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Back from the depths of despair Leicester City once again scaled improbable heights with a tumultuous 2-0 victory over Spanish club Sevilla to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday.

Skipper Wes Morgan&#39;s 28th minute effort and Marc Albrighton&#39;s precise shot after the break saw Craig Shakespeare&#39;s team overturn the 2-1 defeat they suffered in former manager Claudio Ranieri&#39;s final match in charge.

Sevilla missed a penalty and had Samir Nasri sent off as their hopes of a first ever quarter-final in the Champions League evaporated inside a rocking King Power Stadium.

Leicester, who are battling relegation in the Premier League, have now won all three games since Ranieri was sacked and replaced by Shakespeare.

Sevilla, who had not conceded an away goal in this season&#39;s competition, piled forward in the closing minutes but Champions League debutants Leicester held firm on a tumultuous night.

It looked ominous for Leicester in the early exchanges as Sevilla sought an away goal that would have put them in complete control of the tie.

Leicester keeper Schmeichel was forced into a great save to keep out Nasri&#39;s stinging shot after the former Manchester City player turned neatly in the box.

Sevilla struggled to find their passing rhythm though as Leicester worked tirelessly to press their opponents.

A well-organised Leicester looked increasingly dangerous from set pieces and it was from a Riyad Mahrez free kick that they took the lead with skipper Morgan bundling the ball into the Sevilla net with his thigh.

Ahead on away goals the situation played perfectly into Leicester&#39;s hands as they sat deep and broke quickly with Jamie Vardy always a threat on the counter-attack.

Sevilla began the second half with more purpose and came within a coat of paint of equalising in the 54th minute when Sergio Escudero&#39;s dipping effort from 30 metres beat Schmeichel but struck the underside of the crossbar.

It proved a pivotal moment as less than a minute later the ball dropped kindly for Marc Albrighton just inside the penalty area and he was allowed time and space to dispatch a left-foot shot past Sevilla keeper Sergio Rico.

Just when Sevilla were beginning to pin Leicester back in their own area Nasri needlessly got himself sent off after squaring up to Vardy with both players bumping foreheads.

Nasri received a second yellow card while Vardy, an irritation all night to Sevilla, was cautioned.

Sevilla were handed a lifeline almost immediately though when Schmeichel clattered into Vitolo and the referee awarded a penalty. N&#39;Zonzi was handed the task of putting Sevilla back into the tie but his weak kick was saved by Schmeichel. 
 
(Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Leicester, battling relegation in the Premier League, have now won all three games since Ranieri was sacked and replaced by Shakespeare

Back from the depths of despair Leicester City once again scaled improbable heights with a tumultuous 2-0 victory over Spanish club Sevilla to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday. Skipper Wes Morgan's 28th minute effort and Marc Albrighton's precise shot after the break saw Craig Shakespeare's team overturn the 2-1 defeat they suffered in former manager Claudio Ranieri's final match in charge. Sevilla missed a penalty and had Samir Nasri sent off as their hopes of a first ever quarter-final in the Champions League evaporated inside a rocking King Power Stadium. Leicester, who are battling relegation in the Premier League, have now won all three games since Ranieri was sacked and replaced by Shakespeare. Sevilla, who had not conceded an away goal in this season's competition, piled forward in the closing minutes but Champions League debutants Leicester held firm on a tumultuous night. It looked ominous for Leicester in the early exchanges as Sevilla sought an away goal that would have put them in complete control of the tie. Leicester keeper Schmeichel was forced into a great save to keep out Nasri's stinging shot after the former Manchester City player turned neatly in the box. Sevilla struggled to find their passing rhythm though as Leicester worked tirelessly to press their opponents. A well-organised Leicester looked increasingly dangerous from set pieces and it was from a Riyad Mahrez free kick that they took the lead with skipper Morgan bundling the ball into the Sevilla net with his thigh. Ahead on away goals the situation played perfectly into Leicester's hands as they sat deep and broke quickly with Jamie Vardy always a threat on the counter-attack. Sevilla began the second half with more purpose and came within a coat of paint of equalising in the 54th minute when Sergio Escudero's dipping effort from 30 metres beat Schmeichel but struck the underside of the crossbar. It proved a pivotal moment as less than a minute later the ball dropped kindly for Marc Albrighton just inside the penalty area and he was allowed time and space to dispatch a left-foot shot past Sevilla keeper Sergio Rico. Just when Sevilla were beginning to pin Leicester back in their own area Nasri needlessly got himself sent off after squaring up to Vardy with both players bumping foreheads. Nasri received a second yellow card while Vardy, an irritation all night to Sevilla, was cautioned. Sevilla were handed a lifeline almost immediately though when Schmeichel clattered into Vitolo and the referee awarded a penalty. N'Zonzi was handed the task of putting Sevilla back into the tie but his weak kick was saved by Schmeichel. (Reuters)

Leicester reach Champions League quarter-finals after beating Sevilla

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely to face disciplinary action after appearing to elbow Bournemouth&#39;s Tyrone Mings during Saturday&#39;s fiery 1-1 draw in the Premier League.

Mings appeared to stamp on Ibrahimovic&#39;s head with his left foot as he jumped over him late in the first half and the Swedish striker seemed to elbow him in retaliation moments later.

Ibrahimovic, who also squandered a penalty, told BBC Sport: &quot;You have the TV, you can see the images. I jump up and jump high and he (Mings) jumps into my elbow. It is not my intention to hurt someone.&quot;

Elsewhere, champions Leicester City continued their smooth adaptation to life after Claudio Ranieri by winning 3-1 at home to fellow strugglers Hull City.

Marcos Rojo put United ahead in the 23rd minute at Old Trafford, but Joshua King levelled from the spot five minutes before half-time following a foul on Marc Pugh by Phil Jones.

Adam Smith&#39;s handball gave Ibrahimovic a chance to restore United&#39;s lead from the penalty spot, but his spot-kick was brilliantly palmed away by Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc.

Victory would have taken United into the Champions League places, but they remain sixth, a position they have occupied since November.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s side could lose ground in the race for Champions League qualification later on Saturday when fifth-place Liverpool welcome fourth-place Arsenal to Anfield.

Ibrahimovic was already on a booking when he tangled with Mings, but both players avoided punishment, raising the prospect of violent conduct charges from the Football Association.

The standard punishment for violent conduct in the Premier League is a three-game ban.

United captain Wayne Rooney felt Mings&#39;s stamp had been deliberate, saying: &quot;There&#39;s no place for it and I&#39;m sure there will be punishment for it after the game.&quot;

But Mings, whose side remain 14th, said the contact with Ibrahimovic had been accidental.

&quot;I would never do that. That&#39;s not in my game,&quot; Mings said. &quot;Hard and fair is how I like to tackle, but off-the-ball stuff like that isn&#39;t part of my game.&quot;

Boro into drop zone&nbsp;

Referee Kevin Friend also sent off Bournemouth&#39;s Andy Surman for two bookable offences, although he had to be reminded by United left-back Luke Shaw that the midfielder had already been booked.

United manager Mourinho said Friend had been &quot;very good&quot;.

&quot;Who can I blame?&quot; Mourinho said. &quot;Ourselves. Nobody else. We missed big chances.&quot;

Leicester&#39;s resurgence continued as they beat Hull 3-1 to pull five points clear of the relegation zone.

The champions beat Liverpool 3-1 last Monday in their first game since the sacking of popular manager Ranieri and caretaker coach Craig Shakespeare saw them record back-to-back wins for the first time since last April.

Sam Clucas gave Hull a 14th-minute lead, but Leicester stormed back to win through strikes from Christian Fuchs and Riyad Mahrez and a Tom Huddlestone own goal.

&quot;Results give players confidence,&quot; said Shakespeare. &quot;Back-to-back wins will give confidence for the last 11 games of the season.

&quot;Everyone looked at the game against Liverpool on Monday and to get the three points under pressure was important, but to back that up with another win was vitally important.&quot;

Hull are now four points from safety and they were joined in the bottom three by Middlesbrough, who fell to two Marko Arnautovic goals in a 2-0 defeat at Stoke City.

Swansea City also pulled five points clear of the bottom three after Fernando Llorente&#39;s 92nd-minute header gave Paul Clement&#39;s improving side a precious 3-2 win at home to Burnley.

Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend struck in the second half as Sam Allardyce&#39;s Crystal Palace moved three points clear of danger with a 2-0 success at West Bromwich Albion.

Meanwhile, Manolo Gabbiadini scored his sixth goal in four games as Southampton bounced back from last weekend&#39;s League Cup final loss to United by winning 4-3 in an entertaining game at Watford.

(AFP)

Manchester United's profligacy in front of goal denied them the opportunity to move back into the top four in months

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is likely to face disciplinary action after appearing to elbow Bournemouth's Tyrone Mings during Saturday's fiery 1-1 draw in the Premier League. Mings appeared to stamp on Ibrahimovic's head with his left foot as he jumped over him late in the first half and the Swedish striker seemed to elbow him in retaliation moments later. Ibrahimovic, who also squandered a penalty, told BBC Sport: "You have the TV, you can see the images. I jump up and jump high and he (Mings) jumps into my elbow. It is not my intention to hurt someone." Elsewhere, champions Leicester City continued their smooth adaptation to life after Claudio Ranieri by winning 3-1 at home to fellow strugglers Hull City. Marcos Rojo put United ahead in the 23rd minute at Old Trafford, but Joshua King levelled from the spot five minutes before half-time following a foul on Marc Pugh by Phil Jones. Adam Smith's handball gave Ibrahimovic a chance to restore United's lead from the penalty spot, but his spot-kick was brilliantly palmed away by Bournemouth goalkeeper Artur Boruc. Victory would have taken United into the Champions League places, but they remain sixth, a position they have occupied since November. Jose Mourinho's side could lose ground in the race for Champions League qualification later on Saturday when fifth-place Liverpool welcome fourth-place Arsenal to Anfield. Ibrahimovic was already on a booking when he tangled with Mings, but both players avoided punishment, raising the prospect of violent conduct charges from the Football Association. The standard punishment for violent conduct in the Premier League is a three-game ban. United captain Wayne Rooney felt Mings's stamp had been deliberate, saying: "There's no place for it and I'm sure there will be punishment for it after the game." But Mings, whose side remain 14th, said the contact with Ibrahimovic had been accidental. "I would never do that. That's not in my game," Mings said. "Hard and fair is how I like to tackle, but off-the-ball stuff like that isn't part of my game." Boro into drop zone Referee Kevin Friend also sent off Bournemouth's Andy Surman for two bookable offences, although he had to be reminded by United left-back Luke Shaw that the midfielder had already been booked. United manager Mourinho said Friend had been "very good". "Who can I blame?" Mourinho said. "Ourselves. Nobody else. We missed big chances." Leicester's resurgence continued as they beat Hull 3-1 to pull five points clear of the relegation zone. The champions beat Liverpool 3-1 last Monday in their first game since the sacking of popular manager Ranieri and caretaker coach Craig Shakespeare saw them record back-to-back wins for the first time since last April. Sam Clucas gave Hull a 14th-minute lead, but Leicester stormed back to win through strikes from Christian Fuchs and Riyad Mahrez and a Tom Huddlestone own goal. "Results give players confidence," said Shakespeare. "Back-to-back wins will give confidence for the last 11 games of the season. "Everyone looked at the game against Liverpool on Monday and to get the three points under pressure was important, but to back that up with another win was vitally important." Hull are now four points from safety and they were joined in the bottom three by Middlesbrough, who fell to two Marko Arnautovic goals in a 2-0 defeat at Stoke City. Swansea City also pulled five points clear of the bottom three after Fernando Llorente's 92nd-minute header gave Paul Clement's improving side a precious 3-2 win at home to Burnley. Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend struck in the second half as Sam Allardyce's Crystal Palace moved three points clear of danger with a 2-0 success at West Bromwich Albion. Meanwhile, Manolo Gabbiadini scored his sixth goal in four games as Southampton bounced back from last weekend's League Cup final loss to United by winning 4-3 in an entertaining game at Watford. (AFP)

Manchester United held at home by Bournemouth, Leicester continue resurgence

Leicester City's chances of winning the Champions League this season are still less than one percent despite qualifying for the quarterfinals of the competition, according to FiveThirtyEight's Soccer Power Index (SPI)

Leicester goes through to Champions League quarter finals

A first-half penalty from Paulo Dybala helped fire Juventus into the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday after a 1-0 win sent the Serie A champions through 3-0 on aggregate.

Porto coach Nuno Espirito Santo had hailed Juve&#39;s 20-game unbeaten home run in Europe as he played down the Portuguese side&#39;s chances of overturning a 2-0 first leg defeat at the Estadio do Dragao.&nbsp;

And the 43-year-old was right not to talk up their chances.

Despite enjoying plenty of possession in a first half that saw the hosts squander a number of chances, their bid ended when right-back Maxi Pereira saw red after handling Gonzalo Higuain&#39;s goal-bound shot five minutes before the break.

Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan pointed to the spot and Argentinian playmaker Dybala stepped up to drill into the bottom-right corner as Iker Casillas dived the other way.

Juventus stretched their unbeaten home record in Europe to 21 games -- the last time they suffered a home defeat in Europe was a 2-0 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich, in the quarter-finals, in April 2013.

However, Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri warned his side must improve, whoever they are drawn against in the last eight.

&quot;We&#39;ll need a different kind of performance when we come up against better sides,&quot; he said.

&quot;In the second half, with 11 against 10, we did the opposite of what we achieved in Oporto.&quot;

Juventus won 2-0 in Portugal thanks to goals from Marko Pjaca and Dani Alves after Alex Telles was sent off on 27 minutes.

