Holders Real Madrid face Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals again. Pep Guardiola's side are the in-form team but Real tend to raise their game for the Champions League. Who will prevail in the battle of the heavyweights?

Will Real Madrid puncture Man City's treble charge? | WION Sports Extra

Real Madrid legend Luka Modric is set to stay at the club after reportedly agreeing to a one-year contract extension on his current deal. Modric, signed in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, will have completed 12 years at the Spanish giants when his contract expires in 2024. Currently, his contract was set for renewal, with Modric expected to either extend or hang his boots as he desired to end his playing career at the helm of the 14-time European Champions.

The deal, yet to be made public, was on the table for several weeks, with Modric keen on the stay at the club. While there were other offers, the 2018 Ballon d’Or was determined to stay with Carlo Ancelotti’s side who bagged yet another title on Saturday evening. The Spanish giants won their 20th Copa del Rey title that saw them end a nine-year drought for domestic cup success.

The new deal will see Modric complete 12 years at the Spanish giants where he has been part of a trophy-laden success story. In 11 seasons so far, he has won the Copa del Rey twice, and La Liga thrice, while he has won the Champions League on five occasions. His other accolades include the prestigious Ballon d’Or he won in 2018 for his excellent show for Real and the Croatian national side, having led them to the final of the World Cup.

Rodrygo Goes fired Real Madrid to Copa del Rey glory with a clinical double in a 2-1 victory over Osasuna in Seville on Saturday, with Brazilian compatriot Vinicius Junior playing a part in both goals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sunil-gavaskar-slams-mi-skipper-rohit-for-playing-rash-shot-against-csk-wants-him-to-take-break-589890">IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar slams MI skipper Rohit for playing rash shot against CSK, wants him to take break</a>

Carlo Ancelotti's Madrid earned their 20th Spanish Cup at La Cartuja in their 40th final, ending a nine-year wait to lift the trophy again.

Osasuna, who have never won a major trophy, fought well but ultimately fell short against the reigning Spanish and European champions, who face Manchester City on Tuesday in the Champions League semi-finals.

Madrid have now won all six of the trophies available to them during Ancelotti's second reign at the club after the Italian returned in 2021.

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Real Madrid legend Luka Modric is set to stay at the club after reportedly agreeing to a one-year contract extension on his current deal. Modric, signed in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, will have completed 12 years at the Spanish giants when his contract expires in 2024.

Real Madrid legend Luka Modric is set to stay at the club after reportedly agreeing to a one-year contract extension on his current deal. Modric, signed in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, will have completed 12 years at the Spanish giants when his contract expires in 2024. Currently, his contract was set for renewal, with Modric expected to either extend or hang his boots as he desired to end his playing career at the helm of the 14-time European Champions. The deal, yet to be made public, was on the table for several weeks, with Modric keen on the stay at the club. While there were other offers, the 2018 Ballon d’Or was determined to stay with Carlo Ancelotti’s side who bagged yet another title on Saturday evening. The Spanish giants won their 20th Copa del Rey title that saw them end a nine-year drought for domestic cup success. The new deal will see Modric complete 12 years at the Spanish giants where he has been part of a trophy-laden success story. In 11 seasons so far, he has won the Copa del Rey twice, and La Liga thrice, while he has won the Champions League on five occasions. His other accolades include the prestigious Ballon d’Or he won in 2018 for his excellent show for Real and the Croatian national side, having led them to the final of the World Cup. Rodrygo Goes fired Real Madrid to Copa del Rey glory with a clinical double in a 2-1 victory over Osasuna in Seville on Saturday, with Brazilian compatriot Vinicius Junior playing a part in both goals. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar slams MI skipper Rohit for playing rash shot against CSK, wants him to take break Carlo Ancelotti's Madrid earned their 20th Spanish Cup at La Cartuja in their 40th final, ending a nine-year wait to lift the trophy again. Osasuna, who have never won a major trophy, fought well but ultimately fell short against the reigning Spanish and European champions, who face Manchester City on Tuesday in the Champions League semi-finals. Madrid have now won all six of the trophies available to them during Ancelotti's second reign at the club after the Italian returned in 2021. 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.

Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024

Italian Football has undoubtedly had its best season in over a decade, with Inter and AC Milan both in the Champions League semi-finals. Napoli are poised to become Serie A champions and have been one of the best teams in Europe this season. Can the Italian clubs sustain this success and challenge the big boys of the Premier League and Liga?

Can Inter or AC Milan win the Champions League?

The 2022/23 edition of the Champions League has now reached the business end with just four teams remaining in the competition. English Champions Manchester City will take on holders Real Madrid in a replay of last year's semi-final. The second semi-final will see a Milan Derby after 18 years. Who will reign supreme in Istanbul on June 10?

Who will win the Champions League? | WION Sports Xtra

AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians.

Giroud tapped in what turned out to be the decisive goal two minutes before the break after a blistering run from Rafael Leao, who was once again key as Milan beat Napoli for the third time this month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-champions-manchester-city-to-expand-etihad-stadium-to-over-60000-capacity-583810">Champions Manchester City to expand Etihad stadium to over 60,000 capacity</a>

The France striker's 13th goal of the season saved his blushes after he missed a penalty midway through the first half.

Stefano Pioli's side now have the prospect of a local derby in the last four as Inter Milan hold a two-goal lead ahead of their second leg with Benfica on Wednesday night.

"I'm very proud of this team, with that spirit we can dream of anything," said Giroud to Mediaset.

"In the next round there will be another hard match whether it's against Inter or Benfica, but if we keep this spirit we can go anywhere."

After the match Mediaset showed Leao a video of Ruud Gullit setting up a goal with an almost identical run at Napoli in 1988.

"It's the same," said a shocked Leao.&nbsp;

"It's what I try to do, go at players, it's how I can make difference. If I can't score I look for my teammates. I saw Giroud there."

Milan have not contested a Champions League semi-final since they were crowned kings of Europe for the seventh and most recent time in 2007.

Victor Osimhen scored in stoppage time but it was not enough for Napoli who are creaking as they come towards the end of what has been a phenomenal season.

Luciano Spalletti's once freewheeling team are &nbsp;struggling for goals and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also had a penalty saved with 10 minutes remaining, a miss which condemned his team to defeat.

Napoli are on the verge of their first league title since 1990, but after being placed on the easier side of the draw Tuesday's exit was an underwhelming end to their European adventure.

<h2>Well-organised Milan</h2>

Their hardcore fans had agreed a truce in an ideological battle with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis which had made the atmosphere at home matches poisonous, and on Tuesday a packed Stadio Maradona was initially in fine voice.

Their team went straight at Milan, dominating possession and pushing the opposition back towards the vibrating stands.

However, the best they could muster was two long-distance efforts from Matteo Politano which crept wide. On Milan's first serious attack Mario Rui clattered into Leao and handed Giroud the chance to give the away side a huge advantage from the penalty spot.

However Giroud's weak effort was easily stopped by Alex Meret, whose save unleashed a roar from the stands, a colossal racket repeated when he prevented Giroud netting a more than presentable chance shortly afterwards.

Napoli had scored at least three goals in all of their previous Champions League home games this season but looked short on ideas against a well-organised Milan defence which kept a tight lid on Osimhen.

And as the hosts pushed to level the scores on aggregate, Milan pounced at the end of the first half.

Leao scooped up the ball after Tanguy Ndombele's sloppy control and charged from deep his own half, breezed past three Napoli players and rolled an unmissable chance across to Giroud, who fell to his knees in a mixture of joy and relief.

Napoli were again on the front foot&nbsp;after the break but struggled to create much, with Mathias Olivera's header wide from a 64th-minute corner the best chance until Fikayo Tomori handled Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross as he put in a challenge in the penalty area.

Kvaratskhelia fluffed his own spot-kick just like Giroud, meaning Osimhen's bullet header in the 93rd minute meant nothing for Napoli who will wonder what might have been after wasting so many chances in the first leg.

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AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians.

