Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde made 10 changes to the team that had beaten United 1-0 in Wednesday's first leg as well as handing three players their La Liga debuts and the unfamiliar team failed to break down the league's basement club.

Despite the draw, Barca are well on course to lift an eighth Spanish league title in 11 years after beating nearest challengers Atletico Madrid 2-0 last week, and Vidal said Tuesday's second leg against United was their priority.

"I think everyone that was playing today was thinking about Tuesday's game, just like the guys who stayed at home," the Chilean Vidal told reporters. "The Champions League is what everyone is dreaming about."

Barca's imperious domestic record is in stark contrast to their recent failures in the Champions League, where they have failed to get beyond the quarter-finals since winning the competition in 2015.

They suffered a humiliating exit last year by losing 3-0 at AS Roma and coach Valverde came in for serious criticism for not resting players in their game with Leganes three days before their collapse in Italy.

Valverde was not about to make the same mistake again, leaving talisman Lionel Messi back in Barcelona along with Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic, while Luis Suarez and Gerard Pique were suspended.

"Obviously, we always want to win but this game came in special circumstances for us. We had just played on Wednesday and we have the second leg on Tuesday and I thought this was the moment to make changes," said the Barca coach.

"If we hadn't beaten Atletico, I would have picked a different team today, although you never know if the result would have been different. We could have done better today, but overall we're happy."

Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday.

Barcelona midfielder Arturo Vidal said his side were distracted by their upcoming Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United after the runaway La Liga leaders could only draw 0-0 at struggling Huesca on Saturday. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde made 10 changes to the team that had beaten United 1-0 in Wednesday's first leg as well as handing three players their La Liga debuts and the unfamiliar team failed to break down the league's basement club. Despite the draw, Barca are well on course to lift an eighth Spanish league title in 11 years after beating nearest challengers Atletico Madrid 2-0 last week, and Vidal said Tuesday's second leg against United was their priority. "I think everyone that was playing today was thinking about Tuesday's game, just like the guys who stayed at home," the Chilean Vidal told reporters. "The Champions League is what everyone is dreaming about." Barca's imperious domestic record is in stark contrast to their recent failures in the Champions League, where they have failed to get beyond the quarter-finals since winning the competition in 2015. They suffered a humiliating exit last year by losing 3-0 at AS Roma and coach Valverde came in for serious criticism for not resting players in their game with Leganes three days before their collapse in Italy. Valverde was not about to make the same mistake again, leaving talisman Lionel Messi back in Barcelona along with Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic, while Luis Suarez and Gerard Pique were suspended. "Obviously, we always want to win but this game came in special circumstances for us. We had just played on Wednesday and we have the second leg on Tuesday and I thought this was the moment to make changes," said the Barca coach. "If we hadn't beaten Atletico, I would have picked a different team today, although you never know if the result would have been different. We could have done better today, but overall we're happy."

Arturo Vidal says goalless Barcelona distracted by thought of Manchester United

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United.

The draw means second-placed Atletico Madrid could close the 12-point gap with Barcelona, who are on 74 points, if they beat Celta Vigo later on Saturday.

With the title practically assured after last weekend's 2-0 win over Atletico, Valverde fielded a radically different side to the team that won 1-0 at Old Trafford in Wednesday's first leg, making 10 changes and handing three players their league debuts.

Midfielder Riqui Puig was one of the debutants and the 19-year-old produced the best moment of an uneventful first half, picking out Ousmane Dembele with a wonderful pass but the forward dragged his shot wide.

Brazilian forward Malcom struck the post early in the second half and team mate Carles Alena missed the target from the rebound in Barca's best spell after the interval, while substitutes Philippe Coutinho, Jordi Alba and Arthur Melo could not improve the leaders' attacking threat when they came on.

Huesca desperately needed a win to keep up their slim hopes of avoiding relegation but they struggled to make much of an impact and stay rooted to the bottom of the standings with 25 points from 32 games.

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United.

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw by basement club Huesca on Saturday as coach Ernesto Valverde made sweeping changes to his line-up ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final decider against Manchester United. The draw means second-placed Atletico Madrid could close the 12-point gap with Barcelona, who are on 74 points, if they beat Celta Vigo later on Saturday. With the title practically assured after last weekend's 2-0 win over Atletico, Valverde fielded a radically different side to the team that won 1-0 at Old Trafford in Wednesday's first leg, making 10 changes and handing three players their league debuts. Midfielder Riqui Puig was one of the debutants and the 19-year-old produced the best moment of an uneventful first half, picking out Ousmane Dembele with a wonderful pass but the forward dragged his shot wide. Brazilian forward Malcom struck the post early in the second half and team mate Carles Alena missed the target from the rebound in Barca's best spell after the interval, while substitutes Philippe Coutinho, Jordi Alba and Arthur Melo could not improve the leaders' attacking threat when they came on. Huesca desperately needed a win to keep up their slim hopes of avoiding relegation but they struggled to make much of an impact and stay rooted to the bottom of the standings with 25 points from 32 games.

Makeshift Barcelona draw with basement club Huesca

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-luke-shaws-own-goal-gives-barcelona-advantage-over-tame-united-209409">1-0 deficit from the first leg</a>&nbsp;of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday.

United became the first side to ever overcome a 2-0 first leg defeat at home to reach the last eight with a 3-1 win in Paris last month.

But Solskjaer, who scored the winner when United won the Champions League at the Camp Nou in 1999, believes Barca's prestigious European history makes beating the Spanish champions a different prospect to PSG.

"Of course the PSG performance away gives us hope and belief we can do it, but we know we are playing against probably the favourites for the tournament," said Solskjaer.

"It will be a greater achievement winning that one with the history of Barcelona. They are not used to losing at home."

Luke Shaw's early own goal was all that separated the sides on the scoresheet, but Barca comfortably edged towards a first Champions League semi-final in four years as United failed to register a single shot on target.

"It leaves a good taste in the mouth to win here, but we know it is not a big enough lead given what happened (with United) in the last round," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.

Much has been made of Luis Suarez's Champions League goal drought on the road and while the Uruguayan has still not officially netted an away goal in the competition since September 2015, he had a huge hand in Barca's winner.

Lionel Messi drifted in behind the United defence and his cross hung up to the back post was headed goalwards by Suarez, the ball flicking off Shaw on its way past David de Gea.

An errant offside flag briefly threatened to spoil Suarez's delight. However, the goal was quickly given on a VAR review and the former Liverpool striker took extra glee at having the last laugh with a fist pump in front of the Stretford End.

"The value of the goal doesn't change if another player gets the last touch or not," added Valverde.

The early goal should have settled the Catalans into their stride as their dominance of possession touched close to 90 percent in the opening stages.

Yet they offered United plenty of encouragement with Sergio Busquets in particular off the pace.

"It is very difficult over the course of a season to always be at the highest level," said Valverde.

"To win away from home in the Champions League you have to suffer."

Messi roughed up

United defender Chris Smalling had said "bring it on" at the prospect of facing Messi on the eve of the game.

And he left the Argentine bloodied from the nose as he careered into an aerial challenge on the half-hour mark.

Messi was quickly back on his feet and into the heart of the action, but it was Philippe Coutinho who came closest to extending Barca's advantage before the break with a thunderous low shot that De Gea did brilliantly to repel with his feet.

Moments later United could easily have been on level terms, but the hosts' best chance of the half fell to the wrong man as Marcus Rashford picked out Diogo Dalot only for the Portuguese to completely miscue his header across goal.

However, Rashford also failed to make proper contact with his big chance early in the second-half when Ter Stegen could only punch a cross into his path.

The Red Devils have now failed to score and have lost in four of their last six home Champions League games.

"Those statistics are not bright, we cannot defend not scoring goals at home," added Solskjaer.

"But away from home we beat Juventus, we beat PSG and we have to go to Barcelona and win that one."

The result could have been worse for Solskjaer's men as Suarez fired into the side-netting before De Gea used his feet to good effect once more to deny Jordi Alba.

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday.