Nuno lamented his side&#39;s failure to score a &quot;deserved&quot; goal, but said: &quot;The expulsions in both games changed everything for us, and when you&#39;re playing against a big side like Juventus it becomes difficult.

&quot;They&#39;re one of the top four or five sides in Europe.&quot;

Casillas record 
 
Allegri deployed an attack-minded 4-2-3-1 formation that saw Higuain lead the Turin giants&#39; attack.

But it was Dybala, whose only previous Champions League goal this campaign came in a 4-0 win at Dinamo Zagreb last September, who had the majority of the chances.

The Argentinian had spoken on Monday of his desire to add to his tally in Europe, but fired wide twice in the opening stages as the hosts set the tone.&nbsp;

At the other end, Brazilian Francisco Soares curled directly into Gianluigi Buffon&#39;s arms, but it was one of too few opportunities for the visitors.

Mario Mandzukic&#39;s header was smothered by Spanish goalkeeper Casillas, who was making a record 175th appearance in European competition.

The imposing Croatian forward went closer with a header whistling wide of the far post from a corner, before Pereira flew to save Higuain&#39;s shot with his hand after Alex Sandro&#39;s header was parried by Casillas.&nbsp;

That left the visitors a man down and Dybala made no mistake from the spot to claim his third goal in the competition.

&quot;I felt more pressure taking the penalty against AC Milan than tonight,&quot; said Dybala, who hit a crucial, last-gasp winner in a controversial 2-1 league defeat of Milan on Friday.

&quot;I&#39;m happy with the goal, but also with the win and the fact we&#39;re through.&quot;

Juve could have had a second goal just after the restart but Casillas produced a fine reflex save at his near post to stop a wayward header by Porto midfielder Danilo.

Minutes later Buffon rushed out to close down Soares after he escaped Sandro to fire an angled shot wide of the &#39;keeper&#39;s far post.

Allegri replaced Juan Cuadrado with Pjaca for the start of the second half and the Croatian starlet saw an angled effort spin past Casillas&#39;s far post after he controlled well under pressure on the edge of the area.&nbsp;

Higuain, on 66 minutes, then fired just wide after holding off two markers in the area in what was Juve&#39;s last real chance to add to their tally.

(AFP)

Juventus stretched their unbeaten home record in Europe to 21 games

A first-half penalty from Paulo Dybala helped fire Juventus into the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday after a 1-0 win sent the Serie A champions through 3-0 on aggregate. Porto coach Nuno Espirito Santo had hailed Juve's 20-game unbeaten home run in Europe as he played down the Portuguese side's chances of overturning a 2-0 first leg defeat at the Estadio do Dragao. And the 43-year-old was right not to talk up their chances. Despite enjoying plenty of possession in a first half that saw the hosts squander a number of chances, their bid ended when right-back Maxi Pereira saw red after handling Gonzalo Higuain's goal-bound shot five minutes before the break. Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan pointed to the spot and Argentinian playmaker Dybala stepped up to drill into the bottom-right corner as Iker Casillas dived the other way. Juventus stretched their unbeaten home record in Europe to 21 games -- the last time they suffered a home defeat in Europe was a 2-0 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich, in the quarter-finals, in April 2013. However, Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri warned his side must improve, whoever they are drawn against in the last eight. "We'll need a different kind of performance when we come up against better sides," he said. "In the second half, with 11 against 10, we did the opposite of what we achieved in Oporto." Juventus won 2-0 in Portugal thanks to goals from Marko Pjaca and Dani Alves after Alex Telles was sent off on 27 minutes. Nuno lamented his side's failure to score a "deserved" goal, but said: "The expulsions in both games changed everything for us, and when you're playing against a big side like Juventus it becomes difficult. "They're one of the top four or five sides in Europe." Casillas record Allegri deployed an attack-minded 4-2-3-1 formation that saw Higuain lead the Turin giants' attack. But it was Dybala, whose only previous Champions League goal this campaign came in a 4-0 win at Dinamo Zagreb last September, who had the majority of the chances. The Argentinian had spoken on Monday of his desire to add to his tally in Europe, but fired wide twice in the opening stages as the hosts set the tone. At the other end, Brazilian Francisco Soares curled directly into Gianluigi Buffon's arms, but it was one of too few opportunities for the visitors. Mario Mandzukic's header was smothered by Spanish goalkeeper Casillas, who was making a record 175th appearance in European competition. The imposing Croatian forward went closer with a header whistling wide of the far post from a corner, before Pereira flew to save Higuain's shot with his hand after Alex Sandro's header was parried by Casillas. That left the visitors a man down and Dybala made no mistake from the spot to claim his third goal in the competition. "I felt more pressure taking the penalty against AC Milan than tonight," said Dybala, who hit a crucial, last-gasp winner in a controversial 2-1 league defeat of Milan on Friday. "I'm happy with the goal, but also with the win and the fact we're through." Juve could have had a second goal just after the restart but Casillas produced a fine reflex save at his near post to stop a wayward header by Porto midfielder Danilo. Minutes later Buffon rushed out to close down Soares after he escaped Sandro to fire an angled shot wide of the 'keeper's far post. Allegri replaced Juan Cuadrado with Pjaca for the start of the second half and the Croatian starlet saw an angled effort spin past Casillas's far post after he controlled well under pressure on the edge of the area. Higuain, on 66 minutes, then fired just wide after holding off two markers in the area in what was Juve's last real chance to add to their tally. (AFP)

Dybala fires Juventus past depleted Porto into Champions League quarter-finals

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday&#39;s 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. 
 
The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. 
 
Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. 
 
United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea&#39;s Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off.

(Reuters) 
 
 
&nbsp;

Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card

Manchester United have been charged with failing to control their players during Monday's 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat at Chelsea, the FA said. The charge relates to an incident in the 35th minute of the match at Stamford Bridge. United have until 1800 GMT on Friday to respond to the charge. Referee Michael Oliver was surrounded by several United players after Ander Herrera was sent off for a second yellow card after two ill-judged tackles on Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. United manager Jose Mourinho, returning to the club where he won seven major trophies, and Chelsea's Italian coach Antonio Conte also had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after the sending off. (Reuters)

Manchester United charged with failing to control players after FA Cup loss to Chelsea

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos struck another late winner as the European champions usurped Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Real Betis on Sunday.

Earlier, Barca boss Luis Enrique accepted his side had struggled to shrug off the euphoria of a remarkable Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain as the Spanish champions slumped to a shock 2-1 defeat at Deportivo la Coruna.

Victory for Madrid moves Real two points clear of Barcelona and with a game in hand still to come.

&quot;I would be happier if we scored two or three goals at the start,&quot; said Real coach Zinedine Zidane.

&quot;But we remain calm because we know we can score at any moment.&quot;

However, Madrid&#39;s win was mired in controversy as goalkeeper Keylor Navas was extremely lucky to avoid an early red card before making a brilliant stoppage time save to deny Antonio Sanabria.

Navas clearly cleaned out Darko Brasanac on the edge of the Madrid area as he raced from his goal after just 20 minutes, but referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz inexplicably waived play on.

The hosts didn&#39;t benefit from Navas&#39;s presence just four minutes later, though, as he bundled Sarabia&#39;s shot into his own goal having appeared to have the effort under control.

&quot;The most important thing for me is the support Keylor received from his teammates,&quot; added Zidane.

&quot;They know how important he is and in the end he made a great save to get us the three points.&quot;

Cristiano Ronaldo ensured Madrid went in level at the break as he rose unmarked to power home Marcelo&#39;s cross from close range for his 26th goal of the season.

The visitors&#39; chances of escaping with a point were dealt a huge blow when Cristiano Piccini saw a second yellow card 12 minutes from time.

And just three minutes later, fresh from scoring two vital away goals at Napoli to ease Madrid into the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday, Ramos powered home another Toni Kroos header for the winner.

Betis could still have salvaged a point, but Navas made amends for his early mistakes with a brilliant stop from Sanabria&#39;s powerful header.

Much-changed Barca flop 
 
At Riazor, a much-changed Barcelona side from the one that hammered PSG 6-1 suffered a body blow to their hopes of a third successful title with a first league defeat since October.

Joselu had fired Deportivo into a first-half lead before Luis Suarez levelled in the first minute of the second period.

However, Alex Bergantinos rose highest from a corner to seal Deportivo&#39;s first victory over Barcelona since 2008.

&quot;Obviously it was difficult. Only those that have experienced what we have this week knows what it means, but as professionals we know nothing is gifted to you,&quot; said Enrique.

Two-goal hero in midweek Neymar was one of five changes to the Barca side due to an abductor injury.

It took Deportivo 40 minutes to force Marc-Andre ter Stegen into a serious save as the German leapt to his left to brilliantly turn Joselu&#39;s volley behind.

However, from the resulting corner Ter Stegen was found wanting as he spilled Javier Mascherano&#39;s miscued clearance and Joselu was on hand to smash into an unguarded net.

Barca got off to a flyer in the second-half as Suarez lashed home a loose ball inside the area to equalise just a minute after the restart.

Enrique turned to Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic for a winner in the final half hour as Arda Turan and Andre Gomes were sacrificed.

But Barca found it difficult to create clear-cut chances against the mass ranks of Deportivo defence, whilst the hosts were always a threat on the break.

Alejandro Arribas saw his header come back off the post, but once again having survived the initial threat, Barcelona conceded from the resulting corner.

This time Bergantinos got above Jordi Alba to head into the bottom corner at the far post.

Lux made a great save to deny Suarez a second equaliser, but Deportivo held out to give their hopes of survival a huge boost as they move eight points clear of the bottom three and up to 15th.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Victory for Madrid moves Real two points clear of Barcelona and with a game in hand still to come

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos struck another late winner as the European champions usurped Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Real Betis on Sunday. Earlier, Barca boss Luis Enrique accepted his side had struggled to shrug off the euphoria of a remarkable Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain as the Spanish champions slumped to a shock 2-1 defeat at Deportivo la Coruna. Victory for Madrid moves Real two points clear of Barcelona and with a game in hand still to come. "I would be happier if we scored two or three goals at the start," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "But we remain calm because we know we can score at any moment." However, Madrid's win was mired in controversy as goalkeeper Keylor Navas was extremely lucky to avoid an early red card before making a brilliant stoppage time save to deny Antonio Sanabria. Navas clearly cleaned out Darko Brasanac on the edge of the Madrid area as he raced from his goal after just 20 minutes, but referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz inexplicably waived play on. The hosts didn't benefit from Navas's presence just four minutes later, though, as he bundled Sarabia's shot into his own goal having appeared to have the effort under control. "The most important thing for me is the support Keylor received from his teammates," added Zidane. "They know how important he is and in the end he made a great save to get us the three points." Cristiano Ronaldo ensured Madrid went in level at the break as he rose unmarked to power home Marcelo's cross from close range for his 26th goal of the season. The visitors' chances of escaping with a point were dealt a huge blow when Cristiano Piccini saw a second yellow card 12 minutes from time. And just three minutes later, fresh from scoring two vital away goals at Napoli to ease Madrid into the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday, Ramos powered home another Toni Kroos header for the winner. Betis could still have salvaged a point, but Navas made amends for his early mistakes with a brilliant stop from Sanabria's powerful header. Much-changed Barca flop At Riazor, a much-changed Barcelona side from the one that hammered PSG 6-1 suffered a body blow to their hopes of a third successful title with a first league defeat since October. Joselu had fired Deportivo into a first-half lead before Luis Suarez levelled in the first minute of the second period. However, Alex Bergantinos rose highest from a corner to seal Deportivo's first victory over Barcelona since 2008. "Obviously it was difficult. Only those that have experienced what we have this week knows what it means, but as professionals we know nothing is gifted to you," said Enrique. Two-goal hero in midweek Neymar was one of five changes to the Barca side due to an abductor injury. It took Deportivo 40 minutes to force Marc-Andre ter Stegen into a serious save as the German leapt to his left to brilliantly turn Joselu's volley behind. However, from the resulting corner Ter Stegen was found wanting as he spilled Javier Mascherano's miscued clearance and Joselu was on hand to smash into an unguarded net. Barca got off to a flyer in the second-half as Suarez lashed home a loose ball inside the area to equalise just a minute after the restart. Enrique turned to Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic for a winner in the final half hour as Arda Turan and Andre Gomes were sacrificed. But Barca found it difficult to create clear-cut chances against the mass ranks of Deportivo defence, whilst the hosts were always a threat on the break. Alejandro Arribas saw his header come back off the post, but once again having survived the initial threat, Barcelona conceded from the resulting corner. This time Bergantinos got above Jordi Alba to head into the bottom corner at the far post. Lux made a great save to deny Suarez a second equaliser, but Deportivo held out to give their hopes of survival a huge boost as they move eight points clear of the bottom three and up to 15th. (AFP)

La Liga: Ramos strikes again as Real Madrid prosper from Barca hangover

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday.

N&#39;Golo Kante&#39;s fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte&#39;s double-chasing side to break United&#39;s resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard.

Runaway Premier League leaders&#39; Chelsea&#39;s reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City.

United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot.

While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October&#39;s&nbsp;Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea&#39;s fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte.

Mourinho&#39;s frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera&#39;s sending off.

Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest.

Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois.

Livewire hazard

Much was made of United&#39;s lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho&#39;s somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford.

That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot.

United&#39;s keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic&#39;s low shot from the resulting corner.

Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands.

After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again.

When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte.

