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Manchester United will end their season with a heartbreak after losing 0-1 to Tottenham Hotspur in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/europa-league">2025 Europa League final</a> on Wednesday (May 21). After the defeat at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, United defender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/luke-shaw">Luke Shaw </a>didn’t hold back on the team's horror show in the 2024-25 season.&nbsp;He admitted that both he and his teammates must ask questions to themselves if they are good enough to play for the team. The final loss wrapped off a miserable campaign for the Red Devils, who currently sit 16th in the Premier League, their lowest since 1974. Rubbing salt into the wound, Tottenham, who are placed 17th, managed to win the final through Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal.&nbsp;“It’s not good enough, “We all have to look in the mirror and ask if we can play for this club,” Shaw said after the heartbreaking defeat.&nbsp;Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-will-quit-make-a-shorter-squad-pep-guardiola-fires-warning-at-man-city-management-after-poor-season-1747822775866"> 'I will quit, make a shorter squad': Pep Guardiola fires warning at Man City management after poor season</a>&nbsp;Shaw, who joined United in 2014, has endured several tough seasons, but he believes this one has been the most painful. He backed head coach Ruben Amorim, saying, “Ruben is 100% the right man. He sees everything on and off the pitch.”&nbsp;The English international pointed to the team’s poor mindset as a major threat. “Many times we didn’t believe we could win,” he said. “That needs to change.”&nbsp;United will now miss out on European football next season. Shaw admitted it was a massive setback to the club's future. “This result hurts our rebuild,” he added.&nbsp;Still, he had a message for the fans: “We’re sorry. We know this season hasn’t been good enough. But we truly appreciate the support. It means a lot.”&nbsp;Now, the pressure is on the club and players to rebuild, regroup and return stronger next season. They will have to prove that every setback is a setup for the next comeback.

Luke Shaw admitted that both he and his teammates must ask questions to themselves if they are good enough to play in the team. The final loss wrapped off a miserable campaign for the Red Devils, who finished 16th in the Premier League, their lowest rank since 1974.

Manchester United will end their season with a heartbreak after losing 0-1 to Tottenham Hotspur in the 2025 Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21). After the defeat at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, United defender Luke Shaw didn’t hold back on the team's horror show in the 2024-25 season. He admitted that both he and his teammates must ask questions to themselves if they are good enough to play for the team. The final loss wrapped off a miserable campaign for the Red Devils, who currently sit 16th in the Premier League, their lowest since 1974. Rubbing salt into the wound, Tottenham, who are placed 17th, managed to win the final through Brennan Johnson’s first-half goal. “It’s not good enough, “We all have to look in the mirror and ask if we can play for this club,” Shaw said after the heartbreaking defeat. Also Read | 'I will quit, make a shorter squad': Pep Guardiola fires warning at Man City management after poor season Shaw, who joined United in 2014, has endured several tough seasons, but he believes this one has been the most painful. He backed head coach Ruben Amorim, saying, “Ruben is 100% the right man. He sees everything on and off the pitch.” The English international pointed to the team’s poor mindset as a major threat. “Many times we didn’t believe we could win,” he said. “That needs to change.” United will now miss out on European football next season. Shaw admitted it was a massive setback to the club's future. “This result hurts our rebuild,” he added. Still, he had a message for the fans: “We’re sorry. We know this season hasn’t been good enough. But we truly appreciate the support. It means a lot.” Now, the pressure is on the club and players to rebuild, regroup and return stronger next season. They will have to prove that every setback is a setup for the next comeback.

Luke Shaw admitted that both he and his teammates must ask questions to themselves if they are good enough to play for the team. The final loss wrapped off a miserable campaign for the Red Devils, who currently sit 16th in the Premier League, their lowest since 1974.&nbsp;

'We have to look in the mirror': Luke Shaw reflects after Europa League final defeat to Spurs

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou fulfilled his commitment of a silverware after his side defeated Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21). Playing at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spurs got the better of United in a narrow 1-0 win, in the process winning the club’s first trophy in 17 years. After the match, Postecoglou insisted that ‘he’s a winner’, having won a trophy in his second season with every club he has managed.&nbsp;<h2>Postecoglou lives up to expectation</h2>&nbsp;"I'm a winner. Win is what I do the most," said Postecoglou after his side's victory over Manchester United. "Even when I signed, Daniel [Levy] said 'we've gone after winners and it didn't work, now we've got Ange'. Mate, I'm a winner."&nbsp;In a narrow win, Spurs attacker Brennan Johnson scored the only goal of the match in the 41st minute as they held on to the lead until the final whistle. United looked short of options in the attacking third as Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo could not influence the game. United’s best chance came in the middle of the second half when a Harry Maguire header was cleared off the line by Spurs centre-back Micky van de Ven.&nbsp;The win for Tottenham also saw them clinch a place in next season’s Champions League as they return to the premier European competition after three years. The win ended their 17-year trophy drought as they beat United in the final.&nbsp;&nbsp;The win also saw Spurs secure their first European trophy in 41 years, having last clinched the same competition in 1984. Spurs are now the joint-most successful English club in the Europa League with the latest triumph. Both Spurs and Liverpool have three Europa League titles to their name, while Chelsea sit second with two triumphs.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou fulfilled his commitment of a silverware after his side defeated Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21).

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou fulfilled his commitment of a silverware after his side defeated Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21). Playing at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, Spurs got the better of United in a narrow 1-0 win, in the process winning the club’s first trophy in 17 years. After the match, Postecoglou insisted that ‘he’s a winner’, having won a trophy in his second season with every club he has managed. Postecoglou lives up to expectation "I'm a winner. Win is what I do the most," said Postecoglou after his side's victory over Manchester United. "Even when I signed, Daniel [Levy] said 'we've gone after winners and it didn't work, now we've got Ange'. Mate, I'm a winner." In a narrow win, Spurs attacker Brennan Johnson scored the only goal of the match in the 41st minute as they held on to the lead until the final whistle. United looked short of options in the attacking third as Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo could not influence the game. United’s best chance came in the middle of the second half when a Harry Maguire header was cleared off the line by Spurs centre-back Micky van de Ven. The win for Tottenham also saw them clinch a place in next season’s Champions League as they return to the premier European competition after three years. The win ended their 17-year trophy drought as they beat United in the final. The win also saw Spurs secure their first European trophy in 41 years, having last clinched the same competition in 1984. Spurs are now the joint-most successful English club in the Europa League with the latest triumph. Both Spurs and Liverpool have three Europa League titles to their name, while Chelsea sit second with two triumphs.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou fulfilled his commitment of a silverware after his side defeated Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21).

Ange Postecoglou lives up to promise as Spurs boss delivers silverware in Europe, says 'I'm a winner'

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has insisted he will quit without a payoff if the board no longer trusts him. Speaking on Wednesday (May 21) after United’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs in the Europa League final. Amorim insists he is not afraid of failure and will leave without any compensation. The defeat for United means they will end the season trophyless and won’t play in any European competition next season.&nbsp;<h2>Amorim ready to quit?</h2>"I have nothing to show the fans, so in this moment it is a little bit of faith...Let's see. I am always open. If the board and fans feel I am not the right guy, I will go in the next day without any conversation about compensation, but I will not quit," Amorim told reporters.&nbsp;"I am really confident on my job. And as you see I will not change nothing in the way I do things. I am not going to talk about the future, tonight we need to deal with the pain of losing this match...It was clear we were the better team, then we manage not to score again. The guys try everything to win the game. In the future, we can assess," he added.&nbsp;Having succeeded Erik ten Hag in November, Manchester United’s new manager has found it difficult to settle and endured a very tough run-in. They have lost 18 matches in the Premier League and sit 16th, Utd’s worst run in the Premier League era. The club had memorable moments in the Europa League, where they beat Lyon and Athletic Bilbao.<h2>Spurs end trophy drought</h2>On the other hand, Tottenham Hotspur ended their 17-year trophy drought as they beat United in the final. The win also saw Spurs secure their first European trophy in 41 years, having last clinched the same competition in 1984. Spurs are now the joint-most successful English club in the Europa League with the latest triumph. Both Spurs and Liverpool have three Europa League titles to their name, while Chelsea sit second with two triumphs.

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has insisted he will quit without a payoff if the board no longer trusts him. Speaking on Wednesday (May 21) after United’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs in the Europa League final.

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has insisted he will quit without a payoff if the board no longer trusts him. Speaking on Wednesday (May 21) after United’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs in the Europa League final. Amorim insists he is not afraid of failure and will leave without any compensation. The defeat for United means they will end the season trophyless and won’t play in any European competition next season. Amorim ready to quit? "I have nothing to show the fans, so in this moment it is a little bit of faith...Let's see. I am always open. If the board and fans feel I am not the right guy, I will go in the next day without any conversation about compensation, but I will not quit," Amorim told reporters. "I am really confident on my job. And as you see I will not change nothing in the way I do things. I am not going to talk about the future, tonight we need to deal with the pain of losing this match...It was clear we were the better team, then we manage not to score again. The guys try everything to win the game. In the future, we can assess," he added. Having succeeded Erik ten Hag in November, Manchester United’s new manager has found it difficult to settle and endured a very tough run-in. They have lost 18 matches in the Premier League and sit 16th, Utd’s worst run in the Premier League era. The club had memorable moments in the Europa League, where they beat Lyon and Athletic Bilbao. Spurs end trophy drought On the other hand, Tottenham Hotspur ended their 17-year trophy drought as they beat United in the final. The win also saw Spurs secure their first European trophy in 41 years, having last clinched the same competition in 1984. Spurs are now the joint-most successful English club in the Europa League with the latest triumph. Both Spurs and Liverpool have three Europa League titles to their name, while Chelsea sit second with two triumphs.

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has insisted he will quit without a payoff if the board no longer trusts him. Speaking on Wednesday (May 21) after United’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs in the Europa League final.

Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim ready to quit without payoff if board loses trust after Europa League defeat to Spurs

Brennan Johnson's scrambled goal ended a 17-year Tottenham trophy drought with a battling 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday.Spurs, who had not won European silverware since 1984, will play in next season's Champions League, while failing to qualify for it is a severe financial set-back for Manchester United.&nbsp;Despite their triumph in Bilbao, manager Ange Postecoglou's future is still on the line following a shambolic domestic campaign, with Spurs sitting a place below United in the lower reaches of the Premier League table.&nbsp;The Australian furiously insisted he was "not a clown" on the eve of the final and had the last laugh on a nerve-racking night at the San Mames, as he made good on his claim to always win a trophy in his second season in charge of a club.&nbsp;"This is what it's all about, this club hasn't won a trophy for 17 years, honestly, this is what it means, it means so much," Wales winger Johnson told TNT Sports.&nbsp;"Ever since I came here it's been (people saying) 'Tottenham are a good team, but they never get it done' -- we got it done!"&nbsp;Fans came from far and wide to pack Athletic Bilbao's stadium, some taking quite preposterous routes and sleeping in cars to avoid eye-watering prices, but they could not escape a final lacking in quality.&nbsp;It was a match between teams languishing in 16th and 17th place respectively after dismal Premier League campaigns and that was the essence of it too, played at high intensity but with low confidence, and a prize on the line so big it overawed.&nbsp;There were a large number of turnovers, neither side keeping the ball with any ease, moves ending in panicked defending and balls being thumped to safety, or a litany of clumsy fouls.&nbsp;Manchester United fans chanted Ruben Amorim's name, backing their Portuguese coach despite the club's worst Premier League season in half a century.&nbsp;In the early exchanges, 22-year-old United winger Amad Diallo, one of the few players high on self-belief, flashed a shot across goal and then left Destiny Udogie spinning as he dribbled past.&nbsp;Spurs made the breakthrough after 42 minutes and, perhaps fittingly, it came in the form of a scrappy goal.&nbsp;Tottenham midfielder Sarr, who had completed just a single pass to this point, curled in a cross to the near post for Johnson.&nbsp;The winger's attempted flick bounced off Shaw's shoulder, brushed Johnson's boot again and crossed the goal-line in slow motion with Andre Onana unable to claw it out with a desperate arm.<h2>Nowhere near good enough</h2>Spurs sat back in the second half, for once pragmatically trying to protect their slender advantage and look for opportunities to strike again on the counter-attack.&nbsp;They nearly found one when Yves Bissouma played in Dominic Solanke, but the striker could not control the ball.&nbsp;Spurs had just 27 percent possession by the end, with three shots, just one on target.Manchester United almost equalised when Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario came off his line but failed to claim a set-piece pounded forward from deep.&nbsp;The ball dropped for Rasmus Hojlund but his header over the stranded Spurs stopper was sensationally cleared in acrobatic fashion by Micky van de Ven.&nbsp;Spurs sent on captain Son Heung-min for the ragged Richarlison, with the South Korean international a surprising non-starter.&nbsp;United defender Harry Maguire scored a vital goal against Lyon on United's thrilling run to the final, and was thrust up front late on, but Spurs shut him out.&nbsp;Shaw had a chance to redeem himself at the end for his part in Johnson's goal but his header was pushed to safety by Vicario.&nbsp;United suffered a 21st defeat this season and a fourth against Spurs, who claimed their third Europa League trophy.&nbsp;Amorim said winning the trophy would not solve United's many deep-lying problems but could set the club up well for the future, however United leave Bilbao without even that."We managed not to score again, that makes it hard to win matches," said Amorim.For only the second time in 35 years, United will not play European football next term."For a club like Manchester United, it's nowhere near good enough," Shaw told reporters.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brennan Johnson scrambled goal ended a 17-year Tottenham trophy drought with a battling 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday.