AC Milan reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday after Olivier Giroud struck the crucial goal in a 1-1 draw at Napoli which completed a 2-1 aggregate victory over their fellow Italians. Giroud tapped in what turned out to be the decisive goal two minutes before the break after a blistering run from Rafael Leao, who was once again key as Milan beat Napoli for the third time this month. Also Read: Champions Manchester City to expand Etihad stadium to over 60,000 capacity The France striker's 13th goal of the season saved his blushes after he missed a penalty midway through the first half. Stefano Pioli's side now have the prospect of a local derby in the last four as Inter Milan hold a two-goal lead ahead of their second leg with Benfica on Wednesday night. "I'm very proud of this team, with that spirit we can dream of anything," said Giroud to Mediaset. "In the next round there will be another hard match whether it's against Inter or Benfica, but if we keep this spirit we can go anywhere." After the match Mediaset showed Leao a video of Ruud Gullit setting up a goal with an almost identical run at Napoli in 1988. "It's the same," said a shocked Leao. "It's what I try to do, go at players, it's how I can make difference. If I can't score I look for my teammates. I saw Giroud there." Milan have not contested a Champions League semi-final since they were crowned kings of Europe for the seventh and most recent time in 2007. Victor Osimhen scored in stoppage time but it was not enough for Napoli who are creaking as they come towards the end of what has been a phenomenal season. Luciano Spalletti's once freewheeling team are struggling for goals and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also had a penalty saved with 10 minutes remaining, a miss which condemned his team to defeat. Napoli are on the verge of their first league title since 1990, but after being placed on the easier side of the draw Tuesday's exit was an underwhelming end to their European adventure. Well-organised Milan Their hardcore fans had agreed a truce in an ideological battle with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis which had made the atmosphere at home matches poisonous, and on Tuesday a packed Stadio Maradona was initially in fine voice. Their team went straight at Milan, dominating possession and pushing the opposition back towards the vibrating stands. However, the best they could muster was two long-distance efforts from Matteo Politano which crept wide. On Milan's first serious attack Mario Rui clattered into Leao and handed Giroud the chance to give the away side a huge advantage from the penalty spot. However Giroud's weak effort was easily stopped by Alex Meret, whose save unleashed a roar from the stands, a colossal racket repeated when he prevented Giroud netting a more than presentable chance shortly afterwards. Napoli had scored at least three goals in all of their previous Champions League home games this season but looked short on ideas against a well-organised Milan defence which kept a tight lid on Osimhen. And as the hosts pushed to level the scores on aggregate, Milan pounced at the end of the first half. Leao scooped up the ball after Tanguy Ndombele's sloppy control and charged from deep his own half, breezed past three Napoli players and rolled an unmissable chance across to Giroud, who fell to his knees in a mixture of joy and relief. Napoli were again on the front foot after the break but struggled to create much, with Mathias Olivera's header wide from a 64th-minute corner the best chance until Fikayo Tomori handled Giovanni Di Lorenzo's low cross as he put in a challenge in the penalty area. Kvaratskhelia fluffed his own spot-kick just like Giroud, meaning Osimhen's bullet header in the 93rd minute meant nothing for Napoli who will wonder what might have been after wasting so many chances in the first leg. 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: AC Milan enter semis after Giroud's equaliser against Napoli

Rodrygo scored twice as Real Madrid cruised into the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday, completing an emphatic 4-0 aggregate win against Chelsea that ends a disastrous season for the London club.

The home team, with Frank Lampard back in the dugout for a second spell, came into the match at Stamford Bridge with form and history against them.

They started brightly but rued a number of huge missed chances that would have heaped pressure on the defending champions.

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The Spanish giants made Chelsea pay for their profligacy when Rodrygo scored in the 58th minute after a speedy counter-attack and he made it 2-0 with 10 minutes to go.

"We suffered a lot and helped us stay at 0-0 at the end of the first half," Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti told BT Sport.&nbsp;

"Second half we were much better and scored the two goals. We are happy to have qualified."

Chelsea, the 2021 European champions, have now lost all four of their matches since Lampard returned to the club as caretaker boss earlier this month in place of the sacked Graham Potter.

Lampard, who also managed the club from 2019 until early 2021, bemoaned his team's profligacy.

"We played really well for 60 minutes," he said. "We created chances but you have to take them."

The former Chelsea midfielder said his men must find motivation from playing for the club as they contemplate a bleak final few weeks of the season.

"You're playing for Chelsea," he said. "So regardless, every game you play you have to give everything. I won't let anyone off the hook and we have to show. That standard cannot drop."

Ancelotti stuck with the same team that won the first leg 2-0 last week while Chelsea caretaker boss Lampard restored Reece James, Mateo Kovacic and N'Golo Kante to his line-up.

Roared on by an expectant crowd despite their current woes, the home side made a good start against the 14-time winners.

<h2>Chances</h2>

They had a glorious chance to take the lead but Kante skewed his left-foot shot wide from about 12 yards.

The visitors, content to bide their time, looked sharp on the break.

Midway through the opening period Rodrygo created space for himself and thumped an effort against the outside of the post from an acute angle while Luka Modric tested Kepa.

But Chelsea should have been ahead on the stroke of half-time when James fizzed a ball across the box from the right and it fell to Marc Cucurella at the back post.

The defender took a touch and shot but Thibaut Courtois came flying out of his goal to save.

Kante had another golden opportunity to take the lead early in the second half but his close-range effort hit Eder Militao and deflected away to safety.

Real took the wind out of Chelsea's sails with just over half an hour to go, when Rodrygo&nbsp;scored from close range after an assist by Vinicius Junior.

Lampard made a number of attacking substitutions, bringing on Raheem Sterling, Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk in a desperate bid to get back into the match.

But Rodrygo found the net again in the 80th minute, tapping home after a clever assist from Federico Valverde.

Real Madrid will likely play Manchester City in the semi-finals, with Pep Guardiola's team 3-0 up against Bayern Munich after the first leg of their last-eight tie.

Former Chelsea boss Ancelotti is chasing a record-extending fifth win as a coach in the tournament.

But Chelsea, used to winning silverware over the past two decades, are contemplating the final stretch of a horrendous campaign despite a staggering spend of more than £500 million ($621 million) in the first year of the club's new ownership.

Trophyless this season, they are languishing in 11th in the Premier League and look unlikely to qualify for European football next season.

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Rodrygo scored twice as Real Madrid cruised into the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday, completing an emphatic 4-0 aggregate win against Chelsea that ends a disastrous season for the London club.

Rodrygo scored twice as Real Madrid cruised into the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday, completing an emphatic 4-0 aggregate win against Chelsea that ends a disastrous season for the London club. The home team, with Frank Lampard back in the dugout for a second spell, came into the match at Stamford Bridge with form and history against them. They started brightly but rued a number of huge missed chances that would have heaped pressure on the defending champions. Also Read: Champions Manchester City to expand Etihad stadium to over 60,000 capacity The Spanish giants made Chelsea pay for their profligacy when Rodrygo scored in the 58th minute after a speedy counter-attack and he made it 2-0 with 10 minutes to go. "We suffered a lot and helped us stay at 0-0 at the end of the first half," Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti told BT Sport. "Second half we were much better and scored the two goals. We are happy to have qualified." Chelsea, the 2021 European champions, have now lost all four of their matches since Lampard returned to the club as caretaker boss earlier this month in place of the sacked Graham Potter. Lampard, who also managed the club from 2019 until early 2021, bemoaned his team's profligacy. "We played really well for 60 minutes," he said. "We created chances but you have to take them." The former Chelsea midfielder said his men must find motivation from playing for the club as they contemplate a bleak final few weeks of the season. "You're playing for Chelsea," he said. "So regardless, every game you play you have to give everything. I won't let anyone off the hook and we have to show. That standard cannot drop." Ancelotti stuck with the same team that won the first leg 2-0 last week while Chelsea caretaker boss Lampard restored Reece James, Mateo Kovacic and N'Golo Kante to his line-up. Roared on by an expectant crowd despite their current woes, the home side made a good start against the 14-time winners. Chances They had a glorious chance to take the lead but Kante skewed his left-foot shot wide from about 12 yards. The visitors, content to bide their time, looked sharp on the break. Midway through the opening period Rodrygo created space for himself and thumped an effort against the outside of the post from an acute angle while Luka Modric tested Kepa. But Chelsea should have been ahead on the stroke of half-time when James fizzed a ball across the box from the right and it fell to Marc Cucurella at the back post. The defender took a touch and shot but Thibaut Courtois came flying out of his goal to save. Kante had another golden opportunity to take the lead early in the second half but his close-range effort hit Eder Militao and deflected away to safety. Real took the wind out of Chelsea's sails with just over half an hour to go, when Rodrygo scored from close range after an assist by Vinicius Junior. Lampard made a number of attacking substitutions, bringing on Raheem Sterling, Joao Felix and Mykhailo Mudryk in a desperate bid to get back into the match. But Rodrygo found the net again in the 80th minute, tapping home after a clever assist from Federico Valverde. Real Madrid will likely play Manchester City in the semi-finals, with Pep Guardiola's team 3-0 up against Bayern Munich after the first leg of their last-eight tie. Former Chelsea boss Ancelotti is chasing a record-extending fifth win as a coach in the tournament. But Chelsea, used to winning silverware over the past two decades, are contemplating the final stretch of a horrendous campaign despite a staggering spend of more than £500 million ($621 million) in the first year of the club's new ownership. Trophyless this season, they are languishing in 11th in the Premier League and look unlikely to qualify for European football next season. 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 brush aside Chelsea 4-0 to enter semis

Chelsea have been knocked out of the Champions League by Holders Real Madrid in the quarter-finals. The Blues' season is going from bad to worse after four straight defeats under Frank Lampard. Chelsea have virtually nothing to play for in the Premier League and will end the campaign in mid-table mediocrity. Has the club lost its identity under the ownership of Todd Boehly?

