AC Milan have parted ways with technical director and former playing great Paolo Maldini, the Serie A club said on Tuesday (June 6).

Maldini, 54, returned to the club nine years after his retirement from soccer and was promoted to the Rossoneri's technical director role in 2019, less than a year after he became the director of sporting strategy and development.

"AC Milan announce that Paolo Maldini concludes his role at the club, effective as of June 5, 2023," said a club statement.

"We thank him for his years of service in the role, contributing to the return to the Champions League and to winning the Scudetto in 2021/22."

The ex-Italy defender spent his 25-year playing career with Milan and was captain in their most successful era, winning five Champions Leagues, seven Serie A titles, four European Super Cups and a Club World Cup, before hanging up his boots at 41.

Maldini's stint as technical director saw Milan win the 2021-22 Serie A title, their first in over a decade, with players such as Rafael Leao, Theo Hernandez, Oliver Giroud, and Fikayo Tomori having joined the club.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-may-pull-out-of-asia-cup-if-hybrid-model-rejected-report-601189">Pakistan may pull out of Asia Cup if hybrid model is rejected: Report</a>

According to Italian media, Maldini's exit is said to have shocked Milan's players.

"His day-to-day duties will be performed by a team working in close integration with the first team manager, ultimately reporting to the CEO," added the Milan statement.

Milan finished fourth in last season's league standings and reached the Champions League semi-finals, where they lost 3-0 on aggregate to Inter Milan.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

AC Milan have parted ways with technical director and former playing great Paolo Maldini, the Serie A club said on Tuesday (June 6). Maldini, 54, returned to the club nine years after his retirement from soccer and was promoted to the Rossoneri's technical director role in 2019, less than a year after he became the director of sporting strategy and development.

AC Milan have parted ways with technical director and former playing great Paolo Maldini, the Serie A club said on Tuesday (June 6). Maldini, 54, returned to the club nine years after his retirement from soccer and was promoted to the Rossoneri's technical director role in 2019, less than a year after he became the director of sporting strategy and development. "AC Milan announce that Paolo Maldini concludes his role at the club, effective as of June 5, 2023," said a club statement. "We thank him for his years of service in the role, contributing to the return to the Champions League and to winning the Scudetto in 2021/22." The ex-Italy defender spent his 25-year playing career with Milan and was captain in their most successful era, winning five Champions Leagues, seven Serie A titles, four European Super Cups and a Club World Cup, before hanging up his boots at 41. Maldini's stint as technical director saw Milan win the 2021-22 Serie A title, their first in over a decade, with players such as Rafael Leao, Theo Hernandez, Oliver Giroud, and Fikayo Tomori having joined the club. ALSO READ | Pakistan may pull out of Asia Cup if hybrid model is rejected: Report According to Italian media, Maldini's exit is said to have shocked Milan's players. "His day-to-day duties will be performed by a team working in close integration with the first team manager, ultimately reporting to the CEO," added the Milan statement. Milan finished fourth in last season's league standings and reached the Champions League semi-finals, where they lost 3-0 on aggregate to Inter Milan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AC Milan part ways with technical director Paolo Maldini, ends four-year stint at club

Manchester City will eye European glory under Pep Guardiola as they will face holders Real Madrid in the second leg on Wednesday, May 17 at the Etihad Stadium. After a controversial 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium last week, City will look to book their berth in the final on June 10 where they will face Inter Milan. While City chase European glory, holders Real will be up for the occasion as they try to add their sixth Champions League title in less than a decade.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Manchester. The world is watching 🍿<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9ri9r5NYW">pic.twitter.com/Y9ri9r5NYW</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1658730066711572481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Pep set for revenge?</h2>

Revenge will be on the cards on Wednesday evening knowing, City were eliminated by Real last season after a frantic 6-5 win over two legs. While Pep’s men won the first leg 4-3, they narrowly missed out on the final despite leading the second leg 1-0 until the 89th minute. The wounded English champions have been on a great run recently and are yet to lose a game on home turf in 2023. As things stand, City’s dream of treble is still on but could take heavy dents if they fail to capitalise on their home turf.

<h2>Real look for glory</h2>

Unlike City, Carlo Ancelotti’s side has endured a tough league campaign as they surrendered the league title to arch-rivals Barcelona on Sunday. However, the season could still end on a high as they could lift a double of Copa del Rey and Champions League. Currently, they are hunting for their 15th Champions League title while they will look to win their sixth European title in nine years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-feel-they-have-the-power-to-comment-or-say-what-they-want-kl-rahul-hits-back-at-online-trolls-593314">People feel they have the power to comment or say what they want: KL Rahul hits back at online trolls</a>

Carlo Ancelotti will have a full strength side where they will bank on the shoulders of Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr along with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. On the flip side city will have the reliable Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bryune in their ranks as they try to go all the way to the final in Istanbul on June 10.

<h2>Man City v Real Madrid team news</h2>

Man City predicted line-up: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji; Stones, Rodri; Silva, Gundogan, De Bruyne, Grealish; Haaland.

Real Madrid predicted line-up: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Kroos, Camavinga, Modric; Valverde, Vinicius Junior, Benzema.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Manchester City will eye European glory under Pep Guardiola as they will face holders Real Madrid in the second leg on Wednesday, May 17 at the Etihad Stadium. After a controversial 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium last week, City will look to book their berth in the final on June 10 where they will face Inter Milan.

Manchester City will eye European glory under Pep Guardiola as they will face holders Real Madrid in the second leg on Wednesday, May 17 at the Etihad Stadium. After a controversial 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium last week, City will look to book their berth in the final on June 10 where they will face Inter Milan. While City chase European glory, holders Real will be up for the occasion as they try to add their sixth Champions League title in less than a decade. Manchester. The world is watching 🍿#UCL pic.twitter.com/Y9ri9r5NYW — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 × Pep set for revenge? Revenge will be on the cards on Wednesday evening knowing, City were eliminated by Real last season after a frantic 6-5 win over two legs. While Pep’s men won the first leg 4-3, they narrowly missed out on the final despite leading the second leg 1-0 until the 89th minute. The wounded English champions have been on a great run recently and are yet to lose a game on home turf in 2023. As things stand, City’s dream of treble is still on but could take heavy dents if they fail to capitalise on their home turf. Real look for glory Unlike City, Carlo Ancelotti’s side has endured a tough league campaign as they surrendered the league title to arch-rivals Barcelona on Sunday. However, the season could still end on a high as they could lift a double of Copa del Rey and Champions League. Currently, they are hunting for their 15th Champions League title while they will look to win their sixth European title in nine years. ALSO READ | People feel they have the power to comment or say what they want: KL Rahul hits back at online trolls Carlo Ancelotti will have a full strength side where they will bank on the shoulders of Karim Benzema, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr along with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. On the flip side city will have the reliable Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bryune in their ranks as they try to go all the way to the final in Istanbul on June 10. Man City v Real Madrid team news Man City predicted line-up: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji; Stones, Rodri; Silva, Gundogan, De Bruyne, Grealish; Haaland. Real Madrid predicted line-up: Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Kroos, Camavinga, Modric; Valverde, Vinicius Junior, Benzema. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Man City chase European glory as defending champions Real Madrid plot Istanbul date

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

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

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

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

Man City will have all the tools in their arsenal as they try to down the defending and the record champion Real Madrid in their own backyard. On the flip side, Milan’s San Siro is set for a historic semifinal clash as city rivals Inter and AC Milan go head-to-head.

<h2>City chase treble</h2>

City’s wounds are still not healed from their last visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, having suffered a catastrophic defeat. Pep Guardiola’s side was leading 5-3 on aggregate until the 89th minute of the second leg before Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a remarkable comeback to level the tie and then in extra time.

Real will have the services of talisman Karim Benzema and Vinícius Júnior, while Rodrygo was seen in excellent touch in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. He scored in Real’s 2-1 win over Osasuna and will be ready to deliver against Premier League champions. City on the flip side will bank on the record-breaking Haaland who has 35 goals in the league while Kevin de Bryune is also in a rich vein of form.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-modric-to-extend-real-madrid-stay-set-to-sign-new-deal-until-2024-589990">Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024</a>

<h2>Milan set for derby</h2>

Eighteen years after playing in their last knockout stage clash in the Champions League, Milan rivals AC Milan and Inter will meet again for a historic clash. The winner of the contest will head to Istanbul to play in the final with neither team making the final in the last decade. Inter last reached the final in 2010 when they beat Bayern Munich in the final while AC Milan reached the final in 2007 as they got the better of Liverpool.

Both teams will have a chunk of talent on board with the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Edin Dzeko, Brahim Diaz and Rafael Leão. With both teams also fighting for a place in the top four of the Serie A and a direct place in the Champions League up for grabs, the contest will have huge bearings considering the significance of the situation.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Man City will have all the tools in their arsenal as they try to down the defending and the record champion Real Madrid in their own backyard. On the flip side, Milan’s San Siro is set for a historic semifinal clash as city rivals Inter and AC Milan go head-to-head.

Man City will have all the tools in their arsenal as they try to down the defending and the record champion Real Madrid in their own backyard. On the flip side, Milan’s San Siro is set for a historic semifinal clash as city rivals Inter and AC Milan go head-to-head. City chase treble City’s wounds are still not healed from their last visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, having suffered a catastrophic defeat. Pep Guardiola’s side was leading 5-3 on aggregate until the 89th minute of the second leg before Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a remarkable comeback to level the tie and then in extra time. Real will have the services of talisman Karim Benzema and Vinícius Júnior, while Rodrygo was seen in excellent touch in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. He scored in Real’s 2-1 win over Osasuna and will be ready to deliver against Premier League champions. City on the flip side will bank on the record-breaking Haaland who has 35 goals in the league while Kevin de Bryune is also in a rich vein of form. ALSO READ | Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024 Milan set for derby Eighteen years after playing in their last knockout stage clash in the Champions League, Milan rivals AC Milan and Inter will meet again for a historic clash. The winner of the contest will head to Istanbul to play in the final with neither team making the final in the last decade. Inter last reached the final in 2010 when they beat Bayern Munich in the final while AC Milan reached the final in 2007 as they got the better of Liverpool. Both teams will have a chunk of talent on board with the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Edin Dzeko, Brahim Diaz and Rafael Leão. With both teams also fighting for a place in the top four of the Serie A and a direct place in the Champions League up for grabs, the contest will have huge bearings considering the significance of the situation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champion League Preview: Real Madrid host Pep Guardiola's Man City; San Siro prepares for Milan derby

Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds won the Asian Champions League after beating Saudi Arabian defending champions Al Hilal 1-0 in Saturday's final second leg for a 2-1 aggregate win.

An own goal by Al Hilal's Andre Carrillo early in the second half gave Urawa their third Asian title in front of almost 55,000 home fans in Saitama, north of Tokyo, following a 1-1 draw in last week's opening leg in Riyadh.

"This is a scene I had only ever dream of before -- I can't believe it," said Urawa captain Hiroki Sakai.

The Japanese side had to withstand fierce first-half pressure from Al Hilal, who were looking to win a record fifth continental title and a third in four seasons.

The decisive moment came when Carrillo turned a header from Urawa's Marius Hoibraten into his own net amid strong wind in the 48th minute, before a determined rear-guard effort from the home side saw out the result and sent the crowd into delirious celebrations.

"They put us under constant pressure right from the start and it was a difficult game," said Urawa striker Shinzo Koroki, who scored his team's goal in the first leg.

"But in the second half we started to push them back and although we didn't have so many chances, we made it count when we did."

The two teams were meeting in the final of Asia's premier club competition for the third time in six years. Urawa won in 2017 but Al Hilal came out on top two years later.

Al Hilal were without injured captain Salman Al Faraj and suspended star winger Salem Al Dawsari, who was sent off late in the first leg for kicking out at Urawa's Ken Iwao.