Brennan Johnson's scrambled goal ended a 17-year Tottenham trophy drought with a battling 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday. Spurs, who had not won European silverware since 1984, will play in next season's Champions League, while failing to qualify for it is a severe financial set-back for Manchester United. Despite their triumph in Bilbao, manager Ange Postecoglou's future is still on the line following a shambolic domestic campaign, with Spurs sitting a place below United in the lower reaches of the Premier League table. The Australian furiously insisted he was "not a clown" on the eve of the final and had the last laugh on a nerve-racking night at the San Mames, as he made good on his claim to always win a trophy in his second season in charge of a club. "This is what it's all about, this club hasn't won a trophy for 17 years, honestly, this is what it means, it means so much," Wales winger Johnson told TNT Sports. "Ever since I came here it's been (people saying) 'Tottenham are a good team, but they never get it done' -- we got it done!" Fans came from far and wide to pack Athletic Bilbao's stadium, some taking quite preposterous routes and sleeping in cars to avoid eye-watering prices, but they could not escape a final lacking in quality. It was a match between teams languishing in 16th and 17th place respectively after dismal Premier League campaigns and that was the essence of it too, played at high intensity but with low confidence, and a prize on the line so big it overawed. There were a large number of turnovers, neither side keeping the ball with any ease, moves ending in panicked defending and balls being thumped to safety, or a litany of clumsy fouls. Manchester United fans chanted Ruben Amorim's name, backing their Portuguese coach despite the club's worst Premier League season in half a century. In the early exchanges, 22-year-old United winger Amad Diallo, one of the few players high on self-belief, flashed a shot across goal and then left Destiny Udogie spinning as he dribbled past. Spurs made the breakthrough after 42 minutes and, perhaps fittingly, it came in the form of a scrappy goal. Tottenham midfielder Sarr, who had completed just a single pass to this point, curled in a cross to the near post for Johnson. The winger's attempted flick bounced off Shaw's shoulder, brushed Johnson's boot again and crossed the goal-line in slow motion with Andre Onana unable to claw it out with a desperate arm. Nowhere near good enough Spurs sat back in the second half, for once pragmatically trying to protect their slender advantage and look for opportunities to strike again on the counter-attack. They nearly found one when Yves Bissouma played in Dominic Solanke, but the striker could not control the ball. Spurs had just 27 percent possession by the end, with three shots, just one on target. Manchester United almost equalised when Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario came off his line but failed to claim a set-piece pounded forward from deep. The ball dropped for Rasmus Hojlund but his header over the stranded Spurs stopper was sensationally cleared in acrobatic fashion by Micky van de Ven. Spurs sent on captain Son Heung-min for the ragged Richarlison, with the South Korean international a surprising non-starter. United defender Harry Maguire scored a vital goal against Lyon on United's thrilling run to the final, and was thrust up front late on, but Spurs shut him out. Shaw had a chance to redeem himself at the end for his part in Johnson's goal but his header was pushed to safety by Vicario. United suffered a 21st defeat this season and a fourth against Spurs, who claimed their third Europa League trophy. Amorim said winning the trophy would not solve United's many deep-lying problems but could set the club up well for the future, however United leave Bilbao without even that. "We managed not to score again, that makes it hard to win matches," said Amorim. For only the second time in 35 years, United will not play European football next term. "For a club like Manchester United, it's nowhere near good enough," Shaw told reporters. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Brennan Johnson's scrambled goal ended a 17-year Tottenham trophy drought with a battling 1-0 win over Manchester United in the Europa League final on Wednesday.

Tottenham Hotspur edge Manchester United to win Europa League; end 17-year trophy drought

Euro 2028 hosts England, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales will compete in qualifying for the tournament, UEFA said Wednesday.The European football governing body confirmed the qualification format for the 24-team tournament, reserving two places for host nations who do not qualify."(The) hosts... will also participate in qualifying, drawn into separate groups," said UEFA in a statement after an executive committee meeting in Bilbao ahead of the Europa League final.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-will-quit-make-a-shorter-squad-pep-guardiola-fires-warning-at-man-city-management-after-poor-season-1747822775866">'I will quit, make a shorter squad': Pep Guardiola fires warning at Man City management after poor season</a>"The 12 group winners and eight best runners-up (20 teams) will advance directly to the EURO 2028 final tournament."Two spots in the final tournament will be reserved for the two best-ranked host nations who are not qualified as group winners or best runners-up after the completion of the qualifying group stage."The remaining places at the tournament will be won via play-offs between the remaining qualifying group runners-up and the highest ranked 2026-27 Nations League non-qualified group winners.The number of spots available through play-offs will depend on whether host nations qualify directly through the groups or via the reserved qualifying slots.Euro 2024 hosts Germany qualified directly to the tournament, eventually won by Spain who beat England in the Berlin final.Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The European football governing body confirmed the qualification format for the 24-team tournament, reserving two places for host nations who do not qualify.

Euro 2028 hosts England, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales will compete in qualifying for the tournament, UEFA said Wednesday. The European football governing body confirmed the qualification format for the 24-team tournament, reserving two places for host nations who do not qualify. "(The) hosts... will also participate in qualifying, drawn into separate groups," said UEFA in a statement after an executive committee meeting in Bilbao ahead of the Europa League final. Also Read - 'I will quit, make a shorter squad': Pep Guardiola fires warning at Man City management after poor season "The 12 group winners and eight best runners-up (20 teams) will advance directly to the EURO 2028 final tournament. "Two spots in the final tournament will be reserved for the two best-ranked host nations who are not qualified as group winners or best runners-up after the completion of the qualifying group stage." The remaining places at the tournament will be won via play-offs between the remaining qualifying group runners-up and the highest ranked 2026-27 Nations League non-qualified group winners. The number of spots available through play-offs will depend on whether host nations qualify directly through the groups or via the reserved qualifying slots. Euro 2024 hosts Germany qualified directly to the tournament, eventually won by Spain who beat England in the Berlin final. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The European football governing body confirmed the qualification format for the 24-team tournament, reserving two places for host nations who do not qualify.

Two spots reserved for hosts unable to qualify for Euro 2028, confirms UEFA

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has fired a warning at the team’s management as they close the season on Sunday (May 26). City, having endured a tough season under Pep’s management, won a vital Premier League clash against Bournemouth on Tuesday, which sees them a step closer to Champions League football. However, after the 3-1 win, Pep did not hold back and asked the management to trim the squad, or else he’ll quit.<h2>Guardiola fires warning to Man City management</h2>"I said to the club I don't want that (a bigger squad)," Guardiola said. "I don't want to leave five or six players in the freezer. I don't want that. I will quit. Make a shorter squad, I will stay.&nbsp;"It's impossible for my soul to (tell) my players in the tribune that they cannot play.&nbsp;"Now it happened to add players immediately. Maybe for three or four months, we couldn't select 11 players, we didn't have defenders, it was so difficult. After, people come back but next season it cannot be like that.”&nbsp;The Blues on Saturday lost the FA Cup final, meaning they will end the season without a trophy for the first time since 2017. The team from Manchester had their struggles in the season, having failed to defend their Premier League crown while also losing to Real Madrid in the Playoffs.&nbsp;After Tuesday’s results in the Premier League, Man City are third in the standings with 68 points and a win on Sunday will see them clinch a place in next season’s Champions League. However, failure to win coupled with other results, could see Pep Guardiola’s side finish as low as sixth, meaning they could miss out on a place in the premier continental competition. Man City will end the season against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Man City, having endured a tough season under Pep’s management, won a vital Premier League clash against Bournemouth on Tuesday, which sees them a step closer to Champions League football.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has fired a warning at the team’s management as they close the season on Sunday (May 26). City, having endured a tough season under Pep’s management, won a vital Premier League clash against Bournemouth on Tuesday, which sees them a step closer to Champions League football. However, after the 3-1 win, Pep did not hold back and asked the management to trim the squad, or else he’ll quit. Guardiola fires warning to Man City management "I said to the club I don't want that (a bigger squad)," Guardiola said. "I don't want to leave five or six players in the freezer. I don't want that. I will quit. Make a shorter squad, I will stay. "It's impossible for my soul to (tell) my players in the tribune that they cannot play. "Now it happened to add players immediately. Maybe for three or four months, we couldn't select 11 players, we didn't have defenders, it was so difficult. After, people come back but next season it cannot be like that.” The Blues on Saturday lost the FA Cup final, meaning they will end the season without a trophy for the first time since 2017. The team from Manchester had their struggles in the season, having failed to defend their Premier League crown while also losing to Real Madrid in the Playoffs. After Tuesday’s results in the Premier League, Man City are third in the standings with 68 points and a win on Sunday will see them clinch a place in next season’s Champions League. However, failure to win coupled with other results, could see Pep Guardiola’s side finish as low as sixth, meaning they could miss out on a place in the premier continental competition. Man City will end the season against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has fired a warning at the team’s management as they close the season on Sunday (May 26).

'I will quit, make a shorter squad': Pep Guardiola fires warning at Man City management after poor season

Manchester United are all set to lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final as the two English giants meet on Wednesday (May 21). Playing at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, United can end a torrid season with a European trophy and Champions League qualification for next season. However, United manager Ruben Amorim believes continental glory won’t change anything as their struggles in the Premier League continue.<h2>Amorim opens up on United’s possible continental glory</h2>"Maybe people will look at our team in a different way because winning a European title is really important. It would help us to finish the season in a good note. But nothing is going to change our season. Players know it, the staff knows, the fans know, everybody knows," Amorim told a press conference.&nbsp;"Winning a European title can help us to have that feeling that can help us to build for the future, but that's it. I don't think we are playing for more than winning the title."&nbsp;Red Devils currently sit 16th on the Premier League table, their lowest in the competition’s history. However, they can rescue the season with Europa League glory, which also sees them qualify for the Champions League.&nbsp;Interestingly, despite their domestic struggles, the Red Devils have a flawless record in Europe, being the only side yet to taste defeat. They beat Lyon in a dramatic contest in the quarterfinal to advance 7-6 with three goals in Extra Time, while they completely demolished Athletic Bilbao in the semis.<h2>Spurs to stop United?</h2>While United are flawless in Europe, they have lost three times to Spurs this season, including a league double for the first time since the 1989-90 season. They also lost to Spurs in the League Cup quarterfinal in December. Spurs have also beaten teams from Manchester on five occasions this season while losing once.

Manchester United are all set to lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final as the two English giants meet on Wednesday (May 21).

Manchester United are all set to lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final as the two English giants meet on Wednesday (May 21). Playing at the San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, United can end a torrid season with a European trophy and Champions League qualification for next season. However, United manager Ruben Amorim believes continental glory won’t change anything as their struggles in the Premier League continue. Amorim opens up on United’s possible continental glory "Maybe people will look at our team in a different way because winning a European title is really important. It would help us to finish the season in a good note. But nothing is going to change our season. Players know it, the staff knows, the fans know, everybody knows," Amorim told a press conference. "Winning a European title can help us to have that feeling that can help us to build for the future, but that's it. I don't think we are playing for more than winning the title." Red Devils currently sit 16th on the Premier League table, their lowest in the competition’s history. However, they can rescue the season with Europa League glory, which also sees them qualify for the Champions League. Interestingly, despite their domestic struggles, the Red Devils have a flawless record in Europe, being the only side yet to taste defeat. They beat Lyon in a dramatic contest in the quarterfinal to advance 7-6 with three goals in Extra Time, while they completely demolished Athletic Bilbao in the semis. Spurs to stop United? While United are flawless in Europe, they have lost three times to Spurs this season, including a league double for the first time since the 1989-90 season. They also lost to Spurs in the League Cup quarterfinal in December. Spurs have also beaten teams from Manchester on five occasions this season while losing once.

Manchester United are all set to lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final as the two English giants meet on Wednesday (May 21).

Europa League final: Ruben Amorim unbaffled by 'possible continental glory', says 'nothing is going to change'

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all set to square off in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21) in what will be a season-defining evening for both sides. Sitting 16th and 17th in the Premier League, both teams have endured their worst Premier League campaign, but could rescue the season with a European trophy. The consolation prize for winning the Europa League will also see either side qualify for next season’s Champions League.&nbsp;<h2>Spurs-United set to meet in Europa League final</h2>&nbsp;Spurs and Man Utd will enter the Europa League final with European glory top of their agenda, having been near-flawless in the Europa League. While Spurs have lost only one match on their way to the final, Utd are the only team yet to taste defeat in Europe. On their way to the final, the Red Devils saw off competition from Lyon and Athletic Bilbao, with the former game serving a treat to the fans.&nbsp;On the other hand, Spurs have been professional with their performance and got the job done in the knockouts. They beat AZ Alkamar, Eintracht Frankfurt and Bodo/Glimt on their way to the summit clash.&nbsp;<h2>What does history say?</h2>&nbsp;This will be Tottenham’s sixth European final and, interestingly, a third all-English affair. The Lily Whites beat Wolves in the 1972 UEFA Cup final before losing to Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League final in Madrid.&nbsp;United, on the flip side, will play in their second all-English European final, having beaten Chelsea in the 2008 Champions League final.&nbsp;Spurs won the Europa League (then UEFA Cup) in 1972 and 1984, while United’s only win came in 2017 when they beat Ajax in the final.&nbsp;<h2>Head-to-head favours Spurs</h2>&nbsp;Spurs hold a recent edge over United in the head-to-head, having beaten them three times already this season. Spurs did a league double over United for the first time since the 1989-90 season while also beating them in a thriller in the League Cup. Interestingly, Spurs have not lost to United during the Ange Postecoglou era.&nbsp;Predicted Tottenham XI to face Man Utd&nbsp;Vicario, Porro, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie, Bentancur, Bissouma, Odobert, Johnson, Solanke, Son.&nbsp;Predicted Man Utd XI to face Tottenham&nbsp;Onana, Mazraoui, Maguire, Shaw, Amad, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund.&nbsp;Prediction: Going with recent form, we predict Tottenham Hotspur to beat Manchester United 3-1.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all set to square off in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21) in what will be a season-defining evening for both sides.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all set to square off in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21) in what will be a season-defining evening for both sides. Sitting 16th and 17th in the Premier League, both teams have endured their worst Premier League campaign, but could rescue the season with a European trophy. The consolation prize for winning the Europa League will also see either side qualify for next season’s Champions League. Spurs-United set to meet in Europa League final Spurs and Man Utd will enter the Europa League final with European glory top of their agenda, having been near-flawless in the Europa League. While Spurs have lost only one match on their way to the final, Utd are the only team yet to taste defeat in Europe. On their way to the final, the Red Devils saw off competition from Lyon and Athletic Bilbao, with the former game serving a treat to the fans. On the other hand, Spurs have been professional with their performance and got the job done in the knockouts. They beat AZ Alkamar, Eintracht Frankfurt and Bodo/Glimt on their way to the summit clash. What does history say? This will be Tottenham’s sixth European final and, interestingly, a third all-English affair. The Lily Whites beat Wolves in the 1972 UEFA Cup final before losing to Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League final in Madrid. United, on the flip side, will play in their second all-English European final, having beaten Chelsea in the 2008 Champions League final. Spurs won the Europa League (then UEFA Cup) in 1972 and 1984, while United’s only win came in 2017 when they beat Ajax in the final. Head-to-head favours Spurs Spurs hold a recent edge over United in the head-to-head, having beaten them three times already this season. Spurs did a league double over United for the first time since the 1989-90 season while also beating them in a thriller in the League Cup. Interestingly, Spurs have not lost to United during the Ange Postecoglou era. Predicted Tottenham XI to face Man Utd Vicario, Porro, Romero, van de Ven, Udogie, Bentancur, Bissouma, Odobert, Johnson, Solanke, Son. Predicted Man Utd XI to face Tottenham Onana, Mazraoui, Maguire, Shaw, Amad, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund. Prediction: Going with recent form, we predict Tottenham Hotspur to beat Manchester United 3-1.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are all set to square off in the Europa League final on Wednesday (May 21) in what will be a season-defining evening for both sides.