&quot;You&#39;re not special anymore,&quot; Chelsea&#39;s fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera&#39;s red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini.

United camped deep in Chelsea&#39;s half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. 
 
(Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Conte got the better of Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat Manchester United 1-0

Antonio Conte got the better of Jose Mourinho for the second time this season as Chelsea beat 10-man Manchester United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge to reach the FA Cup semi-finals on Monday. N'Golo Kante's fine 51st minute strike was enough for Conte's double-chasing side to break United's resistance after the visitors had Ander Herrera sent off after 35 minutes for a second yellow card -- both for crude fouls on Eden Hazard. Runaway Premier League leaders' Chelsea's reward was a Wembley clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while the other semi-final will be between Arsenal and Manchester City. United, who face a Europa League last 16 tie on Thursday against Russian club Rostov, were missing the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic and injured Wayne Rooney and offered little threat once Kante had beaten David de Gea with a precise low shot. While Mourinho was spared the humiliation of the 4-0 thrashing his old club dished out in October's Premier League meeting -- his first return to Stamford Bridge since being sacked last season -- he was again found wanting as Chelsea's fans delighted in chanting the name of his successor Conte. Mourinho's frustration boiled over at times and the Portuguese and Italian Conte had to be separated after an angry exchange shortly after Herrera's sending off. Chelsea dominated possession and could have scored more goals, though FA Cup holders United, who have already lifted the League Cup this season, had their moments and battled gamely despite being a man down for most of the contest. Their best chance fell to Marcus Rashford on the hour but, after leaving David Luiz and Gary Cahill trailing, he was denied by a smart save from an otherwise untroubled Thibaut Courtois. Livewire hazard Much was made of United's lack of striking options ahead of the game but Mourinho's somewhat depleted side started in confident fashion and Henrikh Mkhitaryan fired just wide in the 13th minute following a strong run by Rashford. That escape sparked Chelsea into life though, especially the livewire Hazard who was soon skipping his way past defenders to force De Gea into a great save from his deflected shot. United's keeper then did equally well to claw out Nemanja Matic's low shot from the resulting corner. Hazard was causing real alarm in the United defence and Herrera took matters into his own hands. After being harshly booked for a foul on Hazard, the Spaniard then followed that with a rash tackle that gave referee Michael Oliver little option but to reach for his pocket again. When Belgium forward Hazard went to ground again it proved too much for a furious Mourinho who raced across his technical area where he was met by an equally impassioned Conte. "You're not special anymore," Chelsea's fans sang to Mourinho, who responded by holding up three fingers to his tormentors -- his tally of Premier League titles delivered in two spells at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho reacted quickly to Herrera's red card, hauling off Mkhitaryan and sending on the combative Marouane Fellaini. United camped deep in Chelsea's half looking to frustrate their opponents but were undone six minutes after the break when Kante was given too much space and he nipped across the turf before dispatching a shot beyond the reach of De Gea. (Reuters)

Chelsea beat Manchester United to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Emre Can&#39;s superb shot guided Liverpool to a 2-1 home win over Burnley on Sunday and maintained their bid to qualify for next season&rsquo;s Champions League.

Ashley Barnes, with his club&rsquo;s first goal at Anfield since 1975, had given Burnley a deserved early lead only for Georginio Wijnaldum to equalise in first-half injury-time.

And Can struck just after the hour mark to secure victory for Liverpool, although it was a far from convincing performance by Jurgen Klopp&rsquo;s side.

German international Can collected a short pass from Divock Origi and was allowed space to unleash a right-foot shot from 25 yards which the Burnley goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, might have been expected to save before it reached the bottom left-hand corner of his net.

Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs.&nbsp;

The win moved them to within a point of third-placed Manchester City but, more significantly, saw Liverpool go five points clear of fifth-placed Arsenal.

&quot;The performance was good enough to win the game but the result is massive for us, it&#39;s the first ugly game we have won,&quot; Liverpool manager Klopp told Sky Sports. &quot;Usually when we are not that good we lose.&quot;

Meanwhile Burnley boss Sean Dyche was left bemoaning his side&#39;s lack of good fortune.

&quot;It&#39;s a tough one to take, because everyone gave a really good account of ourselves and we went up with a sublime goal,&quot; he told the BBC. &quot;We just needed a scratch of luck along the way.&quot;&nbsp;

Liverpool had gone in at the half-time interval level although it was a scoreline that even the most ardent home supporter would have admitted was harsh on Burnley.

With just two away points to their name all season -- from a still impressive tally of 31 -- Dyche&rsquo;s team opened the game aggressively and took the lead in just the seventh minute.

Right-back Matt Lowton crossed low into the area from the wing and, after Andre Gray narrowly missed making contact, Barnes slid in ahead of his marker to force the ball past Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Burnley, without a victory at Anfield since 1974, would have hoped to reach the interval without conceding an equaliser and looked well on course for that target for the majority of the half.

Unlikely equaliser

Not until the 45th minute did Liverpool enjoy a &#39;shot&#39; on target and that was actually an over-hit defensive header from Burnley&rsquo;s Joey Barton which forced Heaton into a comfortable diving save, his first of the game.

But a minute into first-half injury-time, Liverpool claimed an unlikely equaliser which raised the mood around the stadium.

Origi, starting in place of the injured Roberto Firmino, crossed from the left and Wijnaldum made a lazy attempt to control the ball, flicking out a boot and benefitting from a fortunate rebound from defender Ben Mee, before drilling home an unstoppable finish from six yards.

Even before the goal, Burnley&rsquo;s crosses from the right had caused concern, with Gray&rsquo;s chip almost finding Barnes after five minutes.

Solid at the back, Burnley also looked the more likely to score a second goal after Barnes&rsquo;s opener.

But the second half opened with Liverpool in far more determined mood, although their suspect defending always gave Burnley hope.

Barnes sent a speculative first-time shot wide soon after the restart before Liverpool finally threatened, with Joel Matip&#39;s shot from a Philippe Coutinho cross blocked

Can&rsquo;s goal was still harsh on Burnley, although the visitors almost responded just three minutes later, when Mee headed a free-kick across goal and Barnes&rsquo;s effort was blocked by Ragnar Klavan.

Both teams squandered late chances for further goals. Sadio Mane had only Heaton to beat but saw the Burnley keeper tip his 12-yard shot over the bar in the closing stages before Lowton missed a glorious opportunity to equalise, shooting wide from a scramble in the area in stoppage-time.

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs

Emre Can's superb shot guided Liverpool to a 2-1 home win over Burnley on Sunday and maintained their bid to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Ashley Barnes, with his club’s first goal at Anfield since 1975, had given Burnley a deserved early lead only for Georginio Wijnaldum to equalise in first-half injury-time. And Can struck just after the hour mark to secure victory for Liverpool, although it was a far from convincing performance by Jurgen Klopp’s side. German international Can collected a short pass from Divock Origi and was allowed space to unleash a right-foot shot from 25 yards which the Burnley goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, might have been expected to save before it reached the bottom left-hand corner of his net. Victory saw Liverpool remain fourth, still in the final Champions League place open to English clubs. The win moved them to within a point of third-placed Manchester City but, more significantly, saw Liverpool go five points clear of fifth-placed Arsenal. "The performance was good enough to win the game but the result is massive for us, it's the first ugly game we have won," Liverpool manager Klopp told Sky Sports. "Usually when we are not that good we lose." Meanwhile Burnley boss Sean Dyche was left bemoaning his side's lack of good fortune. "It's a tough one to take, because everyone gave a really good account of ourselves and we went up with a sublime goal," he told the BBC. "We just needed a scratch of luck along the way." Liverpool had gone in at the half-time interval level although it was a scoreline that even the most ardent home supporter would have admitted was harsh on Burnley. With just two away points to their name all season -- from a still impressive tally of 31 -- Dyche’s team opened the game aggressively and took the lead in just the seventh minute. Right-back Matt Lowton crossed low into the area from the wing and, after Andre Gray narrowly missed making contact, Barnes slid in ahead of his marker to force the ball past Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. Burnley, without a victory at Anfield since 1974, would have hoped to reach the interval without conceding an equaliser and looked well on course for that target for the majority of the half. Unlikely equaliser Not until the 45th minute did Liverpool enjoy a 'shot' on target and that was actually an over-hit defensive header from Burnley’s Joey Barton which forced Heaton into a comfortable diving save, his first of the game. But a minute into first-half injury-time, Liverpool claimed an unlikely equaliser which raised the mood around the stadium. Origi, starting in place of the injured Roberto Firmino, crossed from the left and Wijnaldum made a lazy attempt to control the ball, flicking out a boot and benefitting from a fortunate rebound from defender Ben Mee, before drilling home an unstoppable finish from six yards. Even before the goal, Burnley’s crosses from the right had caused concern, with Gray’s chip almost finding Barnes after five minutes. Solid at the back, Burnley also looked the more likely to score a second goal after Barnes’s opener. But the second half opened with Liverpool in far more determined mood, although their suspect defending always gave Burnley hope. Barnes sent a speculative first-time shot wide soon after the restart before Liverpool finally threatened, with Joel Matip's shot from a Philippe Coutinho cross blocked Can’s goal was still harsh on Burnley, although the visitors almost responded just three minutes later, when Mee headed a free-kick across goal and Barnes’s effort was blocked by Ragnar Klavan. Both teams squandered late chances for further goals. Sadio Mane had only Heaton to beat but saw the Burnley keeper tip his 12-yard shot over the bar in the closing stages before Lowton missed a glorious opportunity to equalise, shooting wide from a scramble in the area in stoppage-time. (AFP)

Premier League: Liverpool 2-1 Burnley

Oumar Niasse boosted Hull&#39;s chances of avoiding relegation from the Premier League as the Senegal forward inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea, while Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King&#39;s treble in a 3-2 success against West Ham.

Niasse, on loan from Everton, came off the bench to score twice in the second half at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday and Marco Silva&#39;s side are now just one point from safety.

After a tense first half, Niasse broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when he played a one-two with Abel Hernandez and drilled past Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

Niasse sealed Hull&#39;s third win over Swansea in all competitions this season with a blistering strike from inside the penalty area in the 78th minute.

Alfie Mawson&#39;s 90th minute goal was no consolation for Swansea, who have lost their last three away games and are only three points above third bottom Hull.

&quot;We got three important points, so of course I&#39;m happy,&quot; Silva said.

&quot;It was a tough game. We improved in the second half and after that we controlled the game.&quot;

At Dean Court, Bournemouth overcame two missed penalties and a late equaliser to end their nine-match winless run in all competitions.&nbsp;

King had netted with a penalty in last weekend&#39;s draw at Manchester United, but the Bournemouth striker fired wide with another spot-kick in the early stages against the Hammers following Sofiane Feghouli&#39;s foul on Charlie Daniels.

Just 48 seconds later, West Ham winger Michail Antonio marked his return from suspension with a cool finish after taking Feghouli&#39;s pass and spinning away from his marker in the 10th minute.

King made amends for his penalty howler in the 31st minute when the striker flicked the ball up in the penalty area before firing home.

Remarkably, Bournemouth missed another penalty, this one awarded for Jose Fonte&#39;s foul on March Pugh late in the first half, as Benik Afobe&#39;s effort was saved by Darren Randolph.

Perfectly placed 
 
King struck again in the 48th minute when his close-range effort from Afobe&#39;s flick-on was allowed to stand despite West Ham&#39;s appeals for handball.

West Ham&#39;s Andre Ayew tapped into an empty net from Sam Byram&#39;s 83rd minute cross, but King bagged the winner from close-range in stoppage-time to lift Bournemouth six points clear of the relegation zone.

&quot;Relief is the overwhelming feeling,&quot; Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said.

&quot;Josh King has had an outstanding season and is beginning to show true potential.&quot;

Everton improved their prospects of a Europa League berth with a 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park.

Ronald Koeman&#39;s seventh placed team are just two points behind sixth placed Manchester United after recording their fifth successive home victory.

With British boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew watching from the stands after his recent heavyweight success against David Haye, Kevin Mirallas landed the first blow for the hosts in the 39th minute.

Ross Barkley&#39;s shot was parried by Albion goalkeeper Ben Foster and Mirallas was perfectly placed to slot home.

Morgan Schneiderlin doubled Everton&#39;s lead on the stroke of half-time, the midfielder unleashing a ferocious strike for his first goal since a January move from Manchester United.

Romelu Lukaku sealed the rout with a header in the 82nd minute for his 19th league goal of the season.&nbsp;

Liverpool host Burnley on Sunday in the weekend&#39;s only other league action due to FA Cup quarter-final fixtures. 
 