Al Hilal manager Ramon Diaz made three changes from the first leg, dropping Malian striker Moussa Marega and bringing in experienced Peruvian Carrillo, while Urawa were unchanged.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azams-record-smashing-ton-helps-pakistan-win-4th-odi-vs-nz-claim-number-1-ranking-for-first-time-589474">Babar Azam's record-smashing ton helps Pakistan win 4th ODI vs NZ, claim number 1 ranking for first time</a>

The Saudi side had an early chance when Odion Ighalo broke clear in the box, only for Urawa defender Alexander Scholz to block his shot on the line.

Al Hilal's Michael also had a scent of goal midway through the first half, but Urawa goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa got down quickly to parry his shot.

Urawa came even closer to opening the scoring against the run of play when Shinzo Koroki, who scored his team's goal in the first leg, hit the bar with a flying volley on the half-hour mark.

Nishikawa again had to be alert to keep out a long-range Carrillo effort with the first half winding to a close, before Urawa's Yoshio Koizumi pulled a shot wide of the post at the other end.

Urawa made the perfect start to the second half when a floated free-kick from around the half-way line found Hoibraten, whose wind-assisted header found its way over the line via Carrillo's boot.

The Japanese side enjoyed far more possession from then on and Atsuki Ito almost added a second goal when he shot just wide of the post with the goalkeeper beaten.

Al Hilal posed far less attacking threat in the second half and Nishikawa was on hand to deny Ighalo when the Saudi side did create a chance late in the game.

The final was taking place more than a year after the Asian Champions League season began, with delays because of the winter World Cup in Qatar and travel complications arising from the Covid pandemic.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds won the Asian Champions League after beating Saudi Arabian defending champions Al Hilal 1-0 in Saturday's final second leg for a 2-1 aggregate win.

Japan's Urawa Red Diamonds won the Asian Champions League after beating Saudi Arabian defending champions Al Hilal 1-0 in Saturday's final second leg for a 2-1 aggregate win. An own goal by Al Hilal's Andre Carrillo early in the second half gave Urawa their third Asian title in front of almost 55,000 home fans in Saitama, north of Tokyo, following a 1-1 draw in last week's opening leg in Riyadh. "This is a scene I had only ever dream of before -- I can't believe it," said Urawa captain Hiroki Sakai. The Japanese side had to withstand fierce first-half pressure from Al Hilal, who were looking to win a record fifth continental title and a third in four seasons. The decisive moment came when Carrillo turned a header from Urawa's Marius Hoibraten into his own net amid strong wind in the 48th minute, before a determined rear-guard effort from the home side saw out the result and sent the crowd into delirious celebrations. "They put us under constant pressure right from the start and it was a difficult game," said Urawa striker Shinzo Koroki, who scored his team's goal in the first leg. "But in the second half we started to push them back and although we didn't have so many chances, we made it count when we did." The two teams were meeting in the final of Asia's premier club competition for the third time in six years. Urawa won in 2017 but Al Hilal came out on top two years later. Al Hilal were without injured captain Salman Al Faraj and suspended star winger Salem Al Dawsari, who was sent off late in the first leg for kicking out at Urawa's Ken Iwao. Al Hilal manager Ramon Diaz made three changes from the first leg, dropping Malian striker Moussa Marega and bringing in experienced Peruvian Carrillo, while Urawa were unchanged. ALSO READ | Babar Azam's record-smashing ton helps Pakistan win 4th ODI vs NZ, claim number 1 ranking for first time The Saudi side had an early chance when Odion Ighalo broke clear in the box, only for Urawa defender Alexander Scholz to block his shot on the line. Al Hilal's Michael also had a scent of goal midway through the first half, but Urawa goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa got down quickly to parry his shot. Urawa came even closer to opening the scoring against the run of play when Shinzo Koroki, who scored his team's goal in the first leg, hit the bar with a flying volley on the half-hour mark. Nishikawa again had to be alert to keep out a long-range Carrillo effort with the first half winding to a close, before Urawa's Yoshio Koizumi pulled a shot wide of the post at the other end. Urawa made the perfect start to the second half when a floated free-kick from around the half-way line found Hoibraten, whose wind-assisted header found its way over the line via Carrillo's boot. The Japanese side enjoyed far more possession from then on and Atsuki Ito almost added a second goal when he shot just wide of the post with the goalkeeper beaten. Al Hilal posed far less attacking threat in the second half and Nishikawa was on hand to deny Ighalo when the Saudi side did create a chance late in the game. The final was taking place more than a year after the Asian Champions League season began, with delays because of the winter World Cup in Qatar and travel complications arising from the Covid pandemic. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese side Urawa beat record champions Al Hilal to win Asian Champions League

Ajax Amsterdam are in danger of finishing outside the top two in the Dutch league for the first time in 13 seasons and missing out on the Champions League next season as they struggle to build a new team in the wake of record sales last year. The club have finished champions seven times and runners-up another five over the last 12 seasons, since ending third behind AZ Alkmaar and Twente Enschede in 2009.

However, after a 3-0 drubbing from PSV Eindhoven on Sunday, Ajax have dropped to third with four league matches left to play. It could get worse as their next league clash on May 6 is home to AZ, who are two points behind them in fourth place.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfers-barcelona-target-re-signing-chelsea-out-of-favour-aubameyang-as-lewandowski-competition-585748">Football Transfers: Barcelona target re-signing Chelsea 'out of favour' Aubameyang as Lewandowski competition</a>

Ajax, who meet PSV again this Sunday in the Dutch Cup final, have paid the price for their own success over the past three title winning seasons and their run to the Champions League semi-final in 2019, selling the bulk of their talent and losing coach Erik ten Hag to Manchester United. Now it is their arch rivals, Feyenoord who are on course to win the league, needing five points from their final four matches.

They have 73 points with PSV second on 65 and Ajax on 62, facing having to play in the Europa League next season after 13 successive season of competing in the Champions League.

POSITIVE BANK BALANCE

Ajax, who are four-time European champions, made an eye-watering 216.2-million euros in transfers in the close season, including almost 155-million alone from Manchester United for Brazilian Antony and defender Lisandro Martinez. But despite the positive bank balance, the club are in transition struggling to replace the departed talent.

Captain Dusan Tadic said on Sunday he had noticed a decline in the level at training daily and in matches weekly. "We won one top match all season," in a reference to this month’s Dutch Cup semi-final success at Feyenoord. "We need more quality in the squad."

They were beaten 6-1 at home by Napoli and 3-0 by Liverpool in the Champions League and in January fired coach Alfred Schreuder after only half a season in charge following a string of seven matches without a win.

John Heitinga stepped in as caretaker for the rest of the season. “It’s been a difficult season, we all realise that,” he said on Sunday.

“We have to be realistic, a lot of quality has gone and a completely new team had to take shape. That takes time. We have to take this year as it is, but look very critically at next season. It's a gap year, but we can't have too many gap years at Ajax.”

Ajax Amsterdam are in danger of finishing outside the top two in the Dutch league for the first time in 13 seasons and missing out on the Champions League next season as they struggle to build a new team in the wake of record sales last year.

Ajax Amsterdam are in danger of finishing outside the top two in the Dutch league for the first time in 13 seasons and missing out on the Champions League next season as they struggle to build a new team in the wake of record sales last year. The club have finished champions seven times and runners-up another five over the last 12 seasons, since ending third behind AZ Alkmaar and Twente Enschede in 2009. However, after a 3-0 drubbing from PSV Eindhoven on Sunday, Ajax have dropped to third with four league matches left to play. It could get worse as their next league clash on May 6 is home to AZ, who are two points behind them in fourth place. ALSO READ: Football Transfers: Barcelona target re-signing Chelsea 'out of favour' Aubameyang as Lewandowski competition Ajax, who meet PSV again this Sunday in the Dutch Cup final, have paid the price for their own success over the past three title winning seasons and their run to the Champions League semi-final in 2019, selling the bulk of their talent and losing coach Erik ten Hag to Manchester United. Now it is their arch rivals, Feyenoord who are on course to win the league, needing five points from their final four matches. They have 73 points with PSV second on 65 and Ajax on 62, facing having to play in the Europa League next season after 13 successive season of competing in the Champions League. POSITIVE BANK BALANCE Ajax, who are four-time European champions, made an eye-watering 216.2-million euros in transfers in the close season, including almost 155-million alone from Manchester United for Brazilian Antony and defender Lisandro Martinez. But despite the positive bank balance, the club are in transition struggling to replace the departed talent. Captain Dusan Tadic said on Sunday he had noticed a decline in the level at training daily and in matches weekly. "We won one top match all season," in a reference to this month’s Dutch Cup semi-final success at Feyenoord. "We need more quality in the squad." They were beaten 6-1 at home by Napoli and 3-0 by Liverpool in the Champions League and in January fired coach Alfred Schreuder after only half a season in charge following a string of seven matches without a win. John Heitinga stepped in as caretaker for the rest of the season. “It’s been a difficult season, we all realise that,” he said on Sunday. “We have to be realistic, a lot of quality has gone and a completely new team had to take shape. That takes time. We have to take this year as it is, but look very critically at next season. It's a gap year, but we can't have too many gap years at Ajax.”

Ajax on cusp of losing Champions League spot for first time in 13 seasons

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

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

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

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

Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals for the second straight season after Erling Haaland scored in a 1-1 draw which secured a 4-1 aggregate last-eight win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The Norwegian missed a first-half penalty but muscled his way up-field midway through the second half, lashing past Bayern goalkeeper Yann Sommer for his 48th goal in 41 appearances this season.

Bayern scored a late penalty through Joshua Kimmich but were again haunted by their inability to make possession and chances count.

City will play in the semis for the third straight year but face a rematch with manager Pep Guardiola's old foe Real, who scored two late goals to spectacularly turn the tie their way on the way to eventually winning the title last season.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-italian-federation-lifts-stadium-ban-on-juventus-for-romelu-lukaku-racial-abuse-584150">Football: Italian Federation lifts stadium ban on Juventus for Romelu Lukaku racial abuse</a>

"The semi-final again... the experience that we have in the competition, the players feel it a lot, they want to do really well," Guardiola told BT Sport.

Bayern sacked previous coach Julian Nagelsmann in favour of Thomas Tuchel earlier this month despite a perfect record in the Champions League this season but have since been eliminated from Europe and the German Cup.

"If we can't take positives from this match, we would have a problem," Tuchel, whose side are only two points clear of Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga title race, told DAZN. "At the moment, City are in the best shape, with the best players in the best league in the world."

Guardiola, so often criticised in the Champions League for tinkering with his side, named the same XI that won the first leg 3-0 in Manchester.

Tuchel made two changes, opting for the creativity of City loanee Joao Cancelo at full-back and bringing back Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, the only recognised striker in the squad.

- Bayern's fast start in vain -

Bayern, hoping to replicate previous miracle Champions League comebacks which started with an early goal, went on the attack from the outset. Bayern's other former City star, Leroy Sane, chipped just wide on 17 minutes when through one-on-one with goalkeeper Ederson.

The six-time European champions received a massive let-off just a minute later in one of City's first attacks thanks to a narrow offside call against Haaland.

Dayot Upamecano, widely criticised for a nervous first-leg performance, initially saw red for bringing down the Norwegian with the goal in sight, but the card was immediately rescinded.

An animated Tuchel received a yellow for exchanging words with the assistant referee while theatrically applauding the decision.

Bayern's lack of confidence and fluidity up front was obvious just minutes later, when Sane, clean through again, cut the ball back to an off-balance Leon Goretzka.

Upamecano was in the thick of it once more with 35 minutes gone, handballing in the box, bringing former Dortmund player Haaland to the spot in front of the home ultras.

The Norwegian, however, blasted over, only his third miss from 36 penalty attempts, and his first for City. Haaland made up for his error in the 57th minute when he burst away from Upamecano, who slipped, blasted the ball past Sommer and into the goal to cap off a quick City counter-attack.