Europa League Final Preview: Continental glory awaits as Spurs, Man Utd lock horns in Bilbao

The Argentine court trying the medical team of late football legend Diego Maradona over his death suspended the trial on Tuesday for a week over questions about a judge's impartiality.&nbsp;The court ordered the suspension after defense lawyers said that the judge's involvement in a documentary about the case constituted a possible breach of her duty of impartiality, as well as possible influence peddling and even bribery.&nbsp;Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari said the pause was ordered "to resolve an issue ... of institutional gravity."&nbsp;Two defense lawyers asked for the judge, Julieta Makintach, to be recused from the two-month-old trial.&nbsp;At issue is the alleged use of cameras in the courtroom in violation of a ban on filming the trial.&nbsp;The prosecutor's office will investigate whether the rule was broken and what part, if any, Makintach played in the transgression.&nbsp;Makintach told the court Tuesday that she could "understand the concerns of all.""But I am convinced of my impartiality," she said, adding that she would consider recusing herself from the case if there were doubts over the matter.&nbsp;The presiding judge, Maximiliano Savarino, said the trial would resume on May 27.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-mumbai-indians-delhi-capitals-to-scramble-for-final-playoffs-spot-after-srh-win-ousts-lsg-1747709716601">IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals to scramble for final Playoffs spot after SRH win ousts LSG</a><h2>Dark, lonely' deathbed</h2> Maradona died on November 25, 2020 at age 60, while recovering at home from brain surgery for a blood clot, after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions. &nbsp;He died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema two weeks after going under the knife.&nbsp;He was found dead in bed by his day nurse.&nbsp;His seven-person medical team is on trial in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro over the conditions of his convalescence at a private home in the nearby suburb of Tigre.Prosecutors have described the football icon's care in his last days as grossly negligent.&nbsp;The defendants risk prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of "homicide with possible intent" -- pursuing a course of action despite knowing it could lead to death.The case so far has focused on the decision by Maradona's doctors to allow him recuperate at home, with minimal supervision and with minimal medical equipment, instead of in a medical facility.&nbsp;Testifying in court last week, Maradona's daughter Gianinna accused her father's carers of keeping him in "a dark, ugly and lonely" place and said they seemed more interested in money than his welfare.&nbsp;So far only one of the defendants, Maradona's psychiatrist, has been called to the stand.The passing of the star of the 1986 World Cup plunged Argentina into mourning in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Tens of thousands of people queued to bid farewell to the former Boca Juniors and Napoli striker as his body lay in state at the presidential palace.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Argentine court trying the medical team of late football legend Diego Maradona over his death suspended the trial on Tuesday for a week over questions about a judge's impartiality.

The Argentine court trying the medical team of late football legend Diego Maradona over his death suspended the trial on Tuesday for a week over questions about a judge's impartiality. The court ordered the suspension after defense lawyers said that the judge's involvement in a documentary about the case constituted a possible breach of her duty of impartiality, as well as possible influence peddling and even bribery. Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari said the pause was ordered "to resolve an issue ... of institutional gravity." Two defense lawyers asked for the judge, Julieta Makintach, to be recused from the two-month-old trial. At issue is the alleged use of cameras in the courtroom in violation of a ban on filming the trial. The prosecutor's office will investigate whether the rule was broken and what part, if any, Makintach played in the transgression. Makintach told the court Tuesday that she could "understand the concerns of all." "But I am convinced of my impartiality," she said, adding that she would consider recusing herself from the case if there were doubts over the matter. The presiding judge, Maximiliano Savarino, said the trial would resume on May 27. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals to scramble for final Playoffs spot after SRH win ousts LSG Dark, lonely' deathbed Maradona died on November 25, 2020 at age 60, while recovering at home from brain surgery for a blood clot, after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions. He died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema two weeks after going under the knife. He was found dead in bed by his day nurse. His seven-person medical team is on trial in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro over the conditions of his convalescence at a private home in the nearby suburb of Tigre. Prosecutors have described the football icon's care in his last days as grossly negligent. The defendants risk prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of "homicide with possible intent" -- pursuing a course of action despite knowing it could lead to death. The case so far has focused on the decision by Maradona's doctors to allow him recuperate at home, with minimal supervision and with minimal medical equipment, instead of in a medical facility. Testifying in court last week, Maradona's daughter Gianinna accused her father's carers of keeping him in "a dark, ugly and lonely" place and said they seemed more interested in money than his welfare. So far only one of the defendants, Maradona's psychiatrist, has been called to the stand. The passing of the star of the 1986 World Cup plunged Argentina into mourning in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tens of thousands of people queued to bid farewell to the former Boca Juniors and Napoli striker as his body lay in state at the presidential palace. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Argentine court trying the medical team of late football legend Diego Maradona over his death suspended the trial on Tuesday for a week over questions about a judge's impartiality.

Diego Maradona death trial suspended as judge's impartiality questioned

Manchester United stars <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/harry-maguire">Harry Maguire</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/andre-onana">Andre Onana</a> and Diogo Dalot are all set for their maiden visit to India, to launch United We Play 2025, the fifth season of its flagship grassroots football initiative. This is the second time that Manchester United players are visiting the country, with David De Gea, Anthony Elanga and Donny van de Beek visiting Goa in December 2022.
The three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manchester-united">Manchester United</a> current team players will be in Mumbai on May 29 to officially launch and kickstart activities for the fifth season of the United We Play programme. During their first visit to India, the footballers will also engage with supporters and fans of the Club, along with Apollo Tyres&rsquo; grassroots football initiative.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-there-is-something-different-about-royal-challengers-bengaluru-this-season-says-former-csk-all-rounder-9076214">IPL 2025: 'There is something different about Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season', says former CSK all-rounder</a>
Supported by Manchester United, United We Play is a pan-India initiative to support young footballers in India by giving them a platform to showcase their skills with the objective of motivating aspiring footballers to continue playing, by engaging with them, and introducing them to global training methods.
<h2>'Looking forward to engaging with everyone in India'</h2>
Andr&eacute; Onana, Manchester United&rsquo;s goalkeeper, said: &ldquo;We are looking forward to engaging with everyone in India to launch the new season of United We Play and promote our sport to the next generation of stars. We are also excited to see the fans over there, to thank them for their passionate and loyal support.&rdquo;
Rajesh Dahiya, Vice President, Commercial (India, SAARC and Southeast Asia), Apollo Tyres Ltd said, &ldquo;The fourth season of United We Play concluded last year with a visit from Manchester United legend Gary Neville, wherein more than 15,000 young footballers from across the country participated. It reached out to 18 cities pan-India and over 100 coaches were engaged through virtual Manchester United Soccer Schools training sessions, ensuring that the teachings and training methods reached every footballer involved in the programme. In addition, the initiative was also expanded to more cities in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions across cities such as Kathmandu, Bangkok, Dhaka and Dubai.&rdquo;

Football, Sports: The three Man United current team players will be in Mumbai to officially launch and kickstart activities for fifth season of United We Play programme

Manchester United stars Harry Maguire, Andre Onana and Diogo Dalot are all set for their maiden visit to India, to launch United We Play 2025, the fifth season of its flagship grassroots football initiative. This is the second time that Manchester United players are visiting the country, with David De Gea, Anthony Elanga and Donny van de Beek visiting Goa in December 2022. The three Manchester United current team players will be in Mumbai on May 29 to officially launch and kickstart activities for the fifth season of the United We Play programme. During their first visit to India, the footballers will also engage with supporters and fans of the Club, along with Apollo Tyres’ grassroots football initiative. Also Read: IPL 2025: 'There is something different about Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season', says former CSK all-rounder Supported by Manchester United, United We Play is a pan-India initiative to support young footballers in India by giving them a platform to showcase their skills with the objective of motivating aspiring footballers to continue playing, by engaging with them, and introducing them to global training methods. 'Looking forward to engaging with everyone in India' André Onana, Manchester United’s goalkeeper, said: “We are looking forward to engaging with everyone in India to launch the new season of United We Play and promote our sport to the next generation of stars. We are also excited to see the fans over there, to thank them for their passionate and loyal support.” Rajesh Dahiya, Vice President, Commercial (India, SAARC and Southeast Asia), Apollo Tyres Ltd said, “The fourth season of United We Play concluded last year with a visit from Manchester United legend Gary Neville, wherein more than 15,000 young footballers from across the country participated. It reached out to 18 cities pan-India and over 100 coaches were engaged through virtual Manchester United Soccer Schools training sessions, ensuring that the teachings and training methods reached every footballer involved in the programme. In addition, the initiative was also expanded to more cities in the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions across cities such as Kathmandu, Bangkok, Dhaka and Dubai.”

Manchester United’s Harry Maguire, Andre Onana and Diogo Dalot to visit India

Ruben Amorim believes the best preparation for Manchester United ahead of the Europa League final would be to shock Chelsea in Friday's Premier League clash rather than resting his key players.
United sit 16th in the English top flight, just outside the relegation zone, after their worst ever Premier League season by some distance.
Amorim has won just six of his 25 league games since taking charge in November.
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However, the Europa League offers the chance of salvation with a place in next season's lucrative Champions League on offer for the winner as well as a major European trophy.
"We cannot spend eight days, nine days without a game. That is a bad thing for the final," said Amorim.
"The best way is to face the game like we should face the game -- it is to win the game. We need to perform, we need to win points in the Premier League and that is the feeling.
"The players have to understand that if you play or don't play against Chelsea, it means nothing to the final. That is important.
"I am just preparing the game of Chelsea. That is my focus and we want to win and to perform."
Defenders Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro are all expected to miss the trip to London with their participation in the final in doubt.
Chelsea must win at Stamford Bridge to keep their hopes of Champions League qualification via a top-five finish in their own hands.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Europa League offers the chance of salvation with a place in next season's lucrative Champions League on offer for the winner as well as a major European trophy. Sports Football

Ruben Amorim believes the best preparation for Manchester United ahead of the Europa League final would be to shock Chelsea in Friday's Premier League clash rather than resting his key players. United sit 16th in the English top flight, just outside the relegation zone, after their worst ever Premier League season by some distance. Amorim has won just six of his 25 league games since taking charge in November. Also Read - French Open 2025: Aussie Nick Kyrgios set to play at Roland Garros first time since 2017, pairs up with Jordan Thompson for doubles However, the Europa League offers the chance of salvation with a place in next season's lucrative Champions League on offer for the winner as well as a major European trophy. "We cannot spend eight days, nine days without a game. That is a bad thing for the final," said Amorim. "The best way is to face the game like we should face the game -- it is to win the game. We need to perform, we need to win points in the Premier League and that is the feeling. "The players have to understand that if you play or don't play against Chelsea, it means nothing to the final. That is important. "I am just preparing the game of Chelsea. That is my focus and we want to win and to perform." Defenders Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro are all expected to miss the trip to London with their participation in the final in doubt. Chelsea must win at Stamford Bridge to keep their hopes of Champions League qualification via a top-five finish in their own hands. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Premier League: Ruben Amorim urges Man Utd to focus on Chelsea instead of Europa League final

Bologna defeats AC Milan in the final, securing their first major title since 1974 and sparking huge celebrations. Watch this report for more details!

Bologna won first major title in 51 years, defeated AC Milan in the final

Everton FC's historic Goodison Park stadium has been saved from demolition and will instead become the new home of the Everton Women's team. This move will make Goodison Park the largest women's football stadium in the UK. Watch to know more!

