Around 1,000 Liverpool football club fans have been left stranded following the cancellation of flights to Saturday`s Champions League final in Ukraine`s capital, Kiev.

Chartered flights had been lined up to transport supporters to the game against Real Madrid.

But operator World Choice Sports was forced to cancel them after not being able to secure landing slots at Boryspil Airport, it said on its website.

Liverpool fans have been frantically trying to make last-minute alternative travel arrangements.

"My 18-year-old son`s flight to Kiev has just been cancelled by World Choice Sports.&nbsp; He is devastated.&nbsp; Anyone got a seat on a private plane?" asked Twitter user Raf B.

Supporter Chris Bolland commented: "I am gutted, to say the least.&nbsp;I am absolutely disgusted and there is nothing I can do about it."

Many fans booked with the tour operator owing to the expense and difficulty of getting into Kiev.

Those who have made it to the final have admitted to paying up to $7,000 to see their team in action.

The club said in a statement on its website that around 1,000 fans have been affected by the travel chaos. In total three flights have been cancelled.

A statement released on World Choice Sports` website on May 24 said: "With deep regret we can not get a flight on the 26th May from Liverpool or Manchester."

But help may be at hand in the bulky form of former heavyweight boxer Vitali Klitschko who is nowadays the Mayor of Kiev.

Liverpool mayor, Joe Anderson, has been talking to him in an effort to resolve the problem and said on Friday he was talking to a carrier that may be able to fly two or three planes to Kiev by the early evening on Saturday.&nbsp;

Liverpool fans have been frantically trying to make last-minute alternative travel arrangements.

Around 1,000 Liverpool football club fans have been left stranded following the cancellation of flights to Saturday`s Champions League final in Ukraine`s capital, Kiev. Chartered flights had been lined up to transport supporters to the game against Real Madrid. But operator World Choice Sports was forced to cancel them after not being able to secure landing slots at Boryspil Airport, it said on its website. Liverpool fans have been frantically trying to make last-minute alternative travel arrangements. "My 18-year-old son`s flight to Kiev has just been cancelled by World Choice Sports. He is devastated. Anyone got a seat on a private plane?" asked Twitter user Raf B. Supporter Chris Bolland commented: "I am gutted, to say the least. I am absolutely disgusted and there is nothing I can do about it." Many fans booked with the tour operator owing to the expense and difficulty of getting into Kiev. Those who have made it to the final have admitted to paying up to $7,000 to see their team in action. The club said in a statement on its website that around 1,000 fans have been affected by the travel chaos. In total three flights have been cancelled. A statement released on World Choice Sports` website on May 24 said: "With deep regret we can not get a flight on the 26th May from Liverpool or Manchester." But help may be at hand in the bulky form of former heavyweight boxer Vitali Klitschko who is nowadays the Mayor of Kiev. Liverpool mayor, Joe Anderson, has been talking to him in an effort to resolve the problem and said on Friday he was talking to a carrier that may be able to fly two or three planes to Kiev by the early evening on Saturday.

Champions League final: Nearly 1,000 Liverpool fans stranded by Ukraine flight problems

Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas is the most successful football export the Central American country has produced and his quiet but determined leadership will be central to his nation's hopes in Russia.

While several of the generations who reached the last eight of the World Cup four years ago have enjoyed lengthy careers in Europe and, before them, Paulo Wanchope made a mark in England, none has achieved as much as the Real Madrid goalkeeper.

Navas has two Champions League titles and a Spanish league title to his name with Real and despite constant suggestions that Zinedine Zidane might be looking elsewhere for another keeper the Costa Rican has kept his spot.

His ability to put aside these doubts and the frequent unfavourable comparisons to Spain's Manchester United keeper David De Gea, who was once lined up to replace him, is no surprise to those who know Navas's background and the adversity he handled so well on his way to the top.

Navas was born in the town of San Isidro in the agricultural Perez Zeledon region in the south of Costa Rica, to working-class parents.

When his mother and father emigrated to the United States, he was brought up by his grandfather and his early football experience was tough, with his local team Municipal Club Perez Zeledon rejecting him as being too small.

He was forced to leave behind his small rural hometown and move to the capital San Jose at the age of 14 as he sought to get his opportunity with the country's most successful club, Deportivo Saprissa.

At Saprissa, now 1.85 metres tall, the deeply Catholic Navas won six domestic league titles and the CONCACAF Champions League before moving to Albacete in Spain's second division, then Levante.

His superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition and persuaded Real to pay his buy-out fee to Levante and bring him to the Bernabeu.

Despite the doubters, he has been a big part of a golden era for Real in European competition, cementing his status as one of the most successful players to emerge from Central America.

Keylor Navas superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition

Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas is the most successful football export the Central American country has produced and his quiet but determined leadership will be central to his nation's hopes in Russia. While several of the generations who reached the last eight of the World Cup four years ago have enjoyed lengthy careers in Europe and, before them, Paulo Wanchope made a mark in England, none has achieved as much as the Real Madrid goalkeeper. Navas has two Champions League titles and a Spanish league title to his name with Real and despite constant suggestions that Zinedine Zidane might be looking elsewhere for another keeper the Costa Rican has kept his spot. His ability to put aside these doubts and the frequent unfavourable comparisons to Spain's Manchester United keeper David De Gea, who was once lined up to replace him, is no surprise to those who know Navas's background and the adversity he handled so well on his way to the top. Navas was born in the town of San Isidro in the agricultural Perez Zeledon region in the south of Costa Rica, to working-class parents. When his mother and father emigrated to the United States, he was brought up by his grandfather and his early football experience was tough, with his local team Municipal Club Perez Zeledon rejecting him as being too small. He was forced to leave behind his small rural hometown and move to the capital San Jose at the age of 14 as he sought to get his opportunity with the country's most successful club, Deportivo Saprissa. At Saprissa, now 1.85 metres tall, the deeply Catholic Navas won six domestic league titles and the CONCACAF Champions League before moving to Albacete in Spain's second division, then Levante. His superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition and persuaded Real to pay his buy-out fee to Levante and bring him to the Bernabeu. Despite the doubters, he has been a big part of a golden era for Real in European competition, cementing his status as one of the most successful players to emerge from Central America.

FIFA 2018: Keylor Navas' determined leadership will be central to Costa Rica's hopes in Russia

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League, despite clinching the title in three of the last four years.&nbsp

Real are gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive success in the competition on Saturday while Liverpool have reached the final for the first time since 2007.&nbsp

"No one can tell us we are less hungry," Zidane said. "I can't speak for our opponents but we want to stress we will always have the same motivation, the same as always, no one can tell us we are less hungry than the rest.&nbsp

"We are Madrid and despite what we have, we always want more, and we will give everything to get even better."

Real's experience at the deep end of the Champions League dwarfs that of this Liverpool team, who do not have a single player to have made it this far before.

Zidane also has his own personal achievements to draw upon, having won the most coveted prize in club football three times as a player and manager combined.

"It's true I lived 18 years as a player inside the changing room, with many coaches, with many players, with just as much ego as me," Zidane said.&nbsp

"I know the changing room and I know the mind of a player and that is an important thing for me, but it is not the only thing.&nbsp

"I am not the best tactician, but I have other things - passion, motivation - and those are worth much more."&nbsp

Some have billed this weekend's showdown as a contest between Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah but when asked if he would swap Ronaldo for the Liverpool forward, Zidane simply replied: "No."&nbsp

On Ronaldo's influence on the final, Zidane said: "The most possible. He is the best so it will be the maximum."&nbsp

Zidane would offer no clues as to his starting line-up in Kiev but he did acknowledge the excellent form of Gareth Bale, who has scored five goals in his last four starts.&nbsp

"He is playing very well, he has scored many goals recently," Zidane said. "Not only that but he has been very consistent. He has not played so much, but the last three games he has played he has played well."

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League

Zinedine Zidane has told Liverpool his Real Madrid team are hungrier than ever to win the Champions League, despite clinching the title in three of the last four years. Real are gunning for an unprecedented third consecutive success in the competition on Saturday while Liverpool have reached the final for the first time since 2007. "No one can tell us we are less hungry," Zidane said. "I can't speak for our opponents but we want to stress we will always have the same motivation, the same as always, no one can tell us we are less hungry than the rest. "We are Madrid and despite what we have, we always want more, and we will give everything to get even better." Real's experience at the deep end of the Champions League dwarfs that of this Liverpool team, who do not have a single player to have made it this far before. Zidane also has his own personal achievements to draw upon, having won the most coveted prize in club football three times as a player and manager combined. "It's true I lived 18 years as a player inside the changing room, with many coaches, with many players, with just as much ego as me," Zidane said. "I know the changing room and I know the mind of a player and that is an important thing for me, but it is not the only thing. "I am not the best tactician, but I have other things - passion, motivation - and those are worth much more." Some have billed this weekend's showdown as a contest between Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah but when asked if he would swap Ronaldo for the Liverpool forward, Zidane simply replied: "No." On Ronaldo's influence on the final, Zidane said: "The most possible. He is the best so it will be the maximum." Zidane would offer no clues as to his starting line-up in Kiev but he did acknowledge the excellent form of Gareth Bale, who has scored five goals in his last four starts. "He is playing very well, he has scored many goals recently," Zidane said. "Not only that but he has been very consistent. He has not played so much, but the last three games he has played he has played well."

Real Madrid is desperate to win the Champions League - Zidane

A surprise exit from the Champions League after defeat by Spain's Sevilla failed to dent English soccer club Manchester United's finances in the latest quarter as it stuck to its targets for the current year.

United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City.

"As another season nears its close, we have achieved our highest number of points and finish since 2012/13 and we look forward to another trip to Wembley," its Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward said.

United face Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday.

The club's adjusted earnings before interest, tax and depreciation and amortisation for the three months to March 31 rose to 36.1 million pounds ($48.71 million) from 30 million pounds a year ago.

Revenue for the period rose 8.1 percent to 137.5 million pounds.

United said it continued to target between 575-585 million pounds of revenue and adjusted core earnings of between 175-185 million pounds for the year to the end of June.

Manchester United Plc is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and controlled by the American Glazer family.

United have won the English league title a record 20 times but their performance has slipped in the recent seasons. However, finishing second in the English Premier League is enough to guarantee a place in next season's Champions League.

The Champions League, Europe's top club soccer tournament, is widely popular around the globe and garners significant revenue for the participating clubs via pooled TV payments and higher matchday receipts.

For United, matchday revenue in the third quarter rose 6.1 percent to 31.1 million pounds whereas broadcasting revenue came from 26.4 percent higher thanks to extra games in the period.

United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City

A surprise exit from the Champions League after defeat by Spain's Sevilla failed to dent English soccer club Manchester United's finances in the latest quarter as it stuck to its targets for the current year. United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City. "As another season nears its close, we have achieved our highest number of points and finish since 2012/13 and we look forward to another trip to Wembley," its Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward said. United face Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday. The club's adjusted earnings before interest, tax and depreciation and amortisation for the three months to March 31 rose to 36.1 million pounds ($48.71 million) from 30 million pounds a year ago. Revenue for the period rose 8.1 percent to 137.5 million pounds. United said it continued to target between 575-585 million pounds of revenue and adjusted core earnings of between 175-185 million pounds for the year to the end of June. Manchester United Plc is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and controlled by the American Glazer family. United have won the English league title a record 20 times but their performance has slipped in the recent seasons. However, finishing second in the English Premier League is enough to guarantee a place in next season's Champions League. The Champions League, Europe's top club soccer tournament, is widely popular around the globe and garners significant revenue for the participating clubs via pooled TV payments and higher matchday receipts. For United, matchday revenue in the third quarter rose 6.1 percent to 31.1 million pounds whereas broadcasting revenue came from 26.4 percent higher thanks to extra games in the period.