Bayern had the ball in the net on 73 minutes but French teenager Mathys Tel's goal was ruled out for offside. With seven minutes left, Kimmich converted a consolation from the spot after a Manuel Akanji handball.

The winner of the City-Real tie will face either AC Milan or Inter Milan in the final in Istanbul on June 10.

For Bayern, the recriminations will begin on and off the field after City's dominant display, with a frustrated Tuchel sent to the stands for picking up a second yellow in the final minutes.

Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals for the second straight season after Erling Haaland scored in a 1-1 draw which secured a 4-1 aggregate last-eight win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday.

Manchester City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals for the second straight season after Erling Haaland scored in a 1-1 draw which secured a 4-1 aggregate last-eight win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The Norwegian missed a first-half penalty but muscled his way up-field midway through the second half, lashing past Bayern goalkeeper Yann Sommer for his 48th goal in 41 appearances this season. Bayern scored a late penalty through Joshua Kimmich but were again haunted by their inability to make possession and chances count. City will play in the semis for the third straight year but face a rematch with manager Pep Guardiola's old foe Real, who scored two late goals to spectacularly turn the tie their way on the way to eventually winning the title last season. ALSO READ: Football: Italian Federation lifts stadium ban on Juventus for Romelu Lukaku racial abuse "The semi-final again... the experience that we have in the competition, the players feel it a lot, they want to do really well," Guardiola told BT Sport. Bayern sacked previous coach Julian Nagelsmann in favour of Thomas Tuchel earlier this month despite a perfect record in the Champions League this season but have since been eliminated from Europe and the German Cup. "If we can't take positives from this match, we would have a problem," Tuchel, whose side are only two points clear of Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga title race, told DAZN. "At the moment, City are in the best shape, with the best players in the best league in the world." Guardiola, so often criticised in the Champions League for tinkering with his side, named the same XI that won the first leg 3-0 in Manchester. Tuchel made two changes, opting for the creativity of City loanee Joao Cancelo at full-back and bringing back Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, the only recognised striker in the squad. - Bayern's fast start in vain - Bayern, hoping to replicate previous miracle Champions League comebacks which started with an early goal, went on the attack from the outset. Bayern's other former City star, Leroy Sane, chipped just wide on 17 minutes when through one-on-one with goalkeeper Ederson. The six-time European champions received a massive let-off just a minute later in one of City's first attacks thanks to a narrow offside call against Haaland. Dayot Upamecano, widely criticised for a nervous first-leg performance, initially saw red for bringing down the Norwegian with the goal in sight, but the card was immediately rescinded. An animated Tuchel received a yellow for exchanging words with the assistant referee while theatrically applauding the decision. Bayern's lack of confidence and fluidity up front was obvious just minutes later, when Sane, clean through again, cut the ball back to an off-balance Leon Goretzka. Upamecano was in the thick of it once more with 35 minutes gone, handballing in the box, bringing former Dortmund player Haaland to the spot in front of the home ultras. The Norwegian, however, blasted over, only his third miss from 36 penalty attempts, and his first for City. Haaland made up for his error in the 57th minute when he burst away from Upamecano, who slipped, blasted the ball past Sommer and into the goal to cap off a quick City counter-attack. Bayern had the ball in the net on 73 minutes but French teenager Mathys Tel's goal was ruled out for offside. With seven minutes left, Kimmich converted a consolation from the spot after a Manuel Akanji handball. The winner of the City-Real tie will face either AC Milan or Inter Milan in the final in Istanbul on June 10. For Bayern, the recriminations will begin on and off the field after City's dominant display, with a frustrated Tuchel sent to the stands for picking up a second yellow in the final minutes.

Champions League: Manchester City beat Bayern Munich on aggregate, to face Real Madrid in semis

Bayern Munich will eye a monumental comeback in the Champions League quarterfinal as they take on English Champions Manchester City in the second leg on Wednesday, April 19. Having lost the first leg 0-3, Bayern will need to be at their fluent best to overcome tournament favourites City with the winner set to play Real Madrid in the semifinal. In the evening’s other tie, Italian giants Inter Milan will look to consolidate their 2-0 lead as they take on Benfica at home and will look to reach their first Champions League semifinal in 13 years.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Which player will we be talking about at full time? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/V9FsXSbuIQ">pic.twitter.com/V9FsXSbuIQ</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1648589749467197441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Can Bayern upset Man City?</h2>

The record German champions, in Thomas Tuchel’s first European game in charge, were put to the sword after they were blown away 3-0 in Manchester. While the clash comes early for Eric Chuppo-Motting, the German side has plenty of firepower in their ranks and could stage a big comeback into the contest. On the horizon, Pep Guardiola will try to get one better on his former side with his own firepower.

City have won only once at the Allianz Arena and will look to book another semifinal berth as Real Madrid await them yet again in the last four.

The home side will have a huge boost in the form of Sadio Mane as he returns to the squad having served his one-match club suspension. Mane was suspended for having an altercation with Leroy Sane during the first leg in Manchester. However, Bayern will still be without the likes of Manuel Neuer and Lucas Hernandez as they are out with long-term injuries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-bats-other-equipment-stolen-from-delhi-capitals-players-kits-583936">IPL 2023: SHOCKING! Bats, other equipment stolen from Delhi Capitals players' kits</a>

On the horizon, City will have a near-perfect squad as they still are in the FA Cup along with a tense Premier League (PL) title challenge on the hands as well. Phil Foden is expected to be on the bench while the likes of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne are also expected to be on the show after they were given early relief on the weekend against Leicester City.

<h2>Inter eye dream semifinal clash</h2>

In the night’s other clash, three-time champions Inter Milan will look for a dream date in the semifinal against arch-rivals AC Milan as they carry a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Inter’s domestic form has been dismal, but an unlikely run in the Champions League has given manager Simone Inzaghi a reprieve. A draw or even a loss by 0-1 could still see Inter make the last four and set up an all-Italian affair against AC Milan in the semifinal.

Bayern Munich possible starting lineup:

Sommer; Pavard, Upamecano, De Ligt, Davies; Kimmich, Goretzka; Sane, Musiala, Coman; Choupo-Moting

Manchester City possible starting lineup:

Ederson; Akanji, Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri; Silva, Gundogan, De Bruyne, Grealish; Haaland

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Bayern Munich will eye a monumental comeback in the Champions League quarterfinal as they take on English Champions Manchester City in the second leg on Wednesday, April 19.

Bayern Munich will eye a monumental comeback in the Champions League quarterfinal as they take on English Champions Manchester City in the second leg on Wednesday, April 19. Having lost the first leg 0-3, Bayern will need to be at their fluent best to overcome tournament favourites City with the winner set to play Real Madrid in the semifinal. In the evening’s other tie, Italian giants Inter Milan will look to consolidate their 2-0 lead as they take on Benfica at home and will look to reach their first Champions League semifinal in 13 years. Which player will we be talking about at full time? #UCL pic.twitter.com/V9FsXSbuIQ — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 19, 2023 × Can Bayern upset Man City? The record German champions, in Thomas Tuchel’s first European game in charge, were put to the sword after they were blown away 3-0 in Manchester. While the clash comes early for Eric Chuppo-Motting, the German side has plenty of firepower in their ranks and could stage a big comeback into the contest. On the horizon, Pep Guardiola will try to get one better on his former side with his own firepower. City have won only once at the Allianz Arena and will look to book another semifinal berth as Real Madrid await them yet again in the last four. The home side will have a huge boost in the form of Sadio Mane as he returns to the squad having served his one-match club suspension. Mane was suspended for having an altercation with Leroy Sane during the first leg in Manchester. However, Bayern will still be without the likes of Manuel Neuer and Lucas Hernandez as they are out with long-term injuries. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: SHOCKING! Bats, other equipment stolen from Delhi Capitals players' kits On the horizon, City will have a near-perfect squad as they still are in the FA Cup along with a tense Premier League (PL) title challenge on the hands as well. Phil Foden is expected to be on the bench while the likes of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne are also expected to be on the show after they were given early relief on the weekend against Leicester City. Inter eye dream semifinal clash In the night’s other clash, three-time champions Inter Milan will look for a dream date in the semifinal against arch-rivals AC Milan as they carry a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Inter’s domestic form has been dismal, but an unlikely run in the Champions League has given manager Simone Inzaghi a reprieve. A draw or even a loss by 0-1 could still see Inter make the last four and set up an all-Italian affair against AC Milan in the semifinal. Bayern Munich possible starting lineup: Sommer; Pavard, Upamecano, De Ligt, Davies; Kimmich, Goretzka; Sane, Musiala, Coman; Choupo-Moting Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ederson; Akanji, Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri; Silva, Gundogan, De Bruyne, Grealish; Haaland WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Bayern Munich face STERN Man City challenge for SF berth; Inter eye smooth passage in last 4

Frank Lampard’s Chelsea will look to overturn a 0-2 deposit against Real Madrid from the first leg as they try to make the semifinal of the Champions League. The second leg between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening where the home fans will be hoping for a remarkable comeback. The evening will also see AC Milan eye a last four berth as they look to consolidate their 1-0 lead from the first leg against Napoli.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The deciders! 🔥 
 
Who will be celebrating at full time?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/L3hXytz7oW">pic.twitter.com/L3hXytz7oW</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1648204715040165889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Historically, whenever Chelsea and Real have met in the knockout stage, the winner of the tie has gone on to win the competition. Real won the London leg in the 2022 quarterfinal while they lost the semifinal leg in 2021. A win for them will see them book a last four berth for the third consecutive season. The match will also see the return of Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge, having served as the Chelsea manager from 2009 to 2011.

In five competitive matches between the sides, both Real and Chelsea have won two matches each while they share a solitary draw from the first leg at Santiago Bernabeu in the 2021 semifinal.

Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante were not part of the squad to face Brighton with the second leg in mind, while recalls for Reece James, Joao Felix and Mateo Kovacic should also be in the squad for the Tuesday evening clash.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-rcbs-virat-kohli-fined-by-bcci-for-aggressive-behaviour-in-csk-tie-583544">IPL 2023: RCB's Virat Kohli fined by BCCI for 'aggressive behaviour' in CSK tie</a>

Vinicius Junior and Toni Kroos both missed the first leg with muscular overload alongside calf victim Ferland Mendy. While the latter is definitely out, both Kroos and Vinicius should be good to go after their precautionary absences.

In the evening’s other tie, Italian giants Napoli will look to come from behind at home against a resolute AC Milan. Napoli lost the first leg 0-1 while they were recently battered 0-4 by AC Milan in the Italian Serie A. A repeat of that performance will see the seven-time champions seal a last four place while a defeat by a two-goal margin will see Napoli go through and play the winner of Benfica and Inter Milan.

Chelsea's possible starting lineup:

Kepa; James, Fofana, Silva, Cucurella; Fernandez, Kante, Kovacic; Mudryk, Havertz, Felix

Real Madrid's possible starting lineup:

Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Camavinga; Modric, Valverde, Kroos; Rodrygo, Benzema, Vinicius Jr

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Frank Lampard’s Chelsea will look to overturn a 0-2 deposit against Real Madrid from the first leg as they try to make the semifinal of the Champions League. The second leg between Chelsea and Real Madrid will take place at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening where the home fans will be hoping for a remarkable comeback.

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

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

Bayern Munich duo Sadio Mane and Leroy Sane are in hot water after the record German Champions lost 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday, April 11. It is reported that there was a bust-up between the duo where Mane is reported to have punched Sane, which left the German star with bleeding lips. Other players then separated Mane and Sane while Thomas Tuchel was left to rue for his team’s debacle in his first European game in charge of Bayern Munich.

<h2>What exactly happened between Mane and Sane?</h2>

Sky Germany reported on Wednesday that Sane's lip was bleeding after the altercation and the two players needed to be separated by their fellow team-mates in the dressing room. The two players were also seen in an altercation during the match when Bayern conceded three goals. The uncomfortable situation between the players saw wild scenes in the dressing room where Mane ended up landing a punch on the former Manchester City star.