Goodison Park to become new home of Everton women's team

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has announced that they have decided to expand the number of participating teams in the Women&rsquo;s World Cup from 32 to 48 as of the 2031 edition, following a FIFA Council meeting on Friday.
The decision, taken at a meeting held virtually, will significantly broaden representation, offering more nations and players access to elite competition and accelerating investment in women&rsquo;s football worldwide.
The 48-team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=fifa" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">FIFA </a>Women&rsquo;s World Cup will adopt a 12-group format, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 and extending the tournament by one week. The hosting requirements for the 2031 and 2035 editions of the FIFA Women&rsquo;s World Cup have been adapted accordingly.
&ldquo;This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Women&rsquo;s World Cup but taking the next steps about the women&rsquo;s game in general by ensuring that more FIFA Member Associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women&rsquo;s football structures from a holistic point of view,&rdquo; said FIFA President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Gianni+Infantino" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gianni Infantino</a>.
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&ldquo;The FIFA Women&rsquo;s World Cup 2023, the first in which teams from all confederations won at least one game and teams from five confederations reached the knockout stage, among many other records, set a new standard for global competitiveness. This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women&rsquo;s football globally,&rdquo; he added.
The Council equally approved the FIFA Strategy for Action for Afghan Women&rsquo;s Football, which foresees the establishment of the Afghan women&rsquo;s refugee team (AWRT) and provided the administration with a mandate to organise and facilitate its operations to start its activities as soon as possible.
&ldquo;This is a landmark initiative. FIFA is committed to giving every girl the possibility to play football,&rdquo; added the FIFA President.
The first edition of the FIFA Women's World Cup was held in China in 1991 with 12 teams. The last edition of the event was hosted by Australia and New Zealand, with Spain winning the title. The next edition will be held in 2027, while the United States will host the 2031 edition.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 48-team FIFA Women’s World Cup will adopt a 12-group format, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 and extending the tournament by one week. FIFA World Cup | women football | FIFA president Gianni Infantino

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has announced that they have decided to expand the number of participating teams in the Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 as of the 2031 edition, following a FIFA Council meeting on Friday. The decision, taken at a meeting held virtually, will significantly broaden representation, offering more nations and players access to elite competition and accelerating investment in women’s football worldwide. The 48-team FIFA Women’s World Cup will adopt a 12-group format, increasing the total number of matches from 64 to 104 and extending the tournament by one week. The hosting requirements for the 2031 and 2035 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup have been adapted accordingly. “This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup but taking the next steps about the women’s game in general by ensuring that more FIFA Member Associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women’s football structures from a holistic point of view,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Also Read | Virat Kohli tells BCCI he wants to quit Test cricket, board urges him to reconsider “The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, the first in which teams from all confederations won at least one game and teams from five confederations reached the knockout stage, among many other records, set a new standard for global competitiveness. This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women’s football globally,” he added. The Council equally approved the FIFA Strategy for Action for Afghan Women’s Football, which foresees the establishment of the Afghan women’s refugee team (AWRT) and provided the administration with a mandate to organise and facilitate its operations to start its activities as soon as possible. “This is a landmark initiative. FIFA is committed to giving every girl the possibility to play football,” added the FIFA President. The first edition of the FIFA Women's World Cup was held in China in 1991 with 12 teams. The last edition of the event was hosted by Australia and New Zealand, with Spain winning the title. The next edition will be held in 2027, while the United States will host the 2031 edition. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

FIFA approves expansion of Women’s World Cup to 48 teams starting with 2031 edition

Paris Saint-Germain clinched a place in the Champions League final as goals by Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi gave them a 2-1 win over Arsenal in the second leg of their last-four tie on Wednesday, securing a 3-1 aggregate triumph.
Ruiz crashed in a shot from the edge of the area in the 27th minute at the Parc des Princes to leave PSG firmly in the driving seat after they had withstood an early bombardment from the visitors.
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Already leading in the tie after Ousmane Dembele's goal in last week's first leg, PSG then saw Vitinha have a second-half penalty saved.
However, Hakimi put the tie beyond Arsenal when he scored in the 72nd minute, even if Bukayo Saka did then pull one back for the visitors.
PSG advance to a showdown in Munich on May 31 against Inter Milan, and it will be the second Champions League final in their history, five years after a defeat by Bayern Munich in Lisbon.
Arsenal, meanwhile, saw their European dream come to an end as they fell short of reaching what would have been their second final, 19 years after losing to Barcelona in Paris.
Still without a trophy since the 2020 FA Cup, all that is left to play for now for Mikel Arteta's side is securing a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League.
There was an electric atmosphere all evening in Paris, and PSG were able to celebrate getting to a final in front of their fans for the first time, after their victory against RB Leipzig in the last four in 2020 was played behind closed doors during the pandemic.
There was a feverish mood in and around the ground pre-match, but PSG have tripped up in big Champions League ties plenty of times over the last decade.
In addition, their top scorer Dembele was not in the starting line-up having come off with a hamstring problem in the first leg.
<h2>Gunners bombardment</h2>
Arsenal, with Thomas Partey back in midfield after missing the first leg through suspension, did their best to silence the raucous home support by throwing everything at the Parisians right from the off.
Declan Rice headed just wide, and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Gabriel Martinelli from close range before producing a stunning save low to his left to keep out a Martin Odegaard shot, all inside the opening eight minutes.
PSG did eventually settle, and they almost went ahead on 17 minutes when Desire Doue teed up Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, whose curling shot hit the far post.
Then Doue wasted a great chance, shooting straight at David Raya in the Arsenal goal after Bradley Barcola had intercepted a loose ball.
But PSG did score before the half-hour mark, the goal coming in the wake of a free-kick awarded for a Rice foul on Kvaratskhelia.
Vitinha's delivery was headed out by Partey but fell to Ruiz on the edge of the box, and he controlled before smashing in a left-foot shot as the ball bounced back up.
It was the ideal moment for the 29-year-old Spaniard to score his first Champions League goal.
Barcola failed to convert a good chance for the hosts to score again moments later, and Arsenal still had some hope going into the second half.
Only another stunning Donnarumma save with his fingertips prevented Saka from pulling one back on 64 minutes, before PSG were awarded a spot-kick.
German referee Felix Zwayer gave the penalty after being summoned to the pitchside monitor when a shot by Hakimi brushed the outstretched hand of Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Arteta was furious at the decision, yet Vitinha's kick was turned away by Raya diving to his left.
Nevertheless, PSG made it 2-0 on the night when Dembele, on from the bench, teed up Hakimi to finish in style.
This being PSG, however, there was a wobble as Saka quickly pulled one back from close range after Arsenal substitute Leandro Trossard had got the better of Marquinhos on the wing.
Saka then somehow blazed over with an open goal gaping from Riccardo Calafiori's cross, ensuring that there would be no miracle Arsenal comeback and it would be PSG's night.
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PSG advance to a showdown in Munich on May 31 against Inter Milan, and it will be the second Champions League final in their history, five years after a defeat by Bayern Munich. Football Sports

Paris Saint-Germain clinched a place in the Champions League final as goals by Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi gave them a 2-1 win over Arsenal in the second leg of their last-four tie on Wednesday, securing a 3-1 aggregate triumph. Ruiz crashed in a shot from the edge of the area in the 27th minute at the Parc des Princes to leave PSG firmly in the driving seat after they had withstood an early bombardment from the visitors. Also Read - Champions League: Davide Frattesi shoots Inter Milan into final after thrilling end against Barcelona Already leading in the tie after Ousmane Dembele's goal in last week's first leg, PSG then saw Vitinha have a second-half penalty saved. However, Hakimi put the tie beyond Arsenal when he scored in the 72nd minute, even if Bukayo Saka did then pull one back for the visitors. PSG advance to a showdown in Munich on May 31 against Inter Milan, and it will be the second Champions League final in their history, five years after a defeat by Bayern Munich in Lisbon. Arsenal, meanwhile, saw their European dream come to an end as they fell short of reaching what would have been their second final, 19 years after losing to Barcelona in Paris. Still without a trophy since the 2020 FA Cup, all that is left to play for now for Mikel Arteta's side is securing a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League. There was an electric atmosphere all evening in Paris, and PSG were able to celebrate getting to a final in front of their fans for the first time, after their victory against RB Leipzig in the last four in 2020 was played behind closed doors during the pandemic. There was a feverish mood in and around the ground pre-match, but PSG have tripped up in big Champions League ties plenty of times over the last decade. In addition, their top scorer Dembele was not in the starting line-up having come off with a hamstring problem in the first leg. Gunners bombardment Arsenal, with Thomas Partey back in midfield after missing the first leg through suspension, did their best to silence the raucous home support by throwing everything at the Parisians right from the off. Declan Rice headed just wide, and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Gabriel Martinelli from close range before producing a stunning save low to his left to keep out a Martin Odegaard shot, all inside the opening eight minutes. PSG did eventually settle, and they almost went ahead on 17 minutes when Desire Doue teed up Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, whose curling shot hit the far post. Then Doue wasted a great chance, shooting straight at David Raya in the Arsenal goal after Bradley Barcola had intercepted a loose ball. But PSG did score before the half-hour mark, the goal coming in the wake of a free-kick awarded for a Rice foul on Kvaratskhelia. Vitinha's delivery was headed out by Partey but fell to Ruiz on the edge of the box, and he controlled before smashing in a left-foot shot as the ball bounced back up. It was the ideal moment for the 29-year-old Spaniard to score his first Champions League goal. Barcola failed to convert a good chance for the hosts to score again moments later, and Arsenal still had some hope going into the second half. Only another stunning Donnarumma save with his fingertips prevented Saka from pulling one back on 64 minutes, before PSG were awarded a spot-kick. German referee Felix Zwayer gave the penalty after being summoned to the pitchside monitor when a shot by Hakimi brushed the outstretched hand of Myles Lewis-Skelly. Arteta was furious at the decision, yet Vitinha's kick was turned away by Raya diving to his left. Nevertheless, PSG made it 2-0 on the night when Dembele, on from the bench, teed up Hakimi to finish in style. This being PSG, however, there was a wobble as Saka quickly pulled one back from close range after Arsenal substitute Leandro Trossard had got the better of Marquinhos on the wing. Saka then somehow blazed over with an open goal gaping from Riccardo Calafiori's cross, ensuring that there would be no miracle Arsenal comeback and it would be PSG's night. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: PSG in final after Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi goals against Arsenal

Paris Saint-Germain forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ousmane-dembele" rel="dofollow">Ousmane Dembele</a>, who suffered a hamstring injury last week, has been passed fit to play in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-league">Champions League</a> semi-final second leg against Arsenal, coach Luis Enrique said on Tuesday.
Dembele came off in the 70th minute of the first leg in London, after scoring the only goal of the game in the fourth minute, prompting the coach to suggest after the match that there was "a doubt" over his chances of playing in Wednesday's return match.
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He missed Saturday's Ligue 1 defeat against Strasbourg but resumed training at the start of the week.
<h2>'He's been training for the last two days'&nbsp;</h2>
"He's been training with us for the last two days," said Luis Enrique. "You saw him today, a normal training session for him. He'll be available tomorrow."&nbsp;
The France international has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/psg">PSG</a>'s star performer this season, scoring 33 goals in all competitions.
South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in also took part in the team training session following the knock he received in Strasbourg.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ousmane Dembele, who suffered a hamstring injury last week, has been passed fit to play in their Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal. Football Sports

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele, who suffered a hamstring injury last week, has been passed fit to play in their Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal, coach Luis Enrique said on Tuesday. Dembele came off in the 70th minute of the first leg in London, after scoring the only goal of the game in the fourth minute, prompting the coach to suggest after the match that there was "a doubt" over his chances of playing in Wednesday's return match. Also Read - Italian Open: World no. 1 Jannik Sinner returns after serving three-month doping ban He missed Saturday's Ligue 1 defeat against Strasbourg but resumed training at the start of the week. 'He's been training for the last two days' "He's been training with us for the last two days," said Luis Enrique. "You saw him today, a normal training session for him. He'll be available tomorrow." The France international has been PSG's star performer this season, scoring 33 goals in all competitions. South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in also took part in the team training session following the knock he received in Strasbourg. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: PSG's Ousmane Dembele fit to play in semis second-leg against Arsenal

Ruben Amorim said Manchester United must "take a risk" by rotating players as he prioritises Europa League glory over improving their woeful position in the Premier League.
United have one foot in the final after an impressive 3-0 win at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, with Tottenham their likely opponents if they reach the showpiece match, also in Bilbao.
Winning the Europa League guarantees a place in next season's Champions League, bringing with it a financial windfall and making it easier to attract top players.
United are unbeaten in Europe this season but are a lowly 14th in the Premier League with four games to go -- heading for their lowest league finish since they were relegated in 1974.
They travel to face mid-table Brentford in London on Sunday.&nbsp;
United manager Amorim said it was tough to balance the demands of the Europa League and Premier League but he made it clear that players at risk of getting injured would not play "no matter what".
"In this moment it is hard," he said. "It is hard to separate. We know that we have always a responsibility but in this moment we have to take a risk.
"There are some positions that we don't have more players," he added. "For example, (defender) Noussair Mazraoui (who featured against Athletic) cannot play (on Sunday). He is in the limit to get an injury."
Amorim acknowledged that the club must be competitive in every game, regardless of their league position.
"We have to be careful because we are Manchester United and we cannot go to a game without thinking we can win this game," he said.
"So the process is going to be like that, it is going to be tough. But we passed so many things this year, this one more."&nbsp;
Amorim was able to bring Amad Diallo off the substitutes' bench in Spain for his first appearance since he suffered an ankle injury in February, admitting that the return of the forward was "massive".
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Winning the Europa League guarantees a place in next season's Champions League, bringing with it a financial windfall and making it easier to attract top players. Football Sports

Ruben Amorim said Manchester United must "take a risk" by rotating players as he prioritises Europa League glory over improving their woeful position in the Premier League. United have one foot in the final after an impressive 3-0 win at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, with Tottenham their likely opponents if they reach the showpiece match, also in Bilbao. Winning the Europa League guarantees a place in next season's Champions League, bringing with it a financial windfall and making it easier to attract top players. United are unbeaten in Europe this season but are a lowly 14th in the Premier League with four games to go -- heading for their lowest league finish since they were relegated in 1974. They travel to face mid-table Brentford in London on Sunday. United manager Amorim said it was tough to balance the demands of the Europa League and Premier League but he made it clear that players at risk of getting injured would not play "no matter what". "In this moment it is hard," he said. "It is hard to separate. We know that we have always a responsibility but in this moment we have to take a risk. "There are some positions that we don't have more players," he added. "For example, (defender) Noussair Mazraoui (who featured against Athletic) cannot play (on Sunday). He is in the limit to get an injury." Amorim acknowledged that the club must be competitive in every game, regardless of their league position. "We have to be careful because we are Manchester United and we cannot go to a game without thinking we can win this game," he said. "So the process is going to be like that, it is going to be tough. But we passed so many things this year, this one more." Amorim was able to bring Amad Diallo off the substitutes' bench in Spain for his first appearance since he suffered an ankle injury in February, admitting that the return of the forward was "massive". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Looking at worst Premier League finish since relegation in 1974, Amorim and Manchester United set eyes on Europa League glory

