Atletico Madrid maintained their excellent run of home form on Saturday, beating Espanyol 1-0 for a seventh win out of nine games at their Wanda Metropolitano stadium to keep the pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Antoine Griezmann struck the only goal of the game early in the second half, sending visiting goalkeeper Diego Lopez the wrong way from the penalty spot after some confusion when Angel Correa had a goal ruled out as Koke had been fouled by Espanyol's Esteban Granero just before.

Espanyol were the only team to win in the league at the Wanda Metropolitano last season and again proved extremely tough opponents for Diego Simeone's side, who escaped going behind in the first half when Jan Oblak saved from Leo Baptistao and the Brazilian forward struck the post on the rebound.

Atletico's third consecutive league win took them into second place on 34 points, level with La Liga leaders Barcelona who were in action against Celta Vigo later on Saturday and three ahead of Sevilla, who visit Leganes on Sunday.

Atletico Madrid maintained their excellent run of home form on Saturday, beating Espanyol 1-0 for a seventh win out of nine games at their Wanda Metropolitano stadium to keep the pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Atletico Madrid maintained their excellent run of home form on Saturday, beating Espanyol 1-0 for a seventh win out of nine games at their Wanda Metropolitano stadium to keep the pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona. Antoine Griezmann struck the only goal of the game early in the second half, sending visiting goalkeeper Diego Lopez the wrong way from the penalty spot after some confusion when Angel Correa had a goal ruled out as Koke had been fouled by Espanyol's Esteban Granero just before. Espanyol were the only team to win in the league at the Wanda Metropolitano last season and again proved extremely tough opponents for Diego Simeone's side, who escaped going behind in the first half when Jan Oblak saved from Leo Baptistao and the Brazilian forward struck the post on the rebound. Atletico's third consecutive league win took them into second place on 34 points, level with La Liga leaders Barcelona who were in action against Celta Vigo later on Saturday and three ahead of Sevilla, who visit Leganes on Sunday.

Antoine Griezmann penalty gives Atletico Madrid win in tight game with Espanyol

Atletico Madrid dominated a toothless Borussia Dortmund to win 2-0 in their Champions League Group A match on Tuesday, exacting some revenge for last month's heavy loss in Germany and snapping their opponents' unbeaten run this season.

Saul Niguez fired the hosts ahead in the 33rd minute and Antoine Griezmann added another in the 80th in a one-sided match that ended Dortmund's unbeaten run in all competitions since the start of the season.

The Germans, who had close to 65 percent possession, did not manage a single shot on goal in the entire match and had a total of just two efforts off target.

"We really wanted to give them a game after they hammered us in Germany," World Cup winner Griezmann told reporters.

"We learned from our errors and delivered a much better image of ourselves tonight. We had important players injured but the team has respond."

The result lifted Atletico to nine points, level with leaders Dortmund, with two games left in the group stage.

Belgium's Club Bruges are third on four points after beating AS Monaco 4-0 earlier on Tuesday with the top two advancing to the knockout stage.

Dortmund, who face Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga on Saturday, found themselves on the backfoot from the start with Diego Simeone's team eager to make amends for their 4-0 demolition in Dortmund last month.

The injury-hit Spaniards, missing several regulars including captain Diego Godin and Koke, still packed a considerable punch, and Angel Correa tested keeper Roman Buerki early on.

With Dortmund opting to defend in numbers rather than attack, the breakthrough for Atletico came when Saul fired in to complete a swift move that had split open the German defence.

Dortmund, the last German team to win a Champions League game at Atletico in their title-winning 1996-97 season, were in disarray and Saul went close to a second goal in the 41st minute, firing narrowly wide.

Buerki rescued Dortmund twice more before the visitors were saved by the halftime whistle.

The Swiss then denied Correa again on the hour before Dortmund had a rare chance of their own with substitute Raphael Guerreiro's header.

Atletico captain Griezmann put the result beyond doubt when he broke free, charging into the box and slipping the ball past Buerki to seal victory on his 50th Champions League appearance.

"Atletico did it really well, waiting for us and we just lost the ball far too often and then it becomes really difficult against such a team," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said.

"Having so much possession, that is positive, but we have to do more with this. We were too static."

Atletico Madrid dominated a toothless Borussia Dortmund to win 2-0 in their Champions League Group A match on Tuesday, exacting some revenge for last month's heavy loss in Germany and snapping their opponents' unbeaten run this season.

Atletico Madrid dominated a toothless Borussia Dortmund to win 2-0 in their Champions League Group A match on Tuesday, exacting some revenge for last month's heavy loss in Germany and snapping their opponents' unbeaten run this season. Saul Niguez fired the hosts ahead in the 33rd minute and Antoine Griezmann added another in the 80th in a one-sided match that ended Dortmund's unbeaten run in all competitions since the start of the season. The Germans, who had close to 65 percent possession, did not manage a single shot on goal in the entire match and had a total of just two efforts off target. "We really wanted to give them a game after they hammered us in Germany," World Cup winner Griezmann told reporters. "We learned from our errors and delivered a much better image of ourselves tonight. We had important players injured but the team has respond." The result lifted Atletico to nine points, level with leaders Dortmund, with two games left in the group stage. Belgium's Club Bruges are third on four points after beating AS Monaco 4-0 earlier on Tuesday with the top two advancing to the knockout stage. Dortmund, who face Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga on Saturday, found themselves on the backfoot from the start with Diego Simeone's team eager to make amends for their 4-0 demolition in Dortmund last month. The injury-hit Spaniards, missing several regulars including captain Diego Godin and Koke, still packed a considerable punch, and Angel Correa tested keeper Roman Buerki early on. With Dortmund opting to defend in numbers rather than attack, the breakthrough for Atletico came when Saul fired in to complete a swift move that had split open the German defence. Dortmund, the last German team to win a Champions League game at Atletico in their title-winning 1996-97 season, were in disarray and Saul went close to a second goal in the 41st minute, firing narrowly wide. Buerki rescued Dortmund twice more before the visitors were saved by the halftime whistle. The Swiss then denied Correa again on the hour before Dortmund had a rare chance of their own with substitute Raphael Guerreiro's header. Atletico captain Griezmann put the result beyond doubt when he broke free, charging into the box and slipping the ball past Buerki to seal victory on his 50th Champions League appearance. "Atletico did it really well, waiting for us and we just lost the ball far too often and then it becomes really difficult against such a team," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said. "Having so much possession, that is positive, but we have to do more with this. We were too static."

Atletico snap Dortmund's unbeaten run with 2-0 win

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on.

France forward Antoine Griezmann had given Diego Simeone's side the lead with a sizzling free-kick in the 69th minute in a typically tight game at the Butarque stadium.

But Leganes hit back when striker Guido Carillo stabbed a loose ball over the line in the 82nd after full back Rodrigo Tarin's cross thumped off the underside of the bar.

Atletico have failed to win their three games at Leganes since the latter were promoted to the top flight for the first time in 2016, drawing their last two outings at Butarque 0-0.

Atleti are second with 20 points, one point behind champions Barcelona who visit Rayo Vallecano later on Saturday.

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on.

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on. France forward Antoine Griezmann had given Diego Simeone's side the lead with a sizzling free-kick in the 69th minute in a typically tight game at the Butarque stadium. But Leganes hit back when striker Guido Carillo stabbed a loose ball over the line in the 82nd after full back Rodrigo Tarin's cross thumped off the underside of the bar. Atletico have failed to win their three games at Leganes since the latter were promoted to the top flight for the first time in 2016, drawing their last two outings at Butarque 0-0. Atleti are second with 20 points, one point behind champions Barcelona who visit Rayo Vallecano later on Saturday.

Atletico blow chance to top La Liga after draw at Leganes

World champions France fought back from a goal down to edge Germany 2-1 with a double from Antoine Griezmann in their Nations Cup match at the Stade de France on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old forward cancelled out Toni Kroos' first-half penalty with a fine header just past the hour and then scored with a spot-kick himself late in the game to kill off the visitors' hopes of reaching the semi-finals.

