Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag insisted his side are going in the right direction despite a 3-3 draw at Galatasaray on Wednesday (Nov 29) that leaves the Red Devils on the brink of Champions League elimination.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag insisted his side are going in the right direction despite a 3-3 draw at Galatasaray on Wednesday (Nov 29) that leaves the Red Devils on the brink of Champions League elimination. United twice let a two-goal lead slip in Istanbul as costly errors from goalkeeper Andre Onana and poor finishing left them still bottom of Group A. Ten Hag's side need to beat Bayern Munich in their final match at Old Trafford to have any chance of qualifying. But even victory over the German champions will not be enough if Galatasaray beat FC Copenhagen in two weeks' time or the Danish champions take at least four points from their final two matches. "We are going in the right direction so I know we will be successful in the long-term but if you want to stay in the Champions League you need to win these games," said Ten Hag. "I was pleased with how we played but at the same time I have to criticise the team because the defending is not good enough. We are leading 3-1 and we cannot afford mistakes as it makes a difference." A huge banner unfurled before kick-off said "Welcome to Hell" but the vociferous Galatasaray crowd were silenced by two United goals inside 20 minutes. Alejandro Garnacho scored one of the all-time great Premier League goals with a stunning overhead kick to put United on course to victory at Everton on Sunday. The Argentine's opener was less spectacular but still impressive as he rifled into the roof of the net from Bruno Fernandes' pass. Fernandes then produced a powerful, dipping strike from outside the box that left Fernando Muslera helpless. United's five Champions League games this season have produced 26 goals. And failing to hold onto leads has been a recurring failing from Ten Hag's side. Twice Galatasaray came from behind at Old Trafford to secure their first Champions League away win for 10 years and they opened the door to the Turkish giants once more. Onana wrong-footed Fernandes was guilty of conceding a needless free-kick on the edge of his own box. But Onana must bear the bulk of the blame as he was too easily wrong-footed by his former Ajax teammate Hakim Ziyech, who fired into the bottom corner. United looked to have restored order at the start of the second period when Scott McTominay regained their two-goal cushion. Fernandes led a clinical counter-attack as he fed Aaron Wan-Bissaka down the right and his cross picked out McTominay to slide in his first Champions League goal. However, United were again pegged back by another glaring error from their goalkeeper. Onana earned his move to the Premier League off the back of excelling for Inter Milan on their run to last season's Champions League final. But the Cameroonian has repeatedly made errors for the Red Devils in Europe and Ziyech's second was arguably the worst of the lot. The Moroccan's free-kick was straight at Onana, who only conspired to punch the ball into his own net. To rub salt into United wounds, it inspired another Galatasaray fightback. Kerem Akturkoglu's perfect control and deadly accurate finish flew past Onana at his near post to level 19 minutes from time. United should still have emerged victorious as they picked the hosts off at will on the counter-attack but failed to take a raft of chances. Garnacho, McTominay and Facundo Pellestri all fired promising openings off target. Fernandes then struck the post with another wonderful strike from long range. "I think at the end of the game we had like four chances to score a goal," said Fernandes. "We have to put our heads up and sometimes it is about another pass, find the player that is free, trying to get the best one in the best position and not taking the chance ourselves." But United could also have lost and been mathematically eliminated on the night when Wilfried Zaha fired too close to Onana late on.

Manchester United on brink of another Champions League exit after Galatasaray fightback

VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski has withdrawn from the Champions League’s Wednesday (Nov 29) encounter between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg after a controversial call on Tuesday. Kwiatkowski, in the VAR hub for the Champions League clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United asked on-field referee Szymon Marciniak to head to the pitch-side monitor and award a penalty to PSG. The incident resulted in massive outrage as many including former players and referees believed it was a poor decision.

<h2>What was the controversy?</h2>

With the contest reaching its conclusion, it were the visitors Newcastle who were heading for a shock win as they led by 1-0 until the controversial moment arrived in the 98th minute. Tino Livramento touched the ball inside the penalty area, which looked accidental and not worthy of a penalty. However, in turn of moments VAR Kwiatkowski asked Marciniak to head to the pitch-side screen. After a long consultation, a penalty was awarded to PSG as they equalised to take control of their fate in the group.

Kwiatkowski, supposed to officiate as the VAR again on Wednesday withdrew before the match started with no official statement from the UEFA. It is understood, considering that a significant error was made, the UEFA was reluctant to face more backlash for another similar incident.

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Recently, Darren England, a Premier League VAR referee was also asked to withdraw after he gave a poor call over an offside decision. The impact of the call remained significant as Liverpool lost the match and also remains their only defeat of the Premier League campaign.

In Newcastle’s case, the error by the referee led to the penalty which was converted by Kylian Mbappe and saw PSG walk away with a point. The result had it gone in Eddie Howe’s side's favour could have seen them second in the standings with their fate in their own hands. As thing stand, PSG need to match Newcastle’s result to make it through to the last 16 while AC Milan await at St. James’ Park on the final matchday.

VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski has withdrawn from the Champions League’s Wednesday (Nov 29) encounter between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg after a controversial call on Tuesday.

VAR official Tomasz Kwiatkowski has withdrawn from the Champions League’s Wednesday (Nov 29) encounter between Real Sociedad and RB Salzburg after a controversial call on Tuesday. Kwiatkowski, in the VAR hub for the Champions League clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United asked on-field referee Szymon Marciniak to head to the pitch-side monitor and award a penalty to PSG. The incident resulted in massive outrage as many including former players and referees believed it was a poor decision. What was the controversy? With the contest reaching its conclusion, it were the visitors Newcastle who were heading for a shock win as they led by 1-0 until the controversial moment arrived in the 98th minute. Tino Livramento touched the ball inside the penalty area, which looked accidental and not worthy of a penalty. However, in turn of moments VAR Kwiatkowski asked Marciniak to head to the pitch-side screen. After a long consultation, a penalty was awarded to PSG as they equalised to take control of their fate in the group. Kwiatkowski, supposed to officiate as the VAR again on Wednesday withdrew before the match started with no official statement from the UEFA. It is understood, considering that a significant error was made, the UEFA was reluctant to face more backlash for another similar incident. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th T20: Weather and pitch report from Raipur ahead of India vs Australia 4th T20 match Recently, Darren England, a Premier League VAR referee was also asked to withdraw after he gave a poor call over an offside decision. The impact of the call remained significant as Liverpool lost the match and also remains their only defeat of the Premier League campaign. In Newcastle’s case, the error by the referee led to the penalty which was converted by Kylian Mbappe and saw PSG walk away with a point. The result had it gone in Eddie Howe’s side's favour could have seen them second in the standings with their fate in their own hands. As thing stand, PSG need to match Newcastle’s result to make it through to the last 16 while AC Milan await at St. James’ Park on the final matchday.

Champions League: VAR referee withdraws from duties after handball controversy in PSG vs Newcastle tie

Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Lazio all qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League on Tuesday.

Manchester City bounced back from 2-0 down to beat RB Leipzig with both teams already qualified, while Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle drew 1-1 and both need a result on matchday six to go through.

Atletico Madrid booked their place with a sumptuous volley from defender Mario Hermoso and two own goals firing them to a thrilling 3-1 win over Dutch champions Feyenoord.

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"I am very happy for the players. Today, we knew how difficult our opponent would be," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone to Movistar.

That left Atletico with 11 points in Group E ahead of 10-point Lazio, who had a tense wait after playing earlier and needing a Feyenoord defeat to confirm their place.

Veteran Italian striker Ciro Immobile shot the Italian side into the last-16 in a 2-0 win over eliminated Celtic in Rome, leaving Feyenoord to join the Europa League.

In Group H, Barcelona came from behind to beat Porto 2-1 as Portuguese duo Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix both netted to turn the game on its head after Brazilian winger Pepe opened for Porto.

"It was a final and we won it ... we've put the club in the last-16, which is where it deserves to be," Cancelo told Movistar.

The Spanish champions now have 12 points while Porto are locked on nine alongside Shakhtar Donetsk, who beat Antwerp 1-0 in Hamburg.

<h2>- Newcastle pay the penalty -</h2>

Borussia Dortmund secured their spot in the last-16 with a 3-1 win at AC Milan, who are staring early elimination in the face.

Marco Reus' early penalty and second-half strikes from English teenager Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Karim Adeyemi secured passage into the next round with a match to spare for Dortmund.

There was late drama at the Parc des Princes when a 98th-minute Kylian Mbappe penalty earned Paris Saint-Germain a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.

It looked as though Newcastle -- who won 4-1 when the sides met at St James' Park last month -- were going to leave Paris with all three points in the Group F encounter thanks to Alexander Isak's 24th-minute opener.

PSG had run out of ideas by the time they were gifted an opportunity to salvage a draw in injury time when the VAR decided a Tino Livramento handball in the box was worthy of a penalty.

Mbappe made no mistake from the spot, and PSG hold onto second place in the group behind Borussia Dortmund.

"I'm feeling very flat, but very proud of the players and their commitment levels," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe to TNT Sports.

Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Lazio all qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League on Tuesday. Manchester City bounced back from 2-0 down to beat RB Leipzig with both teams already qualified, while Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle drew 1-1 and both need a result on matchday six to go through.

Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Lazio all qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League on Tuesday. Manchester City bounced back from 2-0 down to beat RB Leipzig with both teams already qualified, while Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle drew 1-1 and both need a result on matchday six to go through. Atletico Madrid booked their place with a sumptuous volley from defender Mario Hermoso and two own goals firing them to a thrilling 3-1 win over Dutch champions Feyenoord. Also Read: Newcastle United manager rues penalty not given against PSG in Champions League game "I am very happy for the players. Today, we knew how difficult our opponent would be," said Atletico coach Diego Simeone to Movistar. That left Atletico with 11 points in Group E ahead of 10-point Lazio, who had a tense wait after playing earlier and needing a Feyenoord defeat to confirm their place. Veteran Italian striker Ciro Immobile shot the Italian side into the last-16 in a 2-0 win over eliminated Celtic in Rome, leaving Feyenoord to join the Europa League. In Group H, Barcelona came from behind to beat Porto 2-1 as Portuguese duo Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix both netted to turn the game on its head after Brazilian winger Pepe opened for Porto. "It was a final and we won it ... we've put the club in the last-16, which is where it deserves to be," Cancelo told Movistar. The Spanish champions now have 12 points while Porto are locked on nine alongside Shakhtar Donetsk, who beat Antwerp 1-0 in Hamburg. - Newcastle pay the penalty - Borussia Dortmund secured their spot in the last-16 with a 3-1 win at AC Milan, who are staring early elimination in the face. Marco Reus' early penalty and second-half strikes from English teenager Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Karim Adeyemi secured passage into the next round with a match to spare for Dortmund. There was late drama at the Parc des Princes when a 98th-minute Kylian Mbappe penalty earned Paris Saint-Germain a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United. It looked as though Newcastle -- who won 4-1 when the sides met at St James' Park last month -- were going to leave Paris with all three points in the Group F encounter thanks to Alexander Isak's 24th-minute opener. PSG had run out of ideas by the time they were gifted an opportunity to salvage a draw in injury time when the VAR decided a Tino Livramento handball in the box was worthy of a penalty. Mbappe made no mistake from the spot, and PSG hold onto second place in the group behind Borussia Dortmund. "I'm feeling very flat, but very proud of the players and their commitment levels," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe to TNT Sports.

Barcelona, Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Lazio enter Champions League last-16

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe hit out at the decision to award Paris Saint-Germain a last-gasp penalty that denied his team a Champions League win over the French club on Tuesday.

The Premier League side were leading 1-0 at the Parc des Princes thanks to Alexander Isak's 25th-minute goal, until Polish referee Szymon Marciniak awarded PSG a penalty deep in injury time following a VAR check for a handball by Tino Livramento.

The award appeared harsh, and Kylian Mbappe converted the spot-kick to earn PSG a 1-1 draw that changes the outlook for both clubs going into the final round of matches in Group F.

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"In my opinion, it wasn't the right decision," insisted Howe as he spoke to reporters after the game.

"It was a ricochet that when it is slowed down looks totally different to the live event.

"It hits his hand, but I don't think his hand is in an unnatural position. I feel it is a poor decision.

"It is hugely frustrating for us because at that moment you know how little time there is left in the game, but there is nothing we can do about it now."

A win would have taken Newcastle into their final group game at home to AC Milan next month with their fate in their own hands in terms of securing qualification for the last 16.

Instead, the draw leaves them in third place, and PSG will join the already-qualified Borussia Dortmund in going through if they win their last game in Germany.

Newcastle must beat Milan at St James' Park and also hope for a slip-up by PSG on the final matchday.

"I just feel for the players after what they have given and for how they have performed in very difficult circumstances, and what that decision does to the group because now the destiny is not with us," Howe added.

"That is tough to take after being so close to being in that position."

Newcastle's first Champions League campaign in two decades has so far been a story of ups and downs, with a 4-1 win at home to PSG last month being followed by consecutive losses against Dortmund before Tuesday's game.

"You have to look at what the players have given and I can't be deflated by what they have given tonight," said Howe, who was hoping to mark his 46th birthday on Wednesday with a victory.

Asked about his team's European campaign so far he added: "We have been thrown in at the deep end with the group, with high-class opposition, great stadiums and brilliant atmospheres.

"We are desperate to stay in the competition and show a better version of ourselves because I don't think people have seen that yet."

