Defending champions Real Madrid have sailed through to the finals of UEFA Champions League after defeating Bayern Munich in the semi-finals with an aggregate of 4-3.

Real Madrid were already leading by winning the first Leg by 2-1 even though Bayern dominated the match.

In the second Leg, Real Madrid took advantage of Bayern Munich’s carelessness in attack and defence to draw 2-2 to enter the Champions League final for a third year a row.

In the first half, Bayern's Defender Joshua Kimmich scored in the third minute to cover the deficit of Leg 1 but Karim Benzema levelled with a free header in the 11th minute.

Bayern Munich displayed a very poor defence&nbsp;in the match and the worst of all when goalkeeper Sven Ulreich's blooper allowed Real Madrid to take a 2-1 lead in the 45th minute.

An absolute shocker when Bayern's defender Corentin Tolisso passed to the goalkeeper Sven Ulreich from the right-back position and brain freeze Ulreich slipped and could not handle the ball.

Benzema then took the advantage and scored the goal into an empty net.

Watch the video:

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What an absolute howler by Bayern's goalkeeper, Sven Ulreich to allow Benzema to score this goal. Madness!?<a href="https://t.co/H0E9bVQALL">pic.twitter.com/H0E9bVQALL</a>
— Roro O'Monstro.™ (@Roromeo_MUFC10) <a href="https://twitter.com/Roromeo_MUFC10/status/991406162200354816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Benzema’s goal.... AGAIN! 
Hattrick? ?? <a href="https://t.co/6wy6fpFVwd">pic.twitter.com/6wy6fpFVwd</a>
— Real Madrid Lebanon (@RealMadridLeb) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealMadridLeb/status/991405905127268352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Bayern's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich's blooper allowed Real Madrid to take a 2-1 lead in the 45th minute

Defending champions Real Madrid have sailed through to the finals of UEFA Champions League after defeating Bayern Munich in the semi-finals with an aggregate of 4-3. Real Madrid were already leading by winning the first Leg by 2-1 even though Bayern dominated the match. In the second Leg, Real Madrid took advantage of Bayern Munich’s carelessness in attack and defence to draw 2-2 to enter the Champions League final for a third year a row. In the first half, Bayern's Defender Joshua Kimmich scored in the third minute to cover the deficit of Leg 1 but Karim Benzema levelled with a free header in the 11th minute. Bayern Munich displayed a very poor defence in the match and the worst of all when goalkeeper Sven Ulreich's blooper allowed Real Madrid to take a 2-1 lead in the 45th minute. An absolute shocker when Bayern's defender Corentin Tolisso passed to the goalkeeper Sven Ulreich from the right-back position and brain freeze Ulreich slipped and could not handle the ball. Benzema then took the advantage and scored the goal into an empty net. Watch the video: What an absolute howler by Bayern's goalkeeper, Sven Ulreich to allow Benzema to score this goal. Madness!?pic.twitter.com/H0E9bVQALL — Roro O'Monstro.™ (@Roromeo_MUFC10) May 1, 2018 × Benzema’s goal.... AGAIN! Hattrick? ?? pic.twitter.com/6wy6fpFVwd — Real Madrid Lebanon (@RealMadridLeb) May 1, 2018 ×

Watch: Defender passes, Bayern goalie misses, Real go to Champions League finals

Bayern Munich players were left shaking their heads after Real Madrid made the most of their few opportunities to earn a 2-1 comeback victory in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

The Bavarians, chasing a treble of titles, squandered a succession of good chances while the Spaniards were ruthless, scoring with Marcelo's opportunist long-range shot and catching the Germans on the breakthrough Marco Asensio after a bad mistake by Bayern's Rafinha.

"I don't know how we managed this," Bayern's Thomas Mueller told reporters. "We compensated well after the early injuries (to Arjen Robben and Jerome Boateng) and we were really good.

"But we were too naive and we did not make the chances we got, we just did not do it tonight. How Real did this is their thing but we certainly played our part in that."

Robben went off after eight minutes and Boateng followed soon afterwards with a suspected adductor muscle injury.

"We had a lot of really, really good chances and in the Bundesliga we usually just say thank you," Mueller said.

"Here maybe the importance of the game played a part. It hurts but it shows there is still some things to do in the second leg.".

Bayern went close through Franck Ribery, Robert Lewandowski and Mueller after Joshua Kimmich had put them ahead in the 28th minute.

The Germans have only themselves to blame for not killing off the game before Asensio scored the winner in the 57th minute to give Real a significant advantage for the return leg.

The Bavarians have been eliminated by Spanish clubs in the competition in the past four seasons, including Real last year.

"We did not convert our many chances and Real shot twice on goal and scored," Kimmich said.

"Real threatened only twice and scored twice. We had eight or nine chances. So many huge chances we did not even have against Hanover 96 last week."

"Now Real won 2-1, they are slight favourites but we will give it everything," Kimmich added.

The Bavarians, chasing a treble of titles, squandered a succession of good chances while the Spaniards were ruthless

Bayern Munich players were left shaking their heads after Real Madrid made the most of their few opportunities to earn a 2-1 comeback victory in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday. The Bavarians, chasing a treble of titles, squandered a succession of good chances while the Spaniards were ruthless, scoring with Marcelo's opportunist long-range shot and catching the Germans on the breakthrough Marco Asensio after a bad mistake by Bayern's Rafinha. "I don't know how we managed this," Bayern's Thomas Mueller told reporters. "We compensated well after the early injuries (to Arjen Robben and Jerome Boateng) and we were really good. "But we were too naive and we did not make the chances we got, we just did not do it tonight. How Real did this is their thing but we certainly played our part in that." Robben went off after eight minutes and Boateng followed soon afterwards with a suspected adductor muscle injury. "We had a lot of really, really good chances and in the Bundesliga we usually just say thank you," Mueller said. "Here maybe the importance of the game played a part. It hurts but it shows there is still some things to do in the second leg.". Bayern went close through Franck Ribery, Robert Lewandowski and Mueller after Joshua Kimmich had put them ahead in the 28th minute. The Germans have only themselves to blame for not killing off the game before Asensio scored the winner in the 57th minute to give Real a significant advantage for the return leg. The Bavarians have been eliminated by Spanish clubs in the competition in the past four seasons, including Real last year. "We did not convert our many chances and Real shot twice on goal and scored," Kimmich said. "Real threatened only twice and scored twice. We had eight or nine chances. So many huge chances we did not even have against Hanover 96 last week." "Now Real won 2-1, they are slight favourites but we will give it everything," Kimmich added.

Champions League: Profligate Bayern in shock after loss to ruthless Real

Injuries overshadowed the Bavarians as in the absence of star players, Bayern Munich suffered a tragic defeat by defending champions Real Madrid. Within few minutes after the kick-off, Munich got two major blows as their star player Arjen Robben limped off and was replaced by Thiago Alcantara and&nbsp;Jerome Boateng too got injured and&nbsp;was replaced by Niklas Suele in&nbsp;first half itself.

Although, Bayern dominated the entire game but two goals from Marcelo and Marco Asensio gave a 2-1 lead in the first leg semi-final of UEFA Champions League at the Allianz Arena on Thursday.

Joshua Kimmich scored in the 28th minute to gave an early lead in&nbsp;first half but just a few minutes later, the score was equalized by mesmerizing Marcelo to make it 1-1.

In&nbsp;second half, substitute Marco Asensio took advantage of&nbsp;Rafinha's poor pass and stunned Bayern's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich to&nbsp;score&nbsp;the winning&nbsp;goal in&nbsp;57th minute.

Real Madrid are looking forward to clinching UEFA&nbsp;title for the third consecutive time. Their intent was reflected in their performance as they&nbsp;were very accurate and balanced while playing against Bayern. On the other hand, Bayern had many chances but the conversion rate was very poor.

Although Bayern's winger, Franck Ribery was outstanding with his efforts and created many chances for the team they failed&nbsp;to recover from the Asensio's blow and despite having nearly 60 per cent of possession they could not find an equaliser.

The defeat snapped Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes's 12-game winning streak in the competition stretching back to 2013. Now, Real Madrid have two away goal advantage which will make&nbsp;the second led more intriguing.

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Most goals: 120 ✔️ 
Only player ever to score in 11 straight games ✔️ 
Most final wins (joint record): ????✔️ 
Most goals in a season: 17 (2013/14) ✔️ 
 
Top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo to lift the trophy again in 2018? ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/emiJeEazrt">pic.twitter.com/emiJeEazrt</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/989246226578190336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Holders & 12-time European champions Real Madrid become first side in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> history to record 150 wins. ? <a href="https://t.co/dQOObaK8QE">pic.twitter.com/dQOObaK8QE</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/989243414171541504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Liverpool crushed AS Roma 5-2 in the other semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Injuries overshadowed the Bavarians as in the absence of star players, Bayern Munich suffered a tragic defeat by defending champions Real Madrid

Injuries overshadowed the Bavarians as in the absence of star players, Bayern Munich suffered a tragic defeat by defending champions Real Madrid. Within few minutes after the kick-off, Munich got two major blows as their star player Arjen Robben limped off and was replaced by Thiago Alcantara and Jerome Boateng too got injured and was replaced by Niklas Suele in first half itself. Although, Bayern dominated the entire game but two goals from Marcelo and Marco Asensio gave a 2-1 lead in the first leg semi-final of UEFA Champions League at the Allianz Arena on Thursday. Joshua Kimmich scored in the 28th minute to gave an early lead in first half but just a few minutes later, the score was equalized by mesmerizing Marcelo to make it 1-1. In second half, substitute Marco Asensio took advantage of Rafinha's poor pass and stunned Bayern's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich to score the winning goal in 57th minute. Real Madrid are looking forward to clinching UEFA title for the third consecutive time. Their intent was reflected in their performance as they were very accurate and balanced while playing against Bayern. On the other hand, Bayern had many chances but the conversion rate was very poor. Although Bayern's winger, Franck Ribery was outstanding with his efforts and created many chances for the team they failed to recover from the Asensio's blow and despite having nearly 60 per cent of possession they could not find an equaliser. The defeat snapped Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes's 12-game winning streak in the competition stretching back to 2013. Now, Real Madrid have two away goal advantage which will make the second led more intriguing. Most goals: 120 ✔️ Only player ever to score in 11 straight games ✔️ Most final wins (joint record): ????✔️ Most goals in a season: 17 (2013/14) ✔️ Top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo to lift the trophy again in 2018? ?#UCL pic.twitter.com/emiJeEazrt — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 25, 2018 × Holders & 12-time European champions Real Madrid become first side in #UCL history to record 150 wins. ? pic.twitter.com/dQOObaK8QE — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 25, 2018 × Liverpool crushed AS Roma 5-2 in the other semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Champions League: Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich 2-1 in semi-final first leg

The Bavarians host defending champions Real Madrid in the first leg of UEFA Champions League semi-final at Allianz Arena, Munich on Thursday 12:15 AM. The Madrid-Munich battle is one of the most celebrated rivalries of Champions League.

Real Madrid will be looking forward to making it to the finals of Champions League for the third time but Bayern Munich is not going to be easy as they have been sensational this season. Bayern have already secured the Bundesliga title and have reached the German Cup final as well.

Zidane mentioned that how Bayern have improved under the guidance of Jupp Heynckes. While addressing the media, Zidane said, "We will need a big performance against a strong opponent. Bayern are a great club with great team spirit."

The squad of Real Madrid is fit and healthy, Zizou has travelled to Munich with the full squad.

On the other hand, Bayern have several injury issues. As Manuel Neuer is still out and Arturo Vidal has already been ruled out due to knee surgery. David Alaba and Corentin Tolisso too might not play due to some injury issues.

In a recent press conference, Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes said, "We have an extraordinary atmosphere within the team but this is the only way to be successful against the greatest. That's why I'm very optimistic for the two games. Yet, it must be noted that the other side is a top team with a lot of international experience, including world champions and several Champions League winners. Faith can move mountains."

A very intriguing clash awaits tonight with a 50-50 winning probability.

Playing XI: (TBC)

Real Madrid: Navas Carvajal, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo Modric, Casemiro, Modric Isco, Ronaldo, Benzema.

Bayern Munich: Ulreich Kimmich, Hummels, Boateng, Rafinha Martinez, James, Thiago, Robben, Müller Lewandowski.

&nbsp;

Zidane-led Real Madrid are looking to make it back to the final for the third season in a row

The Bavarians host defending champions Real Madrid in the first leg of UEFA Champions League semi-final at Allianz Arena, Munich on Thursday 12:15 AM. The Madrid-Munich battle is one of the most celebrated rivalries of Champions League. Real Madrid will be looking forward to making it to the finals of Champions League for the third time but Bayern Munich is not going to be easy as they have been sensational this season. Bayern have already secured the Bundesliga title and have reached the German Cup final as well. Zidane mentioned that how Bayern have improved under the guidance of Jupp Heynckes. While addressing the media, Zidane said, "We will need a big performance against a strong opponent. Bayern are a great club with great team spirit." The squad of Real Madrid is fit and healthy, Zizou has travelled to Munich with the full squad. On the other hand, Bayern have several injury issues. As Manuel Neuer is still out and Arturo Vidal has already been ruled out due to knee surgery. David Alaba and Corentin Tolisso too might not play due to some injury issues. In a recent press conference, Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes said, "We have an extraordinary atmosphere within the team but this is the only way to be successful against the greatest. That's why I'm very optimistic for the two games. Yet, it must be noted that the other side is a top team with a lot of international experience, including world champions and several Champions League winners. Faith can move mountains." A very intriguing clash awaits tonight with a 50-50 winning probability. Playing XI: (TBC) Real Madrid: Navas Carvajal, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo Modric, Casemiro, Modric Isco, Ronaldo, Benzema. Bayern Munich: Ulreich Kimmich, Hummels, Boateng, Rafinha Martinez, James, Thiago, Robben, Müller Lewandowski.

Champions League: Match preview of Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich

Jupp Heynckes expressed his delight at Bayern Munich's ability to keep their composure despite a frustrating 0-0 draw against 10-man Sevilla as they qualified for the Champions League semi-finals.

Bayern progressed to the last four on Wednesday for the seventh time in nine seasons, prevailing 2-1 on aggregate following their first-leg victory in Spain last week. Franck Ribery had Bayern's best chance in the Munich home leg, but he fired at Sevilla goalkeeper David Soria in the first half at the Allianz Arena.

