Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football.

A 2-0 win over relegated Sampdoria was little more than a hors-d'oeuvre before the real reason fans jammed into the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona -- to see their team lift the trophy for the first time in 33 long years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-big-setback-for-england-as-jack-leach-ruled-out-due-to-stress-fracture-in-lower-back-600477">Ashes 2023: Big setback for England as Jack Leach ruled out due to stress fracture in lower back</a>

Victor Osimhen opened the scoring from the penalty spot midway through the second half, the 26th league strike of a stunning season which made him Serie A's all-time top African scorer.

Giovanni Simeone then made sure the hosts would finish the season on 90 points in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike before celebrating by holding up a Napoli shirt worn by icon and compatriot Maradona.

"I don't know, the president has to decide that,"&nbsp;Osimhen told DAZN when asked whether he might leave in a big-money summer move.

"I love the people of Napoli, they have shown me so much love. For me, I don't mind, the president decides and I will just go with the flow."

Spalletti will be on gardening leave for a year while still under contract with Napoli, and he will return to his Tuscan vineyard the oldest ever coach to win the Scudetto at 64.

<h2>'True to myself'</h2>

Napoli's title triumph was the crowning glory of Spalletti's long and eventful coaching career which has brought plenty of plaudits but few trophies.

"I need to be true to myself, leaving was a decision I made, that I came to. Even when I'm at home it'll be like I was in the stands watching and cheering for them." said Spalletti.

Fans will be hoping that whoever takes Spalletti's place will&nbsp;be able to utilise the hugely talented squad assembled by outgoing sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, as some like Osimhen are targets for richer clubs north of the Alps.

"I would tell them to trust these boys because they have a human and playing quality that means you can allow them to keep the ball rolling," said Spalletti.

Fabio Quagliarella openly blubbed as he was honoured by his fellow Napoli supporters in his final match in Italy's top flight.

The 40-year-old, who has scored 182 Serie A goals, was given a plaque by supporters who also unfurled a banner in the stands which said "you will never be forgotten by your people", and was given a rousing applause when he was substituted late on.

Napoli fans considered the Samp captain an enemy when he left for hated rivals Juventus after just one season in 2010, unaware until years later that a bizarre stalking plot had forced his departure.

<h2>Zlatan quits</h2>

Zlatan Ibrahimovic surprised fans by revealing that he was quitting football after AC Milan's 3-1 win over Verona which sent their opponents into a relegation play-off with Spezia who lost 2-1 at Roma.

The 41-year-old, a key figure in Milan's resurgence to the top of Italian football since his return in late 2019, was in the stands injured as he has been for most of the season before announcing his retirement.

"It's the moment to say goodbye to football, not just to you," said Ibrahimovic on the San Siro pitch.

"There are too many emotions for me right now. Forza Milan and goodbye."

Ibrahimovic was hugged by Rafael Leao who after signing a new deal until 2028 on Friday scored twice late on to secure the win for fourth-placed Milan.

However Paulo Dybala's stoppage-time penalty ensured Europa League football for Roma and sent Spezia into a one-off match next Sunday set to decide their and Verona's fate.

Roma's win means Juventus have to settle for the Europa Conference League despite Federico Chiesa giving them a 1-0 win at Udinese, assuming they are not banned from Europe by UEFA for financial irregularities.

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Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football.

Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football. A 2-0 win over relegated Sampdoria was little more than a hors-d'oeuvre before the real reason fans jammed into the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona -- to see their team lift the trophy for the first time in 33 long years. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Big setback for England as Jack Leach ruled out due to stress fracture in lower back Victor Osimhen opened the scoring from the penalty spot midway through the second half, the 26th league strike of a stunning season which made him Serie A's all-time top African scorer. Giovanni Simeone then made sure the hosts would finish the season on 90 points in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike before celebrating by holding up a Napoli shirt worn by icon and compatriot Maradona. "I don't know, the president has to decide that," Osimhen told DAZN when asked whether he might leave in a big-money summer move. "I love the people of Napoli, they have shown me so much love. For me, I don't mind, the president decides and I will just go with the flow." Spalletti will be on gardening leave for a year while still under contract with Napoli, and he will return to his Tuscan vineyard the oldest ever coach to win the Scudetto at 64. 'True to myself' Napoli's title triumph was the crowning glory of Spalletti's long and eventful coaching career which has brought plenty of plaudits but few trophies. "I need to be true to myself, leaving was a decision I made, that I came to. Even when I'm at home it'll be like I was in the stands watching and cheering for them." said Spalletti. Fans will be hoping that whoever takes Spalletti's place will be able to utilise the hugely talented squad assembled by outgoing sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, as some like Osimhen are targets for richer clubs north of the Alps. "I would tell them to trust these boys because they have a human and playing quality that means you can allow them to keep the ball rolling," said Spalletti. Fabio Quagliarella openly blubbed as he was honoured by his fellow Napoli supporters in his final match in Italy's top flight. The 40-year-old, who has scored 182 Serie A goals, was given a plaque by supporters who also unfurled a banner in the stands which said "you will never be forgotten by your people", and was given a rousing applause when he was substituted late on. Napoli fans considered the Samp captain an enemy when he left for hated rivals Juventus after just one season in 2010, unaware until years later that a bizarre stalking plot had forced his departure. Zlatan quits Zlatan Ibrahimovic surprised fans by revealing that he was quitting football after AC Milan's 3-1 win over Verona which sent their opponents into a relegation play-off with Spezia who lost 2-1 at Roma. The 41-year-old, a key figure in Milan's resurgence to the top of Italian football since his return in late 2019, was in the stands injured as he has been for most of the season before announcing his retirement. "It's the moment to say goodbye to football, not just to you," said Ibrahimovic on the San Siro pitch. "There are too many emotions for me right now. Forza Milan and goodbye." Ibrahimovic was hugged by Rafael Leao who after signing a new deal until 2028 on Friday scored twice late on to secure the win for fourth-placed Milan. However Paulo Dybala's stoppage-time penalty ensured Europa League football for Roma and sent Spezia into a one-off match next Sunday set to decide their and Verona's fate. Roma's win means Juventus have to settle for the Europa Conference League despite Federico Chiesa giving them a 1-0 win at Udinese, assuming they are not banned from Europe by UEFA for financial irregularities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Napoli celebrate title, Zlatan Ibrahimovic announces retirement

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club.

<h2>Juventus avoid point deduction</h2>

Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros.&nbsp;

Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions.

The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football.

Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A.

Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction.

If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League.

Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial.&nbsp;

<h2>Losses artificially reduced</h2>

The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced.&nbsp;

In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted.

Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities.

In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively.&nbsp;

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A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board.&nbsp;

It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22.

In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months.

Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March.&nbsp;

Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May.&nbsp;

On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal.

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club. Juventus avoid point deduction Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros. Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions. The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football. Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A. Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction. If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League. Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial. Losses artificially reduced The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced. In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted. Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities. In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board. It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22. In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months. Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March. Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May. On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Juventus fined, avoid points deduction in false accounting trial

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus.

Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin&nbsp;in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season.&nbsp;

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Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage.

They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season&nbsp;and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup.

"This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli.&nbsp;

"We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons."

Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday.

Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants.

<h2>Lecce safe</h2>

Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day.

Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check.

Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro&nbsp;Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining.

That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father.

"I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN.

Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli.

They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points.

<h2>Osimhen not enough</h2>

Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna.

Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes.

However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player.&nbsp;

Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical.

"He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio.

Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic&nbsp;had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark.

His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day.

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Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season. It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season. Also Read: Formula One: Max Verstappen extends lead with dominant victory in Monaco rain Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage. They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup. "This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli. "We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons." Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday. Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants. Lecce safe Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day. Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check. Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining. That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father. "I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN. Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli. They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points. Osimhen not enough Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna. Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes. However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player. Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical. "He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio. Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark. His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Giroud's goal against Juventus puts AC Milan in Champions League

Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as&nbsp;Lautaro&nbsp;Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday.

Inter will undoubtedly be the underdogs against either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on June 10, but the way they managed both legs of this all-Milan tie suggests they will be hard to beat.

The key moment of the night at the San Siro came when&nbsp;Martinez&nbsp;exchanged passes with substitute Romelu Lukaku and drilled a shot from inside the penalty area that Milan keeper Mike Maignan allowed in at his near post.

That goal effectively killed off the tie.

Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Milan had pushed hard in the first half, spearheaded by Rafael Leao who shot across the goal and past the post with one of his side's best chances.

Maignan then superbly dropped to his knees to collect Edin Dzeko's glancing header from Hakan Calhanoglu's pacy free-kick.

Lukaku's introduction in the second half proved the spark that Inter needed to extend their lead.

Absent for much of the season with injuries and with a damaged reputation following a disastrous World Cup with Belgium, Lukaku has slowly worked his way back to his best.

The forward on loan from Chelsea immediately caused problems in the Milan defence and created&nbsp;Martinez's goal to guarantee their place in their first Champions League final since the last time they won European club football's biggest prize under Jose Mourinho in 2010.

"Tutti a Istanbul", the joyous Inter fans sang.&nbsp;

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Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as Lautaro Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday.

Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as Lautaro Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday. Inter will undoubtedly be the underdogs against either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on June 10, but the way they managed both legs of this all-Milan tie suggests they will be hard to beat. The key moment of the night at the San Siro came when Martinez exchanged passes with substitute Romelu Lukaku and drilled a shot from inside the penalty area that Milan keeper Mike Maignan allowed in at his near post. That goal effectively killed off the tie. Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Milan had pushed hard in the first half, spearheaded by Rafael Leao who shot across the goal and past the post with one of his side's best chances. Maignan then superbly dropped to his knees to collect Edin Dzeko's glancing header from Hakan Calhanoglu's pacy free-kick. Lukaku's introduction in the second half proved the spark that Inter needed to extend their lead. Absent for much of the season with injuries and with a damaged reputation following a disastrous World Cup with Belgium, Lukaku has slowly worked his way back to his best. The forward on loan from Chelsea immediately caused problems in the Milan defence and created Martinez's goal to guarantee their place in their first Champions League final since the last time they won European club football's biggest prize under Jose Mourinho in 2010. "Tutti a Istanbul", the joyous Inter fans sang. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Inter win Milan derby to reach first Champions League final in 13 years

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-messi-jeered-in-return-as-psg-inch-closer-to-title-592164">Ligue 1: Messi jeered in return as PSG inch closer to title</a>

"The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports.

"We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season."

Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010.

Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points.

Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way.

Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside.

Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi.

Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining.

Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months.

<h2>Not good enough</h2>

Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday.

Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night.

"It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN.

"These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today."

Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February.

"Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer.

"In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work."

Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game.

Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area.

Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions.

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Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia. A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus. Also Read: Ligue 1: Messi jeered in return as PSG inch closer to title "The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports. "We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season." Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010. Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points. Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way. Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside. Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi. Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining. Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months. Not good enough Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday. Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night. "It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN. "These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today." Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February. "Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer. "In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work." Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game. Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area. Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Inter warm up for Champions League semis with win, AC Milan lose 0-2

Inter Milan have one foot in the Champions League final after an impressive 2-0 win over AC Milan in Wednesday's pulsating last-four derby. Inter have the upper hand ahead of Tuesday's second leg of the biggest Milan derby of a generation thanks to strikes in the first 11 minutes from Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

Inter could have won by a wider margin as Hakan Calhanoglu smashed a shot off the post and Dzeko wasted a great chance early in the second half, but they are still heavy favourites to reach the final of Europe's top club competition for the first time since they last won it 13 years ago.