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe hit out at the decision to award Paris Saint-Germain a last-gasp penalty that denied his team a Champions League win over the French club on Tuesday.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe hit out at the decision to award Paris Saint-Germain a last-gasp penalty that denied his team a Champions League win over the French club on Tuesday. The Premier League side were leading 1-0 at the Parc des Princes thanks to Alexander Isak's 25th-minute goal, until Polish referee Szymon Marciniak awarded PSG a penalty deep in injury time following a VAR check for a handball by Tino Livramento. The award appeared harsh, and Kylian Mbappe converted the spot-kick to earn PSG a 1-1 draw that changes the outlook for both clubs going into the final round of matches in Group F. Also Read: 'India has a big passion for football': Tottenham Hotspur legend Ledley King "In my opinion, it wasn't the right decision," insisted Howe as he spoke to reporters after the game. "It was a ricochet that when it is slowed down looks totally different to the live event. "It hits his hand, but I don't think his hand is in an unnatural position. I feel it is a poor decision. "It is hugely frustrating for us because at that moment you know how little time there is left in the game, but there is nothing we can do about it now." A win would have taken Newcastle into their final group game at home to AC Milan next month with their fate in their own hands in terms of securing qualification for the last 16. Instead, the draw leaves them in third place, and PSG will join the already-qualified Borussia Dortmund in going through if they win their last game in Germany. Newcastle must beat Milan at St James' Park and also hope for a slip-up by PSG on the final matchday. "I just feel for the players after what they have given and for how they have performed in very difficult circumstances, and what that decision does to the group because now the destiny is not with us," Howe added. "That is tough to take after being so close to being in that position." Newcastle's first Champions League campaign in two decades has so far been a story of ups and downs, with a 4-1 win at home to PSG last month being followed by consecutive losses against Dortmund before Tuesday's game. "You have to look at what the players have given and I can't be deflated by what they have given tonight," said Howe, who was hoping to mark his 46th birthday on Wednesday with a victory. Asked about his team's European campaign so far he added: "We have been thrown in at the deep end with the group, with high-class opposition, great stadiums and brilliant atmospheres. "We are desperate to stay in the competition and show a better version of ourselves because I don't think people have seen that yet."

Newcastle United manager rues penalty not given against PSG in Champions League game

Record 14-time winners Real Madrid swanned into the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday with a comfortable 3-0 win over Braga to maintain their 100 percent record.

Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes were on target for the Spanish giants, who sealed progress from Group C even without rested top goalscorer Jude Bellingham.

Brazilian wingers Vinicius and Rodrygo have been criticised for their lack of goals this season and both responded with classy finishes to help send their team through after Diaz opened the scoring.&nbsp;

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Madrid have four wins from four games, leading the group on 12 points ahead of Napoli, second on seven after a 1-1 draw with bottom team Union Berlin.

Madrid have now reached the knock-out phase in 26 consecutive editions of the tournament.

"It tells me that Real Madrid have done better than others in this competition, because getting through the group is not always that simple," coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters.

"We are very happy to reach the last 16, but it doesn't mean we're going to switch off in the last two games because for us, all Champions League games are there to show our best level in."

Los Blancos goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga suffered an injury in the warm-up, with Andriy Lunin stepping in to replace him.

The Ukrainian was immediately called into action, diving to his right to palm away Alvaro Djalo's penalty in the sixth minute.

Lucas Vazquez had pulled Cristian Borja down in the area, but the Portuguese side could not take advantage from the spot.

At the other end Diaz had a goal ruled out for a foul by Vinicius, but the former Manchester City midfielder did not have to wait too long for another, this time valid.

Sent through on the left side of the area, Rodrygo cut the ball back to Diaz who fired into the roof of the net from close range to break the deadlock.

The 24-year-old broke out into sarcastic celebration, drawing a VAR screen as if to dare the officials to try and disallow this strike.

Diaz, operating in Bellingham's usual attacking midfield role, did well on a rare start and was involved in most of Madrid's forward moves.&nbsp;

Bellingham, who has netted 13 times in 14 games since his summer switch, watched on from the bench as Ancelotti let him recover from a shoulder problem he suffered in the Rayo draw.

Diaz should have struck again but was denied by a superb double save from Benfica goalkeeper Matheus early in the second half.

"I'm doing my thing and showing that I can perform, and help the coach," Diaz told reporters.

"There are very good players here but I'm showing that I can handle more minutes -- bit by bit, everything comes."

<h2>- Brazilian double act -</h2>

Vinicius netted the second before the hour mark, with some clever movement and footwork in the box and then a smooth low finish.

It was his fourth goal of the season across all competitions in 12 games, low by his own standards, but Ancelotti has predicted he and Rodrygo will outscore Bellingham by the end of the campaign.&nbsp;

Rodrygo netted Madrid's third with an exquisite chipped finish after his compatriot Vinicius played him in, and embraced Ancelotti on the sideline in celebration.

The coach had advocated patience for his dynamic duo up front and both paid him back with goals that delighted the Santiago Bernabeu.

"(The hug) was to thank him," Rodrygo explained. "We have to judge people when we're not in a good moment, then you see who they really are.

"I wasn't in a good moment, the coach was always with me, always supporting me, saying good things -- I was obliged to score and to go and thank him."

Lunin thwarted former Barcelona striker Abel Ruiz in stoppage time with an excellent save to keep out his header and preserve Madrid's clean sheet, ensuring it was a near-perfect night at both ends.

Record 14-time winners Real Madrid swanned into the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday with a comfortable 3-0 win over Braga to maintain their 100 percent record.

Record 14-time winners Real Madrid swanned into the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday with a comfortable 3-0 win over Braga to maintain their 100 percent record. Brahim Diaz, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes were on target for the Spanish giants, who sealed progress from Group C even without rested top goalscorer Jude Bellingham. Brazilian wingers Vinicius and Rodrygo have been criticised for their lack of goals this season and both responded with classy finishes to help send their team through after Diaz opened the scoring. Also Read: Man Utd on brink of Champions League exit after Copenhagen collapse Madrid have four wins from four games, leading the group on 12 points ahead of Napoli, second on seven after a 1-1 draw with bottom team Union Berlin. Madrid have now reached the knock-out phase in 26 consecutive editions of the tournament. "It tells me that Real Madrid have done better than others in this competition, because getting through the group is not always that simple," coach Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "We are very happy to reach the last 16, but it doesn't mean we're going to switch off in the last two games because for us, all Champions League games are there to show our best level in." Los Blancos goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga suffered an injury in the warm-up, with Andriy Lunin stepping in to replace him. The Ukrainian was immediately called into action, diving to his right to palm away Alvaro Djalo's penalty in the sixth minute. Lucas Vazquez had pulled Cristian Borja down in the area, but the Portuguese side could not take advantage from the spot. At the other end Diaz had a goal ruled out for a foul by Vinicius, but the former Manchester City midfielder did not have to wait too long for another, this time valid. Sent through on the left side of the area, Rodrygo cut the ball back to Diaz who fired into the roof of the net from close range to break the deadlock. The 24-year-old broke out into sarcastic celebration, drawing a VAR screen as if to dare the officials to try and disallow this strike. Diaz, operating in Bellingham's usual attacking midfield role, did well on a rare start and was involved in most of Madrid's forward moves. Bellingham, who has netted 13 times in 14 games since his summer switch, watched on from the bench as Ancelotti let him recover from a shoulder problem he suffered in the Rayo draw. Diaz should have struck again but was denied by a superb double save from Benfica goalkeeper Matheus early in the second half. "I'm doing my thing and showing that I can perform, and help the coach," Diaz told reporters. "There are very good players here but I'm showing that I can handle more minutes -- bit by bit, everything comes." - Brazilian double act - Vinicius netted the second before the hour mark, with some clever movement and footwork in the box and then a smooth low finish. It was his fourth goal of the season across all competitions in 12 games, low by his own standards, but Ancelotti has predicted he and Rodrygo will outscore Bellingham by the end of the campaign. Rodrygo netted Madrid's third with an exquisite chipped finish after his compatriot Vinicius played him in, and embraced Ancelotti on the sideline in celebration. The coach had advocated patience for his dynamic duo up front and both paid him back with goals that delighted the Santiago Bernabeu. "(The hug) was to thank him," Rodrygo explained. "We have to judge people when we're not in a good moment, then you see who they really are. "I wasn't in a good moment, the coach was always with me, always supporting me, saying good things -- I was obliged to score and to go and thank him." Lunin thwarted former Barcelona striker Abel Ruiz in stoppage time with an excellent save to keep out his header and preserve Madrid's clean sheet, ensuring it was a near-perfect night at both ends.

Champions League: 14-time winner Real Madrid walk past Braga to reach round of 16

Italian police said they had arrested 11 German football supporters in Naples after violent clashes on the eve of Wednesday's Champions League match between Napoli and Union Berlin.

Around 300 German ultras wearing red bandanas over their faces rampaged through the historic centre of the southern Italian city on Tuesday evening, police said in a statement.

They damaged parked cars and street furniture, devastated a local shop and attacked police officers with cobblestones, clubs, metal and wooden rods and firecrackers, it said.

Ten were arrested during the clashes, and belonged to "the most extremist ultras group of the visiting team's fans, as well as the fans of Borussia&nbsp;Moenchengladbach", a historic rival of Napoli which is twinned with Union Berlin, police said.

An 11th German fan was arrested in a separate incident in Naples, accused of violence towards a public official.

Wednesday's match kicks off at 6:45 pm (1745 GMT) at the Maradona Stadium in Naples.

Naples was also the scene of serious disorder before and after last season's Champions League last-16 clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, whose hardcore fans travelled to Italy despite a ticketing controversy which led to the German club not taking up their away allocation.

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Eight fans were arrested after clashes around Naples, with six police officers injured after being attacked with smoke bombs, flares, chairs, bottles and metal poles, while Napoli fans shot fireworks at the hundreds of Eintracht supporters who made the trip.

The Champions League match at AC Milan this week was also marred by violence, with a fan of Paris Sant-Germain stabbed on the eve of Tuesday's game, which the home side won 2-1.

Another PSG fan was also given a two-year stadium ban by local officials after being found in possession of a 22cm box cutter when entering the San Siro stadium for the match.

Italian police said they had arrested 11 German football supporters in Naples after violent clashes on the eve of Wednesday's Champions League match between Napoli and Union Berlin.

Italian police said they had arrested 11 German football supporters in Naples after violent clashes on the eve of Wednesday's Champions League match between Napoli and Union Berlin. Around 300 German ultras wearing red bandanas over their faces rampaged through the historic centre of the southern Italian city on Tuesday evening, police said in a statement. They damaged parked cars and street furniture, devastated a local shop and attacked police officers with cobblestones, clubs, metal and wooden rods and firecrackers, it said. Ten were arrested during the clashes, and belonged to "the most extremist ultras group of the visiting team's fans, as well as the fans of Borussia Moenchengladbach", a historic rival of Napoli which is twinned with Union Berlin, police said. An 11th German fan was arrested in a separate incident in Naples, accused of violence towards a public official. Wednesday's match kicks off at 6:45 pm (1745 GMT) at the Maradona Stadium in Naples. Naples was also the scene of serious disorder before and after last season's Champions League last-16 clash with Eintracht Frankfurt, whose hardcore fans travelled to Italy despite a ticketing controversy which led to the German club not taking up their away allocation. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: 'It was disappointing,' says Bangladesh bowling coach Donald on Shakib's time out appeal Eight fans were arrested after clashes around Naples, with six police officers injured after being attacked with smoke bombs, flares, chairs, bottles and metal poles, while Napoli fans shot fireworks at the hundreds of Eintracht supporters who made the trip. The Champions League match at AC Milan this week was also marred by violence, with a fan of Paris Sant-Germain stabbed on the eve of Tuesday's game, which the home side won 2-1. Another PSG fan was also given a two-year stadium ban by local officials after being found in possession of a 22cm box cutter when entering the San Siro stadium for the match.

Football: Eleven Germans arrested on eve of Napoli vs Union Berlin Champions League clash

Hooded attackers stabbed a Paris Saint-Germain supporter ahead of the French club's Champions League match at AC Milan, Italian police said Tuesday.

The unnamed French man was "seriously injured by two stab wounds in the leg" in Milan on Monday night and taken to hospital, police said in a statement.

The Corriere della Sera newspaper said the man was 34 years old and his life was not in danger.

Witnesses told police the clash happened between around 50 Milan fans and French fans who were in the Navigli area of the northern Italian city.

Video images on social media shared by Italian news sites show a group of men on a canal side known for its cafes, bars and nightlife.&nbsp;As flares are set off, they suddenly turn and run from another group of men, some of whom are wearing hoods and wielding what look like batons.

The attack comes less than two months after a Newcastle United supporter was stabbed in the same area of the city ahead of a Champions League fixture against Milan.

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Seven-time European champions Milan on Tuesday host PSG, who currently lead Group F by two points and will be favourites after hammering the Italians 3-0 at the Parc des Princes a fortnight ago.

An already hot atmosphere at the San Siro will be further enflamed by the return of Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left Milan for PSG as a free agent in the summer of 2021.

Tuesday's match could have a huge impact on both side's prospects of reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League as just four points separate the four teams in the group.

Milan are bottom of the group on two points after failing to score a single goal in their opening three matches.

Hooded attackers stabbed a Paris Saint-Germain supporter ahead of the French club's Champions League match at AC Milan, Italian police said Tuesday. The unnamed French man was "seriously injured by two stab wounds in the leg" in Milan on Monday night and taken to hospital, police said in a statement.