Sevilla's Joaquin Correa hit the Bayern crossbar with a header on the hour mark before being sent off just before the final whistle for a foul on Javi Martinez.Spain international Martinez finished with a bruised knee, while James Rodriguez picked up a thigh injury in a bruising encounter.&nbsp

Heynckes was pleased his side ground out the result despite their inability to breach a determined Sevilla defence."You can’t always play brilliantly and put the opponent to the wall, sometimes you have to just keep them scoreless," Heynckes said.

"They hit the bar, which didn’t let us rest, but we didn’t get nervous." Heynckes praised the discipline exhibited by his players.

Top scorer Robert Lewandowski, in addition to Ribery, Jerome Boateng and Joshua Kimmich, had been a yellow card away from suspension but the quartet emerged unscathed.&nbsp"We kept our discipline and we didn’t pick up any yellow cards, even though four players were in danger of being suspended, which was important," he said.

Thomas Mueller admitted it was a frustrating night for Bayern and their fans as they struggled to cope with Sevilla playmaker Ever Banega. "In the first 20, 25 minutes, we managed to constrict Sevilla, but too often we didn't get pressure on Banega," Mueller said. "Annoyingly, we did not score, although we had chances.

"We played well, even if it wasn't a good game for the general public."

After Barcelona and Manchester City -- the runaway leaders in Spain and England respectively -- crashed out on Tuesday, Bayern are the only team left in Europe who can still win the treble. They wrapped up a sixth straight Bundesliga title last Saturday and are into the semi-finals of the German Cup.

Liverpool, defending champions Real Madrid and Roma, who knocked out Barcelona, are also in Friday's draw for the semi-finals, but Heynckes has no preference.&nbsp"You saw yesterday in Manchester and Rome that we can't underestimate any team - all the three other teams are at the top level," he said.

"Of course, we are ambitious and we want to reach the final, but we have two hard games ahead of us, whoever we get.&nbsp"You saw that Barcelona clearly thought the job was done before they played Roma, so I have no preference."

Sevilla's bid for a first semi-final appearance fell short in spite of shutting out Bayern's attack and restricting the hosts to 51 percent possession.&nbspSevilla boss Vincenzo Montella said they need the same passion in their fight to get back among the European places in the Spanish league, where they are currently seventh.

"I am proud of my team, they showed personality with heart and they never gave up against a team which can win the Champions League," said Montella.&nbsp"We put in a good performance, we had our chances, they certainly weren’t clear chances, but Correa hit the woodwork.

"Sevilla can leave Munich with heads held high."

"We have to have the same attitude, passion and determination now in the league and cup," he added, with Sevilla due to face Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on April 21.

Top scorer Robert Lewandowski, in addition to Ribery, Jerome Boateng and Joshua Kimmich, had been a yellow card away from suspension but the quartet emerged unscathed.

Jupp Heynckes expressed his delight at Bayern Munich's ability to keep their composure despite a frustrating 0-0 draw against 10-man Sevilla as they qualified for the Champions League semi-finals. Bayern progressed to the last four on Wednesday for the seventh time in nine seasons, prevailing 2-1 on aggregate following their first-leg victory in Spain last week. Franck Ribery had Bayern's best chance in the Munich home leg, but he fired at Sevilla goalkeeper David Soria in the first half at the Allianz Arena. Sevilla's Joaquin Correa hit the Bayern crossbar with a header on the hour mark before being sent off just before the final whistle for a foul on Javi Martinez.Spain international Martinez finished with a bruised knee, while James Rodriguez picked up a thigh injury in a bruising encounter. Heynckes was pleased his side ground out the result despite their inability to breach a determined Sevilla defence."You can’t always play brilliantly and put the opponent to the wall, sometimes you have to just keep them scoreless," Heynckes said. "They hit the bar, which didn’t let us rest, but we didn’t get nervous." Heynckes praised the discipline exhibited by his players. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski, in addition to Ribery, Jerome Boateng and Joshua Kimmich, had been a yellow card away from suspension but the quartet emerged unscathed. "We kept our discipline and we didn’t pick up any yellow cards, even though four players were in danger of being suspended, which was important," he said. Thomas Mueller admitted it was a frustrating night for Bayern and their fans as they struggled to cope with Sevilla playmaker Ever Banega. "In the first 20, 25 minutes, we managed to constrict Sevilla, but too often we didn't get pressure on Banega," Mueller said. "Annoyingly, we did not score, although we had chances. "We played well, even if it wasn't a good game for the general public." After Barcelona and Manchester City -- the runaway leaders in Spain and England respectively -- crashed out on Tuesday, Bayern are the only team left in Europe who can still win the treble. They wrapped up a sixth straight Bundesliga title last Saturday and are into the semi-finals of the German Cup. Liverpool, defending champions Real Madrid and Roma, who knocked out Barcelona, are also in Friday's draw for the semi-finals, but Heynckes has no preference. "You saw yesterday in Manchester and Rome that we can't underestimate any team - all the three other teams are at the top level," he said. "Of course, we are ambitious and we want to reach the final, but we have two hard games ahead of us, whoever we get. "You saw that Barcelona clearly thought the job was done before they played Roma, so I have no preference." Sevilla's bid for a first semi-final appearance fell short in spite of shutting out Bayern's attack and restricting the hosts to 51 percent possession.&nbspSevilla boss Vincenzo Montella said they need the same passion in their fight to get back among the European places in the Spanish league, where they are currently seventh. "I am proud of my team, they showed personality with heart and they never gave up against a team which can win the Champions League," said Montella. "We put in a good performance, we had our chances, they certainly weren’t clear chances, but Correa hit the woodwork. "Sevilla can leave Munich with heads held high." "We have to have the same attitude, passion and determination now in the league and cup," he added, with Sevilla due to face Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on April 21.

Champions League: Bayern draw with Sevilla, keep treble dream alive

Bayern&nbsp;Munich clinched a sixth successive Bundesliga title with five games to spare on Saturday (April 7) by winning 4-1 at Augsburg despite falling behind to a bizarre own goal.

Bayern's celebrations looked in danger of being delayed when the ball went into their net off their own defender Niklas Suele but Corentin Tolisso and James Rodriguez replied for the Bavarians before halftime before Arjen Robben and Sandro Wagner put the finishing touches in the second half.

Bayern, who have 72 points from 29 games, moved 20 ahead of Schalke 04, who have six games to play including Saturday evening's visit to lowly Hamburg SV.

It was a remarkable personal achievement for&nbsp;Bayern's 72-year-old coach Jupp Heynckes, who came out of retirement in October to replace Carlo Ancelotti for his fourth stint at the club withBayern&nbsp;five points off the pace.

It was Heynckes's fourth Bundesliga title as coach, all with&nbsp;Bayern.

Augsburg dominated the first half-hour and took an 18th-minute lead with one of the oddest goalsBayern&nbsp;have conceded for a long time.

Defender Jerome Boateng, under no pressure, lost control of the ball and was dispossessed by Sergio Cordova leaving the Venezuelan with only Sven Ulreich to beat.

Cordova's shot was blocked by the&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;goalkeeper but ricocheted off the hapless Suele's face and into the net.

Bayern&nbsp;equalised out of the blue when Tolisso was left unmarked to head in from Joshua Kimmich's cross in the 32nd minute and the Bavarians took the game by the scruff of the neck.

Rodriguez slipped the ball home from Juan Bernat's clever backheel six minutes later and the Colombian also set up Robben for the third just after the hour before Wagner completed the scoring.

Bayern were three points behind leaders Borussia Dortmund when Ancelotti left but ran away with the title under Heynckes

Bayern Munich clinched a sixth successive Bundesliga title with five games to spare on Saturday (April 7) by winning 4-1 at Augsburg despite falling behind to a bizarre own goal. Bayern's celebrations looked in danger of being delayed when the ball went into their net off their own defender Niklas Suele but Corentin Tolisso and James Rodriguez replied for the Bavarians before halftime before Arjen Robben and Sandro Wagner put the finishing touches in the second half. Bayern, who have 72 points from 29 games, moved 20 ahead of Schalke 04, who have six games to play including Saturday evening's visit to lowly Hamburg SV. It was a remarkable personal achievement for Bayern's 72-year-old coach Jupp Heynckes, who came out of retirement in October to replace Carlo Ancelotti for his fourth stint at the club withBayern five points off the pace. It was Heynckes's fourth Bundesliga title as coach, all with Bayern. Augsburg dominated the first half-hour and took an 18th-minute lead with one of the oddest goalsBayern have conceded for a long time. Defender Jerome Boateng, under no pressure, lost control of the ball and was dispossessed by Sergio Cordova leaving the Venezuelan with only Sven Ulreich to beat. Cordova's shot was blocked by the Bayern goalkeeper but ricocheted off the hapless Suele's face and into the net. Bayern equalised out of the blue when Tolisso was left unmarked to head in from Joshua Kimmich's cross in the 32nd minute and the Bavarians took the game by the scruff of the neck. Rodriguez slipped the ball home from Juan Bernat's clever backheel six minutes later and the Colombian also set up Robben for the third just after the hour before Wagner completed the scoring.

Bayern Munich overcome bizarre own goal to clinch another title

A sixth successive Bundesliga title is just a matter of time for Bayern Munich, but their search for a coach to take over next season is proving far more complicated for the Bavarians.

With a massive 17-point lead, Bayern can wrap up the title with five games to spare if they win at midtable Augsburg on Saturday or if second-placed Schalke fail to beat Hamburg SV away.

Bayern have proved unstoppable since 72-year-old Jupp Heynckes, who led them to a league, cup and Champions League treble in 2013, was lured out of retirement in October to replace the sacked Carlo Ancelotti.

Under Heynckes, Bayern have won 18 out of 21 Bundesliga games, seven successive Champions League matches and reached the German Cup semi-finals but, despite everything, the club could not persuade him to extend his fourth stint.

"I discussed it all with my wife and daughter because it wasn't easy giving everything up at home at my age," said Heynckes who is living in a Munich hotel.

"You come back to an empty hotel room in the evening, which isn't fun. Most of the time I just go to bed because I'm tired."

Bayern's chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge hopes he will find a replacement by April and has established one clear condition: the new incumbent must speak German.

Despite recent dominance of the Bundesliga and an enviable structure, Bayern is not an easy club to manage.

Expectations are so high that even a minor slip-up, or failure to score five or six goals against supposedly inferior opponents, make headlines.

The fact that both Rummenigge and club president Uli Hoeness are among the club's most illustrious former players and are not afraid to speak their minds in public adds to the pressure.

Former Mainz 05 and Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel has already pulled out of the race while Germany coach Joachim Loew has also ruled out a move.

"Tuchel told us that he's signed with another club. One has to accept that, but it's not a problem for us," said Rummenigge.

Eintracht Frankfurt coach Niko Kovac, another candidate, also appeared to turn down a move on Wednesday.

"There are no grounds to doubt that I will be coach here next year," said Kovac while his sporting director Fredi Bobic said there had been no contact from Bayern and that "it's not an issue for us".

That would appear to leave Bayern with the option of luring a coach from one of their rivals, a policy that has made them unpopular among fans of other clubs in the past.

Possible candidates include RB Leipzig's Austrian coach Ralph Hasenhuettl, Augsburg's Manuel Baum and Julian Nagelsmann at Hoffenheim.

Former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, now a television analyst, suggested they give Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane a try.

"He's won everything at Real, what else is he going to do there?" said Kahn, who dismissed worries about the language barrier. "He fits perfectly with the profile Bayern are looking for. There's no reason why he can't learn good German."

Eintracht Frankfurt coach Niko Kovac, another candidate, also appeared to turn down a move on Wednesday.

A sixth successive Bundesliga title is just a matter of time for Bayern Munich, but their search for a coach to take over next season is proving far more complicated for the Bavarians. With a massive 17-point lead, Bayern can wrap up the title with five games to spare if they win at midtable Augsburg on Saturday or if second-placed Schalke fail to beat Hamburg SV away. Bayern have proved unstoppable since 72-year-old Jupp Heynckes, who led them to a league, cup and Champions League treble in 2013, was lured out of retirement in October to replace the sacked Carlo Ancelotti. Under Heynckes, Bayern have won 18 out of 21 Bundesliga games, seven successive Champions League matches and reached the German Cup semi-finals but, despite everything, the club could not persuade him to extend his fourth stint. "I discussed it all with my wife and daughter because it wasn't easy giving everything up at home at my age," said Heynckes who is living in a Munich hotel. "You come back to an empty hotel room in the evening, which isn't fun. Most of the time I just go to bed because I'm tired." Bayern's chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge hopes he will find a replacement by April and has established one clear condition: the new incumbent must speak German. Despite recent dominance of the Bundesliga and an enviable structure, Bayern is not an easy club to manage. Expectations are so high that even a minor slip-up, or failure to score five or six goals against supposedly inferior opponents, make headlines. The fact that both Rummenigge and club president Uli Hoeness are among the club's most illustrious former players and are not afraid to speak their minds in public adds to the pressure. Former Mainz 05 and Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel has already pulled out of the race while Germany coach Joachim Loew has also ruled out a move. "Tuchel told us that he's signed with another club. One has to accept that, but it's not a problem for us," said Rummenigge. Eintracht Frankfurt coach Niko Kovac, another candidate, also appeared to turn down a move on Wednesday. "There are no grounds to doubt that I will be coach here next year," said Kovac while his sporting director Fredi Bobic said there had been no contact from Bayern and that "it's not an issue for us". That would appear to leave Bayern with the option of luring a coach from one of their rivals, a policy that has made them unpopular among fans of other clubs in the past. Possible candidates include RB Leipzig's Austrian coach Ralph Hasenhuettl, Augsburg's Manuel Baum and Julian Nagelsmann at Hoffenheim. Former Bayern and Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, now a television analyst, suggested they give Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane a try. "He's won everything at Real, what else is he going to do there?" said Kahn, who dismissed worries about the language barrier. "He fits perfectly with the profile Bayern are looking for. There's no reason why he can't learn good German."

Despite dominating Bundesliga, Bayern Munich struggle to find new coach

A Thiago Alcantara strike and Sandro Wagner&#39;s first Champions League goal capped Bayern Munich&#39;s 3-1 win at Besiktas on Wednesday as the German giants cruised into the quarter-finals for the seventh year in a row.