Upon arrival in Munich, the team management took care of the matters by arranging a cab for Mane while Sane took the team bus from the airport.

Bayern are yet to comment on the incident and it is thought that they will carry out an investigation into the matter behind closed doors.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-uniteds-marcus-rashford-ruled-out-of-crunch-first-leg-vs-sevilla-with-muscle-injury-581707">Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injury</a>City dominate Bayern

Erling Haaland scored his 45th goal of the season as Manchester City took a commanding 3-0 first leg lead over Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.

Rodri and Bernardo Silva were also on target for the English champions, who took a giant stride towards finally conquering Europe for the first time.

Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel got the better of Guardiola and City when Chelsea manager in the 2021 final.

But in 11 meetings between the two coaches, Guardiola has still only lost three times and got the better of his German counterpart in a heavyweight clash between two of the favourites to win the competition.

Guardiola has been regularly criticised for overly tinkering with his side when it comes to the crunch in the Champions League knockout stages.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Bayern Munich duo Sadio Mane and Leroy Sane are in hot water after the record German Champions lost 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday, April 11. It is reported that there was a bust-up between the duo where Mane is reported to have punched Sane, which left the German star with bleeding lips.

Bayern Munich duo Sadio Mane and Leroy Sane are in hot water after the record German Champions lost 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday, April 11. It is reported that there was a bust-up between the duo where Mane is reported to have punched Sane, which left the German star with bleeding lips. Other players then separated Mane and Sane while Thomas Tuchel was left to rue for his team’s debacle in his first European game in charge of Bayern Munich. What exactly happened between Mane and Sane? Sky Germany reported on Wednesday that Sane's lip was bleeding after the altercation and the two players needed to be separated by their fellow team-mates in the dressing room. The two players were also seen in an altercation during the match when Bayern conceded three goals. The uncomfortable situation between the players saw wild scenes in the dressing room where Mane ended up landing a punch on the former Manchester City star. Upon arrival in Munich, the team management took care of the matters by arranging a cab for Mane while Sane took the team bus from the airport. Bayern are yet to comment on the incident and it is thought that they will carry out an investigation into the matter behind closed doors. ALSO READ | Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injuryCity dominate Bayern Erling Haaland scored his 45th goal of the season as Manchester City took a commanding 3-0 first leg lead over Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday. Rodri and Bernardo Silva were also on target for the English champions, who took a giant stride towards finally conquering Europe for the first time. Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel got the better of Guardiola and City when Chelsea manager in the 2021 final. But in 11 meetings between the two coaches, Guardiola has still only lost three times and got the better of his German counterpart in a heavyweight clash between two of the favourites to win the competition. Guardiola has been regularly criticised for overly tinkering with his side when it comes to the crunch in the Champions League knockout stages. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Bayern Munich camp in chaos as Sadio Mane reported to punch Leroy Sane in bust-up

Bayern Munich have suspended forward Sadio Mane for one game following an altercation with Leroy Sane after this week's Champions League loss to Man City, the club announced Thursday. Newspaper Bild reported former City winger Sane was hit in the face by the Senegal attacker, suffering a cut lip after Tuesday's loss.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 Bayern have suspended Sadio Mané for the next game — he won’t be in the squad vs Hoffenheim and will also be fined. 
 
This happens due to his fight with Leroy Sané after City game when he punched Sané in his face in dressing room after having an argument during the match. <a href="https://t.co/HUTkr3rwQV">pic.twitter.com/HUTkr3rwQV</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1646511583055724551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Sadio Mane, 31, will not be in the FC Bayern squad for the home game against 1899 Hoffenheim next Saturday," Bayern said. "The reason is misconduct by Mane after FC Bayern's Champions League game at Manchester City.

"In addition, Mane will receive a fine," they added.

The one-match suspension means Mane will be available for manager Thomas Tuchel in Wednesday's return leg against Manchester City in Munich.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-munich-camp-in-chaos-as-sadio-mane-reported-to-punch-leroy-sane-in-bust-up-581951">Champions League: Bayern Munich camp in chaos as Sadio Mane reported to punch Leroy Sane in bust-up</a>

Bild reported the clash started in the dying stages of Bayern's loss in Manchester, with footage showing the two arguing on the pitch.&nbsp;

Mane has endured a frustrating time since joining the German champions from Liverpool in the summer of 2022. Signed as a replacement for the departing Robert Lewandowski, the Champions League winner has scored 11 times in 32 matches for Bayern. The two-time African Player of the Year scored six goals in his first seven matches in all competitions for Bayern, but has not scored since October.&nbsp;

Mane has also had six goals ruled out for offside so far this season for Bayern, a Bundesliga record.

Mane suffered a leg injury while playing for Bayern against Werder Bremen in November which kept him out of Senegal's Qatar World Cup campaign and he missed nine club matches.

After Bayern's German Cup exit at the hands of Freiburg in early April, a smiling Mane told reporters "soon, I promise you" after he was asked when he would return to the spectacular form he displayed with Liverpool.&nbsp;

Mane was given his first start under Tuchel, who replaced the sacked Julian Nagelsmann last month, in Saturday's 1-0 league win at Freiburg, missing several chances to score.

Before the incident, Bayern chief executive Oliver Kahn acknowledged Mane's struggles, putting it down to the former Southampton striker having "a lot of competition" for starting spots.

"He doesn't know that (from Liverpool) and is perhaps not used to it."

"He's still looking for himself."

Bayern declined media requests to comment on the altercation.&nbsp;

Mane and Sane were seen on the training pitch early on Thursday, hours before the suspension was announced.

The loss was Bayern's biggest Champions League defeat since 2017 and one of the club's most devastating defeats in Champions League history.

Despite Mane being available, the six-time European champions now have little hope of turning over the deficit in next Wednesday's return leg in Munich to make it to the semi-finals.

Bayern Munich have suspended forward Sadio Mane for one game following an altercation with Leroy Sane after this week's Champions League loss to Man City, the club announced Thursday.

Bayern Munich have suspended forward Sadio Mane for one game following an altercation with Leroy Sane after this week's Champions League loss to Man City, the club announced Thursday. Newspaper Bild reported former City winger Sane was hit in the face by the Senegal attacker, suffering a cut lip after Tuesday's loss. 🚨 Bayern have suspended Sadio Mané for the next game — he won’t be in the squad vs Hoffenheim and will also be fined. This happens due to his fight with Leroy Sané after City game when he punched Sané in his face in dressing room after having an argument during the match. pic.twitter.com/HUTkr3rwQV — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 13, 2023 × "Sadio Mane, 31, will not be in the FC Bayern squad for the home game against 1899 Hoffenheim next Saturday," Bayern said. "The reason is misconduct by Mane after FC Bayern's Champions League game at Manchester City. "In addition, Mane will receive a fine," they added. The one-match suspension means Mane will be available for manager Thomas Tuchel in Wednesday's return leg against Manchester City in Munich. ALSO READ: Champions League: Bayern Munich camp in chaos as Sadio Mane reported to punch Leroy Sane in bust-up Bild reported the clash started in the dying stages of Bayern's loss in Manchester, with footage showing the two arguing on the pitch. Mane has endured a frustrating time since joining the German champions from Liverpool in the summer of 2022. Signed as a replacement for the departing Robert Lewandowski, the Champions League winner has scored 11 times in 32 matches for Bayern. The two-time African Player of the Year scored six goals in his first seven matches in all competitions for Bayern, but has not scored since October. Mane has also had six goals ruled out for offside so far this season for Bayern, a Bundesliga record. Mane suffered a leg injury while playing for Bayern against Werder Bremen in November which kept him out of Senegal's Qatar World Cup campaign and he missed nine club matches. After Bayern's German Cup exit at the hands of Freiburg in early April, a smiling Mane told reporters "soon, I promise you" after he was asked when he would return to the spectacular form he displayed with Liverpool. Mane was given his first start under Tuchel, who replaced the sacked Julian Nagelsmann last month, in Saturday's 1-0 league win at Freiburg, missing several chances to score. Before the incident, Bayern chief executive Oliver Kahn acknowledged Mane's struggles, putting it down to the former Southampton striker having "a lot of competition" for starting spots. "He doesn't know that (from Liverpool) and is perhaps not used to it." "He's still looking for himself." Bayern declined media requests to comment on the altercation. Mane and Sane were seen on the training pitch early on Thursday, hours before the suspension was announced. The loss was Bayern's biggest Champions League defeat since 2017 and one of the club's most devastating defeats in Champions League history. Despite Mane being available, the six-time European champions now have little hope of turning over the deficit in next Wednesday's return leg in Munich to make it to the semi-finals.

Bayern Munich suspend Sadio Mane for one match for punching teammate Leroy Sane following UCL loss

Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio struck for Real Madrid as they dominated 10-man Chelsea and opened up a 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg lead on Wednesday.

The record 14-time winners and reigning champions eased to a comfortable win against Frank Lampard's side, who had Ben Chilwell sent off in the second half for pulling down Rodrygo Goes as he ran through on goal.

Benzema netted from close range after 21 minutes after Kepa Arrizabalaga tipped a Vinicius Junior effort into his path.

Despite controlling the game, Madrid had to wait until the 74th minute for their second, with Asensio drilling home from the edge of the box after a short corner routine.

In a battle between the last two Champions League winners, Madrid demonstrated their strength with an impressive display, while Chelsea showed why they are struggling in 11th in the Premier League.

"We are satisfied with the result, for the performance but it's not over yet, we have to fight, to sacrifice for another 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge," said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"We are satisfied only for tonight, it's not over yet. We know Chelsea will try to (give) everything next week."

Ancelotti, who coached Lampard at Chelsea between 2009-2011, relied on veteran midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to pull the strings.

Lampard, in his second game at the helm since replacing Graham Potter last week, threw Thiago Silva and N'Golo Kante straight into the starting line-up after injury worries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-manchester-uniteds-marcus-rashford-ruled-out-of-crunch-first-leg-vs-sevilla-with-muscle-injury-581707">Europa League: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford ruled out of crunch first leg vs Sevilla with muscle injury</a>

<h2>AC Milan take first leg advantage</h2>

Stefano Pioli said that AC Milan should have given themselves more than a one-goal lead in their Champions League quarter-final derby with Napoli after their fellow Italians finished the first leg with 10 men.

Milan had a quarter of an hour to extend their advantage earned from Ismael Bennacer's first-half strike when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa was sent off for two quick-fire bookings.

"It's the only regret we have, we should have been more clear-headed," Pioli told reporters.

"It's a shame but they gave a lot. It's a good result after a good performance, let's hope for the next one."

Milan now have to defend a slim lead at the Stadio Maradona in Naples, with the prospect of a semi-final clash with local rivals Inter after they handily won at Benfica on Tuesday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio struck for Real Madrid as they dominated 10-man Chelsea and opened up a 2-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg lead on Wednesday.

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

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

Frank Lampard will make his second European debut as manager for Chelsea in a crunch Champions League quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, April 12 as they take on Real Madrid. Champions from the previous two editions, both Real and Chelsea will meet for the third consecutive season in the knockout stage, with the winner going on to win the Champions League. In the other European tie of the night, AC Milan host Napoli at the San Siro.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🍿🍿🍿<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/2vs9Xkkleb">pic.twitter.com/2vs9Xkkleb</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1646030390367322112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Lampard faces tough challenge</h2>

Frank Lampard will have the improbable job of repeating the heroics of 2012 and 2021 and leading the West London outfit to glory. Chelsea, champions of Europe in 2012 and 2021 sacked their managers in the second half of the campaign and will look to replicate those success stories. In the opposition camp, Carlo Ancelotti will be looking to add an unprecedented fifth Champions League title to his trophy cabinet as manager.

Ancelotti managed Chelsea from 2009 to 2011 before being shown the exit doors at the London side. The clash on Wednesday will be the fifth time Chelsea and Real go head-to-head, with only one win for the home side. Last season, Chelsea won the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu but eventually lost the tie in extra time.