"Sometimes I don't score goals and that's all anyone talks about, but I also give something else," Dzeko told Prime Video after his third goal since January. "Today I worked for the team and that was what was needed in such a big match."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-barcelona-legend-sergio-busquets-set-to-leave-club-after-ongoing-season-591000">La Liga: Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets set to leave club after ongoing season</a>

Reaching the final would be extra sweet for Inter as it would avenge semi- and quarter-final eliminations at the hands of Milan in 2003 and 2005. The winners of the tie will face holders Real Madrid or Manchester City in the June 10 showpiece in Istanbul. The first leg of that semi-final finished 1-1 in Spain on Tuesday.

Milan, who also struck the woodwork through Sandro Tonali, have their work cut out if they want to have a chance at being crowned European champions for the eighth time and will hope Rafael Leao is available for next week's decisive clash. The absence of star man Leao left Milan without their key attacking threat and allowed Inter to play more on the front foot knowing their opponents didn't have the Portugal winger's pace in their armoury.

"We conceded two quick goals, and against Inter that's difficult to come back from," Milan defender Fikayo Tomori told Prime Video. "We're disappointed, we could have done better, especially at the beginning, but we need to believe if we're going to reach the final."

- One team in it -

A colourful San Siro was nearly full an hour before kick-off, with both sets of fans exchanging chants, and insults before the huge displays traditional to the fixture were unfurled as the teams came out.

But once the match was underway there was really only one team on the pitch, with nominal away side Inter looking the more settled and dynamic off the back of five straight wins and the recent hot form of their attack.

It didn't take long for the away side to open the scoring and it was a fabulous Dzeko goal which did it in the eighth minute.

The Bosnia striker held off Davide Calabria and met Calhanoglu's inswinging corner with a perfect volley which left Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan with no chance.

With their tails up and their fans falling over each other with joy in the Curva Nord, Inter went for Milan and three minutes later Mkhitaryan doubled their lead.

Federico Dimarco was set scampering down the left flank and his low cut-back was first left by Lautaro Martinez and then collected by Armenian midfielder Mkhitaryan, who smashed in his fifth goal of the season.

Milan escaped being three goals down after just a quarter of an hour when Calhanoglu nearly silenced the boos of his former supporters with a long-range drive which crashed out off the post.

And Martinez then won a penalty which was rightly overturned by referee Jesus Gil Manzano following a look at the pitch-side monitor.

Dzeko should have all but sealed the tie when one-on-one with Maignan in the 53rd minute and not long after, while Milan's fans unleashed a volley of flares and explosives, Tonali held his head in despair after striking the bottom of the post.

However, that was the last major chance of the game for Milan as Inter comfortably held off their rivals for the final half an hour and then bathed in the applause of their supporters who are dreaming of a trip to Turkey.

Inter Milan have one foot in the Champions League final after an impressive 2-0 win over AC Milan in Wednesday's pulsating last-four derby. Inter have the upper hand ahead of Tuesday's second leg of the biggest Milan derby of a generation thanks to strikes in the first 11 minutes from Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

Inter Milan have one foot in the Champions League final after an impressive 2-0 win over AC Milan in Wednesday's pulsating last-four derby. Inter have the upper hand ahead of Tuesday's second leg of the biggest Milan derby of a generation thanks to strikes in the first 11 minutes from Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Inter could have won by a wider margin as Hakan Calhanoglu smashed a shot off the post and Dzeko wasted a great chance early in the second half, but they are still heavy favourites to reach the final of Europe's top club competition for the first time since they last won it 13 years ago. "Sometimes I don't score goals and that's all anyone talks about, but I also give something else," Dzeko told Prime Video after his third goal since January. "Today I worked for the team and that was what was needed in such a big match." ALSO READ: La Liga: Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets set to leave club after ongoing season Reaching the final would be extra sweet for Inter as it would avenge semi- and quarter-final eliminations at the hands of Milan in 2003 and 2005. The winners of the tie will face holders Real Madrid or Manchester City in the June 10 showpiece in Istanbul. The first leg of that semi-final finished 1-1 in Spain on Tuesday. Milan, who also struck the woodwork through Sandro Tonali, have their work cut out if they want to have a chance at being crowned European champions for the eighth time and will hope Rafael Leao is available for next week's decisive clash. The absence of star man Leao left Milan without their key attacking threat and allowed Inter to play more on the front foot knowing their opponents didn't have the Portugal winger's pace in their armoury. "We conceded two quick goals, and against Inter that's difficult to come back from," Milan defender Fikayo Tomori told Prime Video. "We're disappointed, we could have done better, especially at the beginning, but we need to believe if we're going to reach the final." - One team in it - A colourful San Siro was nearly full an hour before kick-off, with both sets of fans exchanging chants, and insults before the huge displays traditional to the fixture were unfurled as the teams came out. But once the match was underway there was really only one team on the pitch, with nominal away side Inter looking the more settled and dynamic off the back of five straight wins and the recent hot form of their attack. It didn't take long for the away side to open the scoring and it was a fabulous Dzeko goal which did it in the eighth minute. The Bosnia striker held off Davide Calabria and met Calhanoglu's inswinging corner with a perfect volley which left Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan with no chance. With their tails up and their fans falling over each other with joy in the Curva Nord, Inter went for Milan and three minutes later Mkhitaryan doubled their lead. Federico Dimarco was set scampering down the left flank and his low cut-back was first left by Lautaro Martinez and then collected by Armenian midfielder Mkhitaryan, who smashed in his fifth goal of the season. Milan escaped being three goals down after just a quarter of an hour when Calhanoglu nearly silenced the boos of his former supporters with a long-range drive which crashed out off the post. And Martinez then won a penalty which was rightly overturned by referee Jesus Gil Manzano following a look at the pitch-side monitor. Dzeko should have all but sealed the tie when one-on-one with Maignan in the 53rd minute and not long after, while Milan's fans unleashed a volley of flares and explosives, Tonali held his head in despair after striking the bottom of the post. However, that was the last major chance of the game for Milan as Inter comfortably held off their rivals for the final half an hour and then bathed in the applause of their supporters who are dreaming of a trip to Turkey.

Champions League semifinal: Veterans Dzeko, Mkhitaryan score as Inter Milan go past AC Milan 2-0 in 1st leg

Italian Football has undoubtedly had its best season in over a decade, with Inter and AC Milan both in the Champions League semi-finals. Napoli are poised to become Serie A champions and have been one of the best teams in Europe this season. Can the Italian clubs sustain this success and challenge the big boys of the Premier League and Liga?

Can Inter or AC Milan win the Champions League?

Inter Milan set up a blockbuster derby in the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday after a 3-3 draw with Benfica saw the Italians through 5-3 on aggregate. Simone Inzaghi's side will face local rivals AC Milan in the last four thanks to goals from Nicolo Barella, Lautaro Martinez and Joaquin Correa which ensured straight-forward qualification.

Both Milan giants are trying to become the first Serie A side to win Europe's top club competition since Inter last lifted the trophy in 2010.

"It was a big night for everyone at the club, and we deserved to go through over the course of the two legs," said Inzaghi. "The players were incredible over the two matches. Getting to the semi-finals is a dream and now that we're here we want to go try and go all the way."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-manchester-city-beat-bayern-munich-on-aggregate-to-face-real-madrid-in-semis-584218">Champions League: Manchester City beat Bayern Munich on aggregate, to face Real Madrid in semis</a>

Inter had come into Wednesday's clash in a miserable run of form in which their only win in their last eight games had come in last week's first leg in Portugal.

The win set up two mouth-watering clashes with Milan next month after the Italian champions saw off Napoli on Tuesday night.

It also snapped a three-match home losing streak in which Inter hadn't scored a single goal and continued their impressive season in cup competitions while their league campaign flounders.

Martinez and Correa ended worrying goalscoring droughts with their strikes, as well as making sure that Fredrik Aursnes, Antonio Silva and Petar Musa netting for the away side made no difference to the outcome of the tie.

"We're really happy, we're really proud to represent the badge and this great club," said Martinez. &nbsp;"We knew that this (going through) meant playing a derby in the semi-finals of the Champions League. I play this sport to win everything possible, I'm really happy to be in the semi-finals, this club deserves to be there."

Silva and Musa netted late on for Roger Schmidt's team when Inter had already long made sure that they would be tussling Milan for a place in the June 10 final in Istanbul.

- Flares thrown –

If there were any pre-match nerves among the sell-out San Siro crowd they were soon eased as Inter immediately played like the team in two cup semi-finals rather than the one which has lost 11 times in Serie A.

They could have been ahead as early as the sixth minute when Lautaro wasted a great counter-attack by playing a poor pass to Federico Dimarco who was haring into the box.

However, Martinez redeemed himself for the opener, snaffling up possession after Edin Dzeko battled with the Benfica defence and exchanging passes with Barella who unleashed a perfectly placed curler with his left.

However, a defensive lapse allowed Aursnes to pull Benfica on the night seven minutes before the break, the Norwegian midfielder left completely alone to power a header past Andre Onana.

Inzaghi said before the match that Inter would not simply defend but they sat back as Benfica pushed for an unlikely passage to the next round.

And with the home crowd enraged by Benfica fans throwing flares from the top-tier away end down onto home supporters, Martinez ensured Inter would go through in the 68th minute.

Dimarco was neatly found by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the full-back put in a fizzing cross which Martinez expertly guided home to net his first goal since early March.

And a perfect night for Inter fans was completed with 12 minutes remaining when Correa shrugged off Nicolas Otamendi and curled in his first goal since early October.

Silva nodded home Alejandro Grimaldo's cross with four minutes remaining but the home crowd was already singing ribald songs about Milan fans.

And Musa's low finish deep in stoppage time, which Inzaghi later said they conceded because someone had blown a referee's whistle in the crowd, was nothing more than a second consolation for the defeated Portuguese.

Inter Milan set up a blockbuster derby in the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday after a 3-3 draw with Benfica saw the Italians through 5-3 on aggregate. Simone Inzaghi's side will face local rivals AC Milan in the last four thanks to goals from Nicolo Barella, Lautaro Martinez and Joaquin Correa which ensured straight-forward qualification.