(AFP)

 
&nbsp;

Niasse inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea. Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King's treble against West Ham

Oumar Niasse boosted Hull's chances of avoiding relegation from the Premier League as the Senegal forward inspired a crucial 2-1 victory over Swansea, while Bournemouth won for the first time in 2017 thanks to Josh King's treble in a 3-2 success against West Ham. Niasse, on loan from Everton, came off the bench to score twice in the second half at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday and Marco Silva's side are now just one point from safety. After a tense first half, Niasse broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when he played a one-two with Abel Hernandez and drilled past Swansea goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski. Niasse sealed Hull's third win over Swansea in all competitions this season with a blistering strike from inside the penalty area in the 78th minute. Alfie Mawson's 90th minute goal was no consolation for Swansea, who have lost their last three away games and are only three points above third bottom Hull. "We got three important points, so of course I'm happy," Silva said. "It was a tough game. We improved in the second half and after that we controlled the game." At Dean Court, Bournemouth overcame two missed penalties and a late equaliser to end their nine-match winless run in all competitions. King had netted with a penalty in last weekend's draw at Manchester United, but the Bournemouth striker fired wide with another spot-kick in the early stages against the Hammers following Sofiane Feghouli's foul on Charlie Daniels. Just 48 seconds later, West Ham winger Michail Antonio marked his return from suspension with a cool finish after taking Feghouli's pass and spinning away from his marker in the 10th minute. King made amends for his penalty howler in the 31st minute when the striker flicked the ball up in the penalty area before firing home. Remarkably, Bournemouth missed another penalty, this one awarded for Jose Fonte's foul on March Pugh late in the first half, as Benik Afobe's effort was saved by Darren Randolph. Perfectly placed King struck again in the 48th minute when his close-range effort from Afobe's flick-on was allowed to stand despite West Ham's appeals for handball. West Ham's Andre Ayew tapped into an empty net from Sam Byram's 83rd minute cross, but King bagged the winner from close-range in stoppage-time to lift Bournemouth six points clear of the relegation zone. "Relief is the overwhelming feeling," Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said. "Josh King has had an outstanding season and is beginning to show true potential." Everton improved their prospects of a Europa League berth with a 3-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Goodison Park. Ronald Koeman's seventh placed team are just two points behind sixth placed Manchester United after recording their fifth successive home victory. With British boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew watching from the stands after his recent heavyweight success against David Haye, Kevin Mirallas landed the first blow for the hosts in the 39th minute. Ross Barkley's shot was parried by Albion goalkeeper Ben Foster and Mirallas was perfectly placed to slot home. Morgan Schneiderlin doubled Everton's lead on the stroke of half-time, the midfielder unleashing a ferocious strike for his first goal since a January move from Manchester United. Romelu Lukaku sealed the rout with a header in the 82nd minute for his 19th league goal of the season. Liverpool host Burnley on Sunday in the weekend's only other league action due to FA Cup quarter-final fixtures. (AFP)

Premier League: Hull boost survival bid, Bournemouth end winless run

David Silva and Sergio Aguero scored in each half as Manchester City became the first team to reach the FA Cup semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Premier League rivals Middlesbrough on Saturday.

A dominant City cruised into the last four after Silva gave them a third-minute lead and Aguero struck in the 67th minute, with the visitors missing numerous chances to win by a bigger margin.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends as City carved open the home team&#39;s defence.

Yaya Toure fed Pablo Zabaleta on the right flank with a defence-splitting pass and the Argentine defender drove a perfect ball across the face of goal for Silva to shoot home from close range.

Middlesbrough kept getting undone on either wing as Sane and Silva gave their markers a roasting and the home team&#39;s goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a string of good saves.

Aguero hit the woodwork after another lightning raid down the right but made no mistake when he steered a first-time shot past the helpless Guzan at the near post from a fizzing low cross by Sane.

City threatened to run riot in the closing stages as acres of space opened up, but Guzan spared the home side a heavier defeat by denying Sterling and Silva.

Arsenal host non-league Lincoln City later on Saturday. 
 
(Reuters)

Pep Guardiola's attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends

David Silva and Sergio Aguero scored in each half as Manchester City became the first team to reach the FA Cup semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Premier League rivals Middlesbrough on Saturday. A dominant City cruised into the last four after Silva gave them a third-minute lead and Aguero struck in the 67th minute, with the visitors missing numerous chances to win by a bigger margin. Pep Guardiola's attacking formation, featuring Silva, Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne and Leroy Sane behind Aguero, paid instant dividends as City carved open the home team's defence. Yaya Toure fed Pablo Zabaleta on the right flank with a defence-splitting pass and the Argentine defender drove a perfect ball across the face of goal for Silva to shoot home from close range. Middlesbrough kept getting undone on either wing as Sane and Silva gave their markers a roasting and the home team's goalkeeper Brad Guzan made a string of good saves. Aguero hit the woodwork after another lightning raid down the right but made no mistake when he steered a first-time shot past the helpless Guzan at the near post from a fizzing low cross by Sane. City threatened to run riot in the closing stages as acres of space opened up, but Guzan spared the home side a heavier defeat by denying Sterling and Silva. Arsenal host non-league Lincoln City later on Saturday. (Reuters)

Manchester City ease into FA Cup semis with 2-0 win at Middlesbrough

Arsenal ended Lincoln City&#39;s historic FA Cup run and eased the pressure on Arsene Wenger with a 5-0 victory over the valiant non-league side in Saturday&#39;s quarter-finals.

After Tuesday&#39;s&nbsp;humiliating Champions League exit against Bayern Munich, Wenger had endured calls for his resignation and the Gunners boss must have breathed a sigh of relief as Arsenal avoided even greater ignominy.

A contest that should have been a mismatch given the supposed gulf in class between fifth-tier Lincoln and their illustrious opponents was actually a tense affair until first-half stoppage time when Theo Walcott put Arsenal ahead.

But even after goals from Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez, Aaron Ramsey and a Luke Waterfall own goal, the day belonged to the fifth-tier leaders, for whom the competition has generated a &pound;1.6 million ($1.9m) cash windfall.

For a club whose record signings, Dean Walling and Tony Battersby, each cost &pound;75,000 in 1997 and 1978, respectively, that is quite a sum.

The 9,000 travelling Lincoln supporters certainly brought their voices and generated more noise than the Emirates Stadium has heard during many Premier League games this season.

Almost 10 minutes had elapsed before Arsenal created an opening. Hector Bellerin slid the ball along the ground from the right-hand side but Ramsey swept his shot just wide of the post.

Four minutes later Walcott connected sweetly with a volley only for Lincoln keeper Paul Farman to plunge to his left to palm the ball on to the same upright.

Arsenal were forced into a change after 26 minutes, although if the non-league side were glad to see Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain go, the sight of German World Cup-winner Mesut Ozil coming on to replace him was less welcome.

Lincoln&#39;s compactness in defence was limiting Arsenal to very few chances.&nbsp;

Urgency 
 
And in contrast to Lincoln&#39;s collective discipline, inspired by the organisational skill of their impressive young manager Danny Cowley, it was the Arsenal players who were guilty of impetuosity in the tackle, with both Granit Xhaka and Laurent Koscielny booked for lunging challenges.

Nathan Arnold, who scored the winning goal against Ipswich Town in the third-round replay, came closest to a goal for the visitors as the half-hour approached.

Cutting inside Kieran Gibbs, he forced Petr Cech to fling himself to his right for a fine save.

Ramsey sent a stabbed effort over the bar as half-time approached, but just as it seemed that Lincoln would deservedly reach the interval on level terms, the Premier League side struck.

Farman had difficulty in dealing with an Ozil cross and from the resulting corner a goalmouth melee ended with Gibbs setting up Walcott to put Arsenal ahead with a deflected effort.

Wenger&#39;s side re-emerged with a sense of urgency that had been largely absent in the first half.

The goal that effectively sealed Arsenal&#39;s passage to a Wembley semi-final arrived after 53 minutes.

Bellerin swapped passes with Sanchez before laying the ball back for Giroud to sidefoot home.

Five minutes later, Arsenal led 3-0. Gibbs drove in a low hard cross that was deflected into his own net by the unfortunate Waterfall.&nbsp;

Sanchez then made it four after 73 minutes, riding two challenges before curling home beautifully.

The scoreline began to look unjustifiably one-sided when Ramsey walked the ball home following a Sanchez cross.

At the other end, midfielder Alan Power forced a save from Cech as Lincoln sought the most glorious of consolation goals.

Arsenal progressed to Wenger&#39;s relief, but it is Lincoln who will take home all of the memories.

(AFP)

The win eased the pressure on Arsene Wenger who endured calls for resignation after the humiliating Champions League exit against Bayern

Arsenal ended Lincoln City's historic FA Cup run and eased the pressure on Arsene Wenger with a 5-0 victory over the valiant non-league side in Saturday's quarter-finals. After Tuesday's humiliating Champions League exit against Bayern Munich, Wenger had endured calls for his resignation and the Gunners boss must have breathed a sigh of relief as Arsenal avoided even greater ignominy. A contest that should have been a mismatch given the supposed gulf in class between fifth-tier Lincoln and their illustrious opponents was actually a tense affair until first-half stoppage time when Theo Walcott put Arsenal ahead. But even after goals from Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez, Aaron Ramsey and a Luke Waterfall own goal, the day belonged to the fifth-tier leaders, for whom the competition has generated a £1.6 million ($1.9m) cash windfall. For a club whose record signings, Dean Walling and Tony Battersby, each cost £75,000 in 1997 and 1978, respectively, that is quite a sum. The 9,000 travelling Lincoln supporters certainly brought their voices and generated more noise than the Emirates Stadium has heard during many Premier League games this season. Almost 10 minutes had elapsed before Arsenal created an opening. Hector Bellerin slid the ball along the ground from the right-hand side but Ramsey swept his shot just wide of the post. Four minutes later Walcott connected sweetly with a volley only for Lincoln keeper Paul Farman to plunge to his left to palm the ball on to the same upright. Arsenal were forced into a change after 26 minutes, although if the non-league side were glad to see Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain go, the sight of German World Cup-winner Mesut Ozil coming on to replace him was less welcome. Lincoln's compactness in defence was limiting Arsenal to very few chances. Urgency And in contrast to Lincoln's collective discipline, inspired by the organisational skill of their impressive young manager Danny Cowley, it was the Arsenal players who were guilty of impetuosity in the tackle, with both Granit Xhaka and Laurent Koscielny booked for lunging challenges. Nathan Arnold, who scored the winning goal against Ipswich Town in the third-round replay, came closest to a goal for the visitors as the half-hour approached. Cutting inside Kieran Gibbs, he forced Petr Cech to fling himself to his right for a fine save. Ramsey sent a stabbed effort over the bar as half-time approached, but just as it seemed that Lincoln would deservedly reach the interval on level terms, the Premier League side struck. Farman had difficulty in dealing with an Ozil cross and from the resulting corner a goalmouth melee ended with Gibbs setting up Walcott to put Arsenal ahead with a deflected effort. Wenger's side re-emerged with a sense of urgency that had been largely absent in the first half. The goal that effectively sealed Arsenal's passage to a Wembley semi-final arrived after 53 minutes. Bellerin swapped passes with Sanchez before laying the ball back for Giroud to sidefoot home. Five minutes later, Arsenal led 3-0. Gibbs drove in a low hard cross that was deflected into his own net by the unfortunate Waterfall. Sanchez then made it four after 73 minutes, riding two challenges before curling home beautifully. The scoreline began to look unjustifiably one-sided when Ramsey walked the ball home following a Sanchez cross. At the other end, midfielder Alan Power forced a save from Cech as Lincoln sought the most glorious of consolation goals. Arsenal progressed to Wenger's relief, but it is Lincoln who will take home all of the memories. (AFP)

Arsenal 5-0 Lincoln City, move to FA Cup semi-finals

Henrikh Mkhitaryan bagged a precious away goal as Manchester United came away from their trip to Russia with a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Rostov on Thursday.

On an awful pitch, the state of which had United manager Jose Mourinho fuming on the eve of the game, Mkhitaryan turned in the opener 10 minutes before half-time.

But Aleksandr Bukharov levelled for the home side in the 53rd minute at the Olimp 2 stadium, keeping Rostov hopes alive ahead of next week&#39;s return at Old Trafford.

The build-up to the match had been overshadowed by United&#39;s complaints about the playing surface and about concerns travelling fans could be targeted by Russian hooligans.

However, the evening passed off without incident inside the ground, where a little over 200 United supporters were in attendance along with ex-United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz, who is these days in charge of Iran.

They saw the visitors extend their recent unbeaten run in all competitions to 10 games as Mourinho made seven changes to the team held by Bournemouth last weekend.

One of those brought back into the starting line-up was Mkhitaryan, and it was he who swept United in front in the 35th minute from close range after good build-up play involving Marouane Fellaini and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Nevertheless Rostov, who are seventh in the Russian Premier League and had already won at home to Ajax and Bayern Munich in Europe this season, drew level thanks to a fine goal shortly after the break.

Timofei Kalachev delivered a ball over the top that was controlled on the chest inside the box and then fired home by Bukharov to secure the draw.

Elsewhere, FC Copenhagen beat Ajax 2-1 in Denmark with Rasmus Falk putting the hosts in front inside a minute.

Danish prodigy Kasper Dolberg levelled for the Dutch giants but Andreas Cornelius headed in the winner for Copenhagen on the hour.

Anderlecht beat APOEL 1-0 in Cyprus with a Nicolae Stanciu goal.