Bayern completed a comprehensive 8-1 aggregate victory in Istanbul, having effectively clinched the last-16 tie following a 5-0 rout last month in the first leg in Munich.

For Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in October, this was his 11th straight win in the Champions League which set a new competition record.

&quot;It was a convincing result,&quot; said Heynckes. &quot;Besiktas hadn&rsquo;t lost here in the Champions League, so it wasn&rsquo;t easy.

&quot;We scored at the right times and it&#39;s normal that we dropped off a little -- losing some focus after winning 5-0 is just human.

&quot;The only negative today is that we picked up too many yellow cards,&quot; he added after defenders Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels and Rafinha all earned bookings.

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Thank you for a fantastic atmosphere tonight, <a href="https://twitter.com/BesiktasEnglish?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BesiktasEnglish</a> - we take our hats off to you ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJKFCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJKFCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/pO5UoSaGoq">pic.twitter.com/pO5UoSaGoq</a>
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After Thiago fired home early on, an own goal by Besiktas right-back Gokhan Gonul put Bayern 2-0 up right at the start of the second half.

With their team 7-0 down overall, Besiktas finally came to life, grabbing a consolation goal by Vagner Love.&nbsp;

But Bayern notched their third of the evening when backup striker Sandro Wagner came off the bench to mark his Champions League debut with his first goal at this level.&nbsp;

&quot;It was a really hectic game,&quot; said Bayern captain Thomas Mueller.

&quot;We lost the ball a lot, especially in the second half and we didn&rsquo;t have the structure in our game that we had wanted.&quot;

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Thank you for your support tonight, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBayern?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBayern</a> fans! ????❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJKFCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJKFCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/lDJI8Gb78E">pic.twitter.com/lDJI8Gb78E</a>
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Having resisted the urge to name a weakened team after their first-leg romp, Bayern wasted little time taking the lead against the Turkish champions.

Top scorer Robert Lewandowski surprisingly started up front, leaving Wagner waiting for his elite European debut until the last 20 minutes.

It was a surprise move by Heynckes with tough Bundesliga games against RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund to come this month.

Nevertheless, Lewandowski played until the 67th minute but failed to add to his 32 goals this season in all competitions.

Thiago, back after injury, celebrated his first Champions League goal since netting in the 3-0 win at home to Anderlecht last September.

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8️⃣ goals in two legs = a place in the <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChampionsLeague</a> last 8️⃣ for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBayern?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBayern</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BJKFCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BJKFCB</a> Report ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/E8AfMowuXv">https://t.co/E8AfMowuXv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/packmas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#packmas</a> <a href="https://t.co/7sJ3RQ6u3v">pic.twitter.com/7sJ3RQ6u3v</a>
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With 18 minutes gone, Bayern captain Thomas Mueller swung in a cross and the Spain international thumped the ball home from close range.

After claiming Bayern&#39;s 100th goal this season, Thiago was forced off on 35 minutes -- attacking midfielder James Rodriguez replaced him as the Colombian made his return from a calf injury.

Hummels, who along Jerome Boateng was booked in the first half, was replaced by Niklas Suele at the break before Bayern extended their lead thanks to a Besiktas own goal.

Right-back Rafinha whipped in a cross, but with the Besiktas defence focused on preventing the ball reaching the lurking Lewandowski, Gonul turned the ball into his own net.

Besiktas pulled a goal back on 59 minutes when David Alaba lost possession deep in his own half, allowing Gonul to supply Love who did just enough to roll the ball over the line.

Alaba atoned with a crucial block to deny Besiktas forward Mustafa Pektemek soon after, and the Austrian setup Wagner on 84 minutes as his deflected cross was chested over the line by the substitute.

&nbsp;

Thiago Alcantara strike and Sandro Wagner's first Champions League goal capped Bayern Munich's 3-1 win at Besiktas

A Thiago Alcantara strike and Sandro Wagner's first Champions League goal capped Bayern Munich's 3-1 win at Besiktas on Wednesday as the German giants cruised into the quarter-finals for the seventh year in a row. Bayern completed a comprehensive 8-1 aggregate victory in Istanbul, having effectively clinched the last-16 tie following a 5-0 rout last month in the first leg in Munich. For Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in October, this was his 11th straight win in the Champions League which set a new competition record. "It was a convincing result," said Heynckes. "Besiktas hadn’t lost here in the Champions League, so it wasn’t easy. "We scored at the right times and it's normal that we dropped off a little -- losing some focus after winning 5-0 is just human. "The only negative today is that we picked up too many yellow cards," he added after defenders Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels and Rafinha all earned bookings. Thank you for a fantastic atmosphere tonight, @BesiktasEnglish - we take our hats off to you ???????? #MiaSanMia #BJKFCB pic.twitter.com/pO5UoSaGoq — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) March 14, 2018 × After Thiago fired home early on, an own goal by Besiktas right-back Gokhan Gonul put Bayern 2-0 up right at the start of the second half. With their team 7-0 down overall, Besiktas finally came to life, grabbing a consolation goal by Vagner Love. But Bayern notched their third of the evening when backup striker Sandro Wagner came off the bench to mark his Champions League debut with his first goal at this level. "It was a really hectic game," said Bayern captain Thomas Mueller. "We lost the ball a lot, especially in the second half and we didn’t have the structure in our game that we had wanted." Thank you for your support tonight, #FCBayern fans! ????❤️ #MiaSanMia #BJKFCB pic.twitter.com/lDJI8Gb78E — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) March 14, 2018 × Having resisted the urge to name a weakened team after their first-leg romp, Bayern wasted little time taking the lead against the Turkish champions. Top scorer Robert Lewandowski surprisingly started up front, leaving Wagner waiting for his elite European debut until the last 20 minutes. It was a surprise move by Heynckes with tough Bundesliga games against RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund to come this month. Nevertheless, Lewandowski played until the 67th minute but failed to add to his 32 goals this season in all competitions. Thiago, back after injury, celebrated his first Champions League goal since netting in the 3-0 win at home to Anderlecht last September. 8️⃣ goals in two legs = a place in the @ChampionsLeague last 8️⃣ for #FCBayern! #BJKFCB Report ➡️ https://t.co/E8AfMowuXv #MiaSanMia #packmas pic.twitter.com/7sJ3RQ6u3v — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) March 14, 2018 × With 18 minutes gone, Bayern captain Thomas Mueller swung in a cross and the Spain international thumped the ball home from close range. After claiming Bayern's 100th goal this season, Thiago was forced off on 35 minutes -- attacking midfielder James Rodriguez replaced him as the Colombian made his return from a calf injury. Hummels, who along Jerome Boateng was booked in the first half, was replaced by Niklas Suele at the break before Bayern extended their lead thanks to a Besiktas own goal. Right-back Rafinha whipped in a cross, but with the Besiktas defence focused on preventing the ball reaching the lurking Lewandowski, Gonul turned the ball into his own net. Besiktas pulled a goal back on 59 minutes when David Alaba lost possession deep in his own half, allowing Gonul to supply Love who did just enough to roll the ball over the line. Alaba atoned with a crucial block to deny Besiktas forward Mustafa Pektemek soon after, and the Austrian setup Wagner on 84 minutes as his deflected cross was chested over the line by the substitute.

Champions League: Alcantara, Wagner shine as Bayern Munich reaches quarter-final

Thomas Mueller says Bayern Munich could repeat their 2013 treble after crushing 10-man Besiktas 5-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie.

Bayern have one foot in the quarter-finals with Besiktas facing a near impossible task for the return leg in Istanbul on March 14.

Both Mueller and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski scored twice as Bayern ran riot in the second half in Germany.

&quot;Everything is possible,&quot; Mueller said when asked whether Bayern can repeat their 2013 haul of Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup titles.

However head coach Jupp Heynckes, 72, who oversaw the treble five years ago, insists Bayern must do better if they want all three titles again.

&quot;Any talk like that is the job of journalists, the Champions League is a different competition and we must improve,&quot; said Heynckes.

&quot;Everyone in the stadium saw that we found it hard in the first half.

&quot;We didn&#39;t find our rhythm and we were nervous -- I don&#39;t know my team like that.

&quot;In the first half there wasn&#39;t any tempo to our game, our passing was off and it allowed Besiktas to attack us more.

&quot;The opener before the break gave us a psychological advantage and in the second half we saw a different Bayern team.

&quot;We scored some great goals and played some good football.&quot;

- Costly red card -

Disaster struck for Besiktas after just 16 minutes at the Allianz Arena when Croatian defender Domagoj Vida was sent off for hauling down Lewandowski as he was through on goal.

Mueller broke the deadlock just before half-time when he scored his first from close range.

The floodgates then opened after the break as Kingsley Coman struck before Mueller poached his second.

Lewandowski then scored two late goals to leave him with 29 goals in all competitions this season, as Bayern -- 19 points clear in the league and through to the German Cup semi-finals -- claimed their 14th straight victory.

Mueller said the introduction of veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery off the bench made the difference.

&quot;It&#39;s been five years since all our outfield players were fit and the trainer doesn&#39;t have it easy, but everyone who came on did a good job,&quot; said Mueller.

&quot;Arjen made us a bit more aggressive, Franck also did well and we need that extra bit of power from the bench.&quot;

Robben came on when James Rodriguez limped off with a calf injury on 44 minutes.

The Dutchman was heavily involved in Mueller and Lewandowski&#39;s second goals, but was unhappy at being left out of the starting side.

- &#39;Speak my mind&#39; -

&quot;Of course, I was disappointed, but I don&#39;t want to say any more because if I speak my mind, I will end up in front of &#39;Brazzo&#39; (Bayern&#39;s director of sport Hasan Salihamidizic),&quot; said Robben.

Like Ribery, Robben, who scored Bayern&#39;s winning goal in the 2013 Champions League final is out of contract in June.

However, Heynckes sees it as a positive to have so much experience on Bayern&#39;s bench.

&quot;I am very pleased to have a squad like this in case of injuries and illness in the future,&quot; he said.

&quot;Any top player like Arjen Robben wants to play from the start, but we have so many good players.

&quot;Anyone who signs a contract for Bayern Munich has to accept that they won&#39;t start every game.&quot;

Besiktas were making their debut in the knock-out stages of the Champions League and their head coach Senol Gunes said his side learned a harsh lesson.

&quot;We won or drew all our games in the group phase, but tonight the opponent was better,&quot; he said glumly.

&quot;After the sending off, it became too difficult for us.

&quot;We suffered mentally and physically, they took advantage.&quot;

Gunes swapped striker Vagner Love for defender Dusko Tosic in the second half, but it made little difference.

&quot;We tried to limit the damage and focus on the second half, but we couldn&#39;t manage it,&quot; said the Besiktas boss.

&quot;We are an attacking team, but we had to defend and we couldn&#39;t play our football because the opponent was too strong.&quot;

Thomas Mueller says Bayern Munich could repeat their 2013 treble after crushing 10-man Besiktas 5-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. Bayern have one foot in the quarter-finals with Besiktas facing a near impossible task for the return leg in Istanbul on March 14. Both Mueller and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski scored twice as Bayern ran riot in the second half in Germany. "Everything is possible," Mueller said when asked whether Bayern can repeat their 2013 haul of Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup titles. However head coach Jupp Heynckes, 72, who oversaw the treble five years ago, insists Bayern must do better if they want all three titles again. "Any talk like that is the job of journalists, the Champions League is a different competition and we must improve," said Heynckes. "Everyone in the stadium saw that we found it hard in the first half. "We didn't find our rhythm and we were nervous -- I don't know my team like that. "In the first half there wasn't any tempo to our game, our passing was off and it allowed Besiktas to attack us more. "The opener before the break gave us a psychological advantage and in the second half we saw a different Bayern team. "We scored some great goals and played some good football." - Costly red card - Disaster struck for Besiktas after just 16 minutes at the Allianz Arena when Croatian defender Domagoj Vida was sent off for hauling down Lewandowski as he was through on goal. Mueller broke the deadlock just before half-time when he scored his first from close range. The floodgates then opened after the break as Kingsley Coman struck before Mueller poached his second. Lewandowski then scored two late goals to leave him with 29 goals in all competitions this season, as Bayern -- 19 points clear in the league and through to the German Cup semi-finals -- claimed their 14th straight victory. Mueller said the introduction of veteran wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery off the bench made the difference. "It's been five years since all our outfield players were fit and the trainer doesn't have it easy, but everyone who came on did a good job," said Mueller. "Arjen made us a bit more aggressive, Franck also did well and we need that extra bit of power from the bench." Robben came on when James Rodriguez limped off with a calf injury on 44 minutes. The Dutchman was heavily involved in Mueller and Lewandowski's second goals, but was unhappy at being left out of the starting side. - 'Speak my mind' - "Of course, I was disappointed, but I don't want to say any more because if I speak my mind, I will end up in front of 'Brazzo' (Bayern's director of sport Hasan Salihamidizic)," said Robben. Like Ribery, Robben, who scored Bayern's winning goal in the 2013 Champions League final is out of contract in June. However, Heynckes sees it as a positive to have so much experience on Bayern's bench. "I am very pleased to have a squad like this in case of injuries and illness in the future," he said. "Any top player like Arjen Robben wants to play from the start, but we have so many good players. "Anyone who signs a contract for Bayern Munich has to accept that they won't start every game." Besiktas were making their debut in the knock-out stages of the Champions League and their head coach Senol Gunes said his side learned a harsh lesson. "We won or drew all our games in the group phase, but tonight the opponent was better," he said glumly. "After the sending off, it became too difficult for us. "We suffered mentally and physically, they took advantage." Gunes swapped striker Vagner Love for defender Dusko Tosic in the second half, but it made little difference. "We tried to limit the damage and focus on the second half, but we couldn't manage it," said the Besiktas boss. "We are an attacking team, but we had to defend and we couldn't play our football because the opponent was too strong."

Mueller starts treble talk as Bayern rout Besiktas

Paris St Germain shrugged off two consecutive defeats to beat Lille 3-1 in Ligue 1 on Saturday and open a 12-point lead at the top of the standings.

PSG lost in their previous league match against Strasbourg last Saturday, and then came undone against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek.

However, they led through Angel Di Maria&#39;s 28th-minute opener at the Parc des Princes and Javier Pastore doubled their advantage four minutes after the break. Anwar El Ghazi pulled one back for Lille before Kylian Mbappe struck in stoppage time.

Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG&#39;s better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header.

It was PSG&#39;s only effort on goal in the first half but they added to their lead shortly after halftime when a counter-attack ended with Di Maria teeing up Pastore to score.

Lille were still a threat and El Ghazi capitalised on some mistakes in the home side&#39;s defence to score with three minutes of normal time remaining.

Mbappe sealed the victory for PSG with a lightning-fast run up the field and composed finish into an empty net after Lille goalkeeper Mike Maignan had gone up for a corner.

The result left Lille still waiting for a first victory over the capital club since 1996.

Monaco can cut the gap to nine points later on Saturday if they beat Troyes, while Olympique Lyon and Olympique Marseille can also get to within nine of the leaders on Sunday.

Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG's better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header.

Paris St Germain shrugged off two consecutive defeats to beat Lille 3-1 in Ligue 1 on Saturday and open a 12-point lead at the top of the standings. PSG lost in their previous league match against Strasbourg last Saturday, and then came undone against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek. However, they led through Angel Di Maria's 28th-minute opener at the Parc des Princes and Javier Pastore doubled their advantage four minutes after the break. Anwar El Ghazi pulled one back for Lille before Kylian Mbappe struck in stoppage time. Without the suspended Neymar, Mbappe was the catalyst for much of PSG's better work and it was his cross that allowed Di Maria to break the deadlock with a header. It was PSG's only effort on goal in the first half but they added to their lead shortly after halftime when a counter-attack ended with Di Maria teeing up Pastore to score. Lille were still a threat and El Ghazi capitalised on some mistakes in the home side's defence to score with three minutes of normal time remaining. Mbappe sealed the victory for PSG with a lightning-fast run up the field and composed finish into an empty net after Lille goalkeeper Mike Maignan had gone up for a corner. The result left Lille still waiting for a first victory over the capital club since 1996. Monaco can cut the gap to nine points later on Saturday if they beat Troyes, while Olympique Lyon and Olympique Marseille can also get to within nine of the leaders on Sunday.

Football: PSG back on track with victory over Lille

Bayern Munich ruined Paris St Germain&#39;s perfect Champions League record this season with a 3-1 victory at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday but their rousing win could not stop the French side advancing as Group B winners.

With both teams already qualified for the knockout stages, Corentin Tolisso&#39;s double and another goal from Robert Lewandowski gave Bayern hope of pulling off the improbable win by a four-goal margin that would see them top the group.

Yet PSG, who had thumped Bayern 3-0 in Paris, always looked likely to avoid that indignity in a high-quality contest once Kylian Mbappe scored just after halftime when they were 2-0 down.

The top-of-the-table clash proved far from a &#39;dead rubber&#39;&nbsp;with both sides determined to demonstrate the qualities that make them among the favourites to lift the title this season.

The German champions started hungrily, Lewandowski having time to turn and score in the eighth minute after being played onside by a careless Dani Alves, before Tolisso headed home James Rodriguez&#39;s cross in the 37th minute.

With the home crowd sensing an extraordinary story, Mbappe ruined the script when heading in from Edinson Cavani&#39;s neat chipped cross five minutes after the break.

Still, the French midfielder Tolisso kept the pressure on, finishing clinically in the 69th minute after David Alaba&#39;s storming run and cross down the left flank.

While PSG and Bayern ended on 15 points each, Celtic took third place, guaranteeing Europa League football, despite losing 1-0 at home to Anderlecht, whose second-half winner came from a Jozo Simunovic own goal.

The win represented the Belgian side`s first success of the competition after five straight defeats but Celtic&#39;s previous 3-0 win at Anderlecht ensured they had the better head-to-head record.

The French side still advanced to the last 16 as Group B winners

Bayern Munich ruined Paris St Germain's perfect Champions League record this season with a 3-1 victory at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday but their rousing win could not stop the French side advancing as Group B winners. With both teams already qualified for the knockout stages, Corentin Tolisso's double and another goal from Robert Lewandowski gave Bayern hope of pulling off the improbable win by a four-goal margin that would see them top the group. Yet PSG, who had thumped Bayern 3-0 in Paris, always looked likely to avoid that indignity in a high-quality contest once Kylian Mbappe scored just after halftime when they were 2-0 down. The top-of-the-table clash proved far from a 'dead rubber' with both sides determined to demonstrate the qualities that make them among the favourites to lift the title this season. The German champions started hungrily, Lewandowski having time to turn and score in the eighth minute after being played onside by a careless Dani Alves, before Tolisso headed home James Rodriguez's cross in the 37th minute. With the home crowd sensing an extraordinary story, Mbappe ruined the script when heading in from Edinson Cavani's neat chipped cross five minutes after the break. Still, the French midfielder Tolisso kept the pressure on, finishing clinically in the 69th minute after David Alaba's storming run and cross down the left flank. While PSG and Bayern ended on 15 points each, Celtic took third place, guaranteeing Europa League football, despite losing 1-0 at home to Anderlecht, whose second-half winner came from a Jozo Simunovic own goal. The win represented the Belgian side`s first success of the competition after five straight defeats but Celtic's previous 3-0 win at Anderlecht ensured they had the better head-to-head record.

Champions League: Bayern end PSG's perfect Euro record with 3-1 win

Treble-winning coach Jupp&nbsp;Heynckes&nbsp;is&nbsp;set&nbsp;to take over at Bundesliga champions&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;Munich for a fourth time,&nbsp;succeeding sacked Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti, German media reported on Thursday.

The 72-year-old&nbsp;Heynckes&nbsp;led&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;to the domestic league and Cup double and the Champions League title in 2013 but then had to make way for Spaniard Pep Guardiola.

According to the Bild newspaper&nbsp;Heynckes, who also led Real Madrid to the Champions League title and coached Benfica, Athletic Bilbao and a string of Bundesliga clubs, will take over until the end of the season.

The club could not be immediately reached for a comment.

Italian&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;took over last season but was fired last week after the German champions slipped to second place in the league after twice squandering a two-goal lead in consecutive games.

They had also been beaten 3-0 at Paris St Germain in the Champions League.

Heynckes, who has not worked since 2013, had also coached&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;from 1987-91 and briefly took over at the end of the 2008/9 season before becoming head coach between 2011-13.

The 72-year-old?Heynckes?led?Bayern?to the domestic league and Cup double and the Champions League title in 2013 but then had to make way for Spaniard Pep Guardiola

Treble-winning coach Jupp Heynckes is set to take over at Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich for a fourth time, succeeding sacked Carlo Ancelotti, German media reported on Thursday. The 72-year-old Heynckes led Bayern to the domestic league and Cup double and the Champions League title in 2013 but then had to make way for Spaniard Pep Guardiola. According to the Bild newspaper Heynckes, who also led Real Madrid to the Champions League title and coached Benfica, Athletic Bilbao and a string of Bundesliga clubs, will take over until the end of the season. The club could not be immediately reached for a comment. Italian Ancelotti took over last season but was fired last week after the German champions slipped to second place in the league after twice squandering a two-goal lead in consecutive games. They had also been beaten 3-0 at Paris St Germain in the Champions League. Heynckes, who has not worked since 2013, had also coached Bayern from 1987-91 and briefly took over at the end of the 2008/9 season before becoming head coach between 2011-13.

Heynckes set to succeed Ancelotti as Bayern coach: Report

With <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/real-madrid-beat-juventus-to-win-champions-league-16396">Real Madrid defeating Juventus</a>&nbsp;in the Champions League final last week, we turn our attention to next season&#39;s European club competitions. Who&#39;s qualified so far from the major football leagues?

<a href="https://kassiesa.home.xs4all.nl/bert/uefa/seedcl2017.html">22&nbsp;teams</a> have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League. 57 teams in total will be fighting to qualify for the remaining 10 places in the group stages.&nbsp;Five teams, including Liverpool and Napoli,&nbsp;will be going into the 4th round of qualifiers for the competition.

The first round of qualifying for the Champions League <a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2435148.html">starts on</a> June 27, 2017.&nbsp;The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 23, 2017, with the draw to take place on August 24, 2017.

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/rEJVsV2.png" style="margin:0 auto;width: 350px;height:auto;" />

<a href="https://kassiesa.home.xs4all.nl/bert/uefa/seedel2017.html">16 teams</a> have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, including big names such as Arsenal and AC Milan. A&nbsp;total of 141 teams will be in qualifiers, fighting&nbsp;for the remaining 32&nbsp;places in the group stages. The first round of qualifying <a href="http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=2435180.html">starts on</a> June 19, 2017.&nbsp;The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 24, 2017.

<img src="http://i.imgur.com/uGFpuJa.png" style="margin:0 auto;width: 350px;height:auto;" />

With the Champions League over, we turn our attention to next season's European competitions and who'll be playing in them

With Real Madrid defeating Juventus in the Champions League final last week, we turn our attention to next season's European club competitions. Who's qualified so far from the major football leagues? 22 teams have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Champions League. 57 teams in total will be fighting to qualify for the remaining 10 places in the group stages. Five teams, including Liverpool and Napoli, will be going into the 4th round of qualifiers for the competition. The first round of qualifying for the Champions League starts on June 27, 2017. The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 23, 2017, with the draw to take place on August 24, 2017. 16 teams have qualified directly for the 2017-18 UEFA Europa League, including big names such as Arsenal and AC Milan. A total of 141 teams will be in qualifiers, fighting for the remaining 32 places in the group stages. The first round of qualifying starts on June 19, 2017. The final line-up for the group stages will be determined on August 24, 2017.

Football: Who's qualified for Europe next season?

Another hectic day of transfer news across Europe as clubs, agents and players set the ball rolling for another hectic day of backchannel negotiations.&nbsp;

Antoine Griezmann

Manchester United is in the inside lane to land the coveted French international, but their pursuit may not be all that easy anymore as Chelsea seem to be interested in him as well.

The London-based club are interested in the Atletico Madrid forward, according to The Daily Telegraph.

Although there are reports of Griezmann agreeing on&nbsp;personal terms with United, the deal may still collapse if the Red Devils fail to reach the Champions League.

Atletico have already slapped a 100 million euros (84 million GBP) release clause for clubs to lure the 25-year-old player.

A Sky report suggests that there are four more clubs in the running to secure the Frenchman&#39;s signature.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Bild believes that the African Player of the Year met PSG officials in Paris on Wednesday to discuss his future. The Parisian club is apparently willing to meet Borussia Dortmund&#39;s demand for 70 million GBP for the striker.&nbsp;

The speedy striker, who is also on Manchester City target, spoke with sports director Patrick Kluivert to discuss his wages.

Diego Costa

On to Hazard&#39;s teammate. AS is of the opinion that the Chelsea striker has already packed his bags for China.

Apparently,&nbsp;Tianjin Quanjian have already forged a deal with the Spanish international, which will see him get a cool 30 million GBP a year.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-transfer-news-mbappe-on-city-psg-radar-de-geas-madrid-saga-15189">Read: More transfer news</a>

Alexis Sanchez

Look away if you are an Arsenal fan.

Bayern Munich are apparently working hard to get the Chilean forward to Germany, according to Daily Mirror.

The Bavarian giants are looking at players who can replace Frank Ribbery and Arjen Robben on the wings, and they believe that Sanchez would fit the bill.

Willian

The winger may be offloaded by Chelsea boss Antonio Conte this summer, according to several British tabloids.

Willian, who had a great 2015-16 season, has seen himself&nbsp;getting relegated to the bench this season, primarily owing to Pedro&#39;s arrival.

Chelsea believe they can recoup around $40 million GBP if they sell the winger and help augment their transfer war chest.

Willian has always been in Jose Mourinho&#39;s good books and there have been some reports indicating that the current Manchester United boss might be interested in luring him to Old Trafford.

Arsene Wenger

The under-fire Arsenal boss remains tight-lipped about his future, though he had earlier said he would disclose his future plans by April-end.

But there will be ramifications if the Frenchman does leave the club after 21 years of service.

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud will decide on his future depending on Wenger&#39;s decision. The striker&#39;s agent said he would stay if Wenger remained at the club.

Kylian Mbappe

Several reports, including Guardian, had reported that Manchester United&#39;s 72 million GBP bid had been declined by the french club.

But Sky believes that the bid has not been turned down yet.

Reports in France say that Monaco is keen to hold on to the precocious teenager for another year.&nbsp;

(WION)

&nbsp;

Other rumours doing the rounds involve Willian, Aubameyang, Wenger and Diego Costa

Another hectic day of transfer news across Europe as clubs, agents and players set the ball rolling for another hectic day of backchannel negotiations. Antoine Griezmann Manchester United is in the inside lane to land the coveted French international, but their pursuit may not be all that easy anymore as Chelsea seem to be interested in him as well. The London-based club are interested in the Atletico Madrid forward, according to The Daily Telegraph. Although there are reports of Griezmann agreeing on personal terms with United, the deal may still collapse if the Red Devils fail to reach the Champions League. Atletico have already slapped a 100 million euros (84 million GBP) release clause for clubs to lure the 25-year-old player. A Sky report suggests that there are four more clubs in the running to secure the Frenchman's signature. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Bild believes that the African Player of the Year met PSG officials in Paris on Wednesday to discuss his future. The Parisian club is apparently willing to meet Borussia Dortmund's demand for 70 million GBP for the striker. The speedy striker, who is also on Manchester City target, spoke with sports director Patrick Kluivert to discuss his wages. Diego Costa On to Hazard's teammate. AS is of the opinion that the Chelsea striker has already packed his bags for China. Apparently, Tianjin Quanjian have already forged a deal with the Spanish international, which will see him get a cool 30 million GBP a year. Read: More transfer news Alexis Sanchez Look away if you are an Arsenal fan. Bayern Munich are apparently working hard to get the Chilean forward to Germany, according to Daily Mirror. The Bavarian giants are looking at players who can replace Frank Ribbery and Arjen Robben on the wings, and they believe that Sanchez would fit the bill. Willian The winger may be offloaded by Chelsea boss Antonio Conte this summer, according to several British tabloids. Willian, who had a great 2015-16 season, has seen himself getting relegated to the bench this season, primarily owing to Pedro's arrival. Chelsea believe they can recoup around $40 million GBP if they sell the winger and help augment their transfer war chest. Willian has always been in Jose Mourinho's good books and there have been some reports indicating that the current Manchester United boss might be interested in luring him to Old Trafford. Arsene Wenger The under-fire Arsenal boss remains tight-lipped about his future, though he had earlier said he would disclose his future plans by April-end. But there will be ramifications if the Frenchman does leave the club after 21 years of service. Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud will decide on his future depending on Wenger's decision. The striker's agent said he would stay if Wenger remained at the club. Kylian Mbappe Several reports, including Guardian, had reported that Manchester United's 72 million GBP bid had been declined by the french club. But Sky believes that the bid has not been turned down yet. Reports in France say that Monaco is keen to hold on to the precocious teenager for another year. (WION)

Football transfers: Bayern eye Sanchez, United look to Griezmann

Bayern Munich were crowned Bundesliga champions for the fifth straight season on Saturday after Robert Lewandowski scored twice in a 6-0 thrashing of 10-man Wolfsburg. 
 