Manchester United on course to hit financial targets

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle as Liverpool easily beat Brighton.

It left last year's champions with only Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United to redeem a season in which they have finished a poor fifth.

Manager Antonio Conte made eight changes with the final in mind and saw an unimpressive performance.

Newcastle deservedly ended a run of four successive defeats under former Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez to earn a top-10 finish.

Dwight Gayle scored the opening goal in the first half and Spanish striker Ayoze Perez added the second and third after the break.

Conte agreed his team had looked "less determined" than Newcastle.

"At the start, we lost every single ball," he said. "To finish this way is not good. But if we didn't have this will and desire, I'm the first person to answer (for it)."

The Italian was defiant about reports that he will leave in the close season.

"I have a contract and I'm committed for this club," he insisted.

Benitez was delighted to finish on a high for his club's supporters and make the top half of the table 12 months after coming up from the Championship.

"When you have the fans behind the team all season, this is the best way to finish," he told Sky Sports.

"With good spells and bad spells through the season we are happy to finish 10th."

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle

Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle as Liverpool easily beat Brighton. It left last year's champions with only Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United to redeem a season in which they have finished a poor fifth. Manager Antonio Conte made eight changes with the final in mind and saw an unimpressive performance. Newcastle deservedly ended a run of four successive defeats under former Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez to earn a top-10 finish. Dwight Gayle scored the opening goal in the first half and Spanish striker Ayoze Perez added the second and third after the break. Conte agreed his team had looked "less determined" than Newcastle. "At the start, we lost every single ball," he said. "To finish this way is not good. But if we didn't have this will and desire, I'm the first person to answer (for it)." The Italian was defiant about reports that he will leave in the close season. "I have a contract and I'm committed for this club," he insisted. Benitez was delighted to finish on a high for his club's supporters and make the top half of the table 12 months after coming up from the Championship. "When you have the fans behind the team all season, this is the best way to finish," he told Sky Sports. "With good spells and bad spells through the season we are happy to finish 10th."

Chelsea miss out on Champions League

Mohamed&nbspSalah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the Champions League next term, and also saw the Egyptian break the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season.

Brighton had no answers at a sun-kissed Anfield as&nbspSalah's sensational form continued with him scoring his 32nd league goal of the campaign.

Dejan Lovren and maiden Liverpool goals for Dominic Solanke and Andy Robertson ensured there was no final day collapse against an already safe Brighton side that simply could not cope with Liverpool's attack.&nbsp

Before kick-off Jurgen Klopp's men had to forget about trying to win the Champions League in favour of just qualifying for the competition next season.

Upcoming events in Kiev were, understandably, on everybody's minds at Anfield, but a victory over Brighton was the immediate priority before focusing on the Champions League final against Real Madrid on May 26.&nbsp

Liverpool had stumbled on the domestic front in recent weeks as their European adventure took its toll, allowing Chelsea an outside chance of pipping them to fourth in the table.

But it was the brilliantly entertaining football showcased by Liverpool throughout most of the season that was on show as&nbspSalah&nbspalso grabbed the golden boot for the Premier League's top scorer.

Brighton were fortunate to survive two early penalty shouts as firstly Shane Duffy handled a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross before the Irishman clattered into&nbspSalah.

Brighton goalkeeper Matthew Ryan was then finally brought into action as he stood up well to block a close-range Sadio Mane effort.

Those missed opportunities raised Anfield's volume by several notches, but the stadium remained anxious until&nbspSalah&nbspbroke the deadlock after 26 minutes.

Salah&nbsppounced on a loose ball inside the area to comfortably beat Ryan and claim his 45th goal of the season overall. The finish also put him one goal ahead of Alan Shearer, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez who had all previously scored 31 in a 38-game Premier League season.&nbsp

Salah&nbspshould have had even more when, moments after his first, Mane ran through clear on goal and unselfishly squared for his team-mate but Ryan made a brave block before watching the rebound cleared off the line.&nbsp

Georginio Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino then both wasted a glorious opportunity apiece before Lovren showed the attackers how to do it, rising highest in a crammed penalty area to nod past Ryan and kill the contest off after just 40 minutes.&nbsp

With Chelsea also losing 3-0 at Newcastle, the second-half had a more processional feel to it, helped enormously by Solanke's stunning finish after 53 minutes when he rifled into the roof of the net to open his Liverpool account.&nbsp

Liverpool remained on the front foot and Ryan did well to deny Firmino as he looked to cap off another hard-working afternoon with a goal.

Robertson did get his first goal for the club by staying calm to thrash home a loose ball six minutes from time to add even more gloss to an afternoon of total dominance.&nbsp

One European adventure for Liverpool is now guaranteed for next season all attention now turns to a far bigger one fast approaching on the horizon.

Mohamed Salah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the Champions League next term

Mohamed&nbspSalah's clinical first-half strike against Brighton helped confirm Liverpool's presence in the Champions League next term, and also saw the Egyptian break the record for most goals scored in a 38-game Premier League season. Brighton had no answers at a sun-kissed Anfield as&nbspSalah's sensational form continued with him scoring his 32nd league goal of the campaign. Dejan Lovren and maiden Liverpool goals for Dominic Solanke and Andy Robertson ensured there was no final day collapse against an already safe Brighton side that simply could not cope with Liverpool's attack. Before kick-off Jurgen Klopp's men had to forget about trying to win the Champions League in favour of just qualifying for the competition next season. Upcoming events in Kiev were, understandably, on everybody's minds at Anfield, but a victory over Brighton was the immediate priority before focusing on the Champions League final against Real Madrid on May 26. Liverpool had stumbled on the domestic front in recent weeks as their European adventure took its toll, allowing Chelsea an outside chance of pipping them to fourth in the table. But it was the brilliantly entertaining football showcased by Liverpool throughout most of the season that was on show as&nbspSalah&nbspalso grabbed the golden boot for the Premier League's top scorer. Brighton were fortunate to survive two early penalty shouts as firstly Shane Duffy handled a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross before the Irishman clattered into&nbspSalah. Brighton goalkeeper Matthew Ryan was then finally brought into action as he stood up well to block a close-range Sadio Mane effort. Those missed opportunities raised Anfield's volume by several notches, but the stadium remained anxious until&nbspSalah&nbspbroke the deadlock after 26 minutes. Salah&nbsppounced on a loose ball inside the area to comfortably beat Ryan and claim his 45th goal of the season overall. The finish also put him one goal ahead of Alan Shearer, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez who had all previously scored 31 in a 38-game Premier League season. Salah&nbspshould have had even more when, moments after his first, Mane ran through clear on goal and unselfishly squared for his team-mate but Ryan made a brave block before watching the rebound cleared off the line. Georginio Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino then both wasted a glorious opportunity apiece before Lovren showed the attackers how to do it, rising highest in a crammed penalty area to nod past Ryan and kill the contest off after just 40 minutes. With Chelsea also losing 3-0 at Newcastle, the second-half had a more processional feel to it, helped enormously by Solanke's stunning finish after 53 minutes when he rifled into the roof of the net to open his Liverpool account. Liverpool remained on the front foot and Ryan did well to deny Firmino as he looked to cap off another hard-working afternoon with a goal. Robertson did get his first goal for the club by staying calm to thrash home a loose ball six minutes from time to add even more gloss to an afternoon of total dominance. One European adventure for Liverpool is now guaranteed for next season all attention now turns to a far bigger one fast approaching on the horizon.

Salah guides Liverpool into next season's Champions League

Chelsea's 1-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday shows they have rediscovered the kind of work ethic it takes to get results in the Premier League, defender Gary Cahill said.

Chelsea's victory over the Champions League finalists was their fourth league win in a row and Antonio Conte's side are now within touching distance of a top-four finish with two league games remaining.

They face Huddersfield Town on Wednesday and Newcastle United on Sunday.

"Of late we've shown the right attitude, we've shown the right work ethic to get back to the level we should be at and the momentum is building now, we're getting results," Cahill told Chelsea's website http://www.chelseafc.com/news/latest-news/2018/05/cahill--back-at-our-level.html.

Chelsea are fifth on 69 points, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur and three points behind Liverpool, who have played a game more.

Cahill said keeping the Liverpool trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino off the scoresheet on Sunday was a major accomplishment.

"We did well against a front three who've been absolutely fantastic," Cahill added.

"We defended fantastically well as a team and to get a clean sheet against those three, who are top players and can hurt you time and again, was great."

Chelsea are fifth on 69 points, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur and three points behind Liverpool, who have played a game more

Chelsea's 1-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday shows they have rediscovered the kind of work ethic it takes to get results in the Premier League, defender Gary Cahill said. Chelsea's victory over the Champions League finalists was their fourth league win in a row and Antonio Conte's side are now within touching distance of a top-four finish with two league games remaining. They face Huddersfield Town on Wednesday and Newcastle United on Sunday. "Of late we've shown the right attitude, we've shown the right work ethic to get back to the level we should be at and the momentum is building now, we're getting results," Cahill told Chelsea's website http://www.chelseafc.com/news/latest-news/2018/05/cahill--back-at-our-level.html. Chelsea are fifth on 69 points, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur and three points behind Liverpool, who have played a game more. Cahill said keeping the Liverpool trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino off the scoresheet on Sunday was a major accomplishment. "We did well against a front three who've been absolutely fantastic," Cahill added. "We defended fantastically well as a team and to get a clean sheet against those three, who are top players and can hurt you time and again, was great."

Renewed work ethic key to Chelsea revival, says Gary Cahill

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions Barcelona victory in an ill-tempered 'Clasico' which finished 2-2 at the Nou Camp on Sunday (May 6) after the home side had Sergi Roberto sent off at the end of the first half.

Luis Suarez volleyed unbeaten Barca into the lead after 10 minutes following a gut-busting run and cross from Roberto while Cristiano Ronaldo levelled for Champions League finalists Real five minutes later from close range.

However, the Portugal forward's ankle was trodden on by Gerard Pique in the process and he was substituted at halftime. Coach Zinedine Zidane said the injury was "a small thing" and Ronaldo will be fit for the Champions League final.

Bale had risked getting sent off for raking his studs against Samuel Umtiti's leg but escaped without a booking on that occasion and Roberto was sent off moments later for hitting Marcelo following an off-the-ball tussle.

Lionel Messi scored a mesmerising, record-extending 26th Clasico goal to put 10-man Barca back in front after 52 minutes but Bale, who had contributed little, silenced the Nou Camp with a thumping strike from the edge of the area in the 72nd.

Champions Barca have 87 points while Real are third in the Liga standings with 72 after 35 games. Atletico Madrid, who lost their unbeaten home record in a 2-0 defeat by Espanyol erlier on Sunday, are second on 75 but have played one game more.

This was the first 'Clasico' in a decade which had no bearing on the title race but the game was still played with all the usual passion and tension which makes it the most famous club fixture in Europe.

Referee Alejando Hernandez Hernandez showed a total of eight yellow cards as well as the straight red for Roberto.

Bale was eventually booked as was the usually even-tempered Messi, who made an uncharacteristically aggressive challenge on Sergio Ramos after the Real captain had an ugly confrontation with Suarez which led to both players getting yellow cards.

Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later.

Both sides pushed for a winner and Real could have had a penalty when Jordi Alba caught Marcelo but Barca clung on to remain unbeaten in the league with three games to go.

Barcelona's players remained on the pitch after the game to celebrate their double success with the home fans, having clinched the title last week at Deportivo La Coruna and won the King's Cup final against Sevilla on April 21.

Real refused to offer the traditional guard of honour to the champions before the game so Barca defender Gerard Pique asked the Catalan club's coaching staff to form two lines either side of his team mates as they left the pitch.

Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later.

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions Barcelona victory in an ill-tempered 'Clasico' which finished 2-2 at the Nou Camp on Sunday (May 6) after the home side had Sergi Roberto sent off at the end of the first half. Luis Suarez volleyed unbeaten Barca into the lead after 10 minutes following a gut-busting run and cross from Roberto while Cristiano Ronaldo levelled for Champions League finalists Real five minutes later from close range. However, the Portugal forward's ankle was trodden on by Gerard Pique in the process and he was substituted at halftime. Coach Zinedine Zidane said the injury was "a small thing" and Ronaldo will be fit for the Champions League final. Bale had risked getting sent off for raking his studs against Samuel Umtiti's leg but escaped without a booking on that occasion and Roberto was sent off moments later for hitting Marcelo following an off-the-ball tussle. Lionel Messi scored a mesmerising, record-extending 26th Clasico goal to put 10-man Barca back in front after 52 minutes but Bale, who had contributed little, silenced the Nou Camp with a thumping strike from the edge of the area in the 72nd. Champions Barca have 87 points while Real are third in the Liga standings with 72 after 35 games. Atletico Madrid, who lost their unbeaten home record in a 2-0 defeat by Espanyol erlier on Sunday, are second on 75 but have played one game more. This was the first 'Clasico' in a decade which had no bearing on the title race but the game was still played with all the usual passion and tension which makes it the most famous club fixture in Europe. Referee Alejando Hernandez Hernandez showed a total of eight yellow cards as well as the straight red for Roberto. Bale was eventually booked as was the usually even-tempered Messi, who made an uncharacteristically aggressive challenge on Sergio Ramos after the Real captain had an ugly confrontation with Suarez which led to both players getting yellow cards. Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later. Both sides pushed for a winner and Real could have had a penalty when Jordi Alba caught Marcelo but Barca clung on to remain unbeaten in the league with three games to go. Barcelona's players remained on the pitch after the game to celebrate their double success with the home fans, having clinched the title last week at Deportivo La Coruna and won the King's Cup final against Sevilla on April 21. Real refused to offer the traditional guard of honour to the champions before the game so Barca defender Gerard Pique asked the Catalan club's coaching staff to form two lines either side of his team mates as they left the pitch.

El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in ill-tempered draw

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea.

Liverpool, who will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final later this month after a 7-6 aggregate win over AS Roma, are looking to seal a top-four finish in the league to ensure qualification for Europe's elite club competition next season.

The Merseyside club are third in the table with 72 points with Tottenham Hotspur (71) and Chelsea (66) breathing down their necks. Klopp said his team's focus is on beating Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion in their final game.

"We have two semis again, against Chelsea and Brighton. Both games are important. There is no chance to think of anything else and then we have two weeks to prepare (for the Champions League final)," Klopp told a news conference.

"We have really fought hard to be in the position we are and now we have to finish the job... we need to be ready for Chelsea and it could be the same intensity like it was in Rome because it's a similar situation. They need to win and we want to."

Liverpool will assess the injuries of midfielder Emre Can (back) and defender Joe Gomez (knock) before they can determine if the pair can return to action in the run-in.

Midfielder Adam Lallana stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury by completing a training session on Thursday.

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea

Liverpool must approach their remaining two Premier League games as if they were "semi-finals", manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of Sunday's trip to last season's champions Chelsea. Liverpool, who will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final later this month after a 7-6 aggregate win over AS Roma, are looking to seal a top-four finish in the league to ensure qualification for Europe's elite club competition next season. The Merseyside club are third in the table with 72 points with Tottenham Hotspur (71) and Chelsea (66) breathing down their necks. Klopp said his team's focus is on beating Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion in their final game. "We have two semis again, against Chelsea and Brighton. Both games are important. There is no chance to think of anything else and then we have two weeks to prepare (for the Champions League final)," Klopp told a news conference. "We have really fought hard to be in the position we are and now we have to finish the job... we need to be ready for Chelsea and it could be the same intensity like it was in Rome because it's a similar situation. They need to win and we want to." Liverpool will assess the injuries of midfielder Emre Can (back) and defender Joe Gomez (knock) before they can determine if the pair can return to action in the run-in. Midfielder Adam Lallana stepped up his recovery from a hamstring injury by completing a training session on Thursday.

Juergen Klopp: Liverpool focused on two Premier League 'semi-finals'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/investigations-cannot-be-impeded-by-closure-of-cambridge-analytica-damian-collins-member-uk-parliament-committee-134296">Investigations cannot be impeded by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/investigations-cannot-be-impeded-by-closure-of-cambridge-analytica-damian-collins-member-uk-parliament-committee-134296">closure</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/investigations-cannot-be-impeded-by-closure-of-cambridge-analytica-damian-collins-member-uk-parliament-committee-134296"> of Cambridge Analytica: UK Parliament committee</a>

Cambridge Analytica(CA), the firm at the centre of a worldwide data breach of Facebook users, announced today that it was filing for bankruptcy and closing down.

"Despite Cambridge Analytica's unwavering confidence that its employees have acted ethically and lawfully, the siege of media coverage has driven away virtually all of the company's customers and suppliers," the company said in a statement.

"As a result, it has been determined that it is no longer viable to continue operating the business, which left Cambridge Analytica with no realistic alternative to placing the company into administration," it added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-edge-out-as-roma-to-meet-real-madrid-in-final-134295">Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final</a>

AS Roma fought hard till the end but it was not enough to stop Liverpool from advancing to the finals of the Champions League at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night.

Klopp's team went down 2-4 to a resurgent Roma who were determined to show their home fans they could overcome the 3 goal deficit of the first leg at Anfield as Radja Nainggolan struck late with 2 goals, but it was not to be as the visitors held off to win the game on a 7-6 aggregate.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298">Justin Langer to be </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298"> coach of Australia</a>

Cricket Australia said today former Australian Test opener Justin Langer, 47, will takeover as head coach of the national team.

Langer's coaching job comes after Darren Lehmann stepped down as coach of the Australian team after the ball-tampering row in South Africa which led Steve Smith and David Warner to be banned by Cricket Australia. Cameron Bancroft was also banned for his part in the incident.

"Whilst Darren Lehmann was not due to complete his term until next year, we have had a succession plan in place for this role for some time," Cricket Australia (CA) CEO James Sutherland said.

"We firmly believe Justin is the right person to lead this team and have huge confidence in what he will bring to the role, " Sutherland added.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-calls-australian-pms-wife-delicious-134299">Macron calls Australian PM's wife 'delicious'</a>

French president Emmanuel Macron left his Australian audience wondering after he called Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's wife "delicious".

"Thank you and your delicious wife for your warm welcome, the perfect organisation of this trip," he said.

"Thanks to you and Lucy, thank you very much, Mr Prime Minister," he added.

Speculation, however, is rife that Macron was referring to the word délicieux, which can be used to describe a very tasty meal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kidnap-german-nurse-in-somalia-134297">Gunmen kidnap German nurse in Somalia's Mogadishu</a>

A German nurse working for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was kidnapped on Wednesday evening from a compound in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, the Red Cross said today.

The attack happened around 8.00 pm local time (1700 GMT) when unidentified armed men entered its compound in Mogadishu, the Red Cross said.

Daniel O'Malley, ICRC's deputy Somalia head said the Red Cross was "deeply concerned about the safety of our colleague" and that the nurse was working everyday to save lives.

Investigations cannot be impeded by closure of Cambridge Analytica: UK Parliament committee Cambridge Analytica(CA), the firm at the centre of a worldwide data breach of Facebook users, announced today that it was filing for bankruptcy and closing down. "Despite Cambridge Analytica's unwavering confidence that its employees have acted ethically and lawfully, the siege of media coverage has driven away virtually all of the company's customers and suppliers," the company said in a statement. "As a result, it has been determined that it is no longer viable to continue operating the business, which left Cambridge Analytica with no realistic alternative to placing the company into administration," it added. Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final AS Roma fought hard till the end but it was not enough to stop Liverpool from advancing to the finals of the Champions League at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night. Klopp's team went down 2-4 to a resurgent Roma who were determined to show their home fans they could overcome the 3 goal deficit of the first leg at Anfield as Radja Nainggolan struck late with 2 goals, but it was not to be as the visitors held off to win the game on a 7-6 aggregate. Justin Langer to be new coach of Australia Cricket Australia said today former Australian Test opener Justin Langer, 47, will takeover as head coach of the national team. Langer's coaching job comes after Darren Lehmann stepped down as coach of the Australian team after the ball-tampering row in South Africa which led Steve Smith and David Warner to be banned by Cricket Australia. Cameron Bancroft was also banned for his part in the incident. "Whilst Darren Lehmann was not due to complete his term until next year, we have had a succession plan in place for this role for some time," Cricket Australia (CA) CEO James Sutherland said. "We firmly believe Justin is the right person to lead this team and have huge confidence in what he will bring to the role, " Sutherland added. Macron calls Australian PM's wife 'delicious' French president Emmanuel Macron left his Australian audience wondering after he called Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's wife "delicious". "Thank you and your delicious wife for your warm welcome, the perfect organisation of this trip," he said. "Thanks to you and Lucy, thank you very much, Mr Prime Minister," he added. Speculation, however, is rife that Macron was referring to the word délicieux, which can be used to describe a very tasty meal. Gunmen kidnap German nurse in Somalia's Mogadishu A German nurse working for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was kidnapped on Wednesday evening from a compound in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, the Red Cross said today. The attack happened around 8.00 pm local time (1700 GMT) when unidentified armed men entered its compound in Mogadishu, the Red Cross said. Daniel O'Malley, ICRC's deputy Somalia head said the Red Cross was "deeply concerned about the safety of our colleague" and that the nurse was working everyday to save lives.

News brief: 5 big stories of the day

AS Roma fought hard till the end but it was not enough to stop Liverpool from advancing to the finals of the Champions League at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night.

Klopp's team went down 2-4 to a resurgent Roma who were determined to show their home fans they could overcome the 3 goal deficit of the first leg at Anfield as Radja Nainggolan struck late with 2 goals, but it was not to be as the visitors held off to win the game on a 7-6 aggregate.

The five-times European champions&nbsp;will now face holders Real Madrid in the May 26 final.&nbsp;

Liverpool's Sadio Mane struck in the ninth minute to put them in front but an own goal from James Milner put the Reds back. Georginio Wijnaldum header then put Liverpool back in front but Edin Dzeko levelled it for Roma early in the second half.

Nainggolan struck again in the 86th minute to make it tantalising close for the hosts but the Italians left it too late as Liverpool held their nerves to advance with a single goal advantage having won at home with a 5-2 scoreline.

"We are deserved finalists 100 percent," said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp. "You don’t come without luck. We needed it only one time tonight. "The boys deserve it, the character they showed, the football they showed -- it was just crazy. I forgot the score. It was 7-6 right? Unbelievable."