Inter Milan set up a blockbuster derby in the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday after a 3-3 draw with Benfica saw the Italians through 5-3 on aggregate. Simone Inzaghi's side will face local rivals AC Milan in the last four thanks to goals from Nicolo Barella, Lautaro Martinez and Joaquin Correa which ensured straight-forward qualification. Both Milan giants are trying to become the first Serie A side to win Europe's top club competition since Inter last lifted the trophy in 2010. "It was a big night for everyone at the club, and we deserved to go through over the course of the two legs," said Inzaghi. "The players were incredible over the two matches. Getting to the semi-finals is a dream and now that we're here we want to go try and go all the way." ALSO READ: Champions League: Manchester City beat Bayern Munich on aggregate, to face Real Madrid in semis Inter had come into Wednesday's clash in a miserable run of form in which their only win in their last eight games had come in last week's first leg in Portugal. The win set up two mouth-watering clashes with Milan next month after the Italian champions saw off Napoli on Tuesday night. It also snapped a three-match home losing streak in which Inter hadn't scored a single goal and continued their impressive season in cup competitions while their league campaign flounders. Martinez and Correa ended worrying goalscoring droughts with their strikes, as well as making sure that Fredrik Aursnes, Antonio Silva and Petar Musa netting for the away side made no difference to the outcome of the tie. "We're really happy, we're really proud to represent the badge and this great club," said Martinez. "We knew that this (going through) meant playing a derby in the semi-finals of the Champions League. I play this sport to win everything possible, I'm really happy to be in the semi-finals, this club deserves to be there." Silva and Musa netted late on for Roger Schmidt's team when Inter had already long made sure that they would be tussling Milan for a place in the June 10 final in Istanbul. - Flares thrown – If there were any pre-match nerves among the sell-out San Siro crowd they were soon eased as Inter immediately played like the team in two cup semi-finals rather than the one which has lost 11 times in Serie A. They could have been ahead as early as the sixth minute when Lautaro wasted a great counter-attack by playing a poor pass to Federico Dimarco who was haring into the box. However, Martinez redeemed himself for the opener, snaffling up possession after Edin Dzeko battled with the Benfica defence and exchanging passes with Barella who unleashed a perfectly placed curler with his left. However, a defensive lapse allowed Aursnes to pull Benfica on the night seven minutes before the break, the Norwegian midfielder left completely alone to power a header past Andre Onana. Inzaghi said before the match that Inter would not simply defend but they sat back as Benfica pushed for an unlikely passage to the next round. And with the home crowd enraged by Benfica fans throwing flares from the top-tier away end down onto home supporters, Martinez ensured Inter would go through in the 68th minute. Dimarco was neatly found by Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the full-back put in a fizzing cross which Martinez expertly guided home to net his first goal since early March. And a perfect night for Inter fans was completed with 12 minutes remaining when Correa shrugged off Nicolas Otamendi and curled in his first goal since early October. Silva nodded home Alejandro Grimaldo's cross with four minutes remaining but the home crowd was already singing ribald songs about Milan fans. And Musa's low finish deep in stoppage time, which Inzaghi later said they conceded because someone had blown a referee's whistle in the crowd, was nothing more than a second consolation for the defeated Portuguese.

Champions League: Inter Milan set up all-Italian-semis clash with AC Milan after beating Benfica in quarters

The 2022/23 edition of the Champions League has now reached the business end with just four teams remaining in the competition. English Champions Manchester City will take on holders Real Madrid in a replay of last year's semi-final. The second semi-final will see a Milan Derby after 18 years. Who will reign supreme in Istanbul on June 10?

Who will win the Champions League? | WION Sports Xtra

AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians.

Giroud tapped in what turned out to be the decisive goal two minutes before the break after a blistering run from Rafael Leao, who was once again key as Milan beat Napoli for the third time this month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-champions-manchester-city-to-expand-etihad-stadium-to-over-60000-capacity-583810">Champions Manchester City to expand Etihad stadium to over 60,000 capacity</a>

The France striker's 13th goal of the season saved his blushes after he missed a penalty midway through the first half.

Stefano Pioli's side now have the prospect of a local derby in the last four as Inter Milan hold a two-goal lead ahead of their second leg with Benfica on Wednesday night.

"I'm very proud of this team, with that spirit we can dream of anything," said Giroud to Mediaset.

"In the next round there will be another hard match whether it's against Inter or Benfica, but if we keep this spirit we can go anywhere."

After the match Mediaset showed Leao a video of Ruud Gullit setting up a goal with an almost identical run at Napoli in 1988.

"It's the same," said a shocked Leao.&nbsp;

"It's what I try to do, go at players, it's how I can make difference. If I can't score I look for my teammates. I saw Giroud there."

Milan have not contested a Champions League semi-final since they were crowned kings of Europe for the seventh and most recent time in 2007.

Victor Osimhen scored in stoppage time but it was not enough for Napoli who are creaking as they come towards the end of what has been a phenomenal season.

Luciano Spalletti's once freewheeling team are &nbsp;struggling for goals and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also had a penalty saved with 10 minutes remaining, a miss which condemned his team to defeat.

Napoli are on the verge of their first league title since 1990, but after being placed on the easier side of the draw Tuesday's exit was an underwhelming end to their European adventure.

<h2>Well-organised Milan</h2>

Their hardcore fans had agreed a truce in an ideological battle with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis which had made the atmosphere at home matches poisonous, and on Tuesday a packed Stadio Maradona was initially in fine voice.

Their team went straight at Milan, dominating possession and pushing the opposition back towards the vibrating stands.

However, the best they could muster was two long-distance efforts from Matteo Politano which crept wide. On Milan's first serious attack Mario Rui clattered into Leao and handed Giroud the chance to give the away side a huge advantage from the penalty spot.

However Giroud's weak effort was easily stopped by Alex Meret, whose save unleashed a roar from the stands, a colossal racket repeated when he prevented Giroud netting a more than presentable chance shortly afterwards.

Napoli had scored at least three goals in all of their previous Champions League home games this season but looked short on ideas against a well-organised Milan defence which kept a tight lid on Osimhen.

And as the hosts pushed to level the scores on aggregate, Milan pounced at the end of the first half.

Leao scooped up the ball after Tanguy Ndombele's sloppy control and charged from deep his own half, breezed past three Napoli players and rolled an unmissable chance across to Giroud, who fell to his knees in a mixture of joy and relief.

Napoli were again on the front foot&nbsp;after the break but struggled to create much, with Mathias Olivera's header wide from a 64th-minute corner the best chance until Fikayo Tomori handled Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross as he put in a challenge in the penalty area.

Kvaratskhelia fluffed his own spot-kick just like Giroud, meaning Osimhen's bullet header in the 93rd minute meant nothing for Napoli who will wonder what might have been after wasting so many chances in the first leg.

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AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians.

AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians. Giroud tapped in what turned out to be the decisive goal two minutes before the break after a blistering run from Rafael Leao, who was once again key as Milan beat Napoli for the third time this month. Also Read: Champions Manchester City to expand Etihad stadium to over 60,000 capacity The France striker's 13th goal of the season saved his blushes after he missed a penalty midway through the first half. Stefano Pioli's side now have the prospect of a local derby in the last four as Inter Milan hold a two-goal lead ahead of their second leg with Benfica on Wednesday night. "I'm very proud of this team, with that spirit we can dream of anything," said Giroud to Mediaset. "In the next round there will be another hard match whether it's against Inter or Benfica, but if we keep this spirit we can go anywhere." After the match Mediaset showed Leao a video of Ruud Gullit setting up a goal with an almost identical run at Napoli in 1988. "It's the same," said a shocked Leao. "It's what I try to do, go at players, it's how I can make difference. If I can't score I look for my teammates. I saw Giroud there." Milan have not contested a Champions League semi-final since they were crowned kings of Europe for the seventh and most recent time in 2007. Victor Osimhen scored in stoppage time but it was not enough for Napoli who are creaking as they come towards the end of what has been a phenomenal season. Luciano Spalletti's once freewheeling team are struggling for goals and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also had a penalty saved with 10 minutes remaining, a miss which condemned his team to defeat. Napoli are on the verge of their first league title since 1990, but after being placed on the easier side of the draw Tuesday's exit was an underwhelming end to their European adventure. Well-organised Milan Their hardcore fans had agreed a truce in an ideological battle with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis which had made the atmosphere at home matches poisonous, and on Tuesday a packed Stadio Maradona was initially in fine voice. Their team went straight at Milan, dominating possession and pushing the opposition back towards the vibrating stands. However, the best they could muster was two long-distance efforts from Matteo Politano which crept wide. On Milan's first serious attack Mario Rui clattered into Leao and handed Giroud the chance to give the away side a huge advantage from the penalty spot. However Giroud's weak effort was easily stopped by Alex Meret, whose save unleashed a roar from the stands, a colossal racket repeated when he prevented Giroud netting a more than presentable chance shortly afterwards. Napoli had scored at least three goals in all of their previous Champions League home games this season but looked short on ideas against a well-organised Milan defence which kept a tight lid on Osimhen. And as the hosts pushed to level the scores on aggregate, Milan pounced at the end of the first half. Leao scooped up the ball after Tanguy Ndombele's sloppy control and charged from deep his own half, breezed past three Napoli players and rolled an unmissable chance across to Giroud, who fell to his knees in a mixture of joy and relief. Napoli were again on the front foot after the break but struggled to create much, with Mathias Olivera's header wide from a 64th-minute corner the best chance until Fikayo Tomori handled Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross as he put in a challenge in the penalty area. Kvaratskhelia fluffed his own spot-kick just like Giroud, meaning Osimhen's bullet header in the 93rd minute meant nothing for Napoli who will wonder what might have been after wasting so many chances in the first leg. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: AC Milan enter semis after Giroud's equaliser against Napoli

Frank Lampard’s Chelsea will look to overturn a 0-2 deposit against Real Madrid from the first leg as they try to make the semifinal of the Champions League. The second leg between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening where the home fans will be hoping for a remarkable comeback. The evening will also see AC Milan eye a last four berth as they look to consolidate their 1-0 lead from the first leg against Napoli.

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The deciders! 🔥 
 
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Historically, whenever Chelsea and Real have met in the knockout stage, the winner of the tie has gone on to win the competition. Real won the London leg in the 2022 quarterfinal while they lost the semifinal leg in 2021. A win for them will see them book a last four berth for the third consecutive season. The match will also see the return of Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge, having served as the Chelsea manager from 2009 to 2011.

In five competitive matches between the sides, both Real and Chelsea have won two matches each while they share a solitary draw from the first leg at Santiago Bernabeu in the 2021 semifinal.

Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante were not part of the squad to face Brighton with the second leg in mind, while recalls for Reece James, Joao Felix and Mateo Kovacic should also be in the squad for the Tuesday evening clash.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-rcbs-virat-kohli-fined-by-bcci-for-aggressive-behaviour-in-csk-tie-583544">IPL 2023: RCB's Virat Kohli fined by BCCI for 'aggressive behaviour' in CSK tie</a>

Vinicius Junior and Toni Kroos both missed the first leg with muscular overload alongside calf victim Ferland Mendy. While the latter is definitely out, both Kroos and Vinicius should be good to go after their precautionary absences.

In the evening’s other tie, Italian giants Napoli will look to come from behind at home against a resolute AC Milan. Napoli lost the first leg 0-1 while they were recently battered 0-4 by AC Milan in the Italian Serie A. A repeat of that performance will see the seven-time champions seal a last four place while a defeat by a two-goal margin will see Napoli go through and play the winner of Benfica and Inter Milan.

Chelsea's possible starting lineup:

Kepa; James, Fofana, Silva, Cucurella; Fernandez, Kante, Kovacic; Mudryk, Havertz, Felix

Real Madrid's possible starting lineup:

Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Camavinga; Modric, Valverde, Kroos; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr

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Frank Lampard’s Chelsea will look to overturn a 0-2 deposit against Real Madrid from the first leg as they try to make the semifinal of the Champions League. The second leg between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening where the home fans will be hoping for a remarkable comeback.