After second-placed RB Leipzig were held to a goalless draw by Ingolstadt, Bayern wrapped up the title with a thumping away victory that left them 10 points clear with three games left. 
 
&quot;Five times in a row, that&#39;s unbelievable. We completely deserve to be champions,&quot; Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told Sky. 
 
Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a 27th league title in his first season as Bayern&#39;s head coach. 
 
&quot;I am very happy, this win was important and it&#39;s a fantastic experience,&quot; said the Italian. 
 
Ancelotti has now won four national league titles after also lifting the Premier League with Chelsea, Serie A with AC Milan and Ligue 1 with Paris Saint Germain. 
 
&quot;I want to thank this great club,&quot; he said. &quot;We deserved the title and have played good football, now is the time to celebrate.&quot; 
 
Lewandowski&#39;s brace leaves the Polish predator on 28 goals this season, one more than Borussia Dortmund&#39;s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the race to be the league&#39;s top marksman. 
 
The league triumph is consolation for Wednesday&#39;s 3-2 German Cup semi-final defeat at home to Dortmund, which denied Ancelotti the chance of emulating predecessor Pep Guardiola with the domestic double in his first&nbsp;season.&nbsp;It&nbsp;also goes a small way towards making up for the disappointment of going out in the quarter-finals of the Champions League to Real Madrid. 
 
Bayern were barely made to work for their win as David Alaba drilled home a trademark free-kick on 19 minutes to put the visitors 1-0 up after a foul on Thomas Mueller. 
 
Lewandowski doubled the lead on 36 minutes when Kingsley Coman`s cross was flicked on by Mueller and the Poland hot-shot fired home. 
 
He bagged his second and Bayern`s third just before the half-time whistle after Coman delivered another cross from the left wing. 
 
The floodgates opened late on as Arjen Robben netted on 66 minutes before Wolfsburg`s Luiz Gustavo, a former Bayern player, was sent off for a second booking on 78 minutes. 
 
Bayern exploited their numerical advantage as Mueller banged home Lewandowski&#39;s pass before Joshua Kimmich sealed the rout.Bayern&#39;s latest comfortable title win was made possible by Leipzig&#39;s draw at the Red Bull Arena, where Ingolstadt defender Alfredo Morales was sent off with four minutes to play. 
 
Dortmund, who face Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Cup final on May 27, hold on to third place, which would mean a direct Champions League place next season, despite their goalless draw at home to Cologne. 
 
Both Aubameyang and Cologne`s Anthony Modeste, who has 23 league goals, drew blanks at Signal Iduna Park.&nbsp; 
 
Hoffenheim, coached by Julian Nagelsmann, 29, the youngest coach in Bundesliga history, can leapfrog Dortmund if they beat Eintracht in Frankfurt on Sunday. 
 
Werder Bremen`s remarkable finish to the season continues as they earned a 2-0 win to home to Hertha Berlin to stay sixth. 
 
Bremen remain on course for a Europa League place having risen from bottom in September after losing their first four games. 
 
Werder striker Max Kruse`s dream April continued as he netted Bremen`s second after Fin Bartels`s opener for his eighth goal in six games this month. 
 
Bremen are unbeaten in their last 11 games. 
 
Mainz remain just a point from the bottom three after Japan striker Yoshinori Muto scored their consolation goal in a 2-1 home defeat. Lars Stindl and Nico Schulz scored for Borussia Moenchengladbach. 
 
Plucky bottom side Darmstadt again delayed their relegation with a 3-0 win at home to Freiburg. 
 
Torsten Frings-coached Darmstadt picked up their third straight victory thanks to goals by Felix Platte, Jerome Gondorf and Sven Schipplock. 
 
Darmstadt are still eight points from safety with three games left. 
 
(AFP)

Robert Lewandowski scored twice in a 6-0 thrashing of 10-man Wolfsburg

Bayern Munich were crowned Bundesliga champions for the fifth straight season on Saturday after Robert Lewandowski scored twice in a 6-0 thrashing of 10-man Wolfsburg. After second-placed RB Leipzig were held to a goalless draw by Ingolstadt, Bayern wrapped up the title with a thumping away victory that left them 10 points clear with three games left. "Five times in a row, that's unbelievable. We completely deserve to be champions," Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told Sky. Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a 27th league title in his first season as Bayern's head coach. "I am very happy, this win was important and it's a fantastic experience," said the Italian. Ancelotti has now won four national league titles after also lifting the Premier League with Chelsea, Serie A with AC Milan and Ligue 1 with Paris Saint Germain. "I want to thank this great club," he said. "We deserved the title and have played good football, now is the time to celebrate." Lewandowski's brace leaves the Polish predator on 28 goals this season, one more than Borussia Dortmund's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the race to be the league's top marksman. The league triumph is consolation for Wednesday's 3-2 German Cup semi-final defeat at home to Dortmund, which denied Ancelotti the chance of emulating predecessor Pep Guardiola with the domestic double in his first season. It also goes a small way towards making up for the disappointment of going out in the quarter-finals of the Champions League to Real Madrid. Bayern were barely made to work for their win as David Alaba drilled home a trademark free-kick on 19 minutes to put the visitors 1-0 up after a foul on Thomas Mueller. Lewandowski doubled the lead on 36 minutes when Kingsley Coman`s cross was flicked on by Mueller and the Poland hot-shot fired home. He bagged his second and Bayern`s third just before the half-time whistle after Coman delivered another cross from the left wing. The floodgates opened late on as Arjen Robben netted on 66 minutes before Wolfsburg`s Luiz Gustavo, a former Bayern player, was sent off for a second booking on 78 minutes. Bayern exploited their numerical advantage as Mueller banged home Lewandowski's pass before Joshua Kimmich sealed the rout.Bayern's latest comfortable title win was made possible by Leipzig's draw at the Red Bull Arena, where Ingolstadt defender Alfredo Morales was sent off with four minutes to play. Dortmund, who face Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Cup final on May 27, hold on to third place, which would mean a direct Champions League place next season, despite their goalless draw at home to Cologne. Both Aubameyang and Cologne`s Anthony Modeste, who has 23 league goals, drew blanks at Signal Iduna Park. Hoffenheim, coached by Julian Nagelsmann, 29, the youngest coach in Bundesliga history, can leapfrog Dortmund if they beat Eintracht in Frankfurt on Sunday. Werder Bremen`s remarkable finish to the season continues as they earned a 2-0 win to home to Hertha Berlin to stay sixth. Bremen remain on course for a Europa League place having risen from bottom in September after losing their first four games. Werder striker Max Kruse`s dream April continued as he netted Bremen`s second after Fin Bartels`s opener for his eighth goal in six games this month. Bremen are unbeaten in their last 11 games. Mainz remain just a point from the bottom three after Japan striker Yoshinori Muto scored their consolation goal in a 2-1 home defeat. Lars Stindl and Nico Schulz scored for Borussia Moenchengladbach. Plucky bottom side Darmstadt again delayed their relegation with a 3-0 win at home to Freiburg. Torsten Frings-coached Darmstadt picked up their third straight victory thanks to goals by Felix Platte, Jerome Gondorf and Sven Schipplock. Darmstadt are still eight points from safety with three games left. (AFP)

Bayern Munich win fifth consecutive German title

Borussia Dortmund fought back to defeat bitter rivals Bayern Munich 3-2 on Wednesday to reach the German Cup final and shatter the Bavarian giants&#39; dreams of the double.

A brilliant strike from Ousmane Dembele 15 minutes from the end settled a tie at Munich&#39;s Allianz Arena which had seen Dortmund trail 2-1 at half-time.

It was a dramatic turn-around for Thomas Tuchel&#39;s Dortmund who were hammered 4-1 by runaway leaders Bayern in Munich in the Bundesliga just three weeks ago.

&quot;We came from 2-1 down and still won - that&#39;s crazy,&quot; beamed Tuchel.

&quot;We had completely written off our 4-1 defeat in the league. We played well for 20 minutes and then we let it slip.

&quot;After the break, we kept improving and improving, from the 60th minute we were very good. We certainly had a bit of luck too.&quot;

In a repeat of last year&#39;s final at Berlin&#39;s Olympic Stadium, which Bayern won in a penalty shoot-out, Marco Reus put Dortmund ahead after 19 minutes following a mistake by Munich&#39;s Javi Martinez.

The Spanish international&#39;s lazy back pass was snapped up by Dortmund midfielder Raphael Guerreiro, whose snot hit the post and Reus drilled the rebound.

Martinez made amends by equalising with a header nine minutes later before Mats Hummels put Bayern 2-1 ahead at half-time.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang made it 2-2 on 69 minutes when he headed home a superb Dembele cross.

That paved the way for the French teenager to hit the winner with a curling left-foot shot.

Dortmund will play in a fourth consecutive final on May 27, when they face Eintracht Frankfurt, who reached the final on Tuesday with a penalty shoot-out win over Borussia Moenchengladbach.

The cup defeat in Munich leaves Bayern winless in their last five games following back-to-back defeats to Real Madrid which saw them crash out of the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Carlo Ancelotti&#39;s Bayern are eight points clear in the Bundesliga with four games left, but their dreams of winning the double came a cropper at the hands of Dortmund.&nbsp;

(AFP)

Borussia Dortmund will meet Eintracht Frankfurt in the final

Borussia Dortmund fought back to defeat bitter rivals Bayern Munich 3-2 on Wednesday to reach the German Cup final and shatter the Bavarian giants' dreams of the double. A brilliant strike from Ousmane Dembele 15 minutes from the end settled a tie at Munich's Allianz Arena which had seen Dortmund trail 2-1 at half-time. It was a dramatic turn-around for Thomas Tuchel's Dortmund who were hammered 4-1 by runaway leaders Bayern in Munich in the Bundesliga just three weeks ago. "We came from 2-1 down and still won - that's crazy," beamed Tuchel. "We had completely written off our 4-1 defeat in the league. We played well for 20 minutes and then we let it slip. "After the break, we kept improving and improving, from the 60th minute we were very good. We certainly had a bit of luck too." In a repeat of last year's final at Berlin's Olympic Stadium, which Bayern won in a penalty shoot-out, Marco Reus put Dortmund ahead after 19 minutes following a mistake by Munich's Javi Martinez. The Spanish international's lazy back pass was snapped up by Dortmund midfielder Raphael Guerreiro, whose snot hit the post and Reus drilled the rebound. Martinez made amends by equalising with a header nine minutes later before Mats Hummels put Bayern 2-1 ahead at half-time. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang made it 2-2 on 69 minutes when he headed home a superb Dembele cross. That paved the way for the French teenager to hit the winner with a curling left-foot shot. Dortmund will play in a fourth consecutive final on May 27, when they face Eintracht Frankfurt, who reached the final on Tuesday with a penalty shoot-out win over Borussia Moenchengladbach. The cup defeat in Munich leaves Bayern winless in their last five games following back-to-back defeats to Real Madrid which saw them crash out of the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Carlo Ancelotti's Bayern are eight points clear in the Bundesliga with four games left, but their dreams of winning the double came a cropper at the hands of Dortmund. (AFP)

German Cup: Dortmund stage fightback to overcome Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich left the Santiago Bernabeu furious with referee Viktor Kassai and his team of assistants after being knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid on Tuesday.

Real Madrid won 4-2 after extra-time to advance with a 6-3 aggregate success but Cristiano Ronaldo was offside for two of his three goals and a harsh dismissal for Arturo Vidal left a fuming Bayern with 10 men.

Chile midfielder Vidal was shown a second yellow card by Kassai in the 84th minute for what appeared a clean challenge on Marco Asensio, tilting the game in Madrid&#39;s favour as they entered extra-time trailing 2-1.

Ronaldo scored the next goal in the 105th minute from a clear offside position, and then sent Madrid 3-2 up on the night when fractionally offside.

&ldquo;When they rob a game from you like that, it&rsquo;s very tough. This error can&rsquo;t happen in the Champions League,&rdquo; said Vidal.

&ldquo;When it was 2-1 they got scared and the referee started putting on his show. We played with one less man at home and here, too. The referee put us out of the Champions League.&rdquo;

There were other contentious decisions on the night, including Casemiro avoiding a red card for a late foul on Bayern&#39;s Arjen Robben when already booked and an offside against Robert Lewandowski in the second half when the Polish striker was well placed.

&quot;It&rsquo;s very harsh, two offside goals, the red card for Casemiro before mine,&rdquo; said Vidal.

&ldquo;The dressing room is very sad because we really wanted to go through but we have to keep improving and hope these things will not happen again.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re very angry, a game with that much intensity can&rsquo;t be decided by the referee.&quot;

Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Vidal and said in his media conference that the referees needed video help.

&ldquo;Arturo&rsquo;s card was not a card and then two goals for Cristiano were offside,&rdquo; said the Italian.

&ldquo;We are not happy about this. In a quarter-final you have to have a referee with more quality, I think. It&rsquo;s time to introduce videos for the referees.&rdquo;

His Real Madrid counterpart Zinedine Zidane did not want to discuss the refereeing but he claimed Bayern&#39;s second goal could have also been ruled offside.

Lewandowski appeared to be fractionally offside in the buildup to Sergio Ramos&rsquo;s own goal, causing panic in the area before the defender prodded the ball past Keylor Navas.

&ldquo;They have told me their second goal was also offside. It goes both ways, that is football,&rdquo; said Zidane.

&ldquo;More than the second yellow (for Vidal) or the offside goals, the six goals we scored over the two games mean we deserved to go through in the tie.&rdquo;&nbsp;

(Reuters)

Cristiano Ronaldo was offside for two of his three goals and a harsh dismissal for Arturo Vidal left a fuming Bayern with 10 men

Bayern Munich left the Santiago Bernabeu furious with referee Viktor Kassai and his team of assistants after being knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid on Tuesday. Real Madrid won 4-2 after extra-time to advance with a 6-3 aggregate success but Cristiano Ronaldo was offside for two of his three goals and a harsh dismissal for Arturo Vidal left a fuming Bayern with 10 men. Chile midfielder Vidal was shown a second yellow card by Kassai in the 84th minute for what appeared a clean challenge on Marco Asensio, tilting the game in Madrid's favour as they entered extra-time trailing 2-1. Ronaldo scored the next goal in the 105th minute from a clear offside position, and then sent Madrid 3-2 up on the night when fractionally offside. “When they rob a game from you like that, it’s very tough. This error can’t happen in the Champions League,” said Vidal. “When it was 2-1 they got scared and the referee started putting on his show. We played with one less man at home and here, too. The referee put us out of the Champions League.” There were other contentious decisions on the night, including Casemiro avoiding a red card for a late foul on Bayern's Arjen Robben when already booked and an offside against Robert Lewandowski in the second half when the Polish striker was well placed. "It’s very harsh, two offside goals, the red card for Casemiro before mine,” said Vidal. “The dressing room is very sad because we really wanted to go through but we have to keep improving and hope these things will not happen again. “We’re very angry, a game with that much intensity can’t be decided by the referee." Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Vidal and said in his media conference that the referees needed video help. “Arturo’s card was not a card and then two goals for Cristiano were offside,” said the Italian. “We are not happy about this. In a quarter-final you have to have a referee with more quality, I think. It’s time to introduce videos for the referees.” His Real Madrid counterpart Zinedine Zidane did not want to discuss the refereeing but he claimed Bayern's second goal could have also been ruled offside. Lewandowski appeared to be fractionally offside in the buildup to Sergio Ramos’s own goal, causing panic in the area before the defender prodded the ball past Keylor Navas. “They have told me their second goal was also offside. It goes both ways, that is football,” said Zidane. “More than the second yellow (for Vidal) or the offside goals, the six goals we scored over the two games mean we deserved to go through in the tie.” (Reuters)

Bayern left fuming over Champions League 'robbery'

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick to send Real Madrid through to the Champions League semi-finals with a 4-2 extra-time win against 10-man Bayern Munich to seal a 6-3 aggregate victory in controversial circumstances.

A bizarre Sergio Ramos own goal forced the extra period after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring for Bayern from the penalty spot and Ronaldo equalised.

Marcelo twice cleared off the line for Madrid and Jerome Boateng did the same for Bayern in a thrilling game, which was tilted in Madrid&rsquo;s favour by Arturo Vidal&rsquo;s dismissal for two yellow cards, the second of which was harsh.

Ronaldo put Madrid level at 2-2 on the night in the first period of extra time when he scored his 100th Champions League goal, from a clearly offside position, before he wrapped up his treble and Marco Asensio added a fourth.

Carlo Ancelotti&rsquo;s Bayern began well, with Thiago Alcantara&#39;s close-range shot brilliantly blocked on the goal line by Marcelo. Arjen Robben lashed the rebound into the side-netting.

Vidal crashed a strike inches over the crossbar and Real goalkeeper Keylor Navas had to be quick off his line to beat Ribery to a through-ball.

Madrid began to find their feet and were soon dominating, with the effervescent Marcelo crossing for Karim Benzema, who headed wide, and Dani Carvajal also firing an effort just off target.

Ramos nearly put the hosts ahead after the otherwise superb Manuel Neuer spilled a shot, but Jerome Boateng somehow blocked his effort on the line to keep his side in the tie.

Toni Kroos fired over and Ronaldo shot when he should have passed to Benzema as Madrid ended the first half looking far more dangerous than their opponents.

However, it was Bayern who took the lead when Casemiro fouled Robben in the area and Lewandowski sent Navas the wrong way from the spot.

Ronaldo levelled the score, heading beyond Neuer in the 76th minute from a fine cross by Casemiro, but Bayern restored overall parity within a minute.

Ramos, so used to being Madrid&#39;s hero, turned villain when he shinned the ball into his own net after a scramble in the area.

With the game heading towards extra-time Vidal was sent off for a second booking after appearing to win the ball cleanly from Asensio.

It gave Madrid the upper hand going into the added 30 minutes and they took advantage when Ronaldo scored the crucial second from Ramos&#39;s cross, despite being in an offside position.

Madrid added two more late on, leaving Bayern exhausted and angry.

(Reuters)

Ronaldo put Madrid level at 2-2 on the night in the first period of extra time when he scored his 100th Champions League goal

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick to send Real Madrid through to the Champions League semi-finals with a 4-2 extra-time win against 10-man Bayern Munich to seal a 6-3 aggregate victory in controversial circumstances. A bizarre Sergio Ramos own goal forced the extra period after Robert Lewandowski opened the scoring for Bayern from the penalty spot and Ronaldo equalised. Marcelo twice cleared off the line for Madrid and Jerome Boateng did the same for Bayern in a thrilling game, which was tilted in Madrid’s favour by Arturo Vidal’s dismissal for two yellow cards, the second of which was harsh. Ronaldo put Madrid level at 2-2 on the night in the first period of extra time when he scored his 100th Champions League goal, from a clearly offside position, before he wrapped up his treble and Marco Asensio added a fourth. Carlo Ancelotti’s Bayern began well, with Thiago Alcantara's close-range shot brilliantly blocked on the goal line by Marcelo. Arjen Robben lashed the rebound into the side-netting. Vidal crashed a strike inches over the crossbar and Real goalkeeper Keylor Navas had to be quick off his line to beat Ribery to a through-ball. Madrid began to find their feet and were soon dominating, with the effervescent Marcelo crossing for Karim Benzema, who headed wide, and Dani Carvajal also firing an effort just off target. Ramos nearly put the hosts ahead after the otherwise superb Manuel Neuer spilled a shot, but Jerome Boateng somehow blocked his effort on the line to keep his side in the tie. Toni Kroos fired over and Ronaldo shot when he should have passed to Benzema as Madrid ended the first half looking far more dangerous than their opponents. However, it was Bayern who took the lead when Casemiro fouled Robben in the area and Lewandowski sent Navas the wrong way from the spot. Ronaldo levelled the score, heading beyond Neuer in the 76th minute from a fine cross by Casemiro, but Bayern restored overall parity within a minute. Ramos, so used to being Madrid's hero, turned villain when he shinned the ball into his own net after a scramble in the area. With the game heading towards extra-time Vidal was sent off for a second booking after appearing to win the ball cleanly from Asensio. It gave Madrid the upper hand going into the added 30 minutes and they took advantage when Ronaldo scored the crucial second from Ramos's cross, despite being in an offside position. Madrid added two more late on, leaving Bayern exhausted and angry. (Reuters)

Real beat Bayern 4-2 (agg 6-3) to reach Champions League semi-final

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leipzig suffer title setback after draw at Augsburg

Bayern Munich crushed Arsenal 5-1 in their Champions League round of 16 first leg on Wednesday, scoring three goals in a dazzling 10-minute spell in the second half to extend their record to 16 consecutive home wins in the competition.

Thiago Alcantara struck twice and Robert Lewandowski, Arjen Robben and substitute Thomas Mueller were also on target as the Bavarians, struggling for form recently, inflicted Arsenal&#39;s first defeat of the season in Europe&#39;s premier club competition.

Alexis Sanchez had equalised for the visitors, scoring on the rebound after Manuel Neuer saved his 30th-minute penalty. 
The sides meet for the second leg in London on March 7.

Bayern, who knocked out Arsenal at this stage of the competition in 2005, 2013 and 2014, got off to a perfect start.

Robben was left with far too much space and the Dutchman did not hesitate, advancing with his trademark move down the right before curling an unstoppable left-foot shot into the top corner of David Ospina`s goal.&nbsp;

Arsenal were briefly rattled by the early goal but almost levelled when Neuer spilled Mesut Ozil`s free kick.

They did better three minutes later when they were awarded a penalty for a handball by Lewandowski.

Neuer saved Sanchez&#39; spot-kick but the Chilean sneaked in among three Bayern players to lash the ball home from close range.

The game looked to have lost its pace early in the second half before Bayern suddenly stepped on the gas to fire three goals past the English side.

Philipp Lahm floated a perfect cross into the box and Lewandowski rose high above defender Shkodran Mustafi to drill in a header in the 53rd minute.

The Poland striker set up Thiago with a perfect flick for Bayern`s third goal three minutes later and the Spaniard grabbed his second with a low drive.

The English team have lost in the last 16 in each of last six seasons and Bayern missed several chances before Mueller struck two minutes from time as the German champions took a huge step towards a sixth successive quarter-final appearance.

(Reuters)

The hosts inflicted Arsenal's first defeat of the season in Europe's premier club competition

Bayern Munich crushed Arsenal 5-1 in their Champions League round of 16 first leg on Wednesday, scoring three goals in a dazzling 10-minute spell in the second half to extend their record to 16 consecutive home wins in the competition. Thiago Alcantara struck twice and Robert Lewandowski, Arjen Robben and substitute Thomas Mueller were also on target as the Bavarians, struggling for form recently, inflicted Arsenal's first defeat of the season in Europe's premier club competition. Alexis Sanchez had equalised for the visitors, scoring on the rebound after Manuel Neuer saved his 30th-minute penalty. The sides meet for the second leg in London on March 7. Bayern, who knocked out Arsenal at this stage of the competition in 2005, 2013 and 2014, got off to a perfect start. Robben was left with far too much space and the Dutchman did not hesitate, advancing with his trademark move down the right before curling an unstoppable left-foot shot into the top corner of David Ospina`s goal. Arsenal were briefly rattled by the early goal but almost levelled when Neuer spilled Mesut Ozil`s free kick. They did better three minutes later when they were awarded a penalty for a handball by Lewandowski. Neuer saved Sanchez' spot-kick but the Chilean sneaked in among three Bayern players to lash the ball home from close range. The game looked to have lost its pace early in the second half before Bayern suddenly stepped on the gas to fire three goals past the English side. Philipp Lahm floated a perfect cross into the box and Lewandowski rose high above defender Shkodran Mustafi to drill in a header in the 53rd minute. The Poland striker set up Thiago with a perfect flick for Bayern`s third goal three minutes later and the Spaniard grabbed his second with a low drive. The English team have lost in the last 16 in each of last six seasons and Bayern missed several chances before Mueller struck two minutes from time as the German champions took a huge step towards a sixth successive quarter-final appearance. (Reuters)

Champions League: Bayern Munich thrash Arsenal 5-1

Bayern Munich&#39;s captain Philipp Lahm will retire at the end of the season and leave the Bundesliga leaders having rejected a role as sports director, according to a report.

German magazine Sport Bild says in its Wednesday edition the 33-year-old, who made his 500th appearance for Bayern last Saturday, will hang up his boots in June -- despite having a year left on his contract.

He has apparently also rejected the vacant sports director role because it would not have included a place on Bayern&#39;s board following recent restructuring at the club.

Lahm has reportedly already told Bayern of his decision.

Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had hinted last November that the club wanted Lahm to fill the role vacated by Matthias Sammer last year.

Borussia Moenchengladbach&#39;s sports director Max Eberl is now reportedly the favourite to take the job.

Lahm retired from international football after captaining Germany to the 2014 World Cup title in Brazil.

He joined Bayern as an 11-year-old in 1995 and skippered the Bavarian giants to their 2013 Champions League win at Wembley.

That season, they became the first German club to complete the treble of Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup.

He has won the Bundesliga seven times and the German Cup on a further six occasions.

(AFP)

He will leave the Bundesliga leaders having rejected a role as sports director, according to Sport Bild

Bayern Munich's captain Philipp Lahm will retire at the end of the season and leave the Bundesliga leaders having rejected a role as sports director, according to a report. German magazine Sport Bild says in its Wednesday edition the 33-year-old, who made his 500th appearance for Bayern last Saturday, will hang up his boots in June -- despite having a year left on his contract. He has apparently also rejected the vacant sports director role because it would not have included a place on Bayern's board following recent restructuring at the club. Lahm has reportedly already told Bayern of his decision. Chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had hinted last November that the club wanted Lahm to fill the role vacated by Matthias Sammer last year. Borussia Moenchengladbach's sports director Max Eberl is now reportedly the favourite to take the job. Lahm retired from international football after captaining Germany to the 2014 World Cup title in Brazil. He joined Bayern as an 11-year-old in 1995 and skippered the Bavarian giants to their 2013 Champions League win at Wembley. That season, they became the first German club to complete the treble of Champions League, Bundesliga and German Cup. He has won the Bundesliga seven times and the German Cup on a further six occasions. (AFP)

Bayern Munich captain Philipp Lahm to retire in June

Flu-hit RB Leipzig failed to capitalise on Bayern Munich&#39;s draw against Schalke as they lost to Borussia Dortmund 1-0 on Saturday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang&#39;s 17th goal of the season -- two more than Bayern&#39;s Lewandowski in the top goal-scorer chart in the Bundesliga -- meant Dortmund shot four places to go third in the Bundesliga standings.

Leipzig&#39;s loss mean at Dortmund that Bayern have now stretched their lead to four points, despite the sluggish performance they put on against Schalke.

Bayern started the match brightly, with their captain Philipp Lahm making his 500th appearance for the club. Bayern took the lead in the ninth minute, thanks to Lewandowski, but were then made to work hard to retain their lead.

But Schalke kept their composure and equalised four minutes later when Naldo hammered a free-kick past Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

It completed the scoring, but both sides squandered clear first-half chances as Schalke striker Guido Burgstaller hit the crossbar, just like Lewandowski did at the other end.

Over in the Leipzig-Dortmund match, there was drama in added time as Leipzig sub Federico Palacios Martinez, making his Bundesliga debut, put the ball in Dortmund&#39;s net, but was flagged for a marginal offside.

Leipzig struggled without top-scorer Timo Werner, midfielder Diego Demme and striker Marcel Sabitzer, who all have flu, while playmaker Emil Forsberg was suspended.

&quot;We won the game, that&#39;s what counts,&quot; a relieved Reus told Sky.

&quot;We put up a good fight, it was a very aggressive game and the win is okay.&quot;

Hertha moved up to fifth with a 1-0 win at home to strugglers Ingolstadt as Japan midfielder Genki Haraguchi scored the winner after just a minute at Berlin&#39;s Olympic Stadium.

Cologne are sixth following their 1-0 win at Wolfsburg thanks to Anthony Modeste&#39;s second-half penalty, having been fouled by Wolves goalkeeper Diego Benaglio in the area.

Borussia Moenchengladbach picked up their second straight win with a 3-0 victory at home to Freiburg courtesy of goals from captain Lars Stindl, striker Raffael and winger Patrick Herrmann to go tenth.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Bayern could only muster a draw against Schalke but Dortmund's 1-0 win over second-placed Leipzig means they are four points clear

Flu-hit RB Leipzig failed to capitalise on Bayern Munich's draw against Schalke as they lost to Borussia Dortmund 1-0 on Saturday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's 17th goal of the season -- two more than Bayern's Lewandowski in the top goal-scorer chart in the Bundesliga -- meant Dortmund shot four places to go third in the Bundesliga standings. Leipzig's loss mean at Dortmund that Bayern have now stretched their lead to four points, despite the sluggish performance they put on against Schalke. Bayern started the match brightly, with their captain Philipp Lahm making his 500th appearance for the club. Bayern took the lead in the ninth minute, thanks to Lewandowski, but were then made to work hard to retain their lead. But Schalke kept their composure and equalised four minutes later when Naldo hammered a free-kick past Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. It completed the scoring, but both sides squandered clear first-half chances as Schalke striker Guido Burgstaller hit the crossbar, just like Lewandowski did at the other end. Over in the Leipzig-Dortmund match, there was drama in added time as Leipzig sub Federico Palacios Martinez, making his Bundesliga debut, put the ball in Dortmund's net, but was flagged for a marginal offside. Leipzig struggled without top-scorer Timo Werner, midfielder Diego Demme and striker Marcel Sabitzer, who all have flu, while playmaker Emil Forsberg was suspended. "We won the game, that's what counts," a relieved Reus told Sky. "We put up a good fight, it was a very aggressive game and the win is okay." Hertha moved up to fifth with a 1-0 win at home to strugglers Ingolstadt as Japan midfielder Genki Haraguchi scored the winner after just a minute at Berlin's Olympic Stadium. Cologne are sixth following their 1-0 win at Wolfsburg thanks to Anthony Modeste's second-half penalty, having been fouled by Wolves goalkeeper Diego Benaglio in the area. Borussia Moenchengladbach picked up their second straight win with a 3-0 victory at home to Freiburg courtesy of goals from captain Lars Stindl, striker Raffael and winger Patrick Herrmann to go tenth. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Bayern Munich sluggish but stretch lead as Leipzig fall to Dortmund

Arsenal will have another chance to beat Bayern Munich in a Champions League knockout tie after the sides were paired yet again in the round of 16 following Monday&#39;s draw.

The teams met at the same stage in 2005, 2013 and 2014 with the German champions winning on all three occasions - 3-2 on aggregate in 2005, on away goals after a 3-3 draw in 2013 and 3-1 in 2014.

Paris St Germain will also try to break a jinx when they face Spanish champions Barcelona, who knocked them out in the quarter-finals in 2013 and 2014.

Holders Real Madrid, who like Bayern finished as runners-up in their group and will therefore play the first leg at home, were given a tricky clash with Serie A side Napoli.

The draw also produced a potential grudge match as it pitted Bayer Leverkusen against Atletico Madrid, whose respective coaches Roger Schmidt and Diego Simeone were involved in an ugly touchline spat when the sides met two seasons ago.

On that occasion, Atletico went through on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw.

Arsenal may feel this could be their best chance to beat Bayern, whose domestic and European form has not been as dominant as in recent seasons.

&quot;We are through to the knockout stage for the 14th consecutive season, which is testament to Arsene Wenger and the teams throughout that time,&quot; club secretary David Miles said.

&quot;The fans will think we have got the rough end of the draw again - at some stage the tide has got to turn and we will beat them.&quot;

Serie A champions Juventus were drawn against Porto in a repeat of the 1984 European Cup Winners&#39; Cup final which the Italian side won 2-1.

Sevilla and English champions Leicester City will meet for the first time as will Manchester City and AS Monaco.

Benfica and Borussia Dortmund will renew their rivalry after a 52-year wait, the sides having previously met in the 1963-64 European Cup.

(Reuters)

Holders Real Madrid were given a difficult tie against Napoli as were Spanish champions Barcelona who take on Paris St Germain

Arsenal will have another chance to beat Bayern Munich in a Champions League knockout tie after the sides were paired yet again in the round of 16 following Monday's draw. The teams met at the same stage in 2005, 2013 and 2014 with the German champions winning on all three occasions - 3-2 on aggregate in 2005, on away goals after a 3-3 draw in 2013 and 3-1 in 2014. Paris St Germain will also try to break a jinx when they face Spanish champions Barcelona, who knocked them out in the quarter-finals in 2013 and 2014. Holders Real Madrid, who like Bayern finished as runners-up in their group and will therefore play the first leg at home, were given a tricky clash with Serie A side Napoli. The draw also produced a potential grudge match as it pitted Bayer Leverkusen against Atletico Madrid, whose respective coaches Roger Schmidt and Diego Simeone were involved in an ugly touchline spat when the sides met two seasons ago. On that occasion, Atletico went through on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw. Arsenal may feel this could be their best chance to beat Bayern, whose domestic and European form has not been as dominant as in recent seasons. "We are through to the knockout stage for the 14th consecutive season, which is testament to Arsene Wenger and the teams throughout that time," club secretary David Miles said. "The fans will think we have got the rough end of the draw again - at some stage the tide has got to turn and we will beat them." Serie A champions Juventus were drawn against Porto in a repeat of the 1984 European Cup Winners' Cup final which the Italian side won 2-1. Sevilla and English champions Leicester City will meet for the first time as will Manchester City and AS Monaco. Benfica and Borussia Dortmund will renew their rivalry after a 52-year wait, the sides having previously met in the 1963-64 European Cup. (Reuters)

Champions League last 16: Arsenal paired with Bayern Munich, City get Monaco

Borussia Dortmund stunned champions and arch-rivals&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;Munich 1-0 on Saturday in a bad-tempered clash in&nbsp;&quot;Der Klassiker&quot; to leave RB Leipzig the shock Bundesliga leaders.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang prodded in on 11 minutes at a frenzied Signal Iduna Park to propel Dortmund up to third on 21 points, three points behind&nbsp;Bayern, for whom this was a first defeat of the league season.

RB Leipzig are top, unbeaten and three points clear of the mighty&nbsp;Bayern, after a thrilling 3-2 win at Bayer Leverkusen on Friday signalled another milestone in their fast rise to the top of German football.

Aubameyang scored the only goal of the game -- he should have gone on to grab at least two more -- poking in the ball from close range after ex-Bayern&nbsp;man Mario Goetze&#39;s cross.

The striker celebrated with three push-ups and the home side were on the attack again moments later, the&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;rearguard creaking as the fans at the intimidating 81,000 arena ratcheted up the volume once more.

The game had simmered to this point, but it threatened to boil over as the half wore on, with Dortmund conceding a series of free-kicks and referee Tobias Stieler struggling to keep a lid on it.

Stieler had a word with Thomas Tuchel after the Dortmund coach protested one challenge and Marc Bartra was booked for a bad challenge on&nbsp;Bayern&#39;s Thomas Mueller.

Soon after Bartra was penalised again for tugging down Robert Lewandowski and was fortunate that Stieler decided to keep his cards in his pocket.

The momentum was now with Carlo Ancelotti&#39;s men and&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;piled on the pressure, Thiago Alcantara just failing to properly connect with a flying scissor kick five minutes before half-time.

Aubameyang should have put the home side 2-0 up soon after the restart, but he headed feebly over, and then Goetze got away with only a yellow card for a nasty challenge on Franck Ribery that left the Frenchman in agony on the turf.

The visitors were a whisker from equalising around the hour mark when Xabi Alonso let fly from distance, the ball crashing off the crossbar.

On 71 minutes Aubameyang should have sealed the game for Dortmund, but he shot straight at Manuel Neuer after a&nbsp;Bayern&nbsp;lapse at the back.

Ribery was in the thick of it again in the dying minutes and was booked when the two sides clashed once more, the referee&#39;s assistants running onto the pitch to help restore order.

Polish predator Lewandowski should have levelled the score at the death but he inexplicably headed wide when clear and unmarked.

(AFP)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang prodded in on 11 minutes at a frenzied Signal Iduna Park to propel Dortmund up to third

Borussia Dortmund stunned champions and arch-rivals Bayern Munich 1-0 on Saturday in a bad-tempered clash in "Der Klassiker" to leave RB Leipzig the shock Bundesliga leaders. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang prodded in on 11 minutes at a frenzied Signal Iduna Park to propel Dortmund up to third on 21 points, three points behind Bayern, for whom this was a first defeat of the league season. RB Leipzig are top, unbeaten and three points clear of the mighty Bayern, after a thrilling 3-2 win at Bayer Leverkusen on Friday signalled another milestone in their fast rise to the top of German football. Aubameyang scored the only goal of the game -- he should have gone on to grab at least two more -- poking in the ball from close range after ex-Bayern man Mario Goetze's cross. The striker celebrated with three push-ups and the home side were on the attack again moments later, the Bayern rearguard creaking as the fans at the intimidating 81,000 arena ratcheted up the volume once more. The game had simmered to this point, but it threatened to boil over as the half wore on, with Dortmund conceding a series of free-kicks and referee Tobias Stieler struggling to keep a lid on it. Stieler had a word with Thomas Tuchel after the Dortmund coach protested one challenge and Marc Bartra was booked for a bad challenge on Bayern's Thomas Mueller. Soon after Bartra was penalised again for tugging down Robert Lewandowski and was fortunate that Stieler decided to keep his cards in his pocket. The momentum was now with Carlo Ancelotti's men and Bayern piled on the pressure, Thiago Alcantara just failing to properly connect with a flying scissor kick five minutes before half-time. Aubameyang should have put the home side 2-0 up soon after the restart, but he headed feebly over, and then Goetze got away with only a yellow card for a nasty challenge on Franck Ribery that left the Frenchman in agony on the turf. The visitors were a whisker from equalising around the hour mark when Xabi Alonso let fly from distance, the ball crashing off the crossbar. On 71 minutes Aubameyang should have sealed the game for Dortmund, but he shot straight at Manuel Neuer after a Bayern lapse at the back. Ribery was in the thick of it again in the dying minutes and was booked when the two sides clashed once more, the referee's assistants running onto the pitch to help restore order. Polish predator Lewandowski should have levelled the score at the death but he inexplicably headed wide when clear and unmarked. (AFP)

Dortmund beat Bayern 1-0 to leave new boys Leipzig new league leaders

RB Leipzig continued their fairytale run by coming from behind to win against Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 and keep the pressure on giants Bayern Munich.

The Bundesliga new boys were 2-1 down and had to save a penalty after that to remain in hunt, which they did superbly to score two goals in 14 minutes to maintain their 11-match unbeaten run.

Leipzig&#39;s win takes them three points clear of Bayern Munich, who will now have to beat a tough Borussia Dortmund on their own turf to regain the top ranking in the German first division.

&quot;From a psychological point of view we really did very well in the second-half when we were behind twice,&quot; said Leipzig coach Ralph Hasenhuettl.

After exchanging goals in the first four minutes -- Leverkusen&#39;s Kevin Kampl scoring after a minute before teammate Julian Baumgartlinger&#39;s own goal drew Leipzig level -- Leverkusen&#39;s German international winger Julian Brandt put the hosts ahead again just before half-time.

The turning point came when Brandt earned a penalty on 54 minutes only for Hakan Calhanoglu&#39;s shot to be cleared by Leipzig goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi.

Swedish international Emil Forsberg equalised for Leipzig following an impressive solo run on 67 minutes and defender Willi Orban headed in the winner on 81 minutes for the Bundesliga upstarts.

Leipzig earned their place in Germany&#39;s top flight with four promotions in seven years and have now set a Bundesliga record run for a newly promoted club by going 11 games unbeaten.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Leipzig's pulsating comeback win at Leverkusen means Bayern Munich would have to beat Dortmund to regain the top spot

RB Leipzig continued their fairytale run by coming from behind to win against Bayer Leverkusen 3-2 and keep the pressure on giants Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga new boys were 2-1 down and had to save a penalty after that to remain in hunt, which they did superbly to score two goals in 14 minutes to maintain their 11-match unbeaten run. Leipzig's win takes them three points clear of Bayern Munich, who will now have to beat a tough Borussia Dortmund on their own turf to regain the top ranking in the German first division. "From a psychological point of view we really did very well in the second-half when we were behind twice," said Leipzig coach Ralph Hasenhuettl. After exchanging goals in the first four minutes -- Leverkusen's Kevin Kampl scoring after a minute before teammate Julian Baumgartlinger's own goal drew Leipzig level -- Leverkusen's German international winger Julian Brandt put the hosts ahead again just before half-time. The turning point came when Brandt earned a penalty on 54 minutes only for Hakan Calhanoglu's shot to be cleared by Leipzig goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi. Swedish international Emil Forsberg equalised for Leipzig following an impressive solo run on 67 minutes and defender Willi Orban headed in the winner on 81 minutes for the Bundesliga upstarts. Leipzig earned their place in Germany's top flight with four promotions in seven years and have now set a Bundesliga record run for a newly promoted club by going 11 games unbeaten. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Modest Leipzig beat Leverkusen 3-2, topple Bayern to top Bundesliga standings

Borussia Moenchengladbach have accused Bundesliga bosses of favouritism towards Bayern Munich as they face a successive Friday night match, three days after a mid-week game in Europe.

Gladbach were held to a 1-1 draw home to Celtic in the Champions League on Tuesday and play Hertha Berlin away in a key Bundesliga match on Friday.

It is the second time in quick succession Gladbach have been given a short turn-around by the German Football League (DFL) after they drew 0-0 with Frankfurt last Friday, three days after a German Cup win home to Stuttgart.

Borussia, 11th in Germany&#39;s top flight, are struggling for form and are winless in their last four German league games.

&quot;I have to say, what were the league thinking giving a Champions League side a game directly on a Friday?&quot; Max Eberl, Gladbach&#39;s director of sport, asked magazine Kicker.

&quot;That would never happen to Bayern Munich. I have never heard of Bayern playing on a Friday after a Champions League game.

&quot;They always play on Saturdays and Sundays. Borussia Moenchengladbach must now run out at Hertha Berlin. I find that extremely unfortunate.&quot;

Following their Champions League draw Gladbach remain third in Group C, three points behind Manchester City, who they host in three weeks&#39; time in a must-win clash.

Eberl is realistic about his side&#39;s chances of progressing to the knock-out stages with Pep Guardiola&#39;s City and Barcelona in pole position to reach the last 16.

But the Germans are still mathematically in contention and third at least carries automatic qualification for the Europa League, if it comes to that.

&quot;We still have matters in our own hands and can go into the winter break (in January) in the Europa League,&quot; said Eberl.

&quot;Bold fans have dreamt of &#39;a final&#39; against Manchester City, but that was not in our heads against Celtic.&quot;

(AFP)

Gladbach were held to a 1-1 draw home to Celtic in the Champions League on Tuesday and play Hertha Berlin on Friday

Borussia Moenchengladbach have accused Bundesliga bosses of favouritism towards Bayern Munich as they face a successive Friday night match, three days after a mid-week game in Europe. Gladbach were held to a 1-1 draw home to Celtic in the Champions League on Tuesday and play Hertha Berlin away in a key Bundesliga match on Friday. It is the second time in quick succession Gladbach have been given a short turn-around by the German Football League (DFL) after they drew 0-0 with Frankfurt last Friday, three days after a German Cup win home to Stuttgart. Borussia, 11th in Germany's top flight, are struggling for form and are winless in their last four German league games. "I have to say, what were the league thinking giving a Champions League side a game directly on a Friday?" Max Eberl, Gladbach's director of sport, asked magazine Kicker. "That would never happen to Bayern Munich. I have never heard of Bayern playing on a Friday after a Champions League game. "They always play on Saturdays and Sundays. Borussia Moenchengladbach must now run out at Hertha Berlin. I find that extremely unfortunate." Following their Champions League draw Gladbach remain third in Group C, three points behind Manchester City, who they host in three weeks' time in a must-win clash. Eberl is realistic about his side's chances of progressing to the knock-out stages with Pep Guardiola's City and Barcelona in pole position to reach the last 16. But the Germans are still mathematically in contention and third at least carries automatic qualification for the Europa League, if it comes to that. "We still have matters in our own hands and can go into the winter break (in January) in the Europa League," said Eberl. "Bold fans have dreamt of 'a final' against Manchester City, but that was not in our heads against Celtic." (AFP)

'Wouldn't happen to Bayern', fumes Gladbach boss

Defeating all odds, an 11-year-old football player from Odisha&#39;s Sabar Sahi slum has made the country proud by making his way to Germany&#39;s Bayern Munich Club. 
 
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PVceV-lv_o4?list=PLmWa9ZZLlCjt0Jlg7kN3JBNX4LH1sRsGh" width="970"></iframe> &nbsp; 
 
The young football genius, Chandan Nayak, has been chosen to travel to Munich to get a two-month training at the reputed club. Nayak, who hails from an extremely underprivileged family, will stay there as an academy player in an all-expenses-paid junior football camp. 
 
Bayern Munich is a German sports club based in Munich, Bavaria, best known for its professional football team, which plays in the Bundesliga. It is the most successful club in German football history, having won a record 26 national titles and 18 national cups.

Nayak will stay there as an academy player in an all-expenses-paid junior football camp

Defeating all odds, an 11-year-old football player from Odisha's Sabar Sahi slum has made the country proud by making his way to Germany's Bayern Munich Club. The young football genius, Chandan Nayak, has been chosen to travel to Munich to get a two-month training at the reputed club. Nayak, who hails from an extremely underprivileged family, will stay there as an academy player in an all-expenses-paid junior football camp. Bayern Munich is a German sports club based in Munich, Bavaria, best known for its professional football team, which plays in the Bundesliga. It is the most successful club in German football history, having won a record 26 national titles and 18 national cups.

Video: An Indian village boy makes it to Germany's top football club

Bayern Munich broke their three-game winless streak with an emphatic 4-1 win at home to PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday in the Champions League with winger Arjen Robben outstanding.

Thomas Mueller and Joshua Kimmich put Bayern ahead at the Allianz Arena before Luciano Narsingh netted for Eindhoven before the break, but Robert Lewandowski made it 3-1 on the hour mark.

Robben, who created two goals, capped an eye-catching display with a fourth goal as Bayern got their Group D campaign back on track after their 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid three weeks ago.

&quot;We started well and created good chances to go 2-0, we weren&#39;t that dominant and we had to be careful at the back. They showed what they can do on the counter,&quot; said Robben.

&quot;We dominated in the second and deserved the high win.&quot;

After talk from the German media of a &#39;mini-crisis&#39;, following three games without a win in all competitions, this was the result and performance Bayern needed.

But the German league leaders were aided and abetted by an Eindhoven defence which left acres of space to exploit, especially early on, allowing Bayern 28 shots on goal, while the Dutch managed only eight in reply.

Robben, 32, scored his first header in the Champions League, but credited the goal to Thiago Alcantara&#39;s superb chip.

&quot;It was nice to get the header, but it was down to the beatiful pass from Thiago, he deserves the credit,&quot; said Robben.

Bayern remain second in Group D, three points behind leaders Atletico, who won 1-0 at Rostov, while Eindhoven are third with a single point.

Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti had hinted at changes from the side which drew 2-2 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, a Bundesliga performance chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had branded &quot;unacceptable&quot;.

Lewandowski was the only change to the starting line-up in a 4-3-3 formation as Mueller switched to the wing and Kingsley Coman dropping to the bench.

Eindhoven coach Phillip Cocu made two changes from their 1-1 Dutch league draw with Heracles Almelo as Netherlands striker Narsingh and Mexico winger Andres Guardado returned.

Bayern needed just 12 minutes to take the lead thanks to quick thinking from Mueller and Robben, who fired in a short pass from a corner.

Eindhoven goalkeeper Jeroen Zoet parried Mueller&#39;s shot, but the Germany international snapped up the rebound and slotted home off his right foot.

&quot;It&#39;s my eighth season playing with Thomas,&quot; explained Robben.

&quot;I often know what he&#39;s going to do, and we work on things like that in training and we used the chance well.&quot;

Bayern exploited the space Eindhoven generously gave them at the back.

David Alaba&#39;s cross clipped a defender, but Kimmich tracked the looping ball to header over the line on 21 minutes for his seventh goal in eight games.

Eindhoven then tightened their defence and started to attack.

Uruguay winger Gaston Pereiro had the ball in the Munich net on their first meaningful attack on 39 minutes, but the goal was incorrectly ruled off side.

The Dutch clawed one back two minutes later when Narsingh&#39;s superb shot from outside the area crashed in off the post to the annoyance of Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to make it 2-1 at the break.

Lewandowski fired wide in the first two minutes after the break, but only Neuer&#39;s reflex save denied Pereiro at the other end.

Just as PSV were gaining momentum, Bayern extended their lead.

Robben beat two defenders before Zoet parried his shot before Lewandowski headed in the rebound on 59 minutes.

Zoet&#39;s saves, to deny Alaba and Mueller, kept the score respectable before Thiago Alcantara&#39;s chip saw Robben nudge the ball over the Eindhoven keeper on 84 minutes. 
 
(AFP)

Bayern remain second in Group D, three points behind Atletico, while Eindhoven are third with a single point

Bayern Munich broke their three-game winless streak with an emphatic 4-1 win at home to PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday in the Champions League with winger Arjen Robben outstanding. Thomas Mueller and Joshua Kimmich put Bayern ahead at the Allianz Arena before Luciano Narsingh netted for Eindhoven before the break, but Robert Lewandowski made it 3-1 on the hour mark. Robben, who created two goals, capped an eye-catching display with a fourth goal as Bayern got their Group D campaign back on track after their 1-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid three weeks ago. "We started well and created good chances to go 2-0, we weren't that dominant and we had to be careful at the back. They showed what they can do on the counter," said Robben. "We dominated in the second and deserved the high win." After talk from the German media of a 'mini-crisis', following three games without a win in all competitions, this was the result and performance Bayern needed. But the German league leaders were aided and abetted by an Eindhoven defence which left acres of space to exploit, especially early on, allowing Bayern 28 shots on goal, while the Dutch managed only eight in reply. Robben, 32, scored his first header in the Champions League, but credited the goal to Thiago Alcantara's superb chip. "It was nice to get the header, but it was down to the beatiful pass from Thiago, he deserves the credit," said Robben. Bayern remain second in Group D, three points behind leaders Atletico, who won 1-0 at Rostov, while Eindhoven are third with a single point. Bayern coach Carlo Ancelotti had hinted at changes from the side which drew 2-2 at Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, a Bundesliga performance chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had branded "unacceptable". Lewandowski was the only change to the starting line-up in a 4-3-3 formation as Mueller switched to the wing and Kingsley Coman dropping to the bench. Eindhoven coach Phillip Cocu made two changes from their 1-1 Dutch league draw with Heracles Almelo as Netherlands striker Narsingh and Mexico winger Andres Guardado returned. Bayern needed just 12 minutes to take the lead thanks to quick thinking from Mueller and Robben, who fired in a short pass from a corner. Eindhoven goalkeeper Jeroen Zoet parried Mueller's shot, but the Germany international snapped up the rebound and slotted home off his right foot. "It's my eighth season playing with Thomas," explained Robben. "I often know what he's going to do, and we work on things like that in training and we used the chance well." Bayern exploited the space Eindhoven generously gave them at the back. David Alaba's cross clipped a defender, but Kimmich tracked the looping ball to header over the line on 21 minutes for his seventh goal in eight games. Eindhoven then tightened their defence and started to attack. Uruguay winger Gaston Pereiro had the ball in the Munich net on their first meaningful attack on 39 minutes, but the goal was incorrectly ruled off side. The Dutch clawed one back two minutes later when Narsingh's superb shot from outside the area crashed in off the post to the annoyance of Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to make it 2-1 at the break. Lewandowski fired wide in the first two minutes after the break, but only Neuer's reflex save denied Pereiro at the other end. Just as PSV were gaining momentum, Bayern extended their lead. Robben beat two defenders before Zoet parried his shot before Lewandowski headed in the rebound on 59 minutes. Zoet's saves, to deny Alaba and Mueller, kept the score respectable before Thiago Alcantara's chip saw Robben nudge the ball over the Eindhoven keeper on 84 minutes. (AFP)

Bayern Munich break winless streak with 4-1 win over Eindhoven

World Cup-winning German midfielder Toni Kroos extended his contract with the Spanish giants Real Madrid for two years until 2022. His contract was to expire in 2020.&nbsp;

&quot;Real Madrid and Toni Kroos have agreed on the extension of the contract which will keep the player at the club until June 30, 2022,&quot; Real said in a statement.

Kroos had joined the club from Bayern Munich on a six-year deal in 2014 for 25 million euros (27.5 million dollars).&nbsp;

The 26-year-old has made 108 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring four goals. Part of Germany&#39;s 2014 World Cup-winning team, Kroos has established himself as a favourite in the midfield.&nbsp;

He was helped the club win the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in May. He has also won two UEFA Super Cups and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time in Spain.

(WION with inputs from agencies)

The midfielder, who had signed a six-year contract with Real Madrid in 2014, has decided to stay on with the club for another two years

World Cup-winning German midfielder Toni Kroos extended his contract with the Spanish giants Real Madrid for two years until 2022. His contract was to expire in 2020. "Real Madrid and Toni Kroos have agreed on the extension of the contract which will keep the player at the club until June 30, 2022," Real said in a statement. Kroos had joined the club from Bayern Munich on a six-year deal in 2014 for 25 million euros (27.5 million dollars). The 26-year-old has made 108 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring four goals. Part of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team, Kroos has established himself as a favourite in the midfield. He was helped the club win the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in May. He has also won two UEFA Super Cups and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time in Spain. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Germany's Kroos extends Real Madrid contract until 2022

Bayern Munich will aim for its fifth successive Bundesliga title in the season&nbsp;which kicks off on Friday. 
 
Pep Guardiola has won the Bundesliga in each of his three seasons and has&nbsp;been replaced by coach Carlo Ancelotti. 
 
In sync with its history of buying players from rivals Borussia Dortmund,&nbsp;Bayern have spent an estimated 35 million euros ($39.4 million) on Germany&nbsp;defender Mats Hummels. 
 
The also paid a similar amound for 19-year-old midfielder Renato Sanches&nbsp;from Benfica, a Euro 2016 winner with Portugal. 
 
Borussia Moenchengladbach let go of Granit Xhaka to Arsenal for around 45&nbsp;million euros and Schalke 04 pocketed some 50 million euros for 20-year-old&nbsp;Leroy Sane who has moved to Manchester City. 
 
This has led to a hasty rebuilding for Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel, who led&nbsp;his side to second place last season. 
 
Dortmund have spent more than 100 million euros on replacements, including&nbsp;Andre Schuerrle, Mario Goetze, Raphael Guerreiro and Ousmane Dembele. 
 
The new season will also feature newcomers RB Leipzig. 
 
(WION with inputs from agencies)

Bayern Munich continue to remain all-time favourites to win their fifth successive title

Bayern Munich will aim for its fifth successive Bundesliga title in the season which kicks off on Friday. Pep Guardiola has won the Bundesliga in each of his three seasons and has been replaced by coach Carlo Ancelotti. In sync with its history of buying players from rivals Borussia Dortmund, Bayern have spent an estimated 35 million euros ($39.4 million) on Germany defender Mats Hummels. The also paid a similar amound for 19-year-old midfielder Renato Sanches from Benfica, a Euro 2016 winner with Portugal. Borussia Moenchengladbach let go of Granit Xhaka to Arsenal for around 45 million euros and Schalke 04 pocketed some 50 million euros for 20-year-old Leroy Sane who has moved to Manchester City. This has led to a hasty rebuilding for Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel, who led his side to second place last season. Dortmund have spent more than 100 million euros on replacements, including Andre Schuerrle, Mario Goetze, Raphael Guerreiro and Ousmane Dembele. The new season will also feature newcomers RB Leipzig. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Another season of Bayern Bundesliga dominance beckons

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