Hooded attackers stabbed a Paris Saint-Germain supporter ahead of the French club's Champions League match at AC Milan, Italian police said Tuesday. The unnamed French man was "seriously injured by two stab wounds in the leg" in Milan on Monday night and taken to hospital, police said in a statement. The Corriere della Sera newspaper said the man was 34 years old and his life was not in danger. Witnesses told police the clash happened between around 50 Milan fans and French fans who were in the Navigli area of the northern Italian city. Video images on social media shared by Italian news sites show a group of men on a canal side known for its cafes, bars and nightlife. As flares are set off, they suddenly turn and run from another group of men, some of whom are wearing hoods and wielding what look like batons. The attack comes less than two months after a Newcastle United supporter was stabbed in the same area of the city ahead of a Champions League fixture against Milan. ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh players REFUSE to shake hands after Mathews 'timed out' controversy Seven-time European champions Milan on Tuesday host PSG, who currently lead Group F by two points and will be favourites after hammering the Italians 3-0 at the Parc des Princes a fortnight ago. An already hot atmosphere at the San Siro will be further enflamed by the return of Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left Milan for PSG as a free agent in the summer of 2021. Tuesday's match could have a huge impact on both side's prospects of reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League as just four points separate the four teams in the group. Milan are bottom of the group on two points after failing to score a single goal in their opening three matches.

Football: PSG fan stabbed in Milan ahead of Champions League Group F clash

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made a stunning admission that his team will never play the style of football that he implemented during his previous 'successful' stint at Ajax.&nbsp;

Ten Hag's statement comes after his side were humbled in the Manchester derby by cross-city rivals. The defeat raised questions over Ten Hag's playing philosophy which has been seemingly non-existent during his time at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"Never. We will never play that football. Because those were different players. This is also not why I came here," said Ten Hag.&nbsp;

"That is not in the DNA of Manchester United at all. The football at Ajax is very typical, here we will play much more directly. We also have the players for that, especially at the forefront," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-unacceptable-united-manager-erik-ten-hag-unimpressed-after-performance-against-leeds-560280">Also read |&nbsp;'It's unacceptable...': United manager Erik Ten Hag unimpressed after performance against Leeds</a>

<h2>Ajax's impressive run&nbsp;</h2>

Despite being at the club for more than a year and having spent hundreds of millions of dollars&nbsp;on player transfers, United are far from having a cogent playing style. The team is unable to depict a set pattern of play, something which Ten Hag's compatriots like Ange Postecoglou, Unai Emery and Roberto De Zerbi have displayed, despite taking&nbsp;charge of their respective teams much later.&nbsp;

Under Ten Hag, Ajax became one of the top European teams and went toe-to-toe with top teams in the continental competitions. Ajax's 2018-19 Champions League run is still remembered vividly by football purists.

The team thrashed the likes of Juventus and Real Madrid and nearly qualified for the finals before stumbling in the final seconds of the semifinal second leg against Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;

Apart from UCL, Ten Hag won three Eredivisie titles and&nbsp;two KNVB Cups with the Ajax team which is now in a relegation battle, following his departure.&nbsp;

At Ajax, Ten Hag played possession-based football with quick, incisive passing in the final third. The likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong, Donny van de Beek, Andre Onana&nbsp;and Hakim Ziyech played their best football under him. However, since moving to different clubs, very few have hit the highs of their Ajax days.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made a stunning admission that his team will never play the style of football that he implemented during his previous 'successful' stint at Ajax.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made a stunning admission that his team will never play the style of football that he implemented during his previous 'successful' stint at Ajax. Ten Hag's statement comes after his side were humbled in the Manchester derby by cross-city rivals. The defeat raised questions over Ten Hag's playing philosophy which has been seemingly non-existent during his time at Old Trafford. "Never. We will never play that football. Because those were different players. This is also not why I came here," said Ten Hag. "That is not in the DNA of Manchester United at all. The football at Ajax is very typical, here we will play much more directly. We also have the players for that, especially at the forefront," he added. Also read | 'It's unacceptable...': United manager Erik Ten Hag unimpressed after performance against Leeds Ajax's impressive run Despite being at the club for more than a year and having spent hundreds of millions of dollars on player transfers, United are far from having a cogent playing style. The team is unable to depict a set pattern of play, something which Ten Hag's compatriots like Ange Postecoglou, Unai Emery and Roberto De Zerbi have displayed, despite taking charge of their respective teams much later. Under Ten Hag, Ajax became one of the top European teams and went toe-to-toe with top teams in the continental competitions. Ajax's 2018-19 Champions League run is still remembered vividly by football purists. The team thrashed the likes of Juventus and Real Madrid and nearly qualified for the finals before stumbling in the final seconds of the semifinal second leg against Tottenham Hotspur. Apart from UCL, Ten Hag won three Eredivisie titles and two KNVB Cups with the Ajax team which is now in a relegation battle, following his departure. At Ajax, Ten Hag played possession-based football with quick, incisive passing in the final third. The likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong, Donny van de Beek, Andre Onana and Hakim Ziyech played their best football under him. However, since moving to different clubs, very few have hit the highs of their Ajax days. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Will never play like that...', Erik ten Hag admits Manchester United will not hit highs of his Ajax team

Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig.

Elsewhere in Europe's elite club competition there was a victory for Barcelona in Xavi Hernandez's 100th game as coach and an agonising last-gasp defeat for Celtic against Lazio.

But Newcastle stole the show on a night to remember for their fans on Tyneside as Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schaer all scored to inflict on the French club their heaviest&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group-stage loss since the Qatari takeover of 2011.

Almiron gave Saudi-owned Newcastle a 17th-minute lead following an error by PSG captain Marquinhos, and a Burn header that crossed the line before Gianluigi Donnarumma could swat it away was given after a VAR check for a possible offside six minutes prior to the break.

With Kylian Mbappe unable to make an impact, Longstaff pounced on passive defending to make it 3-0 early in the second half.

Lucas Hernandez pulled one back but a classy strike by Schaer rounded off a fine night for Newcastle at the death.

"PSG are such a good team, we had to defend really well and our spirit was brilliant," Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told broadcaster TNT Sports.

Newcastle go top of Group F and PSG are second after rivals Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan played out a 0-0 draw in Germany.

<h2>Alvarez strike sinks Leipzig</h2>

Reigning&nbsp;champions&nbsp;City are well on course to qualify for the knockout stages after successfully negotiating their hardest test in Group G to beat Leipzig 3-1 away.

Phil Foden finished off a fine move to put City ahead midway through the first half, only for Lois Openda to equalise just after the interval.

Foden then hit the bar from a free-kick and it looked like Pep Guardiola's side might have to settle for a point until substitute Julian Alvarez found the top corner with a superb strike on 84 minutes.

Alvarez then turned provider for Jeremy Doku to make it 3-1 in stoppage time as City made it two wins out of two in the competition this season.

"We played a fantastic game in all departments. Everyone was perfect," Guardiola told TNT Sports.

Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys got off the mark in the same group with a 2-2 draw in Serbia, where Osman Bukari grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser for the home team.

Cherif Ndiaye had given Red Star the lead but Young Boys -- who face City next -- drew level through Filip Ugrinic and then went ahead courtesy of a Cedric Itten penalty.

<h2>Barcelona beat Porto</h2>

Barcelona celebrated a landmark night for Xavi with a 1-0 victory away to Porto in Portugal in what was on paper their toughest assignment in Group H.

Ferran Torres scored the only goal as Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever starter in a&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;match at the age of 16 years and 83 days.

"We had been talking about it, this match was worth half of the qualification," Torres told broadcaster Movistar.

Barcelona ended the game with 10 men after Gavi was sent off late on.

Earlier, Shakhtar Donetsk got a first win in the same group with a remarkable comeback from two goals down to beat Royal Antwerp 3-2 in Belgium.

Arbnor Muja and Michel-Ange Balikwisha had Antwerp 2-0 up at the break, but a brace by Danylo Sikan either side of a Yaroslav Rakitskyy goal turned the game on its head.

Antwerp still could have earned a draw but Toby Alderweireld missed a penalty deep in stoppage time.

Celtic suffered a second straight defeat in Group E after Pedro Rodriguez's 95th-minute strike gave Lazio a 2-1 victory in Glasgow.

Kyogo Furuhashi had put Celtic in front but Matias Vecino equalised, paving the way for the dramatic finale.

Atletico Madrid beat Feyenoord 3-2 in the same group, with Alvaro Morata scoring twice and Antoine Griezmann also on target.

The Dutch&nbsp;champions&nbsp;had led twice, first through a Mario Hermoso own goal and then through David Hancko, but Atletico hit back each time.

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Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first Champions League match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig.

Newcastle United claimed a stunning 4-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday in their first Champions League match at St James' Park in 20 years, while holders Manchester City scored two late goals to get the better of RB Leipzig. Elsewhere in Europe's elite club competition there was a victory for Barcelona in Xavi Hernandez's 100th game as coach and an agonising last-gasp defeat for Celtic against Lazio. But Newcastle stole the show on a night to remember for their fans on Tyneside as Miguel Almiron, Dan Burn, Sean Longstaff and Fabian Schaer all scored to inflict on the French club their heaviest Champions League group-stage loss since the Qatari takeover of 2011. Almiron gave Saudi-owned Newcastle a 17th-minute lead following an error by PSG captain Marquinhos, and a Burn header that crossed the line before Gianluigi Donnarumma could swat it away was given after a VAR check for a possible offside six minutes prior to the break. With Kylian Mbappe unable to make an impact, Longstaff pounced on passive defending to make it 3-0 early in the second half. Lucas Hernandez pulled one back but a classy strike by Schaer rounded off a fine night for Newcastle at the death. "PSG are such a good team, we had to defend really well and our spirit was brilliant," Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told broadcaster TNT Sports. Newcastle go top of Group F and PSG are second after rivals Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan played out a 0-0 draw in Germany. Alvarez strike sinks Leipzig Reigning champions City are well on course to qualify for the knockout stages after successfully negotiating their hardest test in Group G to beat Leipzig 3-1 away. Phil Foden finished off a fine move to put City ahead midway through the first half, only for Lois Openda to equalise just after the interval. Foden then hit the bar from a free-kick and it looked like Pep Guardiola's side might have to settle for a point until substitute Julian Alvarez found the top corner with a superb strike on 84 minutes. Alvarez then turned provider for Jeremy Doku to make it 3-1 in stoppage time as City made it two wins out of two in the competition this season. "We played a fantastic game in all departments. Everyone was perfect," Guardiola told TNT Sports. Red Star Belgrade and Young Boys got off the mark in the same group with a 2-2 draw in Serbia, where Osman Bukari grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser for the home team. Cherif Ndiaye had given Red Star the lead but Young Boys -- who face City next -- drew level through Filip Ugrinic and then went ahead courtesy of a Cedric Itten penalty. Barcelona beat Porto Barcelona celebrated a landmark night for Xavi with a 1-0 victory away to Porto in Portugal in what was on paper their toughest assignment in Group H. Ferran Torres scored the only goal as Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever starter in a Champions League match at the age of 16 years and 83 days. "We had been talking about it, this match was worth half of the qualification," Torres told broadcaster Movistar. Barcelona ended the game with 10 men after Gavi was sent off late on. Earlier, Shakhtar Donetsk got a first win in the same group with a remarkable comeback from two goals down to beat Royal Antwerp 3-2 in Belgium. Arbnor Muja and Michel-Ange Balikwisha had Antwerp 2-0 up at the break, but a brace by Danylo Sikan either side of a Yaroslav Rakitskyy goal turned the game on its head. Antwerp still could have earned a draw but Toby Alderweireld missed a penalty deep in stoppage time. Celtic suffered a second straight defeat in Group E after Pedro Rodriguez's 95th-minute strike gave Lazio a 2-1 victory in Glasgow. Kyogo Furuhashi had put Celtic in front but Matias Vecino equalised, paving the way for the dramatic finale. Atletico Madrid beat Feyenoord 3-2 in the same group, with Alvaro Morata scoring twice and Antoine Griezmann also on target. The Dutch champions had led twice, first through a Mario Hermoso own goal and then through David Hancko, but Atletico hit back each time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Newcastle hand PSG a Champions League lesson, Man City beat Leipzig

Manchester United crashed to a second successive&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;defeat on Tuesday, losing 3-2 at home to Galatasaray, while Lens stunned Arsenal and Jude Bellingham once again inspired Real Madrid.

Mauro Icardi made amends for a missed penalty by scoring the winner for Galatasaray as the Turkish club twice came from behind at Old Trafford to pile more misery onto a deeply troubled United side.

United have lost their first two games of a&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group for the first time, leaving Erik ten Hag's men in &nbsp;danger of an early exit.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ten-hag-urges-manchester-united-to-stick-together-amid-crisis-642332">Football: Ten Hag urges Manchester United to stick together amid crisis</a>

"The mental errors we make, you cannot allow them at this level. You get punished. This is difficult to control," Ten Hag told TNT Sports.

"We are all in this together. We were twice up and in control of the game. We expect more together."

Rasmus Hojlund was one of the rare bright spots for United, scoring two well-taken goals, but Galatasaray responded both times as Wilfried Zaha netted against his old side before Kerem Akturkoglu struck.

Icardi dragged a penalty wide after Casemiro was sent off for a desperate lunge following a dreadful ball out from goalkeeper Andre Onana, but the Argentine had the last laugh when he chipped home on 81 minutes.

United are bottom of Group A, six points adrift of Bayern Munich who came from behind to beat FC Copenhagen 2-1 in Denmark.

Lukas Lerager fired the Danes ahead early in the second half, but Jamal Musiala bagged a superb individual goal to haul Bayern level before teenage substitute Mathys Tel lashed in a fine strike late on.

<h2>Arsenal lose Saka</h2>

Arsenal slumped to a first defeat of the season as Lens hit back to win 2-1 in northern France.