Real will be without Ferland Mendy while the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Eder Militao and Eduardo Camavinga were rested for the La Liga clash against Villareal. With the domestic league almost out of grabs, the Champions League will be Real’s main target at the end of the season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-even-play-ravi-shastri-blasts-csk-pacer-says-he-has-become-permanent-nca-resident-581591">'You can't even play...': Ravi Shastri BLASTS CSK pacer, says he has become 'permanent NCA resident'</a>

Armando Broja (knee) and Cesar Azpilicueta are out for Chelsea while they will welcome back Mason Mount to the team, having served a suspension in the second leg against Borussia Dortmund.

In the second clash of the night, Napoli will travel to AC Milan in an all-Italian affair. Recently Napoli were thrashed 4-0 by Milan and will look to avoid a repeat of the same scoreline.

Real Madrid possible starting lineup:

Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Alaba; Modric, Camavinga, Kroos; Valverde, Benzema, Vinicius Jr

Chelsea possible starting lineup:

Kepa; James, Fofana, Koulibaly, Chilwell; Kovacic, Fernandez, Kante; Sterling, Havertz, Felix

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Frank Lampard will make his second European debut as manager for Chelsea in a crunch Champions League quarterfinal clash on Wednesday, April 12 as they take on Real Madrid.

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

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

European football in recent times has been dominated by English Premier League clubs along with Spanish sides, which have seen the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and others flourish. Since 2018, only once has the Champions League final not seen an English club make the final. While Liverpool have been the epicenter, English clubs have yet again taken the baton to dominate Europe as they did at the start of the millennium. And what makes them so competitive that they are becoming the top dogs in Europe?

It is fair to say that, Real Madrid and Spain have gained the upper hand in the last decade, but on the contrary, English clubs are on the rise&nbsp;on the rise yet again. Since 2018, there have been five Champions League finals, which have seen English clubs take the podium on six occasions out of the 10. While Real Madrid had other ideas in the semifinal of the 2022 Champions League, the European stage has already seen two all-English Champions League finals in 2019 and 2021.

In 2019, English football reached its pinnacle, when the Champions League final and Europa League final were contested by English clubs. Chelsea beat Arsenal in the final of the Europa League while Liverpool won both the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup.

<h2>Level of league football</h2>

The level of league football in England has been at its peak as the so-called ‘Big Six’ has been dominating the frame. All the big six English have been well balanced on the financial sheets and have top-class training facilities. The level of football in the league in recent times has seen relegation-threatened sides beat English champions.

The level of football at the root level has helped the clubs keep their competitive nature and has helped them on the European front.

<h2>Competitiveness at domestic level</h2>

At the domestic level, competitions like FA Cup and EFL Cup have given clubs no rest despite the amount of football being played. The fatigue of players plays a key role, players have been given good competition while playing against a second-tier side. In the 2021-22 season, Liverpool played in 63 matches, the highest possible number in an English club’s season.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp underlined the fact that his team faces competition in every match they play; the domestic competitiveness has led them to reach big heights in recent seasons.

<h2>Experienced clubs with heritage in Europe</h2>

English clubs have often taken European competition seriously and that has seen them reach new heights. Eight English clubs have reached the semifinals of different European competitions in the last five seasons, this includes West Ham United’s run to the Europa League and Leicester City’s run in the Conference League in 2022.

Clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have a rich history and heritage in the competition that has seen them dominate the front row of European football. Spurs and Manchester City have also stepped into the field on great terms as the former reached the Champions League final in 2019 while City lost to Chelsea in the 2021 edition. Manchester United were unfortunate to have lost the 2021 Europa League final on penalties, but have a long and rich history in Europe that saw them lift the silverware in 2016 and the Champions League in 2008.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-truth-behind-csk-bowler-tushar-deshpandes-rohit-sharmas-wicket-is-easy-remark-581275">FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark</a>

<h2>Top-class players and managers</h2>

Over the years, players in the Premier League have been destined to succeed and have shown their potential big-time. Cristiano Ronaldo led Manchester United to the cusp of glory in 2008 while Didier Drogba has the same pedigree at Chelsea. Players like Mohammed Salah, Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne have now taken the baton as the modern-day greats from the Premier League.

One of the most important reasons for the success of English clubs is the tactical switches from the managers. While Jose Mourinho has been the master of the game, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel revolutionised the English game with their semi-attacking style of football. While Guardiola is yet to find the missing piece in the puzzle, it only looks like a matter of time before he gets his hand on the coveted trophy.

Other managers like Antonio Conte, Mauricio Pochettino and Maurizio Sarri have also taken English football to a different level with their managerial tactics.

<h2>Comparison with Spanish clubs</h2>

Recently the likes of Real Madrid, Villareal, Sevilla, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have won different European competitions. However, with only one domestic competition apart from the league, players in Spanish leagues get good rest. Also, there is a winter break in La Liga which makes it a safer environment for the players and managers to switch their tactics.

However, English clubs are once again reaching the pinnacle of the game and with the presence of the winter break in the coming season, Premier League clubs are only expected to reach new heights. Even to a lesser extent, clubs like West Ham and Leicester flirting with relegation could also end up winning European competition as they have good infrastructure compared to other leagues across Europe.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

European football in recent times has been dominated by English Premier League clubs along with Spanish sides, which have seen the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and others flourish.

European football in recent times has been dominated by English Premier League clubs along with Spanish sides, which have seen the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and others flourish. Since 2018, only once has the Champions League final not seen an English club make the final. While Liverpool have been the epicenter, English clubs have yet again taken the baton to dominate Europe as they did at the start of the millennium. And what makes them so competitive that they are becoming the top dogs in Europe? It is fair to say that, Real Madrid and Spain have gained the upper hand in the last decade, but on the contrary, English clubs are on the rise on the rise yet again. Since 2018, there have been five Champions League finals, which have seen English clubs take the podium on six occasions out of the 10. While Real Madrid had other ideas in the semifinal of the 2022 Champions League, the European stage has already seen two all-English Champions League finals in 2019 and 2021. In 2019, English football reached its pinnacle, when the Champions League final and Europa League final were contested by English clubs. Chelsea beat Arsenal in the final of the Europa League while Liverpool won both the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup. Level of league football The level of league football in England has been at its peak as the so-called ‘Big Six’ has been dominating the frame. All the big six English have been well balanced on the financial sheets and have top-class training facilities. The level of football in the league in recent times has seen relegation-threatened sides beat English champions. The level of football at the root level has helped the clubs keep their competitive nature and has helped them on the European front. Competitiveness at domestic level At the domestic level, competitions like FA Cup and EFL Cup have given clubs no rest despite the amount of football being played. The fatigue of players plays a key role, players have been given good competition while playing against a second-tier side. In the 2021-22 season, Liverpool played in 63 matches, the highest possible number in an English club’s season. Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp underlined the fact that his team faces competition in every match they play; the domestic competitiveness has led them to reach big heights in recent seasons. Experienced clubs with heritage in Europe English clubs have often taken European competition seriously and that has seen them reach new heights. Eight English clubs have reached the semifinals of different European competitions in the last five seasons, this includes West Ham United’s run to the Europa League and Leicester City’s run in the Conference League in 2022. Clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have a rich history and heritage in the competition that has seen them dominate the front row of European football. Spurs and Manchester City have also stepped into the field on great terms as the former reached the Champions League final in 2019 while City lost to Chelsea in the 2021 edition. Manchester United were unfortunate to have lost the 2021 Europa League final on penalties, but have a long and rich history in Europe that saw them lift the silverware in 2016 and the Champions League in 2008. ALSO READ | FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark Top-class players and managers Over the years, players in the Premier League have been destined to succeed and have shown their potential big-time. Cristiano Ronaldo led Manchester United to the cusp of glory in 2008 while Didier Drogba has the same pedigree at Chelsea. Players like Mohammed Salah, Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne have now taken the baton as the modern-day greats from the Premier League. One of the most important reasons for the success of English clubs is the tactical switches from the managers. While Jose Mourinho has been the master of the game, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel revolutionised the English game with their semi-attacking style of football. While Guardiola is yet to find the missing piece in the puzzle, it only looks like a matter of time before he gets his hand on the coveted trophy. Other managers like Antonio Conte, Mauricio Pochettino and Maurizio Sarri have also taken English football to a different level with their managerial tactics. Comparison with Spanish clubs Recently the likes of Real Madrid, Villareal, Sevilla, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona have won different European competitions. However, with only one domestic competition apart from the league, players in Spanish leagues get good rest. Also, there is a winter break in La Liga which makes it a safer environment for the players and managers to switch their tactics. However, English clubs are once again reaching the pinnacle of the game and with the presence of the winter break in the coming season, Premier League clubs are only expected to reach new heights. Even to a lesser extent, clubs like West Ham and Leicester flirting with relegation could also end up winning European competition as they have good infrastructure compared to other leagues across Europe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Why English Premier League clubs are dominating European football once again

Thomas Tuchel will face a stern challenge in his first Champions League (CL) match in charge as Bayern Munich take on tournament favourites Manchester City. Sacked as Chelsea coach in September 2022, Tuchel and Pep Guardiola will reignite their rivalry at the European stage, having last met in the competition in the final of the 2021 edition, with Chelsea winning the Champions League. In the other tie of the night, former champions Benfica take on Inter Milan in Lisbon.

<h2>Pep and Tuchel re-ignite rivalry</h2>

Guardiola will be eyeing a piece of revenge on his opposite number while he also faces his former side when City and Bayern meet at the Etihad Stadium. The two sides will meet for the seventh time in the history of the competition, with Guardiola part of the roster in four of those meetings for either side. Both City and Bayern have won three matches each with Bayern’s last win on the Blue side of Manchester coming in September 2013.

Domestically both City and Bayern have been facing a tough title challenge as Arsenal lead the table in Premier League, while Borussia Dortmund are only two points behind the record German champions in the Bundesliga. While much will be decided in the second league, the contest will also see Joao Cancelo make his return to the Etihad having left on loan in the January transfer window.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-truth-behind-csk-bowler-tushar-deshpandes-rohit-sharmas-wicket-is-easy-remark-581275">FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark</a>

In the other contest of the night, two-time champions Benfica will take on Inter Milan Lisbon. Both sides will have a golden opportunity to make the final four of the competition, having gone without glory for a long time. Not since 1962 have Benfica tasted glory in the competition while Inter’s success also came in the same period. Inter last won the competition in 2010 under José Mourinho and will have the golden opportunity to bring back the glory days.

Manchester City possible starting lineup:

Ederson; Akanji, Ruben Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri, Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne, Gundogan, Grealish; Haaland

Bayern Munich possible starting lineup:

Sommer; Pavard, De Ligt, Upamecano, Davies; Goretzka, Kimmich, Sane, Musiala, Coman; Muller

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Thomas Tuchel will face a stern challenge in his first Champions League (CL) match in charge as Bayern Munich take on tournament favourites Manchester City. Sacked as Chelsea coach in September 2022, Tuchel and Pep Guardiola will reignite their rivalry at the European stage, having last met in the competition in the final of the 2021 edition, with Chelsea winning the Champions League.