Chelsea knocked out of the Champions League | WION Sports Xtra

Liverpool ended their five-game winless Premier league run in style by hammering Leeds United 6-1. Digo Jota and Mohamed Salah both scored twice as the Reds revived hopes of a top-four finish. With Eight games left, can Liverpool salvage their season by qualifying for the Champions league?

Liverpool crush Leeds 6-1 to keep season alive

Inter Milan put one foot into the Champions League semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Benfica on Tuesday, with Nicolo Barella and Romelu Lukaku netting in Lisbon.

The Italians, three-time winners, took a commanding quarter-final first leg lead at the Estadio da Luz, inflicting Benfica's first defeat in the competition.

After an even first half, Barella headed home from Alessandro Bastoni's cross and substitute Romelu Lukaku netted the second from the penalty spot late on.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/haaland-hits-45-as-man-city-demolish-bayern-581498">Haaland hits 45 as Man City demolish Bayern</a>

Roger Schmidt's Benfica, aiming to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 1990, were not able to put a glove on the visitors, who controlled the pace of the game.

Despite Inter's poor form, they conjured a patient, professional display when they needed it most.

Having scored two goals in their previous five games across all competitions, they managed the same tally in Lisbon with clinical finishing.

"It's been one of our best games this season," Inter midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan told British broadcaster BT Sport.

"We were dominating all over the pitch. We were doubling up and were everywhere, helping each other and we got (rewarded) for it. We've done a great job.

"But it's still not over, we still have to face them in a week and we know it's not going to be easy."

Neither side was able to create clear chances in a tight opening period.

The closest Benfica came was Andre Onana blocking a Rafa Silva drive after Federico Dimarco accidentally headed the ball into his path in the box.

Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi hammered over from 30 yards at the other end.

The Italians had the opportunity to hit the hosts on the break after half an hour, but Lautaro Martinez played a poor pass which was blocked, with 37-year-old target man Edin Dzeko alone in space.

Alex Grimaldo smashed an effort wide from distance, with Benfica frustrated and unable to get striker Goncalo Ramos involved.

With Inter pressing high up the pitch, the Eagles could not hit their flowing best, or anything close to it.

<h2>Impressive Inter</h2>

Inter Milan broke the deadlock early in the second half when Barella headed Bastoni's looping cross back across goal and into the bottom corner.

The goal crowned a superb performance from the Italy international, while Inter's defence kept a sixth clean sheet in nine Champions League matches this season.

Schmidt sent on David Neres for midfielder Florentino in search of the equaliser, but Inter doubled their lead with eight minutes remaining.

Joao Mario, one of Benfica's best players this season, handled Denzel Dumfries's cross, gifting his former side a penalty.&nbsp;

Lukaku drilled it beyond the reach of Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, answering some criticism of his recent form.

Coach Simone Inzaghi had selected Dzeko ahead of Lukaku after the Belgian had missed gilt-edged chances in recent weeks, but he did not miss in a high-pressure moment.

Benfica might have pulled a goal back deep in stoppage time but Onana made a fine save to deny Ramos, who seemed poised to score.

"I said that we had to come here and play without fear because we could win -- we did just that," Onana told UEFA.

"But we cannot think that we are already in the semi-final because we are not. We still need another great game like today's next week."

The victory gives Inter a fine chance of setting up an all-Italian semi-final against Serie A leaders Napoli or city rivals AC Milan.

Inter, who beat another Portuguese side, Porto, in the last 16, host Benfica on Wednesday April 19 at the San Siro in the second leg.

Benfica defender Antonio Silva said he believes his team can go to Milan and score three to produce a comeback.

"We deserved more and we had the opportunity for it, the fair result was a draw," Silva told Portuguese broadcaster Eleven.

"This is the first part of the tie. We are going to do everything we can in Milan and we have to score at least three goals to win and go through."

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Inter Milan put one foot into the Champions League semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Benfica on Tuesday, with Nicolo Barella and Romelu Lukaku netting in Lisbon.

Inter Milan put one foot into the Champions League semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 win at Benfica on Tuesday, with Nicolo Barella and Romelu Lukaku netting in Lisbon. The Italians, three-time winners, took a commanding quarter-final first leg lead at the Estadio da Luz, inflicting Benfica's first defeat in the competition. After an even first half, Barella headed home from Alessandro Bastoni's cross and substitute Romelu Lukaku netted the second from the penalty spot late on. Also Read: Haaland hits 45 as Man City demolish Bayern Roger Schmidt's Benfica, aiming to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 1990, were not able to put a glove on the visitors, who controlled the pace of the game. Despite Inter's poor form, they conjured a patient, professional display when they needed it most. Having scored two goals in their previous five games across all competitions, they managed the same tally in Lisbon with clinical finishing. "It's been one of our best games this season," Inter midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan told British broadcaster BT Sport. "We were dominating all over the pitch. We were doubling up and were everywhere, helping each other and we got (rewarded) for it. We've done a great job. "But it's still not over, we still have to face them in a week and we know it's not going to be easy." Neither side was able to create clear chances in a tight opening period. The closest Benfica came was Andre Onana blocking a Rafa Silva drive after Federico Dimarco accidentally headed the ball into his path in the box. Inter Milan defender Francesco Acerbi hammered over from 30 yards at the other end. The Italians had the opportunity to hit the hosts on the break after half an hour, but Lautaro Martinez played a poor pass which was blocked, with 37-year-old target man Edin Dzeko alone in space. Alex Grimaldo smashed an effort wide from distance, with Benfica frustrated and unable to get striker Goncalo Ramos involved. With Inter pressing high up the pitch, the Eagles could not hit their flowing best, or anything close to it. Impressive Inter Inter Milan broke the deadlock early in the second half when Barella headed Bastoni's looping cross back across goal and into the bottom corner. The goal crowned a superb performance from the Italy international, while Inter's defence kept a sixth clean sheet in nine Champions League matches this season. Schmidt sent on David Neres for midfielder Florentino in search of the equaliser, but Inter doubled their lead with eight minutes remaining. Joao Mario, one of Benfica's best players this season, handled Denzel Dumfries's cross, gifting his former side a penalty. Lukaku drilled it beyond the reach of Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, answering some criticism of his recent form. Coach Simone Inzaghi had selected Dzeko ahead of Lukaku after the Belgian had missed gilt-edged chances in recent weeks, but he did not miss in a high-pressure moment. Benfica might have pulled a goal back deep in stoppage time but Onana made a fine save to deny Ramos, who seemed poised to score. "I said that we had to come here and play without fear because we could win -- we did just that," Onana told UEFA. "But we cannot think that we are already in the semi-final because we are not. We still need another great game like today's next week." The victory gives Inter a fine chance of setting up an all-Italian semi-final against Serie A leaders Napoli or city rivals AC Milan. Inter, who beat another Portuguese side, Porto, in the last 16, host Benfica on Wednesday April 19 at the San Siro in the second leg. Benfica defender Antonio Silva said he believes his team can go to Milan and score three to produce a comeback. "We deserved more and we had the opportunity for it, the fair result was a draw," Silva told Portuguese broadcaster Eleven. "This is the first part of the tie. We are going to do everything we can in Milan and we have to score at least three goals to win and go through." 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 down Benfica 2-0 to put one foot into semis

When Karim Benzema struck a magnificent hat-trick against Barcelona last week in the Copa del Rey, it served a dual purpose.

The striker knocked Real Madrid's bitter rivals out of the Spanish Cup at Camp Nou, and, with the world watching on, issued a powerful statement of intent as the season reaches its business end.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-we-really-want-to-win-it-manchester-citys-pep-guardiola-on-clash-against-bayern-munich-581073">Champions League: 'We really want to win it,' - Manchester City's Pep Guardiola on clash against Bayern Munich</a>

Los Blancos welcome Chelsea on Wednesday to the Santiago Bernabeu in a first leg Champions League quarter-final clash, and the Blues will be on red alert trying to stop the irrepressible Benzema.

Madrid, aiming to win the trophy for the sixth time in 10 seasons, have burst into life in recent matches, scoring 12 goals in their last three games, including the 4-0 romp against Barcelona.

They suffered a 3-2 defeat on Saturday in La Liga against Villarreal, but coach Carlo Ancelotti made six changes from the side that beat Barcelona to keep the likes of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric fresh to face Chelsea.

Benzema netted consecutive hat-tricks against Real Valladolid and Barcelona before that, like Madrid he is finding his best form at the crunch moments.

"He's hit the switch," said Ancelotti after the Clasico triumph.

"Working in the international break has helped him, he's in good shape to make the difference."