Gabriel Jesus gave Mikel Arteta's side an ideal start when he opened the scoring in the 14th minute to silence a raucous Stade Bollaert.

Adrien Thomasson soon brought last season's Ligue 1 runners-up level and the visitors saw Bukayo Saka limp off before half-time.

Wahi, the 20-year-old striker who became Lens' club-record signing when he joined at the start of the campaign, then fired home in the 69th minute and his side held on for a famous victory.

"It was a big night for us. We weren't able to take the result we wanted but we were able to learn," said Arteta.

Lens climbed to the top of Group B on four points, one above Arsenal.

PSV Eindhoven snatched a 2-2 draw at home against Sevilla in the other game in the group courtesy of Jordan Teze's stoppage-time equaliser after a late flurry of goals in the Netherlands.

England star Bellingham continued his sensational start to his Madrid career with a goal and an assist as Carlo Ancelotti's side beat Napoli 3-2 in Group C.

"What's so amazing about Bellingham is that he's only 20. He has great quality, a strong personality and character," Ancelotti told Sky Sport.&nbsp;

"He's a young man of 20 who's showing everyone what extraordinary talent he has."&nbsp;

Leo Ostigard headed Napoli in front but Bellingham set up Vinicius Junior to level before the England midfielder's brilliant run and finish put the Spaniards on top.

Piotr Zielinski converted a penalty to level for Napoli at the start of the second half but an unfortunate own goal from home goalkeeper Alex Meret handed Madrid victory.

Federico Valverde's thunderous drive from distance crashed back off the bar and hit Meret before bouncing back into the goal.

Braga ruined Union Berlin's home debut in the competition as Andre Castro struck a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory.&nbsp;

Union were two goals ahead after Sheraldo Becker's brace but Sikou Niakate pulled one back before Bruma curled in a brilliant equaliser from 25 metres.

Castro broke Union hearts with a low strike from outside the area to give Braga their first points in their first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;appearance since 2012.

Marcus Thuram struck the only goal as Inter Milan won 1-0 at home to Benfica in Group D. Inter are level on four points with Real Sociedad, who beat Salzburg 2-0 earlier in the day in Austria.

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Manchester United crashed to a second successive Champions League defeat on Tuesday, losing 3-2 at home to Galatasaray, while Lens stunned Arsenal and Jude Bellingham once again inspired Real Madrid.

Manchester United crashed to a second successive Champions League defeat on Tuesday, losing 3-2 at home to Galatasaray, while Lens stunned Arsenal and Jude Bellingham once again inspired Real Madrid. Mauro Icardi made amends for a missed penalty by scoring the winner for Galatasaray as the Turkish club twice came from behind at Old Trafford to pile more misery onto a deeply troubled United side. United have lost their first two games of a Champions League group for the first time, leaving Erik ten Hag's men in danger of an early exit. Also Read: Football: Ten Hag urges Manchester United to stick together amid crisis "The mental errors we make, you cannot allow them at this level. You get punished. This is difficult to control," Ten Hag told TNT Sports. "We are all in this together. We were twice up and in control of the game. We expect more together." Rasmus Hojlund was one of the rare bright spots for United, scoring two well-taken goals, but Galatasaray responded both times as Wilfried Zaha netted against his old side before Kerem Akturkoglu struck. Icardi dragged a penalty wide after Casemiro was sent off for a desperate lunge following a dreadful ball out from goalkeeper Andre Onana, but the Argentine had the last laugh when he chipped home on 81 minutes. United are bottom of Group A, six points adrift of Bayern Munich who came from behind to beat FC Copenhagen 2-1 in Denmark. Lukas Lerager fired the Danes ahead early in the second half, but Jamal Musiala bagged a superb individual goal to haul Bayern level before teenage substitute Mathys Tel lashed in a fine strike late on. Arsenal lose Saka Arsenal slumped to a first defeat of the season as Lens hit back to win 2-1 in northern France. Gabriel Jesus gave Mikel Arteta's side an ideal start when he opened the scoring in the 14th minute to silence a raucous Stade Bollaert. Adrien Thomasson soon brought last season's Ligue 1 runners-up level and the visitors saw Bukayo Saka limp off before half-time. Wahi, the 20-year-old striker who became Lens' club-record signing when he joined at the start of the campaign, then fired home in the 69th minute and his side held on for a famous victory. "It was a big night for us. We weren't able to take the result we wanted but we were able to learn," said Arteta. Lens climbed to the top of Group B on four points, one above Arsenal. PSV Eindhoven snatched a 2-2 draw at home against Sevilla in the other game in the group courtesy of Jordan Teze's stoppage-time equaliser after a late flurry of goals in the Netherlands. England star Bellingham continued his sensational start to his Madrid career with a goal and an assist as Carlo Ancelotti's side beat Napoli 3-2 in Group C. "What's so amazing about Bellingham is that he's only 20. He has great quality, a strong personality and character," Ancelotti told Sky Sport. "He's a young man of 20 who's showing everyone what extraordinary talent he has." Leo Ostigard headed Napoli in front but Bellingham set up Vinicius Junior to level before the England midfielder's brilliant run and finish put the Spaniards on top. Piotr Zielinski converted a penalty to level for Napoli at the start of the second half but an unfortunate own goal from home goalkeeper Alex Meret handed Madrid victory. Federico Valverde's thunderous drive from distance crashed back off the bar and hit Meret before bouncing back into the goal. Braga ruined Union Berlin's home debut in the competition as Andre Castro struck a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory. Union were two goals ahead after Sheraldo Becker's brace but Sikou Niakate pulled one back before Bruma curled in a brilliant equaliser from 25 metres. Castro broke Union hearts with a low strike from outside the area to give Braga their first points in their first Champions League appearance since 2012. Marcus Thuram struck the only goal as Inter Milan won 1-0 at home to Benfica in Group D. Inter are level on four points with Real Sociedad, who beat Salzburg 2-0 earlier in the day in Austria. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Real Madrid edge Napoli, Arsenal lose Saka in loss against Lens

Harry Kane was among the scorers as Bayern Munich beat Manchester United 4-3 in their heavyweight Champions League clash on Wednesday (September 20), while Jude Bellingham snatched a dramatic late winner for Real Madrid and Arsenal began their campaign with a big victory.

Harry Kane was among the scorers as Bayern Munich beat Manchester United 4-3 in their heavyweight Champions League clash on Wednesday (September 20), while Jude Bellingham snatched a dramatic late winner for Real Madrid and Arsenal began their campaign with a big victory. The meeting between German champions Bayern and a struggling United side, a repeat of the 1999 final, was the biggest game of the opening round of matches in this season's competition and it did not disappoint. Leroy Sane gave Bayern the lead at the Allianz Arena with a shot that squirmed through the grasp of United goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Jamal Musiala set up Serge Gnabry to make it 2-0 just after the half-hour mark. Rasmus Hojlund pulled one back early in the second half with his first United goal, but shortly after Christian Eriksen was penalised for a handball in the box and Kane blasted in the resulting penalty. Sane hit the post for the hosts before a crazy finish saw Casemiro reduce the deficit again, substitute Mathys Tel score Bayern's fourth, and Casemiro nod in another at the death to make it 4-3. "A crazy finish," Kane told British broadcaster TNT Sports after netting his fifth goal in six games for his new club. "We lost a bit of concentration there in the last five minutes. Thankfully we were able to hold onto the lead. Overall it's a really good start to the campaign against a tough side," he said. Erik ten Hag's United team have now suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions and lost four of their last five matches. "After my mistake we lost control of the game. It's a difficult situation for us, for me," said Onana about Bayern's first goal. Thomas Tuchel's side are already in control of Group A, in which the other game saw Galatasaray come from two goals down to draw 2-2 with FC Copenhagen. Goals from Mohamed Elyounoussi and Diogo Goncalves had the visitors in control in Istanbul but they then had Elias Jelert sent off and Galatasaray struck twice in the last four minutes of regulation time through Sacha Boey and Tete to earn a point. Also read | UCL roundup: Lazio goalkeeper scores 95th min equaliser, Man City fashion comeback win Bellingham strikes again In Madrid, Bellingham popped up from close range to score a 94th-minute winner as record 14-time European champions Real beat tournament debutants Union Berlin 1-0 in Group C. The England international has started his Madrid career in stunning goalscoring form with six goals in six games for the club across all competitions. "He has great qualities, it seems he's got luck too, because the goal is a rebound, but he was there, he arrives from deep, and he's more switched on than others, he's got that quality and he's taking advantage of it," said Real coach Carlo Ancelotti. Madrid's next game is away to Napoli, who won 2-1 against Braga in Portugal with Sikou Niakate's late own goal giving the Italian team victory. Giovanni Di Lorenzo had put Napoli ahead but Bruma looked to have earned Braga a draw when he struck with six minutes left. Arsenal cruise Arsenal cruised to a 4-0 win over PSV Eindhoven in their first Champions League game since the 2016/17 season. Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus all scored first-half goals in the rain in London and Martin Odegaard wrapped up the win after the break. "It was a beautiful night after such a long time. It was great to see the atmosphere, the Champions League music. It was emotional before the game," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said. Their Group B rivals Sevilla and Lens drew 1-1 in Spain, with Angelo Fulgini's free-kick earning the French side a draw after Lucas Ocampos headed the hosts in front. Last season's beaten finalists Inter Milan needed an 87th-minute Lautaro Martinez equaliser as they came from behind to draw 1-1 at Real Sociedad in Group D. Brais Mendez had given the home team an early lead in San Sebastian. In the same group, Red Bull Salzburg missed one penalty but scored another in a 2-0 win away to Benfica in Lisbon. Karim Konate blazed the Austrian team's first spot-kick over the bar in the third minute but home defender Antonio Silva was sent off on 13 minutes for a handball on the line and Salzburg's second penalty was converted by Roko Simic. Oscar Gloukh scored their second goal just after the break. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UCL roundup: United lose after Onana howler, Bellingham strikes again for Madrid at death

Manchester City overcame an early scare to get their Champions League defence off to a solid start on Tuesday (September 19) but nine-man Celtic endured a rough night in Rotterdam.

Manchester City overcame an early scare to get their Champions League defence off to a solid start on Tuesday (September 19) but nine-man Celtic endured a rough night in Rotterdam. Barcelona cruised past Antwerp and Kylian Mbappe helped Paris-Saint Germain to an opening win on a breathless beginning to the group stage of Europe's top club competition. Newcastle returned to the high table of European football for the first time in two decades with a battling goalless draw against AC Milan at the San Siro and Lazio grabbed an equaliser deep in injury time to hold Atletico Madrid, courtesy of a stunning goal from goalkeeper Ivan Provedel. He became the second-ever goalkeeper in UCL history to score a non-penalty goal. In Manchester, Pep Guardiola's City were stunned when Red Star's Osman Bukari opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time. But Julian Alvarez continued his sparkling early season form by levelling just two minutes after the break. The Argentine then got some help from Red Star goalkeeper Omri Glazer as he flapped at Alvarez's free-kick to allow the ball to fly into the far corner. Rodri rounded off a 3-1 win with a composed finish 17 minutes from time. "If we scored two goals early in the beginning it would've been completely different," said Guardiola, who was frustrated at his side's finishing. "Having 22 (first-half) shots on goal means you are playing really good. It has to be the responsibility of the people in front to score the goals." City are next away to RB Leipzig, who share top place in Group E after a 3-1 win at Swiss champions Young Boys. Mohamed Simaken earned the distinction of scoring the first goal of the group stages with the 2023/24 competition only three minutes old. The French-born defender's header put Leipzig into a lightning lead in Berne but Elia levelled for the Swiss hosts before Xaver Schlager and Benjamin Sesko wrapped up the win for the Austrian visitors. In Catalonia, Joao Felix struck twice as Barcelona flexed their muscles with a crushing 5-0 win over Royal Antwerp to show their determination to be considered among Europe's elite once again. After consecutive humiliating group stage eliminations, Barcelona are desperate to go deep in this season's competition, last winning it eight years ago. Felix shone for the Spanish champions on a stroll on a warm night in the Catalan capital, helped on their way by an own goal, with Robert Lewandowski and Gavi also scoring. That lifted them top of Group H from Porto, 3-1 winners over Shakhtar Donetsk. Barca's victory followed a 5-0 thrashing of Real Betis on Saturday, leading coach Xavi Hernandez to say: "I think these last two games are the best level we have shown with me as coach -- it's the path to follow." Also read | Football: Most Assists in UEFA Champions League History 'Almost perfect' At Parc des Princes, PSG may have lost Neymar and Lionel Messi over the summer but they held on to Mbappe who set them up for a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund. The French champions went ahead four minutes after the break when Mbappe scored a spot-kick awarded for a Niklas Suele handball. Achraf Hakimi added a memorable second, and PSG could have won the Group F encounter by a far more handsome margin in the end. "It was an almost perfect evening," purred new coach Luis Enrique. PSG's next date is at Newcastle, whose manager Eddie Howe was proud of his side's dogged return to the competition against seven-time European kings AC Milan. Howe was the happier of the two managers after taking a point from the clash at the San Siro as his team were mostly on the back foot against last season's losing semi-finalists. "Definitely pride in result and the performance and the mentality shown," Howe told reporters. Over in Rotterdam a "bitterly disappointed" Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was left to rue the "inexperience" of two players sent off in their 2-0 loss to Feyenoord but said the Scottish champions had proved they could be competitive. Midway through the second half defender Gustaf Lagerbielke was shown a second yellow card after pulling back Brazilian striker Igor Paixao in the box. He was barely down the tunnel when substitute Odin Thiago Holm also saw red for a studs-up late challenge. "Unfortunately for us, we got the two players sent off and it's a difficult level 11 v 11, but 11 v nine is really difficult," said Rodgers who was heartened by the "spirit and mentality" of the nine men left on the pitch. On Wednesday, record 14-time winners Real Madrid host German debutants Union Berlin, and Bayern Munich with Harry Kane welcome Manchester United who are seeking solace in Europe after a troubling start to the Premier League season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UCL roundup: Lazio goalkeeper scores 95th min equaliser, Man City fashion comeback win

Mumbai City FC kickstarted their AFC Champions League campaign on a disappointing note as Iranian side Nassaji Mazandaran ran out winners by 2-0 on Monday, September 18. The contest played out at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune saw the home side dominate the early proceedings but were ultimately undone after the visitors showed their class on the counter-attack. The Islanders will now look to bounce back in from the defeat on Sunday, September 24 against NorthEast United in the Indian Super League (ISL) opener.