The French found themselves on the backfoot in the first half but did not lose confidence even when the Germans came close to a second goal.

"This is the difference between a team with a lot of confidence and a team like Germany which lacks some confidence and is maybe not as efficient," France coach Didier Deschamps told reporters.

"There is nothing better for my team, my players, than this. The best vitamin is victory and tonight we had a difficult game and won against a difficult team."

France top the League A Group 1 standings with seven points from three games above the Netherlands on three from two and Germany with one.

The Germans, with five changes to the team that lost 3-0 away to the Netherlands on Saturday, had their share of chances and overall looked sharper despite their sixth defeat of 2018.

Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry added much-needed speed to Germany's game and the overall performance offered coach Joachim Loew some respite after recent setbacks.

"We should not be disappointed tonight after such a performance," said Loew, who has been under pressure since his side's World Cup flop in June.

"We were on the same level with the world champions and we should have scored a second goal in the first half. But the French have a lot of quality and scored two goals from just a handful of chances."

After crashing out at the group stage in the World Cup in Russia, Germany, world champions in 2014, are still looking for their first victory in UEFA's the Nations League competition.

World champions France fought back from a goal down to edge Germany 2-1 with a double from Antoine Griezmann in their Nations Cup match at the Stade de France on Tuesday.

World champions France fought back from a goal down to edge Germany 2-1 with a double from Antoine Griezmann in their Nations Cup match at the Stade de France on Tuesday. The 27-year-old forward cancelled out Toni Kroos' first-half penalty with a fine header just past the hour and then scored with a spot-kick himself late in the game to kill off the visitors' hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The French found themselves on the backfoot in the first half but did not lose confidence even when the Germans came close to a second goal. "This is the difference between a team with a lot of confidence and a team like Germany which lacks some confidence and is maybe not as efficient," France coach Didier Deschamps told reporters. "There is nothing better for my team, my players, than this. The best vitamin is victory and tonight we had a difficult game and won against a difficult team." France top the League A Group 1 standings with seven points from three games above the Netherlands on three from two and Germany with one. The Germans, with five changes to the team that lost 3-0 away to the Netherlands on Saturday, had their share of chances and overall looked sharper despite their sixth defeat of 2018. Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry added much-needed speed to Germany's game and the overall performance offered coach Joachim Loew some respite after recent setbacks. "We should not be disappointed tonight after such a performance," said Loew, who has been under pressure since his side's World Cup flop in June. "We were on the same level with the world champions and we should have scored a second goal in the first half. But the French have a lot of quality and scored two goals from just a handful of chances." After crashing out at the group stage in the World Cup in Russia, Germany, world champions in 2014, are still looking for their first victory in UEFA's the Nations League competition.

UEFA Nations League: Griezmann double gives France comeback win over Germany

Europa League winners Atletico Madrid have been charged with "racist behaviour" by UEFA for a banner displayed by fans during their 3-0 win over Olympique de Marseille in the final on Wednesday.

European soccer's governing body said in a statement on Thursday that it had opened proceedings against the Spanish side under Article 14 of its disciplinary regulations.

Marseille and Atletico also face punishment for setting off fireworks during the match.

The French team's famously passionate fans unleashed a whirlwind of flares and firecrackers moments before kickoff and the game began under a thick cloud of smoke.

Atletico set off a small number of flares in their end after each of Antoine Griezmann's two goals while the French supporters engulfed the air with another display of flares, some of which were thrown onto the pitch, near the end of the game.

Marseille fans also caused "acts of damage" at the Groupama Stadium, the home of rivals Olympique Lyonnais and the French club were charged by UEFA after their players returned late to start the second half.

UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will deal with the case on May 31.

Marseille and Atletico also face punishment for setting off fireworks during the match

Europa League winners Atletico Madrid have been charged with "racist behaviour" by UEFA for a banner displayed by fans during their 3-0 win over Olympique de Marseille in the final on Wednesday. European soccer's governing body said in a statement on Thursday that it had opened proceedings against the Spanish side under Article 14 of its disciplinary regulations. Marseille and Atletico also face punishment for setting off fireworks during the match. The French team's famously passionate fans unleashed a whirlwind of flares and firecrackers moments before kickoff and the game began under a thick cloud of smoke. Atletico set off a small number of flares in their end after each of Antoine Griezmann's two goals while the French supporters engulfed the air with another display of flares, some of which were thrown onto the pitch, near the end of the game. Marseille fans also caused "acts of damage" at the Groupama Stadium, the home of rivals Olympique Lyonnais and the French club were charged by UEFA after their players returned late to start the second half. UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body will deal with the case on May 31.

Atletico charged by UEFA over 'racist behaviour'

Antoine Griezmann, a talismanic figure at Atletico Madrid, will not enjoy the same status at Barcelona if he joins the Liga champions in the close-season, Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin has said.

Griezmann stole the headlines by scoring twice as Atletico beat Olympique de Marseille 3-0 in the Europa League final on Wednesday, although his decisive display could be one of his last acts for the club.

Barca can capture the France international for 100 million euros ($118 million) when his buy-out clause is cut in half on July 1.

Gil Marin, however, told him to consider the fact that he would be seen as just another player in Ernesto Valverde's side, where he would line up alongside fellow attackers Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

"He needs to decide if he wants to make history at Atletico where everything is built around him or go to a club where he will never go down in history," Gil Marin told reporters.

"A few days ago I spoke to his sister and agent to make them an offer and they will have to give us an answer in a few days. I don't know what will happen, it's not something he can decide in the heat of the moment after winning the final."

Griezmann's starring role in the final was hailed by Madrid newspaper AS, who headlined their edition on Thursday "Super Griezmann, Super Atletico".

The Frenchman was also lauded by Barcelona-based dailies Mundo Deportivo and Sport, who described him as "colossal" and "magical", rubbing their hands at the prospect of him moving to Barca.

The striker said he would not discuss his future after the final, but added that he had grown ever more fond of Atletico and his teammates in the four years since he joined from Real Sociedad for 25 million euros.

Griezmann was substituted in stoppage time to allow Atletico's long-serving, departing forward Fernando Torres to come on for the final minutes and win his first major trophy for the club.

Spanish media reported Griezmann had volunteered to go off in order to give Torres the chance to play.

Atletico defender Juanfran said the departing veteran striker had warned Griezmann to give careful consideration to his next move.

"In the dressing room Torres said to Griezmann that first of all, he should enjoy the night," Juanfran said. "And then in a couple of days, he should think long and hard about what he does next."

Griezmann stole the headlines by scoring twice as Atletico beat Olympique de Marseille 3-0 in the Europa League final on Wednesday

Antoine Griezmann, a talismanic figure at Atletico Madrid, will not enjoy the same status at Barcelona if he joins the Liga champions in the close-season, Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin has said. Griezmann stole the headlines by scoring twice as Atletico beat Olympique de Marseille 3-0 in the Europa League final on Wednesday, although his decisive display could be one of his last acts for the club. Barca can capture the France international for 100 million euros ($118 million) when his buy-out clause is cut in half on July 1. Gil Marin, however, told him to consider the fact that he would be seen as just another player in Ernesto Valverde's side, where he would line up alongside fellow attackers Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. "He needs to decide if he wants to make history at Atletico where everything is built around him or go to a club where he will never go down in history," Gil Marin told reporters. "A few days ago I spoke to his sister and agent to make them an offer and they will have to give us an answer in a few days. I don't know what will happen, it's not something he can decide in the heat of the moment after winning the final." Griezmann's starring role in the final was hailed by Madrid newspaper AS, who headlined their edition on Thursday "Super Griezmann, Super Atletico". The Frenchman was also lauded by Barcelona-based dailies Mundo Deportivo and Sport, who described him as "colossal" and "magical", rubbing their hands at the prospect of him moving to Barca. The striker said he would not discuss his future after the final, but added that he had grown ever more fond of Atletico and his teammates in the four years since he joined from Real Sociedad for 25 million euros. Griezmann was substituted in stoppage time to allow Atletico's long-serving, departing forward Fernando Torres to come on for the final minutes and win his first major trophy for the club. Spanish media reported Griezmann had volunteered to go off in order to give Torres the chance to play. Atletico defender Juanfran said the departing veteran striker had warned Griezmann to give careful consideration to his next move. "In the dressing room Torres said to Griezmann that first of all, he should enjoy the night," Juanfran said. "And then in a couple of days, he should think long and hard about what he does next."