The Italian likened his team to a boiler, hitting the right temperature at the right time.

"When the team is close to a title, the temperature of the boiler goes up," Ancelotti warned at the start of March.

<h2>Temperature rising</h2>

After the 4-0 win at Camp Nou which saw Madrid reach the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2014, Ancelotti brought up the boiler again.

"The boiler has returned to the right temperature at the most important moment of the season," he said.

Benzema's own temperature has fluctuated this season, from moments of high quality to weeks sidelined with injury problems.

The 35-year-old Frenchman spent much of October and November on the sidelines and he missed the World Cup after sustaining a thigh problem.

Benzema failed to score a goal in the Champions League group stages but hit three against Liverpool across both legs of the last 16 clash.

Chelsea are familiar with the damage that the striker can do, with the striker netting a hat-trick last season at Stamford Bridge against the Blues in the quarter-finals in a 3-1 first leg win.

Despite Thomas Tuchel's side battling back at the Bernabeu, the hosts forced the game to extra-time and Benzema headed home decisively in the 96th minute after Antonio Rudiger, now at Madrid, slipped.

It was a thrilling night of European football but despite Chelsea's best efforts in a 3-2 win, Benzema and Madrid marched on -- as they so often do.

Madrid went on to lift the trophy by beating Liverpool in the final in Paris. Now their sights are set on Istanbul.

"The truth is it was hard for us to be 100 percent motivated, that's quite normal," said Ancelotti after Madrid loss on Saturday in La Liga.

The coach withdrew Benzema before the hour mark with his side 2-1 up against Villarreal, resting the striker for Chelsea's visit.&nbsp;

Eventually Madrid fell to defeat, with their talisman only able to watch on from the sidelines.

"The temperature of the boiler went down a bit today," admitted Ancelotti after the game, continuing his metaphor.

"But on Wednesday we will be flat out."

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When Karim Benzema struck a magnificent hat-trick against Barcelona last week in the Copa del Rey, it served a dual purpose. The striker knocked Real Madrid's bitter rivals out of the Spanish Cup at Camp Nou, and, with the world watching on, issued a powerful statement of intent as the season reaches its business end.

When Karim Benzema struck a magnificent hat-trick against Barcelona last week in the Copa del Rey, it served a dual purpose. The striker knocked Real Madrid's bitter rivals out of the Spanish Cup at Camp Nou, and, with the world watching on, issued a powerful statement of intent as the season reaches its business end. Also Read: Champions League: 'We really want to win it,' - Manchester City's Pep Guardiola on clash against Bayern Munich Los Blancos welcome Chelsea on Wednesday to the Santiago Bernabeu in a first leg Champions League quarter-final clash, and the Blues will be on red alert trying to stop the irrepressible Benzema. Madrid, aiming to win the trophy for the sixth time in 10 seasons, have burst into life in recent matches, scoring 12 goals in their last three games, including the 4-0 romp against Barcelona. They suffered a 3-2 defeat on Saturday in La Liga against Villarreal, but coach Carlo Ancelotti made six changes from the side that beat Barcelona to keep the likes of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric fresh to face Chelsea. Benzema netted consecutive hat-tricks against Real Valladolid and Barcelona before that, like Madrid he is finding his best form at the crunch moments. "He's hit the switch," said Ancelotti after the Clasico triumph. "Working in the international break has helped him, he's in good shape to make the difference." The Italian likened his team to a boiler, hitting the right temperature at the right time. "When the team is close to a title, the temperature of the boiler goes up," Ancelotti warned at the start of March. Temperature rising After the 4-0 win at Camp Nou which saw Madrid reach the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2014, Ancelotti brought up the boiler again. "The boiler has returned to the right temperature at the most important moment of the season," he said. Benzema's own temperature has fluctuated this season, from moments of high quality to weeks sidelined with injury problems. The 35-year-old Frenchman spent much of October and November on the sidelines and he missed the World Cup after sustaining a thigh problem. Benzema failed to score a goal in the Champions League group stages but hit three against Liverpool across both legs of the last 16 clash. Chelsea are familiar with the damage that the striker can do, with the striker netting a hat-trick last season at Stamford Bridge against the Blues in the quarter-finals in a 3-1 first leg win. Despite Thomas Tuchel's side battling back at the Bernabeu, the hosts forced the game to extra-time and Benzema headed home decisively in the 96th minute after Antonio Rudiger, now at Madrid, slipped. It was a thrilling night of European football but despite Chelsea's best efforts in a 3-2 win, Benzema and Madrid marched on -- as they so often do. Madrid went on to lift the trophy by beating Liverpool in the final in Paris. Now their sights are set on Istanbul. "The truth is it was hard for us to be 100 percent motivated, that's quite normal," said Ancelotti after Madrid loss on Saturday in La Liga. The coach withdrew Benzema before the hour mark with his side 2-1 up against Villarreal, resting the striker for Chelsea's visit. Eventually Madrid fell to defeat, with their talisman only able to watch on from the sidelines. "The temperature of the boiler went down a bit today," admitted Ancelotti after the game, continuing his metaphor. "But on Wednesday we will be flat out." 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.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema raring to go against Chelsea

The Champions League is approaching its decisive round with just eight teams remaining in the draw. After Bayern Munich, Benfica, Chelsea and AC Milan booked their places in the last-eight they were joined by reigning champions Real Madrid, Inter, Napoli and Manchester City following their respective wins this week. Three teams from Italy, two from England and one each from Spain, Germany and Portugal. Who will lift the trophy in Istanbul on June 10?

Who will win the 2023 champions league?

On Wednesday (March 15), violent clashes erupted&nbsp;between police and Eintracht Frankfurt fans after the Italian authorities announced the ban of German supporters from the stadium due to security concerns. It is to be noted that violent scenes had taken place&nbsp;between fans in the first leg as well. However, the story remained the same this time around as well following the announcement of the ban of the German fans.

It led to the Frankfurt fans taking on the police in Naples with the supporters throwing objects towards riot police and setting fire to a police car. Here's the shocking video of the horrific incident:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/benzema-guides-madrid-past-liverpool-to-reach-champions-league-quarters-572457">Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters</a>

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Le immagini che arrivano live da piazza del Gesù a Napoli. 
 
Gli ultras tedeschi stanno danneggiato diversi mezzi delle forze dell'ordine. La tensione resta altissima in attesa del calcio d'inizio.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Napoli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Napoli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sportitalia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sportitalia</a> <a href="https://t.co/3S9v7rosbC">pic.twitter.com/3S9v7rosbC</a>
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It is to be noted that around 400 ticketless Eintracht Frankfurt supporters reached Naples on Tuesday (March 14) via train, from Salerno, and arrived at a&nbsp;hotel next to the one where their team was placed. This isn't the first time such an incident took place as the situation went out of hands during the first leg as well. Back then,&nbsp;fans of both teams squared off against each other, in Frankfurt, with police having labelled that game as high risk.

In a statement, Frankfurt director Philipp Reschke said: "About 150 Napoli fans came and attacked ours (at Piazza del Gesu). Then it was set in motion. It ended in a relatively long confrontation with a lot of pyrotechnics. It seemed a bit like that was where the groups that were looking for each other found each other. We saw a burning police vehicle. The police themselves could not say who had started it."

After winning the first leg 2-0, Napoli defeated Frankfurt 3-0 in the second leg&nbsp;with Victor Osimhen striking twice and one goal from Piotr Zielinski.

On Wednesday (March 15), violent clashes erupted between police and Eintracht Frankfurt fans after the Italian authorities announced the ban of German supporters from the stadium due to security concerns.

On Wednesday (March 15), violent clashes erupted between police and Eintracht Frankfurt fans after the Italian authorities announced the ban of German supporters from the stadium due to security concerns. It is to be noted that violent scenes had taken place between fans in the first leg as well. However, the story remained the same this time around as well following the announcement of the ban of the German fans. It led to the Frankfurt fans taking on the police in Naples with the supporters throwing objects towards riot police and setting fire to a police car. Here's the shocking video of the horrific incident: Also read: Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters 𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗜 𝗘 𝗚𝗨𝗘𝗥𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗟𝗜𝗔 𝗔 𝗡𝗔𝗣𝗢𝗟𝗜‼️🔥 Le immagini che arrivano live da piazza del Gesù a Napoli. Gli ultras tedeschi stanno danneggiato diversi mezzi delle forze dell'ordine. La tensione resta altissima in attesa del calcio d'inizio.#Napoli #Sportitalia pic.twitter.com/3S9v7rosbC — Sportitalia (@tvdellosport) March 15, 2023 × It is to be noted that around 400 ticketless Eintracht Frankfurt supporters reached Naples on Tuesday (March 14) via train, from Salerno, and arrived at a hotel next to the one where their team was placed. This isn't the first time such an incident took place as the situation went out of hands during the first leg as well. Back then, fans of both teams squared off against each other, in Frankfurt, with police having labelled that game as high risk. In a statement, Frankfurt director Philipp Reschke said: "About 150 Napoli fans came and attacked ours (at Piazza del Gesu). Then it was set in motion. It ended in a relatively long confrontation with a lot of pyrotechnics. It seemed a bit like that was where the groups that were looking for each other found each other. We saw a burning police vehicle. The police themselves could not say who had started it." After winning the first leg 2-0, Napoli defeated Frankfurt 3-0 in the second leg with Victor Osimhen striking twice and one goal from Piotr Zielinski.

WATCH: UGLY SCENES! Eintracht Frankfurt fans throw chairs at police in Naples ahead of UCL tie

Manchester City will have a stern test in their hand as they take on German giants RB Leipzig at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, March 14 evening. The affair evenly poised at 1-1 will see both teams have a shot at a place in the last eight, but it is Pep Guardiola’s men who will stand with an advantage with the home crowd backing the team. In the evening’s other match, two-time champions Porto will host Inter Milan in Portugal.

<h3>Manchester City face stern test</h3>

City have at least reached the last four of the competition in previous seasons and will look to build on that success. The Champions League remains the only trophy missing from the City cabinet at the moment as they have tasted success on all fronts. While the domestic season is still in the balance for City, they will look to bring their mojo into the European competition.

The Premier League (PL) champions are currently second in the domestic league and have the firepower of Riyad Mahrez, Erling Haaland and Phil Foden. Traditionally, there is not much that separates the two sides with both teams winning one match each in three previous meetings.

RB Leipzig have lost their previous three visits to England and will look to bring their domestic form to the table. Marco Rose’s men are third in the Bundesliga standings are sit only behind Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. The German side will try to reach the last eight stage yet again with aspirations of winning the title. Their best performance in the competition came in 2020 when they exited the semifinal stage.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a></h3>

<h3>Inter travel to Porto</h3>

In the other key battle of the evening, three-time champions Inter Milan will travel to Portugal with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Their quest against Porto will not be an easy affair as the two-time champions will have the backing of the home fans. It is not since 2011, that Inter have reached the last of the Champions League and will look to return to the summit along with city rivals AC Milan, who already are in the last eight.

Manchester City will have a stern test in their hand as they take on German giants RB Leipzig at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, March 14 evening. The affair evenly poised at 1-1 will see both teams have a shot at a place in the last eight, but it is Pep Guardiola’s men who will stand with an advantage with the home crowd backing the team.

Manchester City will have a stern test in their hand as they take on German giants RB Leipzig at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, March 14 evening. The affair evenly poised at 1-1 will see both teams have a shot at a place in the last eight, but it is Pep Guardiola’s men who will stand with an advantage with the home crowd backing the team. In the evening’s other match, two-time champions Porto will host Inter Milan in Portugal. Manchester City face stern test City have at least reached the last four of the competition in previous seasons and will look to build on that success. The Champions League remains the only trophy missing from the City cabinet at the moment as they have tasted success on all fronts. While the domestic season is still in the balance for City, they will look to bring their mojo into the European competition. The Premier League (PL) champions are currently second in the domestic league and have the firepower of Riyad Mahrez, Erling Haaland and Phil Foden. Traditionally, there is not much that separates the two sides with both teams winning one match each in three previous meetings. RB Leipzig have lost their previous three visits to England and will look to bring their domestic form to the table. Marco Rose’s men are third in the Bundesliga standings are sit only behind Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. The German side will try to reach the last eight stage yet again with aspirations of winning the title. Their best performance in the competition came in 2020 when they exited the semifinal stage. ALSO READ | FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH Inter travel to Porto In the other key battle of the evening, three-time champions Inter Milan will travel to Portugal with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Their quest against Porto will not be an easy affair as the two-time champions will have the backing of the home fans. It is not since 2011, that Inter have reached the last of the Champions League and will look to return to the summit along with city rivals AC Milan, who already are in the last eight.

Champions League: Manchester City face Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig at Etihad; Porto host Inter Milan

The last nine years in European football have been taken by storm by Spanish giants Real Madrid as they have conquered the continental scene left, right and center. Masterminded by some of the greats of the game the Los Blancos have been recipients of 14 European titles, five of which have come since 2014. While European glory is no new to the team, it is their lack of domestic silverware at the domestic circuit that has surprised many with their last Copa del Rey title coming days before they started their latest golden chapter of European success.

<h3>Real’s European success</h3>

The shades of success for the latest glory days took 11 years of hunting before Iker Casillas in 2014 finally lifted the holy grail of the Champions League in 2014. Not since 2003 the Galacticos of Real conquered Europe while arch-rivals Barcelona were donning the La Liga and Champions League. A team furniture consisting of Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric took the 2014 season by storm and ended the wait for European success for the Whites of Madrid.

While 2014 may have started a period of European success, remarkably the Los Blancos have not lifted the domestic Copa del Rey. A halfway run in the 85th minute of the 2014 showdown final from Bale secured Real’s last Copa del Rey, beating Barcelona in the final. In context, it is the same period in which Arsenal won four FA Cup titles while Leicester City too have a domestic cup in their trophy cabinet having won the 2021 FA Cup.

When it comes to La Liga, Real have achieved success on three occasions since 2014 which while comparing their standards with other European giants has been way off. Since 2014, Barcelona have won four La Liga titles despite going through a period of transition and are likely to add a fifth at the end of the 2022-23 season.

English powerhouse Manchester City have won five PL titles and Bayern Munich have conquered the German Bundesliga on nine occasions. Juventus also have huge domestic success with a staggering seven titles with PSG conquering the same number of titles in their domestic French Ligue One. The afar mentioned teams have won 28 league titles between them while Bayern Munich remain the only side to have won the Champions League since 2014.

Considering, success at the domestic level Europe is supposed to be a big hard-hitting rock for many teams considering the two-legged affairs and the away-goals rule. Often big teams have been on the receiving end of the cruel away-goals rule, but Real have experimented and found the solution to overcome that drawback.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a></h3>

<h3>Core of team</h3>

In 2013 before the start of the golden modern era, Luka Modric was termed the worse signing of the season having marched his trade from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. In 2014 Bayern Munich sold Toni Kroos in favour of Thiago Alcantara and surplus to requirements as the management believed he will not last long at the highest level. However, critics have been proven wrong in both Modric and Kroos’ cases as they to the day of writing have masterminded Real’s success and carry the burden of expectations of the fans.

Termed BBC (Bale-Benzema-Cristiano), the trio became the most decorated in the modern era of football as they scored goals for fun. Both Benzema and Bale were part of a successful era that not many teams across Europe had at their disposal. While City had Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure, Real’s striking dimensions were better than that of many. It took Bayern a long time to win the Champions League with Robert Lewandowski and his star-studded teammates. So, it was just the extra bandwidth in the striking department that saw Los Blancos make the difference.

Their defense was led by the talisman Sergio Ramos and Marcelo; it was their big winning experience that made the difference. The 2014 Champions League final is a good example of when they were struggling but found a way. They later had the services of Raphael Varane and Dani Carvajal who brought a core of success that was missing in the big teams like Juventus, Bayern and Paris Saint-German.

<h3>Ancelotti, Zidane’s reign of success</h3>

A good horse with a poor jockey is not the mantra to success, but Real had the formulae for success in the form of experienced Carlo Ancelotti in 2014 and 2022. While the Italian was far and away enjoying spells with Napoli and Everton having won the Champions League, boss Florentino Pérez did not have to look far.

An ill-fated short reign of Rafael Benitez was a dark cloud, Zinedine Zidane’s tenure saw history scripted on all fronts. He led Real to three consecutive Champions League titles while also gaining the tag of becoming the first team in the modern era to win back-to-back titles in Europe’s premier competition.

While the icing is already on the cake, another success in the Champions League in the 2022-23 season will be the cherry on the top more glory awaits for the record champions.

The last nine years in European football have been taken by storm by Spanish giants Real Madrid as they have conquered the continental scene left, right and center.

The last nine years in European football have been taken by storm by Spanish giants Real Madrid as they have conquered the continental scene left, right and center. Masterminded by some of the greats of the game the Los Blancos have been recipients of 14 European titles, five of which have come since 2014. While European glory is no new to the team, it is their lack of domestic silverware at the domestic circuit that has surprised many with their last Copa del Rey title coming days before they started their latest golden chapter of European success. Real’s European success The shades of success for the latest glory days took 11 years of hunting before Iker Casillas in 2014 finally lifted the holy grail of the Champions League in 2014. Not since 2003 the Galacticos of Real conquered Europe while arch-rivals Barcelona were donning the La Liga and Champions League. A team furniture consisting of Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric took the 2014 season by storm and ended the wait for European success for the Whites of Madrid. While 2014 may have started a period of European success, remarkably the Los Blancos have not lifted the domestic Copa del Rey. A halfway run in the 85th minute of the 2014 showdown final from Bale secured Real’s last Copa del Rey, beating Barcelona in the final. In context, it is the same period in which Arsenal won four FA Cup titles while Leicester City too have a domestic cup in their trophy cabinet having won the 2021 FA Cup. When it comes to La Liga, Real have achieved success on three occasions since 2014 which while comparing their standards with other European giants has been way off. Since 2014, Barcelona have won four La Liga titles despite going through a period of transition and are likely to add a fifth at the end of the 2022-23 season. English powerhouse Manchester City have won five PL titles and Bayern Munich have conquered the German Bundesliga on nine occasions. Juventus also have huge domestic success with a staggering seven titles with PSG conquering the same number of titles in their domestic French Ligue One. The afar mentioned teams have won 28 league titles between them while Bayern Munich remain the only side to have won the Champions League since 2014. Considering, success at the domestic level Europe is supposed to be a big hard-hitting rock for many teams considering the two-legged affairs and the away-goals rule. Often big teams have been on the receiving end of the cruel away-goals rule, but Real have experimented and found the solution to overcome that drawback. ALSO READ | FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH Core of team In 2013 before the start of the golden modern era, Luka Modric was termed the worse signing of the season having marched his trade from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012. In 2014 Bayern Munich sold Toni Kroos in favour of Thiago Alcantara and surplus to requirements as the management believed he will not last long at the highest level. However, critics have been proven wrong in both Modric and Kroos’ cases as they to the day of writing have masterminded Real’s success and carry the burden of expectations of the fans. Termed BBC (Bale-Benzema-Cristiano), the trio became the most decorated in the modern era of football as they scored goals for fun. Both Benzema and Bale were part of a successful era that not many teams across Europe had at their disposal. While City had Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure, Real’s striking dimensions were better than that of many. It took Bayern a long time to win the Champions League with Robert Lewandowski and his star-studded teammates. So, it was just the extra bandwidth in the striking department that saw Los Blancos make the difference. Their defense was led by the talisman Sergio Ramos and Marcelo; it was their big winning experience that made the difference. The 2014 Champions League final is a good example of when they were struggling but found a way. They later had the services of Raphael Varane and Dani Carvajal who brought a core of success that was missing in the big teams like Juventus, Bayern and Paris Saint-German. Ancelotti, Zidane’s reign of success A good horse with a poor jockey is not the mantra to success, but Real had the formulae for success in the form of experienced Carlo Ancelotti in 2014 and 2022. While the Italian was far and away enjoying spells with Napoli and Everton having won the Champions League, boss Florentino Pérez did not have to look far. An ill-fated short reign of Rafael Benitez was a dark cloud, Zinedine Zidane’s tenure saw history scripted on all fronts. He led Real to three consecutive Champions League titles while also gaining the tag of becoming the first team in the modern era to win back-to-back titles in Europe’s premier competition. While the icing is already on the cake, another success in the Champions League in the 2022-23 season will be the cherry on the top more glory awaits for the record champions.

Explained: Why Real Madrid are the most successful European club despite domestic cup drought in recent years

Pep Guardiola and Manchester city face RB Leipzig in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16. With the tie all square heading into the deciding leg, the English Champions will hope to avoid another debacle in the competition.

Another 'judgement day' for Guardiola

Antonio Conte's dismal record in the Champions League continued as his Tottenham Hotspur side exited the competition in the last 16 after a dreary 0-0 draw at home to AC Milan on Wednesday. Tottenham never really threatened to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg and went out with a whimper and boos from the home fans whose patience is running out.

Conte returned to the technical area after missing the last four games following gallbladder surgery but was as subdued as his team on a freezing night in north London.

In six Champions League campaigns with Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Tottenham, the Italian has only managed to reach the Champions League quarter-finals once.

And with his contract up in June, Wednesday's defeat felt like the beginning of the end of an era even if his side remain in contention to finish in the Premier League top four. Whether or not Conte remains for the rest of the season is not certain, judging by his comments to Italy's Amazon Prime.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/milan-hold-off-toothless-tottenham-to-reach-champions-league-quarter-finals-570054">Milan hold off toothless Tottenham to reach Champions League quarter-finals</a>

"I continue to work; I have a contract with Tottenham. I respect the contract. At the end of the season, assessments will be made with the club in the most serene way," he said. "Let's see how the season ends. Maybe they can send me away even earlier. Perhaps the expectations were higher and may be disappointed. What matters for a coach is trying to work and raise the bar. This year we are struggling to raise the bar."

Conte tried to talk about Tottenham's last-16 exit as progress, arguing that last season they were in the Europa Conference League, but the fans are unlikely to agree.

"We played in the Europa Conference League last year and weren't able to get out of the group stages. Now we took a step forward but it is not enough and if we want to be competitive," he said. "We have to fight."

Meanwhile, Tottenham have now failed to score in their last three games, losing in the FA Cup to second-tier Sheffield United, to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League and now barely laying a glove on an average Milan side.

In his news conference later, Conte said he was sorry for the fans but that the club needed to go "step by step".

"I think the situation is very clear. I always say the same things we need time and patience. We don't have solid foundations to fight and win," Conte, who dragged Tottenham into fourth place in the Premier League last season, told reporters. "We can't make a miracle and I can understand the fans losing patience because for a long time Tottenham have not won anything," he said. "I'm really sorry for the fans but we cannot invent the win. It's important to know this.

"We have to build step by step."

Antonio Conte's dismal record in the Champions League continued as his Tottenham Hotspur side exited the competition in the last 16 after a dreary 0-0 draw at home to AC Milan on Wednesday.

Antonio Conte's dismal record in the Champions League continued as his Tottenham Hotspur side exited the competition in the last 16 after a dreary 0-0 draw at home to AC Milan on Wednesday. Tottenham never really threatened to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg and went out with a whimper and boos from the home fans whose patience is running out. Conte returned to the technical area after missing the last four games following gallbladder surgery but was as subdued as his team on a freezing night in north London. In six Champions League campaigns with Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Tottenham, the Italian has only managed to reach the Champions League quarter-finals once. And with his contract up in June, Wednesday's defeat felt like the beginning of the end of an era even if his side remain in contention to finish in the Premier League top four. Whether or not Conte remains for the rest of the season is not certain, judging by his comments to Italy's Amazon Prime. ALSO READ: Milan hold off toothless Tottenham to reach Champions League quarter-finals "I continue to work; I have a contract with Tottenham. I respect the contract. At the end of the season, assessments will be made with the club in the most serene way," he said. "Let's see how the season ends. Maybe they can send me away even earlier. Perhaps the expectations were higher and may be disappointed. What matters for a coach is trying to work and raise the bar. This year we are struggling to raise the bar." Conte tried to talk about Tottenham's last-16 exit as progress, arguing that last season they were in the Europa Conference League, but the fans are unlikely to agree. "We played in the Europa Conference League last year and weren't able to get out of the group stages. Now we took a step forward but it is not enough and if we want to be competitive," he said. "We have to fight." Meanwhile, Tottenham have now failed to score in their last three games, losing in the FA Cup to second-tier Sheffield United, to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League and now barely laying a glove on an average Milan side. In his news conference later, Conte said he was sorry for the fans but that the club needed to go "step by step". "I think the situation is very clear. I always say the same things we need time and patience. We don't have solid foundations to fight and win," Conte, who dragged Tottenham into fourth place in the Premier League last season, told reporters. "We can't make a miracle and I can understand the fans losing patience because for a long time Tottenham have not won anything," he said. "I'm really sorry for the fans but we cannot invent the win. It's important to know this. "We have to build step by step."

Champions League: Dark clouds loom over Antonio Conte's future as Spurs coach after UCL exit

AC Milan progressed to the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2012 as the Italian champions held out for a 0-0 draw at 10-man Tottenham to win 1-0 on aggregate.

A European elimination hot on the heels of an exit from the FA Cup means Tottenham's 15-year wait to win a trophy will extend for at least another season.

Antonio Conte's return to the touchline failed to inspire a response from his side as Tottenham were toothless in attack and had to play the final 12 minutes a man down as Cristian Romero was sent off for two bookable offences.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-see-off-dortmund-to-reach-champions-league-quarter-finals-569787">Chelsea see off Dortmund to reach Champions League quarter-finals</a>

Kick-off was delayed by 10 minutes after the later arrival of both sides due to traffic congestion, but it took far longer for the contest to get going.

Conte was back in charge after taking more time after the first leg to recover from gallbladder surgery.

The Italian was his usual animated self and was shown a yellow card by referee Clement Turpin for his protestations at a booking for Clement Lenglet.

However, his players lacked the same energy as Spurs failed to rise to the occasion.

Milan produced the one piece of imagination befitting of a Champions League knockout tie before the break as a well-worked free-kick found Junior Messias, but the Brazilian dragged his shot wide.