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday. United became the first side to ever overcome a 2-0 first leg defeat at home to reach the last eight with a 3-1 win in Paris last month. But Solskjaer, who scored the winner when United won the Champions League at the Camp Nou in 1999, believes Barca's prestigious European history makes beating the Spanish champions a different prospect to PSG. "Of course the PSG performance away gives us hope and belief we can do it, but we know we are playing against probably the favourites for the tournament," said Solskjaer. "It will be a greater achievement winning that one with the history of Barcelona. They are not used to losing at home." Luke Shaw's early own goal was all that separated the sides on the scoresheet, but Barca comfortably edged towards a first Champions League semi-final in four years as United failed to register a single shot on target. "It leaves a good taste in the mouth to win here, but we know it is not a big enough lead given what happened (with United) in the last round," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Much has been made of Luis Suarez's Champions League goal drought on the road and while the Uruguayan has still not officially netted an away goal in the competition since September 2015, he had a huge hand in Barca's winner. Lionel Messi drifted in behind the United defence and his cross hung up to the back post was headed goalwards by Suarez, the ball flicking off Shaw on its way past David de Gea. An errant offside flag briefly threatened to spoil Suarez's delight. However, the goal was quickly given on a VAR review and the former Liverpool striker took extra glee at having the last laugh with a fist pump in front of the Stretford End. "The value of the goal doesn't change if another player gets the last touch or not," added Valverde. The early goal should have settled the Catalans into their stride as their dominance of possession touched close to 90 percent in the opening stages. Yet they offered United plenty of encouragement with Sergio Busquets in particular off the pace. "It is very difficult over the course of a season to always be at the highest level," said Valverde. "To win away from home in the Champions League you have to suffer." Messi roughed up United defender Chris Smalling had said "bring it on" at the prospect of facing Messi on the eve of the game. And he left the Argentine bloodied from the nose as he careered into an aerial challenge on the half-hour mark. Messi was quickly back on his feet and into the heart of the action, but it was Philippe Coutinho who came closest to extending Barca's advantage before the break with a thunderous low shot that De Gea did brilliantly to repel with his feet. Moments later United could easily have been on level terms, but the hosts' best chance of the half fell to the wrong man as Marcus Rashford picked out Diogo Dalot only for the Portuguese to completely miscue his header across goal. However, Rashford also failed to make proper contact with his big chance early in the second-half when Ter Stegen could only punch a cross into his path. The Red Devils have now failed to score and have lost in four of their last six home Champions League games. "Those statistics are not bright, we cannot defend not scoring goals at home," added Solskjaer. "But away from home we beat Juventus, we beat PSG and we have to go to Barcelona and win that one." The result could have been worse for Solskjaer's men as Suarez fired into the side-netting before De Gea used his feet to good effect once more to deny Jordi Alba.

Beating Barcelona tougher than PSG, admits Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10).

Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg.

After United's comeback against Paris St Germain in the previous round, Barca will take nothing for granted, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team will struggle to repeat the trick against a side with a fearsome home record.

Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side.

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10).

Barcelona overcame a punchless Manchester United to take the upper hand in their Champions League quarter-final after Luke Shaw's own goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg victory at Old Trafford on Wednesday (April 10). Shaw deflected a Luis Suarez header into his own net after 12 minutes, handing the Catalans a vital away goal that will make them clear favourites in the return leg. After United's comeback against Paris St Germain in the previous round, Barca will take nothing for granted, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team will struggle to repeat the trick against a side with a fearsome home record. Barca have not lost at home for 30 games in the Champions League since 2013 and while United can take credit for staying in the tie, they produced little that will overly worry the Spanish side.

Champions League: Luke Shaw's own goal gives Barcelona advantage over tame United

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-luke-shaws-own-goal-gives-barcelona-advantage-over-tame-united-209409">0-1 defeat to Barcelona</a> in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

On being about playing against Barcelona in the Classico, Pogba said, "Yes, when we play in the Champions League it's always nice to play against Barca, it’s a dream for anyone."

Then reporter specifically asked his much-speculated move to Madrid, Pogba refused to talk.&nbsp;

"I won’t answer that," he said.&nbsp;

He further added, "I will only speak about the game, nothing else."

The 26-year-old Red Devil midfielder is contracted with the English Premier League side until June 2021. He had recently said, "At the moment I’m happy in Manchester. I play, there’s a new coach. Real Madrid is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I've always said it is a dream club for every player."&nbsp;

French coach Zinedine Zidane has rejoined Real Madrid 10 months after leaving the Spanish giants and speculation is rife about which players he will sign to bolster his squad.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/paulpogba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paulpogba</a> just being Paul Pogba 🕺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNBAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNBAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/JynryPFbhF">pic.twitter.com/JynryPFbhF</a>
— sntv (@sntvstory) <a href="https://twitter.com/sntvstory/status/1115609599955152897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Also, Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford are vital to his plans of building a team "worthy of the history of the club".&nbsp;

"They are vital for our future. You have got loads of players who you can build a team around and those are two that you asked me about."

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's 0-1 defeat to Barcelona in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford.

Manchester United's Paul Pogba has given an epic reply to Real Madrid transfer rumours after his side's 0-1 defeat to Barcelona in the first-leg quarter-final of UEFA Champions League at Old Trafford. On being about playing against Barcelona in the Classico, Pogba said, "Yes, when we play in the Champions League it's always nice to play against Barca, it’s a dream for anyone." Then reporter specifically asked his much-speculated move to Madrid, Pogba refused to talk. "I won’t answer that," he said. He further added, "I will only speak about the game, nothing else." The 26-year-old Red Devil midfielder is contracted with the English Premier League side until June 2021. He had recently said, "At the moment I’m happy in Manchester. I play, there’s a new coach. Real Madrid is one of the biggest clubs in the world. I've always said it is a dream club for every player." French coach Zinedine Zidane has rejoined Real Madrid 10 months after leaving the Spanish giants and speculation is rife about which players he will sign to bolster his squad. .@paulpogba just being Paul Pogba 🕺 #MUFC #MUNBAR pic.twitter.com/JynryPFbhF — sntv (@sntvstory) April 9, 2019 × Also, Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford are vital to his plans of building a team "worthy of the history of the club". "They are vital for our future. You have got loads of players who you can build a team around and those are two that you asked me about."

Paul Pogba responds to Real Madrid transfer rumour

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri hailed star striker Cristiano Ronaldo as being in a class of his own after he bagged a precious away goal in their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ronaldo-scores-as-juventus-held-to-a-draw-at-ajax-209401">1-1 Champions League quarter-final draw</a> at Ajax on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ronaldo put Juventus in front on the stroke of half-time with a diving header to take his record goal tally in the competition to 125, only for Brazilian&nbsp;winger David Neres to level almost immediately after half-time to put the tie on a knife-edge ahead of next week's return leg in Turin.&nbsp;

"Ronaldo showed that he is on a different level. His timing and movement is different to everyone else's, there's nothing you can do about it," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.&nbsp;

"He is a player who just has a different technique than the others."

Ajax piled on the pressure at the Johan Cruyff Arena, going close on a number of occasions before Douglas Costa nearly delivered a late sucker punch for Juve when he struck the woodwork.

Their spectacular comeback from a 2-1 first-leg home defeat to Real Madrid with a thumping 4-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu in the previous round showed that the tie is far from over.

"It's a good result because we scored away from home, the tie is still open," added Allegri, who is looking to guide Juve to their first Champions League since 1996, when they beat Ajax in Rome.

"We were good defensively, the team was nice and compact, there is good reason to think we can get to the semi-finals.

"We are not worried, we have great respect for Ajax but you have to be ready.

"One each is better than 0-0, in Turin we will have to play to win."

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri hailed star striker Cristiano Ronaldo as being in a class of his own after he bagged a precious away goal in their 1-1 Champions League quarter-final draw at Ajax on Wednesday.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri hailed star striker Cristiano Ronaldo as being in a class of his own after he bagged a precious away goal in their 1-1 Champions League quarter-final draw at Ajax on Wednesday. Ronaldo put Juventus in front on the stroke of half-time with a diving header to take his record goal tally in the competition to 125, only for Brazilian winger David Neres to level almost immediately after half-time to put the tie on a knife-edge ahead of next week's return leg in Turin. "Ronaldo showed that he is on a different level. His timing and movement is different to everyone else's, there's nothing you can do about it," Allegri told Sky Sport Italia. "He is a player who just has a different technique than the others." Ajax piled on the pressure at the Johan Cruyff Arena, going close on a number of occasions before Douglas Costa nearly delivered a late sucker punch for Juve when he struck the woodwork. Their spectacular comeback from a 2-1 first-leg home defeat to Real Madrid with a thumping 4-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu in the previous round showed that the tie is far from over. "It's a good result because we scored away from home, the tie is still open," added Allegri, who is looking to guide Juve to their first Champions League since 1996, when they beat Ajax in Rome. "We were good defensively, the team was nice and compact, there is good reason to think we can get to the semi-finals. "We are not worried, we have great respect for Ajax but you have to be ready. "One each is better than 0-0, in Turin we will have to play to win."

Cristiano Ronaldo on another level, says Juve's coach Massimiliano Allegri

Champions League: Major takeaways from Tottenham vs Manchester City clash

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper&nbsp;Hugo Lloris in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-son-heung-mins-late-winner-gives-tottenham-edge-over-manchester-city-209155">Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs</a> in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Chasing a quadruple bid, City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes.&nbsp;

The Argentine was handed the chance to put City ahead when full-back Danny Rose was controversially adjudged by VAR to have used his arm to block a shot, but his 13th-minute spot kick was brilliantly saved by Lloris.&nbsp;

The French keeper's heroics produced a deafening roar not heard along the Tottenham High Road since Spurs moved out of their old stadium two years ago.&nbsp;

However, it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son Heung-min's 78th-minute winner.&nbsp;

Watch how Sergio Aguero missed the penalty:&nbsp;

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Hugo Lloris is the first goalkeeper to deny Sergio Aguero from the penalty spot more than once since his move to Europe in 2006. 
 
He has saved 3 penalties this season in all competitions 
Vs. Leicester 
Vs. Arsenal 
Vs. Man City<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/JDxKNMrmdH">pic.twitter.com/JDxKNMrmdH</a>
— Òĸę Ťøşįŋ Řı¢ħąřđ ®💙 (@OTR_Achivas) <a href="https://twitter.com/OTR_Achivas/status/1115708568542613504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Here are some Twitter reactions:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> 
 
The Miss Penalty of the Year 
 
Sergio Aguero <a href="https://t.co/X1E7p91EAt">pic.twitter.com/X1E7p91EAt</a>
— JVC 🇲🇼 🇿🇦 🇿🇼 🇺🇸 🇬🇧. 🇪🇺 (@Chimpololo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chimpololo/status/1115723636395134977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero when the ref gifted City a penalty. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/nQsli8wEbz">pic.twitter.com/nQsli8wEbz</a>
— #FootyOnTop ⚽️🏃🏾‍♂️ (@DDFootyfactory_) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDFootyfactory_/status/1115694850920321024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero’s penalty just now <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/DHtjFj4TY5">pic.twitter.com/DHtjFj4TY5</a>
— Andrew Jerell Jones (@sluggahjells) <a href="https://twitter.com/sluggahjells/status/1115694354084052993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Live look at Hugo loris. <a href="https://t.co/qwXjTwWuXI">pic.twitter.com/qwXjTwWuXI</a>
— Alex Wile (@thewiledcard) <a href="https://twitter.com/thewiledcard/status/1079055450291822592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said on the eve of the game that his side would need to match the intensity of a City outfit oozing quality, both on the pitch and on a bench containing Kevin de Bruyne, Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane.

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. Chasing a quadruple bid, City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes. The Argentine was handed the chance to put City ahead when full-back Danny Rose was controversially adjudged by VAR to have used his arm to block a shot, but his 13th-minute spot kick was brilliantly saved by Lloris. The French keeper's heroics produced a deafening roar not heard along the Tottenham High Road since Spurs moved out of their old stadium two years ago. However, it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son Heung-min's 78th-minute winner. Watch how Sergio Aguero missed the penalty: Hugo Lloris is the first goalkeeper to deny Sergio Aguero from the penalty spot more than once since his move to Europe in 2006. He has saved 3 penalties this season in all competitions Vs. Leicester Vs. Arsenal Vs. Man City#TOTMCI #UCL pic.twitter.com/JDxKNMrmdH — Òĸę Ťøşįŋ Řı¢ħąřđ ®💙 (@OTR_Achivas) April 9, 2019 × Here are some Twitter reactions: @ManCity @SpursOfficial The Miss Penalty of the Year Sergio Aguero pic.twitter.com/X1E7p91EAt — JVC 🇲🇼 🇿🇦 🇿🇼 🇺🇸 🇬🇧. 🇪🇺 (@Chimpololo) April 9, 2019 × Sergio Aguero when the ref gifted City a penalty. #UCL #TOTMCI pic.twitter.com/nQsli8wEbz — #FootyOnTop ⚽️🏃🏾‍♂️ (@DDFootyfactory_) April 9, 2019 × Sergio Aguero’s penalty just now #TOTMCI pic.twitter.com/DHtjFj4TY5 — Andrew Jerell Jones (@sluggahjells) April 9, 2019 × Live look at Hugo loris. pic.twitter.com/qwXjTwWuXI — Alex Wile (@thewiledcard) December 29, 2018 × Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said on the eve of the game that his side would need to match the intensity of a City outfit oozing quality, both on the pitch and on a bench containing Kevin de Bruyne, Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane.

Funny Twitter reactions after Sergio Aguero misses penalty against Spurs in UCL clash

Tottenham Hotspur's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-son-heung-mins-late-winner-gives-tottenham-edge-over-manchester-city-209155">1-0 home win over Manchester City</a> in Champions League quarter-final first leg has been overshadowed by the Harry Kane's injury.&nbsp;

After a tackle by City's defender Fabian Delph in the second half, the Tottenham striker rolled his left ankle and limped off the pitch.&nbsp;

However, the magnitude of the injury will be clear after tests but it can be considered as a potentially season-ending injury.&nbsp;

Still, the injury leaves a major doubt over Kane's availability for next week's second leg in Manchester.&nbsp;

Kane has scored 24 goals this season and has already had a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an injury to the same ankle in January when he damaged ligaments.&nbsp;

"We are very sad and disappointed. We are going to miss him, maybe for the rest of the season, and we are worried about that. He doesn't have much time to recover," Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino told reporters.

"We'll see in the next few days. We can only look forward and hope it's not a big issue and that he can recover as soon as possible, but it doesn't look good."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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"It looks like the same ankle and a similar injury." 
 
"We're very sad. We're maybe going to miss him for the rest of the season." 😔 
 
Mauricio Pochettino speaks to <a href="https://twitter.com/DesKellyBTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DesKellyBTS</a> about the extent of Harry Kane's injury... <a href="https://t.co/8Nee4ElMsO">pic.twitter.com/8Nee4ElMsO</a>
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/btsportfootball/status/1115731495145091074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pochettino exchanged angry words with Delph after the incident, in which the City player appeared to stand on Kane's ankle as the pair tussled for the ball.&nbsp;

Tottenham Hotspur's 1-0 home win over Manchester City in Champions League quarter-final first leg has been overshadowed by the Harry Kane's injury. After a tackle by City's defender Fabian Delph in the second half, the Tottenham striker rolled his left ankle and limped off the pitch.

Tottenham Hotspur's 1-0 home win over Manchester City in Champions League quarter-final first leg has been overshadowed by the Harry Kane's injury. After a tackle by City's defender Fabian Delph in the second half, the Tottenham striker rolled his left ankle and limped off the pitch. However, the magnitude of the injury will be clear after tests but it can be considered as a potentially season-ending injury. Still, the injury leaves a major doubt over Kane's availability for next week's second leg in Manchester. Kane has scored 24 goals this season and has already had a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an injury to the same ankle in January when he damaged ligaments. "We are very sad and disappointed. We are going to miss him, maybe for the rest of the season, and we are worried about that. He doesn't have much time to recover," Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "We'll see in the next few days. We can only look forward and hope it's not a big issue and that he can recover as soon as possible, but it doesn't look good." "It looks like the same ankle and a similar injury." "We're very sad. We're maybe going to miss him for the rest of the season." 😔 Mauricio Pochettino speaks to @DesKellyBTS about the extent of Harry Kane's injury... pic.twitter.com/8Nee4ElMsO — Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 9, 2019 × Pochettino exchanged angry words with Delph after the incident, in which the City player appeared to stand on Kane's ankle as the pair tussled for the ball.

Harry Kane maybe out for rest of the season: Mauricio Pochettino

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistant Mike Phelan was part of the United team which beat Barca in the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup -- ending a 23-year wait for a second European title after their famous European Cup win in 1968.

It was just the second trophy won by manager Alex Ferguson at United following the FA Cup triumph the previous season and the biggest prize since their last English league title in 1967.

In beating the Spanish giants in Rotterdam, thanks to two goals from Welsh striker Mark Hughes, United were suddenly back in the big time.

"It was a great occasion, the excitement and preparation that went into that as a player and then getting over to Rotterdam and preparing to play what were the favourites at that time, Barcelona with Johann Cruyff as manager," Phelan told Reuters in an interview.

Barca had the great Dutch defensive midfielder Ronald Koeman and the brilliant Danish forward Michael Laudrup, to compliment their Spanish core, including striker Julio Salinas.

But United, overwhelmingly English with a sprinkling of Welsh, Irish and Scottish talent, triumphed thanks to the goals of the former Barca striker Hughes.

"The game is like a blip but it is the time before and after the game that I remember," says Phelan who recalls the massive following of United fans in the Dutch city and the strong characters in Ferguson's dressing room.

The likes of Bryan Robson, Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Paul Ince, Clayton Blackmore and Brian McClair made up a team that was the true start of the Ferguson era.

"We knew we had created another moment in history for the club – it was terrific. It was also a push towards better things – it gave us a hunger to know that we could compete again at that level and we definitely moved into another territory where we continually won things," he said.

WONDERFUL STRIKE

Indeed, United were soon dominating English football and that success was to bring them up against Barca again in European competition.

Phelan was on the coaching staff in 2008, when United won a cagey, tactical two-legged Champions League semi-final encounter with Barca thanks to a wonderful strike from distance by Paul Scholes in the second leg at Old Trafford.

That set up the victory over Chelsea, on penalties, in the final in Moscow, as United won their second Champions League under Ferguson, following their memorable 1999 triumph against Bayern Munich -- at Barca's Nou Camp stadium.

But there are less positive memories from the two most recent clashes with the Spanish club -- a 2-0 defeat in the 2009 final and a 3-1 reverse in the 2011 decider when Pep Guardiola's former side again dominated.

"I think they were the best team in football at that time and led by an extremely good, up and coming coach, who has gone on to do even better," said Phelan.

"We were well beat, we had to take that on the chin. You try to be competitive – but our best wasn’t good enough," he added.

Barca are again favourites to reach the last four but Solksjaer's side have already shown, in the previous round, that they can overcome the odds.

United came back from 2-0 down to beat Paris St Germain after the first-leg to go through with a thrilling 3-1 win in the French capital and Phelan knows the team will have to repeat many of the qualities they showed in that game.

“We felt if anyone could do it – Manchester United could. The players embraced the whole thing. It was a real good feeling after the game, to know that the belief was there and that Manchester United can still create these moments," said Phelan.

"We got the reaction from the fans and the media which was great – it has gone down as a great night in football. Hopefully we can bottle it.

"With Ole and this new mindset we can produce some terrific performances."

Standing in their way is Lionel Messi -- a goalscorer in both those lost finals.

"He is now more mature than he has ever been and he is still doing the things that he is really good at," said Phelan.

"At that time he was part of a good group of players, I think now it is a little bit different in that he is more of an individual player for Barcelona, the stand-out player, whereas 10 years ago he was in there with Iniesta and Xavi and these types of players, who were exceptionally talented players.

"They just took football to a new level, a different dimension, extremely efficient and clinical but they had a maestro at the heart of it – when he turns up he is good enough to win a game on his own."

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment.

There are instances in a club's history that can transform the mood and break barriers and as Manchester United prepare to face Barcelona in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, the class of 2019 were reminded about one such breakthrough moment. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistant Mike Phelan was part of the United team which beat Barca in the 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup -- ending a 23-year wait for a second European title after their famous European Cup win in 1968. It was just the second trophy won by manager Alex Ferguson at United following the FA Cup triumph the previous season and the biggest prize since their last English league title in 1967. In beating the Spanish giants in Rotterdam, thanks to two goals from Welsh striker Mark Hughes, United were suddenly back in the big time. "It was a great occasion, the excitement and preparation that went into that as a player and then getting over to Rotterdam and preparing to play what were the favourites at that time, Barcelona with Johann Cruyff as manager," Phelan told Reuters in an interview. Barca had the great Dutch defensive midfielder Ronald Koeman and the brilliant Danish forward Michael Laudrup, to compliment their Spanish core, including striker Julio Salinas. But United, overwhelmingly English with a sprinkling of Welsh, Irish and Scottish talent, triumphed thanks to the goals of the former Barca striker Hughes. "The game is like a blip but it is the time before and after the game that I remember," says Phelan who recalls the massive following of United fans in the Dutch city and the strong characters in Ferguson's dressing room. The likes of Bryan Robson, Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister, Paul Ince, Clayton Blackmore and Brian McClair made up a team that was the true start of the Ferguson era. "We knew we had created another moment in history for the club – it was terrific. It was also a push towards better things – it gave us a hunger to know that we could compete again at that level and we definitely moved into another territory where we continually won things," he said. WONDERFUL STRIKE Indeed, United were soon dominating English football and that success was to bring them up against Barca again in European competition. Phelan was on the coaching staff in 2008, when United won a cagey, tactical two-legged Champions League semi-final encounter with Barca thanks to a wonderful strike from distance by Paul Scholes in the second leg at Old Trafford. That set up the victory over Chelsea, on penalties, in the final in Moscow, as United won their second Champions League under Ferguson, following their memorable 1999 triumph against Bayern Munich -- at Barca's Nou Camp stadium. But there are less positive memories from the two most recent clashes with the Spanish club -- a 2-0 defeat in the 2009 final and a 3-1 reverse in the 2011 decider when Pep Guardiola's former side again dominated. "I think they were the best team in football at that time and led by an extremely good, up and coming coach, who has gone on to do even better," said Phelan. "We were well beat, we had to take that on the chin. You try to be competitive – but our best wasn’t good enough," he added. Barca are again favourites to reach the last four but Solksjaer's side have already shown, in the previous round, that they can overcome the odds. United came back from 2-0 down to beat Paris St Germain after the first-leg to go through with a thrilling 3-1 win in the French capital and Phelan knows the team will have to repeat many of the qualities they showed in that game. “We felt if anyone could do it – Manchester United could. The players embraced the whole thing. It was a real good feeling after the game, to know that the belief was there and that Manchester United can still create these moments," said Phelan. "We got the reaction from the fans and the media which was great – it has gone down as a great night in football. Hopefully we can bottle it. "With Ole and this new mindset we can produce some terrific performances." Standing in their way is Lionel Messi -- a goalscorer in both those lost finals. "He is now more mature than he has ever been and he is still doing the things that he is really good at," said Phelan. "At that time he was part of a good group of players, I think now it is a little bit different in that he is more of an individual player for Barcelona, the stand-out player, whereas 10 years ago he was in there with Iniesta and Xavi and these types of players, who were exceptionally talented players. "They just took football to a new level, a different dimension, extremely efficient and clinical but they had a maestro at the heart of it – when he turns up he is good enough to win a game on his own."

Barcelona clash recalls start of Manchester United's return to dominance

Manchester City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pep+Guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> believes that the club's achievements in the Champions League will ultimately determine if his stint in England has been a success.

The Spaniard guided former club Barcelona to two titles in Europe's elite club competition but could not repeat that feat at Bayern Munich despite delivering three Bundesliga titles and two German Cups.

"I was judged in Munich in that way so I will be judged here as well," Guardiola told a news conference ahead of Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final at Swansea City.

"My period in Munich wasn't good for most people because we didn't get one final. We got semi-finals but we didn't get a final and we were judged. I'm a lucky guy. My standards are high. I have to reach it."

City are looking to reach the last four of the Champions League for the first time under Guardiola and face a potentially difficult test having been drawn to face Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur in next month's quarter-finals.

Guardiola said he had no complaints with a Champions League trophy being the yardstick to measure his success in Manchester despite winning a league title and two League Cups.

"When I spoke with my chairman, CEO, sporting director, the people here know and they give credit for what we have done in the last two seasons. That's the most important thing," he said.

"After that, everyone can judge if it's a disaster. If we do not win the Champions League, our work for three seasons, every three days, is a failure or a disaster. I completely do not agree but what can I say? Accept it and move on.

"What's important is that the players, the club, the fans give credit if we are consistent and humble and, in every single game, do what we have to do. We won a lot in the past and that's why people believe that is normal -- but that's not normal."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes that the club's achievements in the Champions League will ultimately determine if his stint in England has been a success.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola believes that the club's achievements in the Champions League will ultimately determine if his stint in England has been a success. The Spaniard guided former club Barcelona to two titles in Europe's elite club competition but could not repeat that feat at Bayern Munich despite delivering three Bundesliga titles and two German Cups. "I was judged in Munich in that way so I will be judged here as well," Guardiola told a news conference ahead of Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final at Swansea City. "My period in Munich wasn't good for most people because we didn't get one final. We got semi-finals but we didn't get a final and we were judged. I'm a lucky guy. My standards are high. I have to reach it." City are looking to reach the last four of the Champions League for the first time under Guardiola and face a potentially difficult test having been drawn to face Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur in next month's quarter-finals. Guardiola said he had no complaints with a Champions League trophy being the yardstick to measure his success in Manchester despite winning a league title and two League Cups. "When I spoke with my chairman, CEO, sporting director, the people here know and they give credit for what we have done in the last two seasons. That's the most important thing," he said. "After that, everyone can judge if it's a disaster. If we do not win the Champions League, our work for three seasons, every three days, is a failure or a disaster. I completely do not agree but what can I say? Accept it and move on. "What's important is that the players, the club, the fans give credit if we are consistent and humble and, in every single game, do what we have to do. We won a lot in the past and that's why people believe that is normal -- but that's not normal."

Champions League the measure of my success at City, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday.

Ahead of Friday's draw, European soccer's governing body said it would amend the scheduling if both Manchester clubs are drawn to play their home games in the same week.

UEFA said United, who finished below champions City in the Premier League last season, would have their fixture reversed.

The quarter-final first-legs will be played on April 9/10 with the return legs scheduled for April 16/17.

"Following a decision made by relevant local authorities, Manchester City and Manchester United cannot play at home on the same night, nor on consecutive nights," UEFA said.

"Should both clubs be drawn within the same sequence (home or away), the team having finished lower in the domestic league the previous season – in this case United - will be reversed in accordance with the UEFA Club Competitions Committee principles.

"In accordance with paragraph 21.01(b) of the UEFA Champions League regulations, the UEFA administration will determine which matches will be played on Tuesday, which matches on Wednesday."

UEFA said that the same rule would apply should both teams advance to the semi-finals.

There is also the possibility that derby rivals United and City could face each other in the quarter-finals or take on fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday.