Griezmann warned he will 'never go down in history' at Barcelona

Cristiano Ronaldo's 24th goal in 15 games for Real Madrid this year was not enough to earn his side a derby victory on Sunday as an Antoine Griezmann equaliser secured Atletico a 1-1 draw.&nbsp

Ronaldo followed up last week's brilliant bicycle kick against Juventus with a poacher's finish at the Santiago Bernabeu but Griezmann's strike keeps Atletico in pole position to finish second in La Liga.&nbsp

They retain their four-point cushion over Real while this was perhaps the perfect result for leaders Barcelona, who are now 11 points clear at the top.&nbsp

It not only tightens Barca's grip on the title but will likely bring forward the point when the Catalans are mathematically certain to be champions, with the 'clasico' still a possible coronation day on May 6.&nbsp

"We deserved more today clearly, it's a shame," Real coach Zinedine Zidane said afterwards. "We had many chances, but in the end we could have lost the game as well."

Griezmann's goal came on his 200th appearance for Atleti while Ronaldo's was the 500th in the 161 league matches played between these two city rivals.&nbsp

On Griezmann, Atletico coach Diego Simeone said: "He is a great player, he did not have a good start to the season and he knows it and it is not easy to reinvent himself in the way he did in November, December.&nbsp

"I think the presence of (Diego) Costa has helped him a lot, having strength around him which allows him to be free."

In comparison to recent versions of this fixture, which have included Champions League finals, Cope del Rey finals and league games with both sides vying for the championship, this at times had a rather low-key feel.&nbsp

Zidane, with one eye on the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Juventus on Wednesday, started with Luka Modric and Karim Benzema on the bench, the latter coming on to spare Ronaldo the final half an hour.&nbsp

Los Blancos own a 3-0 advantage over Juve but Zidane insists they cannot afford to be complacent.

"Everyone sees us going through to the semi-finals and that's exactly what we should not put in our head," Zidane said. "We know very well that we will have to suffer again on Wednesday."

Bale quiet

Gareth Bale was given 90 minutes, perhaps not the most positive indicator for his chances of a start in midweek. The Welshman supplied the cross for Ronaldo's equaliser but, in truth, he was quiet for long periods here, a pale shadow of his confident, marauding best.&nbsp

A game that looked in danger of drifting towards a stalemate sparked into life after half-time with two goals in four minutes.&nbsp

Ronaldo scored the first as Bale's hanging cross was misjudged by Lucas Hernandez at the back post, allowing the striker to volley in his 23rd league goal of the season.&nbsp

But Atleti were soon level. Griezmann slipped in Lucas and then continued his run so he was perfectly placed to slide home the rebound after Keylor Navas had parried.&nbsp

Real were more aggressive in the search for a late winner but Atleti dug in. Bale almost had it but put a difficult header wide, while Sergio Ramos nodded past from a corner and saw his curling free-kick tipped over by Jan Oblak. If only Ronaldo had still been on the field to take it.

&nbsp

Cristiano Ronaldo's 24th goal in 15 games for Real Madrid this year was not enough to earn his side a derby victory on Sunday as an Antoine Griezmann equaliser secured Atletico a 1-1 draw

Cristiano Ronaldo's 24th goal in 15 games for Real Madrid this year was not enough to earn his side a derby victory on Sunday as an Antoine Griezmann equaliser secured Atletico a 1-1 draw. Ronaldo followed up last week's brilliant bicycle kick against Juventus with a poacher's finish at the Santiago Bernabeu but Griezmann's strike keeps Atletico in pole position to finish second in La Liga. They retain their four-point cushion over Real while this was perhaps the perfect result for leaders Barcelona, who are now 11 points clear at the top. It not only tightens Barca's grip on the title but will likely bring forward the point when the Catalans are mathematically certain to be champions, with the 'clasico' still a possible coronation day on May 6. "We deserved more today clearly, it's a shame," Real coach Zinedine Zidane said afterwards. "We had many chances, but in the end we could have lost the game as well." Griezmann's goal came on his 200th appearance for Atleti while Ronaldo's was the 500th in the 161 league matches played between these two city rivals. On Griezmann, Atletico coach Diego Simeone said: "He is a great player, he did not have a good start to the season and he knows it and it is not easy to reinvent himself in the way he did in November, December. "I think the presence of (Diego) Costa has helped him a lot, having strength around him which allows him to be free." In comparison to recent versions of this fixture, which have included Champions League finals, Cope del Rey finals and league games with both sides vying for the championship, this at times had a rather low-key feel. Zidane, with one eye on the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Juventus on Wednesday, started with Luka Modric and Karim Benzema on the bench, the latter coming on to spare Ronaldo the final half an hour. Los Blancos own a 3-0 advantage over Juve but Zidane insists they cannot afford to be complacent. "Everyone sees us going through to the semi-finals and that's exactly what we should not put in our head," Zidane said. "We know very well that we will have to suffer again on Wednesday." Bale quiet Gareth Bale was given 90 minutes, perhaps not the most positive indicator for his chances of a start in midweek. The Welshman supplied the cross for Ronaldo's equaliser but, in truth, he was quiet for long periods here, a pale shadow of his confident, marauding best. A game that looked in danger of drifting towards a stalemate sparked into life after half-time with two goals in four minutes. Ronaldo scored the first as Bale's hanging cross was misjudged by Lucas Hernandez at the back post, allowing the striker to volley in his 23rd league goal of the season. But Atleti were soon level. Griezmann slipped in Lucas and then continued his run so he was perfectly placed to slide home the rebound after Keylor Navas had parried. Real were more aggressive in the search for a late winner but Atleti dug in. Bale almost had it but put a difficult header wide, while Sergio Ramos nodded past from a corner and saw his curling free-kick tipped over by Jan Oblak. If only Ronaldo had still been on the field to take it.

LaLiga: Cristiano Ronaldo continues goal spree but Real held by stubborn Atletico

French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points.

&quot;I&#39;m very happy with the team&#39;s work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals,&quot; said Griezmann.

&quot;It&#39;s good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points.&quot;

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HIGHLIGHTS ???? 
Did you miss our &lsquo;partidazo&rsquo; in Seville? ⚽????&nbsp;Check out the best plays and <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/diegocosta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@diegocosta</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Koke6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Koke6</a>&rsquo;s goals ????⚪???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967891901864177664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence.

Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area.

However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity.&nbsp;

Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save.

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⏱ 92&#39; | 2-5 | There&#39;s the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jh3dG3SJR5">pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5</a>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967875579960856576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico.

Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team&#39;s first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico.

Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season.&nbsp;

The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.

&nbsp;

Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence

French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points. "I'm very happy with the team's work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals," said Griezmann. "It's good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points." HIGHLIGHTS ???? Did you miss our ‘partidazo’ in Seville? ⚽???? Check out the best plays and @AntoGriezmann, @diegocosta and @Koke6’s goals ????⚪???????? #AúpaAtleti #SevillaFCAtleti — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence. Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area. However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity. Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save. ⏱ 92' | 2-5 | There's the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????#SevillaFCAtleti #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5 — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico. Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team's first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico. Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season. The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.

Griezmann's hat-trick helps Atletico to cut gap on Barcelona

Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann have reached an agreement for the France striker to switch from Atletico Madrid to the Catalan giants at the end of the season, Spanish daily Sport reported on Saturday.

&quot;The Atletico Madrid forward has agreed to join Barcelona and will be under (coach) Ernesto Valverde&#39;s orders next season,&quot; Sport said.

The Catalan daily also points out that while Griezmann currently has a buyout clause of 200 million euros ($240 million), that figure drops by half on July 1.