(AFP)

Henrikh Mkhitaryan opened the scoring for the visitors before Rostov's Aleksandr Bukharov levelled the match after half-time

Henrikh Mkhitaryan bagged a precious away goal as Manchester United came away from their trip to Russia with a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie against Rostov on Thursday. On an awful pitch, the state of which had United manager Jose Mourinho fuming on the eve of the game, Mkhitaryan turned in the opener 10 minutes before half-time. But Aleksandr Bukharov levelled for the home side in the 53rd minute at the Olimp 2 stadium, keeping Rostov hopes alive ahead of next week's return at Old Trafford. The build-up to the match had been overshadowed by United's complaints about the playing surface and about concerns travelling fans could be targeted by Russian hooligans. However, the evening passed off without incident inside the ground, where a little over 200 United supporters were in attendance along with ex-United assistant boss Carlos Queiroz, who is these days in charge of Iran. They saw the visitors extend their recent unbeaten run in all competitions to 10 games as Mourinho made seven changes to the team held by Bournemouth last weekend. One of those brought back into the starting line-up was Mkhitaryan, and it was he who swept United in front in the 35th minute from close range after good build-up play involving Marouane Fellaini and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Nevertheless Rostov, who are seventh in the Russian Premier League and had already won at home to Ajax and Bayern Munich in Europe this season, drew level thanks to a fine goal shortly after the break. Timofei Kalachev delivered a ball over the top that was controlled on the chest inside the box and then fired home by Bukharov to secure the draw. Elsewhere, FC Copenhagen beat Ajax 2-1 in Denmark with Rasmus Falk putting the hosts in front inside a minute. Danish prodigy Kasper Dolberg levelled for the Dutch giants but Andreas Cornelius headed in the winner for Copenhagen on the hour. Anderlecht beat APOEL 1-0 in Cyprus with a Nicolae Stanciu goal. (AFP)

Europa League: ManU come away with draw against Rostov

Barcelona scored three goals in seven late minutes to pull off a stunning comeback against French champions&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain to reach the quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Sergi Roberto&#39;s last-gasp goal meant Barcelona thrashed PSG 6-1 to memorably overcome a 0-4 deficit.

Despite Luis Suarez&#39;s early opener, a Layvin Kurzawa own goal and Lionel Messi&#39;s penalty, Barca, who lost the first leg 4-0, looked down and out when Edison Cavani volleyed home what seemed to be the vital away goal for PSG.

However, Neymar restored Barca&#39;s belief as he firstly fired home a sensational free-kick two minutes from time and then converted from the penalty spot.

And Roberto capped the biggest comeback in Champions League history when he stretched to turn home Neymar&#39;s dinked cross to the delight of a near 100,000 at a rocking Camp Nou, making the score 6-5 on aggregate.

Barca also enter the record books by reaching the quarter-finals for a 10th straight season.

Outgoing Barca coach Luis Enrique warned the French champions on Tuesday that his side were capable of scoring six and they needed the full 95 minutes to pull of a miracle revival.

No side had ever come back from a 4-0 first leg deficit in the Champions League, but after much pre-match hype of a historic turnaround, Barca truly believed when Suarez opened the scoring after just three minutes.

The PSG defence was stationary as Marquinhos headed Rafinha&#39;s cross high into the air and Suarez nipped in ahead of the flapping goalkeeper Kevin Trapp to nod in despite Thomas Meunier&#39;s best efforts to clear off the line.

In a role reversal from the first leg, Barca&#39;s high pressing wasn&#39;t allowing the visitors any restbite, whilst PSG failed to take advantage of the huge spaces in behind the Barca defence on the counter-attack.

Neymar was inches away from delivering a spectacular second when he drilled just wide from well outside the area before Trapp easily collected a Suarez effort from an acute angle.

However, Barca&#39;s hopes were further raised five minutes before the break thanks to more shambolic PSG defending.

Andres Iniesta reached Suarez&#39;s hopeful through ball and his backheel provoked Kurzawa into shanking the ball into his own net on his weaker right foot.

The second period started just as the first ended as Barca edged closer to the history books when Neymar was clipped by the prone Meunier and, after consultation with one of his assistants, German referee Deniz Aytekin pointed to the spot.

Messi made no mistake with the penalty to rifle home his 11th Champions League goal of the season.

Only when 3-0 down did PSG begin to come out in search of the crucial away goal and were nearly rewarded immediately as Meunier got to the by-line and his low cross was turned onto the post by Cavani.

The Uruguayan had to wait just 10 minutes more, though, to find the net.

Kurzawa made amends for his earlier error by heading down a free-kick and Cavani connected sweetly on the volley to register his 38th and seemingly most important goal of the season.

PSG were then to rue to huge missed chances to put the tie completely beyond Barca.

Firstly, Cavani should have had his second as he was played in by Draxler, but this time Marc-Andre ter Stegen stood up to block with an outstretched leg.

PSG&#39;s two-goal hero from the first Angel di Maria had started on the bench, but the former Real Madrid man should have rubbed salt in Barca&#39;s wounds five minutes from time when he somehow skewed wide with just Ter Stegen to beat.

Just when Barca looked down and out Neymar restored hope when he curled home a sensational free-kick high into the top corner.

And as the match entered stoppage time, Barca were awarded a second controversial penalty when Suarez tumbled under a challenge form Marquinhos.

Neymar this time took responsibility to send Trapp the wrong way.

And the Brazilian also showed a cool head amongst a mad final minute when he cut inside before chipping into the box for substitute Roberto to extend his right leg just enough to beat Trapp and leave PSG floored.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Trailing 0-4 after first leg against Paris Saint-Germain, Neymar-inspired Barca pumped in 3 late goals to propel his team to the last eight

Barcelona scored three goals in seven late minutes to pull off a stunning comeback against French champions Paris Saint-Germain to reach the quarter-finals on Wednesday. Sergi Roberto's last-gasp goal meant Barcelona thrashed PSG 6-1 to memorably overcome a 0-4 deficit. Despite Luis Suarez's early opener, a Layvin Kurzawa own goal and Lionel Messi's penalty, Barca, who lost the first leg 4-0, looked down and out when Edison Cavani volleyed home what seemed to be the vital away goal for PSG. However, Neymar restored Barca's belief as he firstly fired home a sensational free-kick two minutes from time and then converted from the penalty spot. And Roberto capped the biggest comeback in Champions League history when he stretched to turn home Neymar's dinked cross to the delight of a near 100,000 at a rocking Camp Nou, making the score 6-5 on aggregate. Barca also enter the record books by reaching the quarter-finals for a 10th straight season. Outgoing Barca coach Luis Enrique warned the French champions on Tuesday that his side were capable of scoring six and they needed the full 95 minutes to pull of a miracle revival. No side had ever come back from a 4-0 first leg deficit in the Champions League, but after much pre-match hype of a historic turnaround, Barca truly believed when Suarez opened the scoring after just three minutes. The PSG defence was stationary as Marquinhos headed Rafinha's cross high into the air and Suarez nipped in ahead of the flapping goalkeeper Kevin Trapp to nod in despite Thomas Meunier's best efforts to clear off the line. In a role reversal from the first leg, Barca's high pressing wasn't allowing the visitors any restbite, whilst PSG failed to take advantage of the huge spaces in behind the Barca defence on the counter-attack. Neymar was inches away from delivering a spectacular second when he drilled just wide from well outside the area before Trapp easily collected a Suarez effort from an acute angle. However, Barca's hopes were further raised five minutes before the break thanks to more shambolic PSG defending. Andres Iniesta reached Suarez's hopeful through ball and his backheel provoked Kurzawa into shanking the ball into his own net on his weaker right foot. The second period started just as the first ended as Barca edged closer to the history books when Neymar was clipped by the prone Meunier and, after consultation with one of his assistants, German referee Deniz Aytekin pointed to the spot. Messi made no mistake with the penalty to rifle home his 11th Champions League goal of the season. Only when 3-0 down did PSG begin to come out in search of the crucial away goal and were nearly rewarded immediately as Meunier got to the by-line and his low cross was turned onto the post by Cavani. The Uruguayan had to wait just 10 minutes more, though, to find the net. Kurzawa made amends for his earlier error by heading down a free-kick and Cavani connected sweetly on the volley to register his 38th and seemingly most important goal of the season. PSG were then to rue to huge missed chances to put the tie completely beyond Barca. Firstly, Cavani should have had his second as he was played in by Draxler, but this time Marc-Andre ter Stegen stood up to block with an outstretched leg. PSG's two-goal hero from the first Angel di Maria had started on the bench, but the former Real Madrid man should have rubbed salt in Barca's wounds five minutes from time when he somehow skewed wide with just Ter Stegen to beat. Just when Barca looked down and out Neymar restored hope when he curled home a sensational free-kick high into the top corner. And as the match entered stoppage time, Barca were awarded a second controversial penalty when Suarez tumbled under a challenge form Marquinhos. Neymar this time took responsibility to send Trapp the wrong way. And the Brazilian also showed a cool head amongst a mad final minute when he cut inside before chipping into the box for substitute Roberto to extend his right leg just enough to beat Trapp and leave PSG floored. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Barcelona barnstormer spurs stunning comeback against PSG

Barcelona became the first team in history to overturn a 4 goal deficit from the first leg?in the knock-out stage of champions league competition

Barcelona creates history

A hat-trick by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Christian Pulisic&#39;s dazzling display fired Borussia Dortmund into the Champions League quarter-finals with a 4-0 thrashing of Benfica on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The result saw Dortmund win the round-of-16 tie 4-1 on aggregate after Aubameyang&#39;s early goal cancelled out Borussia&#39;s 1-0 defeat in Lisbon last month.

The Gabon hot-shot has now scored seven times in his last three games and has seven Champions League goals in as many matches this season.

He is on 28 goals for the season as Dortmund reached the last eight in Europe for the first time since 2013/14.

But it fell to US international Pulisic, who only turns 19 in September, to net the Germans&#39; crucial second on 59 minutes, which put Dortmund ahead for the first time on aggregate.

Pulisic, in for injured Germany winger Marco Reus, claimed his first Champions League goal and set up Aubameyang&#39;s opening goal in an impressive all-round display.

After Kostas Mitroglou sealed Benfica&#39;s 1-0 first-leg victory, Dortmund took just four minutes to cancel out the advantage.

Ousmane Dembele&#39;s corner was flicked on by Pulisic to Aubameyang, who headed home at the far post to delight the sell-out Signal Iduna Park crowd.

It was redemption for the Gabon striker, who had a night to forget in the first leg, missing four clear chances including a penalty in Lisbon.

After a strong start from the hosts, Benfica clawed their way back with captain Luisao heading straight at Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Burki from a free-kick midway through the half.

Dembele showed his youth, needlessly picking up a booking from English referee Martin Atkinson late in the first half for bitterly complaining after conceding a free-kick with a push on Andreas Samaris.

Benfica grew in confidence as the half wore on and Dortmund&#39;s defence wobbled, but it finished 1-0 at the break.

Dortmund had a big let-off soon after when Lukasz Piszczek failed with a clearance, which Franco Cervi snapped up on the edge of the box, but his shot was blocked.

Aubameyang then squandered three golden chances at close range before Pulisic finally got the breakthrough.

The US starlet chipped his shot over the advancing Ederson on 59 minutes after Piszczek&#39;s superb pass into the area.

Aubameyang grabbed his second just two minutes later when he stabbed home Marcel Schmelzer&#39;s pass.

He hit his third goal of the night on 85 minutes when Erik Durm&#39;s run and cross from the right handed him a simple tap-in.

(AFP)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's goals helped his side overcome a 0-1 disadvantage at their home ground

A hat-trick by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Christian Pulisic's dazzling display fired Borussia Dortmund into the Champions League quarter-finals with a 4-0 thrashing of Benfica on Wednesday. The result saw Dortmund win the round-of-16 tie 4-1 on aggregate after Aubameyang's early goal cancelled out Borussia's 1-0 defeat in Lisbon last month. The Gabon hot-shot has now scored seven times in his last three games and has seven Champions League goals in as many matches this season. He is on 28 goals for the season as Dortmund reached the last eight in Europe for the first time since 2013/14. But it fell to US international Pulisic, who only turns 19 in September, to net the Germans' crucial second on 59 minutes, which put Dortmund ahead for the first time on aggregate. Pulisic, in for injured Germany winger Marco Reus, claimed his first Champions League goal and set up Aubameyang's opening goal in an impressive all-round display. After Kostas Mitroglou sealed Benfica's 1-0 first-leg victory, Dortmund took just four minutes to cancel out the advantage. Ousmane Dembele's corner was flicked on by Pulisic to Aubameyang, who headed home at the far post to delight the sell-out Signal Iduna Park crowd. It was redemption for the Gabon striker, who had a night to forget in the first leg, missing four clear chances including a penalty in Lisbon. After a strong start from the hosts, Benfica clawed their way back with captain Luisao heading straight at Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Burki from a free-kick midway through the half. Dembele showed his youth, needlessly picking up a booking from English referee Martin Atkinson late in the first half for bitterly complaining after conceding a free-kick with a push on Andreas Samaris. Benfica grew in confidence as the half wore on and Dortmund's defence wobbled, but it finished 1-0 at the break. Dortmund had a big let-off soon after when Lukasz Piszczek failed with a clearance, which Franco Cervi snapped up on the edge of the box, but his shot was blocked. Aubameyang then squandered three golden chances at close range before Pulisic finally got the breakthrough. The US starlet chipped his shot over the advancing Ederson on 59 minutes after Piszczek's superb pass into the area. Aubameyang grabbed his second just two minutes later when he stabbed home Marcel Schmelzer's pass. He hit his third goal of the night on 85 minutes when Erik Durm's run and cross from the right handed him a simple tap-in. (AFP)

Aubameyang scores hat-trick to help Dortmund flip deficit against Benfica

Eden Hazard&#39;s dazzling goal inspired Chelsea to a 2-1 victory at West Ham United on Monday as Antonio Conte&#39;s side restored their 10-point advantage in the Premier League.

Hazard finished off a lightning counter-attack in the 25th minute and Diego Costa&#39;s 49th league goal for Chelsea rubber-stamped victory before Manuel Lanzini belatedly replied in stoppage time.

With Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City having won at the weekend, this was a test of Chelsea&#39;s nerve, but their assured display suggested there will be few bumps on the road to the title.

Hazard, in particular, brimmed with self-belief, at one point using his back to play a showy pass to N&#39;Golo Kante, while Costa took his tally for the season to 18 goals in all competitions.