"Liverpool did not rob us of anything. They demonstrated they were a great team with some very great players," Roma coach Eusebio di Francesco said.

"The team that won, won on the details where we were not so good."

Liverpool last won the coveted trophy in 2005 and made it to the finals in 2007, they will now meet Cristiano Ronaldo's Real Madrid at the NSC Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kiev, Ukraine later this month.

Liverpool last won the coverted trophy in 2005 and made it to the finals in 2007

AS Roma fought hard till the end but it was not enough to stop Liverpool from advancing to the finals of the Champions League at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night. Klopp's team went down 2-4 to a resurgent Roma who were determined to show their home fans they could overcome the 3 goal deficit of the first leg at Anfield as Radja Nainggolan struck late with 2 goals, but it was not to be as the visitors held off to win the game on a 7-6 aggregate. The five-times European champions will now face holders Real Madrid in the May 26 final. Liverpool's Sadio Mane struck in the ninth minute to put them in front but an own goal from James Milner put the Reds back. Georginio Wijnaldum header then put Liverpool back in front but Edin Dzeko levelled it for Roma early in the second half. Nainggolan struck again in the 86th minute to make it tantalising close for the hosts but the Italians left it too late as Liverpool held their nerves to advance with a single goal advantage having won at home with a 5-2 scoreline. "We are deserved finalists 100 percent," said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp. "You don’t come without luck. We needed it only one time tonight. "The boys deserve it, the character they showed, the football they showed -- it was just crazy. I forgot the score. It was 7-6 right? Unbelievable." "Liverpool did not rob us of anything. They demonstrated they were a great team with some very great players," Roma coach Eusebio di Francesco said. "The team that won, won on the details where we were not so good." Liverpool last won the coveted trophy in 2005 and made it to the finals in 2007, they will now meet Cristiano Ronaldo's Real Madrid at the NSC Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kiev, Ukraine later this month.

Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final

Holders Real Madrid reached the Champions League final for a third year in a row after taking advantage of Bayern Munich’s carelessness in attack and defence to draw 2-2 in their semi-final second leg on Tuesday, winning 4-3 on aggregate.

Bayern defender Joshua Kimmich put them in front in the third minute at the Santiago Bernabeu but Karim Benzema levelled with a free header in the 11th. A goalkeeping howler from Bayern’s Sven Ulreich then allowed Benzema to tap in Madrid’s second at the start of the second half.

James Rodriguez, on loan from Madrid, hit a deserved equaliser for Bayern in the 63rd to set up a gripping finale but the Spaniards clung on despite waves of pressure from the visitors to become the first team since Juventus in 1998 to reach the final for three years in succession.

They will meet either Liverpool or AS Roma in the final in Kiev on May 26, where they will bid to become the first side since Bayern in 1976 to win the competition three years in a row.

Madrid had ridden their luck to win the first leg in Munich 2-1 after Bayern had missed a slew of chances and Zinedine Zidane`s side made the most of their few opportunities.

Madrid fans unfurled a giant banner before kickoff stating "We will defend the throne, we will capture glory", but Bayern launched an early assault on their kingdom as David Alaba came rushing forward only to pass into the hands of keeper Keylor Navas.

Bayern came back down the other flank and landed their first punch when Sergio Ramos failed to clear a cross and Kimmich gleefully knocked home from close range.

It was the third consecutive home game in the knockout stages that Madrid had fallen behind, but they kept their composure and soon found an equaliser.&nbsp;

A superb crossfield ball from Luka Modric was controlled by Marcelo who delivered the perfect cross for Benzema to nod calmly in at the back post.

An end-to-end game ensued, with midfield frequently being bypassed by long balls up to the forwards. Bayern could have re-taken the lead when striker Robert Lewandowski was foiled by Madrid goalkeeper Navas and Rodriguez sent the rebound flying over the bar from close range.

Bayern finished the half strongly but were left fuming at a failed penalty appeal when a shot from Kimmich struck Marcelo’s arm. 
They sealed their own demise, though, when Ulreich lost his footing as he tried to control a backpass from Corentin Tolisso, allowing Madrid`s much-maligned striker Benzema to tap in what proved to be the killer blow.

Bayern still created chances before and after Rodriguez`s goal. 
Navas denied the Colombian and Mats Hummels headed wide from a corner in stoppage time, sealing Bayern’s fifth consecutive Champions League exit to a Spanish side, and their third to Madrid in that time.

Real Madrid will meet either Liverpool or AS Roma in the final in Kiev on May 26

Holders Real Madrid reached the Champions League final for a third year in a row after taking advantage of Bayern Munich’s carelessness in attack and defence to draw 2-2 in their semi-final second leg on Tuesday, winning 4-3 on aggregate. Bayern defender Joshua Kimmich put them in front in the third minute at the Santiago Bernabeu but Karim Benzema levelled with a free header in the 11th. A goalkeeping howler from Bayern’s Sven Ulreich then allowed Benzema to tap in Madrid’s second at the start of the second half. James Rodriguez, on loan from Madrid, hit a deserved equaliser for Bayern in the 63rd to set up a gripping finale but the Spaniards clung on despite waves of pressure from the visitors to become the first team since Juventus in 1998 to reach the final for three years in succession. They will meet either Liverpool or AS Roma in the final in Kiev on May 26, where they will bid to become the first side since Bayern in 1976 to win the competition three years in a row. Madrid had ridden their luck to win the first leg in Munich 2-1 after Bayern had missed a slew of chances and Zinedine Zidane`s side made the most of their few opportunities. Madrid fans unfurled a giant banner before kickoff stating "We will defend the throne, we will capture glory", but Bayern launched an early assault on their kingdom as David Alaba came rushing forward only to pass into the hands of keeper Keylor Navas. Bayern came back down the other flank and landed their first punch when Sergio Ramos failed to clear a cross and Kimmich gleefully knocked home from close range. It was the third consecutive home game in the knockout stages that Madrid had fallen behind, but they kept their composure and soon found an equaliser. A superb crossfield ball from Luka Modric was controlled by Marcelo who delivered the perfect cross for Benzema to nod calmly in at the back post. An end-to-end game ensued, with midfield frequently being bypassed by long balls up to the forwards. Bayern could have re-taken the lead when striker Robert Lewandowski was foiled by Madrid goalkeeper Navas and Rodriguez sent the rebound flying over the bar from close range. Bayern finished the half strongly but were left fuming at a failed penalty appeal when a shot from Kimmich struck Marcelo’s arm. They sealed their own demise, though, when Ulreich lost his footing as he tried to control a backpass from Corentin Tolisso, allowing Madrid`s much-maligned striker Benzema to tap in what proved to be the killer blow. Bayern still created chances before and after Rodriguez`s goal. Navas denied the Colombian and Mats Hummels headed wide from a corner in stoppage time, sealing Bayern’s fifth consecutive Champions League exit to a Spanish side, and their third to Madrid in that time.

Champions League: Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich to reach final for third year in a row

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday.

But Stoke's hard-won point may not be enough to secure the visitors' survival after Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace all won. With Swansea City due to play Chelsea later on Saturday, the fight for positions at both ends of the table will go to the final day.

Liverpool, who still have to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, lead the Blues by nine points with two games in hand although superior goal difference may prove decisive for Juergen Klopp's side.

Domestic finishing position would, of course, prove academic if Liverpool win the Champions League. They certainly looked like a side with their semi-final second leg in Rome on their mind as they failed to make the most of 72 per cent possession against visitors who had never won a league game at Anfield.

Even 43-goal Mohamed Salah had an off-day, marking the first time since Boxing Day that the Egyptian had failed to score after starting at home.

Liverpool, who made five changes from their semi-final first leg in midweek, felt they deserved a late penalty after Erik Pieters handled in an incident similar to the one that led to James Milner conceding a spot-kick against AS Roma.

"We had to make changes, that is always a bit of a rhythm breaker, in the final third everything is instinct between the regulars, and we missed a bit of that," said Klopp, who added Liverpool had not sustained any further injuries.

LATE HEROICS

Elsewhere, Southampton gave themselves a shot at safety by beating south coast rivals Bournemouth 2-1 with two goals from Dusan Tadic. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy proved the real hero with a late save from Ryan Fraser, whose fierce shot looked destined for the net.

Bottom side West Brom continue to defy relegation after Matt Phillips' first-half shot gave them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United, their eighth point from four games under caretaker manager Darren Moore.

Heartening as the win was, a Swansea victory later on Saturday would still end Albion's eight-year top-flight stay.

Palace all but guaranteed their safety after thumping Leicester City 5-0, a result that will do little to halt the speculation over Claude Puel's future as Foxes' manager.

Wilfried Zaha scored Palace's first and laid on their second for James McArthur while substitute Christian Benteke rounded off the rout with a penalty.

Roy Hodgson's side are now six points clear of the drop zone although they have played one more match than four teams below them. Among them are Brighton & Hove Albion, who drew 0-0 with Burnley, and Huddersfield Town, who lost 2-0 at home to Everton.

Although Huddersfield are three points clear of 18th-placed Southampton, their run-in is difficult with trips to Manchester City and Chelsea and a home game against Arsenal, which will be Arsene Wenger's final match in charge of the Gunners.

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday

Liverpool's hopes of virtually securing a top-four Premier League spot were frustrated by a battling Stoke City side who restricted the usually free-scoring Reds to a goalless draw at Anfield on Saturday. But Stoke's hard-won point may not be enough to secure the visitors' survival after Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace all won. With Swansea City due to play Chelsea later on Saturday, the fight for positions at both ends of the table will go to the final day. Liverpool, who still have to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, lead the Blues by nine points with two games in hand although superior goal difference may prove decisive for Juergen Klopp's side. Domestic finishing position would, of course, prove academic if Liverpool win the Champions League. They certainly looked like a side with their semi-final second leg in Rome on their mind as they failed to make the most of 72 per cent possession against visitors who had never won a league game at Anfield. Even 43-goal Mohamed Salah had an off-day, marking the first time since Boxing Day that the Egyptian had failed to score after starting at home. Liverpool, who made five changes from their semi-final first leg in midweek, felt they deserved a late penalty after Erik Pieters handled in an incident similar to the one that led to James Milner conceding a spot-kick against AS Roma. "We had to make changes, that is always a bit of a rhythm breaker, in the final third everything is instinct between the regulars, and we missed a bit of that," said Klopp, who added Liverpool had not sustained any further injuries. LATE HEROICS Elsewhere, Southampton gave themselves a shot at safety by beating south coast rivals Bournemouth 2-1 with two goals from Dusan Tadic. Goalkeeper Alex McCarthy proved the real hero with a late save from Ryan Fraser, whose fierce shot looked destined for the net. Bottom side West Brom continue to defy relegation after Matt Phillips' first-half shot gave them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United, their eighth point from four games under caretaker manager Darren Moore. Heartening as the win was, a Swansea victory later on Saturday would still end Albion's eight-year top-flight stay. Palace all but guaranteed their safety after thumping Leicester City 5-0, a result that will do little to halt the speculation over Claude Puel's future as Foxes' manager. Wilfried Zaha scored Palace's first and laid on their second for James McArthur while substitute Christian Benteke rounded off the rout with a penalty. Roy Hodgson's side are now six points clear of the drop zone although they have played one more match than four teams below them. Among them are Brighton & Hove Albion, who drew 0-0 with Burnley, and Huddersfield Town, who lost 2-0 at home to Everton. Although Huddersfield are three points clear of 18th-placed Southampton, their run-in is difficult with trips to Manchester City and Chelsea and a home game against Arsenal, which will be Arsene Wenger's final match in charge of the Gunners.

EPL: Liverpool frustrated; Southampton and Palace boost survival chances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liverpool blew AS Roma defence into pieces as the Reds defeated&nbsp;visitors 5-2 in the first leg of Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday at Anfield.

Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah struck twice in the first half to give an early 2-0 lead to Juergen Klopp's side.

Lead was then further extend by&nbsp;Roberto Firmino as he ripped Roma apart after the break by scoring two more goals.

Sadio Mane scored one more goal to make it&nbsp;5-0 up for Liverpool but two late Roma goals, however, gave&nbsp;the Italians some relaxation as they tried to forfeit the deficit to some extent.

Edin Dzeko struck for the visitors in the 81st minute and four minutes later Diego Perotti converted a penalty to save some excitement for the second leg game.

As the fans would expect AS Roma to repeat the quarter-finals heroics that booted out Spanish&nbsp;giants FC Barcelona from the tournament when they&nbsp;came back from 4-1 down to beat Barca&nbsp;in the round of eight.

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It's half-time in the tie. Another big 90 minutes in Rome await. 
 
Up the Reds! ? <a href="https://t.co/LeSwh7tVzl">pic.twitter.com/LeSwh7tVzl</a>
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/mosalah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mosalah</a>'s latest attacking masterclass helped establish a 5-2 lead in our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> semi-final first leg. 
 
Our take on tonight's seven-goal thriller → <a href="https://t.co/HcXakqONx2">https://t.co/HcXakqONx2</a> <a href="https://t.co/4gkoCOxlnF">pic.twitter.com/4gkoCOxlnF</a>
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Edin Džeko has now scored in 4 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> games in a row. ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/Pt4OLDxIPK">pic.twitter.com/Pt4OLDxIPK</a>
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&nbsp;

Mo Salah struck twice in the first half to give an early lead to Juergen Klopp's side

Liverpool blew AS Roma defence into pieces as the Reds defeated visitors 5-2 in the first leg of Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday at Anfield. Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah struck twice in the first half to give an early 2-0 lead to Juergen Klopp's side. Lead was then further extend by Roberto Firmino as he ripped Roma apart after the break by scoring two more goals. Sadio Mane scored one more goal to make it 5-0 up for Liverpool but two late Roma goals, however, gave the Italians some relaxation as they tried to forfeit the deficit to some extent. Edin Dzeko struck for the visitors in the 81st minute and four minutes later Diego Perotti converted a penalty to save some excitement for the second leg game. As the fans would expect AS Roma to repeat the quarter-finals heroics that booted out Spanish giants FC Barcelona from the tournament when they came back from 4-1 down to beat Barca in the round of eight. It's half-time in the tie. Another big 90 minutes in Rome await. Up the Reds! ? pic.twitter.com/LeSwh7tVzl — Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 24, 2018 × .@mosalah's latest attacking masterclass helped establish a 5-2 lead in our #UCL semi-final first leg. Our take on tonight's seven-goal thriller → https://t.co/HcXakqONx2 pic.twitter.com/4gkoCOxlnF — Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 24, 2018 × Edin Džeko has now scored in 4 #UCL games in a row. ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/Pt4OLDxIPK — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 24, 2018 ×

Champions League: Super Salah shines again as Liverpool beat Roma in semi-final first leg

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/asaram-verdict-today-security-beefed-up-in-3-states-entry-of-media-banned-132657">Asaram verdict today: Security heightened in 3 states, entry of media banned</a>

The Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court will pronounce its verdict today in a rape case against Asaram Bapu, a self-styled godman.&nbsp;

The judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-to-hold-class-12-economics-paper-retest-today-132667">CBSE to hold Class 12 economics paper retest today</a>

The Central Board of Secondary Education will conduct a re-test of its Class 12 economics paper today, nearly a month after it was leaked triggering widespread outrage and confusion among students across India.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-pay-a-price-like-few-countries-have-trump-threatens-iran-with-retaliation-if-it-restarts-nuclear-programme-132654">Will pay a price like few countries have: Trump threatens Iran with retaliation if it restarts </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-pay-a-price-like-few-countries-have-trump-threatens-iran-with-retaliation-if-it-restarts-nuclear-programme-132654">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-pay-a-price-like-few-countries-have-trump-threatens-iran-with-retaliation-if-it-restarts-nuclear-programme-132654"> programme</a>

US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/anger-against-women-reason-for-toronto-van-attack-132664">Anger against women reason for Toronto van attack?&nbsp;</a>

The man accused of plowing a rental van into pedestrians on a crowded Toronto sidewalk, killing 10 people in Canada's deadliest mass killing in decades, left a "cryptic message" on social media before his attack, police said on Tuesday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-super-salah-shines-again-as-liverpool-trounce-as-roma-in-semi-final-132649">Champions League: Super Salah shines again as Liverpool defeat AS Roma in semi-final&nbsp;first leg</a>

Liverpool blew Roma's defence to pieces as the Reds beat the visitors 5-2 in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday at Anfield.

Read the five big stories of the day here

Asaram verdict today: Security heightened in 3 states, entry of media banned The Jodhpur Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribe Court will pronounce its verdict today in a rape case against Asaram Bapu, a self-styled godman. The judgement in the case will be pronounced inside the Jodhpur Central Jail. CBSE to hold Class 12 economics paper retest today The Central Board of Secondary Education will conduct a re-test of its Class 12 economics paper today, nearly a month after it was leaked triggering widespread outrage and confusion among students across India. Will pay a price like few countries have: Trump threatens Iran with retaliation if it restarts nuclear programme US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme. Anger against women reason for Toronto van attack? The man accused of plowing a rental van into pedestrians on a crowded Toronto sidewalk, killing 10 people in Canada's deadliest mass killing in decades, left a "cryptic message" on social media before his attack, police said on Tuesday. Champions League: Super Salah shines again as Liverpool defeat AS Roma in semi-final first leg Liverpool blew Roma's defence to pieces as the Reds beat the visitors 5-2 in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday at Anfield.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

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

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

Champions League: Match preview of Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich

Liverpool host giants-killer AS Roma in the first leg of Champions League semi-finals at Anfield on Wednesday 12:15 AM. AS Roma surprised everyone after defeating Barcelona in the quarterfinals by covering a 1-4 deficit in the second leg. Also, Liverpool have reached the semis without suffering a single defeat so far in the competition and to advance to the finals, Liverpool need to defeat Mohammed Salah's former club, AS Roma.

Mohammed Salah is one of the most important reasons for Liverpool's magnificent run. He has scored 41 goals in 46 appearances in all competitions for Juergen Klopp's Reds this season and was voted PFA Player of the Year by his peers on Sunday.

For Liverpool, Jordan Henderson is available once again after missing the Manchester City clash due to suspension, although Joel Matip, Emre Can and Adam Lallana are still recovering from injuries.

Roma rested key players such as Aleksandar Kolarov, Alessandro Florenzi, Edin Dzeko and Daniel De Rossi at the weekend, but have a fully fit squad to choose from.

Eusebio Di Francesco: "Kevin (Strootman) has become very Italian, very smart, very focused, I can assure you that we didn't prepare the match purely focused on (Mohamed) Salah. Salah is not here (at Roma) any more, but I can count on (Cengiz) Under, who's a young player, a skilled player, a great prospect, and my philosophy is to look forward, to move on. Once again, we didn't prepare the match focusing on individual players, but obviously we will give special attention to the best players, all of them, not only Salah."

Jurgen Klopp: "Most people in the football world thought the last four would be Bayern, Barcelona, Real Madrid and City. Barcelona are not here because of Rome and City are not here because of us. We both deserve to be here. Maybe a lot of people think the real final should be Real Madrid v Bayern Munich but that will not happen because they are in the other semi, so one of us will go through. We really feel the opportunity. It is a big thing. We came here with not a lot of expectation. We only came here expecting to win the games. People ask me if I feel pressure. No. I only feel opportunity. I am really happy to be here and to have another big night at Anfield."

Lineup (TBC):

Liverpool: Karius Alexander-Arnold, Lovren, van Dijk, Robertson Milner, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain Salah, Firmino, Mane.

AS Roma: &nbspAlisson J. Silva, Fazio, Manolas, Peres Pellegrini, Gonalons, Gerson Nainggolan, Schick, El Shaarawy.

Liverpool host giants-killer AS Roma in the first leg of Champions League semi-finals at Anfield

Liverpool host giants-killer AS Roma in the first leg of Champions League semi-finals at Anfield on Wednesday 12:15 AM. AS Roma surprised everyone after defeating Barcelona in the quarterfinals by covering a 1-4 deficit in the second leg. Also, Liverpool have reached the semis without suffering a single defeat so far in the competition and to advance to the finals, Liverpool need to defeat Mohammed Salah's former club, AS Roma. Mohammed Salah is one of the most important reasons for Liverpool's magnificent run. He has scored 41 goals in 46 appearances in all competitions for Juergen Klopp's Reds this season and was voted PFA Player of the Year by his peers on Sunday. For Liverpool, Jordan Henderson is available once again after missing the Manchester City clash due to suspension, although Joel Matip, Emre Can and Adam Lallana are still recovering from injuries. Roma rested key players such as Aleksandar Kolarov, Alessandro Florenzi, Edin Dzeko and Daniel De Rossi at the weekend, but have a fully fit squad to choose from. Eusebio Di Francesco: "Kevin (Strootman) has become very Italian, very smart, very focused, I can assure you that we didn't prepare the match purely focused on (Mohamed) Salah. Salah is not here (at Roma) any more, but I can count on (Cengiz) Under, who's a young player, a skilled player, a great prospect, and my philosophy is to look forward, to move on. Once again, we didn't prepare the match focusing on individual players, but obviously we will give special attention to the best players, all of them, not only Salah." Jurgen Klopp: "Most people in the football world thought the last four would be Bayern, Barcelona, Real Madrid and City. Barcelona are not here because of Rome and City are not here because of us. We both deserve to be here. Maybe a lot of people think the real final should be Real Madrid v Bayern Munich but that will not happen because they are in the other semi, so one of us will go through. We really feel the opportunity. It is a big thing. We came here with not a lot of expectation. We only came here expecting to win the games. People ask me if I feel pressure. No. I only feel opportunity. I am really happy to be here and to have another big night at Anfield." Lineup (TBC): Liverpool: Karius Alexander-Arnold, Lovren, van Dijk, Robertson Milner, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain Salah, Firmino, Mane. AS Roma: &nbspAlisson J. Silva, Fazio, Manolas, Peres Pellegrini, Gonalons, Gerson Nainggolan, Schick, El Shaarawy.

Champions League: Match preview of Liverpool vs AS Roma

Roma enjoyed a perfect dress rehearsal for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie with Liverpool when Radja Nainggolan and Patrick Schick struck after a Francesco Vicari own goal to give them a 3-0 win at SPAL in Serie A on Saturday.

The result left Roma third on 67 points from 34 games, three ahead of city rivals Lazio and four ahead of Inter Milan who both have a game in hand in the three-way battle for two Champions League slots.

With one eye on Tuesday’s clash with Liverpool at Anfield, Roma coach Eusebio di Francesco left the bulk of his regular starters on the bench and the makeshift side delivered with a classy performance at relegation-threatened SPAL.

After a cagey opening half-hour, Vicari fired Roma ahead in the 33rd minute when he poked the ball into his own net from seven metres in an attempt to divert a Lorenzo Pellegrini pass to the advancing Kevin Strootman.

SPAL keeper Alex Meret made two fine saves before halftime but was powerless in the 52nd minute, when Nainggolan unleashed a swerving volley into the bottom right corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Pellegrini provided another superb assist in the 59th for Schick to head home from close range as Roma turned on the heat, with Stephan El Shaarawy missing several chances including a diving header which hit the post.&nbsp

Roma keeper Alison Becker was rarely called into action but made two good saves to deny Alberto Paloschi and Mirko Antenucci, leaving SPAL in 17th place on 29 points from 34 games, one ahead of Crotone who have a game in hand.&nbsp

In the day’s other matches, Sassuolo are at home to Fiorentina (1600 GMT) while AC Milan take on bottom team Benevento in the evening kick-off (1845 GMT).

The round’s stand-out fixture is Sunday’s potential title showdown as champions and leaders Juventus (85 points) take on second-placed Napoli (81) at home.

Roma enjoyed a perfect dress rehearsal for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final

Roma enjoyed a perfect dress rehearsal for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie with Liverpool when Radja Nainggolan and Patrick Schick struck after a Francesco Vicari own goal to give them a 3-0 win at SPAL in Serie A on Saturday. The result left Roma third on 67 points from 34 games, three ahead of city rivals Lazio and four ahead of Inter Milan who both have a game in hand in the three-way battle for two Champions League slots. With one eye on Tuesday’s clash with Liverpool at Anfield, Roma coach Eusebio di Francesco left the bulk of his regular starters on the bench and the makeshift side delivered with a classy performance at relegation-threatened SPAL. After a cagey opening half-hour, Vicari fired Roma ahead in the 33rd minute when he poked the ball into his own net from seven metres in an attempt to divert a Lorenzo Pellegrini pass to the advancing Kevin Strootman. SPAL keeper Alex Meret made two fine saves before halftime but was powerless in the 52nd minute, when Nainggolan unleashed a swerving volley into the bottom right corner from the edge of the penalty area. Pellegrini provided another superb assist in the 59th for Schick to head home from close range as Roma turned on the heat, with Stephan El Shaarawy missing several chances including a diving header which hit the post. Roma keeper Alison Becker was rarely called into action but made two good saves to deny Alberto Paloschi and Mirko Antenucci, leaving SPAL in 17th place on 29 points from 34 games, one ahead of Crotone who have a game in hand. In the day’s other matches, Sassuolo are at home to Fiorentina (1600 GMT) while AC Milan take on bottom team Benevento in the evening kick-off (1845 GMT). The round’s stand-out fixture is Sunday’s potential title showdown as champions and leaders Juventus (85 points) take on second-placed Napoli (81) at home.

Roma warm up for Liverpool clash with 3-0 win at SPAL

Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal will undergo minor knee surgery after picking up an injury during training and will be out for a short period of time, coach Jupp Heynckes said on Monday.

The 30-year-old Chile international is now sidelined for Tuesday's German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen and is also unlikely to make their Champions League semi-final first leg against Real Madrid next week.

Bayern are chasing a treble of titles having already secured the Bundesliga crown.

"He slipped and turned his knee," Heynckes said of Vidal's injury in training on Sunday.

"I talked with the doctor. He did a scan. Arturo will need to undergo a minor arthroscopic surgery. He is already on his way to Augsburg. He is now ruled out for the short-term for sure."

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No <a href="https://twitter.com/kingarturo23?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kingarturo23</a> 
for trip to Leverkusen. 
 
Get well soon, Arturo! 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/YbKdPbp4BT">https://t.co/YbKdPbp4BT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/B04FCB?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#B04FCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/kNNWBbaWeq">pic.twitter.com/kNNWBbaWeq</a>
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/985833606634463232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

The 30-year-old Chile international is now sidelined for Tuesday's German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen

Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal will undergo minor knee surgery after picking up an injury during training and will be out for a short period of time, coach Jupp Heynckes said on Monday. The 30-year-old Chile international is now sidelined for Tuesday's German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen and is also unlikely to make their Champions League semi-final first leg against Real Madrid next week. Bayern are chasing a treble of titles having already secured the Bundesliga crown. "He slipped and turned his knee," Heynckes said of Vidal's injury in training on Sunday. "I talked with the doctor. He did a scan. Arturo will need to undergo a minor arthroscopic surgery. He is already on his way to Augsburg. He is now ruled out for the short-term for sure." No @kingarturo23 for trip to Leverkusen. Get well soon, Arturo! ➡️ https://t.co/YbKdPbp4BT #MiaSanMia #B04FCB pic.twitter.com/kNNWBbaWeq — FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) April 16, 2018 ×

Bayern's Vidal to undergo knee surgery, may miss Champions League semis against Real

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

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

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

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

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Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sat through the second day of hearing with US senators answering questions on data leaks but most of the answers and questions fielded by lawmakers ended inconclusively with both sides unable to set a timeline and failing to reach a consensus over privacy legislation.

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The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday ordered registration of an FIR against BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in connection with the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman in Unnao district.

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Real Madrid's star striker Cristiano Ronaldo had the final say in the crucial Champions League quarter-finals against &nbsp;Juventus scoring an injury-time penalty to send his team into the semi-finals of the premier club championship on Wednesday.

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Telugu actress Sri Reddy revealed last night, what could be the biggest casting couch scandal of South Indian cinema. Leaking intimate pictures of herself engaged with top South Indian film producer Abhiram Daggubati -- she claims that the latter forced her to perform sex with him in exchange for casting her in films.&nbsp;

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Rajasthan celebrated their return to the 'fortress' with a 10-run win over Delhi in the rain-hit Indian Premier League contest here tonight.

 
&nbsp;

As Facebook CEO, you don't know some key facts: US lawmaker to Mark Zuckerberg Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg sat through the second day of hearing with US senators answering questions on data leaks but most of the answers and questions fielded by lawmakers ended inconclusively with both sides unable to set a timeline and failing to reach a consensus over privacy legislation. UP government orders FIR against BJP MLA Unnao rape case handed over to CBI The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday ordered registration of an FIR against BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in connection with the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman in Unnao district. Champions League: Ronaldo's penalty ensures Juventus exit, Real Madrid enter semi-final Real Madrid's star striker Cristiano Ronaldo had the final say in the crucial Champions League quarter-finals against Juventus scoring an injury-time penalty to send his team into the semi-finals of the premier club championship on Wednesday. Telugu actress Sri Reddy strips, alleges Rana Daggubati's brother forced her to have sex with him Telugu actress Sri Reddy revealed last night, what could be the biggest casting couch scandal of South Indian cinema. Leaking intimate pictures of herself engaged with top South Indian film producer Abhiram Daggubati -- she claims that the latter forced her to perform sex with him in exchange for casting her in films. IPL 2018: Rajasthan make winning return to 'fortress', beat Delhi by 10 runs Rajasthan celebrated their return to the 'fortress' with a 10-run win over Delhi in the rain-hit Indian Premier League contest here tonight.

WION morning news brief, April 12, 2018

Real Madrid's star striker<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-manager-charged-with-improper-conduct-after-liverpool-defeat-129905"> Cristiano Ronaldo had the final say </a>in the crucial Champions League quarter-finals against &nbspJuventus scoring an&nbspinjury-time penalty to send his team into the semi-finals of the premier club championship on Wednesday.

Real who on top in aggregate goals after an impressive 3-0 win in Turin last week found themselves looking down the barrel falling behind in the match after Mario Mandzukic struck twice and Blaise Matuidi made it level on aggregate. The goals cancelled out Real's advantage.

Juventus though could not convert their good fortune into victory as Lucas Vazquez won a penalty in the dying moments of the game and captain Gianluigi Buffon was given a red card for venting his ire on the referee Michael Oliver.

Ronaldo's penalty kick proved too hot for substitute goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. The Portuguese star once again helped&nbsphis team to enter the last four which was Real Madrid's eight consecutive entry into the Champions League semi-finals.

"This referee has no heart, he has a garbage bag instead of a heart," Buffon told Italian channel Mediaset Premium after the match.&nbsp

"If you do not have personality and courage, you should go to the stands to watch the match with your wife and a Sprite.”&nbsp

Juventus though could not convert their good fortune into victory

Real Madrid's star striker Cristiano Ronaldo had the final say in the crucial Champions League quarter-finals against &nbspJuventus scoring an&nbspinjury-time penalty to send his team into the semi-finals of the premier club championship on Wednesday. Real who on top in aggregate goals after an impressive 3-0 win in Turin last week found themselves looking down the barrel falling behind in the match after Mario Mandzukic struck twice and Blaise Matuidi made it level on aggregate. The goals cancelled out Real's advantage. Juventus though could not convert their good fortune into victory as Lucas Vazquez won a penalty in the dying moments of the game and captain Gianluigi Buffon was given a red card for venting his ire on the referee Michael Oliver. Ronaldo's penalty kick proved too hot for substitute goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny. The Portuguese star once again helped&nbsphis team to enter the last four which was Real Madrid's eight consecutive entry into the Champions League semi-finals. "This referee has no heart, he has a garbage bag instead of a heart," Buffon told Italian channel Mediaset Premium after the match. "If you do not have personality and courage, you should go to the stands to watch the match with your wife and a Sprite.”

Champions League: Ronaldo's penalty ensures Juventus exit, Real Madrid enter semi-final

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been charged with improper conduct after being sent to the stands in Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat by Liverpool.

UEFA confirmed the same&nbsp;on Wednesday.

the incident happened when Pep protested about forward Leroy Sane's disallowed goal at the end of the first half in the quarter-final second leg and was dismissed by referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz.

The Spanish manager was charged for communicating with the team's technical staff in the second half.

UEFA also charged Liverpool after their fans set off fireworks and threw objects inside the Etihad Stadium.

The case will be heard by UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on May 31.

Liverpool completed a 5-1 aggregate victory to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Pep was charged for communicating with the team's technical staff

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been charged with improper conduct after being sent to the stands in Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat by Liverpool. UEFA confirmed the same on Wednesday. the incident happened when Pep protested about forward Leroy Sane's disallowed goal at the end of the first half in the quarter-final second leg and was dismissed by referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz. The Spanish manager was charged for communicating with the team's technical staff in the second half. UEFA also charged Liverpool after their fans set off fireworks and threw objects inside the Etihad Stadium. The case will be heard by UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on May 31. Liverpool completed a 5-1 aggregate victory to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.

Man City manager Guardiola charged with improper conduct after Liverpool defeat

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indian-economy-to-grow-at-73-per-cent-this-fiscal-76-per-cent-in-2019-20-asian-development-bank-129728'">Indian economy to grow at 7.3 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indian-economy-to-grow-at-73-per-cent-this-fiscal-76-per-cent-in-2019-20-asian-development-bank-129728'">per cent</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indian-economy-to-grow-at-73-per-cent-this-fiscal-76-per-cent-in-2019-20-asian-development-bank-129728'"> this fiscal, 7.6 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indian-economy-to-grow-at-73-per-cent-this-fiscal-76-per-cent-in-2019-20-asian-development-bank-129728'">per cent</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/indian-economy-to-grow-at-73-per-cent-this-fiscal-76-per-cent-in-2019-20-asian-development-bank-129728'"> in 2019-20: Asian Development Bank</a>

Manila-based Asian Development Bank(ADB) today projected India's economic growth to pick up to 7.3 per cent this fiscal.

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Embattled Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg faced a US congressional committee over data leak to Cambridge Analytica on Tuesday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with BJP lawmakers will be observing a day-long fast on Thursday in Delhi against the recent Parliment washout by the opposition parties.&nbsp;

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Ravindra Jadeja hit a six at the second last ball of the match to give Chennai its second win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018.&nbsp;

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AS Roma made a historic comeback in the Champions League encounter against Barcelona dumping the former champions with an impressive 3-0 scoreline.

Indian economy to grow at 7.3 per cent this fiscal, 7.6 per cent in 2019-20: Asian Development Bank Manila-based Asian Development Bank(ADB) today projected India's economic growth to pick up to 7.3 per cent this fiscal. Facebook needs to do more to stop hate speech in Myanmar,' says Zuckerberg to US lawmakers Embattled Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg faced a US congressional committee over data leak to Cambridge Analytica on Tuesday. PM Modi, BJP lawmakers to fast tomorrow over Parliament 'washout' Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with BJP lawmakers will be observing a day-long fast on Thursday in Delhi against the recent Parliment washout by the opposition parties. IPL 2018: Jadeja hits second last ball six to give Chennai its 2nd win Ravindra Jadeja hit a six at the second last ball of the match to give Chennai its second win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018. Champions League: Roma crush Barcelona, enter semi-final AS Roma made a historic comeback in the Champions League encounter against Barcelona dumping the former champions with an impressive 3-0 scoreline.

WION Morning News Brief,  April 11, 2018

Coach Juergen Klopp’s Liverpool beat Pep Guardiola's Manchester City 2-1 in an all-English encounter at the Etihad&nbspstadium to enter the semi-finals of the Champions League.

City who were already trailing 3-0 from the first leg failed to stop Klopp’s team as Salah and Firmino put the rampant Liverpool team into the&nbspnext stage of Europe's premier league.

"It was quite difficult tonight, especially with the start," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said.

"This wonderful goal that we served them on a plate. I was expecting something like that but I liked the reaction immediately after that. They could’ve scored two or three goals in the first half but it was 100 percent clear that if we win the ball we’d have an opportunity," an elated Klopp added.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola had a difficult match which was made worse after protests over Sane's disallowed goal resulted in him being sent to the stands for the second half.

"In this competition, the teams are so equal and the influence of refereeing decisions is so important," Pep said after the match. 
&nbsp

City who were already trailing 3-0 from the first leg failed to stop Klopp’s team

Coach Juergen Klopp’s Liverpool beat Pep Guardiola's Manchester City 2-1 in an all-English encounter at the Etihad&nbspstadium to enter the semi-finals of the Champions League. City who were already trailing 3-0 from the first leg failed to stop Klopp’s team as Salah and Firmino put the rampant Liverpool team into the&nbspnext stage of Europe's premier league. "It was quite difficult tonight, especially with the start," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said. "This wonderful goal that we served them on a plate. I was expecting something like that but I liked the reaction immediately after that. They could’ve scored two or three goals in the first half but it was 100 percent clear that if we win the ball we’d have an opportunity," an elated Klopp added. Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola had a difficult match which was made worse after protests over Sane's disallowed goal resulted in him being sent to the stands for the second half. "In this competition, the teams are so equal and the influence of refereeing decisions is so important," Pep said after the match.

Champions League: Liverpool's Salah, Firmino outlast Manchester City

AS Roma made a historic comeback in the Champions League encounter against Barcelona dumping the former champions with an impressive 3-0 scoreline.

The hosts&nbsp;overcome&nbsp;a 4-1 deficit from the first game at&nbsp;Nou Camp to reach the last four on away goals reaching&nbsp;the&nbsp;semi-finals for the first time since they reached the European Cup final in 1984.&nbsp;

Roma forward Edin Dzeko scored Roma's first goal beating the offside trap, captain De Rossi converted a penalty in the 58th for the hosts and Kostas Manolas headed the decisive third goal in the 82nd minute to put Roma in the semi-finals of the Champions League.

"This would be a great triumph for any team, but for Roma and considering our story in European competitions, it’s truly incredible," De Rossi said after the match.

"We knew it would be difficult, but we had that little bit of belief. The first leg showed us Barcelona had a lot of quality, but not as much as a few years ago. We knew the gap between us and them wasn’t 4-1," an elated Rossi said.

Crestfallen Barcelona coach Valverde said: "We weren’t capable in any moment of getting in the game because of how they approached the game.''

"They were very strong with second balls and we aren't used to defending like that," the Barcelona coach said. 
&nbsp;

Barca fielded the team that thrashed Roma in the first leg with the help of two own goals

AS Roma made a historic comeback in the Champions League encounter against Barcelona dumping the former champions with an impressive 3-0 scoreline. The hosts overcome a 4-1 deficit from the first game at Nou Camp to reach the last four on away goals reaching the semi-finals for the first time since they reached the European Cup final in 1984. Roma forward Edin Dzeko scored Roma's first goal beating the offside trap, captain De Rossi converted a penalty in the 58th for the hosts and Kostas Manolas headed the decisive third goal in the 82nd minute to put Roma in the semi-finals of the Champions League. "This would be a great triumph for any team, but for Roma and considering our story in European competitions, it’s truly incredible," De Rossi said after the match. "We knew it would be difficult, but we had that little bit of belief. The first leg showed us Barcelona had a lot of quality, but not as much as a few years ago. We knew the gap between us and them wasn’t 4-1," an elated Rossi said. Crestfallen Barcelona coach Valverde said: "We weren’t capable in any moment of getting in the game because of how they approached the game.'' "They were very strong with second balls and we aren't used to defending like that," the Barcelona coach said.

Champions League: Roma crush Barcelona, enter semi-final

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the&nbspChampions League&nbspone day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Reds are sweating on the fitness of striker Mohamed Salah.

A hitherto spectacular second season under Guardiola for City has unravelled in the past week as they were thrashed at Anfield in the first leg, and then let a 2-0 lead slip with the chance to seal the Premier&nbspLeaguetitle against Manchester United in a 3-2 derby defeat on Saturday.

Even if City go out, Guardiola could badly do with them winning at least the match to restore battered morale ahead of a tough&nbspleague&nbspmatch with in-form Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend with the Premier&nbspLeague&nbsptitle theirs for the taking.

The trouble for Guardiola is even if Salah -- who scored his 38th goal of the season in the first leg before limping off -- is not able to play a role, Liverpool have enough firepower up front in the shape of Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane to hurt City.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on Monday Salah was more of a 'yes' than a 'no' for the trip to the Etihad, though whether he plays will only be decided later on Tuesday.

More encouraging for Liverpool fans is that Guardiola has lost six times in the knockout stages and four of the teams who bested him went on to lift the trophy.

The Spaniard believes that were his team to pull off an extraordinary comeback it would take Abu Dhabi-backed City -- who have only reached the last four of the competition once -- to another level.

"I know we are judged on results, but on the performances my team is extraordinary. It is not comparable for many others, it's top," Guardiola, whose side still boast a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier&nbspLeague, said.

"They are exceptional, so I will be close to them no matter what happens between now and the end of the season. It's a joy to be manager of this team, even three days ago the way we played."

- 'I'm never nervous' -

One area of hope for Guardiola is that Liverpool's Achilles heel has been its defence although Dutchman Virgil van Dijk has added some steel since joining from Southampton.

The Dutch captain will be examined to the full at the Etihad, though, where Liverpool were thrashed 5-0 earlier in the season, albeit before Van Dijk joined from Southampton.

Klopp's men were also crushed 4-1 by Tottenham and involved in thrilling 3-3 draws at Arsenal and Sevilla as they were routinely torn apart on their toughest travels, before the addition of the tall Dutchman.

Van Dijk, though, says he is not nervous at all about the impending clash -- indeed, if anything, the 26-year-old admits to being too relaxed.

"I always have been, sometimes a little too much," &nbspvan Dijk told journalists.

"Sometimes that cost me back in the day. What we do as players is something you need to enjoy.

"I'm never nervous.

"I'm just excited. I think, 'Look where I am. Playing for the semi-finals of the&nbspChampions&nbspLeague&nbspwith my team. Just enjoy it and love it.'"

Van Dijk will do well to remain so relaxed given he faces a City attack bolstered by the likes of Sergio Aguero, who missed the traumatic United defeat, and Kevin De Bruyne, who only came on as a second-half substitute.&nbsp

If Guardiola is to seek inspiration in terms of a miraculous comeback, then United set him an example last Saturday of how quickly a match can turn on its head.

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the Champions League one day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the&nbspChampions League&nbspone day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Reds are sweating on the fitness of striker Mohamed Salah. A hitherto spectacular second season under Guardiola for City has unravelled in the past week as they were thrashed at Anfield in the first leg, and then let a 2-0 lead slip with the chance to seal the Premier&nbspLeaguetitle against Manchester United in a 3-2 derby defeat on Saturday. Even if City go out, Guardiola could badly do with them winning at least the match to restore battered morale ahead of a tough&nbspleague&nbspmatch with in-form Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend with the Premier&nbspLeague&nbsptitle theirs for the taking. The trouble for Guardiola is even if Salah -- who scored his 38th goal of the season in the first leg before limping off -- is not able to play a role, Liverpool have enough firepower up front in the shape of Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane to hurt City. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on Monday Salah was more of a 'yes' than a 'no' for the trip to the Etihad, though whether he plays will only be decided later on Tuesday. More encouraging for Liverpool fans is that Guardiola has lost six times in the knockout stages and four of the teams who bested him went on to lift the trophy. The Spaniard believes that were his team to pull off an extraordinary comeback it would take Abu Dhabi-backed City -- who have only reached the last four of the competition once -- to another level. "I know we are judged on results, but on the performances my team is extraordinary. It is not comparable for many others, it's top," Guardiola, whose side still boast a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier&nbspLeague, said. "They are exceptional, so I will be close to them no matter what happens between now and the end of the season. It's a joy to be manager of this team, even three days ago the way we played." - 'I'm never nervous' - One area of hope for Guardiola is that Liverpool's Achilles heel has been its defence although Dutchman Virgil van Dijk has added some steel since joining from Southampton. The Dutch captain will be examined to the full at the Etihad, though, where Liverpool were thrashed 5-0 earlier in the season, albeit before Van Dijk joined from Southampton. Klopp's men were also crushed 4-1 by Tottenham and involved in thrilling 3-3 draws at Arsenal and Sevilla as they were routinely torn apart on their toughest travels, before the addition of the tall Dutchman. Van Dijk, though, says he is not nervous at all about the impending clash -- indeed, if anything, the 26-year-old admits to being too relaxed. "I always have been, sometimes a little too much," &nbspvan Dijk told journalists. "Sometimes that cost me back in the day. What we do as players is something you need to enjoy. "I'm never nervous. "I'm just excited. I think, 'Look where I am. Playing for the semi-finals of the&nbspChampions&nbspLeague&nbspwith my team. Just enjoy it and love it.'" Van Dijk will do well to remain so relaxed given he faces a City attack bolstered by the likes of Sergio Aguero, who missed the traumatic United defeat, and Kevin De Bruyne, who only came on as a second-half substitute. If Guardiola is to seek inspiration in terms of a miraculous comeback, then United set him an example last Saturday of how quickly a match can turn on its head.

Champions League: Pep Guardiola dreams of miracle, Klopp of holding City at bay

Barcelona capitalised on two disastrous own goals by AS Roma to thrash the Italian side 4-1 at the Nou Camp on Wednesday and take a huge step towards reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in three years.

Roma's captain Daniele De Rossi hit an unstoppable shot into his own net to break the deadlock in the 38th minute of what had been a delicately poised first leg and a second own goal 10 minutes into the second half, this time by Greek defender Kostas Manolas, stretched the runaway La Liga leaders' advantage.

Barca defender Gerard Pique piled misery on the Italians four minutes later, mopping up the rebound after Luis Suarez was thwarted by goalkeeper Alisson before Roma's top scorer Edin Dzeko struck at the right end to give his side faint hope of a turnaround in the second leg.

Suarez effectively vanquished those hopes, however, by notching his side's fourth goal three minutes from time, scoring for the first time in the Champions League in over a year.

"We weren't lucky, we hit the post a couple of times and the own goals happened because we kept on putting them under pressure, making sure the ball was in their area far more than ours," Pique told reporters.

"We played very well and that’s why we’ve got such a good result. It would have been better to not concede but we cannot complain, we have got a very good advantage."

Five-times European champions Barca are still unbeaten in La Liga and the Champions League and were overwhelming favourites against Eusebio Di Francesco's side, who are third in Serie A and have never gone beyond the quarter-finals since reaching the 1984 European Cup final.

Roma set up to cancel out Barca and had managed the game well and kept Lionel Messi quiet until De Rossi's untimely own goal, which came as the veteran midfielder tried to prevent the Argentine forward reaching a pass from Andres Iniesta.

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Luis Suárez has 8 goals in his last 11 matches for club and country. ???<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/V6E4H7fkXn">pic.twitter.com/V6E4H7fkXn</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/981629621526515712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Free Header

Dzeko could have won a penalty in the ninth minute when he was pushed over by Nelson Semedo and winger Diego Perotti failed to hit the target from a free header at the start of the second half when they were only a goal down.

Italian forward Lorenzo Pellegrini was also brought down by Samuel Umtiti at the end of the first half, with the referee giving a free kick on the edge of the area rather than the penalty Roma appealed for.

"Of course we made mistakes, but Barca are a good enough team without receiving help from the referee," Di Francesco said.

The visitors suddenly came alive after Pique’s goal had given them a near-impossible task, however.

Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen nearly gifted them a goal when he darted from his area and lost possession but the German recovered to make a brilliant save to deny Roma substitute Gregoire Defrel and he tipped over a long-range strike from the Frenchman a minute later.

Dzeko's close-range finish could have been a rallying cry for the Italians but Suarez showed no mercy down the other end, pouncing on a failed clearance by Federico Fazio and hammering in his first European goal in his last 11 games.

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Barcelona in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a>: 
 
1992 ? 
2006 ? 
2009 ? 
2011 ? 
2015 ? 
2018 ? <a href="https://t.co/KEAJXTWqPO">pic.twitter.com/KEAJXTWqPO</a>
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FC Barcelona capitalised on two disastrous own goals by AS Roma to thrash the Italian side 4-1 at the Nou Camp

Barcelona capitalised on two disastrous own goals by AS Roma to thrash the Italian side 4-1 at the Nou Camp on Wednesday and take a huge step towards reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in three years. Roma's captain Daniele De Rossi hit an unstoppable shot into his own net to break the deadlock in the 38th minute of what had been a delicately poised first leg and a second own goal 10 minutes into the second half, this time by Greek defender Kostas Manolas, stretched the runaway La Liga leaders' advantage. Barca defender Gerard Pique piled misery on the Italians four minutes later, mopping up the rebound after Luis Suarez was thwarted by goalkeeper Alisson before Roma's top scorer Edin Dzeko struck at the right end to give his side faint hope of a turnaround in the second leg. Suarez effectively vanquished those hopes, however, by notching his side's fourth goal three minutes from time, scoring for the first time in the Champions League in over a year. "We weren't lucky, we hit the post a couple of times and the own goals happened because we kept on putting them under pressure, making sure the ball was in their area far more than ours," Pique told reporters. "We played very well and that’s why we’ve got such a good result. It would have been better to not concede but we cannot complain, we have got a very good advantage." Five-times European champions Barca are still unbeaten in La Liga and the Champions League and were overwhelming favourites against Eusebio Di Francesco's side, who are third in Serie A and have never gone beyond the quarter-finals since reaching the 1984 European Cup final. Roma set up to cancel out Barca and had managed the game well and kept Lionel Messi quiet until De Rossi's untimely own goal, which came as the veteran midfielder tried to prevent the Argentine forward reaching a pass from Andres Iniesta. Luis Suárez has 8 goals in his last 11 matches for club and country. ???#UCL pic.twitter.com/V6E4H7fkXn — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 4, 2018 × Free Header Dzeko could have won a penalty in the ninth minute when he was pushed over by Nelson Semedo and winger Diego Perotti failed to hit the target from a free header at the start of the second half when they were only a goal down. Italian forward Lorenzo Pellegrini was also brought down by Samuel Umtiti at the end of the first half, with the referee giving a free kick on the edge of the area rather than the penalty Roma appealed for. "Of course we made mistakes, but Barca are a good enough team without receiving help from the referee," Di Francesco said. The visitors suddenly came alive after Pique’s goal had given them a near-impossible task, however. Barca goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen nearly gifted them a goal when he darted from his area and lost possession but the German recovered to make a brilliant save to deny Roma substitute Gregoire Defrel and he tipped over a long-range strike from the Frenchman a minute later. Dzeko's close-range finish could have been a rallying cry for the Italians but Suarez showed no mercy down the other end, pouncing on a failed clearance by Federico Fazio and hammering in his first European goal in his last 11 games. Barcelona in the #UCL: 1992 ? 2006 ? 2009 ? 2011 ? 2015 ? 2018 ? pic.twitter.com/KEAJXTWqPO — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 4, 2018 ×

Champions League: FC Barcelona defeat AS Roma in quarter-finals 1st leg

Liverpool ripped apart Manchester City with three goals inside the opening 31 minutes as they won their Champions League quarter-final, first leg tie 3-0 on Wednesday.

Anfield has witnessed many memorable European nights over the years and this will take its place among the most spectacular as a simply devastating, first-half display was crowned with goals from Mohamed Salah, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sadio Mane.

The tie may not be over, with 90 minutes remaining at the Etihad on Tuesday, but Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp, who has enjoyed more wins over City counterpart Pep Guardiola than any other manager, will be delighted as his commitment to attacking football was amply rewarded.

Liverpool are the only team to have beaten City in the Premier League this season, with a thrilling 4-3 victory in January, and they repeated the formula of that success by attacking City’s defence from the outset.

Roared on by a particularly vocal home crowd, Liverpool put the Premier League’s champions-elect under intense pressure from the first kick and it took just 12 minutes for City to crack.

After a City corner, James Milner launched the ball forward, Salah broke from the halfway line and played the ball inside to Roberto Firmino.

His shot was blocked by City keeper Ederson but Firmino pounced on the loose ball and slipped it to Salah, who fired home.

City responded with a swift counter-attack of their own but Leroy Sane, who had broken from deep, screwed the ball wide when he could have played in team mate Kevin De Bruyne.

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Enjoy that, Liverpool fans? ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/S7kWI6JF0J">pic.twitter.com/S7kWI6JF0J</a>
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Unstoppable Drive

Liverpool were rampant though and harrying City off the ball in midfield when Milner won back possession and moved it straight to Oxlade-Chamberlain.

The former Arsenal midfielder unleashed an unstoppable drive from 25 metres to make it 2-0 in the 20th minute.

City were now reeling and looked nothing like the team that has marched so convincingly to a 16-point lead in the Premier League and it was not long before Juergen Klopp’s side made it 3-0.

Salah floated a teasing cross from the right towards Mane, who rose above the City defence to power a header past Ederson and send the Anfield crowd into delirium.

City came out brightly after the break though, finally managing to find some composure with their passing.

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Liverpool were unable to get back into their first-half rhythm and they suffered a blow when Salah went off injured in the 52nd minute.

Guardiola’s side were back in their familiar role of controlling possession but were struggling to create chances with Sane wasting a promising opening at the back post, one of a series of frustrations for the German left winger.

A miserable night for Sane, who was superbly handled by young Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, was completed when he was ruled offside as he broke down the left and crossed for Gabriel Jesus to put the ball in the net.

Yet the fact that City’s late pressure was accompanied by audible tension from the Liverpool fans was a reminder that the tie is not over. Few teams could overturn a 3-0 deficit against Liverpool but Guardiola’s side is certainly one of them.

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Liverpool ripped apart Manchester City with three goals inside the opening 31 minutes as they won their Champions League quarter-final, first leg tie 3-0

Liverpool ripped apart Manchester City with three goals inside the opening 31 minutes as they won their Champions League quarter-final, first leg tie 3-0 on Wednesday. Anfield has witnessed many memorable European nights over the years and this will take its place among the most spectacular as a simply devastating, first-half display was crowned with goals from Mohamed Salah, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sadio Mane. The tie may not be over, with 90 minutes remaining at the Etihad on Tuesday, but Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp, who has enjoyed more wins over City counterpart Pep Guardiola than any other manager, will be delighted as his commitment to attacking football was amply rewarded. Liverpool are the only team to have beaten City in the Premier League this season, with a thrilling 4-3 victory in January, and they repeated the formula of that success by attacking City’s defence from the outset. Roared on by a particularly vocal home crowd, Liverpool put the Premier League’s champions-elect under intense pressure from the first kick and it took just 12 minutes for City to crack. After a City corner, James Milner launched the ball forward, Salah broke from the halfway line and played the ball inside to Roberto Firmino. His shot was blocked by City keeper Ederson but Firmino pounced on the loose ball and slipped it to Salah, who fired home. City responded with a swift counter-attack of their own but Leroy Sane, who had broken from deep, screwed the ball wide when he could have played in team mate Kevin De Bruyne. Enjoy that, Liverpool fans? ?#UCL pic.twitter.com/S7kWI6JF0J — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 4, 2018 × Unstoppable Drive Liverpool were rampant though and harrying City off the ball in midfield when Milner won back possession and moved it straight to Oxlade-Chamberlain. The former Arsenal midfielder unleashed an unstoppable drive from 25 metres to make it 2-0 in the 20th minute. City were now reeling and looked nothing like the team that has marched so convincingly to a 16-point lead in the Premier League and it was not long before Juergen Klopp’s side made it 3-0. Salah floated a teasing cross from the right towards Mane, who rose above the City defence to power a header past Ederson and send the Anfield crowd into delirium. City came out brightly after the break though, finally managing to find some composure with their passing. ? Liverpool heroes ?#UCL pic.twitter.com/wP5o7GpAaP — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 4, 2018 × Liverpool were unable to get back into their first-half rhythm and they suffered a blow when Salah went off injured in the 52nd minute. Guardiola’s side were back in their familiar role of controlling possession but were struggling to create chances with Sane wasting a promising opening at the back post, one of a series of frustrations for the German left winger. A miserable night for Sane, who was superbly handled by young Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, was completed when he was ruled offside as he broke down the left and crossed for Gabriel Jesus to put the ball in the net. Yet the fact that City’s late pressure was accompanied by audible tension from the Liverpool fans was a reminder that the tie is not over. Few teams could overturn a 3-0 deficit against Liverpool but Guardiola’s side is certainly one of them.

Champions League: Liverpool stun Manchester City with 3-0 win at Anfield

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