Frank Lampard’s Chelsea will look to overturn a 0-2 deposit against Real Madrid from the first leg as they try to make the semifinal of the Champions League. The second leg between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening where the home fans will be hoping for a remarkable comeback. The evening will also see AC Milan eye a last four berth as they look to consolidate their 1-0 lead from the first leg against Napoli. The deciders! 🔥 Who will be celebrating at full time?#UCL pic.twitter.com/L3hXytz7oW — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 18, 2023 × Historically, whenever Chelsea and Real have met in the knockout stage, the winner of the tie has gone on to win the competition. Real won the London leg in the 2022 quarterfinal while they lost the semifinal leg in 2021. A win for them will see them book a last four berth for the third consecutive season. The match will also see the return of Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge, having served as the Chelsea manager from 2009 to 2011. In five competitive matches between the sides, both Real and Chelsea have won two matches each while they share a solitary draw from the first leg at Santiago Bernabeu in the 2021 semifinal. Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante were not part of the squad to face Brighton with the second leg in mind, while recalls for Reece James, Joao Felix and Mateo Kovacic should also be in the squad for the Tuesday evening clash. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: RCB's Virat Kohli fined by BCCI for 'aggressive behaviour' in CSK tie Vinicius Junior and Toni Kroos both missed the first leg with muscular overload alongside calf victim Ferland Mendy. While the latter is definitely out, both Kroos and Vinicius should be good to go after their precautionary absences. In the evening’s other tie, Italian giants Napoli will look to come from behind at home against a resolute AC Milan. Napoli lost the first leg 0-1 while they were recently battered 0-4 by AC Milan in the Italian Serie A. A repeat of that performance will see the seven-time champions seal a last four place while a defeat by a two-goal margin will see Napoli go through and play the winner of Benfica and Inter Milan. Chelsea's possible starting lineup: Kepa; James, Fofana, Silva, Cucurella; Fernandez, Kante, Kovacic; Mudryk, Havertz, Felix Real Madrid's possible starting lineup: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Camavinga; Modric, Valverde, Kroos; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Frank Lampard's Chelsea eye historic turnaround against Real Madrid; Milan eye SF berth

Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio struck for Real Madrid as they dominated 10-man Chelsea and opened up a 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg lead on Wednesday.

The record 14-time winners and reigning champions eased to a comfortable win against Frank Lampard's side, who had Ben Chilwell sent off in the second half for pulling down Rodrygo Goes as he ran through on goal.

Benzema netted from close range after 21 minutes after Kepa Arrizabalaga tipped a Vinicius Junior effort into his path.

Despite controlling the game, Madrid had to wait until the 74th minute for their second, with Asensio drilling home from the edge of the box after a short corner routine.

In a battle between the last two Champions League winners, Madrid demonstrated their strength with an impressive display, while Chelsea showed why they are struggling in 11th in the Premier League.

"We are satisfied with the result, for the performance but it's not over yet, we have to fight, to sacrifice for another 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"We are satisfied only for tonight, it's not over yet. We know Chelsea will try to (give) everything next week."

Ancelotti, who coached Lampard at Chelsea between 2009-2011, relied on veteran midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to pull the strings.

Lampard, in his second game at the helm since replacing Graham Potter last week, threw Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante straight into the starting line-up after injury worries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-uniteds-marcus-rashford-ruled-out-of-crunch-first-leg-vs-sevilla-with-muscle-injury-581707">Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injury</a>

<h2>AC Milan take first leg advantage</h2>

Stefano Pioli said that AC Milan should have given themselves more than a one-goal lead in their Champions League quarter-final derby with Napoli after their fellow Italians finished the first leg with 10 men.

Milan had a quarter of an hour to extend their advantage earned from Ismael Bennacer's first-half strike when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa was sent off for two quick-fire bookings.

"It's the only regret we have, we should have been more clear-headed," Pioli told reporters.

"It's a shame but they gave a lot. It's a good result after a good performance, let's hope for the next one."

Milan now have to defend a slim lead at the Stadio Maradona in Naples, with the prospect of a semi-final clash with local rivals Inter after they handily won at Benfica on Tuesday.

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Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio struck for Real Madrid as they dominated 10-man Chelsea and opened up a 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg lead on Wednesday.

Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio struck for Real Madrid as they dominated 10-man Chelsea and opened up a 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg lead on Wednesday. The record 14-time winners and reigning champions eased to a comfortable win against Frank Lampard's side, who had Ben Chilwell sent off in the second half for pulling down Rodrygo Goes as he ran through on goal. Benzema netted from close range after 21 minutes after Kepa Arrizabalaga tipped a Vinicius Junior effort into his path. Despite controlling the game, Madrid had to wait until the 74th minute for their second, with Asensio drilling home from the edge of the box after a short corner routine. In a battle between the last two Champions League winners, Madrid demonstrated their strength with an impressive display, while Chelsea showed why they are struggling in 11th in the Premier League. "We are satisfied with the result, for the performance but it's not over yet, we have to fight, to sacrifice for another 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We are satisfied only for tonight, it's not over yet. We know Chelsea will try to (give) everything next week." Ancelotti, who coached Lampard at Chelsea between 2009-2011, relied on veteran midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to pull the strings. Lampard, in his second game at the helm since replacing Graham Potter last week, threw Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante straight into the starting line-up after injury worries. ALSO READ | Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injury AC Milan take first leg advantage Stefano Pioli said that AC Milan should have given themselves more than a one-goal lead in their Champions League quarter-final derby with Napoli after their fellow Italians finished the first leg with 10 men. Milan had a quarter of an hour to extend their advantage earned from Ismael Bennacer's first-half strike when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa was sent off for two quick-fire bookings. "It's the only regret we have, we should have been more clear-headed," Pioli told reporters. "It's a shame but they gave a lot. It's a good result after a good performance, let's hope for the next one." Milan now have to defend a slim lead at the Stadio Maradona in Naples, with the prospect of a semi-final clash with local rivals Inter after they handily won at Benfica on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Real Madrid thump Chelsea 2-0 to secure early advantage; Milan beat 10-man Napoli 1-0

Frank Lampard will make his second European debut as manager for Chelsea in a crunch Champions League quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, April 12 as they take on Real Madrid. Champions from the previous two editions, both Real and Chelsea will meet for the third consecutive season in the knockout stage, with the winner going on to win the Champions League. In the other European tie of the night, AC Milan host Napoli at the San Siro.

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<h2>Lampard faces tough challenge</h2>

Frank Lampard will have the improbable job of repeating the heroics of 2012 and 2021 and leading the West London outfit to glory. Chelsea, champions of Europe in 2012 and 2021 sacked their managers in the second half of the campaign and will look to replicate those success stories. In the opposition camp, Carlo Ancelotti will be looking to add an unprecedented fifth Champions League title to his trophy cabinet as manager.

Ancelotti managed Chelsea from 2009 to 2011 before being shown the exit doors at the London side. The clash on Wednesday will be the fifth time Chelsea and Real go head-to-head, with only one win for the home side. Last season, Chelsea won the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu but eventually lost the tie in extra time.

Real will be without Ferland Mendy while the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Eder Militao and Eduardo Camavinga were rested for the La Liga clash against Villareal. With the domestic league almost out of grabs, the Champions League will be Real’s main target at the end of the season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-even-play-ravi-shastri-blasts-csk-pacer-says-he-has-become-permanent-nca-resident-581591">'You can't even play...': Ravi Shastri BLASTS CSK pacer, says he has become 'permanent NCA resident'</a>

Armando Broja (knee) and Cesar Azpilicueta are out for Chelsea while they will welcome back Mason Mount to the team, having served a suspension in the second leg against Borussia Dortmund.

In the second clash of the night, Napoli will travel to AC Milan in an all-Italian affair. Recently Napoli were thrashed 4-0 by Milan and will look to avoid a repeat of the same scoreline.

Real Madrid possible starting lineup:

Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Modric, Camavinga, Kroos; Valverde, Benzema, Vinicius Jr

Chelsea possible starting lineup:

Kepa; James, Fofana, Koulibaly, Chilwell; Kovacic, Fernandez, Kante; Sterling, Havertz, Felix

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Frank Lampard will make his second European debut as manager for Chelsea in a crunch Champions League quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, April 12 as they take on Real Madrid.

Frank Lampard will make his second European debut as manager for Chelsea in a crunch Champions League quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, April 12 as they take on Real Madrid. Champions from the previous two editions, both Real and Chelsea will meet for the third consecutive season in the knockout stage, with the winner going on to win the Champions League. In the other European tie of the night, AC Milan host Napoli at the San Siro. 🍿🍿🍿#UCL pic.twitter.com/2vs9Xkkleb — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 12, 2023 × Lampard faces tough challenge Frank Lampard will have the improbable job of repeating the heroics of 2012 and 2021 and leading the West London outfit to glory. Chelsea, champions of Europe in 2012 and 2021 sacked their managers in the second half of the campaign and will look to replicate those success stories. In the opposition camp, Carlo Ancelotti will be looking to add an unprecedented fifth Champions League title to his trophy cabinet as manager. Ancelotti managed Chelsea from 2009 to 2011 before being shown the exit doors at the London side. The clash on Wednesday will be the fifth time Chelsea and Real go head-to-head, with only one win for the home side. Last season, Chelsea won the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu but eventually lost the tie in extra time. Real will be without Ferland Mendy while the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Eder Militao and Eduardo Camavinga were rested for the La Liga clash against Villareal. With the domestic league almost out of grabs, the Champions League will be Real’s main target at the end of the season. ALSO READ | 'You can't even play...': Ravi Shastri BLASTS CSK pacer, says he has become 'permanent NCA resident' Armando Broja (knee) and Cesar Azpilicueta are out for Chelsea while they will welcome back Mason Mount to the team, having served a suspension in the second leg against Borussia Dortmund. In the second clash of the night, Napoli will travel to AC Milan in an all-Italian affair. Recently Napoli were thrashed 4-0 by Milan and will look to avoid a repeat of the same scoreline. Real Madrid possible starting lineup: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Modric, Camavinga, Kroos; Valverde, Benzema, Vinicius Jr Chelsea possible starting lineup: Kepa; James, Fofana, Koulibaly, Chilwell; Kovacic, Fernandez, Kante; Sterling, Havertz, Felix WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Frank Lampard's Chelsea face MONSTER Real Madrid challenge; Milan host Napoli in first leg

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is currently engaged in a health battle, having been diagnosed with persistent leukaemia. He is admitted to Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital and updates have been gnarly in the last few days.