West Ham had won 2-1 when the sides last met in the League Cup in October, but Lanzini&#39;s late strike gave the final score at London Stadium a slightly misleading gloss for the home side.

Andy Carroll&#39;s return after a month out with a groin injury gave Slaven Bilic&#39;s West Ham a welcome attacking focal point and they looked for the towering striker at every opportunity.

Robert Snodgrass and Lanzini curled a succession of testing crosses into the Chelsea box, but the visitors withstood the aerial onslaught before taking the lead in ruthless fashion.

All it took was a misplaced Mark Noble pass to set Chelsea off, with Kante intercepting the loose ball before ferrying a pass down the left touchline to Hazard, who moved it infield to Pedro.

No sooner had he released the ball than Hazard was darting in behind the West Ham defence.

Pedro&#39;s pass found the Belgian and he nudged the ball wide of advancing goalkeeper Darren Randolph before steering a shot into the vacant net for his 11th goal of the season.

Fan intrusion&nbsp;

In a troubling moment, an irate male West Ham fan in a black anorak and jeans vaulted the advertising hoardings and attempted to confront Hazard as he celebrated, but was held back by stewards.

It took until the 40th minute for West Ham to muster an attempt worthy of the name, Lanzini swapping passes with Noble and blazing over.

They were fortunate to reach the interval only a goal behind after Chelsea spurned three clear-cut chances in rapid succession shortly before the break.

Hazard&#39;s cross was completely missed by Costa, Victor Moses saw an effort blocked by a stretching Aaron Cresswell and Pedro&#39;s follow-up was palmed away by Randolph.

Costa atoned for his miscue five minutes into the second half by doubling Chelsea&#39;s lead, guiding the ball into the net with his knee after Cesc Fabregas&#39;s corner had glanced off Pedro Obiang&#39;s head.

Marcos Alonso threatened to kill West Ham off for good moments later when he danced past Jose Fonte and dinked a shot wide.

But it proved the precursor to the hosts&#39; strongest period of the match.

Carroll curled in an effort that brushed the roof netting, Snodgrass worried Thibaut Courtois with a cross-shot and Fonte headed wide moments after Moses had blocked from Sofiane Feghouli.

Conte stiffened his midfield in response, sending on Nemanja Matic for Pedro and switching to a 5-3-2 configuration.

The switch succeeded in snuffing out the hosts&#39; revival and although Lanzini halved the arrears with a low drive, after Randolph had saved from Costa at the other end, victory never looked in doubt.

(AFP)

The English premier League frontrunners have restored their 10-point lead

Eden Hazard's dazzling goal inspired Chelsea to a 2-1 victory at West Ham United on Monday as Antonio Conte's side restored their 10-point advantage in the Premier League. Hazard finished off a lightning counter-attack in the 25th minute and Diego Costa's 49th league goal for Chelsea rubber-stamped victory before Manuel Lanzini belatedly replied in stoppage time. With Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City having won at the weekend, this was a test of Chelsea's nerve, but their assured display suggested there will be few bumps on the road to the title. Hazard, in particular, brimmed with self-belief, at one point using his back to play a showy pass to N'Golo Kante, while Costa took his tally for the season to 18 goals in all competitions. West Ham had won 2-1 when the sides last met in the League Cup in October, but Lanzini's late strike gave the final score at London Stadium a slightly misleading gloss for the home side. Andy Carroll's return after a month out with a groin injury gave Slaven Bilic's West Ham a welcome attacking focal point and they looked for the towering striker at every opportunity. Robert Snodgrass and Lanzini curled a succession of testing crosses into the Chelsea box, but the visitors withstood the aerial onslaught before taking the lead in ruthless fashion. All it took was a misplaced Mark Noble pass to set Chelsea off, with Kante intercepting the loose ball before ferrying a pass down the left touchline to Hazard, who moved it infield to Pedro. No sooner had he released the ball than Hazard was darting in behind the West Ham defence. Pedro's pass found the Belgian and he nudged the ball wide of advancing goalkeeper Darren Randolph before steering a shot into the vacant net for his 11th goal of the season. Fan intrusion In a troubling moment, an irate male West Ham fan in a black anorak and jeans vaulted the advertising hoardings and attempted to confront Hazard as he celebrated, but was held back by stewards. It took until the 40th minute for West Ham to muster an attempt worthy of the name, Lanzini swapping passes with Noble and blazing over. They were fortunate to reach the interval only a goal behind after Chelsea spurned three clear-cut chances in rapid succession shortly before the break. Hazard's cross was completely missed by Costa, Victor Moses saw an effort blocked by a stretching Aaron Cresswell and Pedro's follow-up was palmed away by Randolph. Costa atoned for his miscue five minutes into the second half by doubling Chelsea's lead, guiding the ball into the net with his knee after Cesc Fabregas's corner had glanced off Pedro Obiang's head. Marcos Alonso threatened to kill West Ham off for good moments later when he danced past Jose Fonte and dinked a shot wide. But it proved the precursor to the hosts' strongest period of the match. Carroll curled in an effort that brushed the roof netting, Snodgrass worried Thibaut Courtois with a cross-shot and Fonte headed wide moments after Moses had blocked from Sofiane Feghouli. Conte stiffened his midfield in response, sending on Nemanja Matic for Pedro and switching to a 5-3-2 configuration. The switch succeeded in snuffing out the hosts' revival and although Lanzini halved the arrears with a low drive, after Randolph had saved from Costa at the other end, victory never looked in doubt. (AFP)

Hazard inspires Chelsea to victory at West Ham

Leonardo Bonucci&#39;s second-half leveller saved Juventus&#39;&nbsp;blushes a day after Roma virtually conceded the title as the champions were held to their first Serie A draw in over a year at Udinese.

Juventus, aiming for a record sixth consecutive scudetto, were given a push in the right direction on Saturday when Roma&#39;s 2-1 home defeat to Napoli gave the Turin giants the chance to pull 10 points clear.

But in a cagey performance at the Dacia Stadium, filled to the brim for the visit of the 32-times Italian champions, Juve failed to capitalise, settling for their first draw of the campaign and their first in Serie A since drawing with Bologna in February 2016.&nbsp;

Massimiliano Allegri&#39;s men remain top of the pile but are now eight points ahead of Roma, with Napoli third at 10 points off the pace.

&quot;Before I say anything I have to compliment Udinese, who played a very solid game. At times they had two, three and even four players coming at our ball carriers,&quot; said Allegri.

&quot;We knew how difficult a game this would be after so many victories. It&#39;s been over a year since we&#39;ve drawn.

&quot;We made a lot of mistakes, especially in the first 20 minutes. On the plus side we gained a point on Roma but the championship is not over. Roma can still collect a lot of points.&quot;

Juventus were denied early penalty claims when Dani Alves, after pouncing on Gonzalo Higuain&#39;s smart delivery down the right, fired in a cross that appeared to come off the arm of Samir.

Referee Antonio Damato was unimpressed, and Juve suffered another blow minutes later when Duvan Zapata powered down the left, holding off Bonucci, to fire under the body of Gianluigi Buffon as the &#39;keeper came out to block at his near post.&nbsp;

But the home fans&#39; hopes of seeing Udinese hold on for a famous win were dashed on the hour.

Juventus won a free kick and when Paulo Dybala fired an inviting delivery towards the back post, Bonucci got between Silvan Widmar and Stipe Perica to head past Orestis Karnezis.

Earlier, surprise packages Atalanta stubbornly held on to fourth spot but missed out on the chance to close the gap on Napoli after seeing goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu perform heroics in a scoreless draw with Fiorentina in Bergamo.&nbsp;

That result was welcomed by rivals who are also hunting a place in Europe next season, and Inter Milan capitalised in style with a classy 5-1 win at Cagliari that saw two-goal Ivan Perisic inspire the Nerazzurri.

Inter moved up to fifth, one point ahead of city rivals AC Milan following their 3-1 win over Chievo on Saturday, although the Nerazzurri will be back down to sixth if Lazio draw or beat Bologna in Sunday&#39;s late game.

A week after being stunned 3-1 by Roma at the San Siro, Inter coach Stefano Pioli said: &quot;I&#39;ve been really pleased with how the lads have reacted after the defeat to Roma.

&quot;We looked at the footage to learn from those mistakes. Today we controlled the game, although we have to know when to speed things up and when to slow them down.&quot;

Elsewhere, Italy striker Andrea Belotti hit a hat-trick to take his tally for the season to a league-leading 22 goals in a 3-1 home win over Palermo.

Relegation candidates Palermo saw Andrea Rispoli beat England&#39;s Joe Hart from distance on the half hour.

But Belotti struck three times in the space of eight second-half minutes to hand Torino a 10th win of the campaign.&nbsp;

He now has a three-goal lead in the scoring charts on Roma&#39;s Edin Dzeko and Higuain, both on 19, with Napoli&#39;s Dries Mertens on 18 and Icardi on 17.

Belotti said: &quot;It would be amazing to win the top scorer&#39;s award.&quot;

(AFP)

Bonucci's second-half leveler save the Old Lady's blushes, and are now eight point clear of second-placed Roma

Leonardo Bonucci's second-half leveller saved Juventus' blushes a day after Roma virtually conceded the title as the champions were held to their first Serie A draw in over a year at Udinese. Juventus, aiming for a record sixth consecutive scudetto, were given a push in the right direction on Saturday when Roma's 2-1 home defeat to Napoli gave the Turin giants the chance to pull 10 points clear. But in a cagey performance at the Dacia Stadium, filled to the brim for the visit of the 32-times Italian champions, Juve failed to capitalise, settling for their first draw of the campaign and their first in Serie A since drawing with Bologna in February 2016. Massimiliano Allegri's men remain top of the pile but are now eight points ahead of Roma, with Napoli third at 10 points off the pace. "Before I say anything I have to compliment Udinese, who played a very solid game. At times they had two, three and even four players coming at our ball carriers," said Allegri. "We knew how difficult a game this would be after so many victories. It's been over a year since we've drawn. "We made a lot of mistakes, especially in the first 20 minutes. On the plus side we gained a point on Roma but the championship is not over. Roma can still collect a lot of points." Juventus were denied early penalty claims when Dani Alves, after pouncing on Gonzalo Higuain's smart delivery down the right, fired in a cross that appeared to come off the arm of Samir. Referee Antonio Damato was unimpressed, and Juve suffered another blow minutes later when Duvan Zapata powered down the left, holding off Bonucci, to fire under the body of Gianluigi Buffon as the 'keeper came out to block at his near post. But the home fans' hopes of seeing Udinese hold on for a famous win were dashed on the hour. Juventus won a free kick and when Paulo Dybala fired an inviting delivery towards the back post, Bonucci got between Silvan Widmar and Stipe Perica to head past Orestis Karnezis. Earlier, surprise packages Atalanta stubbornly held on to fourth spot but missed out on the chance to close the gap on Napoli after seeing goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu perform heroics in a scoreless draw with Fiorentina in Bergamo. That result was welcomed by rivals who are also hunting a place in Europe next season, and Inter Milan capitalised in style with a classy 5-1 win at Cagliari that saw two-goal Ivan Perisic inspire the Nerazzurri. Inter moved up to fifth, one point ahead of city rivals AC Milan following their 3-1 win over Chievo on Saturday, although the Nerazzurri will be back down to sixth if Lazio draw or beat Bologna in Sunday's late game. A week after being stunned 3-1 by Roma at the San Siro, Inter coach Stefano Pioli said: "I've been really pleased with how the lads have reacted after the defeat to Roma. "We looked at the footage to learn from those mistakes. Today we controlled the game, although we have to know when to speed things up and when to slow them down." Elsewhere, Italy striker Andrea Belotti hit a hat-trick to take his tally for the season to a league-leading 22 goals in a 3-1 home win over Palermo. Relegation candidates Palermo saw Andrea Rispoli beat England's Joe Hart from distance on the half hour. But Belotti struck three times in the space of eight second-half minutes to hand Torino a 10th win of the campaign. He now has a three-goal lead in the scoring charts on Roma's Edin Dzeko and Higuain, both on 19, with Napoli's Dries Mertens on 18 and Icardi on 17. Belotti said: "It would be amazing to win the top scorer's award." (AFP)

Juventus strive hard to earn point at Udinese, but stretch Serie A lead

Arsene Wenger&#39;s decision to leave Alexis Sanchez on the bench backfired as first half goals from Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane set Liverpool on course for a vital 3-1 win over Arsenal on Saturday.

Wenger eventually brought on the Chilean international at half-time at Anfield and he set up Danny Welbeck for a goal that breathed life into Arsenal.

But in the closely-fought contest for a top-four finish, this was a disappointing result for the Arsenal manager and Georginio Wijnaldum added Liverpool&#39;s third goal in stoppage-time to cap a wretched evening for the Gunners.

Arsenal drop below Liverpool to fifth place and sit two points outside the top four after a third defeat in their last four league games.

Faced with the daunting task of trying to overturn a 5-1 deficit against Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16 second leg, Wenger knows the critics will be sharpening their knives again on Tuesday and he can&#39;t expect any sympathy after this bizarre selection gamble.

Liverpool, who climb to third place, took nine minutes to score the opening goal in an effort to maintain their record of not having lost to a team currently in the top half of the Premier League this season.

It was the home team&#39;s first notable chance as Mane crossed from the right and Philippe Coutinho dummied the ball to allow it into the path of Firmino at the far post.