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/copa-del-rey">Copa del Rey</a> Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a>.
The Catalans, aiming for a quadruple this season, won the first major trophy of Hansi Flick's reign as coach and a record-extending 32nd Spanish cup in dramatic fashion.
Three Real Madrid players were sent off during and after a fiery conclusion to the game, including England international <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jude-bellingham">Jude Bellingham</a>.&nbsp;Pedri sent Barcelona ahead at La Cartuja but two Real Madrid goals in seven second-half minutes, from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, pulled the Spanish and European champions level.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-mitchell-marsh-backs-underfire-skipper-rishabh-pant-says-hes-just-getting-9005930">IPL 2025: Mitchell Marsh backs underfire skipper Rishabh Pant, says 'he's just getting...'</a>
However, Ferran Torres struck in the 84th minute to take the game to extra-time and Kounde drilled home to win it for the La Liga leaders.
"Madrid pushed us to our limits but we showed great character and pride," said Kounde.
Barca host Inter Milan in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-league">Champions League</a> semi-finals on Wednesday.&nbsp;"They can make a party -- for today, it's OK," a delighted Flick, who has won all seven finals he has coached in his career, told Movistar.
Substituted Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger was sent off in the final seconds for "throwing an object" onto the pitch towards referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, according to the official's report, and Lucas Vazquez, also replaced, was dismissed for further protest as Madrid unravelled.
Bellingham was sent off after the final whistle for showing an "aggressive attitude" towards the referee, who wrote that the midfielder "had to be restrained by his team-mates".
"I don't want to talk about the referee," said stone-faced Madrid coach Ancelotti.&nbsp;"I don't know what happened at the end."
Madrid had issued furious statements about the refereeing team on Friday after they criticised the club's television channel for attacking Spanish officials this season, casting a shadow over the game.
Controversy aside, the football was enthralling.&nbsp;Madrid started with top scorer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kylian-mbappe">Mbappe</a> on the bench after an ankle injury and lost Ferland Mendy early on with a thigh issue.
Barcelona dazzling winger Lamine Yamal, 17, dyed his hair blond for the game and led the assault on Thibaut Courtois' goal.&nbsp;The Catalans, who also won the first two Clasicos this season in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, scoring nine goals in the process, controlled the ball.
They took the lead after 28 minutes, Pedri placing the ball into the top corner with precision and power from the edge of the box, a sensational goal set up by Yamal.
Barcelona's opener brought Madrid out of their shell -- and also Mbappe off the bench to warm up.&nbsp;Bellingham netted but was offside. Vinicius Junior would have won a penalty when hacked down but had also strayed off in the build-up.
Barcelona could have doubled their lead, with Dani Olmo's corner hitting the post and Cubarsi unable to turn home as Dani Ceballos held him back.
The referee was lenient with some heated Madrid tackles, perhaps cowed by Friday's drama as the Spanish champions seethed at his pre-match comments.
Madrid sent Mbappe on for Rodrygo Goes at half-time and soon he and Vinicius began to work Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
<h2>End to end</h2>
Mbappe pulled Madrid level almost on his own in the 70th minute, brought down after surging forward and firing home the free-kick off the post.
Seven minutes later Madrid took the lead, Tchouameni heading in Arda Guler's corner.&nbsp;Barcelona responded when Yamal played a delicious pass over the top for Torres, which drew both Rudiger and Courtois, but the Spaniard beat both and rolled home.
Controversy unsurprisingly reared its head before the match headed to extra-time.&nbsp;Barcelona clamoured for a penalty when Rudiger tripped Torres, and then were awarded one deep in stoppage time as Raphinha tumbled under pressure -- but the decision was overturned after a VAR review.
In extra-time Barcelona were ascendent.
They found their winner when Kounde intercepted an uncharacteristically loose Luka Modric pass and beat Courtois from range, sparking wild celebrations.
The trio of dismissals and Madrid's pre-match histrionics regarding the officials will ensure the repercussions run on.&nbsp;The teams meet again in La Liga in May in a potential title decider.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Football, Sports: The Catalans, aiming for a quadruple this season, won the first major trophy of Hansi Flick's reign as coach and a record-extending 32nd Spanish Cup

Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep in extra-time to decide a gripping Copa del Rey Clasico final on Saturday in Seville, earning his side a 3-2 win over rivals Real Madrid. The Catalans, aiming for a quadruple this season, won the first major trophy of Hansi Flick's reign as coach and a record-extending 32nd Spanish cup in dramatic fashion. Three Real Madrid players were sent off during and after a fiery conclusion to the game, including England international Jude Bellingham. Pedri sent Barcelona ahead at La Cartuja but two Real Madrid goals in seven second-half minutes, from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, pulled the Spanish and European champions level. Also Read: IPL 2025: Mitchell Marsh backs underfire skipper Rishabh Pant, says 'he's just getting...' However, Ferran Torres struck in the 84th minute to take the game to extra-time and Kounde drilled home to win it for the La Liga leaders. "Madrid pushed us to our limits but we showed great character and pride," said Kounde. Barca host Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday. "They can make a party -- for today, it's OK," a delighted Flick, who has won all seven finals he has coached in his career, told Movistar. Substituted Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger was sent off in the final seconds for "throwing an object" onto the pitch towards referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, according to the official's report, and Lucas Vazquez, also replaced, was dismissed for further protest as Madrid unravelled. Bellingham was sent off after the final whistle for showing an "aggressive attitude" towards the referee, who wrote that the midfielder "had to be restrained by his team-mates". "I don't want to talk about the referee," said stone-faced Madrid coach Ancelotti. "I don't know what happened at the end." Madrid had issued furious statements about the refereeing team on Friday after they criticised the club's television channel for attacking Spanish officials this season, casting a shadow over the game. Controversy aside, the football was enthralling. Madrid started with top scorer Mbappe on the bench after an ankle injury and lost Ferland Mendy early on with a thigh issue. Barcelona dazzling winger Lamine Yamal, 17, dyed his hair blond for the game and led the assault on Thibaut Courtois' goal. The Catalans, who also won the first two Clasicos this season in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, scoring nine goals in the process, controlled the ball. They took the lead after 28 minutes, Pedri placing the ball into the top corner with precision and power from the edge of the box, a sensational goal set up by Yamal. Barcelona's opener brought Madrid out of their shell -- and also Mbappe off the bench to warm up. Bellingham netted but was offside. Vinicius Junior would have won a penalty when hacked down but had also strayed off in the build-up. Barcelona could have doubled their lead, with Dani Olmo's corner hitting the post and Cubarsi unable to turn home as Dani Ceballos held him back. The referee was lenient with some heated Madrid tackles, perhaps cowed by Friday's drama as the Spanish champions seethed at his pre-match comments. Madrid sent Mbappe on for Rodrygo Goes at half-time and soon he and Vinicius began to work Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. End to end Mbappe pulled Madrid level almost on his own in the 70th minute, brought down after surging forward and firing home the free-kick off the post. Seven minutes later Madrid took the lead, Tchouameni heading in Arda Guler's corner. Barcelona responded when Yamal played a delicious pass over the top for Torres, which drew both Rudiger and Courtois, but the Spaniard beat both and rolled home. Controversy unsurprisingly reared its head before the match headed to extra-time. Barcelona clamoured for a penalty when Rudiger tripped Torres, and then were awarded one deep in stoppage time as Raphinha tumbled under pressure -- but the decision was overturned after a VAR review. In extra-time Barcelona were ascendent. They found their winner when Kounde intercepted an uncharacteristically loose Luka Modric pass and beat Courtois from range, sparking wild celebrations. The trio of dismissals and Madrid's pre-match histrionics regarding the officials will ensure the repercussions run on. The teams meet again in La Liga in May in a potential title decider. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Copa del Rey final: Barcelona edge Real Madrid in extra-time to lift trophy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/matheus-nunes" rel="dofollow">Matheus Nunes</a> says Champions League qualification would be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manchester-city">Manchester City</a>'s "Premier League trophy" after a poor campaign by their stellar standards.
The Portugal international scored a last-gasp winner against Aston Villa on Tuesday to lift Pep Guardiola's men to third in the table, four points ahead of seventh-placed Villa.&nbsp;With Liverpool on the brink of the Premier League title and Arsenal sitting comfortably in second place, five clubs are battling for the three remaining places in Europe's top club competition next season.
Nottingham Forest, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/newcastle-united">Newcastle United</a> and Chelsea are the other sides in the mix for a top-five finish. City, who were hunting a fifth straight league title at the start of the season, suffered a costly collapse in form from late October.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/cricket-former-pakistan-pacer-mohammad-amir-breaks-silence-on-retirement-from-international-cricket-8994033">Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir breaks silence on retirement from international cricket</a>
But they can still end their season on a high, with Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Forest at Wembley coming hot on the heels of their vital win against Unai Emery's Villa.
<h2>'Club's standards are much higher than this'</h2>
"This is our Premier League trophy now, to qualify for the Champions League," Nunes said after scoring his first league goal for City in his second season at the club.
"I think it's massively important for us, in terms of everything, the club, in terms of the players, the mentality."
The 26-year-old admitted though that Champions League qualification for the 15th season running and FA Cup glory would not equal a good campaign.&nbsp;"The club's standards are much higher than this," he said. "We know that there is not the standards we want this club to be at.
"But this is our reality now and we have to accept it. And we just have to go for it like it's the Champions League, the Premier League trophy."

Football, Sports: Manchester City, who were hunting a fifth straight league title at the start of the season, suffered a costly collapse in form from late October 2024

Matheus Nunes says Champions League qualification would be Manchester City's "Premier League trophy" after a poor campaign by their stellar standards. The Portugal international scored a last-gasp winner against Aston Villa on Tuesday to lift Pep Guardiola's men to third in the table, four points ahead of seventh-placed Villa. With Liverpool on the brink of the Premier League title and Arsenal sitting comfortably in second place, five clubs are battling for the three remaining places in Europe's top club competition next season. Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Chelsea are the other sides in the mix for a top-five finish. City, who were hunting a fifth straight league title at the start of the season, suffered a costly collapse in form from late October. Also Read: Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir breaks silence on retirement from international cricket But they can still end their season on a high, with Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Forest at Wembley coming hot on the heels of their vital win against Unai Emery's Villa. 'Club's standards are much higher than this' "This is our Premier League trophy now, to qualify for the Champions League," Nunes said after scoring his first league goal for City in his second season at the club. "I think it's massively important for us, in terms of everything, the club, in terms of the players, the mentality." The 26-year-old admitted though that Champions League qualification for the 15th season running and FA Cup glory would not equal a good campaign. "The club's standards are much higher than this," he said. "We know that there is not the standards we want this club to be at. "But this is our reality now and we have to accept it. And we just have to go for it like it's the Champions League, the Premier League trophy."

Champions League spot would be 'Premier League trophy' for Manchester City: Nunes

Manchester United's 2024-25 season is clouded with inconsistency, frustration and they are on course for their worst season ever, &nbsp;when it comes to Premier League. United&rsquo;s campaign is tainted with faltering performances, criticism by football experts and questions over tactics by the team management that has left the supporters of the club disappointed week in, week out.
So, it comes as no surprise that the Red Devils will look to strengthen their squad in the coming summer transfer window. Currently, Manchester United are at 14th position in the table with 38 points. They have won only 10 games out of 33 games so far, lost 15 and drawn 8 and their goal difference is -8.
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manchester-united">Manchester United</a> attack has been struggling to score goals effectively, leading to poor results. While the team has taken a significant number of shots, their shot conversion rate is low, meaning they often fail to capitalise on their chances.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/armand-duplantis-named-as-laureus-world-sportsman-of-the-year-8987533">Armand Duplantis named as Laureus World Sportsman of the Year</a>
The Red Devils lack an experienced attacker, someone who can take charge of the situation and act as a leader. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rasmus-hojlund" rel="dofollow">Rasmus Hojlund</a>, Joshua Zirkzee, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/alejandro-garnacho" rel="dofollow">Alejandro Garnacho</a> have been struggling to find the back of the net throughout the season.
To bolster their attack this summer, the Red Devils have identified Matheus Cunha as one of their top targets.
<h2>From Molineux to Old Trafford?</h2>
As per latest reports, Manchester United are inching closer to an agreement with Wolves forward Matheus Cunha over a potential move to Old Trafford this summer.
However, United will need to activate the Brazilian's &pound;62.5million release clause but are hopeful of having terms in place by next month.&nbsp;The 25-year-old expects to leave Molineux ahead of next season. Earlier, he signed a new contract with Wolves in February on the understanding that he would be allowed to move in the summer.
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Interestingly, United's last home was against Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, where the visitors beat them 1-0. Post match, United's Head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ruben-amorim">Ruben Amorim</a> was seen deep in conversation with Cunha.
Cunha is potentially seen as an ideal addition to play in one of the two attacking midfield positions in Amorim's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Notably, Cunha plays in a similar system under Wolves' current boss Vitor Pereira.
Since coming to England from Atl&eacute;tico Madrid initially on loan in January 2023, Cunha has scored 32 league goals -- including 16 this season.&nbsp;Besides this, United are also in the market for a new centre forward in the summer with Liam Delap and Victor Osimhen two of the names in the radar.
But it will not as easy for United as they will face tough competition from a number of Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle, all known to be looking to sign a forward this summer.