Thomas Tuchel will face a stern challenge in his first Champions League (CL) match in charge as Bayern Munich take on tournament favourites Manchester City. Sacked as Chelsea coach in September 2022, Tuchel and Pep Guardiola will reignite their rivalry at the European stage, having last met in the competition in the final of the 2021 edition, with Chelsea winning the Champions League. In the other tie of the night, former champions Benfica take on Inter Milan in Lisbon. Pep and Tuchel re-ignite rivalry Guardiola will be eyeing a piece of revenge on his opposite number while he also faces his former side when City and Bayern meet at the Etihad Stadium. The two sides will meet for the seventh time in the history of the competition, with Guardiola part of the roster in four of those meetings for either side. Both City and Bayern have won three matches each with Bayern’s last win on the Blue side of Manchester coming in September 2013. Domestically both City and Bayern have been facing a tough title challenge as Arsenal lead the table in Premier League, while Borussia Dortmund are only two points behind the record German champions in the Bundesliga. While much will be decided in the second league, the contest will also see Joao Cancelo make his return to the Etihad having left on loan in the January transfer window. ALSO READ | FACT-CHECK: Truth behind CSK bowler Tushar Deshpande's 'Rohit Sharma's wicket is easy' remark In the other contest of the night, two-time champions Benfica will take on Inter Milan Lisbon. Both sides will have a golden opportunity to make the final four of the competition, having gone without glory for a long time. Not since 1962 have Benfica tasted glory in the competition while Inter’s success also came in the same period. Inter last won the competition in 2010 under José Mourinho and will have the golden opportunity to bring back the glory days. Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ederson; Akanji, Ruben Dias, Ake; Stones, Rodri, Bernardo Silva, De Bruyne, Gundogan, Grealish; Haaland Bayern Munich possible starting lineup: Sommer; Pavard, De Ligt, Upamecano, Davies; Goretzka, Kimmich, Sane, Musiala, Coman; Muller WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Thomas Tuchel faces stern Man City challenge in first European contest; Benfica host Inter

Manchester City are desperate to win their first Champions League but desire alone will not be enough to claim success in Europe's top competition, manager Pep Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's quarter-final first leg against Bayern Munich. Guardiola has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and four League Cups at City but European success has eluded the manager who won the trophy twice as Barcelona manager.

Under the Spanish manager, City have reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League for six straight seasons, with the English club's best finish being runners-up in 2021.

When asked how much he wanted to win the Champions League title with City, Guardiola on Monday told reporters, "a lot".

"We want to try. It is an honour to be here against an elite club in Bayern Munich. We will not take it for granted. We have to play two games. Starting tomorrow," he added. "The question has been coming every single season. We try every single season. Teams you face are also good too and want to win too. My dream is to live it again. We want to try but that doesn't mean we are going to win.

"Michael Jordan won six NBA titles, how many years did he play? 16."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-world-number-four-daniil-medvedev-says-balance-key-as-he-adapts-game-for-clay-580975">Tennis: World number four Daniil Medvedev says balance key as he adapts game for clay</a>

Defender Ruben Dias echoed his manager's sentiments, saying the tournament was "special" for City.

"We really want to be in it and to see it through. It will be a difficult match, but it is what the competition is all about, beating the best," Dias told reporters. "We are happy to be here. Every season the work you have to do is to stay in competitions - the Premier League, the Champions League, all the cups - the biggest goal is to stay in competitions as long as you can."

On Tuesday, Guardiola and City will come up against Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel in the Champions League for the first time since the German manager's Chelsea team beat them in the 2021 final.

"(The 2021 final) was a tight game but we forget it and we try again," Guardiola said. "Sometimes you win when you deserve to, sometimes you lose. I don't live in the past. It's part of the game."

Tuchel took charge of Bayern last month, following the sacking of Julian Nagelsmann.

"I try to figure out the quality they have in all departments. It would have been difficult with Julian Nagelsmann and also will be difficult against Tuchel," Guardiola said. "I don't pay that much attention, more attention on what I do with my team.

"Tuchel is a creative manager. Good build up, good connections between players with good runners who attack the spaces."

Manchester City are desperate to win their first Champions League but desire alone will not be enough to claim success in Europe's top competition, manager Pep Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's quarter-final first leg against Bayern Munich.

Manchester City are desperate to win their first Champions League but desire alone will not be enough to claim success in Europe's top competition, manager Pep Guardiola said ahead of Tuesday's quarter-final first leg against Bayern Munich. Guardiola has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and four League Cups at City but European success has eluded the manager who won the trophy twice as Barcelona manager. Under the Spanish manager, City have reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League for six straight seasons, with the English club's best finish being runners-up in 2021. When asked how much he wanted to win the Champions League title with City, Guardiola on Monday told reporters, "a lot". "We want to try. It is an honour to be here against an elite club in Bayern Munich. We will not take it for granted. We have to play two games. Starting tomorrow," he added. "The question has been coming every single season. We try every single season. Teams you face are also good too and want to win too. My dream is to live it again. We want to try but that doesn't mean we are going to win. "Michael Jordan won six NBA titles, how many years did he play? 16." ALSO READ: Tennis: World number four Daniil Medvedev says balance key as he adapts game for clay Defender Ruben Dias echoed his manager's sentiments, saying the tournament was "special" for City. "We really want to be in it and to see it through. It will be a difficult match, but it is what the competition is all about, beating the best," Dias told reporters. "We are happy to be here. Every season the work you have to do is to stay in competitions - the Premier League, the Champions League, all the cups - the biggest goal is to stay in competitions as long as you can." On Tuesday, Guardiola and City will come up against Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel in the Champions League for the first time since the German manager's Chelsea team beat them in the 2021 final. "(The 2021 final) was a tight game but we forget it and we try again," Guardiola said. "Sometimes you win when you deserve to, sometimes you lose. I don't live in the past. It's part of the game." Tuchel took charge of Bayern last month, following the sacking of Julian Nagelsmann. "I try to figure out the quality they have in all departments. It would have been difficult with Julian Nagelsmann and also will be difficult against Tuchel," Guardiola said. "I don't pay that much attention, more attention on what I do with my team. "Tuchel is a creative manager. Good build up, good connections between players with good runners who attack the spaces."

Champions League: 'We really want to win it,' - Manchester City's Pep Guardiola on clash against Bayern Munich

Lionel Messi is "much more likely" to leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season than sign a new deal, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday.

"The dynamics have completely changed with PSG less pushing to renew (his contract)," the source said, adding that there was "no deal, no exit yet. But exit is much more likely."

World Cup winner Messi, who will turn 36 in June, joined in 2021 on a two-year deal which expires at the end of this campaign. On Sunday, the Argentine's name was jeered by some PSG fans as the teams were announced prior to the 1-0 home defeat against Lyon. Supporters of the Qatar-owned club are unhappy at the malaise around the team since they were eliminated from the Champions League in the last 16 by Bayern Munich last month.

"The fans have changed things completely," the source said of the chances of Messi's deal being renewed.

AL SO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-come-and-bowl-ms-dhoni-has-asked-you-to-return-s-sreesanth-reveals-untold-tale-from-cwc11-final-578927">Just come and bowl, MS Dhoni has asked you to return: S Sreesanth reveals untold tale from CWC'11 final</a>

Messi has scored 29 goals and set up 32 more in 67 appearances for PSG in all competitions. Barcelona have been openly courting Messi, hoping to persuade the Argentine to return to the Camp Nou two years after he left the club where he won four Champions League titles, when it could not afford to renew his contract.

"I would love it if he returned," Barca vice-president Rafael Yuste said last week as he admitted there had been "contact" with Messi.

He has also been linked with a possible move to Major League Soccer where Inter Miami are said to be interested in signing him.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Lionel Messi is "much more likely" to leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season than sign a new deal, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday. "The dynamics have completely changed with PSG less pushing to renew (his contract)," the source said, adding that there was "no deal, no exit yet.

Lionel Messi is "much more likely" to leave Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season than sign a new deal, a source close to the club told AFP on Tuesday. "The dynamics have completely changed with PSG less pushing to renew (his contract)," the source said, adding that there was "no deal, no exit yet. But exit is much more likely." World Cup winner Messi, who will turn 36 in June, joined in 2021 on a two-year deal which expires at the end of this campaign. On Sunday, the Argentine's name was jeered by some PSG fans as the teams were announced prior to the 1-0 home defeat against Lyon. Supporters of the Qatar-owned club are unhappy at the malaise around the team since they were eliminated from the Champions League in the last 16 by Bayern Munich last month. "The fans have changed things completely," the source said of the chances of Messi's deal being renewed. AL SO READ | Just come and bowl, MS Dhoni has asked you to return: S Sreesanth reveals untold tale from CWC'11 final Messi has scored 29 goals and set up 32 more in 67 appearances for PSG in all competitions. Barcelona have been openly courting Messi, hoping to persuade the Argentine to return to the Camp Nou two years after he left the club where he won four Champions League titles, when it could not afford to renew his contract. "I would love it if he returned," Barca vice-president Rafael Yuste said last week as he admitted there had been "contact" with Messi. He has also been linked with a possible move to Major League Soccer where Inter Miami are said to be interested in signing him. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Lionel Messi transfer: Argentine star likely to leave PSG at end of season, Barcelona remain keen

Chelsea have sacked manager Graham Potter, the London club said on Sunday after a string of poor results left the expensively-assembled team 11th in the Premier League. Potter had been signed by Chelsea's new ownership in September after they prised him away from Brighton &amp; Hove Albion but the Englishman lasted 31 games, winning only 12, before the owners pulled the trigger.

While Potter oversaw wins in the Champions League where they topped their group after beating AC Milan twice and knocked out Borussia Dortmund, their league form nosedived as they fell out of the top four and into the bottom half of the table.

His last game in charge was Chelsea's 2-0 loss at home to Aston Villa on Saturday which led to boos and jeers from the fans at Stamford Bridge as the result left them 12 points off the top four and in danger of missing out on Europe next season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-newcastle-stun-manchester-united-west-ham-move-up-from-bottom-three-578378">Premier League: Newcastle stun Manchester United, West Ham move up from bottom three</a>

"Graham has agreed to collaborate with the club to facilitate a smooth transition," Chelsea said in a statement. "In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future. Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as interim head coach."

Saltor's first game in charge is on Tuesday at home to eighth-placed Liverpool, who sit four points above them.

"Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season," co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said. "We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter-final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high."

Potter is the 12th manager to be sacked in the Premier League this season with the announcement coming hours after relegation-threatened Leicester City parted ways with Brendan Rodgers by mutual agreement.

The departures of Rodgers and Potter set a new Premier League record for most dismissals in a season, beating the 10 that happened in four other seasons, most recently in 2017-18.

Potter was a surprise choice to replace Thomas Tuchel who was sacked by the club in September after a poor start to the season. He initially impressed as Chelsea went nine games unbeaten before a 4-1 hammering at Brighton on Oct. 30.

Since then, it has been a struggle for Potter who failed to get the best out of a squad that had been heavily reinforced over two transfer windows in which owners Boehly and Clearlake Capital splashed more than 600 million euros ($650.76 million) on new players.

Chelsea have sacked manager Graham Potter, the London club said on Sunday after a string of poor results left the expensively-assembled team 11th in the Premier League.

Chelsea have sacked manager Graham Potter, the London club said on Sunday after a string of poor results left the expensively-assembled team 11th in the Premier League. Potter had been signed by Chelsea's new ownership in September after they prised him away from Brighton & Hove Albion but the Englishman lasted 31 games, winning only 12, before the owners pulled the trigger. While Potter oversaw wins in the Champions League where they topped their group after beating AC Milan twice and knocked out Borussia Dortmund, their league form nosedived as they fell out of the top four and into the bottom half of the table. His last game in charge was Chelsea's 2-0 loss at home to Aston Villa on Saturday which led to boos and jeers from the fans at Stamford Bridge as the result left them 12 points off the top four and in danger of missing out on Europe next season. ALSO READ: Premier League: Newcastle stun Manchester United, West Ham move up from bottom three "Graham has agreed to collaborate with the club to facilitate a smooth transition," Chelsea said in a statement. "In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid. Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future. Bruno Saltor will take charge of the team as interim head coach." Saltor's first game in charge is on Tuesday at home to eighth-placed Liverpool, who sit four points above them. "Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season," co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said. "We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter-final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high." Potter is the 12th manager to be sacked in the Premier League this season with the announcement coming hours after relegation-threatened Leicester City parted ways with Brendan Rodgers by mutual agreement. The departures of Rodgers and Potter set a new Premier League record for most dismissals in a season, beating the 10 that happened in four other seasons, most recently in 2017-18. Potter was a surprise choice to replace Thomas Tuchel who was sacked by the club in September after a poor start to the season. He initially impressed as Chelsea went nine games unbeaten before a 4-1 hammering at Brighton on Oct. 30. Since then, it has been a struggle for Potter who failed to get the best out of a squad that had been heavily reinforced over two transfer windows in which owners Boehly and Clearlake Capital splashed more than 600 million euros ($650.76 million) on new players.