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday. Ahead of Friday's draw, European soccer's governing body said it would amend the scheduling if both Manchester clubs are drawn to play their home games in the same week. UEFA said United, who finished below champions City in the Premier League last season, would have their fixture reversed. The quarter-final first-legs will be played on April 9/10 with the return legs scheduled for April 16/17. "Following a decision made by relevant local authorities, Manchester City and Manchester United cannot play at home on the same night, nor on consecutive nights," UEFA said. "Should both clubs be drawn within the same sequence (home or away), the team having finished lower in the domestic league the previous season – in this case United - will be reversed in accordance with the UEFA Club Competitions Committee principles. "In accordance with paragraph 21.01(b) of the UEFA Champions League regulations, the UEFA administration will determine which matches will be played on Tuesday, which matches on Wednesday." UEFA said that the same rule would apply should both teams advance to the semi-finals. There is also the possibility that derby rivals United and City could face each other in the quarter-finals or take on fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester United could have Champions League fixtures reversed: UEFA

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-outplay-bayern-munich-to-reach-quarter-finals-203183">Barcelona reached the quarter-finals</a> of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France.

Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart.

Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout.

"We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez.

"We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer."

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win.

His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner.

Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut.

Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic.

But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop.

He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele.

Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi.

"We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said.

"There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent."

Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate. Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France. Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart. Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout. "We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez. "We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer." Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win. His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner. Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut. Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic. But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop. He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele. Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw. Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi. "We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said. "There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent." Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Champions League: Messi's double strike crushes Olympique Lyonnais; Barcelona reach quarter-finals

Liverpool showed they are back as one of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldos-hat-trick-against-atletico-madrid-powers-juventus-into-quarter-finals-202975"> European football's powerhouses</a> after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-seven-up-for-manchester-city-as-they-demolish-schalke-203025">last season's Champions League</a> runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended."

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended." "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Champions League: Liverpool outplay Bayern Munich to reach quarter-finals

Who is better, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? Champions League will decide

Juventus forward <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-won-five-champions-leagues-and-these-guys-zero-says-ronaldo-after-defeat-to-atletico-madrid-198786">Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed</a> a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-to-compare-real-madrid-with-juventus-says-cristiano-ronaldo-172952">Ronaldo blasted home</a> the decisive goal from a penalty with four minutes left to seal a 3-2 overall triumph having made the breakthrough in the 27th minute and levelled the aggregate score three minutes after halftime with another towering header.

It was his eighth hat-trick in the Champions League, pulling him level with Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and took the Portugal international's tally in his favourite club competition, where he is the all-time leading scorer, to 124.

The former Real Madrid player, aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time with his third different club, having also lifted the trophy with Manchester United, took his tally against Atletico to 25 goals in 33 matches in all competitions.

"This was why Juventus brought me here, to help do things that they have never done before," said Ronaldo, now 34. "This is the mentality you need to win in the Champions League."

Shell-shocked Atletico failed to muster a shot on target as they paid the price for an ultra-cautious approach by defensive-minded coach Diego Simeone in the last-16 second leg tie.

"Simply an epic match," said Juve's Giorgio Chiellini. "The best way to celebrate my 500th appearance for the club."

Defender Chiellini had the ball in the visitors' net after just four minutes following a goalmouth scramble but it was disallowed for foul by Ronaldo on goalkeeper Jan Oblak.

The Serie A side bombarded the Atletico area with crosses but made little headway against a packed defence until Federico Bernardeschi switched to the left and floated a cross to the far post where Ronaldo outjumped Juanfran to head in.

With Atletico making little effort to look for the away goal that could have changed the complexion of the tie, Juventus continued to press forward.

Bernardeschi curled a free kick over the crossbar and also produced an ambitious bicycle kick which flew wide before Chiellini had a header tipped over by Oblak.

Atletico's first real chance fell to on-loan striker Alvaro Morata who got between two defenders to meet Koke's cross from the right only to head over.

Juve went straight back on the attack after the break and quickly levelled the aggregate score at 2-2.

Ronaldo met Joao Cancelo's cross with another powerful header and although Oblak clawed the ball away, goal line technology showed that it had crossed the line by centimetres and the referee signalled a goal.

Atletico brought on Vitolo and Angel Correa in an attempt to add more bite to their attack but to no avail.

With extra-time looming, Bernardeschi powered into the area and was pushed in the back by Correa, leaving Ronaldo to blast home the penalty to the delight of the Juve supporters.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday. Ronaldo blasted home the decisive goal from a penalty with four minutes left to seal a 3-2 overall triumph having made the breakthrough in the 27th minute and levelled the aggregate score three minutes after halftime with another towering header. It was his eighth hat-trick in the Champions League, pulling him level with Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and took the Portugal international's tally in his favourite club competition, where he is the all-time leading scorer, to 124. The former Real Madrid player, aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time with his third different club, having also lifted the trophy with Manchester United, took his tally against Atletico to 25 goals in 33 matches in all competitions. "This was why Juventus brought me here, to help do things that they have never done before," said Ronaldo, now 34. "This is the mentality you need to win in the Champions League." Shell-shocked Atletico failed to muster a shot on target as they paid the price for an ultra-cautious approach by defensive-minded coach Diego Simeone in the last-16 second leg tie. "Simply an epic match," said Juve's Giorgio Chiellini. "The best way to celebrate my 500th appearance for the club." Defender Chiellini had the ball in the visitors' net after just four minutes following a goalmouth scramble but it was disallowed for foul by Ronaldo on goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The Serie A side bombarded the Atletico area with crosses but made little headway against a packed defence until Federico Bernardeschi switched to the left and floated a cross to the far post where Ronaldo outjumped Juanfran to head in. With Atletico making little effort to look for the away goal that could have changed the complexion of the tie, Juventus continued to press forward. Bernardeschi curled a free kick over the crossbar and also produced an ambitious bicycle kick which flew wide before Chiellini had a header tipped over by Oblak. Atletico's first real chance fell to on-loan striker Alvaro Morata who got between two defenders to meet Koke's cross from the right only to head over. Juve went straight back on the attack after the break and quickly levelled the aggregate score at 2-2. Ronaldo met Joao Cancelo's cross with another powerful header and although Oblak clawed the ball away, goal line technology showed that it had crossed the line by centimetres and the referee signalled a goal. Atletico brought on Vitolo and Angel Correa in an attempt to add more bite to their attack but to no avail. With extra-time looming, Bernardeschi powered into the area and was pushed in the back by Correa, leaving Ronaldo to blast home the penalty to the delight of the Juve supporters.

Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick against Atletico Madrid powers Juventus into quarter-finals

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday.

Bayern have won the Bundesliga for the past six years since Klopp's Dortmund claimed back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012.

Dortmund also lost the Champions League final to Bayern in 2013 and the rivalry between the two was intensified as Bayern picked off some of Klopp's best players in Mario Goetze, Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski.

"It's nothing, not a little bit personal," said Klopp on Monday. "There were never any negative things with Bayern but when we played them or when they bought our players how could I be happy and say 'Great, good idea I'll bring him in my car.'&nbsp;

"That was not nice for us at Dortmund but it's part of the business. In these moments I was not happy, but it is long ago."

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Join us LIVE with the boss, ahead of our clash with <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBayernEN</a>. 
 
Klopp gives the latest team news and updates as <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChampionsLeague</a> football returns to Anfield. 🙌 
 
▶️ Enjoy more on <a href="https://twitter.com/LFCTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LFCTV</a> GO: <a href="https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4">https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4</a> <a href="https://t.co/mWtv04CR89">https://t.co/mWtv04CR89</a>
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Despite reaching four semi-finals and a quarter-final since 2013, Bayern have not added to their five European Cup wins since Arjen Robben's late winner at Wembley six years ago.

Liverpool also came close to adding to their five European crowns last season when losing out to Real Madrid in the final, but Klopp believes the fact his side are even considered contenders for the title now is a sure sign of progress since he was hired in 2015.

"The best thing of all the things we did so far since we are together is that we are a real competitor again. That is of course not enough, but it is a big step," added Klopp.

"Being not only part of the competition but people thinking we can beat Bayern, that's a big thing. The story so far is a nice one but not finished yet."

Liverpool have had 10 days to prepare for Bayern's visit, but despite the lay-off Klopp still has defensive problems to resolve.

Virgil van Dijk is suspended, Joe Gomez is sidelined with a lower leg fracture and Dejan Lovren faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury, so Joel Matip and Fabinho are expected to form a make-shift centre-back pairing.

However, Klopp is hoping the power of Anfield's famous atmosphere on a European night will give his side the extra helping hand they need to take a lead to Germany in three weeks' time.

"In Germany a lot of people talk now about the atmosphere at Anfield. There was a lot of talk that we are maybe the most emotional club in world football," added Klopp.

"Emotion in my opinion is a very positive thing, so let's show that tomorrow night."

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday.

Jurgen Klopp has buried the hatchet of his old Bundesliga rivalry with Bayern Munich but wants Liverpool to show they are Champions League contenders by beating the German giants when the sides meet in the first leg of their last 16 tie on Tuesday. Bayern have won the Bundesliga for the past six years since Klopp's Dortmund claimed back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012. Dortmund also lost the Champions League final to Bayern in 2013 and the rivalry between the two was intensified as Bayern picked off some of Klopp's best players in Mario Goetze, Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski. "It's nothing, not a little bit personal," said Klopp on Monday. "There were never any negative things with Bayern but when we played them or when they bought our players how could I be happy and say 'Great, good idea I'll bring him in my car.' "That was not nice for us at Dortmund but it's part of the business. In these moments I was not happy, but it is long ago." Join us LIVE with the boss, ahead of our clash with @FCBayernEN. Klopp gives the latest team news and updates as @ChampionsLeague football returns to Anfield. 🙌 ▶️ Enjoy more on @LFCTV GO: https://t.co/BxfzKkm3b4 https://t.co/mWtv04CR89 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 18, 2019 × Despite reaching four semi-finals and a quarter-final since 2013, Bayern have not added to their five European Cup wins since Arjen Robben's late winner at Wembley six years ago. Liverpool also came close to adding to their five European crowns last season when losing out to Real Madrid in the final, but Klopp believes the fact his side are even considered contenders for the title now is a sure sign of progress since he was hired in 2015. "The best thing of all the things we did so far since we are together is that we are a real competitor again. That is of course not enough, but it is a big step," added Klopp. "Being not only part of the competition but people thinking we can beat Bayern, that's a big thing. The story so far is a nice one but not finished yet." Liverpool have had 10 days to prepare for Bayern's visit, but despite the lay-off Klopp still has defensive problems to resolve. Virgil van Dijk is suspended, Joe Gomez is sidelined with a lower leg fracture and Dejan Lovren faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury, so Joel Matip and Fabinho are expected to form a make-shift centre-back pairing. However, Klopp is hoping the power of Anfield's famous atmosphere on a European night will give his side the extra helping hand they need to take a lead to Germany in three weeks' time. "In Germany a lot of people talk now about the atmosphere at Anfield. There was a lot of talk that we are maybe the most emotional club in world football," added Klopp. "Emotion in my opinion is a very positive thing, so let's show that tomorrow night."

'Nothing personal' in beating Bayern for Jurgen Klopp

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday.

Coman, 22, put in an outstanding display on Friday, scoring twice and making the third goal, as Bayern twice came from behind despite conceding an own goal with just 13 seconds gone.

Bayern, who face Liverpool at Anfield at Tuesday in the last 16 first leg match, were left holding their breath on Coman's fitness.

Coach Niko Kovac seemed pessimistic Friday and said it would be "annoying" if the Frenchman, who only returned from injury in December, missed the Liverpool match.

But on Saturday Bayern gave Coman the go-ahead.

"After a thorough examination conducted by the Bayern medical staff Saturday morning we can say it was a false alert," the club said on its website.

Coman only returned to full fitness in December after tearing ligaments in the same ankle last August.

"When he was injured (on the opening day of the season), we missed him a lot," said Kovac.

"So I hope he can play (against Liverpool)."

Bayern's away victory on Friday saw the defending champions cut the gap on leaders Borussia Dortmund to just two points. Dortmund play bottom side Nuremberg on Monday.

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday.

Bayern Munich's on-form striker Kingsley Coman has been given the green light to face Liverpool in the Champions League after fears he had sustained ligament damage in the 3-2 Bundesliga win over Augsburg were dispelled on Saturday. Coman, 22, put in an outstanding display on Friday, scoring twice and making the third goal, as Bayern twice came from behind despite conceding an own goal with just 13 seconds gone. Bayern, who face Liverpool at Anfield at Tuesday in the last 16 first leg match, were left holding their breath on Coman's fitness. Coach Niko Kovac seemed pessimistic Friday and said it would be "annoying" if the Frenchman, who only returned from injury in December, missed the Liverpool match. But on Saturday Bayern gave Coman the go-ahead. "After a thorough examination conducted by the Bayern medical staff Saturday morning we can say it was a false alert," the club said on its website. Coman only returned to full fitness in December after tearing ligaments in the same ankle last August. "When he was injured (on the opening day of the season), we missed him a lot," said Kovac. "So I hope he can play (against Liverpool)." Bayern's away victory on Friday saw the defending champions cut the gap on leaders Borussia Dortmund to just two points. Dortmund play bottom side Nuremberg on Monday.

Bayern Munich clear Kingsley Coman for Liverpool Champions League match

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250">Maduro making </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250">terrible</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-making-terrible-mistake-by-not-allowing-aid-to-enter-venezuela-trump-197250"> mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump</a>

The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sweden-sign-agreement-for-greater-cooperation-on-technology-manufacturing-197256">India, Sweden sign key pacts on technology, manufacturing</a>

The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gully-boy-quick-review-you-dont-have-to-be-a-fan-of-hip-hop-to-like-this-film-197233">'Gully Boy' quick review: You don't have to be a fan of hip-hop to like this film</a>

'Gully Boy' is the story of an honest, diligent Murad who may share a cube-like home with his large family in Dharavi but who also harbours dreams of becoming the next big thing in hip-hop.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pak-saudi-arabia-sri-lanka-in-european-commission-blacklist-for-terror-financing-money-laundering-197258">Pak, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka in European Commission blacklist for terror financing, money laundering</a>

The European Commission had added Saudi Arabia, Panama, Nigeria and other jurisdictions to a blacklist of nations seen as posing a threat because of lax controls on terrorism financing and money laundering.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-edge-out-ajax-as-asensio-scores-late-winner-197252">Champions League: Real Madrid edge out Ajax as Asensio scores late winner</a>

Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax.

Maduro making terrible mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro.

Maduro making terrible mistake by not allowing aid to enter Venezuela: Trump The US aid, sitting on the Colombian side of the border with Venezuela, has become the latest flashpoint in the US-led push to topple Maduro. India, Sweden sign key pacts on technology, manufacturing The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing. 'Gully Boy' quick review: You don't have to be a fan of hip-hop to like this film 'Gully Boy' is the story of an honest, diligent Murad who may share a cube-like home with his large family in Dharavi but who also harbours dreams of becoming the next big thing in hip-hop. Pak, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka in European Commission blacklist for terror financing, money laundering The European Commission had added Saudi Arabia, Panama, Nigeria and other jurisdictions to a blacklist of nations seen as posing a threat because of lax controls on terrorism financing and money laundering. Champions League: Real Madrid edge out Ajax as Asensio scores late winner Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Real Madrid's Marco Asensio scored a late winner in a 2-1 victory at Ajax Amsterdam, who were left to rue a goal disallowed by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/var-gets-ready-for-champions-league-debut-197008">Video Assistant Referee (VAR)</a> in their Champions League last-16, first leg on Wednesday.

Asensio netted in the 87th minute from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-psg-take-charge-with-2-0-win-at-united-pogba-sent-off-197032">Dani Carvajal’s excellent cross </a>to give Real the advantage heading into the return leg on March 5.

Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax, who created more than enough chances to win comfortably on the night.

They were also denied a first-half opener when Nicolas Tagliafico headed home only for the goal to be chalked off after a VAR check in a Champions League first as Dusan Tadic was judged offside.

Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose blushes were spared by the VAR decision after his error led to the disallowed goal, felt the officials got it right.

"The correct decision? I think so," he told reporters. "When it happened I thought it could be offside. When the guy headed it I wanted to go and catch it.

"Because of his (Tadic's) intention I made a quick movement. Luckily for VAR because nobody would have seen it."

Sergio Ramos, making his 600th appearance for Real, backed the intervention of VAR and warned Ajax they will face a daunting task in the second leg.

"I have said many times that I am a great defender of the VAR because it will make football fairer little by little," Ramos said.

"We knew how to suffer, read the game and create spaces against them to take advantage of our speed. We achieved a great result and now it's up to them to suffer in our stadium."

The home side thought they had profited from a horror error by Courtois, who allowed a Donny van de Beek header to spill from his grasp and Tagliafico nodded the rebound into an empty net.

Yet referee Damir Skomina called for a VAR check and after a number of replays, ruled that Tadic had been standing in an offside position when the goal was scored.

Benzema put Real in front when he netted on the hour-mark, but Ajax got the goal their play deserved with 15 minutes remaining as Ziyech side-footed home after a sweeping move.

Yet Asensio had the final word, scoring at the back post from Carvajal’s cross.

"As a team we did well, it was too bad that our goal is rejected. Perhaps something like that is easy to do in favour of the big club," Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong said.

"But we have continued well and have received our opportunities afterwards. Too bad it did not yield a better result."

 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid's Marco Asensio scored a late winner in a 2-1 victory at Ajax Amsterdam, who were left to rue a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in their Champions League last-16, first leg on Wednesday.

Real Madrid's Marco Asensio scored a late winner in a 2-1 victory at Ajax Amsterdam, who were left to rue a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in their Champions League last-16, first leg on Wednesday. Asensio netted in the 87th minute from Dani Carvajal’s excellent cross to give Real the advantage heading into the return leg on March 5. Karim Benzema swept holders Real into the lead in the second half, before Hakim Ziyech scored a deserved equaliser for an energetic Ajax, who created more than enough chances to win comfortably on the night. They were also denied a first-half opener when Nicolas Tagliafico headed home only for the goal to be chalked off after a VAR check in a Champions League first as Dusan Tadic was judged offside. Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose blushes were spared by the VAR decision after his error led to the disallowed goal, felt the officials got it right. "The correct decision? I think so," he told reporters. "When it happened I thought it could be offside. When the guy headed it I wanted to go and catch it. "Because of his (Tadic's) intention I made a quick movement. Luckily for VAR because nobody would have seen it." Sergio Ramos, making his 600th appearance for Real, backed the intervention of VAR and warned Ajax they will face a daunting task in the second leg. "I have said many times that I am a great defender of the VAR because it will make football fairer little by little," Ramos said. "We knew how to suffer, read the game and create spaces against them to take advantage of our speed. We achieved a great result and now it's up to them to suffer in our stadium." The home side thought they had profited from a horror error by Courtois, who allowed a Donny van de Beek header to spill from his grasp and Tagliafico nodded the rebound into an empty net. Yet referee Damir Skomina called for a VAR check and after a number of replays, ruled that Tadic had been standing in an offside position when the goal was scored. Benzema put Real in front when he netted on the hour-mark, but Ajax got the goal their play deserved with 15 minutes remaining as Ziyech side-footed home after a sweeping move. Yet Asensio had the final word, scoring at the back post from Carvajal’s cross. "As a team we did well, it was too bad that our goal is rejected. Perhaps something like that is easy to do in favour of the big club," Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong said. "But we have continued well and have received our opportunities afterwards. Too bad it did not yield a better result."

Champions League: Real Madrid edge out Ajax as Asensio scores late winner

Manchester United's Champions League hopes were hanging by a thread after a 2-0 home defeat by Paris St Germain in their round-of-16, first leg match on Tuesday, with talisman Paul Pogba sent off late in the game.

Second half goals from Presnel Kimpembe and Kylian Mbappe gave the impressive French side a clear advantage ahead of the return in Paris on March 6 and Pogba's dismissal for a second yellow card in the 89th minute makes the task even harder.

"We're happy, but it's only halftime," said Mbappe. "In the last 20 minutes, we were hit by fatigue. We now have three weeks to make sure we're ready to clinch our qualification."

United had never previously lost at home in European competition by a margin of more than one goal and history suggests their task in the second leg is extremely tough.

No team has ever progressed having lost the first leg of a Champions League knockout tie at home by two or more goals.

It was United's first defeat under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer since he took over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December and the Norwegian accepted it had been a reality check after 10 wins in 11 games domestically.

"When they got the first goal... they got the momentum and started to control the game," Solskjaer told BT Sport. "You can see we haven't played games at this level for a while and we'll have to learn from this experience.

Asked if United now had a mountain to climb in the second leg, Solskjaer said: "Mountains are there to be climbed. You cannot lay down and say this is over. Today was a kind of reality check on the level of these teams."

Aggressive start

United made a highly aggressive start to the game but too often their forwards chose the wrong option or failed to deliver the right pass, although Marcus Rashford and Pogba tested PSG's 41-year-old keeper Gianluigi Buffon with near-post shots.

Thomas Tuchel's side, who were without injured forwards Neymar and Edinson Cavani, gradually gained the ascendancy - with Marco Verratti and Marquinhos dominant in midfield.

Mbappe should have hit the target when he was slipped through by Julian Draxler in the 28th minute but fired wide.

United had to play the second half without forwards Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial, who picked up muscle injuries, and their night got worse in the 53rd minute when Kimpembe ghosted in at the back post to volley home a corner from Angel Di Maria.

Former United winger Di Maria, booed from the outset by sections of the crowd, had the last laugh when he collected a fine pass from Marquinhos and set up Mbappe for the second goal.

The Argentine broke down the left and delivered a low cross which was expertly turned in, first time, by 20-year-old France World Cup winner Mbappe who showed lightning speed to get ahead of the defence and turn the ball in with his right foot.

A disappointing night for United got worse when midfielder Pogba was sent off for a second booking after a foul on Dani Alves, leaving PSG in pole position to reach the last eight.

"It is a great achievement to come here and win," said Tuchel, who praised his team's confidence and work ethic.

"But we also know that United are capable of winning in Paris -- you can’t rest on your laurels and start thinking about the quarter-finals now….its only halftime," he said.

Manchester United's Champions League hopes were hanging by a thread after a 2-0 home defeat by Paris St Germain in their round-of-16, first leg match on Tuesday, with talisman Paul Pogba sent off late in the game.

Manchester United's Champions League hopes were hanging by a thread after a 2-0 home defeat by Paris St Germain in their round-of-16, first leg match on Tuesday, with talisman Paul Pogba sent off late in the game. Second half goals from Presnel Kimpembe and Kylian Mbappe gave the impressive French side a clear advantage ahead of the return in Paris on March 6 and Pogba's dismissal for a second yellow card in the 89th minute makes the task even harder. "We're happy, but it's only halftime," said Mbappe. "In the last 20 minutes, we were hit by fatigue. We now have three weeks to make sure we're ready to clinch our qualification." United had never previously lost at home in European competition by a margin of more than one goal and history suggests their task in the second leg is extremely tough. No team has ever progressed having lost the first leg of a Champions League knockout tie at home by two or more goals. It was United's first defeat under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer since he took over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December and the Norwegian accepted it had been a reality check after 10 wins in 11 games domestically. "When they got the first goal... they got the momentum and started to control the game," Solskjaer told BT Sport. "You can see we haven't played games at this level for a while and we'll have to learn from this experience. Asked if United now had a mountain to climb in the second leg, Solskjaer said: "Mountains are there to be climbed. You cannot lay down and say this is over. Today was a kind of reality check on the level of these teams." Aggressive start United made a highly aggressive start to the game but too often their forwards chose the wrong option or failed to deliver the right pass, although Marcus Rashford and Pogba tested PSG's 41-year-old keeper Gianluigi Buffon with near-post shots. Thomas Tuchel's side, who were without injured forwards Neymar and Edinson Cavani, gradually gained the ascendancy - with Marco Verratti and Marquinhos dominant in midfield. Mbappe should have hit the target when he was slipped through by Julian Draxler in the 28th minute but fired wide. United had to play the second half without forwards Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial, who picked up muscle injuries, and their night got worse in the 53rd minute when Kimpembe ghosted in at the back post to volley home a corner from Angel Di Maria. Former United winger Di Maria, booed from the outset by sections of the crowd, had the last laugh when he collected a fine pass from Marquinhos and set up Mbappe for the second goal. The Argentine broke down the left and delivered a low cross which was expertly turned in, first time, by 20-year-old France World Cup winner Mbappe who showed lightning speed to get ahead of the defence and turn the ball in with his right foot. A disappointing night for United got worse when midfielder Pogba was sent off for a second booking after a foul on Dani Alves, leaving PSG in pole position to reach the last eight. "It is a great achievement to come here and win," said Tuchel, who praised his team's confidence and work ethic. "But we also know that United are capable of winning in Paris -- you can’t rest on your laurels and start thinking about the quarter-finals now….its only halftime," he said.

Champions League: PSG take charge with 2-0 win at United, Pogba sent off

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Neymar">Neymar</a> is doubtful for next month's Champions League clash against Manchester United after Paris St Germain confirmed the forward has injured a metatarsal in his right foot during their 2-0 French Cup win over Strasbourg on Wednesday.

Neymar, 26, left the pitch after twisting his foot and the club said initial examinations revealed a "reactivation of the lesion of the fifth right metatarsal", adding that treatment would depend on how the injury heals in the next few days.

The Brazilian had fractured the same metatarsal last February and required surgery that effectively ended his club campaign. He returned to action in May, in time for the World Cup in Russia.

"Neymar is worried, because it's the same foot, the right foot, in the same area," PSG manager Thomas Tuchel told reporters.

Tuchel criticised the referee for not protecting the Brazilian when Strasbourg's players repeatedly fouled him.

"The referee didn't whistle on one occasion, then two, then three and after that he ended up twisting his foot," he added.

PSG face United at Old Trafford for the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 clash on Feb. 12.

PSG, who hold a 13-point lead in Ligue 1 with 53 points from 19 games, return to league action on Sunday when they host Rennes.

Neymar is doubtful for next month's Champions League clash against Manchester United after Paris St Germain confirmed the forward has injured a metatarsal in his right foot during their 2-0 French Cup win over Strasbourg on Wednesday.

Neymar is doubtful for next month's Champions League clash against Manchester United after Paris St Germain confirmed the forward has injured a metatarsal in his right foot during their 2-0 French Cup win over Strasbourg on Wednesday. Neymar, 26, left the pitch after twisting his foot and the club said initial examinations revealed a "reactivation of the lesion of the fifth right metatarsal", adding that treatment would depend on how the injury heals in the next few days. The Brazilian had fractured the same metatarsal last February and required surgery that effectively ended his club campaign. He returned to action in May, in time for the World Cup in Russia. "Neymar is worried, because it's the same foot, the right foot, in the same area," PSG manager Thomas Tuchel told reporters. Tuchel criticised the referee for not protecting the Brazilian when Strasbourg's players repeatedly fouled him. "The referee didn't whistle on one occasion, then two, then three and after that he ended up twisting his foot," he added. PSG face United at Old Trafford for the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 clash on Feb. 12. PSG, who hold a 13-point lead in Ligue 1 with 53 points from 19 games, return to league action on Sunday when they host Rennes.

Foot injury makes Neymar a doubt for Champions League clash

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho responded to his side's 3-1 derby <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-beat-manchester-united-to-go-top-of-premier-league-176716">defeat to Premier League leaders Manchester City </a>on Sunday by saying his team had paid the price for their midweek Champions League exertions in beating Juventus.

United fought back for a 2-1 victory against the Italian champions in Turin on Wednesday while City cruised through a home game against Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk 6-0 and the Portuguese manager was quick to point out that context.

He said the players were feeling it physically and mentally.

Mourinho was without French midfielder Paul Pogba, sidelined with injury, and while the United boss did not want to use that absence as an excuse, he said the need to play Marouane Fellaini had limited his later options.

Despite City largely controlling the game, it took a late third goal by their substitute Ilkay Gundogan to ensure there could be no repeat of United's dramatic comeback to win 3-2 in the same fixture last season.

United remain eighth, 12 points behind the leaders, and manager Mourinho refused to talk about his team still having any sort of title chances.

Pep Guardiola, City's manager, was quick to point out that Liverpool and Chelsea had also made strong starts to the campaign and said it was too early to be discussing where the title may be heading.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho responded to his side's 3-1 derby defeat to Premier League leaders Manchester City on Sunday by saying his team had paid the price for their midweek Champions League exertions in beating Juventus.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho responded to his side's 3-1 derby defeat to Premier League leaders Manchester City on Sunday by saying his team had paid the price for their midweek Champions League exertions in beating Juventus. United fought back for a 2-1 victory against the Italian champions in Turin on Wednesday while City cruised through a home game against Ukrainians Shakhtar Donetsk 6-0 and the Portuguese manager was quick to point out that context. He said the players were feeling it physically and mentally. Mourinho was without French midfielder Paul Pogba, sidelined with injury, and while the United boss did not want to use that absence as an excuse, he said the need to play Marouane Fellaini had limited his later options. Despite City largely controlling the game, it took a late third goal by their substitute Ilkay Gundogan to ensure there could be no repeat of United's dramatic comeback to win 3-2 in the same fixture last season. United remain eighth, 12 points behind the leaders, and manager Mourinho refused to talk about his team still having any sort of title chances. Pep Guardiola, City's manager, was quick to point out that Liverpool and Chelsea had also made strong starts to the campaign and said it was too early to be discussing where the title may be heading.

Mourinho blames Man United's Juventus exertions for derby loss

Manchester United snatched an extraordinary and barely-deserved 2-1 win at Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday with a late free kick from Juan Mata and a scrappy own goal reviving their hopes of reaching the last 16.

Cristiano Ronaldo looked to have haunted the club which turned him into a global superstar when he volleyed in the opening goal in the 65th minute after Juventus had dominated proceedings and struck the woodwork twice.

Jose Mourinho's side had looked toothless in attack but after the Portuguese threw on Mata, Marouane Fellaini and Marcus Rashford late in the game they staged the most unlikely of comebacks to revive memories of their epic 3-2 win from two goals down in Turin in the 1999 semi-finals.

Spaniard Mata equalised with a perfectly-executed free kick in the 86th minute and United caused bedlam in the Juve area with another set-piece, with the ball appearing to go into the net off Alex Sandro after a knockdown from Fellaini.

Competition organisers UEFA later credited Juve defender Leonardo Bonucci with the goal, which meant United became the first English team to beat Juventus away from home in 15 years, when a previous United team, inspired by Ryan Giggs, won 3-0 at the old Stadio dello Alpi in 2003.

The stunning finale prevented Juventus from sealing their place in the last 16. They still lead Group H with nine points but United are second on seven, two ahead of Valencia in third place, while Young Boys are bottom of the group and can no longer finish in the top two.

Defeat would have likely obliged United to beat Young Boys at home and Valencia away to qualify. Now they can seal qualification for the last-16 with a victory against the Swiss side if Valencia fail to beat Juventus in their next fixture.

"We thought we were going to have two finals to play. Now we have one final. A win against Young Boys could do it. Let's hope we can qualify," Mourinho told reporters.

Despite the fact Juventus had squandered so many chances to score, the coach also insisted his side had played well.

"I'm really proud of my boys because their performance was really good. Juventus had one opportunity in the first half, but everything was under control," he said.

"Even if we had not been handed victory in the end I would have been pleased, because we played very well."

Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri cursed his side's inability to see out the game.

"It's a disappointing defeat, because the team played well. We need to improve our finishing, because we never manage to finish games off when we're in control," he said.

Juve's dominant performance at Old Trafford two weeks ago appeared to underline the current gulf in class between the two European greats, which was also reflected in their respective domestic results: Juve are riding high, six points clear at the top of Serie A, while United are seventh in the Premier League.

DEADLY VOLLEY

Juve began strongly and almost went ahead when Sami Khedira side-footed a cross from Ronaldo against the far post.

The Italian champions again struck the woodwork in the second half when Paulo Dybala clipped the crossbar from outside the area, and there was more than an air of inevitability about Ronaldo's deadly volley, created by a classy chipped pass from Bonucci, which broke the deadlock.

This time there was to be no muted celebration from the Portuguese who lifted his shirt to flex his chest muscles before high-fiving team mates.

He could hardly have envisaged the stirring comeback his old side would later conjure, which ended with Mourinho being booed off the pitch after appearing to taunt the home fans.

Manchester United snatched an extraordinary and barely-deserved 2-1 win at Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday with a late free kick from Juan Mata and a scrappy own goal reviving their hopes of reaching the last 16.

Manchester United snatched an extraordinary and barely-deserved 2-1 win at Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday with a late free kick from Juan Mata and a scrappy own goal reviving their hopes of reaching the last 16. Cristiano Ronaldo looked to have haunted the club which turned him into a global superstar when he volleyed in the opening goal in the 65th minute after Juventus had dominated proceedings and struck the woodwork twice. Jose Mourinho's side had looked toothless in attack but after the Portuguese threw on Mata, Marouane Fellaini and Marcus Rashford late in the game they staged the most unlikely of comebacks to revive memories of their epic 3-2 win from two goals down in Turin in the 1999 semi-finals. Spaniard Mata equalised with a perfectly-executed free kick in the 86th minute and United caused bedlam in the Juve area with another set-piece, with the ball appearing to go into the net off Alex Sandro after a knockdown from Fellaini. Competition organisers UEFA later credited Juve defender Leonardo Bonucci with the goal, which meant United became the first English team to beat Juventus away from home in 15 years, when a previous United team, inspired by Ryan Giggs, won 3-0 at the old Stadio dello Alpi in 2003. The stunning finale prevented Juventus from sealing their place in the last 16. They still lead Group H with nine points but United are second on seven, two ahead of Valencia in third place, while Young Boys are bottom of the group and can no longer finish in the top two. Defeat would have likely obliged United to beat Young Boys at home and Valencia away to qualify. Now they can seal qualification for the last-16 with a victory against the Swiss side if Valencia fail to beat Juventus in their next fixture. "We thought we were going to have two finals to play. Now we have one final. A win against Young Boys could do it. Let's hope we can qualify," Mourinho told reporters. Despite the fact Juventus had squandered so many chances to score, the coach also insisted his side had played well. "I'm really proud of my boys because their performance was really good. Juventus had one opportunity in the first half, but everything was under control," he said. "Even if we had not been handed victory in the end I would have been pleased, because we played very well." Juve manager Massimiliano Allegri cursed his side's inability to see out the game. "It's a disappointing defeat, because the team played well. We need to improve our finishing, because we never manage to finish games off when we're in control," he said. Juve's dominant performance at Old Trafford two weeks ago appeared to underline the current gulf in class between the two European greats, which was also reflected in their respective domestic results: Juve are riding high, six points clear at the top of Serie A, while United are seventh in the Premier League. DEADLY VOLLEY Juve began strongly and almost went ahead when Sami Khedira side-footed a cross from Ronaldo against the far post. The Italian champions again struck the woodwork in the second half when Paulo Dybala clipped the crossbar from outside the area, and there was more than an air of inevitability about Ronaldo's deadly volley, created by a classy chipped pass from Bonucci, which broke the deadlock. This time there was to be no muted celebration from the Portuguese who lifted his shirt to flex his chest muscles before high-fiving team mates. He could hardly have envisaged the stirring comeback his old side would later conjure, which ended with Mourinho being booed off the pitch after appearing to taunt the home fans.

Champions League: Manchester United fight back to snatch unlikely late win at Juventus