With COVID-19 situation evolving every day around the world, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been kept among the back-up venues for the 2021 T20 World Cup should India fail to curb the spread of the dreaded virus in the country.&nbsp;

The ICC, last week, confirmed that India will be hosting the 2021 edition of the tournament as scheduled while the postponed 2020 T20 World Cup will be hosted by Australia in 2022. While locking on back-up venues has been a standard practice for every ICC Event, the situation around the virus makes it significant this time around.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, Sri Lanka and UAE have been kept among the back-ups for the showpiece event in 2021 in case India fails to flatten the curve by then. India is currently the third-worst hit country in the world in terms of positive cases with over 2 million cases and 45,000 deaths.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-t20i-cricket-returns-for-the-first-time-since-international-womens-day-319954" hreflang="en">Women's T20I cricket returns for the first time since International Women's Day</a>

Given the current situation, the BCCI was forced to relocate the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 to the UAE and have placed just tentative plans to start the domestic season.&nbsp;

The BCCI has maintained that it doesn’t want to host three big tournaments including 2023 IPL and World Cup back-to-back and came to a consensus about hosting the 2021 T20 World Cup in the ICC Board meeting. However, the recent outbreak of coronavirus in Australia played a part in Cricket Australia agreeing to host the T20 World Cup in 2022.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rajasthan-royals-fielding-coach-dishant-yagnik-tests-positive-for-covid-19-319902" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Meanwhile, IPL 2020 is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With COVID-19 situation evolving every day around the world, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been kept among the back-up venues for the 2021 T20 World Cup should India fail to curb the spread of the dreaded virus in the country.

With COVID-19 situation evolving every day around the world, Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been kept among the back-up venues for the 2021 T20 World Cup should India fail to curb the spread of the dreaded virus in the country. The ICC, last week, confirmed that India will be hosting the 2021 edition of the tournament as scheduled while the postponed 2020 T20 World Cup will be hosted by Australia in 2022. While locking on back-up venues has been a standard practice for every ICC Event, the situation around the virus makes it significant this time around. As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, Sri Lanka and UAE have been kept among the back-ups for the showpiece event in 2021 in case India fails to flatten the curve by then. India is currently the third-worst hit country in the world in terms of positive cases with over 2 million cases and 45,000 deaths. ALSO READ: Women's T20I cricket returns for the first time since International Women's Day Given the current situation, the BCCI was forced to relocate the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 to the UAE and have placed just tentative plans to start the domestic season. The BCCI has maintained that it doesn’t want to host three big tournaments including 2023 IPL and World Cup back-to-back and came to a consensus about hosting the 2021 T20 World Cup in the ICC Board meeting. However, the recent outbreak of coronavirus in Australia played a part in Cricket Australia agreeing to host the T20 World Cup in 2022. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik tests positive for COVID-19 Meanwhile, IPL 2020 is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10.

2021 T20 World Cup: UAE, Sri Lanka among back-up venues for tournament

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Sussex pacer Ollie Robinson has been added to the squad for the first time as he replaces ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who left the bio-secure bubble after the completion of first Test for family reasons.

England lead the three-match Test series 1-0 after a thunderous comeback in the second innings of the match. While England ended up trailing Pakistan in the first squad, a lackluster performance with the bat by the visitors and questionable captaincy by Azhar Ali in the second innings, helped England chase down the total.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stokes-absence-leaves-england-with-pakistan-problem-319907" hreflang="en">Stokes' absence leaves England with Pakistan problem</a>

Both Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler roared with the bat to help England seal their third consecutive Test win. &nbsp;

<h2>England Test Squad for second Test vs Pakistan:</h2>

Joe Root (Yorkshire) Captain, James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Dominic Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

<h2>England vs Pakistan three-match Test Series:</h2>

1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester (England won by three wickets)

2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 
&nbsp;

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England National Selectors on Wednesday named a 14-strong squad for the second Test against Pakistan scheduled to start on Thursday (August 13) at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Sussex pacer Ollie Robinson has been added to the squad for the first time as he replaces ace all-rounder Ben Stokes, who left the bio-secure bubble after the completion of first Test for family reasons. England lead the three-match Test series 1-0 after a thunderous comeback in the second innings of the match. While England ended up trailing Pakistan in the first squad, a lackluster performance with the bat by the visitors and questionable captaincy by Azhar Ali in the second innings, helped England chase down the total. ALSO READ: Stokes' absence leaves England with Pakistan problem Both Chris Woakes and Jos Buttler roared with the bat to help England seal their third consecutive Test win. England Test Squad for second Test vs Pakistan: Joe Root (Yorkshire) Captain, James Anderson (Lancashire), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Dominic Bess (Somerset), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). England vs Pakistan three-match Test Series: 1st Test: England v Pakistan, 5-9 August, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester (England won by three wickets) 2nd Test: England v Pakistan, 13-17 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton 3rd Test: England v Pakistan, 21-25 August, Ageas Bowl, Southampton

Robinson replaces Stokes as England name squad for 2nd Test vs Pakistan

The Australian Open 2021 could be moved to later date in the year due to COVID-19 pandemic, however, the tournament director Craig Tiley has said that the tournament organisers are confident of hosting the Grand Slam with complete prize money and fans in the stands in its scheduled time in January.

Melbourne is in between a full lockdown following another spike in coronavirus cases but Tiley and his team have been planning strategies to make sure the 2021 edition of Australian Open goes ahead without any fuss.

While ticket sales are set to commence in October, five ‘bio-secure bubbles’ will be opened across the country six weeks before the tournament starts in a bid to allow players coming to Australia to avoid stringent quarantine protocols.&nbsp;

“We’re going to open our bio bubble from the first of December and players can come at any time,” Tennis Australia’s (TA) chief executive told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lexington-open-calm-serena-williams-makes-winning-return-319931" hreflang="en">Lexington Open: 'Calm' Serena Williams makes winning return</a>

“When the players arrive, our expectation is they’re not going to be in a hotel for 14 days like the current requirements are. We’ll have an exemption within this bio-secure bubble.

“We’ve said every year that we’re the ‘happy slam’. But now we’re saying we’re the ‘very safe and happy slam.’”

Tennis Australia’s crisis management team, which was set up to combat the difficulties in conducting 2020 Australia Open following the bushfire smoke, has come up with a business and operational plan for each of the scenarios related to 2021 edition of the Grand Slam.&nbsp;

The first scenario was the event being held in much the same way as 2020, while the second was a tournament with limited crowds, said Tiley.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-champion-svetlana-kuznetsova-latest-to-withdraw-from-us-open-319679" hreflang="en">Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova latest to withdraw from U.S. Open</a>

“Scenario three was behind closed doors, a broadcast-only event. Scenario four was moving to another time of the year,” he added.

“And scenario five is no event at all.”

Tiley sounded confident of being able to allow around 400,000 fans to Melbourne Park in 2021 – which is around half the number that attended 2020 Australian Open. Effective physical distancing and wearing of masks will be made mandatory.&nbsp;

“We’ve established a strategy and an operational plan for all our fans and how they will be positioned around the site,” he said.

The tournament director further said that organisers had employed ‘global experts’ to set up bio-secure bubbles and testing facilities in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne, which will also help the players to get used to the climate and train for the Grand Slam.

Australian Open has been held in Melbourne since 1972 and is the primary source of revenue for Tennis Australia. The last edition had a direct economic impact of A$387 million ($277 million) on Melbourne, Tiley said.

TA expects turnover and revenue from the next edition to decrease by a double-digit percentage but they would not be reducing the A$71 million prize purse.

“I’m optimistic and positive that we’ll have an event and it’ll be in Melbourne,” said Tiley, adding that TA had cash reserves of A$80 million to lean on in the event the tournament had to be cancelled.

“It will have some crowds and it’ll be the beginning of kind of getting back to the way we were.”

(With Reuters inputs) 
&nbsp;

The Australian Open 2021 could be moved to later date in the year due to COVID-19 pandemic, however, the tournament director Craig Tiley has said that the tournament organisers are confident of hosting the Grand Slam with complete prize money and fans in the stands in its scheduled time in January.

The Australian Open 2021 could be moved to later date in the year due to COVID-19 pandemic, however, the tournament director Craig Tiley has said that the tournament organisers are confident of hosting the Grand Slam with complete prize money and fans in the stands in its scheduled time in January. Melbourne is in between a full lockdown following another spike in coronavirus cases but Tiley and his team have been planning strategies to make sure the 2021 edition of Australian Open goes ahead without any fuss. While ticket sales are set to commence in October, five ‘bio-secure bubbles’ will be opened across the country six weeks before the tournament starts in a bid to allow players coming to Australia to avoid stringent quarantine protocols. “We’re going to open our bio bubble from the first of December and players can come at any time,” Tennis Australia’s (TA) chief executive told Reuters. ALSO READ: Lexington Open: 'Calm' Serena Williams makes winning return “When the players arrive, our expectation is they’re not going to be in a hotel for 14 days like the current requirements are. We’ll have an exemption within this bio-secure bubble. “We’ve said every year that we’re the ‘happy slam’. But now we’re saying we’re the ‘very safe and happy slam.’” Tennis Australia’s crisis management team, which was set up to combat the difficulties in conducting 2020 Australia Open following the bushfire smoke, has come up with a business and operational plan for each of the scenarios related to 2021 edition of the Grand Slam. The first scenario was the event being held in much the same way as 2020, while the second was a tournament with limited crowds, said Tiley. ALSO READ: Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova latest to withdraw from U.S. Open “Scenario three was behind closed doors, a broadcast-only event. Scenario four was moving to another time of the year,” he added. “And scenario five is no event at all.” Tiley sounded confident of being able to allow around 400,000 fans to Melbourne Park in 2021 – which is around half the number that attended 2020 Australian Open. Effective physical distancing and wearing of masks will be made mandatory. “We’ve established a strategy and an operational plan for all our fans and how they will be positioned around the site,” he said. The tournament director further said that organisers had employed ‘global experts’ to set up bio-secure bubbles and testing facilities in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne, which will also help the players to get used to the climate and train for the Grand Slam. Australian Open has been held in Melbourne since 1972 and is the primary source of revenue for Tennis Australia. The last edition had a direct economic impact of A$387 million ($277 million) on Melbourne, Tiley said. TA expects turnover and revenue from the next edition to decrease by a double-digit percentage but they would not be reducing the A$71 million prize purse. “I’m optimistic and positive that we’ll have an event and it’ll be in Melbourne,” said Tiley, adding that TA had cash reserves of A$80 million to lean on in the event the tournament had to be cancelled. “It will have some crowds and it’ll be the beginning of kind of getting back to the way we were.” (With Reuters inputs)

Australian Open 2021 organisers eye five 'bubbles', 400,000 fans and full prize money

Women’s T20 International cricket on Wednesday returns for the first time since the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as Austria host Germany in the first of five T20 internationals.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic all women’s T20I cricket had been postponed, but today sees the return after seven months when Australia defeated India in front of 86,174 fans on 8 March.

Germany – known as the Golden Eagles - ranked 27th&nbsp;in the ICC Women’s T20I Rankings will be looking to gain points as they face 50th&nbsp;placed Austria in the battle to move up the rankings.

The Golden Eagles last played a T20I against Oman in February as part of a 4-0 series clean sweep. Austria will be playing for the first time since their quadrangular series a year ago which included France, Jersey and Norway.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-raina-among-other-csk-players-to-reach-chennai-by-august-15-319774" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15</a>

With just under 10,000 women and girls participating in cricket in Germany in 2019 the women’s game is growing with overall female participation increasing 155% since 2016.

Anuradha Doddaballapur, Germany captain said: “First up I'd like to thank everyone at Austria cricket for hosting us despite the current circumstances. We are excited to take the field again after a seemingly long break. The girls have worked hard in the last few months to stay fit and to up their skills, so I am confident we will put on a good show. We look forward to some exciting games against Austria whom we haven't faced in T20 cricket in a long time.”

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-sheldon-cottrell-on-ipl-2020-kings-xi-punjab-and-more-319732" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Sheldon Cottrell on IPL 2020, Kings XI Punjab and more</a>&nbsp;

Andrea Mae Zepeda, Austria captain said: “The team is really excited, and we are looking forward to some competitive cricket in Europe after months of lockdown due to Covid-19.&nbsp; Some teams could not take part in this tournament due to travel restrictions, but we are happy those restrictions have been eased between Austria and Germany and we are able to get some international cricket this year.”

<h2>The fixtures for the five match T20 International series is as follows:</h2>

12 August – Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 12:00CET 
13 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 11:00CET 
13 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 15:30CET 
14 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 11:00CET 
15 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 10:00CET

Women’s T20 International cricket on Wednesday returns for the first time since the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as Austria host Germany in the first of five T20 internationals.

Women’s T20 International cricket on Wednesday returns for the first time since the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as Austria host Germany in the first of five T20 internationals. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic all women’s T20I cricket had been postponed, but today sees the return after seven months when Australia defeated India in front of 86,174 fans on 8 March. Germany – known as the Golden Eagles - ranked 27th in the ICC Women’s T20I Rankings will be looking to gain points as they face 50th placed Austria in the battle to move up the rankings. The Golden Eagles last played a T20I against Oman in February as part of a 4-0 series clean sweep. Austria will be playing for the first time since their quadrangular series a year ago which included France, Jersey and Norway. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15 With just under 10,000 women and girls participating in cricket in Germany in 2019 the women’s game is growing with overall female participation increasing 155% since 2016. Anuradha Doddaballapur, Germany captain said: “First up I'd like to thank everyone at Austria cricket for hosting us despite the current circumstances. We are excited to take the field again after a seemingly long break. The girls have worked hard in the last few months to stay fit and to up their skills, so I am confident we will put on a good show. We look forward to some exciting games against Austria whom we haven't faced in T20 cricket in a long time.” ALSO WATCH: WION Exclusive: Sheldon Cottrell on IPL 2020, Kings XI Punjab and more Andrea Mae Zepeda, Austria captain said: “The team is really excited, and we are looking forward to some competitive cricket in Europe after months of lockdown due to Covid-19. Some teams could not take part in this tournament due to travel restrictions, but we are happy those restrictions have been eased between Austria and Germany and we are able to get some international cricket this year.” The fixtures for the five match T20 International series is as follows: 12 August – Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 12:00CET 13 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 11:00CET 13 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 15:30CET 14 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 11:00CET 15 August - Austria v Germany, Seebarn Cricket Ground, Austria – 10:00CET

Women's T20I cricket returns for the first time since International Women's Day

Ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

Goretzka said thousands of players have tried to answer the question but only few have been able to curb the extraordinary talent of Messi while adding it is only possible if team works on it collectively.

"Thousands of people before me have tried to answer this question," Goretzka replied Tuesday in Lisbon when asked how to stop Messi.

"It is nice - after playing against (Juventus star Cristiano) Ronaldo a few times - to play the other formative player of the last decade.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-eight-kicks-off-as-psg-and-atalanta-clash-in-lisbon-319906" hreflang="en">Champions League 'Final Eight' kicks off as PSG and Atalanta clash in Lisbon</a>

"That can only be done collectively," the 25-year-old central midfielder said of Messi, "because he is a gifted footballer".

"I don't know how, but we have to force our game on them."

Messi, who has 31 goals this season, is looking to win his fifth Champions League with Barcelona but have to face a rampant, treble-chasing Bayern Munich, who have won all their 13 matches since the COVID-19 lockdown restart.

Their sensational form was underlined when Robert Lewandowski netted twice in their second-leg round of 15 rout against Chelsea as the won 7-1 on aggregate. Lewandowski has scored more than 50 goals this season in all competitions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-quarter-finals-guide-319793" hreflang="en">Champions League quarter-finals guide</a>

Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eight consecutive Bundesliga title while also lifting the German Cup.

However, Goretzka is of the view that Bayern are the real test. "There is no easy way now. We are here in the sun in Portugal and are preparing for a knockout game in the Champions League," he said.

"We're really up for it. Knockout matches are great."

"At the moment, we're playing as a unit, in addition to the quality of the individual players. We have a clear plan in hand and our intensity without the ball can make the difference."&nbsp;

But he admitted being wary of Arturo Vidal, Barca's ex-Bayern midfielder.

"I got to know him for a few weeks and played against him many times. He has a first-class mentality with amazing fitness," added Goretzka.

"I noticed that during fitness tests - which I took next to him - he can go beyond the pain threshold." 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi.

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi. Goretzka said thousands of players have tried to answer the question but only few have been able to curb the extraordinary talent of Messi while adding it is only possible if team works on it collectively. "Thousands of people before me have tried to answer this question," Goretzka replied Tuesday in Lisbon when asked how to stop Messi. "It is nice - after playing against (Juventus star Cristiano) Ronaldo a few times - to play the other formative player of the last decade. ALSO READ: Champions League 'Final Eight' kicks off as PSG and Atalanta clash in Lisbon "That can only be done collectively," the 25-year-old central midfielder said of Messi, "because he is a gifted footballer". "I don't know how, but we have to force our game on them." Messi, who has 31 goals this season, is looking to win his fifth Champions League with Barcelona but have to face a rampant, treble-chasing Bayern Munich, who have won all their 13 matches since the COVID-19 lockdown restart. Their sensational form was underlined when Robert Lewandowski netted twice in their second-leg round of 15 rout against Chelsea as the won 7-1 on aggregate. Lewandowski has scored more than 50 goals this season in all competitions. ALSO READ: Champions League quarter-finals guide Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eight consecutive Bundesliga title while also lifting the German Cup. However, Goretzka is of the view that Bayern are the real test. "There is no easy way now. We are here in the sun in Portugal and are preparing for a knockout game in the Champions League," he said. "We're really up for it. Knockout matches are great." "At the moment, we're playing as a unit, in addition to the quality of the individual players. We have a clear plan in hand and our intensity without the ball can make the difference." But he admitted being wary of Arturo Vidal, Barca's ex-Bayern midfielder. "I got to know him for a few weeks and played against him many times. He has a first-class mentality with amazing fitness," added Goretzka. "I noticed that during fitness tests - which I took next to him - he can go beyond the pain threshold."

How to stop Lionel Messi? Bayern's Leon Goretzka opines

Asia's upcoming qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup football have been postponed to next year because of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Wednesday.

No new dates were announced for the games, which were due to take place over four match days around the region in October and November.

FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation said the matches were postponed "with the aim of protecting the health and safety of all participants".

"FIFA and the AFC will continue to work together to closely monitor the situation in the region and to identify new dates for the respective qualifying matches," they said in a joint statement.

Asia's World Cup qualifiers are just one example of the havoc COVID-19 has caused in international sport. No games have been played since November, with four match days missed already this year.

The games also double as qualifiers for the 2023 Asian Cup in China.

Asia's upcoming qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup football have been postponed to next year because of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Wednesday.

Asia's upcoming qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup football have been postponed to next year because of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said on Wednesday. No new dates were announced for the games, which were due to take place over four match days around the region in October and November. FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation said the matches were postponed "with the aim of protecting the health and safety of all participants". "FIFA and the AFC will continue to work together to closely monitor the situation in the region and to identify new dates for the respective qualifying matches," they said in a joint statement. Asia's World Cup qualifiers are just one example of the havoc COVID-19 has caused in international sport. No games have been played since November, with four match days missed already this year. The games also double as qualifiers for the 2023 Asian Cup in China.

Asia's World Cup football qualifiers postponed over coronavirus

Serena Williams on Tuesday returned to the tennis court after a six-month COVID-19 break to make a winning return by defeating Bernarda Pera in straight sets at the WTA Top Seed tournament in Kentucky.

WTA Top Seed Open, which is being played behind closed doors, witnessed the return of legendary Serena, who had not played a competitive game since the Fed Cup appearance in February. She came from behind to defeat American world no. 60 Pera 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in two hours and 15 minutes at the Top Seed Tennis Club in Lexington.

Serena, after winning the match, revealed that the empty surroundings had suited her game while adding she didn’t mind it at all.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-champion-svetlana-kuznetsova-latest-to-withdraw-from-us-open-319679" hreflang="en">Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova latest to withdraw from U.S. Open</a>

"It was a really calm atmosphere, it was really chill," Williams said.&nbsp;

"I can't say I disliked it. I didn't mind it at all. I've been through so many things in my career and this was totally different. I think I won today because I was calm for once in my career.&nbsp;

"Kind of reminds me of junior days. Something nostalgic about that. I kind of enjoyed it."

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion was on the verge of an early exit in the second set, but came back strong after going 0-40 down at 4-4 before winning the set.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slim-to-none-nick-kyrgios-unlikely-for-french-open-2020-318565" hreflang="en">'Slim to none' - Nick Kyrgios unlikely for French Open 2020</a>

"I just knew I could do better," Williams said. "It was an interesting game. I just had to get used to her game a little bit. She played really well."

Serena will next play the winner of sister Venus Williams vs Victoria Azarenka, who lock horns later on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This week’s WTA tournament is the first tennis event to be staged in the United States since the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown the sport earlier this year. 
&nbsp;

Serena Williams on Tuesday returned to the tennis court after a six-month COVID-19 break to make a winning return by defeating Bernarda Pera in straight sets at the WTA Top Seed tournament in Kentucky.

Serena Williams on Tuesday returned to the tennis court after a six-month COVID-19 break to make a winning return by defeating Bernarda Pera in straight sets at the WTA Top Seed tournament in Kentucky. WTA Top Seed Open, which is being played behind closed doors, witnessed the return of legendary Serena, who had not played a competitive game since the Fed Cup appearance in February. She came from behind to defeat American world no. 60 Pera 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in two hours and 15 minutes at the Top Seed Tennis Club in Lexington. Serena, after winning the match, revealed that the empty surroundings had suited her game while adding she didn’t mind it at all. ALSO READ: Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova latest to withdraw from U.S. Open "It was a really calm atmosphere, it was really chill," Williams said. "I can't say I disliked it. I didn't mind it at all. I've been through so many things in my career and this was totally different. I think I won today because I was calm for once in my career. "Kind of reminds me of junior days. Something nostalgic about that. I kind of enjoyed it." The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion was on the verge of an early exit in the second set, but came back strong after going 0-40 down at 4-4 before winning the set. ALSO READ: 'Slim to none' - Nick Kyrgios unlikely for French Open 2020 "I just knew I could do better," Williams said. "It was an interesting game. I just had to get used to her game a little bit. She played really well." Serena will next play the winner of sister Venus Williams vs Victoria Azarenka, who lock horns later on Tuesday. This week’s WTA tournament is the first tennis event to be staged in the United States since the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown the sport earlier this year.

Lexington Open: 'Calm' Serena Williams makes winning return

Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen as he tormented the Germans to lead his side into the Europa League semi-finals on Monday.

Nicolo Barella put Inter ahead after 15 minutes, driving the ball home after Lukaku’s shot was blocked, and six minutes later the Belgian got on the scoresheet when he displayed his strength by holding off defender Edmond Tapsoba before firing home.

Leverkusen winger Kai Havertz, reported to be a transfer target of Premier League club Chelsea, pulled a goal back for the Germans but it was goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky who kept them in the game with a string of fine saves.

The win sets up a semi-final against Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk or FC Basel of Switzerland, who meet on Tuesday

After scoring what proved to be the winner, Lukaku could have had a second goal when Inter were awarded a penalty for handball, but that harsh decision against Leverkusen was overturned by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

Tapsoba struggled all night to contain the physicality of 27-year-old Lukaku, who set a record by scoring in nine straight Europa League games, and in the second half the centre-back resorted to hacking the striker down on a number of occasions.

Seeking their first trophy since a 2011 Coppa Italia triumph, Inter sent on Alexis Sanchez in the second half and he had two excellent efforts blocked by last-ditch defending.

Lukaku was again denied a spot kick by VAR after an Inter player was discovered to have handled just before Christian Eriksen was bundled over in the box, and he fired a late shot wide under pressure from Tapsoba as Inter held on for victory.

Lukaku showed plenty of humility after his dominant performance, saying: “To me, the man of the match is Nicolo Barella. The way he plays football is simply incredible - maturity, quality. He is truly a great player.”

Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen as he tormented the Germans to lead his side into the Europa League semi-finals on Monday.

Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku scored the winner in a 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen as he tormented the Germans to lead his side into the Europa League semi-finals on Monday. Nicolo Barella put Inter ahead after 15 minutes, driving the ball home after Lukaku’s shot was blocked, and six minutes later the Belgian got on the scoresheet when he displayed his strength by holding off defender Edmond Tapsoba before firing home. Leverkusen winger Kai Havertz, reported to be a transfer target of Premier League club Chelsea, pulled a goal back for the Germans but it was goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky who kept them in the game with a string of fine saves. The win sets up a semi-final against Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk or FC Basel of Switzerland, who meet on Tuesday After scoring what proved to be the winner, Lukaku could have had a second goal when Inter were awarded a penalty for handball, but that harsh decision against Leverkusen was overturned by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Tapsoba struggled all night to contain the physicality of 27-year-old Lukaku, who set a record by scoring in nine straight Europa League games, and in the second half the centre-back resorted to hacking the striker down on a number of occasions. Seeking their first trophy since a 2011 Coppa Italia triumph, Inter sent on Alexis Sanchez in the second half and he had two excellent efforts blocked by last-ditch defending. Lukaku was again denied a spot kick by VAR after an Inter player was discovered to have handled just before Christian Eriksen was bundled over in the box, and he fired a late shot wide under pressure from Tapsoba as Inter held on for victory. Lukaku showed plenty of humility after his dominant performance, saying: “To me, the man of the match is Nicolo Barella. The way he plays football is simply incredible - maturity, quality. He is truly a great player.”

Livewire Lukaku leads Inter to Europa League semi-finals

Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday.

Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp moved for the 24-year-old after opting not to pay Norwich's asking price for their Northern Ireland left-back Jamal Lewis.

Tsimikas is Liverpool's first close-season signing and he told the club's website: "I'm very happy, I'm very proud to be here. For me, (it is) the biggest club in the world.

"The league here, I like a lot. I watch it on the TV and it was always one dream I had from when I was a kid to come to play in this league.

"(I want) to achieve (our) goals. To win the league again and also to win the Champions League."

Tsimikas, capped three times by Greece, made 86 appearances for Olympiakos in all competitions and has also had loan spells with Danish club Esbjerg and Dutch team Willem II.

He played 27 times in the league last season, winning the first major honour of his career as Olympiakos clinched the Greek title.

"We have watched Kostas for a long time and are really happy that he has joined us. It's the perfect news before we come back together very soon," Klopp said.

"He is a very good footballer with an attitude to win and to compete, and I really like his mentality. It fits perfectly with the mood and the desire we have in our dressing room already.

"Kostas knows from personal experience what is required to challenge and succeed domestically and in the Champions League, and he is ambitious for more, just like us."

Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday. Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield.

Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday. Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp moved for the 24-year-old after opting not to pay Norwich's asking price for their Northern Ireland left-back Jamal Lewis. Tsimikas is Liverpool's first close-season signing and he told the club's website: "I'm very happy, I'm very proud to be here. For me, (it is) the biggest club in the world. "The league here, I like a lot. I watch it on the TV and it was always one dream I had from when I was a kid to come to play in this league. "(I want) to achieve (our) goals. To win the league again and also to win the Champions League." Tsimikas, capped three times by Greece, made 86 appearances for Olympiakos in all competitions and has also had loan spells with Danish club Esbjerg and Dutch team Willem II. He played 27 times in the league last season, winning the first major honour of his career as Olympiakos clinched the Greek title. "We have watched Kostas for a long time and are really happy that he has joined us. It's the perfect news before we come back together very soon," Klopp said. "He is a very good footballer with an attitude to win and to compete, and I really like his mentality. It fits perfectly with the mood and the desire we have in our dressing room already. "Kostas knows from personal experience what is required to challenge and succeed domestically and in the Champions League, and he is ambitious for more, just like us."

Liverpool sign Greece defender Tsimikas from Olympiakos

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday.

The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports.

They spent a month behind bars before paying a $1.6 million bail and being released to house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion.

Judge Gustavo Amarilla has set a date of August 24 to hear the case against the brothers.

Prosecutors have submitted a proposal to the judge that would see Ronaldinho, 40, pay a $90,000 fine "to repair social damage" but be allowed to return home to Brazil where he would have to appear before a judge every three months for a year.

Ronaldinho denies having any knowledge the passports were fake.

His brother -- who allegedly knew about the false passports -- would have to pay a $110,000 fine and appear before a judge every three months for two years.

Prosecutors also asked for a two-year suspended prison sentence for Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager.

The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 without any issues, with Ronaldinho, 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, due to take part in event in support of disadvantaged children.

However, shortly after their arrival,&nbsp;the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents.

The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering.

Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday. The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports.

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday. The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports. They spent a month behind bars before paying a $1.6 million bail and being released to house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion. Judge Gustavo Amarilla has set a date of August 24 to hear the case against the brothers. Prosecutors have submitted a proposal to the judge that would see Ronaldinho, 40, pay a $90,000 fine "to repair social damage" but be allowed to return home to Brazil where he would have to appear before a judge every three months for a year. Ronaldinho denies having any knowledge the passports were fake. His brother -- who allegedly knew about the false passports -- would have to pay a $110,000 fine and appear before a judge every three months for two years. Prosecutors also asked for a two-year suspended prison sentence for Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager. The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 without any issues, with Ronaldinho, 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, due to take part in event in support of disadvantaged children. However, shortly after their arrival, the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents. The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering. Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

Ronaldinho set for August 24 release: judicial sources

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Portugal international notched his competition-best seventh goal of the season as United set up a semi-final clash against Sevilla or Wolves, joining Inter Milan in the last four following the Italian side's 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Dusseldorf.&nbsp;

"Third time this season we've been to the semis, every competition we've been in. Delighted we've gone through, we deserved to win tonight," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told BT Sport.

"Their keeper was fantastic, unbelievable. We hit the post a few times, there were a couple of VAR decisions against us. It could have been one of those nights that you end up with penalty shoot outs. They made it hard for us."

All games from the quarter-finals onwards in this season's Europa League are being played behind closed doors as one-off ties across four venues -- Cologne, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Gelsenkirchen -- in a unique format following a five-month interruption.

Solskjaer recalled Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Anthony Martial but the 2017 competition winners struggled early, and 18-year-old Copenhagen forward Mohamed Daramy was twice involved as the Danish underdogs threatened a creaking United backline.

Eric Bailly intervened just as Daramy attempted to stab home a bouncing cross, and the Ivorian defender was then played into trouble by Fred with Jens Stage's subsequent effort blocked.

Rashford finally tested Karl-Johan Johnsson just before the interval with a long-range shot -- the first of a multitude of saves for Copenhagen's outstanding Swedish goalkeeper.&nbsp;

Greenwood looked to have put United ahead as he drilled in via the far post moments later only for the teenager to be ruled offside following a VAR review.

He again went close early in the second half when he slammed against the upright, with Fernandes promptly smacking the opposite post with a dipping 20-yard drive.&nbsp;

The Portugal international, who scored five times in the group stage with Sporting, stung the palms of Johnsson with another hit from distance -- shortly after Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a desperation block to thwart Bryan Oviedo after a mesmerising dribble from Rasmus Falk.

<h2>- Johnsson outstanding in goal -</h2>

&nbsp;

Appearing in their first European quarter-final, and the first Danish club to reach this stage since 1997, Copenhagen continued to frustrate United as they sought a repeat of their 1-0 win when the clubs last met in the Champions League group stage in 2006.

Martial nearly won the game in normal time but again a sprawling Johnsson tipped away his curling attempt that appeared destined for the top corner.

The France striker was once more repelled by Johnsson at the start of extra time, but Martial won a penalty as United kept the attack alive and the striker was upended by Andreas Bjelland.

Fernandes blasted home from the spot on 95 minutes but Solskjaer's team were left to sweat until the end as Johnsson pulled off sensational stops from the Portuguese and substitute Juan Mata, with Victor Lindelof the third United player to strike the post.

United though ultimately ensured their 2019-20 campaign will extend into a second year, having started the season 365 days ago with a 4-0 Premier League win over Chelsea. Awaiting them on Sunday will be Sevilla -- who have won the Europa League and its precursor, the UEFA Cup, a record five times -- or domestic rivals Wolves.

Former United striker Romelu Lukaku grabbed the decisive goal for Antonio Conte's Inter against Leverkusen as the Serie A runners-up moved a step closer to adding to their titles from 1991, 1994 and 1998.

Inter struck first as Nicolo Barella guided in from the edge of the area on 15 minutes, with Lukaku bundling in a second six minutes later.

Kai Havertz reduced the deficit in possibly his final game for Leverkusen on 25 minutes after exchanging passes with fellow Germany international Kevin Volland, but Inter held on to seal their place against Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in next week's semi-final.

"The defence did a tremendous job again tonight. We are growing but we have to learn to kill games off when we have the chances to do it, and we didn't tonight," said Lukaku.

"Now we have time to recover physically and prepare for another great game. We will have to be ready."

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Portugal international notched his competition-best seventh goal of the season as United set up a semi-final clash against Sevilla or Wolves, joining Inter Milan in the last four following the Italian side's 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Dusseldorf. "Third time this season we've been to the semis, every competition we've been in. Delighted we've gone through, we deserved to win tonight," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told BT Sport. "Their keeper was fantastic, unbelievable. We hit the post a few times, there were a couple of VAR decisions against us. It could have been one of those nights that you end up with penalty shoot outs. They made it hard for us." All games from the quarter-finals onwards in this season's Europa League are being played behind closed doors as one-off ties across four venues -- Cologne, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Gelsenkirchen -- in a unique format following a five-month interruption. Solskjaer recalled Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Anthony Martial but the 2017 competition winners struggled early, and 18-year-old Copenhagen forward Mohamed Daramy was twice involved as the Danish underdogs threatened a creaking United backline. Eric Bailly intervened just as Daramy attempted to stab home a bouncing cross, and the Ivorian defender was then played into trouble by Fred with Jens Stage's subsequent effort blocked. Rashford finally tested Karl-Johan Johnsson just before the interval with a long-range shot -- the first of a multitude of saves for Copenhagen's outstanding Swedish goalkeeper. Greenwood looked to have put United ahead as he drilled in via the far post moments later only for the teenager to be ruled offside following a VAR review. He again went close early in the second half when he slammed against the upright, with Fernandes promptly smacking the opposite post with a dipping 20-yard drive. The Portugal international, who scored five times in the group stage with Sporting, stung the palms of Johnsson with another hit from distance -- shortly after Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a desperation block to thwart Bryan Oviedo after a mesmerising dribble from Rasmus Falk. - Johnsson outstanding in goal - Appearing in their first European quarter-final, and the first Danish club to reach this stage since 1997, Copenhagen continued to frustrate United as they sought a repeat of their 1-0 win when the clubs last met in the Champions League group stage in 2006. Martial nearly won the game in normal time but again a sprawling Johnsson tipped away his curling attempt that appeared destined for the top corner. The France striker was once more repelled by Johnsson at the start of extra time, but Martial won a penalty as United kept the attack alive and the striker was upended by Andreas Bjelland. Fernandes blasted home from the spot on 95 minutes but Solskjaer's team were left to sweat until the end as Johnsson pulled off sensational stops from the Portuguese and substitute Juan Mata, with Victor Lindelof the third United player to strike the post. United though ultimately ensured their 2019-20 campaign will extend into a second year, having started the season 365 days ago with a 4-0 Premier League win over Chelsea. Awaiting them on Sunday will be Sevilla -- who have won the Europa League and its precursor, the UEFA Cup, a record five times -- or domestic rivals Wolves. Former United striker Romelu Lukaku grabbed the decisive goal for Antonio Conte's Inter against Leverkusen as the Serie A runners-up moved a step closer to adding to their titles from 1991, 1994 and 1998. Inter struck first as Nicolo Barella guided in from the edge of the area on 15 minutes, with Lukaku bundling in a second six minutes later. Kai Havertz reduced the deficit in possibly his final game for Leverkusen on 25 minutes after exchanging passes with fellow Germany international Kevin Volland, but Inter held on to seal their place against Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in next week's semi-final. "The defence did a tremendous job again tonight. We are growing but we have to learn to kill games off when we have the chances to do it, and we didn't tonight," said Lukaku. "Now we have time to recover physically and prepare for another great game. We will have to be ready."

Fernandes penalty lifts Man Utd past dogged Copenhagen

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition:

<h2>- Atalanta v PSG -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT)

On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill.

However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time.

Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop.

They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem.

That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe.

This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches.

Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons.

<h2>- RB Leipzig v Atletico -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT)

Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March.&nbsp;

Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal.&nbsp;

Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February.&nbsp;

RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea.&nbsp;

The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner.&nbsp;

<h2>- Barcelona v Bayern -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT)

These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round.

Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely.

Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row.

In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else.

Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad.

The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title.

<h2>- Man City v Lyon -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT)

Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week.&nbsp;

City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23.&nbsp;

City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence.&nbsp;

Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh.&nbsp;

However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties. AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition: - Atalanta v PSG - (Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT) On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill. However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time. Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop. They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem. That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe. This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches. Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate. Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons. - RB Leipzig v Atletico - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT) Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March. Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal. Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February. RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea. The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner. - Barcelona v Bayern - (Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT) These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round. Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely. Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row. In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else. Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad. The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title. - Man City v Lyon - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT) Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week. City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23. City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence. Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh. However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

Champions League quarter-finals guide

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Subhayan Chakraborty

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.