Football, Sports: United lack an experienced attacker, someone who can take charge of the situation and act as a leader. United's attack has been struggling this season

Manchester United's 2024-25 season is clouded with inconsistency, frustration and they are on course for their worst season ever, when it comes to Premier League. United’s campaign is tainted with faltering performances, criticism by football experts and questions over tactics by the team management that has left the supporters of the club disappointed week in, week out. So, it comes as no surprise that the Red Devils will look to strengthen their squad in the coming summer transfer window. Currently, Manchester United are at 14th position in the table with 38 points. They have won only 10 games out of 33 games so far, lost 15 and drawn 8 and their goal difference is -8. The Manchester United attack has been struggling to score goals effectively, leading to poor results. While the team has taken a significant number of shots, their shot conversion rate is low, meaning they often fail to capitalise on their chances. Also Read: Armand Duplantis named as Laureus World Sportsman of the Year The Red Devils lack an experienced attacker, someone who can take charge of the situation and act as a leader. Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho have been struggling to find the back of the net throughout the season. To bolster their attack this summer, the Red Devils have identified Matheus Cunha as one of their top targets. From Molineux to Old Trafford? As per latest reports, Manchester United are inching closer to an agreement with Wolves forward Matheus Cunha over a potential move to Old Trafford this summer. However, United will need to activate the Brazilian's £62.5million release clause but are hopeful of having terms in place by next month. The 25-year-old expects to leave Molineux ahead of next season. Earlier, he signed a new contract with Wolves in February on the understanding that he would be allowed to move in the summer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fabrizio Romano (@fabriziorom) Interestingly, United's last home was against Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, where the visitors beat them 1-0. Post match, United's Head coach Ruben Amorim was seen deep in conversation with Cunha. Cunha is potentially seen as an ideal addition to play in one of the two attacking midfield positions in Amorim's preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Notably, Cunha plays in a similar system under Wolves' current boss Vitor Pereira. Since coming to England from Atlético Madrid initially on loan in January 2023, Cunha has scored 32 league goals -- including 16 this season. Besides this, United are also in the market for a new centre forward in the summer with Liam Delap and Victor Osimhen two of the names in the radar. But it will not as easy for United as they will face tough competition from a number of Premier League clubs including Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle, all known to be looking to sign a forward this summer.

Is Matheus Cunha heading to Manchester United this summer?

There is no doubt that Manchester United&rsquo;s 2024-25 season is clouded with inconsistency, frustration and they are on course for their worst season ever, especially when it comes to Premier League. United&rsquo;s campaign is tainted with faltering performances, criticism by football experts and questions over tactics by the team management that has left the supporters of the club disappointed week in, week out.
It&rsquo;s been a season of ups and down. Rather more of downs as compared to ups.
A season where we&rsquo;ve been knocked out of every major cup, where our Premier League campaign feels like a never-ending rollercoaster of missed opportunities, poor decisions, and far too many moments that make you question everything you thought you knew about this team.
We&rsquo;ve watched the pundits make their predictions, and the memes flood our timelines. &ldquo;United are finished.&rdquo; &ldquo;The glory days are behind them.&rdquo; &ldquo;When&rsquo;s the next managerial change?&rdquo; They&rsquo;ve all piled on. Every single week, it feels like another blow. Every weekend, it&rsquo;s a reminder that we&rsquo;re not where we want to be.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-world-cup-2026-qualifiers-schedule-teams-argentina-star-lionel-messi-big-revelation-on-playing-in-football-world-cup-says-i-would-lie-if-8976877">Argentina star Lionel Messi's big revelation on playing in FIFA World Cup 2026, says 'I would lie if...'</a>
But then Europe comes. And with it, that strange, beautiful madness that only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manchester-united">Manchester United</a> can evoke among the fans. There&rsquo;s something about&nbsp;
But then Europe comes. And with it, that strange, beautiful madness that only Manchester United can evoke among the fans. There&rsquo;s something about European nights at Old Trafford. From United beating AS Roma 7-1 in 2006-07 season to Paul Scholes&rsquo; stunning goal against FC Barcelona in 2007-08 season, Old Trafford has seen it all.
In a competition where margins are so low and the slightest slip can derail an entire campaign, Manchester United have done what no other team in Europe has: Remained unbeaten. Not Real Madrid. Not Bayern. Not City. Only Manchester United. Let that sink in for a minute!
And on Thursday night (April 17), Manchester United also called as &lsquo;The Red Devils&rsquo;, reminded the world why one should never write them off.&nbsp;
<h2>A game called Football</h2>
United went into that game with more doubts than hopes. Red Devils' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/premier-league">Premier League</a> form has been horrible (to say the least), so who could&rsquo;ve predicted this? This game had everything. Thrills. Tension. Last-minute drama.
Yes, United did get the two-goal lead before the half-time whistle, thanks to Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot, but the fans knew that given our current form in the season, we could not celebrate until we heard that final whistle.
And the inevitable happened. Lyon came all guns blazing and hit back and in no time, the scores were levelled and they took lead on aggregate. United fans were left in disbelief thinking, this is it for the season.
The clock was ticking fast and a sense of urgency surrounded the Old Trafford. Going into extra time, Lyon hit two more to take the game completely out of Manchester United hands. 110 minutes gone. Seconds felt like an eternity. United still needing three goals to overcome the deficit if they wanted to make it to the semis of the Europa League.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelonas-hansi-flick-seeks-answers-from-spanish-football-over-joke-la-liga-schedule-8976840">Barcelona&rsquo;s Hansi Flick seeks answers from Spanish Football over &lsquo;joke&rsquo; La Liga schedule</a>
It was pure chaos. One of those games where one couldn&rsquo;t even sit still. One minute you&rsquo;re on top of the world, and the next, you are biting your nails and wondering, is this it for Manchester United? And yet, fans weren&rsquo;t just watching. They were living it. Every pass, every tackle, every goal felt like it meant more because, in the back of minds, every supporter knew: They needed this. United needed something to show for this season. A reminder of why they supported this club. Why they stood by this club all these years, no matter what.
And then, those last ten minutes of the game, it was not the United fans have been seeing all season, but that prime United between 2004-2009. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bruno-fernandes">Bruno Fernandes</a>, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire with others suddenly reminded everyone of the iconic 1999 team.
The players were playing for the badge again, their passion reignited. Whether it was the crowd support, their inner belief or the fact that they just knew that they play for a club which never gives up, whatever it may be, it was beautiful to watch players playing for the club again.
It wasn&rsquo;t just the fact that United won. It was the manner in which they won. The belief they showed when everything seemed stacked against them. The refusal to let this season be defined by our failures. United have been written off so many times this year, but when it matters, when the world is watching, United finds a way to rewrite the script.
Because let&rsquo;s be real&mdash;this is what United does. They don&rsquo;t play by the rules. They don&rsquo;t follow the script. They are not here for easy wins or predictable outcomes. They are here to make it dramatic. To make it memorable.
So yes, the Premier League has been painful. Yes, they have fallen short in the cups. But when the European lights come on, One can never count Manchester United out. Not when the game is on the line. Not when the impossible seems just out of reach. United are the masters of late goals. United have written that story time and time again. And they will keep writing it.
Because this is Manchester United. And when one thinks that they are done, that&rsquo;s when they are at their best. Never write them off.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Football, Sports: Harry Maguire completes epic comeback as Manchester United beat Lyon 5-4 at Old Trafford to win 7-6 on aggregate in quarter-finals of the Europa League

There is no doubt that Manchester United’s 2024-25 season is clouded with inconsistency, frustration and they are on course for their worst season ever, especially when it comes to Premier League. United’s campaign is tainted with faltering performances, criticism by football experts and questions over tactics by the team management that has left the supporters of the club disappointed week in, week out. It’s been a season of ups and down. Rather more of downs as compared to ups. A season where we’ve been knocked out of every major cup, where our Premier League campaign feels like a never-ending rollercoaster of missed opportunities, poor decisions, and far too many moments that make you question everything you thought you knew about this team. We’ve watched the pundits make their predictions, and the memes flood our timelines. “United are finished.” “The glory days are behind them.” “When’s the next managerial change?” They’ve all piled on. Every single week, it feels like another blow. Every weekend, it’s a reminder that we’re not where we want to be. Also Read: Argentina star Lionel Messi's big revelation on playing in FIFA World Cup 2026, says 'I would lie if...' But then Europe comes. And with it, that strange, beautiful madness that only Manchester United can evoke among the fans. There’s something about But then Europe comes. And with it, that strange, beautiful madness that only Manchester United can evoke among the fans. There’s something about European nights at Old Trafford. From United beating AS Roma 7-1 in 2006-07 season to Paul Scholes’ stunning goal against FC Barcelona in 2007-08 season, Old Trafford has seen it all. In a competition where margins are so low and the slightest slip can derail an entire campaign, Manchester United have done what no other team in Europe has: Remained unbeaten. Not Real Madrid. Not Bayern. Not City. Only Manchester United. Let that sink in for a minute! And on Thursday night (April 17), Manchester United also called as ‘The Red Devils’, reminded the world why one should never write them off. A game called Football United went into that game with more doubts than hopes. Red Devils' Premier League form has been horrible (to say the least), so who could’ve predicted this? This game had everything. Thrills. Tension. Last-minute drama. Yes, United did get the two-goal lead before the half-time whistle, thanks to Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot, but the fans knew that given our current form in the season, we could not celebrate until we heard that final whistle. And the inevitable happened. Lyon came all guns blazing and hit back and in no time, the scores were levelled and they took lead on aggregate. United fans were left in disbelief thinking, this is it for the season. The clock was ticking fast and a sense of urgency surrounded the Old Trafford. Going into extra time, Lyon hit two more to take the game completely out of Manchester United hands. 110 minutes gone. Seconds felt like an eternity. United still needing three goals to overcome the deficit if they wanted to make it to the semis of the Europa League. Also Read: Barcelona’s Hansi Flick seeks answers from Spanish Football over ‘joke’ La Liga schedule It was pure chaos. One of those games where one couldn’t even sit still. One minute you’re on top of the world, and the next, you are biting your nails and wondering, is this it for Manchester United? And yet, fans weren’t just watching. They were living it. Every pass, every tackle, every goal felt like it meant more because, in the back of minds, every supporter knew: They needed this. United needed something to show for this season. A reminder of why they supported this club. Why they stood by this club all these years, no matter what. And then, those last ten minutes of the game, it was not the United fans have been seeing all season, but that prime United between 2004-2009. Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire with others suddenly reminded everyone of the iconic 1999 team. The players were playing for the badge again, their passion reignited. Whether it was the crowd support, their inner belief or the fact that they just knew that they play for a club which never gives up, whatever it may be, it was beautiful to watch players playing for the club again. It wasn’t just the fact that United won. It was the manner in which they won. The belief they showed when everything seemed stacked against them. The refusal to let this season be defined by our failures. United have been written off so many times this year, but when it matters, when the world is watching, United finds a way to rewrite the script. Because let’s be real—this is what United does. They don’t play by the rules. They don’t follow the script. They are not here for easy wins or predictable outcomes. They are here to make it dramatic. To make it memorable. So yes, the Premier League has been painful. Yes, they have fallen short in the cups. But when the European lights come on, One can never count Manchester United out. Not when the game is on the line. Not when the impossible seems just out of reach. United are the masters of late goals. United have written that story time and time again. And they will keep writing it. Because this is Manchester United. And when one thinks that they are done, that’s when they are at their best. Never write them off. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Manchester United: The Theatre of Dreams, where the impossible happens

Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid in search of Champions League glory, hoping to be on the right side of exactly the kind of magical night they need against Arsenal on Wednesday if they are to progress to the semi-finals.
The Gunners lead 3-0 after dismantling the holders in London last week in the quarter-final first leg, leaving Madrid craving the sort of dramatic comeback the 15-time winners are renowned for.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-psl-2025-for-a-second-time-in-a-year-pakistani-bowler-usman-tariq-reported-for-suspect-bowling-action-8961705" aria-label="PSL 2025: For a second time in a year, Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action">PSL 2025: For a second time in a year, Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action</a>
Returning from a three-goal defeat would be step further than anything Los Blancos have managed so far, but that is precisely why they tried to lure Mbappe to the club for years.
The French superstar's explosive edge gives Madrid hope of achieving what appears to be borderline impossible.
"Of course we can," said Mbappe on his way out of the Emirates last Tuesday, heading to the team bus after Arsenal's stunning victory.
Declan Rice struck two sublime free-kicks and Mikel Merino's third helped Mikel Arteta's side put one foot in the final four.
Arsenal will be fully aware the job is not yet complete, having seen Mbappe's devastating impact against Premier League champions Manchester City earlier this season.
Mbappe netted a hat-trick against Pep Guardiola's side in February at the Santiago Bernabeu in the play-off round, helping Madrid eliminate City 6-3 on aggregate.
The striker was sent off for a wild challenge against Alaves in La Liga on Sunday, putting his team-mates under pressure, but can make it up to them with a special performance at the Santiago Bernabeu against Arsenal.
Madrid scraped a 1-0 win and Mbappe only played 38 minutes before his dismissal, so he should be fresh for Wednesday.
Mbappe has 33 goals in 49 games across all competitions this season, matching Madrid's all-time top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo's tally in his first season at the club.
<h2>'Big night'</h2>
Mbappe failed to lift the Champions League trophy with Paris Saint-Germain during his seven seasons at the club and in 2022, was on the sharp end of a spectacular Real Madrid comeback.
PSG led 1-0 from the last 16 first leg, with Mbappe on target, and he netted his second goal of the tie to give the French side the lead at the Bernabeu.
It sparked Real Madrid into life and a remarkable 17-minute Karim Benzema hat-trick turned the tie around and powered Los Blancos into the quarter-finals, on the way to lifting the trophy.
Mbappe said his treble against Man City was exactly the kind of night he was craving.
"I've been dreaming of moments like this since I was a kid, to play for this club and to feel what it's like on a big night at the Bernabeu," said the Frenchman.
"A lot of people have told me about it, but now I've seen it with my own eyes, and I hope we'll have many more."
In 2022 Madrid made a stunning comeback to beat Man City despite trailing 5-3 on aggregate in the final minutes of the semi-final second leg, progressing 6-5 in the end.
Perhaps their most important comeback came in the 2014 final against rivals Atletico, trailing 1-0 until Sergio Ramos headed home in the 93rd minute to force extra-time, with Los Blancos winning 4-1 to claim 'La Decima', their 10th Champions League trophy.
They also overcame a 2-0 quarter-final first leg deficit against Wolfsburg in 2016, winning the second leg 3-0 with a Ronaldo hat-trick.
Mbappe would dearly love to emulate the Portuguese forward's feat against Arsenal.
"At the Santiago Bernabeu, comebacks are always on everyone's lips," said Ronaldo.
Madrid and comebacks have been synonomous since the 1980s when winger Juanito was involved in several, including the UEFA Cup semi-finals in 1985.
"90 minutes at the Bernabeu is a long time," he warned Inter Milan after the hosts won the first leg 2-0 in Italy, with Madrid going on to triumph 3-0 on their way to glory.
Mbappe came to Madrid to add to their rich history and Arsenal's visit presents the ideal opportunity.
"We have to believe, we have to have confidence," said coach Carlo Ancelotti last week. "Because sometimes, quite often at the Bernabeu, it happens."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Returning from a three-goal defeat would be step further than anything Los Blancos have managed so far, but that is precisely why they tried to lure Mbappe to the club for years. Sports Football

Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid in search of Champions League glory, hoping to be on the right side of exactly the kind of magical night they need against Arsenal on Wednesday if they are to progress to the semi-finals. The Gunners lead 3-0 after dismantling the holders in London last week in the quarter-final first leg, leaving Madrid craving the sort of dramatic comeback the 15-time winners are renowned for. Also Read - PSL 2025: For a second time in a year, Pakistani bowler Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action Returning from a three-goal defeat would be step further than anything Los Blancos have managed so far, but that is precisely why they tried to lure Mbappe to the club for years. The French superstar's explosive edge gives Madrid hope of achieving what appears to be borderline impossible. "Of course we can," said Mbappe on his way out of the Emirates last Tuesday, heading to the team bus after Arsenal's stunning victory. Declan Rice struck two sublime free-kicks and Mikel Merino's third helped Mikel Arteta's side put one foot in the final four. Arsenal will be fully aware the job is not yet complete, having seen Mbappe's devastating impact against Premier League champions Manchester City earlier this season. Mbappe netted a hat-trick against Pep Guardiola's side in February at the Santiago Bernabeu in the play-off round, helping Madrid eliminate City 6-3 on aggregate. The striker was sent off for a wild challenge against Alaves in La Liga on Sunday, putting his team-mates under pressure, but can make it up to them with a special performance at the Santiago Bernabeu against Arsenal. Madrid scraped a 1-0 win and Mbappe only played 38 minutes before his dismissal, so he should be fresh for Wednesday. Mbappe has 33 goals in 49 games across all competitions this season, matching Madrid's all-time top goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo's tally in his first season at the club. 'Big night' Mbappe failed to lift the Champions League trophy with Paris Saint-Germain during his seven seasons at the club and in 2022, was on the sharp end of a spectacular Real Madrid comeback. PSG led 1-0 from the last 16 first leg, with Mbappe on target, and he netted his second goal of the tie to give the French side the lead at the Bernabeu. It sparked Real Madrid into life and a remarkable 17-minute Karim Benzema hat-trick turned the tie around and powered Los Blancos into the quarter-finals, on the way to lifting the trophy. Mbappe said his treble against Man City was exactly the kind of night he was craving. "I've been dreaming of moments like this since I was a kid, to play for this club and to feel what it's like on a big night at the Bernabeu," said the Frenchman. "A lot of people have told me about it, but now I've seen it with my own eyes, and I hope we'll have many more." In 2022 Madrid made a stunning comeback to beat Man City despite trailing 5-3 on aggregate in the final minutes of the semi-final second leg, progressing 6-5 in the end. Perhaps their most important comeback came in the 2014 final against rivals Atletico, trailing 1-0 until Sergio Ramos headed home in the 93rd minute to force extra-time, with Los Blancos winning 4-1 to claim 'La Decima', their 10th Champions League trophy. They also overcame a 2-0 quarter-final first leg deficit against Wolfsburg in 2016, winning the second leg 3-0 with a Ronaldo hat-trick. Mbappe would dearly love to emulate the Portuguese forward's feat against Arsenal. "At the Santiago Bernabeu, comebacks are always on everyone's lips," said Ronaldo. Madrid and comebacks have been synonomous since the 1980s when winger Juanito was involved in several, including the UEFA Cup semi-finals in 1985. "90 minutes at the Bernabeu is a long time," he warned Inter Milan after the hosts won the first leg 2-0 in Italy, with Madrid going on to triumph 3-0 on their way to glory. Mbappe came to Madrid to add to their rich history and Arsenal's visit presents the ideal opportunity. "We have to believe, we have to have confidence," said coach Carlo Ancelotti last week. "Because sometimes, quite often at the Bernabeu, it happens." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League: Mbappe to lead charge for Real Madrid vs Arsenal in hunt for glory

Carlo Ancelotti and his faltering Real Madrid side are under the microscope ahead of their visit to Alaves on Sunday, fighting to break out of a slump and stay in the La Liga title race.
Los Blancos are four points behind leaders Barcelona, who visit Leganes on Saturday, and need to bounce back from their 3-0 thrashing by Arsenal on Tuesday in the Champions League.
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Madrid host Arsenal on Wednesday in the second leg of that tie, in which they insist they can come back, but by focusing on that they would be at risk of slipping up in Vitoria.
Alaves, 17th, are fighting for La Liga survival and despite Madrid's status as Spanish and European champions, will believe they can get at Ancelotti's fragile side.
They have let in 11 goals in the last four games and have suffered two consecutive defeats, by Arsenal and last weekend in La Liga against Valencia.
"I feel responsible for what happened," admitted Ancelotti after the crushing loss at the Emirates.
Madrid's defeat has led to reports in Spanish media that they will not keep coach Ancelotti beyond the end of the season, with Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso, a former Madrid star, linked.
After just two defeats across all competitions last season, this season Madrid have suffered 11.
"Ancelotti is playing... for the credibility of his project, and maybe his position ahead of next season," wrote Madrid daily Marca.&nbsp;
Ancelotti may insist his team work together more against Alaves, criticising his collection of stars for trying to fight their way back individually after Declan Rice's free-kick double for Arsenal.
"We were not capable of a joint reaction, united," reasoned the coach.
"We tried too many individual moves, and that cost us because we lost our order, and from there they controlled the ball and the result."
The coach said his team has struggled throughout the current campaign to defend as a unit.
"It's something we've had a problem with through the season, the difficulty of being a compact block in the good moments but also in the ones which are not good," he added.
Madrid are hopeful Dani Ceballos can return to the squad for the Alaves match, with the midfielder out since February with a leg injury.
The former Arsenal playmaker has found form this season and his absence further exacerbates Madrid's difficulty in coping without departed midfield maestro Toni Kroos, who left last summer.
Aurelien Tchouameni's return should also help protect the defence, after he missed the Arsenal first leg through suspension.
Madrid's goal is a victory to maintain their title defence ambitions, before they try to rescue their Champions League campaign against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Player to watch: Christantus Uche The Nigeria midfielder has been playing in an attacking role for Getafe this season and produced two assists last week to help Jose Bordalas' side thump Valladolid. A powerhouse presence, Uche has helped Getafe climb away from danger up to 11th and he will be looking to create havoc on Saturday when they host lowly Las Palmas.
Key stats
3 - games without a win for Real Madrid across all competitions
14 - draws for Osasuna this season from 30 league games
232 - Barcelona's Pedri has 232 passes into the final third, more than any other player
Fixtures
Friday (all times GMT)
Valencia v Sevilla (1900)
Saturday
Real Sociedad v Mallorca (1200), Getafe v Las Palmas (1415), Celta Vigo v Espanyol (1630), Leganes v Barcelona (1900)
Sunday
Osasuna v Girona (1200), Alaves v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Villarreal (1630), Athletic Bilbao v Rayo Vallecano (1900)
Monday
Atletico Madrid v Valladolid (1900)
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Alaves, 17th, are fighting for La Liga survival and despite Madrid's status as Spanish and European champions, will believe they can get at Ancelotti's fragile side. Football Sports

Carlo Ancelotti and his faltering Real Madrid side are under the microscope ahead of their visit to Alaves on Sunday, fighting to break out of a slump and stay in the La Liga title race. Los Blancos are four points behind leaders Barcelona, who visit Leganes on Saturday, and need to bounce back from their 3-0 thrashing by Arsenal on Tuesday in the Champions League. Also Read - Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz creates history with maiden Monte Carlos Masters QF berth Madrid host Arsenal on Wednesday in the second leg of that tie, in which they insist they can come back, but by focusing on that they would be at risk of slipping up in Vitoria. Alaves, 17th, are fighting for La Liga survival and despite Madrid's status as Spanish and European champions, will believe they can get at Ancelotti's fragile side. They have let in 11 goals in the last four games and have suffered two consecutive defeats, by Arsenal and last weekend in La Liga against Valencia. "I feel responsible for what happened," admitted Ancelotti after the crushing loss at the Emirates. Madrid's defeat has led to reports in Spanish media that they will not keep coach Ancelotti beyond the end of the season, with Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso, a former Madrid star, linked. After just two defeats across all competitions last season, this season Madrid have suffered 11. "Ancelotti is playing... for the credibility of his project, and maybe his position ahead of next season," wrote Madrid daily Marca. Ancelotti may insist his team work together more against Alaves, criticising his collection of stars for trying to fight their way back individually after Declan Rice's free-kick double for Arsenal. "We were not capable of a joint reaction, united," reasoned the coach. "We tried too many individual moves, and that cost us because we lost our order, and from there they controlled the ball and the result." The coach said his team has struggled throughout the current campaign to defend as a unit. "It's something we've had a problem with through the season, the difficulty of being a compact block in the good moments but also in the ones which are not good," he added. Madrid are hopeful Dani Ceballos can return to the squad for the Alaves match, with the midfielder out since February with a leg injury. The former Arsenal playmaker has found form this season and his absence further exacerbates Madrid's difficulty in coping without departed midfield maestro Toni Kroos, who left last summer. Aurelien Tchouameni's return should also help protect the defence, after he missed the Arsenal first leg through suspension. Madrid's goal is a victory to maintain their title defence ambitions, before they try to rescue their Champions League campaign against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu. Player to watch: Christantus Uche The Nigeria midfielder has been playing in an attacking role for Getafe this season and produced two assists last week to help Jose Bordalas' side thump Valladolid. A powerhouse presence, Uche has helped Getafe climb away from danger up to 11th and he will be looking to create havoc on Saturday when they host lowly Las Palmas. Key stats 3 - games without a win for Real Madrid across all competitions 14 - draws for Osasuna this season from 30 league games 232 - Barcelona's Pedri has 232 passes into the final third, more than any other player Fixtures Friday (all times GMT) Valencia v Sevilla (1900) Saturday Real Sociedad v Mallorca (1200), Getafe v Las Palmas (1415), Celta Vigo v Espanyol (1630), Leganes v Barcelona (1900) Sunday Osasuna v Girona (1200), Alaves v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Villarreal (1630), Athletic Bilbao v Rayo Vallecano (1900) Monday Atletico Madrid v Valladolid (1900) Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Misfiring Real Madrid under scrutiny ahead of Alaves tie to stay in La Liga title race

Robert Lewandowski is one of the modern greats and the Polish footballer proved his mettle once again during the Champions League fixture between Barcelona and Dortmund on Wednesday (Apr 9). Lewandowski netted the football twice in the quarter-final first-leg as Barcelona won 4-0 against Dortmund.
With his two goals, the Polish player took his Champions League goal tally to 11 this season. He is now the first footballer in Champions League history to score 10 or more goals for three different teams.
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Before his 11 goals for Barcelona in the ongoing 2024-25 Champions League season, he had scored 10 goals for Dortmund in 2012-13 season. Playing for Bayern Munich, Lewandowski did it twice - 15 goals in 2019-20 season and 13 goals in 2021-22 season.
In the current Champions League season, 36-year-old Lewandowski is only outscored by teammate Raphinha.&nbsp;
He's also leading the goal-scoring charts in La Liga where he playing his third season after shifting to Barcelona for 2022-23 season. Lewandowski has scored 25 goals so far for the Catalan giants - the most in the Spanish league this season and more than his tally of 23 goals in 33 games in 2022-23 season and 19 goals in 32 games in 2023-24 season.
In the match against Dortmund, Lewandowski scored both his goals in second half - in 48th and 66th minute. The other two goals were scored by Raphinha in 25th minute and teenager Lamine Yamal in 77th minute as Barca won the one-sided contest 4-0.
Hansi Flick's Barca are a step away from reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2019 and extended their unbeaten run to 23 matches.
Barca, who last lifted the trophy in 2015 are aiming to seal a final four clash against Inter Milan or Bayern Munich when they visit Germany next Tuesday (Apr 15).
(With inputs from agency)

Before his 11 goals for Barcelona in the ongoing Champions League season, Lewandowski had scored 10 goals for Dortmund in 2012-13 and for Bayern Munich with 15 goals in 2019-20 and 13 goals in 2021-22 season. Football Sports

Robert Lewandowski is one of the modern greats and the Polish footballer proved his mettle once again during the Champions League fixture between Barcelona and Dortmund on Wednesday (Apr 9). Lewandowski netted the football twice in the quarter-final first-leg as Barcelona won 4-0 against Dortmund. With his two goals, the Polish player took his Champions League goal tally to 11 this season. He is now the first footballer in Champions League history to score 10 or more goals for three different teams. Also Watch - CONCACAF Champions Cup: Lionel Messi conjures surreal magic as Inter Miami snatch come-from-behind victory over LAFC Before his 11 goals for Barcelona in the ongoing 2024-25 Champions League season, he had scored 10 goals for Dortmund in 2012-13 season. Playing for Bayern Munich, Lewandowski did it twice - 15 goals in 2019-20 season and 13 goals in 2021-22 season. In the current Champions League season, 36-year-old Lewandowski is only outscored by teammate Raphinha. He's also leading the goal-scoring charts in La Liga where he playing his third season after shifting to Barcelona for 2022-23 season. Lewandowski has scored 25 goals so far for the Catalan giants - the most in the Spanish league this season and more than his tally of 23 goals in 33 games in 2022-23 season and 19 goals in 32 games in 2023-24 season. In the match against Dortmund, Lewandowski scored both his goals in second half - in 48th and 66th minute. The other two goals were scored by Raphinha in 25th minute and teenager Lamine Yamal in 77th minute as Barca won the one-sided contest 4-0. Hansi Flick's Barca are a step away from reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2019 and extended their unbeaten run to 23 matches. Barca, who last lifted the trophy in 2015 are aiming to seal a final four clash against Inter Milan or Bayern Munich when they visit Germany next Tuesday (Apr 15). (With inputs from agency)

Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski becomes first player in Champions League history to...

Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami fought back from 2-0 down on aggregate to defeat Los Angeles FC 3-1 and clinch a place in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Wednesday.
The Argentine World Cup-winner yet again proved decisive in what was a frantic, chaotic and entertaining encounter, sealing a 3-2 aggregate victory from the penalty spot with six minutes of normal time remaining.
While there has never been any doubt that the eight-times Ballon d'Or winner still has the technical ability to win games at the age of 37, this was a night when Messi showed he retains the passion and aggression needed for a battle.
In the final minutes of stoppage time, Messi was chasing down opponents and putting in challenges as his team just about hung on for the win.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
MESSSSSI 🐐<a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InterMiamiCF</a> takes one back! <a href="https://t.co/fJAoPTCNYG">pic.twitter.com/fJAoPTCNYG</a>
&mdash; FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXSoccer/status/1910131275874345152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It was a display which left his coach and former Argentina and Barcelona team-mate Javier Mascherano describing the forward as the "soul" of the team.
"He's a guy who has already done everything in football, he's the greatest in history and he continues to set an example of how to compete," said Mascherano.
"Until the last day he plays on a pitch he's going to want to win and he's going to do the impossible to win. And it's not just about wanting to, you also have to be able to, and he has that ability," he said.
Trailing 1-0 from the first-leg in California, Miami quickly found themselves in big trouble when Aaron Long put LAFC ahead in the ninth minute.
After Miami keeper Oscar Ustari punched a corner out -- Mark Delgado knocked the ball into the box and in the scramble Nathan Ordaz laid off to Long and the defender fired home.
With Long's goal carrying extra weight as the away goals rule remains in place in CONCACAF's club competition, Miami knew they had to score three times to stay alive in the tournament.
<h2>LAFC rue missed chances</h2>
Messi thought he had got one back when he took a free-kick quickly and put it in the corner while LAFC's former France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was still setting up the wall.
After some confusion, the goal was ruled out but Messi did not wait long to open his account, playing a smart one-two with his former Barca team-mate Luis Suarez and then sweeping a shot into the far corner in the 35th minute.
But Inter still needed two more goals in the second half against an LAFC team that continued to threaten on the break, particularly through winger Denis Bouanga.
Miami took a 2-1 lead on the night when Noah Allen chipped a ball into the box and neither Miami midfielder Federico Redondo or Los Angeles keeper Hugo Lloris made contact with the ball as it travelled beyond them into the goal.
Another was needed to secure passage to the semi-finals and the home crowd thought they had it when Suarez headed in a cross from Messi but the assistant referee ruled the Uruguayan forward was offside.
The lifeline came when Miami appealed for a handball by Marlon in a crowded tussle in the box and a VAR review found that the Brazilian defender had handled.
Messi tucked the 84th-minute spot kick into the corner to complete the comeback for Miami and earn them a place in the last four.
Steve Cherundolo, the former USA international now coach of LAFC said his team had paid the price for not putting the game to bed with a second goal after taking the lead.
"We created some high-quality chances throughout the match and then it gets hectic. You know there's antics on the sidelines with the referees and benches, that's the standard here and in this competition that's part of it," he said.
Mascherano accepted his team were far from perfect but was delighted with the fight they showed.
"We have a lot of things to improve but this is the way. This is the way to play football. We tried to give everything, 100%, with some mistakes but...until the end fighting, giving everything," he said.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

It was a display which left his coach and former Argentina and Barcelona team-mate Javier Mascherano describing the forward as the "soul" of the team. Football Sports

Lionel Messi scored twice as Inter Miami fought back from 2-0 down on aggregate to defeat Los Angeles FC 3-1 and clinch a place in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Wednesday. The Argentine World Cup-winner yet again proved decisive in what was a frantic, chaotic and entertaining encounter, sealing a 3-2 aggregate victory from the penalty spot with six minutes of normal time remaining. While there has never been any doubt that the eight-times Ballon d'Or winner still has the technical ability to win games at the age of 37, this was a night when Messi showed he retains the passion and aggression needed for a battle. In the final minutes of stoppage time, Messi was chasing down opponents and putting in challenges as his team just about hung on for the win. MESSSSSI 🐐@InterMiamiCF takes one back! pic.twitter.com/fJAoPTCNYG — FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) April 10, 2025 It was a display which left his coach and former Argentina and Barcelona team-mate Javier Mascherano describing the forward as the "soul" of the team. "He's a guy who has already done everything in football, he's the greatest in history and he continues to set an example of how to compete," said Mascherano. "Until the last day he plays on a pitch he's going to want to win and he's going to do the impossible to win. And it's not just about wanting to, you also have to be able to, and he has that ability," he said. Trailing 1-0 from the first-leg in California, Miami quickly found themselves in big trouble when Aaron Long put LAFC ahead in the ninth minute. After Miami keeper Oscar Ustari punched a corner out -- Mark Delgado knocked the ball into the box and in the scramble Nathan Ordaz laid off to Long and the defender fired home. With Long's goal carrying extra weight as the away goals rule remains in place in CONCACAF's club competition, Miami knew they had to score three times to stay alive in the tournament. LAFC rue missed chances Messi thought he had got one back when he took a free-kick quickly and put it in the corner while LAFC's former France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was still setting up the wall. After some confusion, the goal was ruled out but Messi did not wait long to open his account, playing a smart one-two with his former Barca team-mate Luis Suarez and then sweeping a shot into the far corner in the 35th minute. But Inter still needed two more goals in the second half against an LAFC team that continued to threaten on the break, particularly through winger Denis Bouanga. Miami took a 2-1 lead on the night when Noah Allen chipped a ball into the box and neither Miami midfielder Federico Redondo or Los Angeles keeper Hugo Lloris made contact with the ball as it travelled beyond them into the goal. Another was needed to secure passage to the semi-finals and the home crowd thought they had it when Suarez headed in a cross from Messi but the assistant referee ruled the Uruguayan forward was offside. The lifeline came when Miami appealed for a handball by Marlon in a crowded tussle in the box and a VAR review found that the Brazilian defender had handled. Messi tucked the 84th-minute spot kick into the corner to complete the comeback for Miami and earn them a place in the last four. Steve Cherundolo, the former USA international now coach of LAFC said his team had paid the price for not putting the game to bed with a second goal after taking the lead. "We created some high-quality chances throughout the match and then it gets hectic. You know there's antics on the sidelines with the referees and benches, that's the standard here and in this competition that's part of it," he said. Mascherano accepted his team were far from perfect but was delighted with the fight they showed. "We have a lot of things to improve but this is the way. This is the way to play football. We tried to give everything, 100%, with some mistakes but...until the end fighting, giving everything," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

CONCACAF Champions Cup: Lionel Messi conjures surreal magic as Inter Miami snatch come-from-behind victory over LAFC - WATCH

Mikel Arteta admitted Arsenal defied the odds with their stunning 3-0 win against Real Madrid as Declan Rice's free-kick magic left the Champions League holders in disarray.
Rice inspired one of the greatest results in Arsenal's storied history with two blistering free-kicks in the second half of the quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
Mikel Merino scored the third goal for Arteta's side as they moved within touching distance of a first Champions League semi-final appearance since 2009.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/neeraj-chopra-to-kick-off-2025-season-at-doha-diamond-league-on-may-16-8940629" aria-label="Neeraj Chopra to kick off 2025 season at Doha Diamond League on May 16">Neeraj Chopra to kick off 2025 season at Doha Diamond League on May 16</a>
It was an incredible moment for England midfielder Rice, who had never scored a free-kick in his career -- a period spanning 338 previous matches -- before the first of his thunderbolts flashed past Real keeper Thibaut Courtois.
Arsenal had also failed to find the net from a direct set-piece in almost four years, with their last coming via Martin Odegaard against Burnley in September 2021.
Gunners captain Odegaard put his hands on his head in disbelief when Rice completed his set-piece double, while Arteta was equally surprised.
"Declan's been very determined because we have said in the last few months that we have not scored a direct free-kick in three-and-half years," the Arsenal manager said.
"So, to score two goals in 12 minutes of that magnitude and of that quality from the same player, a player that has never scored a free-kick before in his career, what are the odds?
"If there's a player who can do it, how clean he strikes it it's Declan. But you have to execute it at the highest level. And against one of the best keepers in the world as well. It's amazing."
It was a cathartic result for Arsenal, who have endured a rocky season marred by their failure to keep pace with Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
The north Londoners are 11 points adrift of Liverpool, leaving the Champions League as their last chance this season to win a first trophy since the 2020 FA Cup.
Few would have expected them to get past 15-time European champions Real before the first leg.
But now Arsenal will travel to the Bernabeu for the return tie next week as firm favourites to progress to a last four clash against Paris Saint-Germain or Aston Villa.
<h2>'Magic moments'</h2>
"Beautiful. So proud of the team. I've never seen the stadium like this," Arteta said.
"For big European nights you need the big stadiums that create atmosphere and you need individual magic moments and there you go. That's the beauty of whoever invented this sport."
Arsenal famously knocked out Real in the last 16 on route to their only Champions League final appearance in 2006.
Repeating that run to the final and winning the tournament for the first time would end any doubts about Arteta, who had been questioned at times during his team's inconsistent campaign.
But the Spaniard, whose team blew significant leads in the title race over the previous two seasons, has no intention of taking victory for granted against Carlo Ancelotti's star-studded side.
"When you have not played against this team for the past 20 years, and not had a proper run in this competition, you have to be prepared to write your own history, and it is on nights like this where you can do that. We did that but we have a lot more to give," he said.
"It's another step in the right direction as a team. But we have to make another one and replicate what we've done tonight. Now we have to go to the Bernabeu and do it. That will be another step.
"I will enjoy the win because we deserve it. But we have to be even better in Madrid. We are just in the middle of the tie. There is so much to do yet."
For Real to produce an incredible escape act in the second leg, they will have to set a new mark in their glittering European history.
The Spanish giants have never overturned a three-goal first leg Champion League deficit, but Ancelotti is convinced there is still a chance. &nbsp;
"There is always a first time. The only thing you can do together is to try. The comeback starts tonight," said Ancelotti.
"The possibilities are quite low but we have to try at 100 percent and do all we can. It is an opportunity to show our game."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rice inspired one of the greatest results in Arsenal's storied history with two blistering free-kicks in the second half of the quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. Football Sports

Mikel Arteta admitted Arsenal defied the odds with their stunning 3-0 win against Real Madrid as Declan Rice's free-kick magic left the Champions League holders in disarray. Rice inspired one of the greatest results in Arsenal's storied history with two blistering free-kicks in the second half of the quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. Mikel Merino scored the third goal for Arteta's side as they moved within touching distance of a first Champions League semi-final appearance since 2009. Also Read: Neeraj Chopra to kick off 2025 season at Doha Diamond League on May 16 It was an incredible moment for England midfielder Rice, who had never scored a free-kick in his career -- a period spanning 338 previous matches -- before the first of his thunderbolts flashed past Real keeper Thibaut Courtois. Arsenal had also failed to find the net from a direct set-piece in almost four years, with their last coming via Martin Odegaard against Burnley in September 2021. Gunners captain Odegaard put his hands on his head in disbelief when Rice completed his set-piece double, while Arteta was equally surprised. "Declan's been very determined because we have said in the last few months that we have not scored a direct free-kick in three-and-half years," the Arsenal manager said. "So, to score two goals in 12 minutes of that magnitude and of that quality from the same player, a player that has never scored a free-kick before in his career, what are the odds? "If there's a player who can do it, how clean he strikes it it's Declan. But you have to execute it at the highest level. And against one of the best keepers in the world as well. It's amazing." It was a cathartic result for Arsenal, who have endured a rocky season marred by their failure to keep pace with Liverpool in the Premier League title race. The north Londoners are 11 points adrift of Liverpool, leaving the Champions League as their last chance this season to win a first trophy since the 2020 FA Cup. Few would have expected them to get past 15-time European champions Real before the first leg. But now Arsenal will travel to the Bernabeu for the return tie next week as firm favourites to progress to a last four clash against Paris Saint-Germain or Aston Villa. 'Magic moments' "Beautiful. So proud of the team. I've never seen the stadium like this," Arteta said. "For big European nights you need the big stadiums that create atmosphere and you need individual magic moments and there you go. That's the beauty of whoever invented this sport." Arsenal famously knocked out Real in the last 16 on route to their only Champions League final appearance in 2006. Repeating that run to the final and winning the tournament for the first time would end any doubts about Arteta, who had been questioned at times during his team's inconsistent campaign. But the Spaniard, whose team blew significant leads in the title race over the previous two seasons, has no intention of taking victory for granted against Carlo Ancelotti's star-studded side. "When you have not played against this team for the past 20 years, and not had a proper run in this competition, you have to be prepared to write your own history, and it is on nights like this where you can do that. We did that but we have a lot more to give," he said. "It's another step in the right direction as a team. But we have to make another one and replicate what we've done tonight. Now we have to go to the Bernabeu and do it. That will be another step. "I will enjoy the win because we deserve it. But we have to be even better in Madrid. We are just in the middle of the tie. There is so much to do yet." For Real to produce an incredible escape act in the second leg, they will have to set a new mark in their glittering European history. The Spanish giants have never overturned a three-goal first leg Champion League deficit, but Ancelotti is convinced there is still a chance. "There is always a first time. The only thing you can do together is to try. The comeback starts tonight," said Ancelotti. "The possibilities are quite low but we have to try at 100 percent and do all we can. It is an opportunity to show our game." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Champions League QF: Declan Rice conjures free-kick magic as Arsenal stun title-holders Real Madrid

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