The Brazilian appeared to have mis-controlled the ball, with Hector Bellerin closing him down just six yards out, but Firmino had the presence of mind to recover and deposit the ball into the roof of the Arsenal goal.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had led a couple of early attacks with Bellerin sending over a dangerous cross from one of them which Joel Matip did well to defend at the expense of a corner.

But the second goal, five minutes before half-time, was an even better worked effort as Wijnaldum&#39;s pass from the left was moved on superbly by Firmino and Mane drove in an unstoppable finish.

Superiority&nbsp;

Liverpool, with just two wins in 12 attempts in the calendar year before this meeting, looked anxious in defence.

Oxlade-Chamberlain&#39;s 21st minute chip to the far post caused one such moment of concern as Olivier Giroud rose with Mignolet who flapped at the ball before it went out for a corner.

An entertaining game continued in that fashion with Firmino fractionally offside as he readied himself to tear through on goal and Petr Cech being forced to tip Coutinho&#39;s 18-yard shot over the Arsenal bar after Wijnaldum&#39;s lay-off.

But as the half wore on, Liverpool&#39;s superiority began to tell and the visiting supporters greeted a wayward effort by Granit Xhaka with ironic cheers of &quot;We&#39;ve had a shot&quot;.

Francis Coquelin, who was enduring a miserable, error-strewn evening, became the game&#39;s first booking for a petulant tug on the shirt of Adam Lallana and Liverpool&#39;s second goal soon after left his team in even deeper trouble.

Coutinho could have added a third before the interval as Lallana&#39;s pass deflected into his path but he could only scoop his shot into Cech&#39;s arms.

Wenger predictably threw on Sanchez as a half-time substitute and the forward soon provided two dangerous left-wing crosses - one which Mignolet turned away and another which found Giroud whose header was turned over by the Liverpool keeper.

The momentum was now with Arsenal and, on 56 minutes, a brilliant pass by Sanchez threaded the ball between Nathaniel Clyne and Matip for Welbeck to chase into the area.

The England forward lifted an accomplished finish over Mignolet for his first league goal since the end of April.

Arsenal looked more capable than the first half but Liverpool responded well to conceding and could have extended their lead before eventually scoring a deserved third.

(AFP)

Firmino and Mane set Liverpool on course for a 3-1 win over Arsenal, who had their talisman Sanchez sitting on the bench for the first half

Arsene Wenger's decision to leave Alexis Sanchez on the bench backfired as first half goals from Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane set Liverpool on course for a vital 3-1 win over Arsenal on Saturday. Wenger eventually brought on the Chilean international at half-time at Anfield and he set up Danny Welbeck for a goal that breathed life into Arsenal. But in the closely-fought contest for a top-four finish, this was a disappointing result for the Arsenal manager and Georginio Wijnaldum added Liverpool's third goal in stoppage-time to cap a wretched evening for the Gunners. Arsenal drop below Liverpool to fifth place and sit two points outside the top four after a third defeat in their last four league games. Faced with the daunting task of trying to overturn a 5-1 deficit against Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16 second leg, Wenger knows the critics will be sharpening their knives again on Tuesday and he can't expect any sympathy after this bizarre selection gamble. Liverpool, who climb to third place, took nine minutes to score the opening goal in an effort to maintain their record of not having lost to a team currently in the top half of the Premier League this season. It was the home team's first notable chance as Mane crossed from the right and Philippe Coutinho dummied the ball to allow it into the path of Firmino at the far post. The Brazilian appeared to have mis-controlled the ball, with Hector Bellerin closing him down just six yards out, but Firmino had the presence of mind to recover and deposit the ball into the roof of the Arsenal goal. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain had led a couple of early attacks with Bellerin sending over a dangerous cross from one of them which Joel Matip did well to defend at the expense of a corner. But the second goal, five minutes before half-time, was an even better worked effort as Wijnaldum's pass from the left was moved on superbly by Firmino and Mane drove in an unstoppable finish. Superiority Liverpool, with just two wins in 12 attempts in the calendar year before this meeting, looked anxious in defence. Oxlade-Chamberlain's 21st minute chip to the far post caused one such moment of concern as Olivier Giroud rose with Mignolet who flapped at the ball before it went out for a corner. An entertaining game continued in that fashion with Firmino fractionally offside as he readied himself to tear through on goal and Petr Cech being forced to tip Coutinho's 18-yard shot over the Arsenal bar after Wijnaldum's lay-off. But as the half wore on, Liverpool's superiority began to tell and the visiting supporters greeted a wayward effort by Granit Xhaka with ironic cheers of "We've had a shot". Francis Coquelin, who was enduring a miserable, error-strewn evening, became the game's first booking for a petulant tug on the shirt of Adam Lallana and Liverpool's second goal soon after left his team in even deeper trouble. Coutinho could have added a third before the interval as Lallana's pass deflected into his path but he could only scoop his shot into Cech's arms. Wenger predictably threw on Sanchez as a half-time substitute and the forward soon provided two dangerous left-wing crosses - one which Mignolet turned away and another which found Giroud whose header was turned over by the Liverpool keeper. The momentum was now with Arsenal and, on 56 minutes, a brilliant pass by Sanchez threaded the ball between Nathaniel Clyne and Matip for Welbeck to chase into the area. The England forward lifted an accomplished finish over Mignolet for his first league goal since the end of April. Arsenal looked more capable than the first half but Liverpool responded well to conceding and could have extended their lead before eventually scoring a deserved third. (AFP)

Mane-led Liverpool sparkle against lacklustre Arsenal

RB Leipzig suffered a German title setback on Friday when they were held to a 2-2 draw at Augsburg, handing champions Bayern Munich the chance to go seven points clear by the end of the weekend.

The result kept Leipzig in second spot on 49 points but Bayern can go to 56 points if they defeat seventh-placed Cologne on Saturday.

Augsburg, in 13th, have one of the worst home records this season with just three wins and 10 goals scored before Friday&#39;s clash.

But Kostas Stafylidis gave them the lead after just 19 minutes before the advantage was wiped out six minutes later when Timo Werner levelled.

Werner, who will turn 21 on Monday, now has 14 goals for the season.

Leipzig edged ahead after 52 minutes when centre-half Marvin Compper headed in a corner taken by Swedish star Emil Forsberg.

The visitors had chances to see off the game and make the three points safe but were pegged back on the hour when Martin Hinteregger equalised for Augsburg.

(AFP)

The draw gives Bayern Munich the chance to stretch their lead by seven points this weekend

RB Leipzig suffered a German title setback on Friday when they were held to a 2-2 draw at Augsburg, handing champions Bayern Munich the chance to go seven points clear by the end of the weekend. The result kept Leipzig in second spot on 49 points but Bayern can go to 56 points if they defeat seventh-placed Cologne on Saturday. Augsburg, in 13th, have one of the worst home records this season with just three wins and 10 goals scored before Friday's clash. But Kostas Stafylidis gave them the lead after just 19 minutes before the advantage was wiped out six minutes later when Timo Werner levelled. Werner, who will turn 21 on Monday, now has 14 goals for the season. Leipzig edged ahead after 52 minutes when centre-half Marvin Compper headed in a corner taken by Swedish star Emil Forsberg. The visitors had chances to see off the game and make the three points safe but were pegged back on the hour when Martin Hinteregger equalised for Augsburg. (AFP)

Leipzig suffer title setback after draw at Augsburg

The Premier League's leading goalscorer predicts a Chelsea title win and a Wayne Rooney departure from Manchester United

Exclusive: WION speaks with former England captain Alan Shearer

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique highlighted the hunger of his squad not to be ousted by Real Madrid as Spanish champions after a hard-fought 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao maintained their perfect start to the season. 
 
The Catalans had to win their final five league games of last season to stave off Real&#39;s late charge and claim a fifth title in seven seasons. 
 
&quot;It is a start to the season very like how we ended last season. All the players are involved, all the players have the desire and hunger to be first,&quot; said the Barca coach. 
 
Four wins to start the new campaign, including two in the Spanish Super Cup over Sevilla, have come about despite the absence of Neymar due to his participation in the Olympics and injured captain Andres Iniesta. 
 
&quot;We still have players to come back, players that have suffered injuries in pre-season, but we have a great squad and everyone is desperate to compete,&quot; added Luis Enrique. 
 
One area of competition within the squad was eased this week as Claudio Bravo signed for Manchester City, clearing the way for Marc-Andre ter Stegen to become Barca&#39;s undisputed number-one goalkeeper. 
 
Bravo and Ter Stegen have shared duties over the past two seasons with the former playing in La Liga, while the German featured in the Champions League and Copa del Rey. 
 
Ter Stegen&#39;s passing style from the back was in full evidence as he completed a La Liga record 51 passes for a goalkeeper, but also nearly cost Barca the opening goal with a poor clearance. 
 
However, Luis Enrique described his goalkeeper as being a &quot;good German&quot; for his calmness under pressure. 
 
&quot;Ter Stegen has cold blood, he is German and I think he is a good German. 
 
&quot;He is very able (to play out from the back) because of the quality he possesses.&quot;&nbsp; 
 
Ter Stegen was constantly pressed by the Athletic front line, but believes he will only improve after his first appearance of the season due to a knee injury. 
 
&quot;Here it is always difficult to play short passes out from the back,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;For me it was the first game and after an injury it is always a bit more difficult. 
 
&quot;In the coming games I think I will have more confidence in the things I do and with the knee.&quot; 
 
Dutch &#39;keeper Jasper Cillessen joined from Ajax in midweek to replace Bravo and Ter Stegen expects competition from he and perennial third choice Jordi Masip for his place in the side. 
 
&quot;We have good competition which is very good for all three of us. I hope everything is loyal and we can fight for our place as it should be.&quot; 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

'All the players are involved, all the players have the desire and hunger to be first,' said Enrique

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique highlighted the hunger of his squad not to be ousted by Real Madrid as Spanish champions after a hard-fought 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao maintained their perfect start to the season. The Catalans had to win their final five league games of last season to stave off Real's late charge and claim a fifth title in seven seasons. "It is a start to the season very like how we ended last season. All the players are involved, all the players have the desire and hunger to be first," said the Barca coach. Four wins to start the new campaign, including two in the Spanish Super Cup over Sevilla, have come about despite the absence of Neymar due to his participation in the Olympics and injured captain Andres Iniesta. "We still have players to come back, players that have suffered injuries in pre-season, but we have a great squad and everyone is desperate to compete," added Luis Enrique. One area of competition within the squad was eased this week as Claudio Bravo signed for Manchester City, clearing the way for Marc-Andre ter Stegen to become Barca's undisputed number-one goalkeeper. Bravo and Ter Stegen have shared duties over the past two seasons with the former playing in La Liga, while the German featured in the Champions League and Copa del Rey. Ter Stegen's passing style from the back was in full evidence as he completed a La Liga record 51 passes for a goalkeeper, but also nearly cost Barca the opening goal with a poor clearance. However, Luis Enrique described his goalkeeper as being a "good German" for his calmness under pressure. "Ter Stegen has cold blood, he is German and I think he is a good German. "He is very able (to play out from the back) because of the quality he possesses." Ter Stegen was constantly pressed by the Athletic front line, but believes he will only improve after his first appearance of the season due to a knee injury. "Here it is always difficult to play short passes out from the back," he said. "For me it was the first game and after an injury it is always a bit more difficult. "In the coming games I think I will have more confidence in the things I do and with the knee." Dutch 'keeper Jasper Cillessen joined from Ajax in midweek to replace Bravo and Ter Stegen expects competition from he and perennial third choice Jordi Masip for his place in the side. "We have good competition which is very good for all three of us. I hope everything is loyal and we can fight for our place as it should be." (AFP)

Barca maintain hunger for titles: Coach

Chelsea&#39;s processional march towards the Premier League title continued at Swansea City&#39;s expense on Saturday as last season&#39;s champions Leicester City dropped into the bottom three.

Antonio Conte&#39;s side were not firing on all cylinders against a resolute Swansea side managed by their former assistant manager Paul Clement but second-half goals by Pedro and Diego Costa made sure of a 3-1 victory.

They are now 11 points ahead of Manchester City who have 13 games left to play and while Italian Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title.

Chelsea&#39;s victory made it mathematically impossible for Leicester to catch them as they are 42 points behind the leaders going into their home clash with Liverpool on Monday - their first fixture since the sacking of manager Claudio Ranieri.

Leicester will start that game third bottom after Crystal Palace&#39;s 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Selhurst Park on Saturday took them out of the relegation zone.

Patrick van Aanholt&#39;s 34th-minute goal was enough to take Palace to 17th place with 22 points, one ahead of Leicester and Hull City who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley.

Boro also have 22 points but are sliding towards the drop zone after nine league games without a win.

Bournemouth are another side being sucked into the relegation battle after a 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion despite taking a fourth-minute lead through Josh King&#39;s penalty. Craig Dawson and Gareth McAuley replied for West Brom who are clear in eighth place.

In-form Everton continue to harbour hopes of catching the top four and beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to move within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal.

Romelu Lukaku made the points safe for Everton with 10 minutes remaining, taking his tally for the season 17, level at the top of the scoring charts with Arsenal&#39;s Alexis Sanchez.

Sunderland&#39;s fourth defeat in six games left them on 19 points.

Watford host West Ham United in the day&#39;s late kickoff while on Sunday Tottenham Hotspur can trim Chelsea&#39;s lead by a point if they win at home to Stoke City.