Chelsea sack manager Graham Potter following latest slump against Villa, Bruno Saltor to be interim head coach

The draws for the Champions League quarterfinals have been made as defending champions Real Madrid will once again meet English giants Chelsea while Pep Guardiola will return to Bayern Munich after Manchester City were drawn against the German powerhouse. While all four teams have been placed on the same side of the draw in the semifinal, meaning only one of the above-mentioned teams will make it to the final in Istanbul in June.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇪🇸 Real Madrid vs Chelsea 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 
🇵🇹 Benfica vs Inter 🇮🇹 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Man City vs Bayern 🇩🇪 
🇮🇹 Milan vs Napoli 🇮🇹 
 
*FC Internazionale Milano's match has been reversed in accordance with the principles set by the Club Competitions Committee. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/m1gMqFs1fV">pic.twitter.com/m1gMqFs1fV</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1636691900185845760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h3>Champions League Draw in full</h3>

Real Madrid or Chelsea v Man City or Bayern Munich

Milan or Napoli v Inter or Benfica

<h3>Real Madrid to set for another England visit</h3>

For an astonishing fifth consecutive knockout tie, Real Madrid have drawn English opponents as they face Chelsea in the repeat of last season’s quarterfinal. Real beat Liverpool 6-2 over the two legs while Graham Potter’s side beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 to advance to the later stage of the competition. Real could yet face another visit to England if Bayern Munich lose to Manchester City in the other quarterfinal draw.

Manchester City will travel to Germany yet again as they face Pep’s former side Bayern in another mouth-watering clash. Bayern got the better of Paris Saint-Germain while City beat German high-flyers RB Leipzig with the second leg ending 7-0 in favour of the Premier League side.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-underlines-the-reason-why-odis-are-getting-monotonous-and-boring-comes-up-with-a-solution-572946">Sachin Tendulkar underlines the reason why ODIs are getting monotonous and boring, comes up with a solution</a></h3>

<h3>Napoli favourite to make CL final</h3>

On the other side of the draw, there will be an all-Italian clash between Napoli and AC Milan as the two will have the golden opportunity to make the final. Napoli are already 18 points clear at the top of the Serie A and will have all the space to make the finals if they get the better of AC Milan. On the flip side, Inter Milan face two-time champions Benfica, with the winner facing the winner of the former tie.

The nature of the draw also means that one of Napoli, Inter Milan, Benfica and AC Milan will make the final of the competition while only one of Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Real Madrid will reach the final in Istanbul.

The ties will be played on the evening of the 11th and 12th of April for the first leg while the return legs will take place on the 18th and 19th of April.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The draws for the Champions League quarterfinals have been made as defending champions Real Madrid will once again meet English giants Chelsea while Pep Guardiola will return to Bayern Munich after Manchester City were drawn against the German powerhouse.

The draws for the Champions League quarterfinals have been made as defending champions Real Madrid will once again meet English giants Chelsea while Pep Guardiola will return to Bayern Munich after Manchester City were drawn against the German powerhouse. While all four teams have been placed on the same side of the draw in the semifinal, meaning only one of the above-mentioned teams will make it to the final in Istanbul in June. 🇪🇸 Real Madrid vs Chelsea 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 🇵🇹 Benfica vs Inter 🇮🇹 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Man City vs Bayern 🇩🇪 🇮🇹 Milan vs Napoli 🇮🇹 *FC Internazionale Milano's match has been reversed in accordance with the principles set by the Club Competitions Committee. #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/m1gMqFs1fV — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 17, 2023 × Champions League Draw in full Real Madrid or Chelsea v Man City or Bayern Munich Milan or Napoli v Inter or Benfica Real Madrid to set for another England visit For an astonishing fifth consecutive knockout tie, Real Madrid have drawn English opponents as they face Chelsea in the repeat of last season’s quarterfinal. Real beat Liverpool 6-2 over the two legs while Graham Potter’s side beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 to advance to the later stage of the competition. Real could yet face another visit to England if Bayern Munich lose to Manchester City in the other quarterfinal draw. Manchester City will travel to Germany yet again as they face Pep’s former side Bayern in another mouth-watering clash. Bayern got the better of Paris Saint-Germain while City beat German high-flyers RB Leipzig with the second leg ending 7-0 in favour of the Premier League side. ALSO READ | Sachin Tendulkar underlines the reason why ODIs are getting monotonous and boring, comes up with a solution Napoli favourite to make CL final On the other side of the draw, there will be an all-Italian clash between Napoli and AC Milan as the two will have the golden opportunity to make the final. Napoli are already 18 points clear at the top of the Serie A and will have all the space to make the finals if they get the better of AC Milan. On the flip side, Inter Milan face two-time champions Benfica, with the winner facing the winner of the former tie. The nature of the draw also means that one of Napoli, Inter Milan, Benfica and AC Milan will make the final of the competition while only one of Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Real Madrid will reach the final in Istanbul. The ties will be played on the evening of the 11th and 12th of April for the first leg while the return legs will take place on the 18th and 19th of April. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Chelsea to meet Real Madrid yet again in QF; Man City draw German powerhouse Bayern Munich

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team were full of confidence after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday. The record 14-time champions of Europe beat Liverpool 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu, 6-2 on aggregate, to progress to the last eight. Madrid are aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time in 10 seasons and Ancelotti believes his team's remarkable run to glory last season has given them a lot of confidence.

Los Blancos pulled off stunning comebacks against Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City, before beating Liverpool in the final. Even in the last 16 first-leg clash with Jurgen Klopp's Reds, Madrid fell two goals behind before roaring to a 5-2 win.

"We have a lot more confidence, because of what happened last year, it gave us a lot of confidence," Ancelotti told reporters. "We saw that in this tie, against a strong team, we did well in the two games.

"But later, with confidence alone, we don't reach the semi-finals. We have to play surprising football ... as always, the Champions League is very complicated and we have to compete until the end."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/benzema-guides-madrid-past-liverpool-to-reach-champions-league-quarters-572457">Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters</a>

The coach hailed the blend of youth and experience in his squad, with veteran midfielders Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, and youngster Eduardo Camavinga, playing well together against Liverpool.

"The atmosphere is created by the players -- the intelligence, humility and patience of the veterans," said Ancelotti. "The key is the humility of the veterans, they don't have egos, and the patience of the youngsters because in front of them are players who have had fantastic careers and still are.

"Modric and Kroos aren't playing because of the careers they have had, they are playing because they deserve it."

Klopp praised Real Madrid's mentality in big European games.

"They are used to handling it in the best way, and we will have to see if they can do it again this year," said the Liverpool coach. "Unfortunately we will have to watch these big games from a distance.

"I don't know who will win it, to be honest. It will be interesting to watch."

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team were full of confidence after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday. The record 14-time champions of Europe beat Liverpool 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu, 6-2 on aggregate, to progress to the last eight.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team were full of confidence after reaching the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday. The record 14-time champions of Europe beat Liverpool 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu, 6-2 on aggregate, to progress to the last eight. Madrid are aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time in 10 seasons and Ancelotti believes his team's remarkable run to glory last season has given them a lot of confidence. Los Blancos pulled off stunning comebacks against Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City, before beating Liverpool in the final. Even in the last 16 first-leg clash with Jurgen Klopp's Reds, Madrid fell two goals behind before roaring to a 5-2 win. "We have a lot more confidence, because of what happened last year, it gave us a lot of confidence," Ancelotti told reporters. "We saw that in this tie, against a strong team, we did well in the two games. "But later, with confidence alone, we don't reach the semi-finals. We have to play surprising football ... as always, the Champions League is very complicated and we have to compete until the end." ALSO READ: Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters The coach hailed the blend of youth and experience in his squad, with veteran midfielders Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, and youngster Eduardo Camavinga, playing well together against Liverpool. "The atmosphere is created by the players -- the intelligence, humility and patience of the veterans," said Ancelotti. "The key is the humility of the veterans, they don't have egos, and the patience of the youngsters because in front of them are players who have had fantastic careers and still are. "Modric and Kroos aren't playing because of the careers they have had, they are playing because they deserve it." Klopp praised Real Madrid's mentality in big European games. "They are used to handling it in the best way, and we will have to see if they can do it again this year," said the Liverpool coach. "Unfortunately we will have to watch these big games from a distance. "I don't know who will win it, to be honest. It will be interesting to watch."

Champions League: Win over Liverpool gave us confidence, says Real Madrid's Carlos Ancelotti

Victor Osimhen made sure Napoli reached the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in their history with a brace in Wednesday's 3-0 stroll past Eintracht Frankfurt.

Nigeria striker Osimhen struck either side of half-time to ensure no slip-ups in Naples and help Napoli secure a straightforward, and deserved, 5-0 aggregate win.

Piotr Zielinski added Napoli's third from the penalty spot on a perfect night for southern Italy's biggest club, who Osimhen believes can go all the way.

"It's amazing to make history with this win. I'm happy to contribute to this win, we want to keep on going like this. It's beautiful to advance in this kind of competition," said Osimhen to Amazon Prime.

"We will keep on dreaming, we have the squad to do so (win the Champions League). I think we are on the right path. We have a great coach. We will see what the future holds for us, I think we have a good chance,” he added.&nbsp;

Luciano Spalletti's side are close to securing their first Serie A title in over three decades and an already remarkable season got even better with a place in Friday's draw for the last eight of Europe's top club competition.

They have been powered to an almost certain domestic triumph and a deep run in Europe by the red-hot Osimhen, who has now netted 23 times in all competitions for possibly the continent's most exciting team.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/benzema-guides-madrid-past-liverpool-to-reach-champions-league-quarters-572457">Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters</a>

Eintracht were without suspended France forward Randal Kolo Muani following his sending off in the first leg and the Bundesliga outfit did very little to trouble Napoli.

Oliver Glasner's side head out of the competition on a night in which their fans were involved in serious disorder after travelling to Naples despite no tickets for away fans being put on sale.

Eintracht had decided to not take up their ticket allocation for the match after Italian authorities produced two separate bans in a matter of days.

Fan clashes&nbsp;

That didn't stop the German club's hardcore fans however, who clashed with local police on a tense evening in Naples.

Footage in Italian media from Tuesday also showed Napoli fans throwing objects at buses carrying Eintracht fans.

Around the stadium the atmosphere was less fraught as Napoli got through without any trouble.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia almost scored his second wonder goal in less than a week in the 19th minute after a brilliant tackle from Piotr Zielinski sent him charging towards goal.

But he was forced wide just as he looked for a shooting chance and ended up being denied smartly by Kevin Trapp, who did well again two minutes before the break to denied the Georgian.

However Trapp could do nothing to stop Osimhen putting Napoli ahead moments later, the Nigeria international showing why he is one of the most highly-rated strikers in the world with a perfectly timed leap and header from Matteo Politano's hanging cross.

And Osimhen struck again seven minutes after the break with a simpler finish, this time tapping in Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross after more good play from Politano and Kvaratskhelia.

WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uefa-to-refund-liverpool-fans-for-champions-league-final-chaos-569603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Napoli were cruising and, after two half-chances for Eintracht's Daichi Kamada and Rafael Borre and another good save from Trapp on Kvaratskhelia, they were three ahead on the night.

The excellent Zielinski was brought down by Djibril Sow, allowing the Poland midfielder to dust himself down and calmly slot home a spot-kick in the 64th minute.

All that was left was for the packed Stadio Maradona to shout 'Ole' at every pass as they watched their team make history.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Victor Osimhen made sure Napoli reached the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in their history with a brace in Wednesday's 3-0 stroll past Eintracht Frankfurt.

