Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) retained the UEFA Champions League crown, becoming just the second team in the competition’s history to successfully defend the title after edging Arsenal 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in the final at the Puskas Arena. The French giants held their nerve in the shootout, with Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes smashing the decisive penalty over the bar, sealing a historic consecutive Champions League triumph for PSG. For Arsenal, despite ending a 22-year wait to win the Premier League this season, but the search for a first-ever European title remains unfinished.&nbsp;The Premier League champions made a bright start and struck first, echoing their only previous Champions League final appearance two decades ago. Marquinhos' attempted clearance ricocheted off Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard and fell into the path of Kai Havertz, who moved forward from near the halfway line before firing home from a tight angle to put Arsenal ahead.&nbsp;PSG responded after the break in the second half, as Arsenal had frustrated the holders for almost an hour, but their defence was finally breached when Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia inside the penalty area.&nbsp;&nbsp;After a VAR review and an extended stoppage, Ousmane Dembele kept his composure from the spot, sending David Raya the wrong way to level the score.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/singapore-open-2026-satwiksairaj-rankireddy-and-chirag-shetty-stun-world-champions-to-reach-men-s-doubles-final-1780151076552">Singapore Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag stun world champions to reach final</a>&nbsp;Despite PSG controlled possession for much of the match, they could not find a decisive goal in either normal time or extra time. According to Opta, Arsenal finished with only 26 per cent possession, the lowest share recorded by a team in a Champions League final since data collection began in 2004.&nbsp;The penalty shootout remained tense after Eberechi Eze missed from the spot, while Raya kept Arsenal's hopes alive with a save from Nuno Mendes.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/violence-erupts-as-psg-celebrates-champions-league-win-against-arsenal-416-people-arrested-1780203004687">Violence erupts in Paris as PSG celebrates Champions League win against Arsenal; 416 people arrested</a> Lucas Beraldo successfully converted PSG's final penalty, leaving Gabriel needing to score to extend the shootout into sudden death. The Brazilian defender, however, sent his effort over the bar, sparking jubilant celebrations among PSG players and supporters. With the triumph, PSG joined 15-time champions Real Madrid as the only clubs to retain the Champions League title since the competition was rebranded in 1992. Madrid achieved the feat by winning three consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018. The final also marked the first Champions League title match to be decided by a penalty shootout since Real Madrid's victory over Atletico Madrid in 2016. Overall, PSG became the 10th club in European Cup history, dating back to 1955, to win consecutive continental titles. The victory further enhanced the legacy of PSG head coach Luis Enrique. Having previously guided Barcelona to Champions League glory in the 2014-15 season, the Spaniard secured his third European Cup triumph as a coach. Luis Enrique joined an elite group of managers with three or more European Cup titles, alongside Carlo Ancelotti, who has won five; and Bob Paisley, Zinedine Zidane, and Pep Guardiola, who have each lifted the trophy three times.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Arsenal were on the brink of securing their maiden Champions League title, but Paris Saint-Germain held their nerve in the penalty shootout to defend their crown and deny the Gunners a historic triumph.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) retained the UEFA Champions League crown, becoming just the second team in the competition’s history to successfully defend the title after edging Arsenal 4-3 in a thrilling penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time in the final at the Puskas Arena. The French giants held their nerve in the shootout, with Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes smashing the decisive penalty over the bar, sealing a historic consecutive Champions League triumph for PSG. For Arsenal, despite ending a 22-year wait to win the Premier League this season, but the search for a first-ever European title remains unfinished. The Premier League champions made a bright start and struck first, echoing their only previous Champions League final appearance two decades ago. Marquinhos' attempted clearance ricocheted off Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard and fell into the path of Kai Havertz, who moved forward from near the halfway line before firing home from a tight angle to put Arsenal ahead. PSG responded after the break in the second half, as Arsenal had frustrated the holders for almost an hour, but their defence was finally breached when Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia inside the penalty area. After a VAR review and an extended stoppage, Ousmane Dembele kept his composure from the spot, sending David Raya the wrong way to level the score. Also Read - Singapore Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag stun world champions to reach final Despite PSG controlled possession for much of the match, they could not find a decisive goal in either normal time or extra time. According to Opta, Arsenal finished with only 26 per cent possession, the lowest share recorded by a team in a Champions League final since data collection began in 2004. The penalty shootout remained tense after Eberechi Eze missed from the spot, while Raya kept Arsenal's hopes alive with a save from Nuno Mendes. Also Read - Violence erupts in Paris as PSG celebrates Champions League win against Arsenal; 416 people arrested Lucas Beraldo successfully converted PSG's final penalty, leaving Gabriel needing to score to extend the shootout into sudden death. The Brazilian defender, however, sent his effort over the bar, sparking jubilant celebrations among PSG players and supporters. With the triumph, PSG joined 15-time champions Real Madrid as the only clubs to retain the Champions League title since the competition was rebranded in 1992. Madrid achieved the feat by winning three consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018. The final also marked the first Champions League title match to be decided by a penalty shootout since Real Madrid's victory over Atletico Madrid in 2016. Overall, PSG became the 10th club in European Cup history, dating back to 1955, to win consecutive continental titles. The victory further enhanced the legacy of PSG head coach Luis Enrique. Having previously guided Barcelona to Champions League glory in the 2014-15 season, the Spaniard secured his third European Cup triumph as a coach. Luis Enrique joined an elite group of managers with three or more European Cup titles, alongside Carlo Ancelotti, who has won five; and Bob Paisley, Zinedine Zidane, and Pep Guardiola, who have each lifted the trophy three times. With inputs from agencies

Arsenal were on the brink of securing their maiden Champions League title, but Paris Saint-Germain held their nerve in the penalty shootout to defend their crown and deny the Gunners a historic triumph.

PSG retain Champions League crown after crushing Arsenal’s hopes

Arsenal lifted the 2025-26 Premier League title, while England's top clubs secured Champions League qualification. Erling Haaland finished as the league's top scorer, Bruno Fernandes led the assists chart, and Virgil van Dijk recorded the most passes.

Premier League 2025-26 Review | Who scored most goals, assists and passes and teams which qualified for Champions League

PSG beat Bayern Munich in the semis, Liverpool in the quarter-finals, Chelsea in the Round of 16 and Monaco in the knockout phase to enter their second consecutive Champions League final.

Champions League | Defending champions PSG's road to final

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has called refereeing ridiculous after being ousted from Champions Trophy on Wednesday (May 6). Bayern's journey ended after playing a 1-1 draw in semi-final second leg against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who advanced to their second consecutive final on 6-5 aggregate score. Kompany called out two calls made by referee during the game - Nuno Mendes handball in the first half and Joao Neves handlball later on. In the Mendes incident, PSG got the free kick instead of what they think should have been second yellow card for the PSG player.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-invites-iran-to-headquarters-by-may-20-to-prepare-for-world-cup-north-america-usa-donald-trump-israel-1777987807215">FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’</a><h2>Why referee did not give Mendes handball?</h2>At nearly the half-hour mark, Bayern's Konrad Laimer pushed the ball ahead which struck on Mendes' arm. The referee, however, had already whistled against Laimer who had appeared to have handled the ball himself. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The ball straight into the arms of Nuno Mendes in the penalty box but no penalty given. At this point, I don’t know how much PSG paid, but it must sure be a lot! <a href="https://t.co/li3QJOJwFQ">pic.twitter.com/li3QJOJwFQ</a>&mdash; nebuchadnezzar (@chrismyka015) <a href="https://twitter.com/chrismyka015/status/2052117802773852615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The second incident happened when PSG's Vitinha's clearance kick hit his teammate Joao Neves on his hand inside the box but no penalty given. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BAYERN ARE APPEALING FOR A PENALTY AS JOÃO NEVES HANDLES THE BALL IN THE BOX AFTER VITINHA’S CLEARANCE!!! 😱 <a href="https://t.co/bJB1ivILkM">pic.twitter.com/bJB1ivILkM</a>&mdash; Dribble TV (@Dribble_TV1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dribble_TV1/status/2052111400886055376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kompany wasn't happy about either of the decisions and it may have played a role in 1-1 game which saw German giants bow out of the Champions League.<h2>What did Kompany say about refereeing?</h2>"We have to look at some of the phases that were decided by the officials across the two games which … it’s never an excuse for everything but it matters," he said. "If we look at both legs probably too much went against us. The guys gave everything and we tried against a fantastic PSG team."[João Neves’s] hand is in the air, it hits it. Because it’s from his own teammate it’s not a penalty. But if you look at both [situations], a ­little bit of common sense and it’s just ridiculous. Whatever needs to happen but it’s ridiculous. It doesn’t tell the whole game but it’s a one-goal game in the end."PSG now play against English Premier League giants Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest, Hungary for their second consecutive European title.

Kompany called out two handballs not given by referee in semi-final second leg vs PSG - against Mendes and Neves - in a game which ended in 1-1 draw and PSG advanced to UCL final on 6-5 aggregate.

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has called refereeing ridiculous after being ousted from Champions Trophy on Wednesday (May 6). Bayern's journey ended after playing a 1-1 draw in semi-final second leg against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who advanced to their second consecutive final on 6-5 aggregate score. Kompany called out two calls made by referee during the game - Nuno Mendes handball in the first half and Joao Neves handlball later on. In the Mendes incident, PSG got the free kick instead of what they think should have been second yellow card for the PSG player. Also Read - FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’ Why referee did not give Mendes handball? At nearly the half-hour mark, Bayern's Konrad Laimer pushed the ball ahead which struck on Mendes' arm. The referee, however, had already whistled against Laimer who had appeared to have handled the ball himself. Have a look at the video below:

Kompany called out two handballs not given by referee in semi-final second leg vs PSG - against Mendes and Neves - in a game which ended in 1-1 draw and PSG advanced to UCL final on 6-5 aggregate.

Champions League | 'Just ridiculous': Bayern coach Kompany decries refereeing calls vs PSG - WATCH

Holders Paris Saint-Germain set up a Champions League final against Arsenal after a 1-1 second-leg draw at Bayern Munich secured a 6-5 aggregate victory on Wednesday. PSG exploded on the counter less than three minutes in and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele put Luis Enrique's visitors ahead on the night and two goals up in the tie. PSG largely succeeded in subduing Bayern's attacking threat, despite Harry Kane's stoppage-time goal.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-real-madrid-fans-want-mbappe-to-be-sold-french-footballer-speaks-up-after-criticism-over-weekend-trip-with-girlfriend-1778043923888">Mbappe speaks up after criticism for trip with girlfriend amid injury recovery</a>"It was an exceptional match, another magical night in Munich against a great team," PSG forward Desire Doue told Canal Plus."These are the kinds of matches we've dreamt of playing since we were little. Now, we're going to enjoy this as a team."On their return to Munich's Allianz Arena, the scene of their greatest triumph against Inter Milan in last year's final, PSG once again emphasised their excellence in a competition they coveted without success for so long.The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.They are hoping to become only the second back-to-back winners since 1990, after Real Madrid.Bayern were angered by some first-half refereeing decisions but lacked the potency they showed in their 5-4 first-leg loss in Paris.The six-time European champions have still not reached the final since beating PSG in the 2020 showpiece in Lisbon."I don't have the ability to be disappointed for long," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. "Of course, in the end we lost two very, very tight games against a very good opponent."Both sides were playing their 52nd match of the season in all competitions -- not even counting last summer's Club World Cup -- but only the hosts looked weary.So dangerous in the first leg, Bayern were surprisingly stodgy, with Michael Olise in particular having an off night.In the midst of a record-breaking season, Bayern's fourth defeat in all competitions will sting for a club set to wonder what might have been.<h2>Dembele strikes early</h2>With Bayern already Bundesliga champions and PSG also on track for the Ligue 1 title, both sides heavily rotated their line-ups in the weekend's league fixtures.But both teams only made one change to their starting XIs compared to last week's spectacle in Paris. Only PSG's was forced, with Fabian Ruiz in for the injured Achraf Hakimi.The high-octane first leg was widely lauded as among the best matches in the competition's history and Wednesday's game offered more of the same early.Ruiz, starting his first European match since January, set Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down the left flank with an excellent through ball.The Georgian latched onto the pass, blazed past his marker before cutting back for the perfectly placed Dembele to slam home.Bayern conceded after just 36 seconds against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals and fought back to win but seemed stunned by the early goal this time around.Olise, Kane and Joshua Kimmich all mislaid passes in the opening half-hour, ending promising attacks.Bayern surrounded referee Joao Pinheiro claiming a penalty on the half-hour mark when Vitinha's clearance hit Joao Neves's outstretched arm in the box, but their appeals were waved away.The home players had already been left incensed when PSG full-back Nuno Mendes was not shown a second yellow card for handball.PSG went inches from scoring a second but Manuel Neuer tipped a close-range Neves header just wide of the post.The home team rediscovered their rhythm just before the break, with Jamal Musiala forcing an excellent low save from PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov and blasting over the bar.PSG showed a more measured side to their game in the second half, sitting back to absorb Bayern pressure while never losing their own threat on the counter.Neuer made fine saves from Kvaratskhelia and Doue to keep Bayern in the tie.The Bavarians dominated possession and territory but could not break through until Kane scored for a seventh straight Champions League match in stoppage time.There was time for the restart, but it was too little, too late for the hosts.

The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain set up a Champions League final against Arsenal after a 1-1 second-leg draw at Bayern Munich secured a 6-5 aggregate victory on Wednesday. PSG exploded on the counter less than three minutes in and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele put Luis Enrique's visitors ahead on the night and two goals up in the tie. PSG largely succeeded in subduing Bayern's attacking threat, despite Harry Kane's stoppage-time goal. Also Read - Mbappe speaks up after criticism for trip with girlfriend amid injury recovery "It was an exceptional match, another magical night in Munich against a great team," PSG forward Desire Doue told Canal Plus. "These are the kinds of matches we've dreamt of playing since we were little. Now, we're going to enjoy this as a team." On their return to Munich's Allianz Arena, the scene of their greatest triumph against Inter Milan in last year's final, PSG once again emphasised their excellence in a competition they coveted without success for so long. The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest. They are hoping to become only the second back-to-back winners since 1990, after Real Madrid. Bayern were angered by some first-half refereeing decisions but lacked the potency they showed in their 5-4 first-leg loss in Paris. The six-time European champions have still not reached the final since beating PSG in the 2020 showpiece in Lisbon. "I don't have the ability to be disappointed for long," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. "Of course, in the end we lost two very, very tight games against a very good opponent." Both sides were playing their 52nd match of the season in all competitions -- not even counting last summer's Club World Cup -- but only the hosts looked weary. So dangerous in the first leg, Bayern were surprisingly stodgy, with Michael Olise in particular having an off night. In the midst of a record-breaking season, Bayern's fourth defeat in all competitions will sting for a club set to wonder what might have been. Dembele strikes early With Bayern already Bundesliga champions and PSG also on track for the Ligue 1 title, both sides heavily rotated their line-ups in the weekend's league fixtures. But both teams only made one change to their starting XIs compared to last week's spectacle in Paris. Only PSG's was forced, with Fabian Ruiz in for the injured Achraf Hakimi. The high-octane first leg was widely lauded as among the best matches in the competition's history and Wednesday's game offered more of the same early. Ruiz, starting his first European match since January, set Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down the left flank with an excellent through ball. The Georgian latched onto the pass, blazed past his marker before cutting back for the perfectly placed Dembele to slam home. Bayern conceded after just 36 seconds against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals and fought back to win but seemed stunned by the early goal this time around. Olise, Kane and Joshua Kimmich all mislaid passes in the opening half-hour, ending promising attacks. Bayern surrounded referee Joao Pinheiro claiming a penalty on the half-hour mark when Vitinha's clearance hit Joao Neves's outstretched arm in the box, but their appeals were waved away. The home players had already been left incensed when PSG full-back Nuno Mendes was not shown a second yellow card for handball. PSG went inches from scoring a second but Manuel Neuer tipped a close-range Neves header just wide of the post. The home team rediscovered their rhythm just before the break, with Jamal Musiala forcing an excellent low save from PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov and blasting over the bar. PSG showed a more measured side to their game in the second half, sitting back to absorb Bayern pressure while never losing their own threat on the counter. Neuer made fine saves from Kvaratskhelia and Doue to keep Bayern in the tie. The Bavarians dominated possession and territory but could not break through until Kane scored for a seventh straight Champions League match in stoppage time. There was time for the restart, but it was too little, too late for the hosts.

The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.

Champions League | Defending champions PSG edge past Bayern to set up final vs Arsenal

Arsenal reached the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years as Bukayo Saka sealed a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Mikel Arteta's side settled the semi-final second leg with Saka's strike late in the first half at an ecstatic Emirates Stadium. The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.Holders PSG, who beat Arsenal in the semi-finals last year, have a 5-4 lead ahead of the second leg in Munich on Wednesday.It was a cathartic night for Arsenal, who are back in the Champions League final for the first time since losing 2-1 to Barcelona in their only previous appearance in the showpiece in 2006.Arsenal have never won the Champions League, with their two major European trophies coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup and the 1970 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.Their last continental final ended in a 4-1 defeat against Chelsea in the 2019 Europa League.It is shaping up to be Arsenal's greatest ever season as they chase a Premier League and Champions League double.Even Arsene Wenger's 'Invincibles' -- who won the club's last English title in an unbeaten top-flight campaign in 2004 -- might have to bow to the current generation if they finish the job.Fittingly, it was Saka -- the homegrown symbol of the Arteta era -- who proved Arsenal's match-winner.Now just four games from immortality, Premier League leaders Arsenal were given a huge boost in the title race when second-placed Manchester City drew at Everton on Monday.The Gunners will be crowned champions if they win their last three games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace.Once the title is decided, Arsenal will head to Hungary with a maiden Champions League crown in their sights.Arsenal endured jibes about their perceived lack of mental strength after a run of four defeats in six games in all competitions sparked painful memories of previous failures to end their six-year wait for silverware.But the 'nearly-men' and 'serial choker' labels applied only weeks ago are on the verge of being banished forever.<h2>Jubilant Arteta</h2>Thousands of Arsenal supporters massed outside the stadium before kick-off to greet their team with flares and flags, a vociferous display of affection underlining Arsenal's desperation to make history.It was the kind of evening in north London, when nothing was beyond the realm of possibility as Arsenal moved closer to casting off the shackles of two decades of underachievement.After some tense performances during the Premier League run-in, Saturday's 3-0 rout of Fulham had showed Arsenal at their flowing best in a riposte to the critics who claim they only win ugly.This was a more prosaic display but no-one with an affinity to Arsenal was bothered in the slightest.Arsenal were nearly caught on the counter in a frenetic start when Julian Alvarez shot just wide before Giuliano Simeone's close-range effort deflected past the post.But Arsenal recovered from those anxious moments to deliver a dominant spell that brought their 44th minute goal.Viktor Gyokeres' clever run unhinged the Atletico defence and his cross reached Leandro Trossard inside the area.Trossard wriggled into just enough space for a low drive that Jan Oblak weakly pushed out to Saka, who reacted quicker than his flat-footed markers to slot home from four yards.Arteta jubilantly punched the air as all around him the Emirates erupted into a roiling red sea of celebration.Atletico tried to ruin the party in the second half, but Gabriel Magalhaes made a last-ditch tackle on Simeone to avert a certain goal before David Raya repelled Antoine Griezmann's blast.Arteta recently revealed he visualised Arsenal conquering the Champions League even in the difficult early days of his reign.The Spaniard now is just one win away from seeing that daydream become a glorious reality.

The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.

Arsenal reached the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years as Bukayo Saka sealed a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Mikel Arteta's side settled the semi-final second leg with Saka's strike late in the first half at an ecstatic Emirates Stadium. The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30. Holders PSG, who beat Arsenal in the semi-finals last year, have a 5-4 lead ahead of the second leg in Munich on Wednesday. It was a cathartic night for Arsenal, who are back in the Champions League final for the first time since losing 2-1 to Barcelona in their only previous appearance in the showpiece in 2006. Arsenal have never won the Champions League, with their two major European trophies coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup and the 1970 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. Their last continental final ended in a 4-1 defeat against Chelsea in the 2019 Europa League. It is shaping up to be Arsenal's greatest ever season as they chase a Premier League and Champions League double. Even Arsene Wenger's 'Invincibles' -- who won the club's last English title in an unbeaten top-flight campaign in 2004 -- might have to bow to the current generation if they finish the job. Fittingly, it was Saka -- the homegrown symbol of the Arteta era -- who proved Arsenal's match-winner. Now just four games from immortality, Premier League leaders Arsenal were given a huge boost in the title race when second-placed Manchester City drew at Everton on Monday. The Gunners will be crowned champions if they win their last three games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace. Once the title is decided, Arsenal will head to Hungary with a maiden Champions League crown in their sights. Arsenal endured jibes about their perceived lack of mental strength after a run of four defeats in six games in all competitions sparked painful memories of previous failures to end their six-year wait for silverware. But the 'nearly-men' and 'serial choker' labels applied only weeks ago are on the verge of being banished forever. Jubilant Arteta Thousands of Arsenal supporters massed outside the stadium before kick-off to greet their team with flares and flags, a vociferous display of affection underlining Arsenal's desperation to make history. It was the kind of evening in north London, when nothing was beyond the realm of possibility as Arsenal moved closer to casting off the shackles of two decades of underachievement. After some tense performances during the Premier League run-in, Saturday's 3-0 rout of Fulham had showed Arsenal at their flowing best in a riposte to the critics who claim they only win ugly. This was a more prosaic display but no-one with an affinity to Arsenal was bothered in the slightest. Arsenal were nearly caught on the counter in a frenetic start when Julian Alvarez shot just wide before Giuliano Simeone's close-range effort deflected past the post. But Arsenal recovered from those anxious moments to deliver a dominant spell that brought their 44th minute goal. Viktor Gyokeres' clever run unhinged the Atletico defence and his cross reached Leandro Trossard inside the area. Trossard wriggled into just enough space for a low drive that Jan Oblak weakly pushed out to Saka, who reacted quicker than his flat-footed markers to slot home from four yards. Arteta jubilantly punched the air as all around him the Emirates erupted into a roiling red sea of celebration. Atletico tried to ruin the party in the second half, but Gabriel Magalhaes made a last-ditch tackle on Simeone to avert a certain goal before David Raya repelled Antoine Griezmann's blast. Arteta recently revealed he visualised Arsenal conquering the Champions League even in the difficult early days of his reign. The Spaniard now is just one win away from seeing that daydream become a glorious reality.

The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.

Champions League | Arsenal beat Atletico to enter first final in 20 years

With just three matches left in the season, Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid, which is out of the tournament, is leading the golden boot race with 15 goals. Bayern's Harry Kane is second with 13 goals and can surpass Mbappe.

Champions League | Who is leading the golden boot race in ongoing season? check list

The Champions League 2025-26 is in semi-final stage the final four round couldn't have began any better with defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) beating German Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich in an epic thriller. PSG came out on top in the nine-goal semi-final first leg epic at home ground Parc des Prince in Paris on Tuesday (Apr 28), making the second leg game an absolute must watch a week later. The 90-minute game saw nine goals being scored by both teams combined, that is one goal every 10 minutes - making it an instant classic. Bayern did try their best to cut down the deficit in the second half but were held by PSG defenders one short in 5-4 scoreline.<h2>How PSG triumphed Bayern in Champions League classic?</h2>The game began with Bayern's English player Harry Kane scoring the opening goal on a penalty in the 17th minute. PSG then replied back seven minutes later as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored the equalizer for PSG in the 24th minute. Upbeat at home ground, Joao Neves gave PSG lead in the 33rd minute but Bayern's Michael Olise took only eight minutes to bring the scores back to parity. PSG, however, went into the half time with a one-goal lead, thanks to Ousmane Dembele's goal in injury time of the first half on a penalty.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/john-stones-to-leave-manchester-city-at-season-end-after-10-dreamy-years-bernardo-silva-free-agent-2026-fc-barcelona-transfer-news-1777384810890">John Stones to leave Manchester City at season end after 10 ‘dreamy’ years</a>The second half started more frantically then the first one with Kvaratskhelia scoring in the 56th minute to double PSG's lead and Dembele, two minutes later, added another goal to pile on Bayern's misery. The Germans, however, rallied back with Dayot Upamecano and Lusi Diaz scoring in 65th and 68th minute to cut their deficit to one goal. Have a look at the best goals of the night below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">One game, four amazing contenders for Goal of the Day 😍 Kvara, Olise, Luis Díaz or Dembélé... which was your favourite? ⚽<a href="https://twitter.com/Heineken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Heineken</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLGOTD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLGOTD</a> <a href="https://t.co/ycEkqqWtqp">pic.twitter.com/ycEkqqWtqp</a>&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/2049249887749919058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PSG, however, held Bayern for the remaining 22 minutes of the game to secure a one goal lead going into the second leg.<h2>PSG manager Luis Enrique calls it 'best game coached'</h2>Ecstatic with his team's performance, defending champs PSG's manager Luis Enrique called the match best game he's ever coached and said: "It was amazing. It had amazing rhythm, trying to play offensive football, trying to show their quality. I think everybody had fun watching the match. I’m happy because we won."The two sides will now meet a week later at Bayern's home for the second leg of the semi-final and the German giants will be hoping to ride on home support to not only erase the one goal deficit but came out triumphant for a place in the final in Budapest, Hungary on May 30.

The 90-minute game saw nine goals being scored by both teams combined, that is one goal every 10 minutes - making it an instant classic. Bayern did try their best to cut down the deficit in the second half but were held by PSG defenders one short in 5-4 scoreline.

The Champions League 2025-26 is in semi-final stage the final four round couldn't have began any better with defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) beating German Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich in an epic thriller. PSG came out on top in the nine-goal semi-final first leg epic at home ground Parc des Prince in Paris on Tuesday (Apr 28), making the second leg game an absolute must watch a week later. The 90-minute game saw nine goals being scored by both teams combined, that is one goal every 10 minutes - making it an instant classic. Bayern did try their best to cut down the deficit in the second half but were held by PSG defenders one short in 5-4 scoreline. How PSG triumphed Bayern in Champions League classic? The game began with Bayern's English player Harry Kane scoring the opening goal on a penalty in the 17th minute. PSG then replied back seven minutes later as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored the equalizer for PSG in the 24th minute. Upbeat at home ground, Joao Neves gave PSG lead in the 33rd minute but Bayern's Michael Olise took only eight minutes to bring the scores back to parity. PSG, however, went into the half time with a one-goal lead, thanks to Ousmane Dembele's goal in injury time of the first half on a penalty. Also Read - John Stones to leave Manchester City at season end after 10 ‘dreamy’ years The second half started more frantically then the first one with Kvaratskhelia scoring in the 56th minute to double PSG's lead and Dembele, two minutes later, added another goal to pile on Bayern's misery. The Germans, however, rallied back with Dayot Upamecano and Lusi Diaz scoring in 65th and 68th minute to cut their deficit to one goal. Have a look at the best goals of the night below:

The 90-minute game saw nine goals being scored by both teams combined, that is one goal every 10 minutes - making it an instant classic. Bayern did try their best to cut down the deficit in the second half but were held by PSG defenders one short in 5-4 scoreline.

Champions League, semi-final | '1 goal every 10 minutes': How PSG won nine-goal epic vs Bayern Munich

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele scored twice each as Paris Saint-Germain beat Bayern Munich 5-4 in an epic first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday -- an extraordinary encounter that was the highest-scoring match ever at this stage of the competition. The first half alone was crazy, with Harry Kane giving Bayern the lead from a penalty, only for Kvaratskhelia to equalise before Joao Neves headed the hosts in front at an enthralled Parc des Princes. Michael Olise made it 2-2, but a Dembele penalty in first-half stoppage time had the reigning champions back ahead at the interval.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/open-golf-championship-2026-set-to-impose-two-shot-penalty-for-misconduct-how-will-it-impact-players-1777357231295">Open Championship set to impose two-shot penalty for misconduct</a>Kvaratskhelia, surely the standout player in this season's Champions League, and Dembele both then scored again to have hosts PSG seemingly out of sight, only for Dayot Upamecano to pull one back before Luis Diaz made it 5-4.An unforgettable game -- perhaps better even than last season's semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona -- leaves the tie between the continent's two best teams of the moment wonderfully poised for next Wednesday's return at the Allianz Arena, with a place in the final in Budapest on May 30 on the line."I'm sure everyone who loves football really enjoyed watching that. It was a real pleasure to play in that game, the kind of game we dream of playing in as kids," PSG captain Marquinhos told broadcaster Canal Plus.His team will be returning to Munich -- scene of their 5-0 win over Inter in last year's final -- with the advantage, but Bayern will be confident they can overturn the narrow deficit at home."We fought and we clawed and we're back in the tie," Kane told Amazon Prime. "I thought there was amazing defending even though there were nine goals."The French champions are seeking to become just the second side in the modern Champions League era to retain the trophy, while the German champions are hoping to reach the final for the first time since 2020, when they defeated PSG to lift the trophy for the sixth time.<h2>Instant classic</h2>Vincent Kompany's team arrived in Paris having scored 167 goals this season, led by the remarkable Kane and his 53 goals in 45 appearances.This tie had a lot to live up to, after Bayern's spectacular win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, but it was an instant classic as both teams showcased their devastating firepower.Bayern went ahead in the 17th minute as Willian Pacho chopped down Diaz and Kane converted the resulting penalty for his 54th of the campaign.The visitors won 2-1 here in November in the league phase thanks to a Diaz double and they were the better team early on this time.But their front-foot approach made them vulnerable to the counter-attack, and PSG's leveller came just after the midway point in the first half.The brilliant Kvaratskhelia broke clear of Josip Stanisic down the left before cutting inside and firing into the far corner.A classic Kvaratskhelia goal was followed by Neves heading in Dembele's corner on 33 minutes.The action was only just getting started, however, as French international Olise drove towards the PSG box before smashing in for 2-2.PSG then won a penalty at the end of the first half when a Dembele cross struck the arm of Alphonso Davies, the Canadian making his first start in the Champions League this season after injury.It was given by the Swiss referee after a VAR check, and Dembele beat Manuel Neuer to make it 3-2 at half-time -- a lead which PSG added to after the restart, leaving Bayern stunned.Achraf Hakimi's assist was swept in by Kvaratskhelia for 4-2 on 56 minutes, the Georgian getting his seventh goal in seven games in the knockout phase.Bayern were not able to reset before Dembele surprised Neuer with a shot in off the near post to make it 5-2 with his second of the night.But Bayern were not done, as Upamecano headed in Joshua Kimmich's free-kick to take Kompany's side to 170 for their season tally.Diaz, who was sent off in the November meeting, then dribbled past Marquinhos before slotting in for the night's final goal, making it 5-4.Kompany, watching from the stands due to suspension, would have been delighted with his team's response -- even if they were relieved to see Senny Mayulu's late strike for PSG come back off Neuer's crossbar.

An unforgettable game -- perhaps better even than last season's semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona -- leaves the tie between the continent's two best teams wonderfully poised for next Wednesday's return at the Allianz Arena, with a place in the final on May 30 on the line.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele scored twice each as Paris Saint-Germain beat Bayern Munich 5-4 in an epic first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday -- an extraordinary encounter that was the highest-scoring match ever at this stage of the competition. The first half alone was crazy, with Harry Kane giving Bayern the lead from a penalty, only for Kvaratskhelia to equalise before Joao Neves headed the hosts in front at an enthralled Parc des Princes. Michael Olise made it 2-2, but a Dembele penalty in first-half stoppage time had the reigning champions back ahead at the interval. Also Read - Open Championship set to impose two-shot penalty for misconduct Kvaratskhelia, surely the standout player in this season's Champions League, and Dembele both then scored again to have hosts PSG seemingly out of sight, only for Dayot Upamecano to pull one back before Luis Diaz made it 5-4. An unforgettable game -- perhaps better even than last season's semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona -- leaves the tie between the continent's two best teams of the moment wonderfully poised for next Wednesday's return at the Allianz Arena, with a place in the final in Budapest on May 30 on the line. "I'm sure everyone who loves football really enjoyed watching that. It was a real pleasure to play in that game, the kind of game we dream of playing in as kids," PSG captain Marquinhos told broadcaster Canal Plus. His team will be returning to Munich -- scene of their 5-0 win over Inter in last year's final -- with the advantage, but Bayern will be confident they can overturn the narrow deficit at home. "We fought and we clawed and we're back in the tie," Kane told Amazon Prime. "I thought there was amazing defending even though there were nine goals." The French champions are seeking to become just the second side in the modern Champions League era to retain the trophy, while the German champions are hoping to reach the final for the first time since 2020, when they defeated PSG to lift the trophy for the sixth time. Instant classic Vincent Kompany's team arrived in Paris having scored 167 goals this season, led by the remarkable Kane and his 53 goals in 45 appearances. This tie had a lot to live up to, after Bayern's spectacular win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, but it was an instant classic as both teams showcased their devastating firepower. Bayern went ahead in the 17th minute as Willian Pacho chopped down Diaz and Kane converted the resulting penalty for his 54th of the campaign. The visitors won 2-1 here in November in the league phase thanks to a Diaz double and they were the better team early on this time. But their front-foot approach made them vulnerable to the counter-attack, and PSG's leveller came just after the midway point in the first half. The brilliant Kvaratskhelia broke clear of Josip Stanisic down the left before cutting inside and firing into the far corner. A classic Kvaratskhelia goal was followed by Neves heading in Dembele's corner on 33 minutes. The action was only just getting started, however, as French international Olise drove towards the PSG box before smashing in for 2-2. PSG then won a penalty at the end of the first half when a Dembele cross struck the arm of Alphonso Davies, the Canadian making his first start in the Champions League this season after injury. It was given by the Swiss referee after a VAR check, and Dembele beat Manuel Neuer to make it 3-2 at half-time -- a lead which PSG added to after the restart, leaving Bayern stunned. Achraf Hakimi's assist was swept in by Kvaratskhelia for 4-2 on 56 minutes, the Georgian getting his seventh goal in seven games in the knockout phase. Bayern were not able to reset before Dembele surprised Neuer with a shot in off the near post to make it 5-2 with his second of the night. But Bayern were not done, as Upamecano headed in Joshua Kimmich's free-kick to take Kompany's side to 170 for their season tally. Diaz, who was sent off in the November meeting, then dribbled past Marquinhos before slotting in for the night's final goal, making it 5-4. Kompany, watching from the stands due to suspension, would have been delighted with his team's response -- even if they were relieved to see Senny Mayulu's late strike for PSG come back off Neuer's crossbar.

An unforgettable game -- perhaps better even than last season's semi-final between Inter Milan and Barcelona -- leaves the tie between the continent's two best teams wonderfully poised for next Wednesday's return at the Allianz Arena, with a place in the final on May 30 on the line.

Champions League, semi-final | Defending champions PSG edge past Bayern in nine-goal leg one thriller

The four teams remaining in the tournament are - defending champions PSG, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and Arsenal. The semi-final, Atletico vs Arsenal & PSG vs Bayern Munich, will be played in two-leg home-away format with first leg on April 28-29 and second leg on May 6-7.

Champions League | Only 4 teams remain - Meet semi-finalists, match details, dates and more

A place in the Champions League semifinal will be up for grabs as 15-time champions Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the second leg on Wednesday (April 15). Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. So ahead of the all-important second leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, here is all you need to know.&nbsp;What is the head-to-head record for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in Champions League history?Not much separates both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in overall head-to-head records, with the hosts of Wednesday’s match winning 13 while Madrid have won 12 in 29 previous meetings. Four matches have ended in draws between the sides.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;What is the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?The Allianz Arena in Munich will be the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg.&nbsp;When will the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League start?The Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Champions League clash starts at 12:30 a.m. IST and 8:00 p.m. GMT.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Which channel will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.&nbsp;Which platform will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?Sony Live will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.

Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern Munich in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. 

A place in the Champions League semifinal will be up for grabs as 15-time champions Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the second leg on Wednesday (April 15). Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. So ahead of the all-important second leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, here is all you need to know. What is the head-to-head record for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in Champions League history? Not much separates both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in overall head-to-head records, with the hosts of Wednesday’s match winning 13 while Madrid have won 12 in 29 previous meetings. Four matches have ended in draws between the sides. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions What is the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? The Allianz Arena in Munich will be the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg. When will the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League start? The Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Champions League clash starts at 12:30 a.m. IST and 8:00 p.m. GMT. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Which channel will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India. Which platform will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? Sony Live will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.

Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern Munich in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis.&nbsp;

Champions League: All you need to know about Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash

Liverpool's French star Hugo Ekitike suffered a crushing injury upon his return to the XI against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Champions League quarter-final second leg on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Anfield. Ekitike left the pitch on stretcher in what did not look like a good sign for the player or his World Cup hopes. The FIFA World Cup 2026 starts in nearly two months on Jun 11 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Ekitike's injury has definitely put a dent in his plans as Liverpool crashed out of the European supremacy tournament, losing 4-0 aggregate after 2-0 loss on Tuesday at home.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-red-cards-denied-appeal-boot-to-face-how-barcelona-s-season-came-to-an-end-1776231475222">UCL | 'Red cards, denied appeal &amp; boot to face': How Barca's season came to end</a><h2>What happened to Hugo Ekitike?</h2>Ekitike went down on the field visibly suffering with a suspected Achilles. Liverpool medical staff came rushing to help the player but he couldn't get up. Ekitike was eventually taken off the field on a stretcher - the worst nightmare for a player. Have a loo at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Looks bad for Ekitike for Liverpool. Could be Achilles injury that might see him out for the rest of the season. Just been stretchered off 😮‍💨. Just before the World Cup too! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ekitike?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ekitike</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/liverpool?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#liverpool</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/uc4nHJzlk6">pic.twitter.com/uc4nHJzlk6</a>&mdash; XRPatiently Waiting (@thepatientbloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/thepatientbloke/status/2044142819128844302?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Speaking on the injury, Liverpool boss Arne Slot said after the game: "Hugo looks really bad but it is difficult to say how bad. Let’s see. It doesn’t look good, that is clear. I didn’t see him at half-time and after the game he was already home. I have not spoken to him yet."<h2>Dembele crushes Liverpool then says 'you have suffer'</h2>Ousmane Dembele was the only goal scorer in the matches, netting the ball in 72nd and well as 90+1 minute to ensure PSG win 2-0. After the game, Dembele admitted he was happy with the result that there are no easy games in Champions League."There are no easy matches in the Champions League. You have to suffer to go all the way in this competition. In the first half, we had chances, we were pretty much in control. In the second half, it was more complicated but that's normal. It's the Champions League, there are only good teams. We come out away from this two-legged tie with two victories, which is very good," he told Canal+.<h2>Konate blames denied penalty for Liverpool's loss</h2>Ibrahima Konate blamed the penalty overturn after VAR intervention as the reason for Liverpool's exit from the Champions League. The English Premier League side were given a penalty in the second half with scores at 0-0 but VAR interjection overruled referee Maurizio Mariani's decision and the penalty was denied.For me it was a clear penalty and was just behind the referee but he did not blow the whistle and we have to deal with that," Konate said after Liverpool's 4-0 aggregate loss. "If we got the penalty and score it would be completely different."

Liverpool's Ekitike left the pitch on stretcher in what did not look like a good sign for the player or his World Cup hopes. The FIFA World Cup 2026 starts in nearly two months on Jun 11 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Liverpool's French star Hugo Ekitike suffered a crushing injury upon his return to the XI against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in Champions League quarter-final second leg on Tuesday (Apr 14) at Anfield. Ekitike left the pitch on stretcher in what did not look like a good sign for the player or his World Cup hopes. The FIFA World Cup 2026 starts in nearly two months on Jun 11 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Ekitike's injury has definitely put a dent in his plans as Liverpool crashed out of the European supremacy tournament, losing 4-0 aggregate after 2-0 loss on Tuesday at home. Also Read - UCL | 'Red cards, denied appeal & boot to face': How Barca's season came to end What happened to Hugo Ekitike? Ekitike went down on the field visibly suffering with a suspected Achilles. Liverpool medical staff came rushing to help the player but he couldn't get up. Ekitike was eventually taken off the field on a stretcher - the worst nightmare for a player. Have a loo at the video below:

Liverpool's Ekitike left the pitch on stretcher in what did not look like a good sign for the player or his World Cup hopes. The FIFA World Cup 2026 starts in nearly two months on Jun 11 and is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Champions League | Frenchman Ekitike doubtful for World Cup after 'bad injury' in Liverpool's loss vs PSG

Barcelona's Champions League run ended with 2-1 loss against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of quarter-final on Tuesday (Apr 14). The Spanish giants lost the two-legged round of 8 with 3-2 aggregate loss, having lost the first leg 2-0 last week at home, Camp Nou. Both the matches saw one Barca player getting a red card, making them play with 10-man team. On Tuesday (Apr 14), Eric Garcia was handed the red card in the 79th minute - a controversial decision - which injured Barca player Raphina described at stealing by the referees. To add to the insult, Fermin Lopez suffered a horrific injury in the game as well.<h2>Why Garcia was given red card in Barcelona vs Atletico?</h2>In the 79th minute of the game, Garcia was found guilty of pulling down Atletico's Alexander Sorloth. Referee Clement Turpin checked the VAR review before sending centre-back out of the pitch. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Pedri lost the ball due to his careless spinning which led to Eric Garcia’s red and the tie being over. Will anybody talk about this tho? Probably not! <a href="https://t.co/iqgW4UAJ0k">pic.twitter.com/iqgW4UAJ0k</a>&mdash; َ (@Asensii20) <a href="https://twitter.com/Asensii20/status/2044167765758464415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Holding nothing back, Raphina came out all guns blazing against Turpin and said to reporters after the game: "As far as I’m concerned, it was ‌a robbery, not just this match but the other one (the first leg) as well. I ‌think ⁠the refereeing is going really badly; the decisions ⁠he (Turpin) makes are unbelievable ... I really want to understand why they’re so afraid that Barcelona will come and win."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-dembele-brace-ensures-psg-brush-aside-liverpool-to-enter-last-4-1776220190057">Champions League | Dembele brace helps PSG brush past Liverpool to enter last 4</a><h2>Barcelona lose appeal against first-leg red card as well</h2>Before the second leg, Barcelona suffered another jolt when they lost the appeal for an incident from the first leg. Atletico's Marc Pubill had handled the ball and Barcelona appealed to UEFA against not getting a penalty. The European football body, however, rejected the appeal and deemed it inadmissible."Following the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg between Barcelona and Atlético, Barcelona filed a protest relating to a referee decision," read a short statement by UEFA on Tuesday. "The UEFA Control Ethics and Disciplinary Body has declared the protest to be inadmissible."<h2>Lopez injury adds salt out wounds</h2>Fermin Lopez tried to score the third goal for his team but instead got the boot, literally. He dived in the opposition box for a header but Atletico goalkeeper's boot found his face after the header went wide. The impact left Lopez gushing blood as the game stopped, allowing him to get medical attention and recover.

In the 79th minute of the game, Garcia was found guilty of pulling down Atletico's Alexander Sorloth. Referee Clement Turpin checked the VAR review before sending centre-back out of the pitch. 

Barcelona's Champions League run ended with 2-1 loss against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of quarter-final on Tuesday (Apr 14). The Spanish giants lost the two-legged round of 8 with 3-2 aggregate loss, having lost the first leg 2-0 last week at home, Camp Nou. Both the matches saw one Barca player getting a red card, making them play with 10-man team. On Tuesday (Apr 14), Eric Garcia was handed the red card in the 79th minute - a controversial decision - which injured Barca player Raphina described at stealing by the referees. To add to the insult, Fermin Lopez suffered a horrific injury in the game as well. Why Garcia was given red card in Barcelona vs Atletico? In the 79th minute of the game, Garcia was found guilty of pulling down Atletico's Alexander Sorloth. Referee Clement Turpin checked the VAR review before sending centre-back out of the pitch. Have a look at the video below:

In the 79th minute of the game, Garcia was found guilty of pulling down Atletico's Alexander Sorloth. Referee Clement Turpin checked the VAR review before sending centre-back out of the pitch.&nbsp;

Champions League | 'Red cards, denied appeal & boot to face': How Barcelona's season came to an end

Ousmane Dembele's double guided Paris Saint-Germain into the Champions League semi-finals as a 2-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday completed a 4-0 aggregate win for the holders. To compound the English champions' woes, Hugo Ekitike suffered a serious-looking injury that could end his season and hinder Liverpool's chances of being back among Europe's elite next season. Arne Slot's men sit fifth in the Premier League and will end the campaign trophyless after being kept at arm's reach by a PSG side that did not need to be at their brilliant best to reach a third consecutive semi-final. Defeat means there will be no glorious goodbye for Mohamed Salah after nine memorable years on Merseyside.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atletico-madrid-hold-barcelona-at-bay-to-enter-semis-1776219691249">Champions League | Atletico Madrid hold Barcelona at bay to enter semis</a>Slot showed little sentiment as he dropped the Egyptian to the bench on his final Champions League appearance in red.Alexander Isak was preferred up front as the most expensive player in Premier League history started for the first time since breaking his leg in December.However, Salah was forced into action after just half an hour as Ekitike suffered a nasty-looking injury that could ruin his World Cup hopes with France.The former PSG striker crumpled in a heap holding his lower right leg with a suspected ruptured Achilles.Salah nearly made an immediate impact as from his cross Matvey Safonov made a fine save from Milos Kerkez before Marquinhos produced a remarkable block to deny Virgil van Dijk the opening goal.PSG had plenty of chances to have put the tie to bed in the Parc des Princes last week and were profligate once more in the first half.Giorgi Mamardashvili scrambled back towards his line to punch away Dembele's attempted chip before the Ballon d'Or winner blazed over from close range with just the Georgian to beat.Slot admitted before kick-off that Isak could only last for 45 minutes due to a lack of match practice and the Swede made way for Cody Gakpo at half-time in a further blow to Liverpool's firepower up front.<h2>Dembele kills tie off</h2>Kerkez had the best chance to set up a grandstand finale when he sliced wide another inviting Salah delivery.Liverpool thought they had been gifted a lifeline when Alexis Mac Allister was awarded a very generous penalty for minimal contact by Willian Pacho, but VAR intervened to instruct referee Maurizio Mariani to reverse his original decision.But as Liverpool poured forward in desperation, they became a sitting duck for the rapid PSG counter-attack.Dembele finally killed the tie off 18 minutes from time when he cut onto his left foot and curled into the bottom corner from outside the box.The French international then inflicted the final blow with a cool finish from Bradley Barcola's cross in stoppage time.PSG will face a tougher test against the in-form Bayern Munich or 15-time winners Real Madrid in the last four.But after ending the Qatari-backed French champions' long wait to conquer Europe last season, Luis Enrique's men remain on course to become the only side other than Madrid to retain the competition in the Champions League era.

Arne Slot's men sit fifth in the Premier League and will end the campaign trophyless after being kept at arm's reach by a PSG side that did not need to be at their brilliant best to reach a third consecutive semi-final.

Ousmane Dembele's double guided Paris Saint-Germain into the Champions League semi-finals as a 2-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday completed a 4-0 aggregate win for the holders. To compound the English champions' woes, Hugo Ekitike suffered a serious-looking injury that could end his season and hinder Liverpool's chances of being back among Europe's elite next season. Arne Slot's men sit fifth in the Premier League and will end the campaign trophyless after being kept at arm's reach by a PSG side that did not need to be at their brilliant best to reach a third consecutive semi-final. Defeat means there will be no glorious goodbye for Mohamed Salah after nine memorable years on Merseyside. Also Read - Champions League | Atletico Madrid hold Barcelona at bay to enter semis Slot showed little sentiment as he dropped the Egyptian to the bench on his final Champions League appearance in red. Alexander Isak was preferred up front as the most expensive player in Premier League history started for the first time since breaking his leg in December. However, Salah was forced into action after just half an hour as Ekitike suffered a nasty-looking injury that could ruin his World Cup hopes with France. The former PSG striker crumpled in a heap holding his lower right leg with a suspected ruptured Achilles. Salah nearly made an immediate impact as from his cross Matvey Safonov made a fine save from Milos Kerkez before Marquinhos produced a remarkable block to deny Virgil van Dijk the opening goal. PSG had plenty of chances to have put the tie to bed in the Parc des Princes last week and were profligate once more in the first half. Giorgi Mamardashvili scrambled back towards his line to punch away Dembele's attempted chip before the Ballon d'Or winner blazed over from close range with just the Georgian to beat. Slot admitted before kick-off that Isak could only last for 45 minutes due to a lack of match practice and the Swede made way for Cody Gakpo at half-time in a further blow to Liverpool's firepower up front. Dembele kills tie off Kerkez had the best chance to set up a grandstand finale when he sliced wide another inviting Salah delivery. Liverpool thought they had been gifted a lifeline when Alexis Mac Allister was awarded a very generous penalty for minimal contact by Willian Pacho, but VAR intervened to instruct referee Maurizio Mariani to reverse his original decision. But as Liverpool poured forward in desperation, they became a sitting duck for the rapid PSG counter-attack. Dembele finally killed the tie off 18 minutes from time when he cut onto his left foot and curled into the bottom corner from outside the box. The French international then inflicted the final blow with a cool finish from Bradley Barcola's cross in stoppage time. PSG will face a tougher test against the in-form Bayern Munich or 15-time winners Real Madrid in the last four. But after ending the Qatari-backed French champions' long wait to conquer Europe last season, Luis Enrique's men remain on course to become the only side other than Madrid to retain the competition in the Champions League era.

Arne Slot's men sit fifth in the Premier League and will end the campaign trophyless after being kept at arm's reach by a PSG side that did not need to be at their brilliant best to reach a third consecutive semi-final.

Champions League | Dembele brace ensures PSG brush aside Liverpool to enter last 4

Atletico Madrid sent 10-man Barcelona crashing out of the Champions League and reached the final four with a 3-2 aggregate victory despite Tuesday's 2-1 quarter-final second leg defeat. Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres fired visitors Barca ahead inside 24 minutes but Ademola Lookman's strike gave Atletico the edge in the gripping all-Spanish tie once again after their 2-0 win in the first leg. Diego Simeone's side returned to the semi-finals for the first time since 2017 by holding on against the La Liga champions in a compelling and bloody battle. Barcelona defender Eric Garcia was sent off for bringing down Alexander Sorloth as he ran in on goal in the final stages, hampering their chances of finding a third goal to force extra-time.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-watch-man-utd-s-martinez-gets-red-card-3-match-suspension-for-pulling-hair-of-leeds-calvert-lewin-1776144279636">Man Utd's Martinez gets red card &amp; 3-match suspension for pulling hair</a>Atletico, who have never won the competition and lost the 2014 and 2016 finals with Simeone at the helm, will face Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals."(We're) very happy, knocking out a great Barca side. We had a great game away... it was really hard for us at the start (of this one), but the team knew how to get back on its feet," Atletico midfielder Koke told Movistar.Barcelona last won the Champions League in 2015 and their wait for a sixth crown continues, but midfielder Frenkie de Jong said that the club was on the right path despite their elimination."I think we had a very good game, we gave our lives out there, we tried everything," said the Dutchman."I feel like luck was not on our side. We have to continue -- we're on a good path, we're growing every year."Barca coach Hansi Flick benched forwards Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski for workhorses Torres and Gavi, looking to press Atletico relentlessly in the sixth match between these sides this season.Goalkeeper Juan Musso tipped a Yamal effort around his post after just 32 seconds, with Barca roaring out of the blocks in a fiery atmosphere at the Metropolitano stadium.The teenage winger fired the visitors ahead after just four minutes when he harried Clement Lenglet into giving the ball away.Torres nudged it back to Yamal who slipped a low shot through Musso's legs to hush the home fans and ignite Barca's attempted comeback bid.Dani Olmo nearly grabbed a second but Musso was able to reach his attempted lob as Barca continued to dominate.Antoine Griezmann had a shot deflected wide as Atletico showed occasional flashes, mostly through enterprising winger Lookman, who gave Jules Kounde a difficult night.Barcelona doubled their lead in the 24th minute to level the tie on aggregate when Torres left Lenglet trailing, reached Olmo's pass and fired across Musso into the top corner.Fermin Lopez could have notched Barca's third but Musso clawed out his header and left the midfielder bleeding after his boot caught the Spaniard in the face.Atletico pulled their way back into the game in the 31st minute after Barca switched off defensively for the first time.Marcos Llorente charged in down the right behind the Catalans' high defensive line and crossed for Lookman to convert.<h2>Another red card</h2>Barcelona were frustrated early in the second half when Torres volleyed home but the goal was disallowed for offside.Flick sent on Rashford and Lewandowski with around 20 minutes remaining to find the goal that last season's semi-finalists needed.Barca stopper Joan Garcia made a fine save with his leg to thwart Robin Le Normand from close range as Atletico almost pulled level on the night.Matteo Ruggieri was left with blood streaming down his face after Gavi caught him with an elbow, with tensions rising.The game spun away from Barca when Eric Garcia was sent off for clipping Sorloth's heels as he ran through on goal, similar to Pau Cubarsi's red card in the first leg.Flick threw centre-back Ronald Araujo up front for the final stages but there was no way back and Atletico gritted their teeth through eight minutes of stoppage time before the celebrations could begin.

Atletico, who have never won the competition and lost the 2014 and 2016 finals with Simeone at the helm, will face Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals.

Atletico Madrid sent 10-man Barcelona crashing out of the Champions League and reached the final four with a 3-2 aggregate victory despite Tuesday's 2-1 quarter-final second leg defeat. Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres fired visitors Barca ahead inside 24 minutes but Ademola Lookman's strike gave Atletico the edge in the gripping all-Spanish tie once again after their 2-0 win in the first leg. Diego Simeone's side returned to the semi-finals for the first time since 2017 by holding on against the La Liga champions in a compelling and bloody battle. Barcelona defender Eric Garcia was sent off for bringing down Alexander Sorloth as he ran in on goal in the final stages, hampering their chances of finding a third goal to force extra-time. Also Watch - Man Utd's Martinez gets red card & 3-match suspension for pulling hair Atletico, who have never won the competition and lost the 2014 and 2016 finals with Simeone at the helm, will face Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals. "(We're) very happy, knocking out a great Barca side. We had a great game away... it was really hard for us at the start (of this one), but the team knew how to get back on its feet," Atletico midfielder Koke told Movistar. Barcelona last won the Champions League in 2015 and their wait for a sixth crown continues, but midfielder Frenkie de Jong said that the club was on the right path despite their elimination. "I think we had a very good game, we gave our lives out there, we tried everything," said the Dutchman. "I feel like luck was not on our side. We have to continue -- we're on a good path, we're growing every year." Barca coach Hansi Flick benched forwards Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski for workhorses Torres and Gavi, looking to press Atletico relentlessly in the sixth match between these sides this season. Goalkeeper Juan Musso tipped a Yamal effort around his post after just 32 seconds, with Barca roaring out of the blocks in a fiery atmosphere at the Metropolitano stadium. The teenage winger fired the visitors ahead after just four minutes when he harried Clement Lenglet into giving the ball away. Torres nudged it back to Yamal who slipped a low shot through Musso's legs to hush the home fans and ignite Barca's attempted comeback bid. Dani Olmo nearly grabbed a second but Musso was able to reach his attempted lob as Barca continued to dominate. Antoine Griezmann had a shot deflected wide as Atletico showed occasional flashes, mostly through enterprising winger Lookman, who gave Jules Kounde a difficult night. Barcelona doubled their lead in the 24th minute to level the tie on aggregate when Torres left Lenglet trailing, reached Olmo's pass and fired across Musso into the top corner. Fermin Lopez could have notched Barca's third but Musso clawed out his header and left the midfielder bleeding after his boot caught the Spaniard in the face. Atletico pulled their way back into the game in the 31st minute after Barca switched off defensively for the first time. Marcos Llorente charged in down the right behind the Catalans' high defensive line and crossed for Lookman to convert. Another red card Barcelona were frustrated early in the second half when Torres volleyed home but the goal was disallowed for offside. Flick sent on Rashford and Lewandowski with around 20 minutes remaining to find the goal that last season's semi-finalists needed. Barca stopper Joan Garcia made a fine save with his leg to thwart Robin Le Normand from close range as Atletico almost pulled level on the night. Matteo Ruggieri was left with blood streaming down his face after Gavi caught him with an elbow, with tensions rising. The game spun away from Barca when Eric Garcia was sent off for clipping Sorloth's heels as he ran through on goal, similar to Pau Cubarsi's red card in the first leg. Flick threw centre-back Ronald Araujo up front for the final stages but there was no way back and Atletico gritted their teeth through eight minutes of stoppage time before the celebrations could begin.

Atletico, who have never won the competition and lost the 2014 and 2016 finals with Simeone at the helm, will face Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals.

Champions League | Atletico Madrid hold Barcelona at bay to enter semis

Liverpool coach Arne Slot has asked the Anfield faithful to show up in next week's Champions League in quarter-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The statement comes after Slot's Liverpool were thrashed 2-0 on Wednesday (Apr 8) in first leg at PSG's home Parc des Princes. Slot was upbeat about the comeback and said that the PSG kept Liverpool alive by not scoring on open chances. For PSG, Desire Doue scored in 11th minute while Kavicha Kvaratskhelia doubled the lead in 65th minute. Liverpool could just never get going and are in 'survival mode' as said by Slot.<h2>Slot thanks PSG for 'keeping Liverpool alive'</h2>"PSG was the better team but we didn’t give up and that’s why we have a chance now still in this tie. They kept us alive by not scoring a few open chances. And now we can bring the tie back to Anfield," said Slot after the match. "You try to find ways to make sure their qualities are not seen that much but that’s really hard against this team. Last season we were in survival mode as well [in the first leg in Paris]."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-thank-you-germany-barca-coach-flick-furious-after-atletico-s-pubill-not-given-red-card-despite-handling-ball-watch-1775703675750">'Thank you Germany' Barca coach Flick furious after Atletico's Pubill not given red card despite handling ball</a>Slot has also asked the fans to show up at Anfield next week as they try to advance in the tournament. "Football has shown so many times that everything is possible," Slot said. "Red cards, incidents, penalties yes or no, and don’t forget that Anfield can do a lot. Our fans do make a big difference for us. But that’s also needed because I think it was completely clear today that we need our fans more than ever if we face this Paris Saint-Germain team."<h2>Atletico Madrid almost outs Barcelona</h2>In the other match of the night, Atletico Madrid beat Barcelona 2-0 at Camp Nou. Both the goals against the Spanish giants came after Pau Cubrasi was given a red card in the 44th minute. Taking advantage of the situation, Julian Alvarez put Atletico Madrid 1-0 ahead in the 45th minute before Alexander Sorloth doubled the lead in 70th minute.

Slot was upbeat about the comeback and said that the PSG kept Liverpool alive by not scoring on open chances. For PSG, Desire Doue scored in 11th minute while Kavicha Kvaratskhelia doubled lead in 65th minute. Liverpool could just never get going and are in 'survival mode' as said by Slot.

Liverpool coach Arne Slot has asked the Anfield faithful to show up in next week's Champions League in quarter-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The statement comes after Slot's Liverpool were thrashed 2-0 on Wednesday (Apr 8) in first leg at PSG's home Parc des Princes. Slot was upbeat about the comeback and said that the PSG kept Liverpool alive by not scoring on open chances. For PSG, Desire Doue scored in 11th minute while Kavicha Kvaratskhelia doubled the lead in 65th minute. Liverpool could just never get going and are in 'survival mode' as said by Slot. Slot thanks PSG for 'keeping Liverpool alive' "PSG was the better team but we didn’t give up and that’s why we have a chance now still in this tie. They kept us alive by not scoring a few open chances. And now we can bring the tie back to Anfield," said Slot after the match. "You try to find ways to make sure their qualities are not seen that much but that’s really hard against this team. Last season we were in survival mode as well [in the first leg in Paris]." Also Read - 'Thank you Germany' Barca coach Flick furious after Atletico's Pubill not given red card despite handling ball Slot has also asked the fans to show up at Anfield next week as they try to advance in the tournament. "Football has shown so many times that everything is possible," Slot said. "Red cards, incidents, penalties yes or no, and don’t forget that Anfield can do a lot. Our fans do make a big difference for us. But that’s also needed because I think it was completely clear today that we need our fans more than ever if we face this Paris Saint-Germain team." Atletico Madrid almost outs Barcelona In the other match of the night, Atletico Madrid beat Barcelona 2-0 at Camp Nou. Both the goals against the Spanish giants came after Pau Cubrasi was given a red card in the 44th minute. Taking advantage of the situation, Julian Alvarez put Atletico Madrid 1-0 ahead in the 45th minute before Alexander Sorloth doubled the lead in 70th minute.

Slot was upbeat about the comeback and said that the PSG kept Liverpool alive by not scoring on open chances. For PSG, Desire Doue scored in 11th minute while Kavicha Kvaratskhelia doubled lead in 65th minute. Liverpool could just never get going and are in 'survival mode' as said by Slot.

Champions League | Slot says PSG kept Liverpool alive 'by not scoring on open chances'

Barcelona are hanging by a thread in the Champions League after losing 0-2 to Atletico Madrid in quarter-final first leg on Wednesday (Apr 8) at Camp Nou. Both the goals against the Spanish giants came after Pau Cubrasi was given a red card in the 44th minute. Taking advantage of the situation, Julian Alvarez put Atletico Madrid 1-0 ahead in the 45th minute before Alexander Sorloth doubled the lead in 70th minute. Barca would have to do a lot next week, that too in an away game, if they are to advance in the competition. Barca coach Hansi Flick, meanwhile, has called out the VAR referee for not acknowledging an Atletico player touching the ball with hand after a goal kick in the match.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-agents-don-t-execute-search-warrants-or-carry-weapons-in-canada-says-us-ice-ahead-of-fifa-event-1775640377035">FIFA WC 2026 | 'ICE agents don't carry weapons in Canada,' says US agency</a><h2>Hansi Flick doesn't hold back against VAR referee</h2>The incident happened when Marc Pubill of Atletico Madrid decided to handle the ball but no referee or VAR intervened. The ball came to Pubill after goal kick inside the box but instead of continuing with the game, he decided to grab it and give it back to the keeper. Flick was not at all amused by it. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Que poco se habló de esto, no? Musso apoya la pelota y la pone en juego con el pie, pero Marc Pubill (amonestado) la agarra con la mano y saca de nuevo. El árbitro y el VAR no quisieron comprarse un problema. En mis libros, penalazo no cobrado a Barcelona. <a href="https://t.co/LALqzB98P3">pic.twitter.com/LALqzB98P3</a>&mdash; Santi Feldman (@SantiFeldman) <a href="https://twitter.com/SantiFeldman/status/2041984389060440360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"I don’t know about Cubarsí’s sending off, it could be red or it couldn’t be. I’m not sure if he touches him enough. The ball was behind them. But the situation in which they touch the ball with their hand in the area and I don’t understand why VAR doesn’t come in. It’s normal to make mistakes, but this type of situation, why do we have VAR? It should be a penalty and a second yellow, red," Hansi Flick was quoted as saying by football Espana."The VAR has been quite favoured towards Atletico… he was a German (referee). Thank you Germany. I don’t know what happens in a situation in which a goalkeeper starts to play and the defender stops it with his hand, for me it’s a second yellow and also a penalty. Let’s see if they can explain it to us," Flick added.

The incident happened when Marc Pubill of Atletico Madrid decided to handle the ball but no referee or VAR intervened. The ball came to Pubill after goal kick inside the box but instead of continuing with the game, he decided to grab it and give it back to the keeper.

Barcelona are hanging by a thread in the Champions League after losing 0-2 to Atletico Madrid in quarter-final first leg on Wednesday (Apr 8) at Camp Nou. Both the goals against the Spanish giants came after Pau Cubrasi was given a red card in the 44th minute. Taking advantage of the situation, Julian Alvarez put Atletico Madrid 1-0 ahead in the 45th minute before Alexander Sorloth doubled the lead in 70th minute. Barca would have to do a lot next week, that too in an away game, if they are to advance in the competition. Barca coach Hansi Flick, meanwhile, has called out the VAR referee for not acknowledging an Atletico player touching the ball with hand after a goal kick in the match. Also Read - FIFA WC 2026 | 'ICE agents don't carry weapons in Canada,' says US agency Hansi Flick doesn't hold back against VAR referee The incident happened when Marc Pubill of Atletico Madrid decided to handle the ball but no referee or VAR intervened. The ball came to Pubill after goal kick inside the box but instead of continuing with the game, he decided to grab it and give it back to the keeper. Flick was not at all amused by it. Have a look at the video below:

The incident happened when Marc Pubill of Atletico Madrid decided to handle the ball but no referee or VAR intervened. The ball came to Pubill after goal kick inside the box but instead of continuing with the game, he decided to grab it and give it back to the keeper.

Champions League | 'Thank you Germany' Barca coach Flick furious after Atletico's Pubill not given red card despite handling ball - WATCH

Six-time European champions Liverpool face reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain in a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final clash. Despite a major boost with Alexander Isak returning to the squad, confidence among Liverpool fans appears to be at an all-time low. With recent performances raising serious doubts, many fear a heavy defeat against PSG. Has Arne Slot lost the trust of the fans or can Liverpool rise once again on a big European night?


UCL: Liverpool Get Isak Boost, But Fans Fear PSG Thrashing

Champions League | Arsenal beat Sporting 1-0 while Bayern Munich beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of quarter-final on Tuesday (Apr 7). The sides will face off in the second leg a week later.

Champions League | Arsenal vs Sporting & Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid - check full result

When Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool last met in the Champions League a year ago, the Anfield outfit were marching towards the Premier League title and were described as "an almost perfect team" by the French club's coach Luis Enrique. Fast forward to this season and a formidable PSG appear clear favourites as the sides clash again in the Champions League quarter-finals, with the first leg in Paris on Wednesday. PSG's triumph on penalties against Liverpool in the last 16 last season was pivotal on their run to a first ever Champions League title.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-hope-for-champions-league-luck-to-come-back-against-bayern-munich-1775443208566">Real Madrid hope for Champions League luck to come back against Bayern Munich</a>They had to overturn a 1-0 defeat at home in a first leg they completely dominated before holding their nerve at Anfield, and the two teams have set off on different trajectories since.Arne Slot's side somewhat ran out of steam after that, albeit having done more than enough to get over the line in the Premier League.This season has been a huge disappointment, however, and they return to Paris in especially downbeat mood after a chastening 4-0 defeat against Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals.<h2>‘So tough’</h2>That had Slot saying his team lacked fighting spirit, while captain Virgil van Dijk suggested they had given up and admitted it would be "very difficult" for Liverpool to lift themselves against PSG."But we have a responsibility, not only to ourselves but especially to the fans and, if we want to make something out of this season, we have to try and do something special in the next three games," he said, with the Champions League tie taking place either side of an awkward clash with Fulham."The matter of fact is now, PSG are waiting for us. It will be so tough again. So we have to be ready mentally as soon as possible," Van Dijk added.Liverpool have won just one of their last five matches and have suffered 15 defeats in this campaign.Securing a return to Europe's top table for next season has to be the main aim now for a team currently lying fifth in the Premier League.PSG, in contrast, have had a tricky season at times due to injuries but look like they might be returning to their very best form at the right time.A 3-1 win over Toulouse last Friday, featuring one marvellous goal from reigning Ballon d'Or Ousmane Dembele, helped them extend their lead atop Ligue 1 to four points from nearest challengers Lens, with a game in hand.But the Champions League is what really matters -- the French league even accepted their request to postpone this Saturday's key trip to Lens to allow them to concentrate fully on Liverpool."I think we have shown for a long time that we are ready, regardless of the competition, but there are obviously things we can improve," warned Luis Enrique.Dembele is fully fit and firing, but Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the inspiration in the last round, when PSG destroyed Chelsea 8-2 on aggregate -- Wednesday's game will be their 14th against Premier League opposition since January 2025.<h2>Ekitike back in Paris</h2>There is one obvious weakness in PSG's ranks, however -- they have not successfully replaced goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the hero in last season's shoot-out against Liverpool who is now at Manchester City.Lucas Chevalier was signed as the Italian's successor but has lost his place to Matvey Safonov, the Russian who made two glaring mistakes to cost his side a goal at the weekend."A goalkeeper is like any other player. They can make mistakes, because that's normal in football," said Luis Enrique.The key for the visitors, meanwhile, could be Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool's leading scorer this season with 17 goals, who comes up against the club where he failed to make an impact earlier in his career.Ekitike, 23, joined PSG from Reims in 2022 but scored just four goals in 18 months before leaving for Eintracht Frankfurt.He struggled to break into an attack featuring Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar but returns to his homeland as a genuine contender to start for France at the World Cup."Hugo is a great player. He is really in form so we are just hoping he won't be against us," said PSG's Dembele, his international teammate.

PSG had to overturn a 1-0 defeat at home in a first leg they completely dominated last season before holding their nerve at Anfield, and the two teams have set off on different trajectories since.

When Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool last met in the Champions League a year ago, the Anfield outfit were marching towards the Premier League title and were described as "an almost perfect team" by the French club's coach Luis Enrique. Fast forward to this season and a formidable PSG appear clear favourites as the sides clash again in the Champions League quarter-finals, with the first leg in Paris on Wednesday. PSG's triumph on penalties against Liverpool in the last 16 last season was pivotal on their run to a first ever Champions League title. Also Read - Real Madrid hope for Champions League luck to come back against Bayern Munich They had to overturn a 1-0 defeat at home in a first leg they completely dominated before holding their nerve at Anfield, and the two teams have set off on different trajectories since. Arne Slot's side somewhat ran out of steam after that, albeit having done more than enough to get over the line in the Premier League. This season has been a huge disappointment, however, and they return to Paris in especially downbeat mood after a chastening 4-0 defeat against Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals. ‘So tough’ That had Slot saying his team lacked fighting spirit, while captain Virgil van Dijk suggested they had given up and admitted it would be "very difficult" for Liverpool to lift themselves against PSG. "But we have a responsibility, not only to ourselves but especially to the fans and, if we want to make something out of this season, we have to try and do something special in the next three games," he said, with the Champions League tie taking place either side of an awkward clash with Fulham. "The matter of fact is now, PSG are waiting for us. It will be so tough again. So we have to be ready mentally as soon as possible," Van Dijk added. Liverpool have won just one of their last five matches and have suffered 15 defeats in this campaign. Securing a return to Europe's top table for next season has to be the main aim now for a team currently lying fifth in the Premier League. PSG, in contrast, have had a tricky season at times due to injuries but look like they might be returning to their very best form at the right time. A 3-1 win over Toulouse last Friday, featuring one marvellous goal from reigning Ballon d'Or Ousmane Dembele, helped them extend their lead atop Ligue 1 to four points from nearest challengers Lens, with a game in hand. But the Champions League is what really matters -- the French league even accepted their request to postpone this Saturday's key trip to Lens to allow them to concentrate fully on Liverpool. "I think we have shown for a long time that we are ready, regardless of the competition, but there are obviously things we can improve," warned Luis Enrique. Dembele is fully fit and firing, but Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the inspiration in the last round, when PSG destroyed Chelsea 8-2 on aggregate -- Wednesday's game will be their 14th against Premier League opposition since January 2025. Ekitike back in Paris There is one obvious weakness in PSG's ranks, however -- they have not successfully replaced goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, the hero in last season's shoot-out against Liverpool who is now at Manchester City. Lucas Chevalier was signed as the Italian's successor but has lost his place to Matvey Safonov, the Russian who made two glaring mistakes to cost his side a goal at the weekend. "A goalkeeper is like any other player. They can make mistakes, because that's normal in football," said Luis Enrique. The key for the visitors, meanwhile, could be Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool's leading scorer this season with 17 goals, who comes up against the club where he failed to make an impact earlier in his career. Ekitike, 23, joined PSG from Reims in 2022 but scored just four goals in 18 months before leaving for Eintracht Frankfurt. He struggled to break into an attack featuring Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar but returns to his homeland as a genuine contender to start for France at the World Cup. "Hugo is a great player. He is really in form so we are just hoping he won't be against us," said PSG's Dembele, his international teammate.

PSG had to overturn a 1-0 defeat at home in a first leg they completely dominated last season before holding their nerve at Anfield, and the two teams have set off on different trajectories since.

Champions League | PSG aim to continue good form against struggling Liverpool

Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich visit Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League quarter-finals high on confidence and looking like Europe's most complete side, bolstered by the likely return of superstar striker Harry Kane. Record 15-time winners Madrid have endured a difficult season, plagued by inconsistency, but have made a habit of pulling off the unexpected in this competition. Just as it seemed their well of Champions League magic was running dry, Madrid produced their best performance of the season to crush Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the last 16.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erling-haaland-hat-trick-helps-man-city-thrash-liverpool-to-reach-fa-cup-semis-1775315949507">Erling Haaland hat-trick helps Man City thrash Liverpool to reach FA Cup semis</a>Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy."It would be presumptuous to assume that we'll definitely advance," said honorary Bayern president Uli Hoeness. "But we haven't had such great chances in terms of the playing quality as we have this year in a long time."Kane, who has scored 48 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this season, missed Bayern's battling 3-2 Bundesliga win at Freiburg on Saturday with an ankle issue."He'd play in a wheelchair," said Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, while Kompany added that he had "a feeling" that the England striker would be ready.With Michael Olise and Luis Diaz joining Kane in attack, Kompany's side play an aggressive, high-pressing style which helped them demolish Atalanta in the last 16, 10-2 on aggregate.Bayern came from two goals down to beat Freiburg and match-winner Lennart Karl said that fighting spirit was crucial heading into the Madrid clash."It gives us a lot of confidence. It was very important -- we actually feel unbeatable at the moment," he said, with Bayern's last defeat coming in January, 14 matches ago.In that same period Madrid have lost four times, with coach Alvaro Arbeloa struggling to find the right balance when all his superstars are fit, just like Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti before him."They're not playing the best football, but they're outstanding in terms of experience," noted Hoeness.<h2>Bernabeu factor</h2>Madrid fell to a disappointing defeat at Mallorca in La Liga on Saturday, leaving them seven points behind rivals Barcelona in the Spanish title race.Arbeloa brushed off the loss and said it would have no bearing on his team's performance against Bayern, in the club's favoured competition."I know what my players are capable of, I know they understand the importance of Tuesday's game," Arbeloa told reporters."The demand on the team will be maximum and I know the support that Madrid fans will offer us -- with them, everything is easier."Bayern are well aware of the impact of Madrid's supporters on big European nights at the Bernabeu, which, along with the weight of history and sublime individual quality, helps Los Blancos pull off remarkable results even when the odds are against them."It's the stadium and the fans who, together with the team, transform into a hurricane that sweeps over the opponent," said Bayern powerbroker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge."You need nerves of steel, you have to stay calm, and you have to be mentally prepared... it's not just an ordinary game. It will be the toughest test."Two Bayern players who understand that more than most are goalkeepers Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich, who have both cracked in the Bernabeu pressure cooker before.In the 2018 semi-final Ulreich went to pick up a back pass before suddenly realising his mistake and let it run past him, with Karim Benzema tapping into the empty net.Madrid went on to win that tie, as they have on all of the last four knockouts against Bayern. In each of those years, they went on to lift the trophy.In the 2024 semi-finals former Stoke City striker Joselu struck twice in the dying embers of the second leg, the first after a Neuer handling error, to send Bayern crashing out.No teams have faced each other more in the competition, with Tuesday's match the 29th occasion Madrid will meet Bayern.The German giants last eliminated Los Blancos in 2012 but believe they finally have the quality this year to rewrite the narrative of the last decade.

Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy.

Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich visit Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League quarter-finals high on confidence and looking like Europe's most complete side, bolstered by the likely return of superstar striker Harry Kane. Record 15-time winners Madrid have endured a difficult season, plagued by inconsistency, but have made a habit of pulling off the unexpected in this competition. Just as it seemed their well of Champions League magic was running dry, Madrid produced their best performance of the season to crush Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the last 16. Also Read - Erling Haaland hat-trick helps Man City thrash Liverpool to reach FA Cup semis Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy. "It would be presumptuous to assume that we'll definitely advance," said honorary Bayern president Uli Hoeness. "But we haven't had such great chances in terms of the playing quality as we have this year in a long time." Kane, who has scored 48 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this season, missed Bayern's battling 3-2 Bundesliga win at Freiburg on Saturday with an ankle issue. "He'd play in a wheelchair," said Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, while Kompany added that he had "a feeling" that the England striker would be ready. With Michael Olise and Luis Diaz joining Kane in attack, Kompany's side play an aggressive, high-pressing style which helped them demolish Atalanta in the last 16, 10-2 on aggregate. Bayern came from two goals down to beat Freiburg and match-winner Lennart Karl said that fighting spirit was crucial heading into the Madrid clash. "It gives us a lot of confidence. It was very important -- we actually feel unbeatable at the moment," he said, with Bayern's last defeat coming in January, 14 matches ago. In that same period Madrid have lost four times, with coach Alvaro Arbeloa struggling to find the right balance when all his superstars are fit, just like Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti before him. "They're not playing the best football, but they're outstanding in terms of experience," noted Hoeness. Bernabeu factor Madrid fell to a disappointing defeat at Mallorca in La Liga on Saturday, leaving them seven points behind rivals Barcelona in the Spanish title race. Arbeloa brushed off the loss and said it would have no bearing on his team's performance against Bayern, in the club's favoured competition. "I know what my players are capable of, I know they understand the importance of Tuesday's game," Arbeloa told reporters. "The demand on the team will be maximum and I know the support that Madrid fans will offer us -- with them, everything is easier." Bayern are well aware of the impact of Madrid's supporters on big European nights at the Bernabeu, which, along with the weight of history and sublime individual quality, helps Los Blancos pull off remarkable results even when the odds are against them. "It's the stadium and the fans who, together with the team, transform into a hurricane that sweeps over the opponent," said Bayern powerbroker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "You need nerves of steel, you have to stay calm, and you have to be mentally prepared... it's not just an ordinary game. It will be the toughest test." Two Bayern players who understand that more than most are goalkeepers Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich, who have both cracked in the Bernabeu pressure cooker before. In the 2018 semi-final Ulreich went to pick up a back pass before suddenly realising his mistake and let it run past him, with Karim Benzema tapping into the empty net. Madrid went on to win that tie, as they have on all of the last four knockouts against Bayern. In each of those years, they went on to lift the trophy. In the 2024 semi-finals former Stoke City striker Joselu struck twice in the dying embers of the second leg, the first after a Neuer handling error, to send Bayern crashing out. No teams have faced each other more in the competition, with Tuesday's match the 29th occasion Madrid will meet Bayern. The German giants last eliminated Los Blancos in 2012 but believe they finally have the quality this year to rewrite the narrative of the last decade.

Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy.

Real Madrid hope for Champions League luck to come back against Bayern Munich

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

Champions League | Who's in and who's out? - Check all teams in quarter-finals and last 8 match-ups

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-host-iran-football-world-cup-matches-if-fifa-approves-mexico-president-us-donald-trump-1773770109017">'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President</a>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish.Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour."We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus.PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg.Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm.Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season.<h2>Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt</h2>Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night."All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running.Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match.Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success.They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice.Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen."We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta.His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals.The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon.Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time.Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end.Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had. Also Read - 'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish. Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour. "We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus. PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate. Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm. Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season. Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night. "All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running. Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match. Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success. They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice. Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen. "We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta. His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals. The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon. Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time. Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end. Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Champions League | PSG, Real Madrid, Arsenal through last 8; Bodo/Glimt's fairy tale run ends

Barcelona snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat against Newcastle in Champions League R16 first match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at St James' Park but a Barca fan was left gutted. The Spanish fan, who had decided to travel from London to saw his team play, ended up 366 miles (590 km approx) away from the venue but still at St James Park. The stadium where he ended up going was Exeter City football club home ground - also called St James Park. The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad fan.<h2>How did Barcelona fan end up going 366 miles away from venue of Newcastle Champions League match?</h2>Adam Spencer, Exeter’s supporter experience officer, explained the situation as reported by the Guradian and said: "My guess is he’d put St James Park in his phone and then just followed the directions from there. He was pretty gutted and a bit embarrassed. So we sorted him out a ticket and he got to watch a game at the real St James Park. He’d be welcome back any time."Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-watch-chelsea-s-pedro-neto-shoves-ball-boy-during-humiliating-loss-vs-psg-1773281509463">Champions League | Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG</a>“One of our volunteers came to the office to let us know that this guy had turned up expecting to see FC ­Barcelona. His English wasn’t great, but from what we could gather, he’d come from London," Spencer also informed.<h2>What happened in the match?</h2>Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona but teenager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-watch-lamine-yamal-saves-barcelona-vs-newcastle-in-historic-ucl-appearance-1773192698176">Lamine Yamal had different plans</a>. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team.

 The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincold City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad Barcelona fan.

Barcelona snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat against Newcastle in Champions League R16 first match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at St James' Park but a Barca fan was left gutted. The Spanish fan, who had decided to travel from London to saw his team play, ended up 366 miles (590 km approx) away from the venue but still at St James Park. The stadium where he ended up going was Exeter City football club home ground - also called St James Park. The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad fan. How did Barcelona fan end up going 366 miles away from venue of Newcastle Champions League match? Adam Spencer, Exeter’s supporter experience officer, explained the situation as reported by the Guradian and said: "My guess is he’d put St James Park in his phone and then just followed the directions from there. He was pretty gutted and a bit embarrassed. So we sorted him out a ticket and he got to watch a game at the real St James Park. He’d be welcome back any time." Also Watch - Champions League | Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG “One of our volunteers came to the office to let us know that this guy had turned up expecting to see FC Barcelona. His English wasn’t great, but from what we could gather, he’d come from London," Spencer also informed. What happened in the match? Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona but teenager Lamine Yamal had different plans. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team.

&nbsp;The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad Barcelona fan.

Champions League | A fan thought he was at St James' Park to watch Barcelona vs Newcastle. He was off 600 km

Chelsea suffered a humiliating 5-2 loss against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday (Mar 11) in Champions League Round of 16 first leg match at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris. The Chelsea players did not take the invitable loss very well in the dying moments of the match as Pedro Neto shoved a ball boy to get the ball. The behaviour sparked criticism and scolding from the PSG players on ground and later on, Pedro agreed to letting 'emotions' getting better of him. The loss has put Chelsea on brink of exit from the European supremacy tournament with little chance of overcoming the deficit in the second leg next week.<h2>Why Chelsea's Pedro shoved ball boy during Champions League R16 match?</h2>The ball went out of bounds in the last minutes of the game and Pedro tryied to get the ball in the quickly. In doing so, he overstepped his authority and shoved the ball boy to get the hold of the football. The ball boy was doing his job, picking up the ball and waiting for the player to come and collect, Pedro instead became physical to get it like a bullying kid playing on the street. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">O Pedro Neto empurrou o gandula pra pegar a bola 😳 <a href="https://t.co/FvJMRcMZ5S">pic.twitter.com/FvJMRcMZ5S</a>&mdash; DataFut (@DataFutebol) <a href="https://twitter.com/DataFutebol/status/2031865685425504648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-r16-real-madrid-trounce-man-city-psg-sink-chelsea-and-arsenal-draw-against-levekusen-1773278285948">Champions League R16 | Real Madrid trounce Man City, PSG sink Chelsea</a>The move triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.<h2>What did Pedro Neto say about shoving the ball boy?</h2>The Chelsea player, after the match, came to his senses and acknowledged his mistake. “I want to come out and apologize for what happened on the pitch,” Neto told TNT Sports after the game. “I’ve spoken with the ball boy. With the emotions of the game, we were losing, I wanted to pick up the ball. I gave him a little push. I saw that I hurt him and I am sorry, as I’m not like this."To make up for his mistake, the Chelsea player "gave him (ball boy) my shirt as well. He was happy that I gave him the shirt and said sorry like, 35 times."

Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoving the ball boy vs PSG in Champions League R16 match triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.

Chelsea suffered a humiliating 5-2 loss against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday (Mar 11) in Champions League Round of 16 first leg match at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris. The Chelsea players did not take the invitable loss very well in the dying moments of the match as Pedro Neto shoved a ball boy to get the ball. The behaviour sparked criticism and scolding from the PSG players on ground and later on, Pedro agreed to letting 'emotions' getting better of him. The loss has put Chelsea on brink of exit from the European supremacy tournament with little chance of overcoming the deficit in the second leg next week. Why Chelsea's Pedro shoved ball boy during Champions League R16 match? The ball went out of bounds in the last minutes of the game and Pedro tryied to get the ball in the quickly. In doing so, he overstepped his authority and shoved the ball boy to get the hold of the football. The ball boy was doing his job, picking up the ball and waiting for the player to come and collect, Pedro instead became physical to get it like a bullying kid playing on the street. Have a look at the video below:

Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoving the ball boy vs PSG in Champions League R16 match triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.

Champions League | WATCH - Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-replace-iran-at-fifa-world-cup-2026-after-sports-minister-cannot-participate-claim-iraq-uae-donald-trump-israel-us-war-west-asia-conflict-1773246224722">Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim?</a>"(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this."Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running.The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz.City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian."I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week."In football you never know. We will try."PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes.Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level.Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto.A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time."It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form."There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team."Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on."A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said."We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't."<h2>Arsenal leave it late</h2>Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week.Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen.Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany.But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals."I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz."We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week."Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition.Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time.Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe. Also Read - Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim? "(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this." Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running. The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz. City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian. "I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week. "In football you never know. We will try." PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes. Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level. Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto. A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time. "It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form. "There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team." Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on. "A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said. "We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't." Arsenal leave it late Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week. Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen. Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany. But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals. "I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz. "We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week." Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition. Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time. Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Champions League R16 | Real Madrid trounce Man City, PSG sink Chelsea and Arsenal draw against Levekusen

Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona in the Champions League R16 first leg match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at the St. James Park but teenager Lamine Yamal had different plans. There were no goals in the match till 86th minute when Harvey Barnes scored one for the home team, almost sealing a win. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, however, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. With the first leg ending in a 1-1 draw, Barcelona will have the home advanatge in the second leg and the winner of the match will proceed to the next stage.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-fund-refunds-and-disciplinary-measures-what-happens-if-iran-pulls-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1773118066659">What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026</a><h2>How Lamine Yamal saved Barcelona in historic UCL appearance</h2>The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team. Have a look at his penalty kick which saved Barcelona from embarrassment:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Hablemos de Lamine Yamal cojones de toro -18 años -Penalti al último minuto para empatarlo -Lo tira perfecto -Celebración histórica Jugador completamente histórico <a href="https://t.co/UCrP7yPA4p">pic.twitter.com/UCrP7yPA4p</a>&mdash; Jeff (@JeffFcb14) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffFcb14/status/2031489645398122633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Before Yamal, the youngest to play 30 UCL matches was Warren Zaire-Emery for Paris Saint-Germain who reached the milestone aged 19 years and 227 days. Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas was 20 years and 207 days when he played his 30th UEFA Champions League match.<h2>What's next for Barcelona and Newcastle</h2>Both the teams will play one fixture each before facing each other in the second leg of Round of 16 Champions League match. Newcastle will go to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on Saturday (Mar 14) before taking on Barcelona on Wednesday (Mar 18) at Camp Nou.As for Barca, the Spanis La Liga giants take on Sevilla on Sunday (Mar 15) at home before facing Newcastle United in hopes to make it to the last 8 of Champions League.

The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team as Barcelona drew first leg of R16 Champions League match 1-1 vs Newcastle United.

Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona in the Champions League R16 first leg match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at the St. James Park but teenager Lamine Yamal had different plans. There were no goals in the match till 86th minute when Harvey Barnes scored one for the home team, almost sealing a win. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, however, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. With the first leg ending in a 1-1 draw, Barcelona will have the home advanatge in the second leg and the winner of the match will proceed to the next stage. Also Read - What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026 How Lamine Yamal saved Barcelona in historic UCL appearance The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team. Have a look at his penalty kick which saved Barcelona from embarrassment:

The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team as Barcelona drew first leg of R16 Champions League match 1-1 vs Newcastle United.

Champions League | WATCH - Lamine Yamal saves Barcelona vs Newcastle in historic UCL appearance

Lamine Yamal's last-gasp penalty earned Barcelona a 1-1 draw at Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday, while Liverpool lost 1-0 to Galatasaray in Istanbul for the second time this season. Atletico Madrid piled more misery on Tottenham Hotspur by winning 5-2 on a nightmare evening for visiting goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, while Bayern Munich are all but through to the quarter-finals after thrashing Atalanta 6-1 in Italy. At St James' Park, Newcastle were heading for a night to savour when Harvey Barnes broke the deadlock on 86 minutes as he turned in a Jacob Murphy cross for his sixth Champions League goal this season.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-fund-refunds-and-disciplinary-measures-what-happens-if-iran-pulls-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1773118066659">What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026</a>However, Barcelona were awarded a penalty deep in injury time when Dani Olmo was tripped by Malick Thiaw and Yamal -- a peripheral figure throughout the game -- converted with the last kick of the match in the 96th minute.That will make Newcastle's task harder going to the Camp Nou for the return next Wednesday as they aim to reach the quarter-finals for the first time."There's hope, of course there is. We believe in ourselves, we believe in our capabilities. I think we've shown that today," said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe.The winners of that tie look likely to face Atletico in the last eight, after Diego Simeone's side tore apart Spurs at the Metropolitano, with Julian Alvarez scoring twice.It was a horrible night for struggling Tottenham and an especially dreadful one for their Czech goalkeeper Kinsky, whose two previous appearances this season had come in the League Cup.His slip when attempting to clear led to Marcos Llorente slotting in Atletico's sixth-minute opener, and Antoine Griezmann then took advantage of a Micky van de Ven slip to grab another for the hosts.The game was just 15 minutes old when Kinsky made a complete mess of an attempted first-time pass, gifting the ball to Alvarez for 3-0.The 22-year-old Kinsky's humiliation was compounded as he was then substituted by coach Igor Tudor, but replacement Guglielmo Vicario could not keep out Robin Le Normand's header to make it 4-0 midway through the first half.Pedro Porro pulled one back, but Alvarez ran half the length of the pitch following a superb Griezmann lay-off to get Atletico's fifth early in the second half.Dominic Solanke fired in on 76 minutes to make it 5-2, perhaps giving Spurs a glimmer of hope for the return.<h2>Brilliant Bayern hit six</h2>However, it is hard to see how they arrest a slump which has seen them lose all four games under new coach Tudor, and six on the bounce overall."Unfortunately, it happened in this big game, these mistakes. So we paid for this start of the game, it was too much for us," lamented Tudor, who said he needed to "preserve" the devastated Kinsky by taking him off."I've been coaching for 15 years, I've never done this. It was necessary to preserve the guy, preserve the team."Earlier, Liverpool lost by a single goal to Galatasaray, just as they had when the clubs met in Turkey in the league phase.Mario Lemina scored the only goal for the Turkish league leaders, heading in from close range after Victor Osinhen nodded down a corner.Osimhen had the ball in the net again in the second half, only for an offside decision to come to Liverpool's rescue.The Anfield side will need to do much better if they are to turn the tie around next week at home."It's already a difficult place to come to, but when you're 1-0 down it makes it even harder," said Liverpool boss Arne Slot.Bayern confirmed their status as one of the leading contenders to win the competition by crushing Atalanta in Bergamo, with Michael Olise in inspired form.Harry Kane played no part as Josip Stanisic tapped in an early opener and Olise applied a great finish to make it 2-0 midway through the first half.Olise set up Serge Gnabry to make it 3-0 before half-time, and the latter also hit the bar late in the first half.Nicolas Jackson got the fourth early in the second half, and the outstanding Olise curled in the fifth, his 15th of the season.Jamal Musiala netted the sixth, and there is surely no way back for Atalanta, even if Mario Pasalic got one back in stoppage time.

Atletico Madrid piled more misery on Tottenham Hotspur by winning 5-2 on a nightmare evening for visiting goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, while Bayern Munich are all but through to the quarter-finals after thrashing Atalanta 6-1 in Italy

Lamine Yamal's last-gasp penalty earned Barcelona a 1-1 draw at Newcastle United in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday, while Liverpool lost 1-0 to Galatasaray in Istanbul for the second time this season. Atletico Madrid piled more misery on Tottenham Hotspur by winning 5-2 on a nightmare evening for visiting goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, while Bayern Munich are all but through to the quarter-finals after thrashing Atalanta 6-1 in Italy. At St James' Park, Newcastle were heading for a night to savour when Harvey Barnes broke the deadlock on 86 minutes as he turned in a Jacob Murphy cross for his sixth Champions League goal this season. Also Read - What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026 However, Barcelona were awarded a penalty deep in injury time when Dani Olmo was tripped by Malick Thiaw and Yamal -- a peripheral figure throughout the game -- converted with the last kick of the match in the 96th minute. That will make Newcastle's task harder going to the Camp Nou for the return next Wednesday as they aim to reach the quarter-finals for the first time. "There's hope, of course there is. We believe in ourselves, we believe in our capabilities. I think we've shown that today," said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. The winners of that tie look likely to face Atletico in the last eight, after Diego Simeone's side tore apart Spurs at the Metropolitano, with Julian Alvarez scoring twice. It was a horrible night for struggling Tottenham and an especially dreadful one for their Czech goalkeeper Kinsky, whose two previous appearances this season had come in the League Cup. His slip when attempting to clear led to Marcos Llorente slotting in Atletico's sixth-minute opener, and Antoine Griezmann then took advantage of a Micky van de Ven slip to grab another for the hosts. The game was just 15 minutes old when Kinsky made a complete mess of an attempted first-time pass, gifting the ball to Alvarez for 3-0. The 22-year-old Kinsky's humiliation was compounded as he was then substituted by coach Igor Tudor, but replacement Guglielmo Vicario could not keep out Robin Le Normand's header to make it 4-0 midway through the first half. Pedro Porro pulled one back, but Alvarez ran half the length of the pitch following a superb Griezmann lay-off to get Atletico's fifth early in the second half. Dominic Solanke fired in on 76 minutes to make it 5-2, perhaps giving Spurs a glimmer of hope for the return. Brilliant Bayern hit six However, it is hard to see how they arrest a slump which has seen them lose all four games under new coach Tudor, and six on the bounce overall. "Unfortunately, it happened in this big game, these mistakes. So we paid for this start of the game, it was too much for us," lamented Tudor, who said he needed to "preserve" the devastated Kinsky by taking him off. "I've been coaching for 15 years, I've never done this. It was necessary to preserve the guy, preserve the team." Earlier, Liverpool lost by a single goal to Galatasaray, just as they had when the clubs met in Turkey in the league phase. Mario Lemina scored the only goal for the Turkish league leaders, heading in from close range after Victor Osinhen nodded down a corner. Osimhen had the ball in the net again in the second half, only for an offside decision to come to Liverpool's rescue. The Anfield side will need to do much better if they are to turn the tie around next week at home. "It's already a difficult place to come to, but when you're 1-0 down it makes it even harder," said Liverpool boss Arne Slot. Bayern confirmed their status as one of the leading contenders to win the competition by crushing Atalanta in Bergamo, with Michael Olise in inspired form. Harry Kane played no part as Josip Stanisic tapped in an early opener and Olise applied a great finish to make it 2-0 midway through the first half. Olise set up Serge Gnabry to make it 3-0 before half-time, and the latter also hit the bar late in the first half. Nicolas Jackson got the fourth early in the second half, and the outstanding Olise curled in the fifth, his 15th of the season. Jamal Musiala netted the sixth, and there is surely no way back for Atalanta, even if Mario Pasalic got one back in stoppage time.

Atletico Madrid piled more misery on Tottenham Hotspur by winning 5-2 on a nightmare evening for visiting goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, while Bayern Munich are all but through to the quarter-finals after thrashing Atalanta 6-1 in Italy.

Champions League R16: Yamal saves Barca, Liverpool lose to Galatasaray and Atletico pile more misery on Spurs

English Premier League (PL) club Tottenham Hotspurs have been fined by the UEFA, European football governing body, for the Nazi salutes made by its fans against Eintracht Frankfurt during the Champions League fixture in January. Tottenham had won the match, played at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main on January 29, 2-0. During the match, the travelling fans had made the Nazi salutes gestures towards the home fans the the UEFA, after the investigation, had levied monetary charges on the Spurs along with being banned from selling tickets to away fans for one match in an UEFA fixture.<h2>UEFA fines Tottenham over fans' Nazi salute</h2>Announcing the repurcussion of its fans making the Nazi Saluet gestures, UEFA fined Hotspur €30,000 (£26,200/$35,100), to be paid to the European football's apex body. Along with it, a separate fine of €2,250 (£1,960/$2,630) was also levied for throwing of objects by fans.In addtion to the moetary charges,the apex organization also banned Hotspur from selling tickets to away fans for one UEFA fixture which will further hit their bank balance.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-to-be-sent-off-fifa-boss-infantino-on-players-covering-mouth-during-argument-in-tournament-1772513674075">Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament</a>Reacting to the incident, Hostpur said: "The club has cooperated fully with UEFA's investigation, as well as with German police on the night and, subsequently, the Met Police. We can confirm that all three individuals found to be making Nazi salutes towards Eintracht Frankfurt fans have been identified and have received indefinite bans under the Club's Sanctions and Banning Policy."<h2>Nazi Slautes becoming frequent in Champions League</h2>Apart from the Tottenham Hotspur match, Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff also saw a fan doing the same gesture. Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during the first-leg match in Lisbon.

Tottenham had won the match, played at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main on January 29, 2-0. During the match, the travelling fans had made the Nazi salutes gestures towards the home fans the the UEFA, after the investigation, had levied monetary charges on the Spurs.

English Premier League (PL) club Tottenham Hotspurs have been fined by the UEFA, European football governing body, for the Nazi salutes made by its fans against Eintracht Frankfurt during the Champions League fixture in January. Tottenham had won the match, played at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main on January 29, 2-0. During the match, the travelling fans had made the Nazi salutes gestures towards the home fans the the UEFA, after the investigation, had levied monetary charges on the Spurs along with being banned from selling tickets to away fans for one match in an UEFA fixture. UEFA fines Tottenham over fans' Nazi salute Announcing the repurcussion of its fans making the Nazi Saluet gestures, UEFA fined Hotspur €30,000 (£26,200/$35,100), to be paid to the European football's apex body. Along with it, a separate fine of €2,250 (£1,960/$2,630) was also levied for throwing of objects by fans. In addtion to the moetary charges,the apex organization also banned Hotspur from selling tickets to away fans for one UEFA fixture which will further hit their bank balance. Also Read - Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament Reacting to the incident, Hostpur said: "The club has cooperated fully with UEFA's investigation, as well as with German police on the night and, subsequently, the Met Police. We can confirm that all three individuals found to be making Nazi salutes towards Eintracht Frankfurt fans have been identified and have received indefinite bans under the Club's Sanctions and Banning Policy." Nazi Slautes becoming frequent in Champions League Apart from the Tottenham Hotspur match, Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff also saw a fan doing the same gesture. Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during the first-leg match in Lisbon.

Tottenham had won the match, played at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main on January 29, 2-0. During the match, the travelling fans had made the Nazi salutes gestures towards the home fans the the UEFA, after the investigation, had levied monetary charges on the Spurs.

Champions League | '$35k fine and banned from selling tickets': UEFA punishes Tottenham Hotspur for Nazi Salutes by fans

The Champions League Round of 16 has thrown up some interesting draws, as some heavyweights of the game are set to collide in the pre-quarterfinal stage. In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. Spurs, on the other hand, have been paired off with Atletico Madrid as the two will meet for the first time in a competitive match since 1963.<h2>Real Madrid-Man City to face off again</h2>The Spanish giants, record 15-time European champions, will host City in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next month before travelling to England for the return the following week.&nbsp;The clubs have already played each other this season, with Pep Guardiola's City winning 2-1 in Madrid in December during the league phase, in which the Premier League club finished eighth and Real ninth.&nbsp;That allowed City, Champions League winners in 2023, to advance straight to the last 16 while Madrid had to come through the knockout phase play-offs, in which they beat Benfica 3-1 on aggregate.<h2>2025-26 Champions League round of 16: Full draw</h2>- PSG vs Chelsea- Galatasaray vs Liverpool- Real Madrid vs City- Atalanta vs Bayern Munich&nbsp;- Newcastle vs Barcelona- Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham- Bodø/Glimt vs Sporting- Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;PSG will be at home to Chelsea in the first leg after qualifying for this stage with a 5-4 aggregate win over Ligue 1 rivals Monaco in the play-offs. Chelsea progressed straight to the last 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase.&nbsp;There is a record total of six English clubs in the last 16. None will play each other in the last 16 but there are two potential all-English quarter-finals.&nbsp;Liverpool will have a last-16 rematch against Galatasaray, the Turkish giants having defeated the Anfield club 1-0 in September in the league phase.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Newcastle United will take on Barcelona with the first leg at St James' Park -- the Spanish side won 2-1 there during the league phase in September.&nbsp;Tottenham Hotspur were drawn to play Atletico Madrid, with the winners of that tie then facing Newcastle or Barcelona in the last eight.&nbsp;Arsenal, who finished first in the league phase, will come up against Bayer Leverkusen and if they win that would then be huge favourites in a quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt or Sporting of Portugal.

In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. 

The Champions League Round of 16 has thrown up some interesting draws, as some heavyweights of the game are set to collide in the pre-quarterfinal stage. In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. Spurs, on the other hand, have been paired off with Atletico Madrid as the two will meet for the first time in a competitive match since 1963. Real Madrid-Man City to face off again The Spanish giants, record 15-time European champions, will host City in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next month before travelling to England for the return the following week. The clubs have already played each other this season, with Pep Guardiola's City winning 2-1 in Madrid in December during the league phase, in which the Premier League club finished eighth and Real ninth. That allowed City, Champions League winners in 2023, to advance straight to the last 16 while Madrid had to come through the knockout phase play-offs, in which they beat Benfica 3-1 on aggregate. 2025-26 Champions League round of 16: Full draw - PSG vs Chelsea - Galatasaray vs Liverpool - Real Madrid vs City - Atalanta vs Bayern Munich - Newcastle vs Barcelona - Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham - Bodø/Glimt vs Sporting - Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds PSG will be at home to Chelsea in the first leg after qualifying for this stage with a 5-4 aggregate win over Ligue 1 rivals Monaco in the play-offs. Chelsea progressed straight to the last 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase. There is a record total of six English clubs in the last 16. None will play each other in the last 16 but there are two potential all-English quarter-finals. Liverpool will have a last-16 rematch against Galatasaray, the Turkish giants having defeated the Anfield club 1-0 in September in the league phase. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Meanwhile, Newcastle United will take on Barcelona with the first leg at St James' Park -- the Spanish side won 2-1 there during the league phase in September. Tottenham Hotspur were drawn to play Atletico Madrid, with the winners of that tie then facing Newcastle or Barcelona in the last eight. Arsenal, who finished first in the league phase, will come up against Bayer Leverkusen and if they win that would then be huge favourites in a quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt or Sporting of Portugal.

In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final.&nbsp;

Champions League: Man City-Real Madrid to square off in R16, PSG face Chelsea in high-voltage clash

The Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff has eventually found something controversial to be associated with. The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica player and the match was stopped good 10 minutes before restarting. As for the result Real Madrid won both the legs and advanced to the R16 with an aggregate score of 3-1.<h2>Another controversy hits Real Madrid vs Benfica</h2>Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The Spanish club issued a statement on the incident and informed asking the disciplinary committee "to initiate an immediate expulsion procedure" against the person concerned.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-how-round-of-16-draw-works-check-date-venue-and-all-possible-match-ups-1772091553761">Champions League - How round of 16 draw works? Check all possible match-ups</a>"Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society," the statement further read.<h2>Real Madrid vs Benfica first-leg controversy</h2>The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-reveals-what-benfica-s-prestianni-said-to-real-madrid-s-vinicius-jr-in-alleged-racial-abuse-1771377432674">Vinicus Jr &nbsp;was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni</a> during the first-leg match in Lisbon. The match was stopped for 10 minutes before it started again and Vini ensured hsi team wins 1-0 before doing the same in Madrid on Feb 25.After the racism incident, UEFA provisonally banned Prestianni for one match pending a detailed investigation which could lead to futher punishment for the Benfica player, who denied racially abusing Vini Jr.<h2>Real Madrid in Champions League R16</h2>With the win in knockout playoffs, Real Madris will either face Sporting CP or Manchester City in the Round 16 which begins Mar 10. The draw for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-round-of-16-teams-bracket-draw-match-ups-and-knockout-playoff-results-1772080353341">Champions League R16</a> will be held on Friday (Feb 27) at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.&nbsp;

The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused.

The Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff has eventually found something controversial to be associated with. The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica player and the match was stopped good 10 minutes before restarting. As for the result Real Madrid won both the legs and advanced to the R16 with an aggregate score of 3-1. Another controversy hits Real Madrid vs Benfica Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The Spanish club issued a statement on the incident and informed asking the disciplinary committee "to initiate an immediate expulsion procedure" against the person concerned. Also Read - Champions League - How round of 16 draw works? Check all possible match-ups "Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society," the statement further read. Real Madrid vs Benfica first-leg controversy The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during the first-leg match in Lisbon. The match was stopped for 10 minutes before it started again and Vini ensured hsi team wins 1-0 before doing the same in Madrid on Feb 25. After the racism incident, UEFA provisonally banned Prestianni for one match pending a detailed investigation which could lead to futher punishment for the Benfica player, who denied racially abusing Vini Jr. Real Madrid in Champions League R16 With the win in knockout playoffs, Real Madris will either face Sporting CP or Manchester City in the Round 16 which begins Mar 10. The draw for Champions League R16 will be held on Friday (Feb 27) at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.

The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused.

Champions League | 'Nazi salute after racism': Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg also hit with controversy

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