(Reuters)

Antonio Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, but only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title

Chelsea's processional march towards the Premier League title continued at Swansea City's expense on Saturday as last season's champions Leicester City dropped into the bottom three. Antonio Conte's side were not firing on all cylinders against a resolute Swansea side managed by their former assistant manager Paul Clement but second-half goals by Pedro and Diego Costa made sure of a 3-1 victory. They are now 11 points ahead of Manchester City who have 13 games left to play and while Italian Conte is too cagey to start proclaiming his side winners already, only a monumental loss of form can deny them the title. Chelsea's victory made it mathematically impossible for Leicester to catch them as they are 42 points behind the leaders going into their home clash with Liverpool on Monday - their first fixture since the sacking of manager Claudio Ranieri. Leicester will start that game third bottom after Crystal Palace's 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Selhurst Park on Saturday took them out of the relegation zone. Patrick van Aanholt's 34th-minute goal was enough to take Palace to 17th place with 22 points, one ahead of Leicester and Hull City who drew 1-1 at home with Burnley. Boro also have 22 points but are sliding towards the drop zone after nine league games without a win. Bournemouth are another side being sucked into the relegation battle after a 2-1 defeat at West Bromwich Albion despite taking a fourth-minute lead through Josh King's penalty. Craig Dawson and Gareth McAuley replied for West Brom who are clear in eighth place. In-form Everton continue to harbour hopes of catching the top four and beat bottom club Sunderland 2-0 to move within six points of fourth-placed Arsenal. Romelu Lukaku made the points safe for Everton with 10 minutes remaining, taking his tally for the season 17, level at the top of the scoring charts with Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez. Sunderland's fourth defeat in six games left them on 19 points. Watford host West Ham United in the day's late kickoff while on Sunday Tottenham Hotspur can trim Chelsea's lead by a point if they win at home to Stoke City. (Reuters)

Chelsea surge 11 points clear, Leicester drop into bottom three

Struggling Barcelona are still the best team in the world, according to the manager of their next opponents Atletico Madrid.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone said despite the &quot;one bad game against Paris&quot;, Barcelona remain the team to beat in Europe.

Luis Enrique&#39;s Barcelona have had a nightmarish recent days, with his team being thrashed 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16 of the Champions League and then producing a sluggish performance to beat lowly Leganes last weekend.

And despite Atletico being the favourites to march to the quarter-finals of Europe&#39;s elite club competition after producing a stunning 4-2 awat performance against Bayer Leverkusen, Simeone said: &quot;Barcelona are still the best in the world.&quot;

&quot;We played three extraordinary halves against them and still didn&#39;t get through, that shows that they are better.&quot;

Simeone was referring to the last three matches his team has played against the blaugranas.

A poor opening first 45 minutes in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie cost Atletico dear as wonder goals from Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi put Barca well on their way to a 3-2 aggregate win.

Luis Enrique, meanwhile, is hoping a first midweek off since the turn of the year is what Barca needed to recharge their batteries and recover their form.

&quot;It is the first free midweek we have had in 2017. The schedule has been brutal and it is evident that takes its toll,&quot; said Enrique.

&quot;The week allowed us to work on things, for the team to rest and analyse what is going on with the team.&quot;

Real Madrid&#39;s defeat to Valencia in midweek means Barca still trail their title rivals by just a point.

And Luis Enrique&#39;s men can go top for at least a few hours with victory at the Vicente Calderon, with Madrid not in action until later on Sunday at Villarreal.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Diego Simeone shrugged off talks of Barcelona's frailties, saying that every team can have 'one bad day' as they did against PSG

Struggling Barcelona are still the best team in the world, according to the manager of their next opponents Atletico Madrid. Atletico boss Diego Simeone said despite the "one bad game against Paris", Barcelona remain the team to beat in Europe. Luis Enrique's Barcelona have had a nightmarish recent days, with his team being thrashed 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16 of the Champions League and then producing a sluggish performance to beat lowly Leganes last weekend. And despite Atletico being the favourites to march to the quarter-finals of Europe's elite club competition after producing a stunning 4-2 awat performance against Bayer Leverkusen, Simeone said: "Barcelona are still the best in the world." "We played three extraordinary halves against them and still didn't get through, that shows that they are better." Simeone was referring to the last three matches his team has played against the blaugranas. A poor opening first 45 minutes in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie cost Atletico dear as wonder goals from Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi put Barca well on their way to a 3-2 aggregate win. Luis Enrique, meanwhile, is hoping a first midweek off since the turn of the year is what Barca needed to recharge their batteries and recover their form. "It is the first free midweek we have had in 2017. The schedule has been brutal and it is evident that takes its toll," said Enrique. "The week allowed us to work on things, for the team to rest and analyse what is going on with the team." Real Madrid's defeat to Valencia in midweek means Barca still trail their title rivals by just a point. And Luis Enrique's men can go top for at least a few hours with victory at the Vicente Calderon, with Madrid not in action until later on Sunday at Villarreal. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Barcelona are still the best, insists Atletico manager

England captain Wayne Rooney is unlikely to leave Manchester United next week and is surprised by boss Jos&eacute; Mourinho&rsquo;s claim he could do so, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/feb/22/wayne-rooney-set-to-leave-manchester-united-summer-if-first-team-absence-continues">The Guardian</a> reported today (February 23).

Rooney, who was still not fit enough to join his team for their Europa League clash with Saint-Etienne yesterday, is determined to see the season out, the Guardian report claimed. The rumours come even as his agent, Paul Stretford, has flown to China to see if he can negotiate a deal for his client to leave United, most likely at the end of the season.

The 31-year-old is unlikely to remain at Old Trafford unless United actively tell him he can depart or there is a lucrative last-minute offer from China&rsquo;s Super League before its window closes on Tuesday.

There has been speculation that Rooney, who is no longer an integral part of the United side under Mourinho, could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League.

Asked if Rooney would leave for the Chinese Super League before the transfer window closes next week, Mourinho had said, &quot;&ldquo;You have to ask him. Of course I can&rsquo;t guarantee he will still be here next season. I cannot guarantee that I&rsquo;m here next week, how can I guarantee that a player is here next season? What I can guarantee is that, if one day Wayne leaves the club, it is not because I want him to leave the club.

&ldquo;I would never push a legend of this club to another destiny. You have to ask him if he sees himself staying in the club for the rest of his career or sees himself moving. I was very open with you in the answer. I don&rsquo;t want him to leave.&rdquo;

Mourinho&rsquo;s comment caught the player unawares as he has no wish to move on, The Guardian reported, adding that the skipper is unhappy at his lack of regular starts and unless this situation vastly improves before the season ends he will depart in the summer.&nbsp; 
 
Guangzhou Evergrande, Beijing Guoan, Jiangsu Suning and Tianjin Quanjian are said to be among those interested in hiring Rooney.

Meanwhile, asked if he would be fit for Sunday&#39;s English Football League Cup final against Southampton, Mourinho was non-committal, AFP reported.

&quot;I don&#39;t know. This morning was the first time he trained and didn&#39;t even train 100 per cent with the group,&quot; the Portuguese boss told reporters at Saint-Etienne&#39;s Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

&quot;He is injured, I cannot do miracles at that level,&quot; he said. &quot;Rooney is injured, he (has been) injured for two or three weeks.

&quot;When you don&#39;t have a player, you have others. The team is in a good moment. In the past few months we&#39;ve lost only one game and it was one we could lose as it was a two-legged match,&quot; added Mourinho.

(WION with inputs from Guardian, AFP)

Rumours have been rife that Rooney could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League

England captain Wayne Rooney is unlikely to leave Manchester United next week and is surprised by boss José Mourinho’s claim he could do so, The Guardian reported today (February 23). Rooney, who was still not fit enough to join his team for their Europa League clash with Saint-Etienne yesterday, is determined to see the season out, the Guardian report claimed. The rumours come even as his agent, Paul Stretford, has flown to China to see if he can negotiate a deal for his client to leave United, most likely at the end of the season. The 31-year-old is unlikely to remain at Old Trafford unless United actively tell him he can depart or there is a lucrative last-minute offer from China’s Super League before its window closes on Tuesday. There has been speculation that Rooney, who is no longer an integral part of the United side under Mourinho, could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League. Asked if Rooney would leave for the Chinese Super League before the transfer window closes next week, Mourinho had said, "“You have to ask him. Of course I can’t guarantee he will still be here next season. I cannot guarantee that I’m here next week, how can I guarantee that a player is here next season? What I can guarantee is that, if one day Wayne leaves the club, it is not because I want him to leave the club. “I would never push a legend of this club to another destiny. You have to ask him if he sees himself staying in the club for the rest of his career or sees himself moving. I was very open with you in the answer. I don’t want him to leave.” Mourinho’s comment caught the player unawares as he has no wish to move on, The Guardian reported, adding that the skipper is unhappy at his lack of regular starts and unless this situation vastly improves before the season ends he will depart in the summer. Guangzhou Evergrande, Beijing Guoan, Jiangsu Suning and Tianjin Quanjian are said to be among those interested in hiring Rooney. Meanwhile, asked if he would be fit for Sunday's English Football League Cup final against Southampton, Mourinho was non-committal, AFP reported. "I don't know. This morning was the first time he trained and didn't even train 100 per cent with the group," the Portuguese boss told reporters at Saint-Etienne's Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. "He is injured, I cannot do miracles at that level," he said. "Rooney is injured, he (has been) injured for two or three weeks. "When you don't have a player, you have others. The team is in a good moment. In the past few months we've lost only one game and it was one we could lose as it was a two-legged match," added Mourinho. (WION with inputs from Guardian, AFP)

Wayne Rooney's Manchester United exit gathers steam, Mourinho adds to rumours

Claudio Ranieri said his &quot;dream died&quot; when he was sacked by Leicester City nine months after leading them to the Premier League title against all the odds.

The Italian was fired on Thursday with Leicester one place and one point above the relegation zone.

&quot;Yesterday my dream died,&quot; Ranieri said in a statement on Friday. &quot;After the euphoria of last season and being crowned Premier League champions all I dreamt of was staying with Leicester; the club I love for always. Sadly this was not to be.&quot;

Ranieri&#39;s dismissal has been met with widespread shock.

&quot;The adventure was amazing and will live with me forever,&quot; the 65-year-old manager said.

&quot;My heartfelt thanks to everybody at the club, everybody who was part of what we achieved, but mostly to the supporters. You took me into your hearts from day one and loved me. I love you too.&quot;

Leicester started last season as 5,000-1 outsiders to win the English top-flight title for the first time in their history.

&quot;No-one can ever take away what we achieved together and I hope you think about it and smile every day the way I always will,&quot; Ranieri said.

&quot;It was a time of wonderfulness and happiness that I will never forget. It&#39;s been a pleasure and an honour to be a champion with all of you.&quot;

(Reuters)

The Italian was fired on Thursday with Leicester City one place and one point above the relegation zone

Claudio Ranieri said his "dream died" when he was sacked by Leicester City nine months after leading them to the Premier League title against all the odds. The Italian was fired on Thursday with Leicester one place and one point above the relegation zone. "Yesterday my dream died," Ranieri said in a statement on Friday. "After the euphoria of last season and being crowned Premier League champions all I dreamt of was staying with Leicester; the club I love for always. Sadly this was not to be." Ranieri's dismissal has been met with widespread shock. "The adventure was amazing and will live with me forever," the 65-year-old manager said. "My heartfelt thanks to everybody at the club, everybody who was part of what we achieved, but mostly to the supporters. You took me into your hearts from day one and loved me. I love you too." Leicester started last season as 5,000-1 outsiders to win the English top-flight title for the first time in their history. "No-one can ever take away what we achieved together and I hope you think about it and smile every day the way I always will," Ranieri said. "It was a time of wonderfulness and happiness that I will never forget. It's been a pleasure and an honour to be a champion with all of you." (Reuters)

My dream has died, says sacked Ranieri

Manchester United&#39;s Wayne Rooney intends to stay at the club, ending speculation that he could move to China.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Despite the interest which has been shown from other clubs, for which I&rsquo;m grateful, I want to end recent speculation and say that I am staying at Manchester United,&quot; Rooney said in a statement on Thursday.&nbsp;

British media had reported that Rooney&#39;s agent, Paul Stretford, was in China to see if he could negotiate a deal for the England forward to leave United.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rooney, 31, has been unable to command a regular starting place under manager Jose Mourinho and faces a race to be fit for a likely substitute&#39;s role in the League Cup final against Southampton at Wembley on Sunday.

In January he broke Bobby Charlton&#39;s club goal-scoring record but has fallen behind the likes of Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marcus Rashford in the competition for a first-team place.

In the statement, on United`s website, he said: &quot;I hope I will play a full part in helping the team in its fight for success on four fronts.&quot;

His current Manchester United contract expires after the 2017-2018 season.

(Reuters)

&nbsp;

There were speculations that Rooney could move to China

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney intends to stay at the club, ending speculation that he could move to China. “Despite the interest which has been shown from other clubs, for which I’m grateful, I want to end recent speculation and say that I am staying at Manchester United," Rooney said in a statement on Thursday. British media had reported that Rooney's agent, Paul Stretford, was in China to see if he could negotiate a deal for the England forward to leave United. Rooney, 31, has been unable to command a regular starting place under manager Jose Mourinho and faces a race to be fit for a likely substitute's role in the League Cup final against Southampton at Wembley on Sunday. In January he broke Bobby Charlton's club goal-scoring record but has fallen behind the likes of Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marcus Rashford in the competition for a first-team place. In the statement, on United`s website, he said: "I hope I will play a full part in helping the team in its fight for success on four fronts." His current Manchester United contract expires after the 2017-2018 season. (Reuters)

Football: Wayne Rooney says he will stay at Manchester United

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