Barcelona have been scrambling to add high-quality players to their squad since Paris Saint Germain lured Brazilian star Neymar to France in a world record signing in August.

Philippe Coutinho joined from Liverpool this month in 180-million-euro ($220 million) deal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ernesto-valverde-philippe-coutinho-a-good-fit-for-barcelona-28990" target="_blank">Barcelona coach: Coutinho good fit for team but will be challenge to find position for him</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/camp-nou-and-fans-welcome-coutinho-28899" target="_blank">Camp Nou, fans welcome Coutinho</a>

The newspaper says it believes Griezmann&#39;s transfer would take place after this summer&#39;s World Cup in Russia, where he will have a key role for France, who are among the favourites.

Another Catalan daily, Mundo Deportivo, reported in December that the player&#39;s family had lunch with the Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu to smooth the way for the transfer.

Brazilian born Spain strker Diego Costa joined Atletico from Chelsea in September, and has proved to be the club&#39;s star performer since his debut two weeks ago.

Barcelona, whose star performers Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta are all in their thirties, signed Ousmane Dembele from Borussia Dormund for 105 million euros last summer, but the French 20-year-old has only just returned from a hamstring injury.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Barcelona have been scrambling to add high-quality players to their squad since Paris Saint Germain lured Brazilian star Neymar Jr to France

Barcelona and Antoine Griezmann have reached an agreement for the France striker to switch from Atletico Madrid to the Catalan giants at the end of the season, Spanish daily Sport reported on Saturday. "The Atletico Madrid forward has agreed to join Barcelona and will be under (coach) Ernesto Valverde's orders next season," Sport said. The Catalan daily also points out that while Griezmann currently has a buyout clause of 200 million euros ($240 million), that figure drops by half on July 1. Barcelona have been scrambling to add high-quality players to their squad since Paris Saint Germain lured Brazilian star Neymar to France in a world record signing in August. Philippe Coutinho joined from Liverpool this month in 180-million-euro ($220 million) deal. Barcelona coach: Coutinho good fit for team but will be challenge to find position for him Camp Nou, fans welcome Coutinho The newspaper says it believes Griezmann's transfer would take place after this summer's World Cup in Russia, where he will have a key role for France, who are among the favourites. Another Catalan daily, Mundo Deportivo, reported in December that the player's family had lunch with the Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu to smooth the way for the transfer. Brazilian born Spain strker Diego Costa joined Atletico from Chelsea in September, and has proved to be the club's star performer since his debut two weeks ago. Barcelona, whose star performers Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Andres Iniesta are all in their thirties, signed Ousmane Dembele from Borussia Dormund for 105 million euros last summer, but the French 20-year-old has only just returned from a hamstring injury.

Antoine Griezmann might join FC Barcelona after World Cup

Atletico&nbsp;Madrid has reported Barcelona to FIFA for an &quot;illegal&quot;&nbsp;transfer approach for Antoine Griezmann.

The French forward has been linked with the Catalan club in the Spanish media and Barcelona director Guillermo Amor told Movistar on Sunday that president Josep Maria Bartomeu may have made contact with Griezmann&#39;s family, who are also his representatives, over a potential move.

Earlier this year, Griezmann&nbsp;signed a new contract&nbsp;committing him to Atletico until the end of the 2021-22 season.

&quot;Atletico&nbsp;Madrid has presented a complaint about Barcelona for repeated contact between Barcelona, the player and his people,&quot;&nbsp;Atletico&nbsp;told Reuters.

&quot;Griezmann has a long contract and this cannot be permitted, while the club also considers it could affect the competition [La Liga] in which Barcelona are currently top and&nbsp;Atletico&nbsp;are second.&quot;

Barcelona haven&#39;t&nbsp;respond so far. In 2014, Barcelona suffered&nbsp;one-year transfer ban for signing under-age players by world football governing body FIFA.

A Fifa spokesman said, &quot;We can confirm that we have received a complaint from Atletico Madrid.&quot;

Griezmann, 26, signed a new&nbsp;Atletico&nbsp;contract in June until 2022, which has a 100 million euro ($118.2 million) release clause.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Atletico Madrid reports to FIFA over Barcelona's alleged illegal approach for Atletico's star player, Antoine Griezmann

Atletico Madrid has reported Barcelona to FIFA for an "illegal" transfer approach for Antoine Griezmann. The French forward has been linked with the Catalan club in the Spanish media and Barcelona director Guillermo Amor told Movistar on Sunday that president Josep Maria Bartomeu may have made contact with Griezmann's family, who are also his representatives, over a potential move. Earlier this year, Griezmann signed a new contract committing him to Atletico until the end of the 2021-22 season. "Atletico Madrid has presented a complaint about Barcelona for repeated contact between Barcelona, the player and his people," Atletico told Reuters. "Griezmann has a long contract and this cannot be permitted, while the club also considers it could affect the competition [La Liga] in which Barcelona are currently top and Atletico are second." Barcelona haven't respond so far. In 2014, Barcelona suffered one-year transfer ban for signing under-age players by world football governing body FIFA. A Fifa spokesman said, "We can confirm that we have received a complaint from Atletico Madrid." Griezmann, 26, signed a new Atletico contract in June until 2022, which has a 100 million euro ($118.2 million) release clause. (With inputs from Reuters)

Barcelona made 'illegal' approach for Antoine Griezmann: Atletico?Madrid to FIFA

Atletico Madrid beat hosts Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in a topsy-turvy encounter on Tuesday to take a firm handle on their Champions League round-of-16 tie ahead of the return leg in Spain next month.

Two lethal counter-attacks in the opening 25 minutes put the 2014 and 2016 finalists in the driving seat, with Saul Niguez and Antoine Griezmann on target, and gave them the edge for a quarter-final spot for the ninth time.

&quot;We knew it was going to be a tough game. We wanted to win, we did that and the return leg will be as difficult as tonight was,&quot; said Griezmann.

&quot;They pressured us and made life difficult but the boss&#39;s changes helped us win the game tonight. We have a big game to play now in front of our own fans.&quot;

Leverkusen, who paid the price for a disastrous defensive performance, cut the deficit before Atletico&#39;s Kevin Gameiro scored with a spot kick and Stefan Savic&#39;s own goal set up a nervous finale.

Substitute Fernando Torres ended any speculation with his goal in the 86th minute to take revenge for last season&#39;s 1-0 loss as the Germans suffered their first home defeat in Europe after a 10-match unbeaten run.

&quot;It is easy to see how Atletico have reached two finals in three years,&quot; said Leverkusen coach Roger Schmidt. &quot;We knew of their counter-attacking abilities before the game but we ended up shipping two goals in the first half.&quot;

The Bundesliga club, finalists in 2002 before the introduction of the round of 16, are now at risk of missing out on the last eight for the fifth time, having never gone past this stage on their four previous attempts.

They were supposed to be dangerous on the break but it was Atletico who came close early on with keeper Bernd Leno stopping a Griezmann effort and Wendell seeing his subsequent clearance bounce off his keeper&#39;s crossbar.

Niguez did better in the 17th minute, charging down the right and curling his shot past Leno after it took a slight deflection off Aleksandar Dragovic.

Griezmann then doubled the score after the hapless Dragovic fluffed his clearance and sent the ball into the path of Gameiro who picked out the onrushing Frenchman.

Leverkusen played completely into Atletico&#39;s hands with their high defensive line, for the first time in this season&#39;s competition conceding goals in the opening 30 minutes.

Griezmann should have added another in the 34th when Gameiro again sent him through but Leno stood his ground and the hosts cut the deficit three minutes after the restart with Karim Bellarabi from inside the box.

But their hopes were short-lived as Dragovic capped his nightmarish performance by giving away a penalty after bringing down Gameiro.