Victor Osimhen made sure Napoli reached the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in their history with a brace in Wednesday's 3-0 stroll past Eintracht Frankfurt. Nigeria striker Osimhen struck either side of half-time to ensure no slip-ups in Naples and help Napoli secure a straightforward, and deserved, 5-0 aggregate win. Piotr Zielinski added Napoli's third from the penalty spot on a perfect night for southern Italy's biggest club, who Osimhen believes can go all the way. "It's amazing to make history with this win. I'm happy to contribute to this win, we want to keep on going like this. It's beautiful to advance in this kind of competition," said Osimhen to Amazon Prime. "We will keep on dreaming, we have the squad to do so (win the Champions League). I think we are on the right path. We have a great coach. We will see what the future holds for us, I think we have a good chance,” he added. Luciano Spalletti's side are close to securing their first Serie A title in over three decades and an already remarkable season got even better with a place in Friday's draw for the last eight of Europe's top club competition. They have been powered to an almost certain domestic triumph and a deep run in Europe by the red-hot Osimhen, who has now netted 23 times in all competitions for possibly the continent's most exciting team. ALSO READ | Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters Eintracht were without suspended France forward Randal Kolo Muani following his sending off in the first leg and the Bundesliga outfit did very little to trouble Napoli. Oliver Glasner's side head out of the competition on a night in which their fans were involved in serious disorder after travelling to Naples despite no tickets for away fans being put on sale. Eintracht had decided to not take up their ticket allocation for the match after Italian authorities produced two separate bans in a matter of days. Fan clashes That didn't stop the German club's hardcore fans however, who clashed with local police on a tense evening in Naples. Footage in Italian media from Tuesday also showed Napoli fans throwing objects at buses carrying Eintracht fans. Around the stadium the atmosphere was less fraught as Napoli got through without any trouble. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia almost scored his second wonder goal in less than a week in the 19th minute after a brilliant tackle from Piotr Zielinski sent him charging towards goal. But he was forced wide just as he looked for a shooting chance and ended up being denied smartly by Kevin Trapp, who did well again two minutes before the break to denied the Georgian. However Trapp could do nothing to stop Osimhen putting Napoli ahead moments later, the Nigeria international showing why he is one of the most highly-rated strikers in the world with a perfectly timed leap and header from Matteo Politano's hanging cross. And Osimhen struck again seven minutes after the break with a simpler finish, this time tapping in Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross after more good play from Politano and Kvaratskhelia. WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos Napoli were cruising and, after two half-chances for Eintracht's Daichi Kamada and Rafael Borre and another good save from Trapp on Kvaratskhelia, they were three ahead on the night. The excellent Zielinski was brought down by Djibril Sow, allowing the Poland midfielder to dust himself down and calmly slot home a spot-kick in the 64th minute. All that was left was for the packed Stadio Maradona to shout 'Ole' at every pass as they watched their team make history. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Osimhen fires Napoli past Eintracht, into Champions League last eight

Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate.

After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around.

They stemmed the bleeding at the Santiago Bernabeu but never looked like mounting a stirring comeback of the type they managed against Barcelona in 2019, or AC Milan in the 2005 final.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-eye-improbable-comeback-against-real-madrid-napoli-search-for-qf-berth-572338">Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth</a>

Madrid have now knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League in three consecutive seasons, including beating them in last year's final.

The 14-time record winners showed the nous to keep Liverpool at arm's length, with defenders Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger determined to shut out the visitors, along with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Reigning champions Madrid could have significantly stretched their lead, save for a series of superb stops by Liverpool stopper Alisson Becker and some unusually profligate finishing.

In the first leg, Madrid were lethal, with Vinicius Junior and Benzema netting twice each - neither had their shooting boots on in the Spanish capital.

Eventually they combined for Madrid's winner after 78 minutes, with Vinicius slipping as he tried to shoot, but managing to hook the ball into Benzema's path for a simple tap-in.

Madrid's only worry was seeing their captain limp off after his goal amid an injury-hit season.

WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uefa-to-refund-liverpool-fans-for-champions-league-final-chaos-569603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Liverpool, wildly inconsistent in this campaign, took heart from their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United in the Premier League, but could not produce the same magic under the Bernabeu lights.

Klopp started with Diogo Jota alongside his usual attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, deploying as much firepower as he could to try and mount a comeback.

The first chance of the game fell to Nunez but Courtois thwarted the Uruguayan, who was fed by Salah. At the other end Madrid sliced open Liverpool but Toni Kroos could not find Benzema, back after missing the win over Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday with an ankle problem.

Vinicius did produce a superb pass to feed the French striker, but Benzema miscontrolled and could not get a shot away.

The hosts began to dominate, running rings around James Milner and Fabinho in midfield, and Alisson made a stunning save to deny Vinicius from point-blank range.

Eduardo Camavinga, selected over Aurelien Tchouameni in defensive midfield by Ancelotti, crashed a long-range effort against the crossbar, with Alisson getting his fingertips to it.

The Brazilian goalkeeper denied Vinicius at his near post after he got in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold - not for the first time - and watched a Luka Modric drive fly narrowly over.

Liverpool showed signs of life near the end of the first half, with Nunez forcing Courtois into a full length stop with a curling effort.

However Madrid were on top at the start of the second half and Alisson foiled Fede Valverde as he ran through on goal, before fielding a tame Benzema follow-up.

Camavinga impressed in midfield and helped create Benzema's goal, with a drive forward pass in the build-up.

The striker has now scored seven times in the Champions League against Liverpool, more than any other player.

Benzema is key to Madrid's bid to lift the trophy for a sixth time in 10 seasons, if he can stay fit.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate. After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around.

Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate. After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around. They stemmed the bleeding at the Santiago Bernabeu but never looked like mounting a stirring comeback of the type they managed against Barcelona in 2019, or AC Milan in the 2005 final. ALSO READ | Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth Madrid have now knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League in three consecutive seasons, including beating them in last year's final. The 14-time record winners showed the nous to keep Liverpool at arm's length, with defenders Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger determined to shut out the visitors, along with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Reigning champions Madrid could have significantly stretched their lead, save for a series of superb stops by Liverpool stopper Alisson Becker and some unusually profligate finishing. In the first leg, Madrid were lethal, with Vinicius Junior and Benzema netting twice each - neither had their shooting boots on in the Spanish capital. Eventually they combined for Madrid's winner after 78 minutes, with Vinicius slipping as he tried to shoot, but managing to hook the ball into Benzema's path for a simple tap-in. Madrid's only worry was seeing their captain limp off after his goal amid an injury-hit season. WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos Liverpool, wildly inconsistent in this campaign, took heart from their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United in the Premier League, but could not produce the same magic under the Bernabeu lights. Klopp started with Diogo Jota alongside his usual attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, deploying as much firepower as he could to try and mount a comeback. The first chance of the game fell to Nunez but Courtois thwarted the Uruguayan, who was fed by Salah. At the other end Madrid sliced open Liverpool but Toni Kroos could not find Benzema, back after missing the win over Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday with an ankle problem. Vinicius did produce a superb pass to feed the French striker, but Benzema miscontrolled and could not get a shot away. The hosts began to dominate, running rings around James Milner and Fabinho in midfield, and Alisson made a stunning save to deny Vinicius from point-blank range. Eduardo Camavinga, selected over Aurelien Tchouameni in defensive midfield by Ancelotti, crashed a long-range effort against the crossbar, with Alisson getting his fingertips to it. The Brazilian goalkeeper denied Vinicius at his near post after he got in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold - not for the first time - and watched a Luka Modric drive fly narrowly over. Liverpool showed signs of life near the end of the first half, with Nunez forcing Courtois into a full length stop with a curling effort. However Madrid were on top at the start of the second half and Alisson foiled Fede Valverde as he ran through on goal, before fielding a tame Benzema follow-up. Camavinga impressed in midfield and helped create Benzema's goal, with a drive forward pass in the build-up. The striker has now scored seven times in the Champions League against Liverpool, more than any other player. Benzema is key to Madrid's bid to lift the trophy for a sixth time in 10 seasons, if he can stay fit. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters

Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16&nbsp;of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15. Trailing 2-5 from the first leg, the Reds will need a historic performance to book their berth in the last eight with the defending champions hungry for more success. In the second encounter of the night, Italian giants Napoli will take on Eintracht Frankfurt as they too look to advance to the latter stages.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
👀 How can you watch it? 
 
All you need to know about the second leg between Real Madrid and Liverpool 👇👇👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1635973177783320577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h3>Liverpool eye historic comeback</h3>

Braces from Karim Benzema and Vinícius Jr. were enough for Jurgen Klopp's men as they were condemned to the 2-5 defeat despite leading 2-0 at one stage of the contest. Liverpool have not won a Champions League game against Real since 2009 and will look to break the duck, but even that won't be enough for them to book a quarterfinal berth. On the horizon, Real have been in decent form of late and dropped points in La Liga recently but will look to switch again as they try to push for another shot at glory.

Thiago Alcantara, Luis Diaz and Jordan Henderson are probably out for the visitors while Real will look to play an attacking eleven despite having a healthy lead in the tie. The likes of Benzema, Modric and Kroos are expected to start if there are no late injury concerns.&nbsp;

As things stand, Real are on an unbeaten run of seven matches against Liverpool and will look to0 extend that lead on Wednesday.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-explained-how-smriti-mandhanas-rcb-can-still-qualify-for-playoffs-after-five-successive-defeats-572271">WPL 2023: EXPLAINED! How Smriti Mandhana's RCB can still qualify for playoffs after five successive defeats</a></h3>

<h3>Napoli look for last eight berth</h3>

Italian giants and run-away leaders in the Serie A Napoli will look to book their place in the quarterfinal of the Champions League as they come with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Frankfurt have been struggling in the Bundesliga this season but will look to make amends in the Champions League, but will have to produce a &nbsp;remarkable comeback. Napoli are currently 18 points clear at the top of Serie A and will concentrate on Europe once they are done with domestic affairs. Luciano Spalletti's men are the dark horses to win the title this season with the impressive squad at their disposal.

Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16 of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15.

Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16 of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15. Trailing 2-5 from the first leg, the Reds will need a historic performance to book their berth in the last eight with the defending champions hungry for more success. In the second encounter of the night, Italian giants Napoli will take on Eintracht Frankfurt as they too look to advance to the latter stages. 👀 How can you watch it? All you need to know about the second leg between Real Madrid and Liverpool 👇👇👇#UCL — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 15, 2023 × Liverpool eye historic comeback Braces from Karim Benzema and Vinícius Jr. were enough for Jurgen Klopp's men as they were condemned to the 2-5 defeat despite leading 2-0 at one stage of the contest. Liverpool have not won a Champions League game against Real since 2009 and will look to break the duck, but even that won't be enough for them to book a quarterfinal berth. On the horizon, Real have been in decent form of late and dropped points in La Liga recently but will look to switch again as they try to push for another shot at glory. Thiago Alcantara, Luis Diaz and Jordan Henderson are probably out for the visitors while Real will look to play an attacking eleven despite having a healthy lead in the tie. The likes of Benzema, Modric and Kroos are expected to start if there are no late injury concerns. As things stand, Real are on an unbeaten run of seven matches against Liverpool and will look to0 extend that lead on Wednesday. ALSO READ | WPL 2023: EXPLAINED! How Smriti Mandhana's RCB can still qualify for playoffs after five successive defeats Napoli look for last eight berth Italian giants and run-away leaders in the Serie A Napoli will look to book their place in the quarterfinal of the Champions League as they come with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Frankfurt have been struggling in the Bundesliga this season but will look to make amends in the Champions League, but will have to produce a remarkable comeback. Napoli are currently 18 points clear at the top of Serie A and will concentrate on Europe once they are done with domestic affairs. Luciano Spalletti's men are the dark horses to win the title this season with the impressive squad at their disposal.

Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth