"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Pep+Guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.&nbsp;

In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played."&nbsp;

"Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added.&nbsp;

Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday.&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said.&nbsp;

City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out."&nbsp;

"In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals."&nbsp;

They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.&nbsp;

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season.

"We have played incredible over the last two months," said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and hopes that his side can maintain their current form till the end of the season. In a pre-match conference, Guardiola said, "Incredible amount of games we won, especially in the last two to three weeks how well we have played." "Now we'd like to continue that way. In the end, there is a consequence in our results for the way we play. I would like to finish in that way but it's not easy now," he added. Manchester City have leapfrogged Liverpool in the Premier League and moved a point clear last weekend and they will play Watford at home in the league on Saturday. "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race," he said. City's Spanish coach referred to all three matches the team will play this week (Premier League vs Watford, FA Cup vs Swansea City and UEFA Champions League vs Schalke) and said, "This week we have three games in three different competitions that allow us to go through or out." "In the Premier League, everything is close with Liverpool. Nothing is going to change too much with a win or loss in the title race. But in the other competitions (those matches) are absolute finals." They are still in the FA Cup and lead Schalke 3-2 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

Pep Guardiola hopes 'incredible' Manchester City can maintain form

Injured Paris St Germain striker Neymar lashed out at the video assistant referee (VAR) system on Wednesday, calling the late penalty decision that led to their elimination from the Champions League a "disgrace".

The French champions won 2-0 away at Manchester United in the first leg and although they were 2-1 down on the night they were going through on aggregate until the stoppage-time penalty award gave United a shock 3-1 win.

The spot-kick, awarded for handball against Presnel Kimpembe after the referee consulted the VAR, put the English club through on away goals.

The decision infuriated Neymar, who watched the match from the stands after returning a few hours earlier from partying at Rio de Janeiro's famous carnival.

"This is a disgrace!! And they put four guys there who don't understand football to look at a slow-motion replay ... It's just not possible!!!"

"How is a guy going to hold his hand behind his back," he wrote in Portuguese on Instagram, before finishing with an expletive commonly used in Brazil.

Neymar missed both legs of the tie after injuring his foot in January.

PSG manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood Neymar's anger at the decision and defended his comments, saying they were made in the heat of the moment.

"Of course it's a strong reaction, he was at the field. Sometimes when you remember yourself in a big fight and you remember being very emotional, you use words and you react in a way that you take back some hours later," Tuchel told reporters.

"He wanted to come back with us in the quarter-finals and he's been biting his nails at every game we've played without him, so don't be too harsh on him.

"I wouldn't over-interpret the use of his words. In the heat of the moment, it's quickly typed into a smartphone."

The Brazil captain joined the French club from Barcelona in August 2017 for a world record fee and the Champions League has become the holy grail for him and a club that have spent big to fulfil that goal.

However, this latest defeat marked the third time in three years they have failed to make the last eight of the Champions League.

Even though Wednesday's loss was just their third in 51 European games at the Parc des Princes, they have never reached the semi-finals of the continent's premier club competition since being taken over by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011.

Injured Paris St Germain striker Neymar lashed out at the video assistant referee (VAR) system on Wednesday, calling the late penalty decision that led to their elimination from the Champions League a "disgrace".

Injured Paris St Germain striker Neymar lashed out at the video assistant referee (VAR) system on Wednesday, calling the late penalty decision that led to their elimination from the Champions League a "disgrace". The French champions won 2-0 away at Manchester United in the first leg and although they were 2-1 down on the night they were going through on aggregate until the stoppage-time penalty award gave United a shock 3-1 win. The spot-kick, awarded for handball against Presnel Kimpembe after the referee consulted the VAR, put the English club through on away goals. The decision infuriated Neymar, who watched the match from the stands after returning a few hours earlier from partying at Rio de Janeiro's famous carnival. "This is a disgrace!! And they put four guys there who don't understand football to look at a slow-motion replay ... It's just not possible!!!" "How is a guy going to hold his hand behind his back," he wrote in Portuguese on Instagram, before finishing with an expletive commonly used in Brazil. Neymar missed both legs of the tie after injuring his foot in January. PSG manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood Neymar's anger at the decision and defended his comments, saying they were made in the heat of the moment. "Of course it's a strong reaction, he was at the field. Sometimes when you remember yourself in a big fight and you remember being very emotional, you use words and you react in a way that you take back some hours later," Tuchel told reporters. "He wanted to come back with us in the quarter-finals and he's been biting his nails at every game we've played without him, so don't be too harsh on him. "I wouldn't over-interpret the use of his words. In the heat of the moment, it's quickly typed into a smartphone." The Brazil captain joined the French club from Barcelona in August 2017 for a world record fee and the Champions League has become the holy grail for him and a club that have spent big to fulfil that goal. However, this latest defeat marked the third time in three years they have failed to make the last eight of the Champions League. Even though Wednesday's loss was just their third in 51 European games at the Parc des Princes, they have never reached the semi-finals of the continent's premier club competition since being taken over by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011.

Neymar lashes out at VAR after PSG's Champions League loss

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal said he had never felt so awful after the triple Champions League holders were booted out of the competition with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-told-me-to-knock-out-madrid-says-ajax-midfielder-de-jong-201424">humiliating 4-1 home defeat to Ajax Amsterdam</a> on Tuesday.

Real, who had won four of the last five editions of the competition, are almost certain to end the campaign empty-handed, having been knocked out of the Copa del Rey in the semi-finals by Barcelona last week and having fallen 12 points behind the Catalans in La Liga.

"I think I have never felt this awful, I do not know how to explain it," Carvajal said after Ajax completed a 5-3 aggregate victory.

"This week everything has gone against us. Tonight we cannot look for excuses. Our opponents were better and they deserved to go through. We have to show our faces and not hide, our season has been a piece of shit."

Real, whose captain Sergio Ramos was suspended after intentionally getting a yellow card in the first leg, conceded two early goals as Hakim Ziyech and David Neres scored for the rampant visitors, who had also dominated the first match despite losing.

The outstanding Dusan Tadic made it 3-0 with a thumping strike in the second half and although Marco Asensio pulled a goal back for Real, Lasse Schone made it 4-1 with a free kick which flummoxed goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Real coach Santiago Solari did not hide his disappointment at the defeat, which was Madrid's joint-heaviest home loss in European competition, but said the players should be remembered for their enormous Champions League achievements.

"These players were champions of Europe three years in a row, now they have been knocked out and it's a very sad moment which puts into perspective how difficult it is to win the European Cup," the Argentine said.

"We are sad and feeling hurt, our huge efforts were in vain. We feel so bad, an infinite number of things happened in this game."

Former Madrid player Solari, who became coach in October when Julen Lopetegui was sacked, is on thin ice after overseeing four consecutive home defeats but he ruled out resigning.

"I have not come here to give up, I am not considering anything like this," he said.

"I cannot evaluate my work. We are obliged to act like professionals, and tomorrow we have training."

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal said he had never felt so awful after the triple Champions League holders were booted out of the competition with a humiliating 4-1 home defeat to Ajax Amsterdam on Tuesday.

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal said he had never felt so awful after the triple Champions League holders were booted out of the competition with a humiliating 4-1 home defeat to Ajax Amsterdam on Tuesday. Real, who had won four of the last five editions of the competition, are almost certain to end the campaign empty-handed, having been knocked out of the Copa del Rey in the semi-finals by Barcelona last week and having fallen 12 points behind the Catalans in La Liga. "I think I have never felt this awful, I do not know how to explain it," Carvajal said after Ajax completed a 5-3 aggregate victory. "This week everything has gone against us. Tonight we cannot look for excuses. Our opponents were better and they deserved to go through. We have to show our faces and not hide, our season has been a piece of shit." Real, whose captain Sergio Ramos was suspended after intentionally getting a yellow card in the first leg, conceded two early goals as Hakim Ziyech and David Neres scored for the rampant visitors, who had also dominated the first match despite losing. The outstanding Dusan Tadic made it 3-0 with a thumping strike in the second half and although Marco Asensio pulled a goal back for Real, Lasse Schone made it 4-1 with a free kick which flummoxed goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Real coach Santiago Solari did not hide his disappointment at the defeat, which was Madrid's joint-heaviest home loss in European competition, but said the players should be remembered for their enormous Champions League achievements. "These players were champions of Europe three years in a row, now they have been knocked out and it's a very sad moment which puts into perspective how difficult it is to win the European Cup," the Argentine said. "We are sad and feeling hurt, our huge efforts were in vain. We feel so bad, an infinite number of things happened in this game." Former Madrid player Solari, who became coach in October when Julen Lopetegui was sacked, is on thin ice after overseeing four consecutive home defeats but he ruled out resigning. "I have not come here to give up, I am not considering anything like this," he said. "I cannot evaluate my work. We are obliged to act like professionals, and tomorrow we have training."

'Everything has gone against us', says Real Madrid's Carvajal

Revolution is in the air at Real Madrid after their Champions League empire was razed to the ground with an astounding 4-1 loss at home to Ajax Amsterdam, with a huge clear out of players expected as well as a change of manager.

Coach Santiago Solari may have a contract until 2021 but no-one expects him to remain beyond the close season after overseeing Tuesday's catastrophic last-16 second leg defeat which ended the club's 1,012-day reign as kings of Europe.

It also effectively ended Madrid's season, after successive defeats to Barcelona which sent them out of the Copa del Rey and put them 12 points adrift of Barca in the title race, five more than when Solari succeeded Julen Lopetegui in October.

Jose Mourinho, who won a La Liga title with 100 points but left a legacy of division in his three years at Madrid, is already being touted as the man best suited to the lead the transformation of a squad that has won it all but turned stale.

The Portuguese is out of work after being sacked by Manchester United in December and despite meeting another dire end to his penultimate job with Chelsea, Marca appear to be beating the drum for his return, urging president Florentino Perez to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Only one positive conclusion can be extracted from the wreckage of a dark night: the best coach in the world, Jose Mourinho, has time to work," said the newspaper.

"Mourinho's advantage is he is free and is waiting for the call. Bring him, Florentino bring him now."

COMPLICATED PROCESS

Overhauling a squad with many underperforming players already over the age of 30 or approaching it and on inflated wages will be a more complicated process for Madrid.

Gareth Bale, who hit the post against Ajax and ended the game hobbling with an ankle injury, looks to be at the end of his tether in Spain, while Isco and Marcelo also look certain to go after dropping out of the side in recent months.

Real, meanwhile, need a new galvanising figure to restore their attacking power after failing to address the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo and the 50 goals he would routinely score per season.

Defender Nacho, however, said he did not feel this was the end of an era for his team, who until Tuesday had a stranglehold on Europe's biggest prize that is unprecedented in the modern era.

"I don't think we have completed our cycle, this squad is still very good," he said.

"Some will say that we need new players and others have left but this squad had the ability to fight for trophies. This season has been a rollercoaster for us.

"It was a very tough night but we have to stay strong. We have to keep our heads up, learn from our mistakes and not forget what we have achieved as what we have done will be remembered for a very long time."

Revolution is in the air at Real Madrid after their Champions League empire was razed to the ground with an astounding 4-1 loss at home to Ajax Amsterdam, with a huge clear out of players expected as well as a change of manager.

Revolution is in the air at Real Madrid after their Champions League empire was razed to the ground with an astounding 4-1 loss at home to Ajax Amsterdam, with a huge clear out of players expected as well as a change of manager. Coach Santiago Solari may have a contract until 2021 but no-one expects him to remain beyond the close season after overseeing Tuesday's catastrophic last-16 second leg defeat which ended the club's 1,012-day reign as kings of Europe. It also effectively ended Madrid's season, after successive defeats to Barcelona which sent them out of the Copa del Rey and put them 12 points adrift of Barca in the title race, five more than when Solari succeeded Julen Lopetegui in October. Jose Mourinho, who won a La Liga title with 100 points but left a legacy of division in his three years at Madrid, is already being touted as the man best suited to the lead the transformation of a squad that has won it all but turned stale. The Portuguese is out of work after being sacked by Manchester United in December and despite meeting another dire end to his penultimate job with Chelsea, Marca appear to be beating the drum for his return, urging president Florentino Perez to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabeu. "Only one positive conclusion can be extracted from the wreckage of a dark night: the best coach in the world, Jose Mourinho, has time to work," said the newspaper. "Mourinho's advantage is he is free and is waiting for the call. Bring him, Florentino bring him now." COMPLICATED PROCESS Overhauling a squad with many underperforming players already over the age of 30 or approaching it and on inflated wages will be a more complicated process for Madrid. Gareth Bale, who hit the post against Ajax and ended the game hobbling with an ankle injury, looks to be at the end of his tether in Spain, while Isco and Marcelo also look certain to go after dropping out of the side in recent months. Real, meanwhile, need a new galvanising figure to restore their attacking power after failing to address the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo and the 50 goals he would routinely score per season. Defender Nacho, however, said he did not feel this was the end of an era for his team, who until Tuesday had a stranglehold on Europe's biggest prize that is unprecedented in the modern era. "I don't think we have completed our cycle, this squad is still very good," he said. "Some will say that we need new players and others have left but this squad had the ability to fight for trophies. This season has been a rollercoaster for us. "It was a very tough night but we have to stay strong. We have to keep our heads up, learn from our mistakes and not forget what we have achieved as what we have done will be remembered for a very long time."

Madrid set for huge changes after seismic defeat to Ajax, with Mourinho waiting in wings

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari has reacted to the rumours of his exit from the club as there have been speculations that&nbsp;Jose Mourinho might return as a head coach.&nbsp;

Recently,&nbsp;Mourinho&nbsp;was a guest pundit on Qatar-based beIN Sport where he analysed Real's latest loss to Barcelona. He said, "Return to a club that I have been before?".&nbsp;

And the rumours started when he said, "If I think the right club, the right structure, the right ambitions, I will have no problem at all."&nbsp;

"I think it's really a reason of pride when a club where you worked before wants you back," Mourinho added.&nbsp;

Mourinho managed Real for three stormy seasons from 2010 to 2013.&nbsp;

Solari responded with a joke about Roberts at his press conference on Monday. When asked whether the actress would prefer himself or Mourinho, the Argentine smiled.&nbsp;

Real Madrid "has always been more courted than Julia Roberts", said coach Santiago Solari.&nbsp;

"Good question," he said. "You should ask her."&nbsp;

"It is true that we have had lots of chances in recent matches, except in the last one, and we have to take them," said Solari.&nbsp;

"The dressing room is strong, these players have a lot of experience and a lot of character," Solari said. "That does not mean we're happy with what's happening."&nbsp;

"We want to win every game. When we do not win we are not happy, but tomorrow we have another game," he added.&nbsp;

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari has reacted to the rumours of his exit from the club as there have been speculations that Jose Mourinho might return as a head coach.

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari has reacted to the rumours of his exit from the club as there have been speculations that Jose Mourinho might return as a head coach. Recently, Mourinho was a guest pundit on Qatar-based beIN Sport where he analysed Real's latest loss to Barcelona. He said, "Return to a club that I have been before?". And the rumours started when he said, "If I think the right club, the right structure, the right ambitions, I will have no problem at all." "I think it's really a reason of pride when a club where you worked before wants you back," Mourinho added. Mourinho managed Real for three stormy seasons from 2010 to 2013. Solari responded with a joke about Roberts at his press conference on Monday. When asked whether the actress would prefer himself or Mourinho, the Argentine smiled. Real Madrid "has always been more courted than Julia Roberts", said coach Santiago Solari. "Good question," he said. "You should ask her." "It is true that we have had lots of chances in recent matches, except in the last one, and we have to take them," said Solari. "The dressing room is strong, these players have a lot of experience and a lot of character," Solari said. "That does not mean we're happy with what's happening." "We want to win every game. When we do not win we are not happy, but tomorrow we have another game," he added.

Ask Julia Roberts who should coach Real Madrid, says coach Santiago Solari

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus.

Bundesliga leaders Dortmund have managed just one win in their last five league games, while also losing to Tottenham in London and being eliminated by Werder Bremen in the German Cup.

Reus, injured in the game against Werder in early February, returned on Friday but could do nothing to avert their second league loss of the season, 2-1 at Augsburg.

On Monday, he sounded confident that his team could still turn things around against the English side if they hit top form on the night.

"I think this stadium (in Dortmund) has seen its share of games where history was written," Reus told a news conference. "We can also do it. But we need a top performance and to score the goals at the right time. I think we are in a position to achieve the impossible."

Dortmund still have the best attack in the German Bundesliga but in recent weeks they have struggled to score while also conceding goals through individual errors.

Their seven-point gap a few weeks ago has now shrunk to a slim goal difference ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich while their lacklustre first-leg performance against Tottenham also raised alarm bells.

"We know in the past weeks we have gifted away points because we made too many mistakes," Reus said. "We have to remain positive and keep working.

"We have to be stronger, have a stronger mentality, like we had in the previous months. We will emerge from this."

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus.

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus. Bundesliga leaders Dortmund have managed just one win in their last five league games, while also losing to Tottenham in London and being eliminated by Werder Bremen in the German Cup. Reus, injured in the game against Werder in early February, returned on Friday but could do nothing to avert their second league loss of the season, 2-1 at Augsburg. On Monday, he sounded confident that his team could still turn things around against the English side if they hit top form on the night. "I think this stadium (in Dortmund) has seen its share of games where history was written," Reus told a news conference. "We can also do it. But we need a top performance and to score the goals at the right time. I think we are in a position to achieve the impossible." Dortmund still have the best attack in the German Bundesliga but in recent weeks they have struggled to score while also conceding goals through individual errors. Their seven-point gap a few weeks ago has now shrunk to a slim goal difference ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich while their lacklustre first-leg performance against Tottenham also raised alarm bells. "We know in the past weeks we have gifted away points because we made too many mistakes," Reus said. "We have to remain positive and keep working. "We have to be stronger, have a stronger mentality, like we had in the previous months. We will emerge from this."

Dortmund to attempt the impossible against Tottenham: Marco Reus

Real Madrid's forwards have failed to fill the gap left by Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric said on Monday (March 4).

The Croatian, speaking ahead of Real's Champions League last-16, second-leg clash with Ajax on Tuesday (March 5), said his team lacked consistency and goals this season.

Madrid failed to score in two Clasicos against Barcelona last week, being eliminated from the Copa del Rey and then falling 12 points behind the Catalan league leaders, leaving retaining the Champions League as their only realistic hope of glory.

Ronaldo, the European champions' all-time top scorer, left in July to join Juventus and Madrid signed young attackers Vinicius Junior and Mariano Diaz but, according to Modric, no one has stepped to replace the Portuguese.

"Some (players) had to step up and well, not score 50 goals but at least what we are missing. 20 goals. I'm not going to give names but two or three players should have scored 15 or 20 goals or 10 goals but we don't have that," Modric said.

Vinicius Junior has been Madrid's driving force over the past few weeks but the 18-year-old has scored only three goals this season.

Club record signing Bale has 13 goals from 33 appearances in all competitions, while top scorer Benzema has netted 20 from 42.

Madrid hold a 2-1 lead over Ajax from the first leg and coach Santiago Solari hopes the team can progress despite the ban on captain Sergio Ramos for getting himself deliberately booked in the first leg.

Asked about rumours linking Jose Mourinho with a return to his former club, Solari dismissed the rumours, jokingly saying Real Madrid have more wooers than Julia Roberts.

Real Madrid's forwards have failed to fill the gap left by Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric said on Monday (March 4). The Croatian, speaking ahead of Real's Champions League last-16, second-leg clash with Ajax on Tuesday (March 5), said his team lacked consistency and goals this season.

Real Madrid's forwards have failed to fill the gap left by Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric said on Monday (March 4). The Croatian, speaking ahead of Real's Champions League last-16, second-leg clash with Ajax on Tuesday (March 5), said his team lacked consistency and goals this season. Madrid failed to score in two Clasicos against Barcelona last week, being eliminated from the Copa del Rey and then falling 12 points behind the Catalan league leaders, leaving retaining the Champions League as their only realistic hope of glory. Ronaldo, the European champions' all-time top scorer, left in July to join Juventus and Madrid signed young attackers Vinicius Junior and Mariano Diaz but, according to Modric, no one has stepped to replace the Portuguese. "Some (players) had to step up and well, not score 50 goals but at least what we are missing. 20 goals. I'm not going to give names but two or three players should have scored 15 or 20 goals or 10 goals but we don't have that," Modric said. Vinicius Junior has been Madrid's driving force over the past few weeks but the 18-year-old has scored only three goals this season. Club record signing Bale has 13 goals from 33 appearances in all competitions, while top scorer Benzema has netted 20 from 42. Madrid hold a 2-1 lead over Ajax from the first leg and coach Santiago Solari hopes the team can progress despite the ban on captain Sergio Ramos for getting himself deliberately booked in the first leg. Asked about rumours linking Jose Mourinho with a return to his former club, Solari dismissed the rumours, jokingly saying Real Madrid have more wooers than Julia Roberts.

Luka Modric says players have failed to fill Cristiano Ronaldo's boots

UEFA announced on Monday they have started disciplinary proceedings into improper conduct by Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

The Argentinian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-coach-diego-simeone-apologises-for-obscene-in-uefa-champions-league-clash-against-juventus-199245">celebrated his side's first goal</a> in their 2-0 Champions League last 16 first win over Juventus on February 20 by grasping his genitals and thrusting out his groin.&nbsp;

Simeone apologised for his behaviour the following day and said it was to recognise the courage his team showed in the victory.&nbsp;

Juve's Massimiliano Allegri and the Italian club also face disciplinary action for the late kick-off of the game in the Spanish capital.&nbsp;

Atletico also face charges that their fans blocked stairways and threw objects during the match.&nbsp;

No date for the hearing has been set by the governing body.&nbsp;

The second leg of the tie will be played in Turin on March 12.&nbsp;

UEFA announced on Monday they have started disciplinary proceedings into improper conduct by Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone. The Argentinian celebrated his side's first goal in their 2-0 Champions League last 16 first win over Juventus on February 20 by grasping his genitals and thrusting out his groin.

UEFA announced on Monday they have started disciplinary proceedings into improper conduct by Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone. The Argentinian celebrated his side's first goal in their 2-0 Champions League last 16 first win over Juventus on February 20 by grasping his genitals and thrusting out his groin. Simeone apologised for his behaviour the following day and said it was to recognise the courage his team showed in the victory. Juve's Massimiliano Allegri and the Italian club also face disciplinary action for the late kick-off of the game in the Spanish capital. Atletico also face charges that their fans blocked stairways and threw objects during the match. No date for the hearing has been set by the governing body. The second leg of the tie will be played in Turin on March 12.

Diego Simeone faces UEFA investigation after controversial celebration

Atletico Madrid's Argentine coach Diego Simeone on Saturday brushed aside talks about the imminent transfer of Uruguayan defender Diego Godin to the Serie A side Inter.&nbsp;

The speculations regarding Godin's move&nbsp;to Inter come a few days after Inter's chief executive Giuseppe Marotta was cited as saying "We are very advanced in our negotiations and it was good to see him score against Juventus but I won't speak about the rest."&nbsp;

However, Simeone declined to comment, "I cannot say anything because it is an opinion or remarks by Marotta. In the due time, if Godin or Atletico have something to say, they will inform you."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-coach-diego-simeone-apologises-for-obscene-in-uefa-champions-league-clash-against-juventus-199245">Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone apologises for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-coach-diego-simeone-apologises-for-obscene-in-uefa-champions-league-clash-against-juventus-199245">obscene</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-coach-diego-simeone-apologises-for-obscene-in-uefa-champions-league-clash-against-juventus-199245"> gesture in UCL clash against Juventus</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
🎙 | PRESS CONFERENCE 
📻 <a href="https://twitter.com/Simeone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Simeone</a> is speaking ahead of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtletiVillarreal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtletiVillarreal</a> match: "They’re a tough team with very good players."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AúpaAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/PFVPLtE3lB">pic.twitter.com/PFVPLtE3lB</a>
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/1099281834666541056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Eying UEFA Champions League title, Atletico defeated Juventus 2-0 in the in the first leg of the UCL round of 16.&nbsp;

Apart from Godin's transfer talks,&nbsp;Simeone also commented on&nbsp;five-finger gesture done by&nbsp;Juventus and Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, hinting at his five Champions League titles.&nbsp;

He said, "Simeone said, "I understand it all, because I am part of this. I understand everything that could happen."&nbsp;

Ronaldo won the Champions League title once with Manchester United in 2007/2008, and four times with Real Madrid in the 2013/2014 season and then three consecutive titles from 2016-2018, before joining the Italian side during the summer transfer window on a surprise move.&nbsp;

Atletico, meanwhile, was unable to hoist the title of Europe's elite club tournament, despite reaching the final three times, including twice under Simeone.

Atletico lost in the 2013/2014 and 2015/2016 Champions League finals against Madrid, which was led then by Ronaldo.&nbsp;

Atletico Madrid's Argentine coach Diego Simeone on Saturday brushed aside talks about the imminent transfer of Uruguayan defender Diego Godin to the Serie A side Inter.

Atletico Madrid's Argentine coach Diego Simeone on Saturday brushed aside talks about the imminent transfer of Uruguayan defender Diego Godin to the Serie A side Inter. The speculations regarding Godin's move to Inter come a few days after Inter's chief executive Giuseppe Marotta was cited as saying "We are very advanced in our negotiations and it was good to see him score against Juventus but I won't speak about the rest." However, Simeone declined to comment, "I cannot say anything because it is an opinion or remarks by Marotta. In the due time, if Godin or Atletico have something to say, they will inform you." Also Read: Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone apologises for obscene gesture in UCL clash against Juventus 🎙 | PRESS CONFERENCE 📻 @Simeone is speaking ahead of the #AtletiVillarreal match: "They’re a tough team with very good players."#AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/PFVPLtE3lB — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 23, 2019 × Eying UEFA Champions League title, Atletico defeated Juventus 2-0 in the in the first leg of the UCL round of 16. Apart from Godin's transfer talks, Simeone also commented on five-finger gesture done by Juventus and Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo, hinting at his five Champions League titles. He said, "Simeone said, "I understand it all, because I am part of this. I understand everything that could happen." Ronaldo won the Champions League title once with Manchester United in 2007/2008, and four times with Real Madrid in the 2013/2014 season and then three consecutive titles from 2016-2018, before joining the Italian side during the summer transfer window on a surprise move. Atletico, meanwhile, was unable to hoist the title of Europe's elite club tournament, despite reaching the final three times, including twice under Simeone. Atletico lost in the 2013/2014 and 2015/2016 Champions League finals against Madrid, which was led then by Ronaldo.

Atletico Madrid's coach Diego Simeone refuses to talk about Diego Godin's transfer

Atletico Madrid's head coach Diego Simeone said he regretted the way he celebrated his team's first goal <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-won-five-champions-leagues-and-these-guys-zero-says-ronaldo-after-defeat-to-atletico-madrid-198786">against Juventus</a> in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16.&nbsp;

While addressing a press conference, Simeone said, "Before starting, you know I never search for excuses. I want to apologise once again, like I did after the game to the people who were offended."&nbsp;

The first goal was netted by Uruguayan defender Jose Gimenez&nbsp;in the match that Atletico Madrid won 2-0 against the Italian side.&nbsp;

Atletico's Argentine coach Simeone reacted to the goal&nbsp;by making an obscene gesture. He grabbed his crotch.&nbsp;

"It was obviously an expression, a bad expression, of what I felt for my players. I say this in order to close the subject before you ask me what I think about it," Simeone added.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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“VAR deez nuts” 
-diego simeone <a href="https://t.co/cQnQE3wOCh">pic.twitter.com/cQnQE3wOCh</a>
— justin block (has flipped) (@JBlock49) <a href="https://twitter.com/JBlock49/status/1098337393537617921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Atletico, meanwhile, was unable to hoist the title of Europe's elite club tournament, despite reaching the final three times, including twice under Simeone.

Atletico lost in the 2013/2014 and 2015/2016 Champions League finals against Madrid, which was led then by Ronaldo.&nbsp;

Atletico Madrid's head coach Diego Simeone said he regretted the way he celebrated his team's first goal against Juventus in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16.

Atletico Madrid's head coach Diego Simeone said he regretted the way he celebrated his team's first goal against Juventus in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. While addressing a press conference, Simeone said, "Before starting, you know I never search for excuses. I want to apologise once again, like I did after the game to the people who were offended." The first goal was netted by Uruguayan defender Jose Gimenez in the match that Atletico Madrid won 2-0 against the Italian side. Atletico's Argentine coach Simeone reacted to the goal by making an obscene gesture. He grabbed his crotch. "It was obviously an expression, a bad expression, of what I felt for my players. I say this in order to close the subject before you ask me what I think about it," Simeone added. Watch the video: “VAR deez nuts” -diego simeone pic.twitter.com/cQnQE3wOCh — justin block (has flipped) (@JBlock49) February 20, 2019 × Atletico, meanwhile, was unable to hoist the title of Europe's elite club tournament, despite reaching the final three times, including twice under Simeone. Atletico lost in the 2013/2014 and 2015/2016 Champions League finals against Madrid, which was led then by Ronaldo.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone apologises for obscene gesture in UCL clash against Juventus

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield.&nbsp;

As per a report by BBC, several watches, mobile phones and car keys were missing.&nbsp;

Liverpool and German champions Bayern drew 0-0.

It was not the first time Mane's house was targeted since he moved to Liverpool, with the 26-year-old also burgled during a home Champions League game against Slovenian side Maribor in November 2017.

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield.

A robbery took place at Senegal striker Sadio Mane's house while he was playing for Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Bayern Munich at Anfield. As per a report by BBC, several watches, mobile phones and car keys were missing. Liverpool and German champions Bayern drew 0-0. It was not the first time Mane's house was targeted since he moved to Liverpool, with the 26-year-old also burgled during a home Champions League game against Slovenian side Maribor in November 2017.

Sadio Mane's house robbed during Champions League match

Ten-man Manchester City staged a dramatic comeback with late goals from Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling securing them a 3-2 win at Schalke 04 in their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeone-outsmarts-shell-shocked-juve-with-triple-change-198668">Champions League Round of 16</a> first leg on Wednesday that put the English side in the driving seat.

Substitute Sane scored against his former club with a sensational free kick in the 86th and Sterling grabbed a 90th minute winner after Nabil Bentaleb converted two spot kicks in the 38th and 45th minutes in Schalke's own comeback.

Sergio Aguero had given City the lead in the 18th and the English champions were left with 10 men in the 68th minute when Nicolas Otamendi was sent off following a second booking.

City, who have conceded at least two goals in six of their seven games in the Champions League knockout stages under Pep Guardiola, will also be without yellow-carded Fernandinho for the return leg in Manchester on March 12.

"We know that we will get our scoring chances and most of the times we use them,," scorer Leroy Sane, a product of Schalke's youth academies, told reporters.

"I was a bit lucky that the goal goes in from that position. We did not find it easy to settle in the game and we struggled to find spaces."

Argentine Aguero, who netted two hat-tricks in his previous three Premier League games, scored with a simple tap-in after a pass from keeper Ralf Faehrmann was intercepted.

City completely overran the Germans at the start but instead of scoring again, they inexplicably fell back, allowing Schalke to come forward.

The Royal Blues were rewarded when a handball earned Otamendi a booking and the hosts a spot kick that Algeria international Bentaleb converted after the use of the video assistant referee (VAR).

Schalke then went ahead seven minutes later after earning another penalty when Fernandinho clumsily brought down Schalke's Salif Sane.

Bentaleb again stepped up and scored his second goal of the evening despite keeper Ederson getting his hands on the ball.

With coach Guardiola growing increasingly frustrated, the visitors tried for an early goal after the break but this time came up against an organised Schalke backline.

To make matters worse for City, Otamendi was sent off with a second booking in the 68th to take any pace left out of City's game before Leroy Sane's missile saved the day for the English side.

Sterling then slipped into the box late in the game to grab victory with a dramatic winner.

"It is extremely bitter and it hurts," said Schalke midfielder Daniel Caligiuri. "With an extra player we should have controlled the ball and made it 3-1. We should have solved this situation better."

Ten-man Manchester City staged a dramatic comeback with late goals from Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling securing them a 3-2 win at Schalke 04 in their Champions League Round of 16 first leg on Wednesday that put the English side in the driving seat.

Ten-man Manchester City staged a dramatic comeback with late goals from Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling securing them a 3-2 win at Schalke 04 in their Champions League Round of 16 first leg on Wednesday that put the English side in the driving seat. Substitute Sane scored against his former club with a sensational free kick in the 86th and Sterling grabbed a 90th minute winner after Nabil Bentaleb converted two spot kicks in the 38th and 45th minutes in Schalke's own comeback. Sergio Aguero had given City the lead in the 18th and the English champions were left with 10 men in the 68th minute when Nicolas Otamendi was sent off following a second booking. City, who have conceded at least two goals in six of their seven games in the Champions League knockout stages under Pep Guardiola, will also be without yellow-carded Fernandinho for the return leg in Manchester on March 12. "We know that we will get our scoring chances and most of the times we use them,," scorer Leroy Sane, a product of Schalke's youth academies, told reporters. "I was a bit lucky that the goal goes in from that position. We did not find it easy to settle in the game and we struggled to find spaces." Argentine Aguero, who netted two hat-tricks in his previous three Premier League games, scored with a simple tap-in after a pass from keeper Ralf Faehrmann was intercepted. City completely overran the Germans at the start but instead of scoring again, they inexplicably fell back, allowing Schalke to come forward. The Royal Blues were rewarded when a handball earned Otamendi a booking and the hosts a spot kick that Algeria international Bentaleb converted after the use of the video assistant referee (VAR). Schalke then went ahead seven minutes later after earning another penalty when Fernandinho clumsily brought down Schalke's Salif Sane. Bentaleb again stepped up and scored his second goal of the evening despite keeper Ederson getting his hands on the ball. With coach Guardiola growing increasingly frustrated, the visitors tried for an early goal after the break but this time came up against an organised Schalke backline. To make matters worse for City, Otamendi was sent off with a second booking in the 68th to take any pace left out of City's game before Leroy Sane's missile saved the day for the English side. Sterling then slipped into the box late in the game to grab victory with a dramatic winner. "It is extremely bitter and it hurts," said Schalke midfielder Daniel Caligiuri. "With an extra player we should have controlled the ball and made it 3-1. We should have solved this situation better."

Champions League: Late goals give Manchester City 3-2 win at Schalke

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is renowned for his wild touchline antics but a shrewd tactical move with a triple substitution swung Wednesday's Champions League game against Juventus firmly his side's way.

With the last-16 first leg delicately poised and goalless as the hour mark approached, the Argentine introduced forwards Angel Correa, Alvaro Morata and Thomas Lemar, and the Spanish side went on to win 2-0.

Morata had a goal ruled out to the fury of the home supporters for a push on Giorgio Chiellini but a breakthrough finally came when defender Jose Gimenez scored after a knockdown by Morata from a corner whipped in by Lemar.

Diego Godin doubled Atletico's lead following a well-worked free kick, giving Simeone's side a huge advantage over the runaway Serie A leaders ahead of the return leg in Turin next month.

"They all knew about the substitution, I called Correa, Lemar and Morata together, and Koke and (Diego) Costa knew they were not able to play 90 minutes," Simeone told a news conference.

"They all played brilliantly after coming on and played as a team. Doing what we have done over these years is not easy, and today we did it again."

Simeone still made headlines for his wild behaviour on the touchline, however, putting his hands on his trousers in a provocative celebration after Gimenez had broken the deadlock.

"It means we are brave," he said. "You have to be brave to start Costa and Koke after they hadn't played for over a month, and that's what I did.

"I feel so great because of these players. They represent the true meaning of Atletico. This is what we are and we aren't going to change. It's our style."

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri criticised his side for switching off in the closing stages and for not showing patience.

"Atleti came out much more aggressively with set-pieces and caught us by surprise. We knew it would be tough, that Atletico force you to play badly, to play slowly, they have been playing this way for eight years," he said.

"Atletico can play for 85 minutes defending and playing long balls and we fell asleep and were second best. If anyone came here wanting to enjoy themselves they picked the wrong night."

Juventus defender Alex Sandro will be suspended from the second leg in Turin after getting a yellow card, while Atletico will be without Costa and Thomas Partey through suspension.

"There will be great disappointment after this result but we can turn the tie around," Allegri added.

"It will not be easy, we will need a great performance but it can be done and we must believe in ourselves."

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is renowned for his wild touchline antics but a shrewd tactical move with a triple substitution swung Wednesday's Champions League game against Juventus firmly his side's way.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is renowned for his wild touchline antics but a shrewd tactical move with a triple substitution swung Wednesday's Champions League game against Juventus firmly his side's way. With the last-16 first leg delicately poised and goalless as the hour mark approached, the Argentine introduced forwards Angel Correa, Alvaro Morata and Thomas Lemar, and the Spanish side went on to win 2-0. Morata had a goal ruled out to the fury of the home supporters for a push on Giorgio Chiellini but a breakthrough finally came when defender Jose Gimenez scored after a knockdown by Morata from a corner whipped in by Lemar. Diego Godin doubled Atletico's lead following a well-worked free kick, giving Simeone's side a huge advantage over the runaway Serie A leaders ahead of the return leg in Turin next month. "They all knew about the substitution, I called Correa, Lemar and Morata together, and Koke and (Diego) Costa knew they were not able to play 90 minutes," Simeone told a news conference. "They all played brilliantly after coming on and played as a team. Doing what we have done over these years is not easy, and today we did it again." Simeone still made headlines for his wild behaviour on the touchline, however, putting his hands on his trousers in a provocative celebration after Gimenez had broken the deadlock. "It means we are brave," he said. "You have to be brave to start Costa and Koke after they hadn't played for over a month, and that's what I did. "I feel so great because of these players. They represent the true meaning of Atletico. This is what we are and we aren't going to change. It's our style." Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri criticised his side for switching off in the closing stages and for not showing patience. "Atleti came out much more aggressively with set-pieces and caught us by surprise. We knew it would be tough, that Atletico force you to play badly, to play slowly, they have been playing this way for eight years," he said. "Atletico can play for 85 minutes defending and playing long balls and we fell asleep and were second best. If anyone came here wanting to enjoy themselves they picked the wrong night." Juventus defender Alex Sandro will be suspended from the second leg in Turin after getting a yellow card, while Atletico will be without Costa and Thomas Partey through suspension. "There will be great disappointment after this result but we can turn the tie around," Allegri added. "It will not be easy, we will need a great performance but it can be done and we must believe in ourselves."

Champions League: Diego Simeone outsmarts shell-shocked Juventus with triple change

Cristiano Ronaldo was singled out by Atletico Madrid fans on Wednesday as Juventus lost 2-0 in the Champions League last 16 but the former Real Madrid forward was quick to point out his stellar record in the competition.

"I won five Champions Leagues and these guys zero," Ronaldo told reporters after the game, holding up his hand in the shape of a 'zero' to drive home his point.

The Portuguese forward was jeered throughout the match at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, where Atletico got late goals from Uruguayan defenders Jose Gimenez and Diego Godin to take a vital lead into the return leg on March 12.

He responded to the taunts by holding up five fingers to indicate the number of times he had won the competition, four times with arch-rivals Real and once with Manchester United.

Atletico have reached the final of Europe's elite club competition three times but never lifted the trophy.

They lost to Ronaldo's Real Madrid in 2014 and 2016.

Cristiano Ronaldo was singled out by Atletico Madrid fans on Wednesday as Juventus lost 2-0 in the Champions League last 16 but the former Real Madrid forward was quick to point out his stellar record in the competition.

Cristiano Ronaldo was singled out by Atletico Madrid fans on Wednesday as Juventus lost 2-0 in the Champions League last 16 but the former Real Madrid forward was quick to point out his stellar record in the competition. "I won five Champions Leagues and these guys zero," Ronaldo told reporters after the game, holding up his hand in the shape of a 'zero' to drive home his point. The Portuguese forward was jeered throughout the match at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, where Atletico got late goals from Uruguayan defenders Jose Gimenez and Diego Godin to take a vital lead into the return leg on March 12. He responded to the taunts by holding up five fingers to indicate the number of times he had won the competition, four times with arch-rivals Real and once with Manchester United. Atletico have reached the final of Europe's elite club competition three times but never lifted the trophy. They lost to Ronaldo's Real Madrid in 2014 and 2016.

'I have won five Champions Leagues and these guys zero', says Ronaldo after defeat to Atletico Madrid

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said Cristiano Ronaldo boosts his side's chances in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at Atletico Madrid but his presence alone would not guarantee their progress in the competition.

The Portuguese forward, a five-times Champions League winner and the competition's all-time top scorer, has scored 21 goals since moving from Real Madrid and will be reacquainted with one of his favourite victims at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Ronaldo, 34, has scored 22 goals against Atletico, including a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final first leg in 2017, a penalty in a 4-1 win in the 2014 final, as well as converting the final spot-kick in a shootout win in the 2016 final.

"We are not obliged to win just because we have Cristiano, we must also work hard all over the pitch and have our share of luck, which is also important," Allegri told a news conference.

"Having him is an advantage, but it's not all about Ronaldo. We have to remember we are facing a team who are very good in defence and very dangerous from set pieces and have done very well in Europe in recent years."

Allegri, whose side are top of Serie A and are unbeaten in the league, said midfielder Sami Khedira had stayed in Turin for medical reasons, with the club later releasing a statement saying he had an irregular heartbeat.

Atletico coach Diego Simeone said he would monitor influential midfielder Koke's fitness before deciding whether he would start against Juventus, adding that Diego Costa was not ready to play the whole game.

Spain international Koke was given the all-clear to play in Wednesday's game, after almost a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, along with Costa, who has only just returned from over two months out following foot surgery.

"We will have to see how he (Koke) feels tomorrow but he's enthusiastic about playing and full of hope," Simeone said.

"I feel very excited about being in the Champions League again, in such a great competition and against such a powerful team. After not making it (to the knockout stages) last year, we want to make it to the next round to grow as a team and a club."

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said Cristiano Ronaldo boosts his side's chances in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at Atletico Madrid but his presence alone would not guarantee their progress in the competition.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri has said Cristiano Ronaldo boosts his side's chances in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at Atletico Madrid but his presence alone would not guarantee their progress in the competition. The Portuguese forward, a five-times Champions League winner and the competition's all-time top scorer, has scored 21 goals since moving from Real Madrid and will be reacquainted with one of his favourite victims at the Wanda Metropolitano. Ronaldo, 34, has scored 22 goals against Atletico, including a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final first leg in 2017, a penalty in a 4-1 win in the 2014 final, as well as converting the final spot-kick in a shootout win in the 2016 final. "We are not obliged to win just because we have Cristiano, we must also work hard all over the pitch and have our share of luck, which is also important," Allegri told a news conference. "Having him is an advantage, but it's not all about Ronaldo. We have to remember we are facing a team who are very good in defence and very dangerous from set pieces and have done very well in Europe in recent years." Allegri, whose side are top of Serie A and are unbeaten in the league, said midfielder Sami Khedira had stayed in Turin for medical reasons, with the club later releasing a statement saying he had an irregular heartbeat. Atletico coach Diego Simeone said he would monitor influential midfielder Koke's fitness before deciding whether he would start against Juventus, adding that Diego Costa was not ready to play the whole game. Spain international Koke was given the all-clear to play in Wednesday's game, after almost a month on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, along with Costa, who has only just returned from over two months out following foot surgery. "We will have to see how he (Koke) feels tomorrow but he's enthusiastic about playing and full of hope," Simeone said. "I feel very excited about being in the Champions League again, in such a great competition and against such a powerful team. After not making it (to the knockout stages) last year, we want to make it to the next round to grow as a team and a club."

Ronaldo boosts Juventus hopes but is not everything, says coach Allegri

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/profligate-barca-leave-champions-league-progress-up-in-the-air-198410">Champions League football</a> with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception.

But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations.

The goalless draw in their last-16 first leg tie was by no means dull and neither side could be accused of negativity but there was certainly a little too much respect shown and as a result a conservatism that left the crowd wanting more.

It was also a case of two managers and teams which knew exactly the dangers that faced them.

Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp emerged as a manager in the Bundesliga and faced many battles with Bayern in his time at Borussia Dortmund. He knew his opponent inside out.

Likewise Bayern boss Niko Kovac will have been very familiar with Klopp's approach and the dangers of being swept aside in a more open game.

Familiarity bred caution and the result was one which left Kovac sounding the more satisfied of the pair.

"It is half full, half empty, I can’t remember that many clubs have not lost and not conceded at Anfield, they are a sensationally good team," said the Croatian.

"My team in defence and as a whole kept everything tight at the back and played at a high level, tactically and mentally. We didn’t score but we didn’t let one in.

"We are at home now, it is an advantage and we will play in front of 75,000. We know if we concede, we have to win. At this level, very small differences can decide everything so we will wait and see."

"I am the last person to start celebrating. We are modest, focused and have to give 100 percent in the next game," added Kovac.

Klopp was more critical but equally glad to still be in the contest when it resumes in three weeks at Bayern's Allianz Arena.

"We can play better, we should play better. But it was like this," he said.

"The tie is not over. We had to create a basis which we can use in the second leg. From a result point of view it's absolutely OK.

"It's not a dream result but it's a good one and we can work with that."

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of Champions League football with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception. But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations.

Perhaps we have been spoilt in recent seasons of Champions League football with high-scoring, free-flowing games becoming the norm rather than the exception. But at Anfield on Tuesday, Liverpool and Bayern Munich, in a fixture that would have generated excited anticipation in any decade from the 1970s onwards, were unable to deliver on the high expectations. The goalless draw in their last-16 first leg tie was by no means dull and neither side could be accused of negativity but there was certainly a little too much respect shown and as a result a conservatism that left the crowd wanting more. It was also a case of two managers and teams which knew exactly the dangers that faced them. Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp emerged as a manager in the Bundesliga and faced many battles with Bayern in his time at Borussia Dortmund. He knew his opponent inside out. Likewise Bayern boss Niko Kovac will have been very familiar with Klopp's approach and the dangers of being swept aside in a more open game. Familiarity bred caution and the result was one which left Kovac sounding the more satisfied of the pair. "It is half full, half empty, I can’t remember that many clubs have not lost and not conceded at Anfield, they are a sensationally good team," said the Croatian. "My team in defence and as a whole kept everything tight at the back and played at a high level, tactically and mentally. We didn’t score but we didn’t let one in. "We are at home now, it is an advantage and we will play in front of 75,000. We know if we concede, we have to win. At this level, very small differences can decide everything so we will wait and see." "I am the last person to start celebrating. We are modest, focused and have to give 100 percent in the next game," added Kovac. Klopp was more critical but equally glad to still be in the contest when it resumes in three weeks at Bayern's Allianz Arena. "We can play better, we should play better. But it was like this," he said. "The tie is not over. We had to create a basis which we can use in the second leg. From a result point of view it's absolutely OK. "It's not a dream result but it's a good one and we can work with that."

Champions League: Familiarity breeds caution; Bayern, Liverpool play out goalless draw

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caution-returns-as-bayern-frustrate-liverpool-198412">Champions League last-16</a> on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium.

Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar.

"We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet.

"We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)."

The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League.

"Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night.

"We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs."

Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal.

"We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio.

OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer.

"We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore.

"We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg. Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium. Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar. "We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet. "We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)." The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League. "Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night. "We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs." Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal. "We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio. OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer. "We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore. "We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Profligate Barca leave Champions League progress up in the air 

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club.

Lyon handed PSG their only league defeat a couple of weeks ago and claimed a 2-1 win at Manchester City in the group phase, showing they have a capacity to raise their level when it matters.

Barca, who laboured to a 1-0 win against Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, will not take anything for granted in the last-16 first leg on Tuesday.

"I have a lot of respect for Lyon, they beat PSG recently," midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters.

"They have very fast players in the midfield and in attack, they try to create space. We have to close those spaces."

Coach Ernesto Valverde noted OL were undefeated in the competition.

"It is going to be a big challenge for us," Valverde said. "But we're hungry and ready for this game."

As always in the knockout stage, scoring an away goal can be paramount, and there are concerns that Barca have been less of an attacking side lately.

"It is true that scoring an away goal is important because if you don't, it leaves everything up in the air for the second leg," said Valverde.

"Everybody has their opinion but the question is surprising. Maybe we have not created that many chance but we always attack.

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club.

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club. Lyon handed PSG their only league defeat a couple of weeks ago and claimed a 2-1 win at Manchester City in the group phase, showing they have a capacity to raise their level when it matters. Barca, who laboured to a 1-0 win against Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, will not take anything for granted in the last-16 first leg on Tuesday. "I have a lot of respect for Lyon, they beat PSG recently," midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters. "They have very fast players in the midfield and in attack, they try to create space. We have to close those spaces." Coach Ernesto Valverde noted OL were undefeated in the competition. "It is going to be a big challenge for us," Valverde said. "But we're hungry and ready for this game." As always in the knockout stage, scoring an away goal can be paramount, and there are concerns that Barca have been less of an attacking side lately. "It is true that scoring an away goal is important because if you don't, it leaves everything up in the air for the second leg," said Valverde. "Everybody has their opinion but the question is surprising. Maybe we have not created that many chance but we always attack.

Barca wary of Lyon's capacity to raise their level

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele.

"Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday.

"We will have to reduce Messi's influence."

Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium.

"I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said.

"We are confident in the qualities of our squad."

Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday.

Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday. Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele. "Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday. "We will have to reduce Messi's influence." Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium. "I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said. "We are confident in the qualities of our squad." Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele. The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday. Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Lyon hoping to limit Lionel Messi's influence

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais.

Ernesto Valverde's side fly to France after an uninspiring 1-0 win at home to struggling Real Valladolid on Saturday which consolidated their lead at the top of La Liga but left plenty of doubts about their capabilities of winning Europe's top prize.

The drab victory over Valladolid, in which Lionel Messi scored a penalty and missed one, followed a goalless stalemate at Athletic Bilbao, a 2-2 draw with Valencia and a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in a Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.

Coach Ernesto Valverde has played down the significance of his side's recent slack displays.

"Sometimes you cannot be brilliant in every game, but I think the team is ready to play at its very best," he said.

Defender Gerard Pique, however, was more scathing of Barca's performance and warned of the potential consequences of their lacklustre displays.

"We were not the Barca we wanted to be, the result was good, the sensations were not," he said.

"We must improve on Tuesday or we will suffer a lot. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate the play and possession or create chances, we are a weaker team."

HUMILIATING ELIMINATION

Barca have fallen at the quarter-final stage of the Champions League each year since last winning it in 2015, suffering a particularly humiliating elimination to AS Roma last season after taking a 4-1 lead in the first leg of the tie.

They have looked on enviously as Real Madrid have won the last three editions of the big eared trophy, swelling their total number of European Cups to 13, which makes Barca's five look measly by comparison.

Despite winning three of the last four La Liga titles and collecting the Copa del Rey four years in a row, there is a widespread feeling that Barca should have fared better on the continent, especially while Messi has been at his peak.

The Argentine seems to think so too - in his first speech as captain back in August, he pledged to do "everything possible to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Nou Camp".

For that ambition to be realised, Barca must improve on a dismal away record which has seen them win only one of their last six visits in the Champions League knockout rounds, scoring three goals while conceding 13.

Barca will be boosted by the return of France's World Cup winning defender Samuel Umtiti after nearly three months out with a knee problem, while defender Thomas Vermaelen and midfielder Arthur Melo are injured.

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais.

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais. Ernesto Valverde's side fly to France after an uninspiring 1-0 win at home to struggling Real Valladolid on Saturday which consolidated their lead at the top of La Liga but left plenty of doubts about their capabilities of winning Europe's top prize. The drab victory over Valladolid, in which Lionel Messi scored a penalty and missed one, followed a goalless stalemate at Athletic Bilbao, a 2-2 draw with Valencia and a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in a Copa del Rey semi-final first leg. Coach Ernesto Valverde has played down the significance of his side's recent slack displays. "Sometimes you cannot be brilliant in every game, but I think the team is ready to play at its very best," he said. Defender Gerard Pique, however, was more scathing of Barca's performance and warned of the potential consequences of their lacklustre displays. "We were not the Barca we wanted to be, the result was good, the sensations were not," he said. "We must improve on Tuesday or we will suffer a lot. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate the play and possession or create chances, we are a weaker team." HUMILIATING ELIMINATION Barca have fallen at the quarter-final stage of the Champions League each year since last winning it in 2015, suffering a particularly humiliating elimination to AS Roma last season after taking a 4-1 lead in the first leg of the tie. They have looked on enviously as Real Madrid have won the last three editions of the big eared trophy, swelling their total number of European Cups to 13, which makes Barca's five look measly by comparison. Despite winning three of the last four La Liga titles and collecting the Copa del Rey four years in a row, there is a widespread feeling that Barca should have fared better on the continent, especially while Messi has been at his peak. The Argentine seems to think so too - in his first speech as captain back in August, he pledged to do "everything possible to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Nou Camp". For that ambition to be realised, Barca must improve on a dismal away record which has seen them win only one of their last six visits in the Champions League knockout rounds, scoring three goals while conceding 13. Barca will be boosted by the return of France's World Cup winning defender Samuel Umtiti after nearly three months out with a knee problem, while defender Thomas Vermaelen and midfielder Arthur Melo are injured.

Barcelona lack sparkle ahead of crucial Champions League mission in Lyon

Cristiano Ronaldo set up Paulo Dybala to score early and added one himself with defender Leonardo Bonucci also on target as&nbsp;Juventussurged 14 points clear in Serie A on Friday with a 3-0 win over lowly Frosinone.

Coach Massimiliano Allegri was taking no chances, even against a side sitting second bottom of the table, ahead of next week's Champions League last 16, first-leg tie at Atletico Madrid.

Dybala returned to the front line alongside Ronaldo and Mario Mandzukic with key defenders Bonnucci and Giorgio Chiellini both back from injury.

"The team is growing in terms of fitness, it's a decisive moment for the season," said Allegri.

Juventus&nbsp;are building towards next week's game in Madrid and a top-of-the-table clash against Napoli in the San Paolo Stadium on March 3.

"We struggled a bit after the winter break but now we are ready to face this important moment of the season both in the championship and the Champions League," added Allegri.

Juventus&nbsp;remain unbeaten this season but the reigning seven-time league champions had been held 3-3 by Parma two weeks ago.

Bonucci returned after three weeks out with an ankle injury along with captain Chiellini who limped off during their shock Coppa Italia exit on January 30.

Ronaldo set up Dybala to rifle in with his left foot after just six minutes in Turin as Argentina forward, who has been overshadowed since the arrival of the former Real Madrid player, scored his first league goal since November 3.&nbsp;

Ten minutes later Bonucci broke through after a desperate goalmouth scramble.

Frosinone goalkeeper Marco Sportiello denied Mandzukic's diving header with Bonucci in place to turn the rebound into the goal.

Ronaldo slotted in his 19th Serie A goal and 21st in all competitions&nbsp;on 62 minutes with Rodrigo Bentancur crossing for Mandzukic who provided the assist for the Portuguese striker.

Ronaldo was then replaced by Federico Bernardeschi with the tie against Atletico in mind, with Sportiello denying&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;the fourth goalkeeping out a powerful Bernardeschi free kick.

"I'm happy for Paulo, he scored a good goal and that's what strikers live for," said Allegri.

"The game against Atletico Madrid will be very different. It's crucial that we get a goal there, otherwise, qualification would be rather difficult to achieve.

"But this team is growing, we are even better than the first weeks (of the season)."

AC Milan, in fourth, travel to Atalanta, one place below in fifth, on Saturday in a battle for Champions League football next season.

Napoli host Torino on Sunday, with Inter Milan, in third, hosting ninth-placed Sampdoria.

Roma play relegation-threatened Bologna on Monday after winning their Champions League last 16, first-leg tie against Porto 2-1.

Cristiano Ronaldo set up Paulo Dybala to score early and added one himself with defender Leonardo Bonucci also on target as Juventussurged 14 points clear in Serie A on Friday with a 3-0 win over lowly Frosinone.

Cristiano Ronaldo set up Paulo Dybala to score early and added one himself with defender Leonardo Bonucci also on target as Juventussurged 14 points clear in Serie A on Friday with a 3-0 win over lowly Frosinone. Coach Massimiliano Allegri was taking no chances, even against a side sitting second bottom of the table, ahead of next week's Champions League last 16, first-leg tie at Atletico Madrid. Dybala returned to the front line alongside Ronaldo and Mario Mandzukic with key defenders Bonnucci and Giorgio Chiellini both back from injury. "The team is growing in terms of fitness, it's a decisive moment for the season," said Allegri. Juventus are building towards next week's game in Madrid and a top-of-the-table clash against Napoli in the San Paolo Stadium on March 3. "We struggled a bit after the winter break but now we are ready to face this important moment of the season both in the championship and the Champions League," added Allegri. Juventus remain unbeaten this season but the reigning seven-time league champions had been held 3-3 by Parma two weeks ago. Bonucci returned after three weeks out with an ankle injury along with captain Chiellini who limped off during their shock Coppa Italia exit on January 30. Ronaldo set up Dybala to rifle in with his left foot after just six minutes in Turin as Argentina forward, who has been overshadowed since the arrival of the former Real Madrid player, scored his first league goal since November 3. Ten minutes later Bonucci broke through after a desperate goalmouth scramble. Frosinone goalkeeper Marco Sportiello denied Mandzukic's diving header with Bonucci in place to turn the rebound into the goal. Ronaldo slotted in his 19th Serie A goal and 21st in all competitions on 62 minutes with Rodrigo Bentancur crossing for Mandzukic who provided the assist for the Portuguese striker. Ronaldo was then replaced by Federico Bernardeschi with the tie against Atletico in mind, with Sportiello denying Juventus the fourth goalkeeping out a powerful Bernardeschi free kick. "I'm happy for Paulo, he scored a good goal and that's what strikers live for," said Allegri. "The game against Atletico Madrid will be very different. It's crucial that we get a goal there, otherwise, qualification would be rather difficult to achieve. "But this team is growing, we are even better than the first weeks (of the season)." AC Milan, in fourth, travel to Atalanta, one place below in fifth, on Saturday in a battle for Champions League football next season. Napoli host Torino on Sunday, with Inter Milan, in third, hosting ninth-placed Sampdoria. Roma play relegation-threatened Bologna on Monday after winning their Champions League last 16, first-leg tie against Porto 2-1.

Cristiano Ronaldo on target as Juventus cruise before Atletico showdown

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/vertonghen-shines-as-tottenham-cruise-past-dortmund-3-0-197303">convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund</a> in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham stunned the Germans with a goal two minutes after halftime from Korean forward Son Heung-min and struck twice late in the game through Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen, who was deployed in an unusual left wing back role, and substitute Fernando Llorente.

"It is a massive, massive performance and effort from my players," Pochettino told reporters.

"My players are heroes. They deserve a lot of praise because their effort this season is amazing.

"It is only the first half of the tie -- 3-0 is a very good result, but we must go to Dortmund with the idea of winning. It is a very good result but there is a lot of work to do."

The second leg is in Germany on March 5.

Tottenham were on the backfoot in the first half against the Bundesliga leaders, who had conceded only two goals in the entire group stage and had the better scoring chances.

The Argentine coach said he had to talk to his players at halftime to discuss ways of slowing their opponents down, with Dortmund's Jadon Sancho wreaking havoc down the wing.

"I would not say the team were nervous but the second half was much better. At halftime we showed them a few situations that could have been different," Pochettino said.

"We tried to help the team make the right decisions and perform in the best way. You need some luck, too. For me it is only the first leg, the first half but it is a very good result."

The result equalled Dortmund's heaviest away defeat in the Champions League.

The Germans also suffered a morale-sapping 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim last week in the Bundesliga after leading 3-0 and were also eliminated from the German Cup by Werder Bremen on penalties.

"We played well in the first half, had a couple of chances, We defended really well and played well going forward," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said.

"In the start of the second half we gave it away. It was a gift. After that we tried to play a bit too hastily and it was very, very difficult for us. After the second goal it was harder to hold on to the ball and create chances."

For Favre and his players it is now back to the drawing board.

"There are periods of a season when things aren't top, top, top. It is what it is. We need to analyse and work hard to avoid and correct these errors."

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino. Tottenham stunned the Germans with a goal two minutes after halftime from Korean forward Son Heung-min and struck twice late in the game through Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen, who was deployed in an unusual left wing back role, and substitute Fernando Llorente. "It is a massive, massive performance and effort from my players," Pochettino told reporters. "My players are heroes. They deserve a lot of praise because their effort this season is amazing. "It is only the first half of the tie -- 3-0 is a very good result, but we must go to Dortmund with the idea of winning. It is a very good result but there is a lot of work to do." The second leg is in Germany on March 5. Tottenham were on the backfoot in the first half against the Bundesliga leaders, who had conceded only two goals in the entire group stage and had the better scoring chances. The Argentine coach said he had to talk to his players at halftime to discuss ways of slowing their opponents down, with Dortmund's Jadon Sancho wreaking havoc down the wing. "I would not say the team were nervous but the second half was much better. At halftime we showed them a few situations that could have been different," Pochettino said. "We tried to help the team make the right decisions and perform in the best way. You need some luck, too. For me it is only the first leg, the first half but it is a very good result." The result equalled Dortmund's heaviest away defeat in the Champions League. The Germans also suffered a morale-sapping 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim last week in the Bundesliga after leading 3-0 and were also eliminated from the German Cup by Werder Bremen on penalties. "We played well in the first half, had a couple of chances, We defended really well and played well going forward," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said. "In the start of the second half we gave it away. It was a gift. After that we tried to play a bit too hastily and it was very, very difficult for us. After the second goal it was harder to hold on to the ball and create chances." For Favre and his players it is now back to the drawing board. "There are periods of a season when things aren't top, top, top. It is what it is. We need to analyse and work hard to avoid and correct these errors."

Still work to do despite 3-0 win, says Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie.

Tottenham looked unfazed by the absence of injured captain Harry Kane and Dele Alli, scoring all three goals in a strong second half to take control of the tie and leave the Germans on the brink of a European exit.

Belgian Vertonghen notched his first goal in the Champions League with a well-timed volley in the 83rd minute after he had set up forward Son for a 47th minute lead. Substitute Fernando Llorente grabbed their third in the 86th, two minutes after coming on.

That was Son's ninth goal against Dortmund in 11 matches, with the South Korean, who played in the Bundesliga from 2010-15, having also scored twice in the competition's group stage last season.

"It was a fantastic second half," Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "The first half was difficult. It was a difficult game from the beginning.

"In the first half we played a little - not nervously - but not with the confidence. The second half was very, very good.

"There is still work to do."

Bundesliga leaders Dortmund, eliminated from the German Cup last week, were nowhere to be seen in the second half, with speedy teenager Jadon Sancho given no space to operate after the break. The return leg is on March 5.

"The first goal rattled us," Dortmund's Mario Goetze told reporters. "And then the double strike towards the end killed us off. We were good in the first half but this is very bitter. We now need to get back on track."

Before Wednesday, Tottenham had never won a home match in the knockout stage of the competition and Lucas Moura came close with a fine shot in the seventh minute.

Dortmund, themselves missing injured captain Marco Reus and top striker Paco Alcacer, gradually took control and had the better chances in the first half with Christian Pulisic firing onto keeper Hugo Lloris and the Frenchman saving a point-blank header from Dan-Axel Zagadou.

But the hosts changed the course of the game two minutes after the restart, pouncing on a defensive error and with Vertonghen whipping in a cross for Son, who has kept on scoring in Kane's absence, to tap in.

Dortmund, who had conceded just two goals in the group stage, tried to recover but found no way past the disciplined Tottenham backline.

They also looked to be running out of steam when Tottenham scored twice late in the game.

Vertonghen timed his run to perfection in the 83rd to kill off the game and Llorente gave them a big advantage for the second leg.

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie.

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie. Tottenham looked unfazed by the absence of injured captain Harry Kane and Dele Alli, scoring all three goals in a strong second half to take control of the tie and leave the Germans on the brink of a European exit. Belgian Vertonghen notched his first goal in the Champions League with a well-timed volley in the 83rd minute after he had set up forward Son for a 47th minute lead. Substitute Fernando Llorente grabbed their third in the 86th, two minutes after coming on. That was Son's ninth goal against Dortmund in 11 matches, with the South Korean, who played in the Bundesliga from 2010-15, having also scored twice in the competition's group stage last season. "It was a fantastic second half," Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "The first half was difficult. It was a difficult game from the beginning. "In the first half we played a little - not nervously - but not with the confidence. The second half was very, very good. "There is still work to do." Bundesliga leaders Dortmund, eliminated from the German Cup last week, were nowhere to be seen in the second half, with speedy teenager Jadon Sancho given no space to operate after the break. The return leg is on March 5. "The first goal rattled us," Dortmund's Mario Goetze told reporters. "And then the double strike towards the end killed us off. We were good in the first half but this is very bitter. We now need to get back on track." Before Wednesday, Tottenham had never won a home match in the knockout stage of the competition and Lucas Moura came close with a fine shot in the seventh minute. Dortmund, themselves missing injured captain Marco Reus and top striker Paco Alcacer, gradually took control and had the better chances in the first half with Christian Pulisic firing onto keeper Hugo Lloris and the Frenchman saving a point-blank header from Dan-Axel Zagadou. But the hosts changed the course of the game two minutes after the restart, pouncing on a defensive error and with Vertonghen whipping in a cross for Son, who has kept on scoring in Kane's absence, to tap in. Dortmund, who had conceded just two goals in the group stage, tried to recover but found no way past the disciplined Tottenham backline. They also looked to be running out of steam when Tottenham scored twice late in the game. Vertonghen timed his run to perfection in the 83rd to kill off the game and Llorente gave them a big advantage for the second leg.

Champions League: Vertonghen shines as Tottenham cruise past Dortmund 3-0

Paris St Germain's 2-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday showed that the French champions may finally have found, under coach Thomas Tuchel, the heart and collective spirit they had been lacking in recent years.&nbsp;

Many predicted a defeat in the Champions League last-16 first leg by a resurgent United after forwards Neymar and Edinson Cavani were ruled out injured.&nbsp;

Instead, PSG rose up to the challenge and stepped onto the field a compact side showing no fear -- a sharp contrast to the team who blew a 4-0 lead over Barcelona to lose 6-1 at the same stage of the competition in 2017.&nbsp;

Marquinhos, who bossed the midfield alongside Marco Verratti, recalls a meeting with Tuchel which he believes was key to PSG's performance.&nbsp;

The German coach took over from Unai Emery last year as the Qatari-backed club look to shine on the continental stage after four consecutive eliminations in the quarter-finals followed by two successive last 16 exits.&nbsp;

"This meeting was very important," the Brazilian, who usually plays centre back, said.&nbsp;

"The coach gave us the strategy. He started with the defensive aspect, underlining the qualities of the opponents' attack and their speed on the break.&nbsp;

"He insisted on us not losing the ball too quickly after winning it back in midfield."&nbsp;

PSG stayed compact throughout, with Julian Draxler often dropping deep to strengthen the midfield.&nbsp;

"Defensively we were solid. We showed that with the right mindset we could do great things," captain Thiago Silva said.&nbsp;

Often criticised for missing the 'club culture' key to success in Europe, PSG entered the tie with confidence despite lacking two players who between them who have scored 30 goals in Ligue 1 and seven times in the Champions League.&nbsp;

"It is not just thanks to the coach," said Silva.&nbsp;

"It is also the whole staff who have been working to give us information on the other team. Everything the staff told us would happen on the pitch happened."&nbsp;

Even without Neymar and Cavani.&nbsp;

"They are world class players but we remain a world class team without them," added Draxler.&nbsp;

The Ligue 1 leaders, who have already almost secured the domestic title, now have three weeks to gear up for the second leg in Paris, where they will look to avoid a slip-up similar to the Nou Camp debacle.&nbsp;

"We should stop being scared," said forward Kylian Mbappe who scored PSG's second against United.&nbsp;

Paris St Germain's 2-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday showed that the French champions may finally have found, under coach Thomas Tuchel, the heart and collective spirit they had been lacking in recent years.

Paris St Germain's 2-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday showed that the French champions may finally have found, under coach Thomas Tuchel, the heart and collective spirit they had been lacking in recent years. Many predicted a defeat in the Champions League last-16 first leg by a resurgent United after forwards Neymar and Edinson Cavani were ruled out injured. Instead, PSG rose up to the challenge and stepped onto the field a compact side showing no fear -- a sharp contrast to the team who blew a 4-0 lead over Barcelona to lose 6-1 at the same stage of the competition in 2017. Marquinhos, who bossed the midfield alongside Marco Verratti, recalls a meeting with Tuchel which he believes was key to PSG's performance. The German coach took over from Unai Emery last year as the Qatari-backed club look to shine on the continental stage after four consecutive eliminations in the quarter-finals followed by two successive last 16 exits. "This meeting was very important," the Brazilian, who usually plays centre back, said. "The coach gave us the strategy. He started with the defensive aspect, underlining the qualities of the opponents' attack and their speed on the break. "He insisted on us not losing the ball too quickly after winning it back in midfield." PSG stayed compact throughout, with Julian Draxler often dropping deep to strengthen the midfield. "Defensively we were solid. We showed that with the right mindset we could do great things," captain Thiago Silva said. Often criticised for missing the 'club culture' key to success in Europe, PSG entered the tie with confidence despite lacking two players who between them who have scored 30 goals in Ligue 1 and seven times in the Champions League. "It is not just thanks to the coach," said Silva. "It is also the whole staff who have been working to give us information on the other team. Everything the staff told us would happen on the pitch happened." Even without Neymar and Cavani. "They are world class players but we remain a world class team without them," added Draxler. The Ligue 1 leaders, who have already almost secured the domestic title, now have three weeks to gear up for the second leg in Paris, where they will look to avoid a slip-up similar to the Nou Camp debacle. "We should stop being scared," said forward Kylian Mbappe who scored PSG's second against United.

Thomas Tuchel's PSG finally show guts and team spirit

The video assistant referee (VAR) made its UEFA Champions League debut on February 12 when the knock-out stages of the competition started.&nbsp;

For the first time, it was used in&nbsp;Wednesday's last 16&nbsp;game&nbsp;between&nbsp;Ajax and Real Madrid. In the match, substitute Marco Asensio scored a late winner as defending champion <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-edge-out-ajax-as-asensio-scores-late-winner-197252">Real beat Ajax 2-1 in Amsterdam</a>.&nbsp;

While Ajax were left to rue when&nbsp;defender Nicolas Tagliafico appeared to have headed the Dutch side ahead on 38 minutes, but referee Damir Skomina disallowed the goal after Dusan Tadic was shown to be offside on replays.&nbsp;

In the post-match press conference, Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag said that he did not see any problem with the disallowed goal.&nbsp;

"I saw the replays of the situation and I couldn't see the offside maybe from the other position (it was offside). Also, I didn't see the block on the goalkeeper."&nbsp;

Tadic was deemed to be interfering with Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after the Belgian spilled a header at a corner and Tagliafico nodded in the rebound.&nbsp;

"I don't think we had a lack of experience. It is more lack of effectiveness. I said it in my analysis that we have to improve," said ten Hag.&nbsp;

"Normally, you don't create so many chances against a top team like Madrid, but we did. But you have to be more ruthless, and that we can learn from Madrid. They created less chances and scored more goals," he added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
VAR has been widely used during last year's FIFA World Cup and now called upon in most of Europe's leading leagues.&nbsp;

It is making its Champions League debut after it was introduced for this season's knockout stages.&nbsp;

VAR was initially set to be rolled out in the Champions League from the start of next season, but the decision to bring forward its use follows lobbying from top European clubs.&nbsp;

The video assistant referee (VAR) made its UEFA Champions League debut on February 12 when the knock-out stages of the competition started. For the first time, it was used in Wednesday's last 16 game between Ajax and Real Madrid.

The video assistant referee (VAR) made its UEFA Champions League debut on February 12 when the knock-out stages of the competition started. For the first time, it was used in Wednesday's last 16 game between Ajax and Real Madrid. In the match, substitute Marco Asensio scored a late winner as defending champion Real beat Ajax 2-1 in Amsterdam. While Ajax were left to rue when defender Nicolas Tagliafico appeared to have headed the Dutch side ahead on 38 minutes, but referee Damir Skomina disallowed the goal after Dusan Tadic was shown to be offside on replays. In the post-match press conference, Ajax head coach Erik ten Hag said that he did not see any problem with the disallowed goal. "I saw the replays of the situation and I couldn't see the offside maybe from the other position (it was offside). Also, I didn't see the block on the goalkeeper." Tadic was deemed to be interfering with Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after the Belgian spilled a header at a corner and Tagliafico nodded in the rebound. "I don't think we had a lack of experience. It is more lack of effectiveness. I said it in my analysis that we have to improve," said ten Hag. "Normally, you don't create so many chances against a top team like Madrid, but we did. But you have to be more ruthless, and that we can learn from Madrid. They created less chances and scored more goals," he added. VAR has been widely used during last year's FIFA World Cup and now called upon in most of Europe's leading leagues. It is making its Champions League debut after it was introduced for this season's knockout stages. VAR was initially set to be rolled out in the Champions League from the start of next season, but the decision to bring forward its use follows lobbying from top European clubs.

I didn't see a problem with the disallowed goal: Ajax boss Erik ten Hag

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United.&nbsp;

Uruguay striker Cavani, who has scored 192 goals for PSG, sustained a hip muscle injury in Saturday’s 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux adding to the side’s injury woes ahead of the last-16 first leg.&nbsp;

PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury, leaving the French side with only Kylian Mbappe as a world class striking option. Fullback Thomas Meunier has also been ruled out.&nbsp;

"You cannot replace quality players like this, Neymar is one of the key, key players in Europe and we miss him a lot and now we miss a second key player with Edi," Tuchel told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;

However, he did not expect the French league leaders to change their style of play.&nbsp;

"We miss two key attacking players, but to change our identity for that?...I don't know if it's the moment. We are PSG, we are used to playing offensively and creating chances," he said.&nbsp;

Tuchel added that it was wrong to expect Kylian Mbappe to make up for the injured South American pair.&nbsp;

"It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel.&nbsp;

"I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United.

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United. Uruguay striker Cavani, who has scored 192 goals for PSG, sustained a hip muscle injury in Saturday’s 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux adding to the side’s injury woes ahead of the last-16 first leg. PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury, leaving the French side with only Kylian Mbappe as a world class striking option. Fullback Thomas Meunier has also been ruled out. "You cannot replace quality players like this, Neymar is one of the key, key players in Europe and we miss him a lot and now we miss a second key player with Edi," Tuchel told reporters on Monday. However, he did not expect the French league leaders to change their style of play. "We miss two key attacking players, but to change our identity for that?...I don't know if it's the moment. We are PSG, we are used to playing offensively and creating chances," he said. Tuchel added that it was wrong to expect Kylian Mbappe to make up for the injured South American pair. "It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel. "I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

Champions League: PSG confirm that Edinson Cavani out of Manchester United match

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Tuesday (February 12) that he believes his side can beat any team they face.

Spurs face German league leaders Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday, but despite injuries to Harry Kane and Deli Alli the Argentinian is confident his side can get a positive result.

Spurs have kept pace in the Premier League without Kane and Alli and currently lie in third place, five points behind league leaders Manchester City and second-placed Liverpool.

Pochettino's side looked to be heading out of the Champions League after taking just one point from their first three group stage games, however, wins over PSV Eindhoven and Inter Milan followed by a draw at Barcelona were enough to see them qualify for the knockout stages in second place.

Last season Spurs went out at the same stage to Juventus after losing at home following a draw in Turin, but Pochettino said that game will have no bearing on tomorrow at Wembley, where defender Jan Vertonghen expects a packed stadium will be right behind the home side.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Tuesday (February 12) that he believes his side can beat any team they face. Spurs face German league leaders Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday, but despite injuries to Harry Kane and Deli Alli the Argentinian is confident his side can get a positive result.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Tuesday (February 12) that he believes his side can beat any team they face. Spurs face German league leaders Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday, but despite injuries to Harry Kane and Deli Alli the Argentinian is confident his side can get a positive result. Spurs have kept pace in the Premier League without Kane and Alli and currently lie in third place, five points behind league leaders Manchester City and second-placed Liverpool. Pochettino's side looked to be heading out of the Champions League after taking just one point from their first three group stage games, however, wins over PSV Eindhoven and Inter Milan followed by a draw at Barcelona were enough to see them qualify for the knockout stages in second place. Last season Spurs went out at the same stage to Juventus after losing at home following a draw in Turin, but Pochettino said that game will have no bearing on tomorrow at Wembley, where defender Jan Vertonghen expects a packed stadium will be right behind the home side.

Tottenham get ready for Dortmund Champions League test

The video assistant referee (VAR) is due to make its UEFA Champions League debut on Tuesday (February 12) as the knock-out stages of the competition get going.

European soccer's governing body previously opted against using VAR this season, despite the technology being employed by major European leagues in Spain, Italy and Germany, and by FIFA at the World Cup in Russia.

But UEFA, led by Aleksander Ceferin, revised it stance in late 2018 and agreed to roll out the technology in this season's knock-out stages of the Champions League, the Europa League final and this summer's Nations League competition.

The Champions League returns this week with Real Madrid visiting Ajax, Tottenham facing off with Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United playing Paris St. Germain and last season's semi-finalists Roma taking on Porto.

The video assistant referee (VAR) is due to make its UEFA Champions League debut on Tuesday (February 12) as the knock-out stages of the competition get going. European soccer's governing body previously opted against using VAR this season, despite the technology being employed by major European leagues in Spain, Italy and Germany, and by FIFA at the World Cup in Russia.

The video assistant referee (VAR) is due to make its UEFA Champions League debut on Tuesday (February 12) as the knock-out stages of the competition get going. European soccer's governing body previously opted against using VAR this season, despite the technology being employed by major European leagues in Spain, Italy and Germany, and by FIFA at the World Cup in Russia. But UEFA, led by Aleksander Ceferin, revised it stance in late 2018 and agreed to roll out the technology in this season's knock-out stages of the Champions League, the Europa League final and this summer's Nations League competition. The Champions League returns this week with Real Madrid visiting Ajax, Tottenham facing off with Borussia Dortmund, Manchester United playing Paris St. Germain and last season's semi-finalists Roma taking on Porto.

VAR gets ready for Champions League debut

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday.

The report also found that teams winning groups were finishing with more points than 15 years ago and teams coming bottom with less -- all pointing to an increase in the gap between the elite clubs and the rest.

"The different indicators analysed illustrate a clear trend towards less balance and more predictability," said the Swiss-based CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) Football Observatory.

The study found that the number of "very unbalanced matches", where one team wins by three goals or more, had increased from 16.9 per cent of group matches between 2003 and 2006 to 22.9 per cent between 2015 and 2018.

During the same period, the average number of points won by the eventual group winners rose from 2.11 to 2.26 per game, while the goal difference of the group-winning teams rose from 6.38 after the six matches to 8.91.

Meanwhile, the average points-per-game of the teams finishing bottom of the groups fell from 0.59 to 0.45 and their final goal difference from -6.72 to -9.06.

"A thorough rethink is needed to preserve a sufficient level of sporting and economic balance both within the competition and in European football," the report said.

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday.

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday. The report also found that teams winning groups were finishing with more points than 15 years ago and teams coming bottom with less -- all pointing to an increase in the gap between the elite clubs and the rest. "The different indicators analysed illustrate a clear trend towards less balance and more predictability," said the Swiss-based CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) Football Observatory. The study found that the number of "very unbalanced matches", where one team wins by three goals or more, had increased from 16.9 per cent of group matches between 2003 and 2006 to 22.9 per cent between 2015 and 2018. During the same period, the average number of points won by the eventual group winners rose from 2.11 to 2.26 per game, while the goal difference of the group-winning teams rose from 6.38 after the six matches to 8.91. Meanwhile, the average points-per-game of the teams finishing bottom of the groups fell from 0.59 to 0.45 and their final goal difference from -6.72 to -9.06. "A thorough rethink is needed to preserve a sufficient level of sporting and economic balance both within the competition and in European football," the report said.

Champions League matches more one-sided now: Report

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

"It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added.&nbsp;

Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'.&nbsp;

Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford. Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference. "Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. "It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added. Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'. Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years.

PSG's head coach Thomas Tuchel compares Solskjaer to a doctor

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday.

United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford.

As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash. Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday. United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford. As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Solskjaer says it is the perfect time for Manchester United to play PSG

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