Savic&#39;s own goal put Leverkusen back in the game but despite constant pressure they failed to carve out an equaliser before Torres finished them off.&nbsp;

(Reuters)

Two lethal counter-attacks in the opening 25 minutes put the 2014 and 2016 finalists in the driving seat

Atletico Madrid beat hosts Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in a topsy-turvy encounter on Tuesday to take a firm handle on their Champions League round-of-16 tie ahead of the return leg in Spain next month. Two lethal counter-attacks in the opening 25 minutes put the 2014 and 2016 finalists in the driving seat, with Saul Niguez and Antoine Griezmann on target, and gave them the edge for a quarter-final spot for the ninth time. "We knew it was going to be a tough game. We wanted to win, we did that and the return leg will be as difficult as tonight was," said Griezmann. "They pressured us and made life difficult but the boss's changes helped us win the game tonight. We have a big game to play now in front of our own fans." Leverkusen, who paid the price for a disastrous defensive performance, cut the deficit before Atletico's Kevin Gameiro scored with a spot kick and Stefan Savic's own goal set up a nervous finale. Substitute Fernando Torres ended any speculation with his goal in the 86th minute to take revenge for last season's 1-0 loss as the Germans suffered their first home defeat in Europe after a 10-match unbeaten run. "It is easy to see how Atletico have reached two finals in three years," said Leverkusen coach Roger Schmidt. "We knew of their counter-attacking abilities before the game but we ended up shipping two goals in the first half." The Bundesliga club, finalists in 2002 before the introduction of the round of 16, are now at risk of missing out on the last eight for the fifth time, having never gone past this stage on their four previous attempts. They were supposed to be dangerous on the break but it was Atletico who came close early on with keeper Bernd Leno stopping a Griezmann effort and Wendell seeing his subsequent clearance bounce off his keeper's crossbar. Niguez did better in the 17th minute, charging down the right and curling his shot past Leno after it took a slight deflection off Aleksandar Dragovic. Griezmann then doubled the score after the hapless Dragovic fluffed his clearance and sent the ball into the path of Gameiro who picked out the onrushing Frenchman. Leverkusen played completely into Atletico's hands with their high defensive line, for the first time in this season's competition conceding goals in the opening 30 minutes. Griezmann should have added another in the 34th when Gameiro again sent him through but Leno stood his ground and the hosts cut the deficit three minutes after the restart with Karim Bellarabi from inside the box. But their hopes were short-lived as Dragovic capped his nightmarish performance by giving away a penalty after bringing down Gameiro. Savic's own goal put Leverkusen back in the game but despite constant pressure they failed to carve out an equaliser before Torres finished them off. (Reuters)

Champions League: Atletico close in on last eight with 4-2 Leverkusen win

Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann was named La Liga player of the season for 2015-16 on Monday, ahead of the likes of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Real Madrid&#39;s talisman Cristiano Ronaldo.

Atletico gaffer&nbsp;Diego Simeone also took the coach of the season award while Barcelona&#39;s Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was named the top non-EU player.

Messi was recognised as the best forward at the award ceremony in Valencia.

Atletico dominated the awards as Jan Oblak was best goalkeeper, Diego Godin top defender and Frenchman Griezmann also claimed the fans&#39; award.

Real Madrid weren&#39;t left empty-handed, though, as Luka Modric was named best midfielder.

The winners&#39; names were announced in a ceremony organised by the La Liga in Valencia.

(WION with inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone took the coach of the season award while Barcelona's Luis Suarez was named the top non-EU player

Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann was named La Liga player of the season for 2015-16 on Monday, ahead of the likes of Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Real Madrid's talisman Cristiano Ronaldo. Atletico gaffer Diego Simeone also took the coach of the season award while Barcelona's Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was named the top non-EU player. Messi was recognised as the best forward at the award ceremony in Valencia. Atletico dominated the awards as Jan Oblak was best goalkeeper, Diego Godin top defender and Frenchman Griezmann also claimed the fans' award. Real Madrid weren't left empty-handed, though, as Luka Modric was named best midfielder. The winners' names were announced in a ceremony organised by the La Liga in Valencia. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Griezmann beats Messi and Ronaldo to win La Liga award

Didier Deschamps talented France block the path of Germany&#39;s spluttering juggernaut in Thursday&#39;s Euro 2016 semi-final and the world champions have mounting personnel problems. 
 
With an element of revenge in the air, France can expect near-fanatical support from home fans in Marseille as they seek a place in Sunday&#39;s Paris final. 
 
The hosts are buoyed by a 5-2 quarter-final thumping of plucky minnows Iceland when Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann and Dimitri Payet all netted at the Stade de France. 
 
Germany are also confident mood, despite missing key players with injury and suspension after their penalty shoot-out win over Italy in the last eight. 
 
France are unbeaten in their last nine games, while Germany have not lost in their last six. 
 
&quot;For us, there is no fear. We know that France are loaded with good individual players, but they are under pressure as hosts,&quot; said Germany forward Thomas Mueller. 
 
&quot;Iceland didn`t look so happy with the goals they conceded. 
 
&quot;They have our respect, but I am optimistic that we will find solutions (to the injury problems).&nbsp;For us there is no loss of quality.&quot; 
 
Germany&#39;s tense penalty shoot-out win in Bordeaux came at a high price. 
 
Centre-back Mats Hummels picked up a yellow card which sees him suspended in Marseille. 
 
Striker Mario Gomez and midfielder Sami Khedira picked up thigh and groin injuries respectively which rule them out of the semi-final. 
 
To compound their problems, Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger is highly doubtful with a knee strain. 
 
Germany coach Joachim Loew is set to resort to a 4-2-3-1 formation having used a 3-5-2 against Italy. 
 
With Gomez out, World Cup-winner Mario Goetze is set to start up front, but Loew said he may play his Bayern Munich team-mate Thomas Mueller alongside him in attack. 
 
Gomez&#39;s thigh tear means he will also miss the final, should Germany progress. 
 
With Hummels suspended, Shkodran Mustafi or Benedikt Hoewedes will partner Jerome Boateng at centre-back with Joshua Kimmich at right-back and Jonas Hector on the left. 
 
Loew has said he expects to introduce a new face into the midfield with Liverpool`s Emre Can or Julian Weigl of Borussia Dortmund set to partner Toni Kroos in the defensive midfield. 
 
France striker Giroud has scored against Manuel Neuer in each of the last three games for France and Arsenal, a threat the Germans must counter.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;He is a very dangerous poacher inside the box,&quot; said Neuer. 
 
&quot;He is strong in the air, he is dangerous for central defenders. 
 
&quot;But we know him and can prepare for him and they have a lot of other quality players.&quot; 
 
For France, defender Adil Rami and midfielder N`Golo Kante are back in contention after missing the win over Iceland through suspension. 
 
The French camp is full of praise for the world champions, but the message is clear. 
 
&quot;We&#39;d like to write another chapter in French football history,&quot; said Giroud while French sports daily L`Equipe ran the front-page headline `Thirsty for Revenge` on Tuesday. 
 
Just as it was for the Germans against Italy, the semi-final is a fixture steeped in history. 
 
Les Bleus lost to Germany in the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals at Rio de Janeiro&#39;s Maracana, thanks to Hummels` first-half header. 
 
And France has never fully forgiven Germany for their penalty shoot-out defeat in a bitterly contested World Cup semi-final in Spain in 1982. 
 
An epic 3-3 draw, with four goals scored in extra-time, came down to a penalty shoot-out which Germany won 5-4, but the match in Seville is remembered for a brutal incident. 
 
France&#39;s Patrick Battiston was knocked unconscious, with two teeth missing and three cracked ribs, after a collision with the German goalkeeper Harald Schumacher. 
 
However, the German camp has been eager to play down the historical significance to focus on the here and now. 
 
&quot;The chance to win two titles back-to-back is not something you get everyday. We`re looking forward to it,&quot; said Mueller as Germany look to add the European crown to their world title. 
 
(AFP)

France has never fully forgiven Germany for their penalty shoot-out defeat in a bitterly contested World Cup semi-final in Spain in 1982

Didier Deschamps talented France block the path of Germany's spluttering juggernaut in Thursday's Euro 2016 semi-final and the world champions have mounting personnel problems. With an element of revenge in the air, France can expect near-fanatical support from home fans in Marseille as they seek a place in Sunday's Paris final. The hosts are buoyed by a 5-2 quarter-final thumping of plucky minnows Iceland when Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann and Dimitri Payet all netted at the Stade de France. Germany are also confident mood, despite missing key players with injury and suspension after their penalty shoot-out win over Italy in the last eight. France are unbeaten in their last nine games, while Germany have not lost in their last six. "For us, there is no fear. We know that France are loaded with good individual players, but they are under pressure as hosts," said Germany forward Thomas Mueller. "Iceland didn`t look so happy with the goals they conceded. "They have our respect, but I am optimistic that we will find solutions (to the injury problems). For us there is no loss of quality." Germany's tense penalty shoot-out win in Bordeaux came at a high price. Centre-back Mats Hummels picked up a yellow card which sees him suspended in Marseille. Striker Mario Gomez and midfielder Sami Khedira picked up thigh and groin injuries respectively which rule them out of the semi-final. To compound their problems, Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger is highly doubtful with a knee strain. Germany coach Joachim Loew is set to resort to a 4-2-3-1 formation having used a 3-5-2 against Italy. With Gomez out, World Cup-winner Mario Goetze is set to start up front, but Loew said he may play his Bayern Munich team-mate Thomas Mueller alongside him in attack. Gomez's thigh tear means he will also miss the final, should Germany progress. With Hummels suspended, Shkodran Mustafi or Benedikt Hoewedes will partner Jerome Boateng at centre-back with Joshua Kimmich at right-back and Jonas Hector on the left. Loew has said he expects to introduce a new face into the midfield with Liverpool`s Emre Can or Julian Weigl of Borussia Dortmund set to partner Toni Kroos in the defensive midfield. France striker Giroud has scored against Manuel Neuer in each of the last three games for France and Arsenal, a threat the Germans must counter. "He is a very dangerous poacher inside the box," said Neuer. "He is strong in the air, he is dangerous for central defenders. "But we know him and can prepare for him and they have a lot of other quality players." For France, defender Adil Rami and midfielder N`Golo Kante are back in contention after missing the win over Iceland through suspension. The French camp is full of praise for the world champions, but the message is clear. "We'd like to write another chapter in French football history," said Giroud while French sports daily L`Equipe ran the front-page headline `Thirsty for Revenge` on Tuesday. Just as it was for the Germans against Italy, the semi-final is a fixture steeped in history. Les Bleus lost to Germany in the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana, thanks to Hummels` first-half header. And France has never fully forgiven Germany for their penalty shoot-out defeat in a bitterly contested World Cup semi-final in Spain in 1982. An epic 3-3 draw, with four goals scored in extra-time, came down to a penalty shoot-out which Germany won 5-4, but the match in Seville is remembered for a brutal incident. France's Patrick Battiston was knocked unconscious, with two teeth missing and three cracked ribs, after a collision with the German goalkeeper Harald Schumacher. However, the German camp has been eager to play down the historical significance to focus on the here and now. "The chance to win two titles back-to-back is not something you get everyday. We`re looking forward to it," said Mueller as Germany look to add the European crown to their world title. (AFP)

France take on Germany, thirsting for revenge

A 90th-minute header by substitute striker Antoine Griezmann and a stoppage-time special by Dimitri Payet secured France a heartstopping 2-0 win over Albania on Wednesday that sent the hosts through as the first team into the last 16 of Euro 2016. 
 
France had struggled to make any impression on a determined Albanian defence and as the clock ticked into the last minute neither team had managed a single shot on target, though both had hit a post. 
 
France had needed an 89th-minute Payet goal to beat Romania in their first game. Against Albania, it came even later when centre back Adil Rami swung in a hopeful cross that Griezmann guided home expertly. 
 
The 67,000 Stade Velodrome crowd, minus 20,000 stunned Albanians, erupted in jubilation, which was repeated five minutes later when Payet cut inside to smash in the second. 
 
With six points France are guaranteed to finish in the top two of Group A, with Switzerland, who are on four points after drawing with Romania earlier, favourites to join them in the knockout phase. 
 
Once the euphoria of the moment had elapsed, Payet was able to take a broad view. &quot;It would be good if we could avoid that type of crazy scenario,&quot; he said after picking up his second successive man of the match award. &quot;What we have to do is start matches the way we started the second half. With Paul (Pogba) and Griezou (Griezmann) coming on and a different system, it worked a lot better.&quot; 
 
It needed to. 
 
France were hesitant and risk-averse in a forgettable first half as the ploy of using the speed of Kingsley Coman and Anthony Martial out wide failed to pay dividends. 
 
Albania, desperate to make their mark in their first major tournament defended with gusto and almost went ahead early in the second half when French full back Bacary Sagna bundled the ball against his own post. 
 
With the halftime introduction of Pogba, and then Griezmann, France eventually got moving as Olivier Giroud sent a header wide then thumped another against the post. 
 
However, with Albania taking every opportunity to slow the game, half the team taking it in turns to go down with cramp, it was looking as if France were going to have to settle for a point. 
 
Griezmann, however, who had a fantastic season for Atletico Madrid, showed Giroud how to connect with a header. Payet seemed only too happy to cap off another enterprising display by adding the icing after a quickfire break. 
 
Relieved France coach Didier Deschamps accepted his original approach had not worked but was pleased that the tactical switches paid off. 
 
&quot;We didn&#39;t do enough in the first half but the second half was a lot better,&quot; he said. &quot;The players who came on made a difference. We are not stuck with one format we can switch things, we had a much better balance in the second half. The big teams here are having problems. There are no easy opponents, as you could see again tonight.&quot; 
 
That was certainly true of Albania, who grew in confidence as the night went on. 
 
&quot;We didn&#39;t just defend, we had clear-cut chances,&quot; said their coach Gianni De Biasi. &quot;But if you don&#39;t score, you don&#39;t win.&quot;

A last-gasp finish over Albania sealed the deal for the hosts

A 90th-minute header by substitute striker Antoine Griezmann and a stoppage-time special by Dimitri Payet secured France a heartstopping 2-0 win over Albania on Wednesday that sent the hosts through as the first team into the last 16 of Euro 2016. France had struggled to make any impression on a determined Albanian defence and as the clock ticked into the last minute neither team had managed a single shot on target, though both had hit a post. France had needed an 89th-minute Payet goal to beat Romania in their first game. Against Albania, it came even later when centre back Adil Rami swung in a hopeful cross that Griezmann guided home expertly. The 67,000 Stade Velodrome crowd, minus 20,000 stunned Albanians, erupted in jubilation, which was repeated five minutes later when Payet cut inside to smash in the second. With six points France are guaranteed to finish in the top two of Group A, with Switzerland, who are on four points after drawing with Romania earlier, favourites to join them in the knockout phase. Once the euphoria of the moment had elapsed, Payet was able to take a broad view. "It would be good if we could avoid that type of crazy scenario," he said after picking up his second successive man of the match award. "What we have to do is start matches the way we started the second half. With Paul (Pogba) and Griezou (Griezmann) coming on and a different system, it worked a lot better." It needed to. France were hesitant and risk-averse in a forgettable first half as the ploy of using the speed of Kingsley Coman and Anthony Martial out wide failed to pay dividends. Albania, desperate to make their mark in their first major tournament defended with gusto and almost went ahead early in the second half when French full back Bacary Sagna bundled the ball against his own post. With the halftime introduction of Pogba, and then Griezmann, France eventually got moving as Olivier Giroud sent a header wide then thumped another against the post. However, with Albania taking every opportunity to slow the game, half the team taking it in turns to go down with cramp, it was looking as if France were going to have to settle for a point. Griezmann, however, who had a fantastic season for Atletico Madrid, showed Giroud how to connect with a header. Payet seemed only too happy to cap off another enterprising display by adding the icing after a quickfire break. Relieved France coach Didier Deschamps accepted his original approach had not worked but was pleased that the tactical switches paid off. "We didn't do enough in the first half but the second half was a lot better," he said. "The players who came on made a difference. We are not stuck with one format we can switch things, we had a much better balance in the second half. The big teams here are having problems. There are no easy opponents, as you could see again tonight." That was certainly true of Albania, who grew in confidence as the night went on. "We didn't just defend, we had clear-cut chances," said their coach Gianni De Biasi. "But if you don't score, you don't win."

France first to seal last 16 spot at Euro 2016

France ended the group stage of Euro 2016 in the position they wanted but their coach still seems to be looking for the right formula to bring the best out of a team with high expectations. 
 
Didier Deschamps has been tinkering with the team formula since the start of the tournament, making five changes for Sunday&#39;s goalless draw with Switzerland that allowed the host nation to win their group. 
 
France, who have plenty of talent up front, showed potential in the second half against Albania and in the first against Switzerland but they are yet to produce a full-match performance suggesting they could trouble the big guns. 
 
All they have done so far is win one of the weakest groups in the tournament and it remains to be seen how their back four, arguably their weakest point, will hold against more dangerous opponents. 
 
An astute tactician, Deschamps surprised many observers when he left midfielder Paul Pogba and striker Antoine Griezmann, regarded as France&#39;s most dangerous weapons, on the bench for the opening half against Albania. 
 
With his side struggling in a 4-2-3-1 formation, the coach reacted swiftly by sending on Pogba, and then Griezmann and reverting to a 4-3-3 system that eventually wore down Albania&#39;s defence. 
 
There was another surprise on Sunday when Dimitri Payet, who was instrumental in France&#39;s first two wins with a great goal in each, started on the bench, leaving his spot in the starting 11 to Kingsley Coman. 
 
Deschamps will have been pleased with a few things he saw against Switzerland, notably the fact that Pogba, who was all over the pitch in the first half, showed his class at last after subdued displays in his first two outings. 
 
With Pogba in that form and more of the same from Payet, France, will now almost certainly keep relying on a 4-3-3 formation which is working much better for them, and could step up a gear in the knockout stages. 
 
The pair of Laurent Koscielny and Adil Rami now looking safer after showing signs of nerves in warm-up games and against Romania, the defence is less of a worry for Deschamps, even if left back Patrice Evra is looking his age and might be targeted by opponents to come. 
 
Deschamps, who captained France to victory at the 1998 World Cup and at the European Championship two years later, has a reputation for changing everything he touches into gold. 
 
He&#39;s not quite at that level yet at this tournament but there are a few signs suggesting he is moving in the right direction. 
 
(Reuters)

The win ensured that the host nation ended at the top of their group

France ended the group stage of Euro 2016 in the position they wanted but their coach still seems to be looking for the right formula to bring the best out of a team with high expectations. Didier Deschamps has been tinkering with the team formula since the start of the tournament, making five changes for Sunday's goalless draw with Switzerland that allowed the host nation to win their group. France, who have plenty of talent up front, showed potential in the second half against Albania and in the first against Switzerland but they are yet to produce a full-match performance suggesting they could trouble the big guns. All they have done so far is win one of the weakest groups in the tournament and it remains to be seen how their back four, arguably their weakest point, will hold against more dangerous opponents. An astute tactician, Deschamps surprised many observers when he left midfielder Paul Pogba and striker Antoine Griezmann, regarded as France's most dangerous weapons, on the bench for the opening half against Albania. With his side struggling in a 4-2-3-1 formation, the coach reacted swiftly by sending on Pogba, and then Griezmann and reverting to a 4-3-3 system that eventually wore down Albania's defence. There was another surprise on Sunday when Dimitri Payet, who was instrumental in France's first two wins with a great goal in each, started on the bench, leaving his spot in the starting 11 to Kingsley Coman. Deschamps will have been pleased with a few things he saw against Switzerland, notably the fact that Pogba, who was all over the pitch in the first half, showed his class at last after subdued displays in his first two outings. With Pogba in that form and more of the same from Payet, France, will now almost certainly keep relying on a 4-3-3 formation which is working much better for them, and could step up a gear in the knockout stages. The pair of Laurent Koscielny and Adil Rami now looking safer after showing signs of nerves in warm-up games and against Romania, the defence is less of a worry for Deschamps, even if left back Patrice Evra is looking his age and might be targeted by opponents to come. Deschamps, who captained France to victory at the 1998 World Cup and at the European Championship two years later, has a reputation for changing everything he touches into gold. He's not quite at that level yet at this tournament but there are a few signs suggesting he is moving in the right direction. (Reuters)

France home and dry after goalless draw with Switzerland

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone, a month on from a second Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid in three years, has made it clear that his immediate future is with the Spanish club. 
 
The Argentine, who has been at Atletico since 2011 and is under contract for another four years, said after the loss on penalties to Real that he wanted to explore his options. But now he says he is only concentrating on making the team better. 
 
&quot;I spoke in the heat of the moment,&quot; Simeone told reporters on Wednesday in Buenos Aires. &quot;We Argentinians are like that. Others are not at fault for beating you, I learned that a long time ago. 
 
&quot;To remember the pain and the suffering is necessary to better yourself.&quot; 
 
Simeone has won the Europa League, King&#39;s Cup and La Liga in his four-and-a-half seasons at the Spanish club. 
 
The 46-year-old says only a few teams that have &quot;more resources&quot; are superior to Atletico and expects his side to continue to fight for titles domestically and internationally. 
 
&quot;I don&#39;t believe there are many teams better than us,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;We have created a strong group. To be better than Atletico is very difficult because we play as a team. Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are better than Atletico, no one else. We are constantly anxious to improve.&quot; 
 
Atletico president Enrique Cerezo is looking to keep the same core of players while also bringing in reinforcements. 
 
French forward Antoine Griezmann, who scored 32 goals in 51 appearances for Atletico this season, signed a one-year contract extension earlier this month. 
 
Atletico have agreed to sign Argentine midfielder Nicolas Gaitan from Benfica and are looking to strengthen their attack. 
 
&quot;The aim is to improve from last season,&quot; Cerezo told reporters on Wednesday. &quot;I know what Atletico needs and that is why we are working well and we will bring in players and good ones.&quot; 
 
&quot;We have turned down offers of millions for almost every player that we have and we will assume that financial weight in order to maintain the backbone of this team and for the important players to remain here.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

The Argentine, who has been at Atletico since 2011, is under contract for another four years, and wants to make the team better

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone, a month on from a second Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid in three years, has made it clear that his immediate future is with the Spanish club. The Argentine, who has been at Atletico since 2011 and is under contract for another four years, said after the loss on penalties to Real that he wanted to explore his options. But now he says he is only concentrating on making the team better. "I spoke in the heat of the moment," Simeone told reporters on Wednesday in Buenos Aires. "We Argentinians are like that. Others are not at fault for beating you, I learned that a long time ago. "To remember the pain and the suffering is necessary to better yourself." Simeone has won the Europa League, King's Cup and La Liga in his four-and-a-half seasons at the Spanish club. The 46-year-old says only a few teams that have "more resources" are superior to Atletico and expects his side to continue to fight for titles domestically and internationally. "I don't believe there are many teams better than us," he said. "We have created a strong group. To be better than Atletico is very difficult because we play as a team. Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are better than Atletico, no one else. We are constantly anxious to improve." Atletico president Enrique Cerezo is looking to keep the same core of players while also bringing in reinforcements. French forward Antoine Griezmann, who scored 32 goals in 51 appearances for Atletico this season, signed a one-year contract extension earlier this month. Atletico have agreed to sign Argentine midfielder Nicolas Gaitan from Benfica and are looking to strengthen their attack. "The aim is to improve from last season," Cerezo told reporters on Wednesday. "I know what Atletico needs and that is why we are working well and we will bring in players and good ones." "We have turned down offers of millions for almost every player that we have and we will assume that financial weight in order to maintain the backbone of this team and for the important players to remain here." (Reuters)

Simeone vows to stay on and improve Atletico

Football tensions mounted and patriotic hopes rose Sunday ahead of the Euro 2016 final between hosts France and Portugal that will unleash a clash between one of the world&#39;s greatest ever players Cristiano Ronaldo and would-be pretender Antoine Griezmann. 
 