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is currently engaged in a health battle, having been diagnosed with persistent leukaemia. He is admitted to Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital and updates have been gnarly in the last few days. Sympathisers have flocked to the hospital to wish for his speedy recovery - or if it is the last hurrah, to pay their respects. Throughout his colourful life, Berlusconi has always bounced back. Having been at the centre of Rome's power corridor, not once but three times, most supporters and detractors believe that it is almost difficult to knock him out - for the 86-year-old billionaire, nicknamed Il Cavaliere (The Knight) always bounces back. Combining his shrewd business acumen with tactical political nuance, Berlusconi has managed to remain in the news cycle, year after year, despite last serving as the prime minister in 2011. ALSO READ | Former Italy prime minister Silvio Berlusconi diagnosed with leukaemia, battling lung infection His last years in power were often marred by allegations of sex and corruption scandals with infamous “bunga bunga” sex parties at the Arcore mansion taking the cake. Despite all the dirt thrown his way, only tax-fraud allegations have managed to stick and send him to prison. The genesis Born in 1936 to a middle-class family, Berlusconi's rise to power is a story that should inspire most, if it is not for his unconventional life choices. Currently the owner of broadcasting giant Mediaset, he first entered the world of media in 1973 by setting up a small cable television company called TeleMilano. The channel would later evolve into Canale 5 as Berlusconi bought two more channels before moving his operations to central Milan and broadcasting over the airwaves. This move would eventually pave way for his modern-day media mogul status as the owner of Mediaset which would also fuel his political aspirations. The political life of Berlusconi Berlusconi founded Italy's centre-right party Forza Italia in the summer of 1994 to beat the 'communists'. His party pioneered the populist brand of politics in the European country and propelled him to the higher echelons of the bureaucracy. WATCH | Italian Envoy: Will contribute to India's G20 Presidency success He won the 1994 general election by forging alliances, some not to his liking but necessary to gain the majority and managed to come to power by securing 21 per cent of the popular vote -- more than any other single party. However, his first stint as the prime minister was brief as fractures within the haphazardly stitched coalition with the rightwing National Alliance and Northern League widened and he had to vacate the position. In 2001, he returned to power and his government went on to become the longest-serving in Italy's history since the world war. At the pinnacle of his power, Berlusconi in 2006 declared himself "the Jesus Christ of politics". In 2008, he went on to taste success for the third time and became the PM for another term. However, over the next three years, he faced over 50 votes of confidence. In 2009, Patrizia D'Addario, a prostitute went on national Tv and claimed that the PM slept with him knowing her profession. What followed was an unravelling as allegations of 'bunga-bunga' sex parties smeared his name. In 2011, he stepped down as the PM. However, to this day, he leads his party and is an elected senator. The story behind his status as a present-day senator is another example of his tenacity to grind out results. After Senate expelled him due to a tax fraud conviction in 2013, many thought it was the end of the road for Berlusconi as he was banned from holding public office for six years. However, after serving a sentence of community service, a court ruled he could once again hold public office and he won a seat in the European Parliament in 2019. The sporting interests of Berlusconi Apart from his obvious interests, Berlusconi is known for his sporting taste. He owned the decorated Seria A club AC Milan for over three decades before selling it to Chinese investors for $858 million in 2017. After selling his prized team, Berlusconi went on to buy small Lombardy side AC Monza for an estimated $3.4 million and since then, through his holding company Fininvest, he has poured over $76 million into the club. The result? AC Monza has climbed from the third tier of Italian football to Seria A within a five-year timespan - a feat that most 'Football Manager' players may not be able to achieve. Recently, Berlusconi made media waves after he openly criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy - thereby drawing a sharp response from Kyiv of being a Putin propaganda soldier. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

From serving as PM thrice to hosting 'bunga-bunga' parties - the controversial life of Silvio Berlusconi

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London.

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<h3>PSG hunt for a place in last eight</h3>

PSG will have a big task in their hands as they make their way to the Allianz Arena to face the record Bundesliga champions for a place in the quarterfinal. The French side lost the first leg 0-1 at home and will have to at least score once to overcome the deposit. However, the biggest drawback for them will be the absence of Neymar and Achraf Hakimi. While the Brazilian is to miss the rest of the season with an injury, Hakimi has been involved in a rape case and is undergoing a trial.

Bayern on the flip side are having some battle both domestically and in Europe as they look to consolidate their position in the second leg. Currently sitting top of the pile in the Bundesliga on goal difference, they will be aware of the fact that the Champions League tie is far from over. A draw will see them book their berth in the last eight while even a defeat could see them make the next stage.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rohit-sharma-aims-to-emulate-sunil-gavaskars-elite-feat-in-test-series-finale-in-ahmedabad-569904">IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad</a></h3>

<h3>Tottenham host AC Milan</h3>

In the other clash of the night, Spurs will play host to AC Milan at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having trailed 0-1 from the first leg. Manager Antonio Conte is expected to be back for the return leg in London having been away from the side due to health issues. Both the teams lost their weekend matches as Spurs were dismantled 0-1 by Wolves while Milan lost 1-2 against Fiorentina.

A win by a two-goal margin will see the London side make the final eight while a draw should be good enough for the Italian side to book their passage in the latter stage.

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London.

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London. All to play for! 👊 Who will progress? #UCL pic.twitter.com/H74SBO3rbI — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 8, 2023 × PSG hunt for a place in last eight PSG will have a big task in their hands as they make their way to the Allianz Arena to face the record Bundesliga champions for a place in the quarterfinal. The French side lost the first leg 0-1 at home and will have to at least score once to overcome the deposit. However, the biggest drawback for them will be the absence of Neymar and Achraf Hakimi. While the Brazilian is to miss the rest of the season with an injury, Hakimi has been involved in a rape case and is undergoing a trial. Bayern on the flip side are having some battle both domestically and in Europe as they look to consolidate their position in the second leg. Currently sitting top of the pile in the Bundesliga on goal difference, they will be aware of the fact that the Champions League tie is far from over. A draw will see them book their berth in the last eight while even a defeat could see them make the next stage. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad Tottenham host AC Milan In the other clash of the night, Spurs will play host to AC Milan at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having trailed 0-1 from the first leg. Manager Antonio Conte is expected to be back for the return leg in London having been away from the side due to health issues. Both the teams lost their weekend matches as Spurs were dismantled 0-1 by Wolves while Milan lost 1-2 against Fiorentina. A win by a two-goal margin will see the London side make the final eight while a draw should be good enough for the Italian side to book their passage in the latter stage.

Champions League: Wounded PSG face Bayern in Germany; Spurs host AC Milan in crunch second leg

Ahead of his highly-anticipated return to football, Zlatan Ibrahimović, in his own style has announced that he is still the number one in the sport. "I'm still God, I'm still number one.

Ahead of his highly-anticipated return to football, Zlatan Ibrahimović, in his own style has announced that he is still the number one in the sport. "I'm still God, I'm still number one. Now let's change the music when I get back. I really want to do many things, after what I have lost in these months. I wasted time," he was quoted as saying by Sport Mediaset. The Swede will be returning to football after a nine-month hiatus. He added that he was feeling 'fine' after following a patient recovery process. "I’m fine, I’m very fine! I’ve returned to the group and I feel free, free on and off the pitch. It means I’m fine. In this period I’ve done everything to help the coach, staff and club from outside. I was patient because I had to come back at the top, the recovery is going according to plan." Read more: 'It's written...': Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup Ibrahimovic was on the sidelines following ACL surgery. He sustained the injury during the 2021-22 season but still helped AC Milan to a Scudetto triumph after 11 long years. After his side lifted the trophy, Ibrahimović took to his social media accounts to highlight how he had been playing. "For the past six months, I played without an ACL in my left knee. Swollen knee for six months. I was only able to train with the team 10 times in the last six months," wrote the AC Milan player. "Took more than 20 injections in six months. Emptied the knee once a week for six months. Painkillers every day for six months. Barely slept for six months because of the pain." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zlatan Ibrahimović (@iamzlatanibrahimovic) × Many had feared that Ibrahimovic would not be able to make a comeback after going under the knife, especially at his age. However, putting retirement murmurs to rest, the former Manchester United player will take the field in AC Milan's next Serie A fixture against Torino on Friday at San Siro. Read more: Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals he was close to joining Napoli before AC Milan return (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I'm still God': Zlatan Ibrahimović is confident prior to his return to competitive football

AC Milan reached the Champions League knock-out stage for the first time in nine years on Wednesday with a 4-0 victory over Salzburg, while RB Leipzig also qualified by thrashing Shakhtar Donetsk. Paris Saint-Germain will be the team group winners want to avoid in Monday's last-16 draw after missing out on top spot in Group H despite a 2-1 win at Juventus, as Benfica hammered Maccabi Haifa 6-1 to snatch a first place on total away goals.

Seven-time European champions Milan knew a point would be enough to send them into the last 16 for the first time since the 2013-14 season after a group-stage exit last term. "These kinds of nights is what we wish for," Milan coach Stefano Pioli told Sky Sport. "We wanted to show we improved compared to last season in the Champions League. We're ambitious now, so let's see what happens next."

Pioli's side eased any nerves at the San Siro inside 14 minutes as Olivier Giroud headed home. Milan's return to the knockouts was all but confirmed less than a minute after half-time when Giroud headed the ball across goal for Rade Krunic to nod past Philipp Kohn in the Salzburg goal. Giroud added his second before the hour mark, allowing the home fans the opportunity to celebrate for the remainder of the match and Junior Messias added further gloss to the scoreline in added time.

Milan qualified from Group E in second place behind Chelsea, who came from behind to beat Dinamo Zagreb 2-1 at Stamford Bridge with goals from Raheem Sterling and debutant Denis Zakaria. Leipzig also only needed to avoid defeat to go through against Ukrainians Shakhtar in Warsaw. Shakhtar, playing their home matches in Poland and having seen most of their foreign players leave due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, had stunned Leipzig 4-1 in their Group F opener.

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But the Bundesliga side were too strong after Christopher Nkunku's early strike left Shakhtar with a mountain to climb. Andre Silva and Dominik Szoboszlai netted in the second period and Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his own net by Valeriy Bondar to wrap up a 4-0 win. "I'm really proud of the team. We didn't start well in this Champions League campaign, but we put in a solid performance today and are really happy to be through," Leipzig forward Emil Forsberg told DAZN.

Holders Real Madrid secured first place in the group by hammering Scottish champions Celtic 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Luka Modric and Rodrygo both scored penalties awarded for handball in the opening stages, before Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saved Josip Juranovic's spot-kick. Second-half goals from Marco Asensio, Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde completed the rout despite Jota's late consolation for Celtic who finished bottom. Karim Benzema also made his return from injury as a substitute to complete a good night for Carlo Ancelotti's men.

- Benfica snatch first from PSG -

PSG lost top spot in Group H despite Nuno Mendes' 69th-minute winner in Turin as Benfica scored five goals in the second half at Maccabi. Kylian Mbappe's brilliant individual effort put PSG in front, before Leonardo Bonucci dragged the already-eliminated Juventus level. Mendes scored only a minute after coming off the bench, but late drama in Israel saw PSG slip to second. Possible last-16 opponents for the Qatari-owned club include 14-time champions Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and in-form Napoli.

"It doesn't matter, we qualified... We'll watch the draw and we'll play to win," Mbappe told RMC Sport. Three goals in 14 minutes in the second half gave Benfica hope of matching PSG's goal difference and pipping them on away goals. It appeared as though the Portuguese would come up two short, but Henrique Araujo scored in the 88th minute and Joao Mario struck in injury time to complete the job. "As the game progressed, we saw that it was within our reach," Goncalo Ramos, who scored Benfica's third goal, told Eleven Sports.

Juventus will drop into the Europa League after finishing third despite losing five of their six group matches. Manchester City came from behind to round off their Group G campaign with a 3-1 win over Sevilla at the Etihad. Rafa Mir gave the Spaniards the lead, but 17-year-old full-back Rico Lewis fired City level. Julian Alvarez and Riyad Mahrez sealed all three points for Pep Guardiola's Premier League champions, who were still without the injured Erling Haaland. Borussia Dortmund were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Copenhagen.

AC Milan reached the Champions League knock-out stage for the first time in nine years on Wednesday with a 4-0 victory over Salzburg, while RB Leipzig also qualified by thrashing Shakhtar Donetsk.

AC Milan reached the Champions League knock-out stage for the first time in nine years on Wednesday with a 4-0 victory over Salzburg, while RB Leipzig also qualified by thrashing Shakhtar Donetsk. Paris Saint-Germain will be the team group winners want to avoid in Monday's last-16 draw after missing out on top spot in Group H despite a 2-1 win at Juventus, as Benfica hammered Maccabi Haifa 6-1 to snatch a first place on total away goals. Seven-time European champions Milan knew a point would be enough to send them into the last 16 for the first time since the 2013-14 season after a group-stage exit last term. "These kinds of nights is what we wish for," Milan coach Stefano Pioli told Sky Sport. "We wanted to show we improved compared to last season in the Champions League. We're ambitious now, so let's see what happens next." Pioli's side eased any nerves at the San Siro inside 14 minutes as Olivier Giroud headed home. Milan's return to the knockouts was all but confirmed less than a minute after half-time when Giroud headed the ball across goal for Rade Krunic to nod past Philipp Kohn in the Salzburg goal. Giroud added his second before the hour mark, allowing the home fans the opportunity to celebrate for the remainder of the match and Junior Messias added further gloss to the scoreline in added time. Milan qualified from Group E in second place behind Chelsea, who came from behind to beat Dinamo Zagreb 2-1 at Stamford Bridge with goals from Raheem Sterling and debutant Denis Zakaria. Leipzig also only needed to avoid defeat to go through against Ukrainians Shakhtar in Warsaw. Shakhtar, playing their home matches in Poland and having seen most of their foreign players leave due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, had stunned Leipzig 4-1 in their Group F opener. ALSO READ | Fake World Cup trophies seized in Qatar But the Bundesliga side were too strong after Christopher Nkunku's early strike left Shakhtar with a mountain to climb. Andre Silva and Dominik Szoboszlai netted in the second period and Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his own net by Valeriy Bondar to wrap up a 4-0 win. "I'm really proud of the team. We didn't start well in this Champions League campaign, but we put in a solid performance today and are really happy to be through," Leipzig forward Emil Forsberg told DAZN. Holders Real Madrid secured first place in the group by hammering Scottish champions Celtic 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Luka Modric and Rodrygo both scored penalties awarded for handball in the opening stages, before Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saved Josip Juranovic's spot-kick. Second-half goals from Marco Asensio, Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde completed the rout despite Jota's late consolation for Celtic who finished bottom. Karim Benzema also made his return from injury as a substitute to complete a good night for Carlo Ancelotti's men. - Benfica snatch first from PSG - PSG lost top spot in Group H despite Nuno Mendes' 69th-minute winner in Turin as Benfica scored five goals in the second half at Maccabi. Kylian Mbappe's brilliant individual effort put PSG in front, before Leonardo Bonucci dragged the already-eliminated Juventus level. Mendes scored only a minute after coming off the bench, but late drama in Israel saw PSG slip to second. Possible last-16 opponents for the Qatari-owned club include 14-time champions Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and in-form Napoli. "It doesn't matter, we qualified... We'll watch the draw and we'll play to win," Mbappe told RMC Sport. Three goals in 14 minutes in the second half gave Benfica hope of matching PSG's goal difference and pipping them on away goals. It appeared as though the Portuguese would come up two short, but Henrique Araujo scored in the 88th minute and Joao Mario struck in injury time to complete the job. "As the game progressed, we saw that it was within our reach," Goncalo Ramos, who scored Benfica's third goal, told Eleven Sports. Juventus will drop into the Europa League after finishing third despite losing five of their six group matches. Manchester City came from behind to round off their Group G campaign with a 3-1 win over Sevilla at the Etihad. Rafa Mir gave the Spaniards the lead, but 17-year-old full-back Rico Lewis fired City level. Julian Alvarez and Riyad Mahrez sealed all three points for Pep Guardiola's Premier League champions, who were still without the injured Erling Haaland. Borussia Dortmund were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Copenhagen.

AC Milan enter Champions League last-16 after nine years, PSG concede top spot

Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has made his desire to play at a Champions League-bound club extremely apparent. He was offered a brief respite after AC Milan expressed interest in the Portuguese star to replace their star-forward Rafael Leao, who was being eyed by Premier League giants Chelsea.

However, it seems like Ronaldo will have to make do with domestic action as the transfer offer for Leao, who he was expected to replace, has been rejected by Milan. The Rossoneri were previously eyeing the 37-year-old in case they were to lose his compatriot. However, those plans have seemingly fallen through as The Blues faltered in their pursuit of one of the hottest Serie A talents.&nbsp;

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Chelsea's advances for the&nbsp;23-year-old winger's services were rejected after they offered £69million.&nbsp;AC technical director Paulo Maldini is believed to have poured cold water over Chelsea, subsequently Ronaldo's dream, by blocking their prized asset's move to London.

The Italian defensive maestro is said to be holding out for a release clause which is worth a whopping&nbsp;£130m for Leao. It is essential to note that the young Portuguese talent's importance in the team cannot be understated as he played a vital role in earning the Rossoneri the title last season.&nbsp;

Leao enjoyed an uber-successful outing in the iconic red and black jersey in the 2021-22 season, scoring 14 goals in addition to recording 12 assists over the course of 42 games. His exceptional performance across the season is also what piqued the interest of the London-based outfit.

However, with the deal currently dead in the water, Chelsea will have to rely on the signings that they have brought on after parting ways with over&nbsp;£250 million on players like Raheem Sterling, Marc Cucurella, Kalidou Koulibaly and more.

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In the wake of these developments, it seems like Cristiano Ronaldo will have to continue his stint at Old Trafford, that is at least until the next transfer window rolls around.

Red Devils frontman Erik ten Hag has insisted that the five-time Ballon d'Ór winner will be playing a role in United's campaign this season. Whether that statement stands the test of time is something that remains to be seen.&nbsp;

Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has made his desire to play at a Champions League-bound club extremely apparent. He was offered a brief respite after AC Milan expressed interest in the Portuguese star to replace their star-forward Rafael Leao, who was being eyed by Premier League giants Chelsea.

Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo has made his desire to play at a Champions League-bound club extremely apparent. He was offered a brief respite after AC Milan expressed interest in the Portuguese star to replace their star-forward Rafael Leao, who was being eyed by Premier League giants Chelsea. However, it seems like Ronaldo will have to make do with domestic action as the transfer offer for Leao, who he was expected to replace, has been rejected by Milan. The Rossoneri were previously eyeing the 37-year-old in case they were to lose his compatriot. However, those plans have seemingly fallen through as The Blues faltered in their pursuit of one of the hottest Serie A talents. ALSO READ: Chelsea agree to a £10M swap deal with Barcelona as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returns to London Chelsea's advances for the 23-year-old winger's services were rejected after they offered £69million. AC technical director Paulo Maldini is believed to have poured cold water over Chelsea, subsequently Ronaldo's dream, by blocking their prized asset's move to London. The Italian defensive maestro is said to be holding out for a release clause which is worth a whopping £130m for Leao. It is essential to note that the young Portuguese talent's importance in the team cannot be understated as he played a vital role in earning the Rossoneri the title last season. Leao enjoyed an uber-successful outing in the iconic red and black jersey in the 2021-22 season, scoring 14 goals in addition to recording 12 assists over the course of 42 games. His exceptional performance across the season is also what piqued the interest of the London-based outfit. However, with the deal currently dead in the water, Chelsea will have to rely on the signings that they have brought on after parting ways with over £250 million on players like Raheem Sterling, Marc Cucurella, Kalidou Koulibaly and more. ALSO READ: Dinamo Zagreb onboard their first set of international players from Gokulam Kerala FC In the wake of these developments, it seems like Cristiano Ronaldo will have to continue his stint at Old Trafford, that is at least until the next transfer window rolls around. Red Devils frontman Erik ten Hag has insisted that the five-time Ballon d'Ór winner will be playing a role in United's campaign this season. Whether that statement stands the test of time is something that remains to be seen.

Cristiano Ronaldo's UCL dreams dashed as AC Milan reject Chelsea's offer for Rafael Leao: Reports

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star&nbsp;Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament.

Shevchenko, who has featured in the lineups of some of the most dominant European teams like AC Milan and Chelsea, revealed that he had been entrusted with the responsibility to spread awareness about their situation and attract financial support from the international community for medical and humanitarian aid.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/moved-away-from-the-racial-side-raheem-sterling-admits-racial-abuse-didnt-stop-him-from-joining-chelsea-506201">‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea</a>

"The message is very clear. Since the war started, Ukraine needs a lot of help.&nbsp;I'm here, as part of the UNITED24 platform, to bring awareness and talk about the war to try to find the funds for humanitarian and medical aid, because this is what, at this moment, Ukraine needs. We need some support...&nbsp;to keep going for our future, our independence, and our democratic way."

The 2004 Ballon d'Or winner recently visited Poland for a meet-and-greet with children&nbsp;who had fled the country, evading war and are currently facing an uncertain future as refugees.

During his tour of the country, he waxed lyrical about the philanthropic efforts of fellow athletes, Iga Swiatek and Robert Lewandowski. The former recently organized and starred in a charity match to raise funds for Ukrainians in need of financial support.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-beats-teammates-in-a-sprint-after-being-benched-due-to-fitness-issues-505872" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo beats Manchester United teammates in a sprint after being benched due to fitness issues</a>

"This is very important because, at the moment, athletes are icons for the younger generation.&nbsp;For people to take a position against the war is very important, to send the message across the world to be against the war and to support peace in Ukraine."

Although Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been covered extensively by the international media, Shevchenko urged countries not to forget about them as the news cycle tends to move on. He offered fans insight into their situation, claiming that the country and its citizens repeatedly found themselves at the receiving end of bombs.

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament.

As Ukraine battles Russia's invasion of their country, their national team's star Andriy Shevchenko recently urged countries not to forget about their predicament. Shevchenko, who has featured in the lineups of some of the most dominant European teams like AC Milan and Chelsea, revealed that he had been entrusted with the responsibility to spread awareness about their situation and attract financial support from the international community for medical and humanitarian aid. ALSO READ: ‘Moved away from...’- Raheem Sterling reveals racial abuse didn’t stop him from joining Chelsea "The message is very clear. Since the war started, Ukraine needs a lot of help. I'm here, as part of the UNITED24 platform, to bring awareness and talk about the war to try to find the funds for humanitarian and medical aid, because this is what, at this moment, Ukraine needs. We need some support... to keep going for our future, our independence, and our democratic way." The 2004 Ballon d'Or winner recently visited Poland for a meet-and-greet with children who had fled the country, evading war and are currently facing an uncertain future as refugees. During his tour of the country, he waxed lyrical about the philanthropic efforts of fellow athletes, Iga Swiatek and Robert Lewandowski. The former recently organized and starred in a charity match to raise funds for Ukrainians in need of financial support. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo beats Manchester United teammates in a sprint after being benched due to fitness issues "This is very important because, at the moment, athletes are icons for the younger generation. For people to take a position against the war is very important, to send the message across the world to be against the war and to support peace in Ukraine." Although Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been covered extensively by the international media, Shevchenko urged countries not to forget about them as the news cycle tends to move on. He offered fans insight into their situation, claiming that the country and its citizens repeatedly found themselves at the receiving end of bombs.

'Support peace in Ukraine'- Former Chelsea star and Ballon d'Or winner calls for int'l backing in war effort

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko has broken his silence after being held at gunpoint by the Italian police while driving on the streets of Milan earlier this month. In what was a case of mistaken identity, Bakayoko's car was stopped in downtown Milan and he was asked to get out of the vehicle before being searched by a group of police officers.

He was pulled out of his car at gunpoint while two officers stood pointing guns towards his vehicle with a couple of his friends inside. Bakayoko was mistaken for a shooting suspect as a shooting incident had taken place in the area hours before, as per the Milan Police and Bakyoko's appearance matched that of the description of the suspect with them.

A video of the incident which took place on July 3 went viral on social media earlier this week after being shared by an Italian reporter on Twitter. In the video, the AC Milan midfielder can be seen standing with his hands up as a police officer checks his pockets and places his stuff on top of a patrol car.

It was only after another police officer informed the one conducting the check on Bakayoko that he was a footballer, who played for the local club AC Milan that the French midfielder was let go of as the matter de-escalated. Bakayoko has now opened up on the incident for the first time and slammed the Milan Police for the manner in which he was held at gunpoint.

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Shocking footage of Milan’s Bakayoko in Milan’s downtown held at gunpoint by police cause taken for someone else. 
 
Check when one of cop goes telling to the colleague searching him that it’s not the suspect but a Milan player, and the cop saying “WHO?!?” 
<a href="https://t.co/B0PTYiXnc5">pic.twitter.com/B0PTYiXnc5</a>
— Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) <a href="https://twitter.com/tancredipalmeri/status/1548928848439508992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The 28-year-old midfielder, who is on a two-year loan to AC Milan from English Premier League club Chelsea, said he has no issues with the error made by the police officers but has a problem with the manner and the methodology used by them. Bakayoko said had he not kept his cool, the consequences could have been worse.

“The error is human, I have no problem with it, on the other hand, I have a problem with the manner and methodology that were used," Bakayoko said in a video posted on his Instagram account. 
&nbsp; 
“The consequences could have been so much more serious if I had not kept my cool," he said. “What would have happened if I hadn’t had the chance to do the job I do and be recognised in time? What would have been the aftermath of all this," he added.

Bakyoko was part of AC Milan's Serie A-winning squad last season but didn't have a great season on the personal front. He is likely to leave Milan this summer and get a permanent move away from Chelsea.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-someone-hacked-barcelonas-account-sergio-aguero-opens-up-on-lionel-messis-exit-from-barca-499219">'Thought someone hacked Barcelona's account': Aguero opens up on Messi's exit from Barca</a>

The French midfielder, who has now lived in Milan for a year, said the footage shown in the video that has surfaced online is the 'calmest' part of his interaction with the police officers and that he feared for his life during the incident.

“You have to know that I found myself with the gun a meter away from me… They clearly put our lives in danger," said Bakayoko.

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko has broken his silence after being held at gunpoint by the Italian police while driving on the streets of Milan earlier this month.

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko has broken his silence after being held at gunpoint by the Italian police while driving on the streets of Milan earlier this month. In what was a case of mistaken identity, Bakayoko's car was stopped in downtown Milan and he was asked to get out of the vehicle before being searched by a group of police officers. He was pulled out of his car at gunpoint while two officers stood pointing guns towards his vehicle with a couple of his friends inside. Bakayoko was mistaken for a shooting suspect as a shooting incident had taken place in the area hours before, as per the Milan Police and Bakyoko's appearance matched that of the description of the suspect with them. A video of the incident which took place on July 3 went viral on social media earlier this week after being shared by an Italian reporter on Twitter. In the video, the AC Milan midfielder can be seen standing with his hands up as a police officer checks his pockets and places his stuff on top of a patrol car. It was only after another police officer informed the one conducting the check on Bakayoko that he was a footballer, who played for the local club AC Milan that the French midfielder was let go of as the matter de-escalated. Bakayoko has now opened up on the incident for the first time and slammed the Milan Police for the manner in which he was held at gunpoint. Shocking footage of Milan’s Bakayoko in Milan’s downtown held at gunpoint by police cause taken for someone else. Check when one of cop goes telling to the colleague searching him that it’s not the suspect but a Milan player, and the cop saying “WHO?!?” pic.twitter.com/B0PTYiXnc5 — Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) July 18, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH - AC Milan footballer Tiemoue Bakayoko held at gunpoint by Italian police, video goes viral The 28-year-old midfielder, who is on a two-year loan to AC Milan from English Premier League club Chelsea, said he has no issues with the error made by the police officers but has a problem with the manner and the methodology used by them. Bakayoko said had he not kept his cool, the consequences could have been worse. “The error is human, I have no problem with it, on the other hand, I have a problem with the manner and methodology that were used," Bakayoko said in a video posted on his Instagram account. “The consequences could have been so much more serious if I had not kept my cool," he said. “What would have happened if I hadn’t had the chance to do the job I do and be recognised in time? What would have been the aftermath of all this," he added. Bakyoko was part of AC Milan's Serie A-winning squad last season but didn't have a great season on the personal front. He is likely to leave Milan this summer and get a permanent move away from Chelsea. Also Read: 'Thought someone hacked Barcelona's account': Aguero opens up on Messi's exit from Barca The French midfielder, who has now lived in Milan for a year, said the footage shown in the video that has surfaced online is the 'calmest' part of his interaction with the police officers and that he feared for his life during the incident. “You have to know that I found myself with the gun a meter away from me… They clearly put our lives in danger," said Bakayoko.

AC Milan's Bakayoko breaks silence on being held at gunpoint by police: 'Have problem with methodology used'

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was held at gunpoint by the Italian police and a video of the incident has gone viral on social media. Bakayoko, who is currently on loan to AC Milan from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea, was searched by the Italian police in downtown Milan in what turned out to be a case of mistaken identity.

In the video shared by Italian journalist Tancredi Palmer, the 27-year-old French star can be seen pinned against his car with an Italian police officer searching his pockets and placing the objects found on the top of his car. Meanwhile, two police officers can be seen standing pointing guns at the footballer's car.

Bakayoko, who was part of AC Milan's Serie A-winning squad last season, can be seen staying calm as the police officer searches him in suspicion. He cooperates with the officer before another male police officer heads to his colleague searching Bakayoko and appears to inform&nbsp;him about his identity.

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Shocking footage of Milan’s Bakayoko in Milan’s downtown held at gunpoint by police cause taken for someone else. 
 
Check when one of cop goes telling to the colleague searching him that it’s not the suspect but a Milan player, and the cop saying “WHO?!?” 
<a href="https://t.co/B0PTYiXnc5">pic.twitter.com/B0PTYiXnc5</a>
— Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) <a href="https://twitter.com/tancredipalmeri/status/1548928848439508992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The matter de-escalated soon after the Italian officers came to know about the footballer's identity with the Milan Police later releasing an official statement to confirm it was a case of mistaken identity and the AC Milan footballer was pinned by mistake.

The Milan Police HQ also informed that the incident happened on July 03 and that the AC Milan midfielder had to be stopped as a shooting incident had happened in the area in the previous hours and Bakayoko fitted the description shared of the suspects.

“The search, happened on 3 July, was due to gun shooting happened in the area in previous hours, and the two suspected were two men on a guy fitting the description, one of the two was black and with green shirt. That’s why the gunpoint,"&nbsp;&nbsp;Milan's Police HQ said in an official statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-likely-to-reject-whopping-276-million-per-season-offer-from-saudi-club-report-498035">Ronaldo likely to reject whopping $276 million per season offer from Saudi club - Report</a>

Bakayoko made 14 appearances for AC Milan last season after joining the Italian club on a two-year loan deal from Chelsea. However, the French midfielder has failed to impress in his time so far with the&nbsp;Rossoneri. He is expected to leave AC Milan this summer and get a permanent move away from Chelsea with the likes of Valencia and French club Marseille interested.

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was held at gunpoint by the Italian police and a video of the incident has gone viral on social media. Bakayoko, who is currently on loan to AC Milan from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea, was searched by the Italian police in downtown Milan in what turned out to be a case of mistaken identity.

AC Milan midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was held at gunpoint by the Italian police and a video of the incident has gone viral on social media. Bakayoko, who is currently on loan to AC Milan from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea, was searched by the Italian police in downtown Milan in what turned out to be a case of mistaken identity. In the video shared by Italian journalist Tancredi Palmer, the 27-year-old French star can be seen pinned against his car with an Italian police officer searching his pockets and placing the objects found on the top of his car. Meanwhile, two police officers can be seen standing pointing guns at the footballer's car. Bakayoko, who was part of AC Milan's Serie A-winning squad last season, can be seen staying calm as the police officer searches him in suspicion. He cooperates with the officer before another male police officer heads to his colleague searching Bakayoko and appears to inform him about his identity. Shocking footage of Milan’s Bakayoko in Milan’s downtown held at gunpoint by police cause taken for someone else. Check when one of cop goes telling to the colleague searching him that it’s not the suspect but a Milan player, and the cop saying “WHO?!?” pic.twitter.com/B0PTYiXnc5 — Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) July 18, 2022 × Also Read: Lisandro Martinez to Manchester United confirmed as club agrees deal with Ajax to sign Argentine defender The matter de-escalated soon after the Italian officers came to know about the footballer's identity with the Milan Police later releasing an official statement to confirm it was a case of mistaken identity and the AC Milan footballer was pinned by mistake. The Milan Police HQ also informed that the incident happened on July 03 and that the AC Milan midfielder had to be stopped as a shooting incident had happened in the area in the previous hours and Bakayoko fitted the description shared of the suspects. “The search, happened on 3 July, was due to gun shooting happened in the area in previous hours, and the two suspected were two men on a guy fitting the description, one of the two was black and with green shirt. That’s why the gunpoint," Milan's Police HQ said in an official statement. Also Read: Ronaldo likely to reject whopping $276 million per season offer from Saudi club - Report Bakayoko made 14 appearances for AC Milan last season after joining the Italian club on a two-year loan deal from Chelsea. However, the French midfielder has failed to impress in his time so far with the Rossoneri. He is expected to leave AC Milan this summer and get a permanent move away from Chelsea with the likes of Valencia and French club Marseille interested.

WATCH: AC Milan footballer Tiemoue Bakayoko held at gunpoint by Italian police, video goes viral

In the football fraternity, the comparisons between Portugal captain and Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina's skipper and Paris Saint Germain (PSG)'s&nbsp;star Lionel Messi keep&nbsp;happening from time to time.&nbsp;

The debate regarding the better footballer between the two superstars also seems to be never-ending. Be it statistics, fitness or overall skills, there's not much seperating the duo. Hence, many remain perpelxed when asked to pick one between Ronaldo and Messi. However, as far as AC Milan legend Marco van Basten is concerned, he feels there is a clear winner among the duo.

"Cristiano is a great player, but those who say he is better than Messi know nothing about football, or they are saying it in bad faith," the 57-year-old said in an interview with&nbsp;Corriere dello Sport. "Messi is one of a kind. Impossible to imitate and impossible to repeat. A player like him comes along every 50 or 100 years. As a kid, he fell into the football genius pot," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-viral-clip-explains-why-argentina-captain-lionel-messi-deserves-to-be-studied-in-schools-489085">WATCH: Viral clip explains why Argentina captain Lionel Messi deserves to be studied in schools</a>

Further, the 57-year-old Dutchman also revealed his three all-time greatest footballers, which didn't include&nbsp;Ronaldo as well as Messi. "Pele, [Diego] Maradona and [Johan] Cruyff are for me the three greatest players in history," Van Basten told&nbsp;Marca.&nbsp;"As a kid I wanted to be like Cruyff. He was my friend. I miss him. Pele and Maradona were also incredible. Messi is also a great player, but Maradona always had more personality in a team. Messi is not the one who puts himself at the front to go to war. I'm not forgetting Cristiano Ronaldo, [Michel] Platini or [Zinedine] Zidane," he further added.

<section>Talking about Ronaldo and Messi's form, the two had average seasons by their own standards. The Portugese striker returned to Manchester United last year and scored 16 goals as the Red Devils finished sixth in EPL 2021/22. On the other hand, Messi shifted base from Barcelona to PSG and scored 11 goals&nbsp;across all competitions. He, however, led Argentina to the Copa America title in mid-2021 and Finalissima 2022.</section>

In the football fraternity, the comparisons between Portugal captain and Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina's skipper and Paris Saint Germain (PSG)'s star Lionel Messi keep happening from time to time.

In the football fraternity, the comparisons between Portugal captain and Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina's skipper and Paris Saint Germain (PSG)'s star Lionel Messi keep happening from time to time. The debate regarding the better footballer between the two superstars also seems to be never-ending. Be it statistics, fitness or overall skills, there's not much seperating the duo. Hence, many remain perpelxed when asked to pick one between Ronaldo and Messi. However, as far as AC Milan legend Marco van Basten is concerned, he feels there is a clear winner among the duo. "Cristiano is a great player, but those who say he is better than Messi know nothing about football, or they are saying it in bad faith," the 57-year-old said in an interview with Corriere dello Sport. "Messi is one of a kind. Impossible to imitate and impossible to repeat. A player like him comes along every 50 or 100 years. As a kid, he fell into the football genius pot," he opined. ALSO READ | WATCH: Viral clip explains why Argentina captain Lionel Messi deserves to be studied in schools Further, the 57-year-old Dutchman also revealed his three all-time greatest footballers, which didn't include Ronaldo as well as Messi. "Pele, [Diego] Maradona and [Johan] Cruyff are for me the three greatest players in history," Van Basten told Marca. "As a kid I wanted to be like Cruyff. He was my friend. I miss him. Pele and Maradona were also incredible. Messi is also a great player, but Maradona always had more personality in a team. Messi is not the one who puts himself at the front to go to war. I'm not forgetting Cristiano Ronaldo, [Michel] Platini or [Zinedine] Zidane," he further added. Talking about Ronaldo and Messi's form, the two had average seasons by their own standards. The Portugese striker returned to Manchester United last year and scored 16 goals as the Red Devils finished sixth in EPL 2021/22. On the other hand, Messi shifted base from Barcelona to PSG and scored 11 goals across all competitions. He, however, led Argentina to the Copa America title in mid-2021 and Finalissima 2022.

'Those who say Ronaldo is better than Messi...' - Van Basten feels there's clear winner between the two

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again.

Under the terms of the deal, current owners Elliott, the U.S. private equity group, will retain a minority investment and seats on the board, the club said on Wednesday.

Milan have just won the Italian Serie A league title for the first time in 11 years.

"We... are excited to play a role in the club`s next chapter as it returns to its rightful place at the very top of Italian, European and world football," RedBird founder and managing partner Gerry Cardinale said in a statement.

RedBird is already an investor in Fenway Sports Group, the owner of Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox baseball team. RedBird also has a controlling stake in French soccer club Toulouse.

"RedBird`s investment philosophy and track record in team ownership has shown that football clubs can be successful on the pitch and sustainable off it," Cardinale added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-line-i-have-a-family-manchester-united-star-harry-maguire-breaks-silence-on-bomb-threat-484024">'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat</a>

Italian soccer clubs have recently become a popular target for overseas investors, attracted by cheaper valuations compared with those of England`s Premier League and rivals in major European leagues.

Milan were a dominant force in European soccer under the previous ownership of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi but won the Champions League for the last time in 2007.

The transition to new ownership will take place over the summer, with an expected closing of the deal no later than September, the club statement added.

Milan, European Cup winners seven times, will be looking to strengthen their ranks during the close season to help defend their Italian league title and mount a challenge in the Champions League.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-striker-karim-benzema-named-champions-league-player-of-the-season-483869">Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season</a>

Elliott took over the club in 2018 when Chinese businessman Li Yonghong failed to meet some obligations linked to a financing package for the purchase of the team from Berlusconi the year before.

Elliott said its continued involvement reflected its confidence in RedBird and added that the club leadership would remain in place.

Former Arsenal executive Ivan Gazidis is the club`s CEO while former player Paolo Maldini serves as technical director.&nbsp;

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again.

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again. Under the terms of the deal, current owners Elliott, the U.S. private equity group, will retain a minority investment and seats on the board, the club said on Wednesday. Milan have just won the Italian Serie A league title for the first time in 11 years. "We... are excited to play a role in the club`s next chapter as it returns to its rightful place at the very top of Italian, European and world football," RedBird founder and managing partner Gerry Cardinale said in a statement. RedBird is already an investor in Fenway Sports Group, the owner of Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox baseball team. RedBird also has a controlling stake in French soccer club Toulouse. "RedBird`s investment philosophy and track record in team ownership has shown that football clubs can be successful on the pitch and sustainable off it," Cardinale added. Also Read: 'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat Italian soccer clubs have recently become a popular target for overseas investors, attracted by cheaper valuations compared with those of England`s Premier League and rivals in major European leagues. Milan were a dominant force in European soccer under the previous ownership of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi but won the Champions League for the last time in 2007. The transition to new ownership will take place over the summer, with an expected closing of the deal no later than September, the club statement added. Milan, European Cup winners seven times, will be looking to strengthen their ranks during the close season to help defend their Italian league title and mount a challenge in the Champions League. Also Read: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season Elliott took over the club in 2018 when Chinese businessman Li Yonghong failed to meet some obligations linked to a financing package for the purchase of the team from Berlusconi the year before. Elliott said its continued involvement reflected its confidence in RedBird and added that the club leadership would remain in place. Former Arsenal executive Ivan Gazidis is the club`s CEO while former player Paolo Maldini serves as technical director.

US investmet firm RedBird buys Italian football club AC Milan in $1.3 billion deal

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A. Inter Milan had briefly climbed to the Serie A summit after their 3-1 success at Spezia earlier on Friday, putting pressure on their great rivals to respond as Milan look to win the Scudetto for the first time since 2011.

Without a goal in their previous two league games, Milan did not take long to get on the score sheet in the San Siro, with Pierre Kalulu picking out the perfect cross for Leao to volley home in the 11th minute.

But they again fell flat in the second half, struggling to find that killer second goal, with Genoa causing problems down the other end. Milan kept coming and finally made one count as Brazilian midfielder Messias hammered home three minutes from time to seal the win.

After securing their first win in three league matches, Milan moved onto 71 points from 33 matches, two clear of Inter who have a game in hand. Genoa remain 19th on 22 points, three points from the safety zone.

"The tension is felt, the pressure rises," Pioli told DAZN. "I told the guys that last year there was tension because we didn`t know whether we could finish in the top four.

"Now the pressure is there but it must lead to positive energies because we are fighting for a goal (the title) that when we started working together we could not have imagined.

"For many of us it is the first time fighting for the Scudetto but we want to be winning again and this experience will prove useful in the future as well."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sensational-eintracht-frankfurt-beat-fc-barcelona-3-2-to-reach-europa-league-last-four-471165">Sensational Eintracht Frankfurt beat FC Barcelona 3-2 to reach Europa League last four</a>

Goals had been hard to come by of late for Milan. Prior to successive 0-0 draws in their last two matches, Pioli`s side had only managed four strikes in their previous five games in all competitions.

Leao is one of several out-of-form strikers, but showed no lack of confidence when he fired his first goal since the end of February into the net.

The hosts should have had another later in the first half, but Belgian midfielder Alexis Saelemaekers missed his kick with the goal at his mercy.

Veteran striker Olivier Giroud saw one acrobatic second-half effort flash wide, but otherwise that final pass again was eluding Milan until the dying moments.

Substitute Ante Rebic turned provider for Messias, who converted from the rebound after his initial effort had been saved.

Defensively it was another successful night for Milan. Pioli is now only the third manager in the club`s history to keep a clean sheet in at least six games in a row in a single Serie A season.

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A.

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A. Inter Milan had briefly climbed to the Serie A summit after their 3-1 success at Spezia earlier on Friday, putting pressure on their great rivals to respond as Milan look to win the Scudetto for the first time since 2011. Without a goal in their previous two league games, Milan did not take long to get on the score sheet in the San Siro, with Pierre Kalulu picking out the perfect cross for Leao to volley home in the 11th minute. But they again fell flat in the second half, struggling to find that killer second goal, with Genoa causing problems down the other end. Milan kept coming and finally made one count as Brazilian midfielder Messias hammered home three minutes from time to seal the win. After securing their first win in three league matches, Milan moved onto 71 points from 33 matches, two clear of Inter who have a game in hand. Genoa remain 19th on 22 points, three points from the safety zone. "The tension is felt, the pressure rises," Pioli told DAZN. "I told the guys that last year there was tension because we didn`t know whether we could finish in the top four. "Now the pressure is there but it must lead to positive energies because we are fighting for a goal (the title) that when we started working together we could not have imagined. "For many of us it is the first time fighting for the Scudetto but we want to be winning again and this experience will prove useful in the future as well." Also Read: Sensational Eintracht Frankfurt beat FC Barcelona 3-2 to reach Europa League last four Goals had been hard to come by of late for Milan. Prior to successive 0-0 draws in their last two matches, Pioli`s side had only managed four strikes in their previous five games in all competitions. Leao is one of several out-of-form strikers, but showed no lack of confidence when he fired his first goal since the end of February into the net. The hosts should have had another later in the first half, but Belgian midfielder Alexis Saelemaekers missed his kick with the goal at his mercy. Veteran striker Olivier Giroud saw one acrobatic second-half effort flash wide, but otherwise that final pass again was eluding Milan until the dying moments. Substitute Ante Rebic turned provider for Messias, who converted from the rebound after his initial effort had been saved. Defensively it was another successful night for Milan. Pioli is now only the third manager in the club`s history to keep a clean sheet in at least six games in a row in a single Serie A season.

AC Milan return to top of Serie A with battling victory over Genoa

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