<h2>What happened in the contest?</h2>

Playing in their second AFC Champions League season, Mumbai started the first half on a high as they dominated the possession from the start. Mumbai came close in the 19th minute to break the deadlock but Lallianzuala Chhangte was denied by alert defending from the Iranian outfit. Greg Stewart then came close to open the scoring but his shot narrowly missed the target.

The biggest moment of the first half came in the 34th minute, completely against the run of play as Mohammad Hosseini pounced on a mistake by skipper Rahul Bheke to score the first goal of the AFC Champions League 2023-24 season. The visitors would then hold fine for the next ten minutes as they went into the break with a 1-0 lead while Mumbai missed several chances from open play.

Like the first half, Mumbai started the second half on a high but did not take advantage of the half chances which proved costly. The lead was doubled in the 62nd minute as Mohammad Reza Azadi scored from another error as Nassaji were in the driving seat. With a 2-0 lead in the bank, the visitors opted for a defensive approach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-australia-odis-rohit-kohli-to-feature-in-series-finale-r-ashwin-returns-637248">BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns</a>

Mumbai would come close in the last 15 minutes as they tried pressing high, Chhangte came close in the 64th minute, immediately after the Nassaji goal, but did not find his finishing touch. In the 77th minute, Vikram Pratap and Argentine forward Jorge Pereyra Díaz failed to find the target from five yards, to sum up the day for the ISL champions.

<h2>Mumbai to travel to Uzbekistan</h2>

Mumbai City FC will next take on Uzbekistan outfit Navbhor FC in their next AFC Champions League contest while they will also be in action during the ISL season where they will take on NorthEast United in the opening match. On the flip side, Nassaji Mazandaran will take on Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. The second matchweek will take place on Tuesday, October 3.

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Mumbai City FC kickstarted their AFC Champions League campaign on a disappointing note as Iranian side Nassaji Mazandaran ran out winners by 2-0 on Monday, September 18.

Mumbai City FC kickstarted their AFC Champions League campaign on a disappointing note as Iranian side Nassaji Mazandaran ran out winners by 2-0 on Monday, September 18. The contest played out at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune saw the home side dominate the early proceedings but were ultimately undone after the visitors showed their class on the counter-attack. The Islanders will now look to bounce back in from the defeat on Sunday, September 24 against NorthEast United in the Indian Super League (ISL) opener. What happened in the contest? Playing in their second AFC Champions League season, Mumbai started the first half on a high as they dominated the possession from the start. Mumbai came close in the 19th minute to break the deadlock but Lallianzuala Chhangte was denied by alert defending from the Iranian outfit. Greg Stewart then came close to open the scoring but his shot narrowly missed the target. The biggest moment of the first half came in the 34th minute, completely against the run of play as Mohammad Hosseini pounced on a mistake by skipper Rahul Bheke to score the first goal of the AFC Champions League 2023-24 season. The visitors would then hold fine for the next ten minutes as they went into the break with a 1-0 lead while Mumbai missed several chances from open play. Like the first half, Mumbai started the second half on a high but did not take advantage of the half chances which proved costly. The lead was doubled in the 62nd minute as Mohammad Reza Azadi scored from another error as Nassaji were in the driving seat. With a 2-0 lead in the bank, the visitors opted for a defensive approach. ALSO READ | BCCI announces India squad for Australia ODIs: Rohit, Kohli to feature in series finale, R Ashwin returns Mumbai would come close in the last 15 minutes as they tried pressing high, Chhangte came close in the 64th minute, immediately after the Nassaji goal, but did not find his finishing touch. In the 77th minute, Vikram Pratap and Argentine forward Jorge Pereyra Díaz failed to find the target from five yards, to sum up the day for the ISL champions. Mumbai to travel to Uzbekistan Mumbai City FC will next take on Uzbekistan outfit Navbhor FC in their next AFC Champions League contest while they will also be in action during the ISL season where they will take on NorthEast United in the opening match. On the flip side, Nassaji Mazandaran will take on Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. The second matchweek will take place on Tuesday, October 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AFC Champions League: Nassaji Mazandaran down Mumbai City in curtain-raiser despite resolute efforts by hosts

Mumbai City FC are one sleep away before they kick off a landmark 2023-24 season. A second consecutive appearance in the prestigious AFC Champions League is upon us as the Islanders kick off their continental campaign against Iran’s FC Nassaji Mazandaran tomorrow at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi, Pune with action kicking off at 7:30 PM IST.

On the cusp of embarking on yet another historic AFC Champions League campaign, Mumbai City FC Head Coach Des Buckingham and goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa attended a pre-match press conference ahead of their first Group D fixture against the Iranian Hazfi Cup Champions.

Head Coach Des Buckingham, spoke about the Islanders’ previous AFC Champions League campaign highlighting the club’s sentiment around it. He said, “We were slightly disappointed not to qualify for the next round last season and rather than maybe what the perception was going into the ACL last time. So, to change that narrative afterward was very positive and I think it really showcased what Indian football can do on this stage.”

Buckingham went on to talk about how this season’s AFC Champions League will be a unique experience, he said, “The tournament this year is going to be very different, with a very different set of circumstances. We were obviously based in Riyadh because of COVID-19 last season. This year we go back to the traditional format of home and away.

“With that comes these challenges and differences, but the one thing I'm looking forward to is just trying to replicate the performances that we had in the Champions League last year which put us in a strong position to get those results. We have experience of the Champions League from last year as well as the football that we played in the league last year as well.

“So, I think if we can combine those together and if we prepare well, we'll put ourselves in the strongest position we can, but it's the top level of Asian club competition so we must be on top of our game to make sure we get everything out of every game.”

The Islanders’ number 1, Phurba Lachenpa, expressed his thoughts ahead of the game with elation. Phurba said, “We are very excited as a unit, and as a player, you always want to play against the best and play in the best of the tournaments in Asia. So, it's an exciting and good opportunity for us to showcase what we can do as a team.”

Lachenpa went on to talk about the importance of having experience of playing in the AFC Champions League as he highlighted the challenges the team might face this time around, he said, “It's always challenging for us to do it because we are a top club, and we are not representing only the city of Mumbai, we are representing India as a whole.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-capable-of-being-in-team-if-says-former-pakistan-batter-younis-khan-on-skipper-babar-azam-636790">'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam</a>

“There's always pressure to do well but it's always up to us, on our mentality, how we deal with it, and how we prepare against top teams in this competition, so yeah, it depends on our mentality, how we take it and how we take all these challenges and competition.”

Buckingham concluded the press conference by talking about the importance of Mumbai City FC’s presence in the AFC Champions League for Indian football, he said, “I think it's a wonderful thing. We’re not just representing our club, we're representing our region but we're also going to represent India and Indian football on the highest stage of club football that we can.

“You see the excitement around the community, you see the excitement around the country because it's a new experience and it's something they haven't had before. In fact, this will be the first time we've been able to bring Champions League football to fans in India. So, for the first time, people will come and see this level of competition and the quality of players across all three teams we will face.”

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Mumbai City FC are one sleep away before they kick off a landmark 2023-24 season. A second consecutive appearance in the prestigious AFC Champions League is upon us as the Islanders kick off their continental campaign against Iran’s FC Nassaji Mazandaran tomorrow at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi, Pune with action kicking off at 7:30 PM IST.

Mumbai City FC are one sleep away before they kick off a landmark 2023-24 season. A second consecutive appearance in the prestigious AFC Champions League is upon us as the Islanders kick off their continental campaign against Iran’s FC Nassaji Mazandaran tomorrow at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi, Pune with action kicking off at 7:30 PM IST. On the cusp of embarking on yet another historic AFC Champions League campaign, Mumbai City FC Head Coach Des Buckingham and goalkeeper Phurba Lachenpa attended a pre-match press conference ahead of their first Group D fixture against the Iranian Hazfi Cup Champions. Head Coach Des Buckingham, spoke about the Islanders’ previous AFC Champions League campaign highlighting the club’s sentiment around it. He said, “We were slightly disappointed not to qualify for the next round last season and rather than maybe what the perception was going into the ACL last time. So, to change that narrative afterward was very positive and I think it really showcased what Indian football can do on this stage.” Buckingham went on to talk about how this season’s AFC Champions League will be a unique experience, he said, “The tournament this year is going to be very different, with a very different set of circumstances. We were obviously based in Riyadh because of COVID-19 last season. This year we go back to the traditional format of home and away. “With that comes these challenges and differences, but the one thing I'm looking forward to is just trying to replicate the performances that we had in the Champions League last year which put us in a strong position to get those results. We have experience of the Champions League from last year as well as the football that we played in the league last year as well. “So, I think if we can combine those together and if we prepare well, we'll put ourselves in the strongest position we can, but it's the top level of Asian club competition so we must be on top of our game to make sure we get everything out of every game.” The Islanders’ number 1, Phurba Lachenpa, expressed his thoughts ahead of the game with elation. Phurba said, “We are very excited as a unit, and as a player, you always want to play against the best and play in the best of the tournaments in Asia. So, it's an exciting and good opportunity for us to showcase what we can do as a team.” Lachenpa went on to talk about the importance of having experience of playing in the AFC Champions League as he highlighted the challenges the team might face this time around, he said, “It's always challenging for us to do it because we are a top club, and we are not representing only the city of Mumbai, we are representing India as a whole. ALSO READ | 'Not capable of being in team if...,' says former Pakistan batter Younis Khan on skipper Babar Azam “There's always pressure to do well but it's always up to us, on our mentality, how we deal with it, and how we prepare against top teams in this competition, so yeah, it depends on our mentality, how we take it and how we take all these challenges and competition.” Buckingham concluded the press conference by talking about the importance of Mumbai City FC’s presence in the AFC Champions League for Indian football, he said, “I think it's a wonderful thing. We’re not just representing our club, we're representing our region but we're also going to represent India and Indian football on the highest stage of club football that we can. “You see the excitement around the community, you see the excitement around the country because it's a new experience and it's something they haven't had before. In fact, this will be the first time we've been able to bring Champions League football to fans in India. So, for the first time, people will come and see this level of competition and the quality of players across all three teams we will face.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AFC Champions League: Mumbai City FC manager Des Buckingham ready for latest challenge against FC Nassaji

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism.&nbsp;

Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier.

"The problem of violence and hooliganism is not just Greek, it is European," he told a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.&nbsp;

"I call on everyone at a European level to eliminate this cancer", he added.&nbsp;

AEK Athens fan Michalis Katsouris, 29, died after being stabbed during violent clashes on the eve of Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb's qualifier at AEK near the Greek club's stadium in Nea Filadelfia, a western suburb of Athens.

Last Tuesday's match was then postponed by UEFA until 19 August.

"We will do everything in our power to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," said Ceferin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-needs-to-be-more-aggressive-kapil-dev-advises-indian-captain-cites-bazballs-example-626012">Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example</a>

On Sunday, the Greek courts charged 105 people with involvement in the incidents and remanded them in custody. The accused include 102 Croatians, suspected of being linked to the Bad Blue Boys, a Dinamo Zagreb ultra group.

"The guilty parties will be found and punished for this murder," said the Greek prime minister, who also called for a "European mechanism to tackle violence in stadiums and punish it effectively."

Mitsotakis also emphasised that he had agreed with the four chairmen of the main Greek clubs that "the police should operate in the stadiums and be able to control entry".&nbsp;

"But violence is not just in the stadiums, it is also on the streets, and we need to fight it collectively", he added.&nbsp;

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UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism. Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism. Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier. "The problem of violence and hooliganism is not just Greek, it is European," he told a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. "I call on everyone at a European level to eliminate this cancer", he added. AEK Athens fan Michalis Katsouris, 29, died after being stabbed during violent clashes on the eve of Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb's qualifier at AEK near the Greek club's stadium in Nea Filadelfia, a western suburb of Athens. Last Tuesday's match was then postponed by UEFA until 19 August. "We will do everything in our power to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," said Ceferin. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example On Sunday, the Greek courts charged 105 people with involvement in the incidents and remanded them in custody. The accused include 102 Croatians, suspected of being linked to the Bad Blue Boys, a Dinamo Zagreb ultra group. "The guilty parties will be found and punished for this murder," said the Greek prime minister, who also called for a "European mechanism to tackle violence in stadiums and punish it effectively." Mitsotakis also emphasised that he had agreed with the four chairmen of the main Greek clubs that "the police should operate in the stadiums and be able to control entry". "But violence is not just in the stadiums, it is also on the streets, and we need to fight it collectively", he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin says football must 'eliminate cancer' of hooliganism

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has penned a new five-year deal with the club as he extends his stay at the Old Trafford. The deal was signed on Tuesday, July 18 after the England star was linked with a host of clubs including French giants Paris Saint-Germain. Rashford will now stay at the club until 2028 having come through the ranks of the Red Devils famous academy.

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Where you belong 🔴 
 
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<h2>Rashford pens new deal</h2>

"I joined Manchester United as a seven-year-old boy with a dream. That same passion, pride, and determination to succeed still drives me every time I have the honour of wearing the shirt," said Rashford after signing his new five-year deal.

The player has been in great form for the club having established himself as a regular first in 2016 when he had his breakthrough season under then-manager Louis van Gaal. He would then become a fan favourite under the regimes of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He had a fruitful campaign under Erik ten Hag in his first season in charge and scored 30 goals for the side that saw the Red Devils return to the Champions League, having finished third in the Premier League.

"I've already had some amazing experiences at this incredible club, but there is still a lot more to achieve and I remain relentlessly determined to win more trophies in the years ahead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-wrestlers-protest-saga-surrounding-brij-bhushan-singh-and-what-next-for-the-wfi-chief-617093">EXPLAINED | Wrestlers protest, saga surrounding Brij Bhushan Singh and what next for the WFI chief</a>

<h2>Promising career at United</h2>

In 359 matches for the club, the 25-year-old has scored 123 goals while representing the side in 239 Premier League matches. He has an impressive record in the league and has scored 76 times for the club and could become the latest player in the coming season to be part of the 100-goal Premier League star for the Red Devils.

His time at the club has also seen him earn 53 national caps and has scored 16 goals for the side. He Rashford was part of the England side that reached the final of the Euro 2020 while also playing an important role in England’s run to the 2018 World Cup semifinal.

In his time at the club, Rashford has won the FA Cup, League Cup and was runner-up in the Europa League in 2021. He will have an important role to play in the side as United look to end their Premier League trophy drought since 2013 while he will also play an important in the Champions League as the Red Devils look to stamp their authority on the competition.

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Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has penned a new five-year deal with the club as he extends his stay at the Old Trafford. The deal was signed on Tuesday, July 18 after the England star was linked with a host of clubs including French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has penned a new five-year deal with the club as he extends his stay at the Old Trafford. The deal was signed on Tuesday, July 18 after the England star was linked with a host of clubs including French giants Paris Saint-Germain. Rashford will now stay at the club until 2028 having come through the ranks of the Red Devils famous academy. Where you belong 🔴 ✍️ @MarcusRashford #MUFC pic.twitter.com/MWcyC8OXNi — Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 18, 2023 × Rashford pens new deal "I joined Manchester United as a seven-year-old boy with a dream. That same passion, pride, and determination to succeed still drives me every time I have the honour of wearing the shirt," said Rashford after signing his new five-year deal. The player has been in great form for the club having established himself as a regular first in 2016 when he had his breakthrough season under then-manager Louis van Gaal. He would then become a fan favourite under the regimes of Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He had a fruitful campaign under Erik ten Hag in his first season in charge and scored 30 goals for the side that saw the Red Devils return to the Champions League, having finished third in the Premier League. "I've already had some amazing experiences at this incredible club, but there is still a lot more to achieve and I remain relentlessly determined to win more trophies in the years ahead. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED | Wrestlers protest, saga surrounding Brij Bhushan Singh and what next for the WFI chief Promising career at United In 359 matches for the club, the 25-year-old has scored 123 goals while representing the side in 239 Premier League matches. He has an impressive record in the league and has scored 76 times for the club and could become the latest player in the coming season to be part of the 100-goal Premier League star for the Red Devils. His time at the club has also seen him earn 53 national caps and has scored 16 goals for the side. He Rashford was part of the England side that reached the final of the Euro 2020 while also playing an important role in England’s run to the 2018 World Cup semifinal. In his time at the club, Rashford has won the FA Cup, League Cup and was runner-up in the Europa League in 2021. He will have an important role to play in the side as United look to end their Premier League trophy drought since 2013 while he will also play an important in the Champions League as the Red Devils look to stamp their authority on the competition. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Marcus Rashford pens five-year extension at Manchester United amid PSG interest

UEFA on Wednesday opened disciplinary proceedings after Israeli side Maccabi Haifa's Champions League qualifier against Hamrun Spartans in Malta was disrupted following chants of "Palestine, Palestine" by local fans.

On Tuesday night, with the visitors two goals up, tensions rose as Maccabi fans launched flares onto the pitch in the Centenary Stadium in Ta' Qali in Malta in response to the Maltese supporters' chants.

The game had to be stopped for 30 minutes.

UEFA, the governing body of European football charged both clubs over "throwing of objects" and "crowd disturbance" by their fans. Maccabi faced additional charges over "lighting of fireworks" and "acts of damage".&nbsp;

Five Israeli supporters were arrested, according to The Times of Israel.

Malta Today reported that two pleaded guilty on Wednesday in a local magistrates court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-1st-test-mohammed-siraj-takes-stunning-catch-to-dismiss-jermaine-blackwood-on-day-1-watch-614871">Ind vs WI, 1st Test: Mohammed Siraj takes STUNNING catch to dismiss Jermaine Blackwood on day 1 - WATCH</a>

It said police had told the court the two men had been arrested after throwing flares and that when they were searched, three more flares were found.

The two men were sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for three years and each fined 300 euros ($334).&nbsp;

Earlier, police said that fans who were frisked&nbsp;at the entry to the stadium were found to be smuggling flares in their underwear.

Maccabi won the match 4-0. The second leg is scheduled for July 18 in Israel.

Israeli forces this month launched the biggest raid in the West Bank in&nbsp;years. Twelve Palestinians and an Israeli soldier were killed in the two-day military operation.

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UEFA on Wednesday opened disciplinary proceedings after Israeli side Maccabi Haifa's Champions League qualifier against Hamrun Spartans in Malta was disrupted following chants of "Palestine, Palestine" by local fans.

UEFA on Wednesday opened disciplinary proceedings after Israeli side Maccabi Haifa's Champions League qualifier against Hamrun Spartans in Malta was disrupted following chants of "Palestine, Palestine" by local fans. On Tuesday night, with the visitors two goals up, tensions rose as Maccabi fans launched flares onto the pitch in the Centenary Stadium in Ta' Qali in Malta in response to the Maltese supporters' chants. The game had to be stopped for 30 minutes. UEFA, the governing body of European football charged both clubs over "throwing of objects" and "crowd disturbance" by their fans. Maccabi faced additional charges over "lighting of fireworks" and "acts of damage". Five Israeli supporters were arrested, according to The Times of Israel. Malta Today reported that two pleaded guilty on Wednesday in a local magistrates court. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI, 1st Test: Mohammed Siraj takes STUNNING catch to dismiss Jermaine Blackwood on day 1 - WATCH It said police had told the court the two men had been arrested after throwing flares and that when they were searched, three more flares were found. The two men were sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for three years and each fined 300 euros ($334). Earlier, police said that fans who were frisked at the entry to the stadium were found to be smuggling flares in their underwear. Maccabi won the match 4-0. The second leg is scheduled for July 18 in Israel. Israeli forces this month launched the biggest raid in the West Bank in years. Twelve Palestinians and an Israeli soldier were killed in the two-day military operation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UEFA probes Maccabi's Champions League match in Malta after 'Palestine' chant

Spain midfielder Rodri is going through the best period of his career as he prepares for a second final in the space of a week, looking to add national team success to taking the treble with Manchester City. The commanding midfielder, who turns 27 next week, was the hero for City last Saturday as they won a first-ever Champions League title with a 1-0 win over Inter Milan in Istanbul.

On Sunday, he is expected to be key again, this time for Spain as they take on Croatia to decide the Nations League champions in Rotterdam.

Asked at a Saturday press conference whether these were the best times of his career, Rodri replied: "I think so, in terms of footballing maturity, winning trophies and having wonderful experiences, I would say yes, it is.”

"I want to extend that to the national team now. We beat Italy two days ago in a very tough game, and now we have another final to play. And we must understand the importance of taking these chances and winning a trophy for the first time in a long while. It would be the perfect way to end the season.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bradley-currie-takes-a-stunning-one-handed-catch-in-vitality-blast-stst-605576">Watch: Bradley Currie’s spectacular catch takes internet by storm</a>

Rodri has played over 60 games this season, more than 5,900 minutes, helping Manchester City to historic heights and competing for Spain at last year’s World Cup.

"I’ve tried to just take things calmly and naturally. When there are happy moments, you need to know how to accept the praise. But I'm more focused on the team overall, what matters is winning trophies as a team, that's what I've always wanted."

<h2>DEMANDING SEASON</h2>

"We have a big game tomorrow after a very long season for me which has been very demanding. I didn't know how I would be heading into the final stages of the season with the World Cup in the middle and making a big effort for my club.

"I'm now in a situation where I'm in better shape than I thought. So I have to make the most of this opportunity to round off a fantastic season.”

Rodri has won 42 caps for Spain since his debut in 2018 and played in the losing team in the 2021 Nations League final against France.

"I think it would be brilliant to win a trophy for Spain for the first time in a long while and take Spain to the top. It would be very important not just in terms of winning, but also in terms of forging a winning future. It's a unique opportunity tomorrow and it would stand us in good stead for future tournaments and have a winning mentality."

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Spain midfielder Rodri is going through the best period of his career as he prepares for a second final in the space of a week, looking to add national team success to taking the treble with Manchester City.

Spain midfielder Rodri is going through the best period of his career as he prepares for a second final in the space of a week, looking to add national team success to taking the treble with Manchester City. The commanding midfielder, who turns 27 next week, was the hero for City last Saturday as they won a first-ever Champions League title with a 1-0 win over Inter Milan in Istanbul. On Sunday, he is expected to be key again, this time for Spain as they take on Croatia to decide the Nations League champions in Rotterdam. Asked at a Saturday press conference whether these were the best times of his career, Rodri replied: "I think so, in terms of footballing maturity, winning trophies and having wonderful experiences, I would say yes, it is.” "I want to extend that to the national team now. We beat Italy two days ago in a very tough game, and now we have another final to play. And we must understand the importance of taking these chances and winning a trophy for the first time in a long while. It would be the perfect way to end the season.” ALSO READ: Watch: Bradley Currie’s spectacular catch takes internet by storm Rodri has played over 60 games this season, more than 5,900 minutes, helping Manchester City to historic heights and competing for Spain at last year’s World Cup. "I’ve tried to just take things calmly and naturally. When there are happy moments, you need to know how to accept the praise. But I'm more focused on the team overall, what matters is winning trophies as a team, that's what I've always wanted." DEMANDING SEASON "We have a big game tomorrow after a very long season for me which has been very demanding. I didn't know how I would be heading into the final stages of the season with the World Cup in the middle and making a big effort for my club. "I'm now in a situation where I'm in better shape than I thought. So I have to make the most of this opportunity to round off a fantastic season.” Rodri has won 42 caps for Spain since his debut in 2018 and played in the losing team in the 2021 Nations League final against France. "I think it would be brilliant to win a trophy for Spain for the first time in a long while and take Spain to the top. It would be very important not just in terms of winning, but also in terms of forging a winning future. It's a unique opportunity tomorrow and it would stand us in good stead for future tournaments and have a winning mentality." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nations League Final: Spain's Rodri aims to pocket another elite title after Champions League win last week

Pep Guardiola and Manchester City will be chasing history on Saturday, June 10 evening as they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League. While talks have been about Manchester City chasing a treble, Inter Milan too are chasing a treble going into the summit clash in Istanbul on Saturday. City who could become just the second team in English football history to win the treble of Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup will look to stamp their authority on the final. Inter on the flip side will look to rely on their offense and defense which saw them get the better of city rivals AC Milan on their way to the final.

Champions League Final Preview: Man City chase place in history books as Inter try to play party-spoilers

Lionel Messi is leaving Paris Saint-Germain after their final match of the season on Saturday, the Ligue 1 champions said on social media.

"After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi's adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season," the club said in a widely expected announcement.

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The club said the 35-year-old would play some role in the Ligue 1 match against Clermont at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

The Argentinian was signed two seasons ago from Barcelona to help PSG win an elusive Champions League, but he failed in that aim. The French club were beaten in the Champions League last 16 by Real Madrid last season and suffered the same fate this year at Bayern Munich's hands.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-stage-a-perfect-comeback-to-stun-wolfsburg-3-2-as-womens-team-clinch-champions-league-title-600207">Barcelona stage a perfect comeback to stun Wolfsburg 3-2 as women's team clinch Champions League title</a>

Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or seven times, has earned an estimated annual salary of 30 million euros ($32.1 million) after tax at Qatar-backed PSG.

He led Argentina to victory against France in the World Cup final in Qatar in December.

But having poured his efforts into that long-awaited triumph for his country, his was unable to lead PSG past Bayern in the Champions League. Messi was even jeered by some supporters at the Parc des Princes despite scoring 32 goals in 74 games for PSG before Saturday's final match.

His relationship with the club soured further earlier this season when he skipped training for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia to fulfil his commitments as a tourism ambassador for the Gulf state.

A one-week suspension followed, and there was no prospect of Messi signing a new deal in Paris after that.\

<h2>Messi becomes a free agent</h2>

Barcelona, the club where he has played most of his career, would love him to return but the possibility has appeared to be fading in recent weeks.

Instead, Saudi Arabia might be his next destination.

A source with knowledge of the Saudi negotiations told AFP last month that it was a "done deal" for him to play in the Saudi Arabian league, although Messi's father Jorge denied then that his son had decided his next destination.

Inter Miami have also reportedly made an offer to take him to Major League Soccer.

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Lionel Messi is leaving Paris Saint-Germain after their final match of the season on Saturday, the Ligue 1 champions said on social media. "After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi's adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season," the club said in a widely expected announcement.

Lionel Messi is leaving Paris Saint-Germain after their final match of the season on Saturday, the Ligue 1 champions said on social media. "After two seasons in the capital, Leo Messi's adventure with Paris Saint-Germain will come to a conclusion at the end of the 2022-23 season," the club said in a widely expected announcement. After two seasons with PSG, the adventure between Leo Messi and Paris Saint-Germain will come to an end at the end of the 2022-23 campaign. The Club wishes Leo, with undeniable emotion, many more accomplishments for the rest of his career. #MerciMessi 🔴🔵… — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) June 3, 2023 × The club said the 35-year-old would play some role in the Ligue 1 match against Clermont at the Parc des Princes on Saturday. The Argentinian was signed two seasons ago from Barcelona to help PSG win an elusive Champions League, but he failed in that aim. The French club were beaten in the Champions League last 16 by Real Madrid last season and suffered the same fate this year at Bayern Munich's hands. ALSO READ: Barcelona stage a perfect comeback to stun Wolfsburg 3-2 as women's team clinch Champions League title Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or seven times, has earned an estimated annual salary of 30 million euros ($32.1 million) after tax at Qatar-backed PSG. He led Argentina to victory against France in the World Cup final in Qatar in December. But having poured his efforts into that long-awaited triumph for his country, his was unable to lead PSG past Bayern in the Champions League. Messi was even jeered by some supporters at the Parc des Princes despite scoring 32 goals in 74 games for PSG before Saturday's final match. His relationship with the club soured further earlier this season when he skipped training for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia to fulfil his commitments as a tourism ambassador for the Gulf state. A one-week suspension followed, and there was no prospect of Messi signing a new deal in Paris after that.\ Messi becomes a free agent Barcelona, the club where he has played most of his career, would love him to return but the possibility has appeared to be fading in recent weeks. Instead, Saudi Arabia might be his next destination. A source with knowledge of the Saudi negotiations told AFP last month that it was a "done deal" for him to play in the Saudi Arabian league, although Messi's father Jorge denied then that his son had decided his next destination. Inter Miami have also reportedly made an offer to take him to Major League Soccer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PSG confirm Lionel Messi exit after two seasons as Argentine star yet to decide on future

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club.

<h2>Juventus avoid point deduction</h2>

Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros.&nbsp;

Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions.

The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football.

Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A.

Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction.

If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League.

Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial.&nbsp;

<h2>Losses artificially reduced</h2>

The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced.&nbsp;

In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted.

Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities.

In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board.&nbsp;

It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22.

In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months.

Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March.&nbsp;

Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May.&nbsp;

On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome.&nbsp;

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Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal.

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club. Juventus avoid point deduction Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros. Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions. The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football. Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A. Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction. If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League. Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial. Losses artificially reduced The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced. In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted. Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities. In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board. It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22. In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months. Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March. Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May. On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Juventus fined, avoid points deduction in false accounting trial

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted they were beaten by the better side as they suffered a painful 4-0 demolition at Manchester City on Wednesday that completed a 5-1 aggregate defeat in their Champions League semi-final.

City, who were beaten by Real at the same stage last season, avenged that heartbreaking defeat with a brilliant performance in front of their jubilant fans, with only Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois preventing them inflicting even more damage.

"They played better than us and deserved to win," Ancelotti told reporters. "They put a lot of pressure at the beginning, it worked out well for them because they made it very difficult for us to get the ball in play and they went two goals ahead.

"From then on, it was difficult to get back into the game. We tried in the second half... but it didn't work out."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-crush-real-madrid-to-reach-champions-league-final-593453">Manchester City crush Real Madrid to reach Champions League final</a>

Ancelotti admitted it was a painful night but said it was too soon to analyse what had gone wrong.

"Evaluating today, at this moment, makes no sense," he said. "It is a defeat that hurts, it hurts a lot. But it can happen. We reached the semi-finals of the Champions League against a strong opponent, they played better and left us without a final. We have to learn and for the next season, to be better."

A year after winning a LaLiga and Champions League double, and becoming the first manager to capture titles in each of Europe’s top five leagues, Ancelotti was facing up to finishing the campaign with just a Spanish Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup to show for their efforts.

He did, however, set another record on Wednesday, becoming the coach with the most European Cup games (191), surpassing the mark set by former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson.

But with their rivals Barcelona crowned LaLiga champions last weekend with four-games to spare, Ancelotti was left searching for a silver lining.

"I think it was a good season. We have to show up in the few games we have ahead of us," Ancelotti said. "I think that reaching a Champions League semi-final is a success because only four teams make it to the last four."

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted they were beaten by the better side as they suffered a painful 4-0 demolition at Manchester City on Wednesday that completed a 5-1 aggregate defeat in their Champions League semi-final.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted they were beaten by the better side as they suffered a painful 4-0 demolition at Manchester City on Wednesday that completed a 5-1 aggregate defeat in their Champions League semi-final. City, who were beaten by Real at the same stage last season, avenged that heartbreaking defeat with a brilliant performance in front of their jubilant fans, with only Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois preventing them inflicting even more damage. "They played better than us and deserved to win," Ancelotti told reporters. "They put a lot of pressure at the beginning, it worked out well for them because they made it very difficult for us to get the ball in play and they went two goals ahead. "From then on, it was difficult to get back into the game. We tried in the second half... but it didn't work out." ALSO READ: Manchester City crush Real Madrid to reach Champions League final Ancelotti admitted it was a painful night but said it was too soon to analyse what had gone wrong. "Evaluating today, at this moment, makes no sense," he said. "It is a defeat that hurts, it hurts a lot. But it can happen. We reached the semi-finals of the Champions League against a strong opponent, they played better and left us without a final. We have to learn and for the next season, to be better." A year after winning a LaLiga and Champions League double, and becoming the first manager to capture titles in each of Europe’s top five leagues, Ancelotti was facing up to finishing the campaign with just a Spanish Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup to show for their efforts. He did, however, set another record on Wednesday, becoming the coach with the most European Cup games (191), surpassing the mark set by former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson. But with their rivals Barcelona crowned LaLiga champions last weekend with four-games to spare, Ancelotti was left searching for a silver lining. "I think it was a good season. We have to show up in the few games we have ahead of us," Ancelotti said. "I think that reaching a Champions League semi-final is a success because only four teams make it to the last four."

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti admits losing to a better side as Manchester City enter UCL final

Manchester City produced a stunning performance to reach the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final as Bernardo Silva's double put Real Madrid to the sword in 4-0 thrashing, securing a 5-1 aggregate win for the English&nbsp;champions&nbsp;on Wednesday.

Eder Militao's own goal and Julian Alvarez's strike in stoppage time rounded off a memorable night for Pep Guardiola's men as they moved to within three wins of matching Manchester United's treble in 1998/99.

A fifth Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;title in six seasons appears a formality with City needing just three points from their final three games, while United await in the FA Cup final on June 3.

But it is a first ever&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;that City crave the most and they will be strong favourites to finally conquer Europe against Inter Milan in Istanbul on June 10.

Seven years into Guardiola's reign as City boss, the home fans were sent into seventh heaven by the quality of a display that rivalled the former Barcelona boss'&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final wins in charge of the Catalan giants in 2009 and 2011.

Madrid dashed City's dreams at this stage last season with a remarkable comeback from two goals down in the dying seconds of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

But Carlo Ancelotti's men this time had no answer to City's excellence.

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The final is set ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/LBhHRu7j61">pic.twitter.com/LBhHRu7j61</a>
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Star of the show 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/sceP5PEcB6">pic.twitter.com/sceP5PEcB6</a>
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Star of the show 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/sceP5PEcB6">pic.twitter.com/sceP5PEcB6</a>
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What a performance 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/nCNr7jUyUa">pic.twitter.com/nCNr7jUyUa</a>
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Were it not for Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the defending&nbsp;champions&nbsp;would have been on the end of a hiding before half-time.

The giant Belgian needed all of his two-metre (6ft 7in) frame to claw Erling Haaland's header round the post.

Haaland had already been denied his 53rd goal of the season by Courtois with another downward header.

Rodri, John Stones and Jack Grealish also saw pot shots fly off target from the edge of the area, but Madrid's luck finally ran out on 23 minutes.

Kevin De Bruyne unpicked the lock as his pass found Silva inside the area, and he smashed high past Courtois' left hand.

The visitors had barely registered a touch inside the City half for the opening half hour, but were inches away from an equaliser 10 minutes before half-time when a piledriver from Toni Kroos rattled the crossbar.

Just as Madrid were beginning to settle, City grabbed the second goal their first half dominance deserved.

The in-form Ilkay Gundogan was denied a fifth goal in May by Eder Militao's block, but the ball looped up kindly for Silva to head into an unguarded net.

Haaland fired another blistering effort just wide and Courtois denied Silva an unlikely hat-trick as City attacks continued in waves before the break.

But they had to show a different side to their game early in the second-half to weather Madrid's reaction and ensure there was no repeat of last season's late drama between the sides.

The closest Real came to a lifeline was a dipping free-kick from David Alaba that Ederson tipped over.

At the other end Courtois continued to win his personal battle with Haaland by turning the Norwegian's shot onto the bar when one-on-one.

But City won the war to move within one match of completing a transformation in the club's fortunes since an Abu Dhabi-backed takeover in 2008.

The next blow to the Spanish giants was self-inflicted as Militao deflected Manuel Akanki's header past Courtois 15 minutes from time.

Haaland was replaced by Alvarez two minutes from the end and that was all the Argentine World Cup winner needed to make his mark as he slotted home from Phil Foden's pass.

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Manchester City produced a stunning performance to reach the Champions League final as Bernardo Silva's double put Real Madrid to the sword in 4-0 thrashing, securing a 5-1 aggregate win for the English champions on Wednesday.

Manchester City produced a stunning performance to reach the Champions League final as Bernardo Silva's double put Real Madrid to the sword in 4-0 thrashing, securing a 5-1 aggregate win for the English champions on Wednesday. Eder Militao's own goal and Julian Alvarez's strike in stoppage time rounded off a memorable night for Pep Guardiola's men as they moved to within three wins of matching Manchester United's treble in 1998/99. A fifth Premier League title in six seasons appears a formality with City needing just three points from their final three games, while United await in the FA Cup final on June 3. But it is a first ever Champions League that City crave the most and they will be strong favourites to finally conquer Europe against Inter Milan in Istanbul on June 10. Seven years into Guardiola's reign as City boss, the home fans were sent into seventh heaven by the quality of a display that rivalled the former Barcelona boss' Champions League final wins in charge of the Catalan giants in 2009 and 2011. Madrid dashed City's dreams at this stage last season with a remarkable comeback from two goals down in the dying seconds of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. But Carlo Ancelotti's men this time had no answer to City's excellence. The final is set ✅#UCLFinal pic.twitter.com/LBhHRu7j61 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 × Star of the show 🌟#UCL pic.twitter.com/sceP5PEcB6 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 Star of the show 🌟#UCL pic.twitter.com/sceP5PEcB6 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 × What a performance 👏#UCL pic.twitter.com/nCNr7jUyUa — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 × Man City are going to the final! 🔵#UCL pic.twitter.com/niNOGO5uYD — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 17, 2023 × Were it not for Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the defending champions would have been on the end of a hiding before half-time. The giant Belgian needed all of his two-metre (6ft 7in) frame to claw Erling Haaland's header round the post. Haaland had already been denied his 53rd goal of the season by Courtois with another downward header. Rodri, John Stones and Jack Grealish also saw pot shots fly off target from the edge of the area, but Madrid's luck finally ran out on 23 minutes. Kevin De Bruyne unpicked the lock as his pass found Silva inside the area, and he smashed high past Courtois' left hand. The visitors had barely registered a touch inside the City half for the opening half hour, but were inches away from an equaliser 10 minutes before half-time when a piledriver from Toni Kroos rattled the crossbar. Just as Madrid were beginning to settle, City grabbed the second goal their first half dominance deserved. The in-form Ilkay Gundogan was denied a fifth goal in May by Eder Militao's block, but the ball looped up kindly for Silva to head into an unguarded net. Haaland fired another blistering effort just wide and Courtois denied Silva an unlikely hat-trick as City attacks continued in waves before the break. But they had to show a different side to their game early in the second-half to weather Madrid's reaction and ensure there was no repeat of last season's late drama between the sides. The closest Real came to a lifeline was a dipping free-kick from David Alaba that Ederson tipped over. At the other end Courtois continued to win his personal battle with Haaland by turning the Norwegian's shot onto the bar when one-on-one. But City won the war to move within one match of completing a transformation in the club's fortunes since an Abu Dhabi-backed takeover in 2008. The next blow to the Spanish giants was self-inflicted as Militao deflected Manuel Akanki's header past Courtois 15 minutes from time. Haaland was replaced by Alvarez two minutes from the end and that was all the Argentine World Cup winner needed to make his mark as he slotted home from Phil Foden's pass. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Manchester City crush Real Madrid to reach Champions League final

Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as&nbsp;Lautaro&nbsp;Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday.

Inter will undoubtedly be the underdogs against either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on June 10, but the way they managed both legs of this all-Milan tie suggests they will be hard to beat.

The key moment of the night at the San Siro came when&nbsp;Martinez&nbsp;exchanged passes with substitute Romelu Lukaku and drilled a shot from inside the penalty area that Milan keeper Mike Maignan allowed in at his near post.

That goal effectively killed off the tie.

Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Milan had pushed hard in the first half, spearheaded by Rafael Leao who shot across the goal and past the post with one of his side's best chances.

Maignan then superbly dropped to his knees to collect Edin Dzeko's glancing header from Hakan Calhanoglu's pacy free-kick.

Lukaku's introduction in the second half proved the spark that Inter needed to extend their lead.

Absent for much of the season with injuries and with a damaged reputation following a disastrous World Cup with Belgium, Lukaku has slowly worked his way back to his best.

The forward on loan from Chelsea immediately caused problems in the Milan defence and created&nbsp;Martinez's goal to guarantee their place in their first Champions League final since the last time they won European club football's biggest prize under Jose Mourinho in 2010.

"Tutti a Istanbul", the joyous Inter fans sang.&nbsp;

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Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as Lautaro Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday.

Inter Milan reached their first Champions League final for 13 years as Lautaro Martinez's sole goal of the match gave them a 3-0 aggregate win against AC Milan on Tuesday. Inter will undoubtedly be the underdogs against either Real Madrid or Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on June 10, but the way they managed both legs of this all-Milan tie suggests they will be hard to beat. The key moment of the night at the San Siro came when Martinez exchanged passes with substitute Romelu Lukaku and drilled a shot from inside the penalty area that Milan keeper Mike Maignan allowed in at his near post. That goal effectively killed off the tie. Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Milan had pushed hard in the first half, spearheaded by Rafael Leao who shot across the goal and past the post with one of his side's best chances. Maignan then superbly dropped to his knees to collect Edin Dzeko's glancing header from Hakan Calhanoglu's pacy free-kick. Lukaku's introduction in the second half proved the spark that Inter needed to extend their lead. Absent for much of the season with injuries and with a damaged reputation following a disastrous World Cup with Belgium, Lukaku has slowly worked his way back to his best. The forward on loan from Chelsea immediately caused problems in the Milan defence and created Martinez's goal to guarantee their place in their first Champions League final since the last time they won European club football's biggest prize under Jose Mourinho in 2010. "Tutti a Istanbul", the joyous Inter fans sang. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Inter win Milan derby to reach first Champions League final in 13 years

Manchester City face Real Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League semi-finals at the Etihad Stadium, with scores level at 1-1 on aggregate. Pep Guardiola's side collapsed last season at this very stage in the competition against the eventual Champions. Will Manchester City choke again in the Champions League?

Guardiola's legacy at stake as man city face Real Madrid | WION Sports Extra

Inter Milan will have a day with destiny on Tuesday, May 16 evening as they take on city rivals AC Milan in the second leg of the Champions League (CL) semifinal. Boosted by the goals of influential Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Inter will come into the contest with a 2-0 lead and a foot in the showpiece final in Istanbul. AC Milan on the horizon will have a tough task to overpower their opponents at the San Siro, where they will be the designated away team.

<h2>What is up for stake?</h2>

Inter boss Simone Inzaghi was handed an ultimatum by the club bosses at the turn of the year to overturn the fortunes of the club after a torrid start. The manager has responded well and could take his team to an unlikely double of Champions League and Copa Italia despite a torrid campaign. Inter scored two goals in the opening 11 minutes of the first leg and struck the post with former AC Milan man Hakan Çalhanoğlu in the first half. Interestingly, Inter had a penalty overturned as well which could have seen made matters worse for the red side of the city.

On the flip side, AC Milan will look to book their place in the final for the first time since 2007 when they beat Liverpool in the final. AC Milan beat Tottenham Hotspur in the Round of 16 while they got the better of Napoli in the quarterfinal. While Zlatan Ibrahimović is not registered for the Champions League, Rafael Leao is also nursing an injury and could see Olivier Giroud lead the side in the Derby della Madonnina.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-shubman-gill-breaks-sachin-tendulkars-unique-record-with-maiden-ton-for-gujarat-titans-592794">IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans</a>

While one of the two teams will make the final next month in Istanbul, it is worth noting that the two teams are also locked in a tight race for the top four. If either team misses out on the top four, they could still play in the Champions League, however, with Inter in pole position in both competitions, AC Milan will have to turn the tables to be back in Europe’s elite next season.

<h2>Predicted line-ups</h2>

Inter XI: Onana; Darmian, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Dzeko, Martínez.

Milan XI: Maignan; Calabria, Tomori, Kjær, Theo Hernández; Tonali, Krunić; Saelemaekers, Brahim Diaz, Leao; Giroud.

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Inter Milan will have a day with destiny on Tuesday, May 16 evening as they take on city rivals AC Milan in the second leg of the Champions League (CL) semifinal.

Inter Milan will have a day with destiny on Tuesday, May 16 evening as they take on city rivals AC Milan in the second leg of the Champions League (CL) semifinal. Boosted by the goals of influential Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Inter will come into the contest with a 2-0 lead and a foot in the showpiece final in Istanbul. AC Milan on the horizon will have a tough task to overpower their opponents at the San Siro, where they will be the designated away team. What is up for stake? Inter boss Simone Inzaghi was handed an ultimatum by the club bosses at the turn of the year to overturn the fortunes of the club after a torrid start. The manager has responded well and could take his team to an unlikely double of Champions League and Copa Italia despite a torrid campaign. Inter scored two goals in the opening 11 minutes of the first leg and struck the post with former AC Milan man Hakan Çalhanoğlu in the first half. Interestingly, Inter had a penalty overturned as well which could have seen made matters worse for the red side of the city. On the flip side, AC Milan will look to book their place in the final for the first time since 2007 when they beat Liverpool in the final. AC Milan beat Tottenham Hotspur in the Round of 16 while they got the better of Napoli in the quarterfinal. While Zlatan Ibrahimović is not registered for the Champions League, Rafael Leao is also nursing an injury and could see Olivier Giroud lead the side in the Derby della Madonnina. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans While one of the two teams will make the final next month in Istanbul, it is worth noting that the two teams are also locked in a tight race for the top four. If either team misses out on the top four, they could still play in the Champions League, however, with Inter in pole position in both competitions, AC Milan will have to turn the tables to be back in Europe’s elite next season. Predicted line-ups Inter XI: Onana; Darmian, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco; Dzeko, Martínez. Milan XI: Maignan; Calabria, Tomori, Kjær, Theo Hernández; Tonali, Krunić; Saelemaekers, Brahim Diaz, Leao; Giroud. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League: Inter plot Istanbul date as city rivals AC Milan face stern task to overturn 2-0 deposit

Arsenal's dwindling title hopes are all but over after the Gunners suffered a 0-3 loss against Brighton in the English Premier League. Mikel Arteta's side were by far the best team in the first half of the season but have struggled towards the business end of the season. They have guaranteed Champions League football for next season but will end the season trophyless.

Is Arsenal's season a failure?

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-messi-jeered-in-return-as-psg-inch-closer-to-title-592164">Ligue 1: Messi jeered in return as PSG inch closer to title</a>

"The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports.

"We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season."

Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010.

Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points.

Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way.

Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside.

Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi.

Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining.

Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months.

<h2>Not good enough</h2>

Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday.

Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night.

"It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN.

"These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today."

Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February.

"Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer.

"In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work."

Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game.

Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area.

Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions.

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Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia. A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus. Also Read: Ligue 1: Messi jeered in return as PSG inch closer to title "The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports. "We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season." Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010. Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points. Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way. Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside. Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi. Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining. Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months. Not good enough Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday. Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night. "It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN. "These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today." Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February. "Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer. "In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work." Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game. Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area. Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Inter warm up for Champions League semis with win, AC Milan lose 0-2

Jose Mourinho is on track to guide AS Roma to back-to-back European titles after the Italian club defeated Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in the first leg of the Europa League semi-finals. The Portuguese though may not remain at the helm of the Italian club after this season after being linked with French giants Paris Saint-Germain. The French champions have been eyeing the elusive Champions League title since being bought by the Qatar Investment authority in 2011. Since then they have had six managers but none have delivered Champions League glory.

Will Jose Mourinho be the next PSG manager?

Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Fifth-placed Liverpool are making a late charge for the top-four in the Premier League and a berth in Europe's lucrative competition, with Klopp's team only a point behind Manchester United having played a game more.

"If I'm allowed to talk to a player, we cannot say in the moment if we have Champions League football. So, if we're already talking, then it is already clear that he already knows about that situation," Klopp told reporters. "It's obvious we have to be part of the Champions League, fight for trophies... If you want to be part of that, you're more than welcome. We cannot guarantee Champions League football."

"But all the rest is the same as before: a fantastic club with a really good football team — and a better one hopefully next year. It's really that simple. Still Liverpool. We're really attractive to a lot of players."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-semifinal-as-roma-beat-bayer-leverkusen-1-0-in-tight-first-leg-591527">Europa League Semifinal: AS Roma beat Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in tight first leg</a>

Liverpool have three league games left this season, starting with Monday's trip to Leicester City.

Leicester produced one of the greatest sporting achievements when they won the league in 2015-16 after starting the campaign as 5,000-1 outsiders, but they are fighting for survival this season, sitting two points adrift of the safety zone.

Klopp expects Monday's game to be a testing encounter for Liverpool.

"I've told the boys already, this is now the real fight. A home game for Leicester, they need all the points they can get. It will be a super difficult and super intense game," Klopp said, adding that Roberto Firmino and Naby Keita are still absent through injury.

Having won their last six league games to jump three spots to fifth, Klopp said his team are moving in the right direction.

"This period is super important because it gives us all a massive hint on how it (the future) could look," Klopp said. "We all know we are in the early stages, we have to improve, to make things more natural and more clear for the boys of what we want exactly." 
 
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Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Fifth-placed Liverpool are making a late charge for the top-four in the Premier League and a berth in Europe's lucrative competition, with Klopp's team only a point behind Manchester United having played a game more. "If I'm allowed to talk to a player, we cannot say in the moment if we have Champions League football. So, if we're already talking, then it is already clear that he already knows about that situation," Klopp told reporters. "It's obvious we have to be part of the Champions League, fight for trophies... If you want to be part of that, you're more than welcome. We cannot guarantee Champions League football." "But all the rest is the same as before: a fantastic club with a really good football team — and a better one hopefully next year. It's really that simple. Still Liverpool. We're really attractive to a lot of players." ALSO READ: Europa League Semifinal: AS Roma beat Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in tight first leg Liverpool have three league games left this season, starting with Monday's trip to Leicester City. Leicester produced one of the greatest sporting achievements when they won the league in 2015-16 after starting the campaign as 5,000-1 outsiders, but they are fighting for survival this season, sitting two points adrift of the safety zone. Klopp expects Monday's game to be a testing encounter for Liverpool. "I've told the boys already, this is now the real fight. A home game for Leicester, they need all the points they can get. It will be a super difficult and super intense game," Klopp said, adding that Roberto Firmino and Naby Keita are still absent through injury. Having won their last six league games to jump three spots to fifth, Klopp said his team are moving in the right direction. "This period is super important because it gives us all a massive hint on how it (the future) could look," Klopp said. "We all know we are in the early stages, we have to improve, to make things more natural and more clear for the boys of what we want exactly." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

We will attract players even without Champions League, says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp

Manchester City will be "unstoppable" at home when they host Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, winger Jack Grealish said. City earned a 1-1 draw in the first leg in the Spanish capital on Tuesday after Kevin De Bruyne's stunning low strike cancelled out Vinicius Jr's opener for Real.

The reigning Premier League champions are unbeaten at home since November and will hope to stretch that record in the second leg on May 17. "At the Etihad, we feel unstoppable," Grealish told BT Sport. "We came here (at the Bernabeu) to try to win, but it shows our character to go a goal down in a place like this.

"In the end, I think it was a fair result. They had their chances, we had a few." City are chasing the treble, having booked their berth in the FA Cup final and leading the league standings by one point with four games left.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/de-bruyne-rocket-leaves-man-city-and-madrid-level-590788">De Bruyne rocket leaves Man City and Madrid level</a>

Grealish said the team "learned so much" since they were knocked out by Real in the Champions League semi-finals last season. "We have a new team this year, different players... We have the perfect balance of experience and world-class youngsters," the England international added.

Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said the second leg will be like a "final" for the Spanish side, who are record 14-times Champions League winners. "Next week will be like a final, and we are quite good at winning finals," Courtois said. "Hopefully we can mentalise it like that even though it is at City and it will be tough for us."

Manchester City will be "unstoppable" at home when they host Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, winger Jack Grealish said. City earned a 1-1 draw in the first leg in the Spanish capital on Tuesday after Kevin De Bruyne's stunning low strike cancelled out Vinicius Jr's opener for Real.

Manchester City will be "unstoppable" at home when they host Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, winger Jack Grealish said. City earned a 1-1 draw in the first leg in the Spanish capital on Tuesday after Kevin De Bruyne's stunning low strike cancelled out Vinicius Jr's opener for Real. The reigning Premier League champions are unbeaten at home since November and will hope to stretch that record in the second leg on May 17. "At the Etihad, we feel unstoppable," Grealish told BT Sport. "We came here (at the Bernabeu) to try to win, but it shows our character to go a goal down in a place like this. "In the end, I think it was a fair result. They had their chances, we had a few." City are chasing the treble, having booked their berth in the FA Cup final and leading the league standings by one point with four games left. Also Read: De Bruyne rocket leaves Man City and Madrid level Grealish said the team "learned so much" since they were knocked out by Real in the Champions League semi-finals last season. "We have a new team this year, different players... We have the perfect balance of experience and world-class youngsters," the England international added. Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said the second leg will be like a "final" for the Spanish side, who are record 14-times Champions League winners. "Next week will be like a final, and we are quite good at winning finals," Courtois said. "Hopefully we can mentalise it like that even though it is at City and it will be tough for us."

UCL: Manchester City will be 'unstoppable' at home against Real Madrid, says winger Jack Grealish

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