After 50 matches over a month of football that has seen stunning shocks by Iceland and Wales, Ronaldo is counting on his side to produce one more upset so he can finally win an international trophy. 
 
Portugal will have to beat a French side who have found new inspiration from Griezmann, the tournament&#39;s leading scorer with six goals and will be willed on by a nation longing to rediscover the feelgood factor. 
 
With the country still on terrorist alert after the November 13 attacks in which 130 people died, more than 3,400 police will be on the Champs Elysees in Paris alone when the match starts at the Stade de France at 1900 GMT. 
 
National flags hung from apartment blocks and homes in cities across France and Portugal as football fever mounted. 
 
The buildup to Euro 2016 was clouded by fears that the tournament would be targeted by jihadists after 130 people were killed in terror attacks on Paris in November. 
 
&quot;The French people needed to find their way again,&quot; President Francois Hollande said in a commentary on the wave of support for the national team that has been in disgrace in recent years. 
 
&quot;We saw it at the time of the attacks. We came together in the dramas, we had to find ourselves in the happiness, to come together.&quot;Rival coaches Didier Deschamps of France and Fernando Santos of Portugal have been desperately trying to shield their teams from the sky-high hopes of their nations. 
 
Deschamps, who captained the French side that won the 1998 World Cup and the Euro title in 2000, said he could feel the adrenaline pumping. 
 
&quot;It`s an exceptional moment, a privilege, a unique chance because there is a title at the end,&quot; Deschamps said of the final. 
 
&quot;What you need to do is approach it as relaxed as possible while being at the same time totally focused on the match,&quot; he added. 
 
&quot;On the bench, there is a frustration in not taking part, but I can&#39;t do that anyway. But I&#39;m fine, I don&#39;t feel any pressure, no stress, just adrenaline and that&#39;s positive.&quot; 
 
France have put in some stylish performances, including their 5-2 win over Iceland to end the giant-killing run of the team that dumped England out of the contest. 
 
France captain Hugo Lloris said the team wants to put their name in the history books to redeem themselves for a player revolt at the 2010 World Cup that made them a national disgrace. 
 
The troubles were worsened by the exclusion of star striker Karim Benzema over an alleged sextape blackmail attempt. 
 
&quot;We have come through a crisis in French football,&quot; the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper said. &quot;We have climbed back up the slope, we have done it step by step.&quot; 
 
Lloris said Sunday&#39;s final is &quot;the chance to go into French football history.&quot; 
 
France, with home advantage in the 85,000-capacity stadium, and with Griezmann, star midfielder Paul Pogba and the calming influence of Lloris, start as favourites. 
 
But they acknowledge the omnipresent danger of Ronaldo on the pitch. 
 
Santos has succeeded by building a team around the superstar striker and winning &quot;ugly&quot; when necessary to get to the next round. 
 
Portugal&#39;s 2-0 win over Wales in the semi-final was their first in the tournament achieved within 90 minutes. 
 
Veterans such as defender Pepe and Ricardo Quaresma have played lynchpin roles on days when Ronaldo has failed to fire.Portugal have been criticised for some of their European Championship performances but Santos said he does not care. 
 
He also says France are the favourites but believes Portugal can win. 
 
&quot;Let them carry on saying that Portugal won without deserving it,&quot; he said. 
 
&quot;I will be very happy if they say that again tomorrow. I will go home very happy.&quot; 
 
Portugal have never fully recovered from losing the 2004 Euro final to Greece when they hosted the tournament. 
 
Ronaldo, who shed tears as a 19-year-old at that match, said this week he wants to be &quot;crying with joy&quot; today. 
 
Ronaldo&#39;s Real Madrid teammate Pepe is fully fit again after missing the semi-final through injury. Pepe said Portugal were strong because they want to win. 
 
&quot;I&#39;ve been at a very demanding club for 10 years and I`ve been playing for Portugal since 2008,&quot; he said when asked about his own ambition to win at the age of 33. 
 
&quot;I have three European Championship and two World Cup campaigns to my name. 
 
&quot;I have always been very demanding of myself. I don`t like to lose, I want to help my team. That makes me play at the highest level and to be recognised at the highest level.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

France Captain Hugo Lloris said Sunday's final is 'the chance to go into French football history'

Football tensions mounted and patriotic hopes rose Sunday ahead of the Euro 2016 final between hosts France and Portugal that will unleash a clash between one of the world's greatest ever players Cristiano Ronaldo and would-be pretender Antoine Griezmann. After 50 matches over a month of football that has seen stunning shocks by Iceland and Wales, Ronaldo is counting on his side to produce one more upset so he can finally win an international trophy. Portugal will have to beat a French side who have found new inspiration from Griezmann, the tournament's leading scorer with six goals and will be willed on by a nation longing to rediscover the feelgood factor. With the country still on terrorist alert after the November 13 attacks in which 130 people died, more than 3,400 police will be on the Champs Elysees in Paris alone when the match starts at the Stade de France at 1900 GMT. National flags hung from apartment blocks and homes in cities across France and Portugal as football fever mounted. The buildup to Euro 2016 was clouded by fears that the tournament would be targeted by jihadists after 130 people were killed in terror attacks on Paris in November. "The French people needed to find their way again," President Francois Hollande said in a commentary on the wave of support for the national team that has been in disgrace in recent years. "We saw it at the time of the attacks. We came together in the dramas, we had to find ourselves in the happiness, to come together."Rival coaches Didier Deschamps of France and Fernando Santos of Portugal have been desperately trying to shield their teams from the sky-high hopes of their nations. Deschamps, who captained the French side that won the 1998 World Cup and the Euro title in 2000, said he could feel the adrenaline pumping. "It`s an exceptional moment, a privilege, a unique chance because there is a title at the end," Deschamps said of the final. "What you need to do is approach it as relaxed as possible while being at the same time totally focused on the match," he added. "On the bench, there is a frustration in not taking part, but I can't do that anyway. But I'm fine, I don't feel any pressure, no stress, just adrenaline and that's positive." France have put in some stylish performances, including their 5-2 win over Iceland to end the giant-killing run of the team that dumped England out of the contest. France captain Hugo Lloris said the team wants to put their name in the history books to redeem themselves for a player revolt at the 2010 World Cup that made them a national disgrace. The troubles were worsened by the exclusion of star striker Karim Benzema over an alleged sextape blackmail attempt. "We have come through a crisis in French football," the Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper said. "We have climbed back up the slope, we have done it step by step." Lloris said Sunday's final is "the chance to go into French football history." France, with home advantage in the 85,000-capacity stadium, and with Griezmann, star midfielder Paul Pogba and the calming influence of Lloris, start as favourites. But they acknowledge the omnipresent danger of Ronaldo on the pitch. Santos has succeeded by building a team around the superstar striker and winning "ugly" when necessary to get to the next round. Portugal's 2-0 win over Wales in the semi-final was their first in the tournament achieved within 90 minutes. Veterans such as defender Pepe and Ricardo Quaresma have played lynchpin roles on days when Ronaldo has failed to fire.Portugal have been criticised for some of their European Championship performances but Santos said he does not care. He also says France are the favourites but believes Portugal can win. "Let them carry on saying that Portugal won without deserving it," he said. "I will be very happy if they say that again tomorrow. I will go home very happy." Portugal have never fully recovered from losing the 2004 Euro final to Greece when they hosted the tournament. Ronaldo, who shed tears as a 19-year-old at that match, said this week he wants to be "crying with joy" today. Ronaldo's Real Madrid teammate Pepe is fully fit again after missing the semi-final through injury. Pepe said Portugal were strong because they want to win. "I've been at a very demanding club for 10 years and I`ve been playing for Portugal since 2008," he said when asked about his own ambition to win at the age of 33. "I have three European Championship and two World Cup campaigns to my name. "I have always been very demanding of myself. I don`t like to lose, I want to help my team. That makes me play at the highest level and to be recognised at the highest level." (AFP)

France, Portugal head for Euro 2016 final showdown

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