thursday. The two-year ban still stops Russia from competing in the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, scheduled to be held in 2021 and FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Notably, Russia was initially handed a four-year ban by the World Anti-Doping Agency. CAS said that the reduction of the ban should not be taken “as any validation” of Russia’s conduct.’ Russia's ban will now be upto December 16, 2022. ALSO READ: From Mahomes to Giannis: Athletes with biggest contracts in sporting history Earlier, WADA declared Russia's Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) as non-compliant for manipulating lab data given to the investigators in January 2019. Russia was asked to provide data to WADA as a condition of its reinstatement in 2018, which itself was controversial, after a three-year suspension for a doping scandal. "The panel has imposed consequences to reflect the nature and seriousness of the non-compliance and to ensure that the integrity of sport against the scourge of doping is maintained," said Cas, which announced the ruling on Thursday. "It has considered matters of proportionality and, in particular, the need to effect cultural change and encourage the next generation of Russian athletes to participate in clean international sport." ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement Russia will unable to host international events during their two-year ban. Notably, athletes who can prove that they were not part of the doping scandal are free to compete under a neutral flag. As many as 168 Russian athletes competed under neutral flag at the 2018 Winter Olympics. Since 2016, Russia has been banned from competing as a nation in athletics.

Russia's doping ban halved by CAS, to miss Tokyo Olympics and FIFA World Cup 2022

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