Spurs had lost four of their previous six games, including defeat to second-tier Sheffield United in the FA Cup.

The home support could not hide their frustration as the half-time whistle was met with a smattering of boos.

Conte was unable to provoke a response at the break as Spurs needed stand-in goalkeeper Fraser Forster to keep them in the tie.

Brahim Diaz scored the only goal of the first leg and his jinking run inside the Spurs box just lacked the finish as Forster's outstretched leg deflected the ball to safety.

Spurs at least forced Mike Maignan into a save 25 minutes from time as he tipped over Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's strike.

Conte gambled by switching to a front four for the final 20 minutes with Richarlison joining Harry Kane, Dejan Kulusevski and Son Heung-min up front.

But there was still precious little service for Kane and hope of a Tottenham fightback disappeared with Romero.

WATCH | UEFA blamed for security failure ahead of 2022 Champions League final

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The Argentine often treads a fine line with his discipline and saw red for the third time in his Spurs career after lunging in on Theo Hernandez.

Kane came closest to an equaliser when his header from a Son free-kick was well saved by Maignan low to his right in stoppage time.

Milan should have made sure of victory on the night as well as on aggregate but Sandro Tonali wasted another glorious chance by going for goal himself with teammates in support before Divock Origi's effort came back off the inside of the post.

But it did not matter as the seven-time European champions held firm to end more than a decade of waiting to reach the last eight.&nbsp;

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AC Milan progressed to the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2012 as the Italian champions held out for a 0-0 draw at 10-man Tottenham to win 1-0 on aggregate.

AC Milan progressed to the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time since 2012 as the Italian champions held out for a 0-0 draw at 10-man Tottenham to win 1-0 on aggregate. A European elimination hot on the heels of an exit from the FA Cup means Tottenham's 15-year wait to win a trophy will extend for at least another season. Antonio Conte's return to the touchline failed to inspire a response from his side as Tottenham were toothless in attack and had to play the final 12 minutes a man down as Cristian Romero was sent off for two bookable offences. ALSO READ | Chelsea see off Dortmund to reach Champions League quarter-finals Kick-off was delayed by 10 minutes after the later arrival of both sides due to traffic congestion, but it took far longer for the contest to get going. Conte was back in charge after taking more time after the first leg to recover from gallbladder surgery. The Italian was his usual animated self and was shown a yellow card by referee Clement Turpin for his protestations at a booking for Clement Lenglet. However, his players lacked the same energy as Spurs failed to rise to the occasion. Milan produced the one piece of imagination befitting of a Champions League knockout tie before the break as a well-worked free-kick found Junior Messias, but the Brazilian dragged his shot wide. Spurs had lost four of their previous six games, including defeat to second-tier Sheffield United in the FA Cup. The home support could not hide their frustration as the half-time whistle was met with a smattering of boos. Conte was unable to provoke a response at the break as Spurs needed stand-in goalkeeper Fraser Forster to keep them in the tie. Brahim Diaz scored the only goal of the first leg and his jinking run inside the Spurs box just lacked the finish as Forster's outstretched leg deflected the ball to safety. Spurs at least forced Mike Maignan into a save 25 minutes from time as he tipped over Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's strike. Conte gambled by switching to a front four for the final 20 minutes with Richarlison joining Harry Kane, Dejan Kulusevski and Son Heung-min up front. But there was still precious little service for Kane and hope of a Tottenham fightback disappeared with Romero. WATCH | UEFA blamed for security failure ahead of 2022 Champions League final The Argentine often treads a fine line with his discipline and saw red for the third time in his Spurs career after lunging in on Theo Hernandez. Kane came closest to an equaliser when his header from a Son free-kick was well saved by Maignan low to his right in stoppage time. Milan should have made sure of victory on the night as well as on aggregate but Sandro Tonali wasted another glorious chance by going for goal himself with teammates in support before Divock Origi's effort came back off the inside of the post. But it did not matter as the seven-time European champions held firm to end more than a decade of waiting to reach the last eight. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Milan hold off toothless Tottenham to reach Champions League quarter-finals

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London.

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All to play for! 👊 
 
Who will progress? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/H74SBO3rbI">pic.twitter.com/H74SBO3rbI</a>
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<h3>PSG hunt for a place in last eight</h3>

PSG will have a big task in their hands as they make their way to the Allianz Arena to face the record Bundesliga champions for a place in the quarterfinal. The French side lost the first leg 0-1 at home and will have to at least score once to overcome the deposit. However, the biggest drawback for them will be the absence of Neymar and Achraf Hakimi. While the Brazilian is to miss the rest of the season with an injury, Hakimi has been involved in a rape case and is undergoing a trial.

Bayern on the flip side are having some battle both domestically and in Europe as they look to consolidate their position in the second leg. Currently sitting top of the pile in the Bundesliga on goal difference, they will be aware of the fact that the Champions League tie is far from over. A draw will see them book their berth in the last eight while even a defeat could see them make the next stage.

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-rohit-sharma-aims-to-emulate-sunil-gavaskars-elite-feat-in-test-series-finale-in-ahmedabad-569904">IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad</a></h3>

<h3>Tottenham host AC Milan</h3>

In the other clash of the night, Spurs will play host to AC Milan at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having trailed 0-1 from the first leg. Manager Antonio Conte is expected to be back for the return leg in London having been away from the side due to health issues. Both the teams lost their weekend matches as Spurs were dismantled 0-1 by Wolves while Milan lost 1-2 against Fiorentina.

A win by a two-goal margin will see the London side make the final eight while a draw should be good enough for the Italian side to book their passage in the latter stage.

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London.

With two places in the Champions League quarterfinal up for grabs, Wednesday (March 8) evening will have two mouth-watering contests on offer. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will have to come from behind against Bayern Munich as they try to book a last-eight berth while the same goes for Tottenham Hotspur, as they host AC Milan in another crunch affair in London. All to play for! 👊 Who will progress? #UCL pic.twitter.com/H74SBO3rbI — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 8, 2023 × PSG hunt for a place in last eight PSG will have a big task in their hands as they make their way to the Allianz Arena to face the record Bundesliga champions for a place in the quarterfinal. The French side lost the first leg 0-1 at home and will have to at least score once to overcome the deposit. However, the biggest drawback for them will be the absence of Neymar and Achraf Hakimi. While the Brazilian is to miss the rest of the season with an injury, Hakimi has been involved in a rape case and is undergoing a trial. Bayern on the flip side are having some battle both domestically and in Europe as they look to consolidate their position in the second leg. Currently sitting top of the pile in the Bundesliga on goal difference, they will be aware of the fact that the Champions League tie is far from over. A draw will see them book their berth in the last eight while even a defeat could see them make the next stage. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma aims to emulate Sunil Gavaskar's elite feat in Test series finale in Ahmedabad Tottenham host AC Milan In the other clash of the night, Spurs will play host to AC Milan at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having trailed 0-1 from the first leg. Manager Antonio Conte is expected to be back for the return leg in London having been away from the side due to health issues. Both the teams lost their weekend matches as Spurs were dismantled 0-1 by Wolves while Milan lost 1-2 against Fiorentina. A win by a two-goal margin will see the London side make the final eight while a draw should be good enough for the Italian side to book their passage in the latter stage.

Champions League: Wounded PSG face Bayern in Germany; Spurs host AC Milan in crunch second leg

Goncalo Ramos struck twice to help Benfica romp to a 5-1 Champions League last 16, second leg win over Club Brugge on Tuesday in Lisbon and a 7-1 aggregate victory.

Ramos, who shot to global fame during the World Cup when he was selected ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal and netted a hat-trick against Switzerland, set up the opener for Rafa Silva.

The 21-year-old forward then produced two clinical finishes either side of half-time to ensure the two-time European Cup winners would reach the quarter-finals in consecutive seasons.

Joao Mario struck from the spot to score in his fifth consecutive Champions League match -- Portugal great Eusebio was the last player to manage the feat for the club.

David Neres added the fifth for Benfica before Bjorn Meijer netted a spectacular late consolation.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-graham-potters-chelsea-face-stern-dortmund-challenge-benfica-eye-quarterfinal-berth-569627">Champions League: Graham Potter's Chelsea face stern Dortmund challenge; Benfica eye quarterfinal berth</a>

Roger Schmidt's ruthless side finished top of a group containing heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, and made light work of Scott Parker's knock-out stage novices.

Benfica have only been beaten twice all season across all competitions and dominated from the outset against the Belgian visitors.

Chiquinho, who has taken Enzo Fernandez's place in midfield after his Premier League record transfer move to Chelsea in January, returned from injury for the hosts.

Parker picked Ukrainian striker Roman Yaremchuk against his former side, pairing him with Noa Lang to try and spring an unlikely comeback.

Joao Mario, in sparking goalscoring form this season from midfield, netted after just two minutes with a glorious, flicked finish, but the goal was ruled out for an offside in the build-up.

The Portugal midfielder was then foiled by Meijer, who hacked his goal-bound effort off the line.

Eventually the hosts took the lead at the Estadio da Luz through Silva after 38 minutes, picked out well in the box by Ramos.

Silva showed good close control to dig out some space and a deft finish to beat former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

Ramos steered home the second just before the break after being teed up by Joao Mario.

He netted a brace on Friday against Famalicao to help the Portuguese league leaders maintain an eight-point advantage and was decisive in the box yet again.

Ruthless romp&nbsp;

Ramos surged inside from the left before firing back across himself into the bottom corner, leaving Mignolet with no chance, notching his 22nd goal of the season across all competitions.

Close behind him on 20 is Joao Mario, enjoying the best goalscoring season of his career by a distance.

The 30-year-old midfielder slashed a volley narrowly off target early in the second half.

Brugge, who have now won just two of their last 17 games, were a surprise package in the group phase and helped eliminate Atletico Madrid, but were picked apart by the Eagles.

Ramos netted his second before the hour mark with a clinical first-time finish from Alex Grimaldo's low cross.

Then Joao Mario's coolly taken penalty added sheen to the scoreline after Abakar Sylla clumsily fouled Gilberto.

WATCH | WION Sports: UEFA Champions League 2022/23 season preview

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It was the midfielder's sixth goal of the tournament, pulling him level with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior as the third top scorer, although five have come from the spot.

Neres slotted home the fifth on a bruising night for Parker and his team, who pulled one back through Meijer, as Benfica proved they will be no pushovers in the next round.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Goncalo Ramos struck twice to help Benfica romp to a 5-1 Champions League last 16, second leg win over Club Brugge on Tuesday in Lisbon and a 7-1 aggregate victory.

Goncalo Ramos struck twice to help Benfica romp to a 5-1 Champions League last 16, second leg win over Club Brugge on Tuesday in Lisbon and a 7-1 aggregate victory. Ramos, who shot to global fame during the World Cup when he was selected ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo for Portugal and netted a hat-trick against Switzerland, set up the opener for Rafa Silva. The 21-year-old forward then produced two clinical finishes either side of half-time to ensure the two-time European Cup winners would reach the quarter-finals in consecutive seasons. Joao Mario struck from the spot to score in his fifth consecutive Champions League match -- Portugal great Eusebio was the last player to manage the feat for the club. David Neres added the fifth for Benfica before Bjorn Meijer netted a spectacular late consolation. ALSO READ | Champions League: Graham Potter's Chelsea face stern Dortmund challenge; Benfica eye quarterfinal berth Roger Schmidt's ruthless side finished top of a group containing heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, and made light work of Scott Parker's knock-out stage novices. Benfica have only been beaten twice all season across all competitions and dominated from the outset against the Belgian visitors. Chiquinho, who has taken Enzo Fernandez's place in midfield after his Premier League record transfer move to Chelsea in January, returned from injury for the hosts. Parker picked Ukrainian striker Roman Yaremchuk against his former side, pairing him with Noa Lang to try and spring an unlikely comeback. Joao Mario, in sparking goalscoring form this season from midfield, netted after just two minutes with a glorious, flicked finish, but the goal was ruled out for an offside in the build-up. The Portugal midfielder was then foiled by Meijer, who hacked his goal-bound effort off the line. Eventually the hosts took the lead at the Estadio da Luz through Silva after 38 minutes, picked out well in the box by Ramos. Silva showed good close control to dig out some space and a deft finish to beat former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. Ramos steered home the second just before the break after being teed up by Joao Mario. He netted a brace on Friday against Famalicao to help the Portuguese league leaders maintain an eight-point advantage and was decisive in the box yet again. Ruthless romp Ramos surged inside from the left before firing back across himself into the bottom corner, leaving Mignolet with no chance, notching his 22nd goal of the season across all competitions. Close behind him on 20 is Joao Mario, enjoying the best goalscoring season of his career by a distance. The 30-year-old midfielder slashed a volley narrowly off target early in the second half. Brugge, who have now won just two of their last 17 games, were a surprise package in the group phase and helped eliminate Atletico Madrid, but were picked apart by the Eagles. Ramos netted his second before the hour mark with a clinical first-time finish from Alex Grimaldo's low cross. Then Joao Mario's coolly taken penalty added sheen to the scoreline after Abakar Sylla clumsily fouled Gilberto. WATCH | WION Sports: UEFA Champions League 2022/23 season preview It was the midfielder's sixth goal of the tournament, pulling him level with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior as the third top scorer, although five have come from the spot. Neres slotted home the fifth on a bruising night for Parker and his team, who pulled one back through Meijer, as Benfica proved they will be no pushovers in the next round. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Benfica reach Champions League quarters by thrashing Brugge

UEFA will refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's Champions League final in Paris, Europe's soccer governing body said on Tuesday (March 7) after an independent report said they were responsible for the chaos outside the stadium.

The final was delayed by 36 minutes after thousands of Liverpool supporters were unable to get into the Stade de France for the match on May 28, which Real Madrid won 1-0.

French police were filmed using tear gas on fans, including women and children. Although UEFA initially blamed the Merseyside club's fans for the mayhem, the governing body later apologised following the release of an independent review.

"We have taken into account a huge number of views expressed both publicly and privately and we believe we have devised a scheme that is comprehensive and fair," UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis said in statement.

"We value the input from the Liverpool FC supporter organisations Spirit of Shankly (SOS) and Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association (LDSA) as well as the open and transparent dialogue throughout this period.

"We recognise the negative experiences of those supporters on the day and with this scheme we will refund fans who had bought tickets and who were the most affected by the difficulties in accessing the stadium."

UEFA said refunds would be available to all fans with tickets for gates A, B, C, X, Y and Z which was where "the most difficult circumstances were reported". Liverpool fans had 19,618 tickets allocated for the final.

The two fan groups, SOS and LDSA, welcomed the announcement with a joint statement but said it does not let UEFA off the hook.

"With a promise to reimburse supporters, UEFA have gone some way to acknowledge their part in the fiasco," they said.

<h3>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-pm-modi-to-attend-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-with-australian-pm-anthony-albanese-569592">IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese</a></h3>

"But it does not excuse UEFA, exempt them from criticism or lessen the need for them to implement all of the recommendations made by the independent inquiry."

Tickets for the final cost between 62 pounds ($74) to 610 pounds ($733).

"In addition, all fans who according to the access control data did not enter the stadium before 21:00 CET (the originally scheduled kick-off time) or who were not able to enter the stadium at all, will be eligible for a refund," UEFA added.

"Due to the nature of the original ticket sales process, whereby Liverpool fans purchased tickets from Liverpool FC and not directly from UEFA, UEFA has requested that the club implements the refunds to ensure personal data protection and for ease of process."

UEFA said Real Madrid fans and neutral supporters who meet the refund criteria will be processed via their customer service.

UEFA will refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's Champions League final in Paris, Europe's soccer governing body said on Tuesday (March 7) after an independent report said they were responsible for the chaos outside the stadium.

UEFA will refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's Champions League final in Paris, Europe's soccer governing body said on Tuesday (March 7) after an independent report said they were responsible for the chaos outside the stadium. The final was delayed by 36 minutes after thousands of Liverpool supporters were unable to get into the Stade de France for the match on May 28, which Real Madrid won 1-0. French police were filmed using tear gas on fans, including women and children. Although UEFA initially blamed the Merseyside club's fans for the mayhem, the governing body later apologised following the release of an independent review. "We have taken into account a huge number of views expressed both publicly and privately and we believe we have devised a scheme that is comprehensive and fair," UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis said in statement. "We value the input from the Liverpool FC supporter organisations Spirit of Shankly (SOS) and Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association (LDSA) as well as the open and transparent dialogue throughout this period. "We recognise the negative experiences of those supporters on the day and with this scheme we will refund fans who had bought tickets and who were the most affected by the difficulties in accessing the stadium." UEFA said refunds would be available to all fans with tickets for gates A, B, C, X, Y and Z which was where "the most difficult circumstances were reported". Liverpool fans had 19,618 tickets allocated for the final. The two fan groups, SOS and LDSA, welcomed the announcement with a joint statement but said it does not let UEFA off the hook. "With a promise to reimburse supporters, UEFA have gone some way to acknowledge their part in the fiasco," they said. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese "But it does not excuse UEFA, exempt them from criticism or lessen the need for them to implement all of the recommendations made by the independent inquiry." Tickets for the final cost between 62 pounds ($74) to 610 pounds ($733). "In addition, all fans who according to the access control data did not enter the stadium before 21:00 CET (the originally scheduled kick-off time) or who were not able to enter the stadium at all, will be eligible for a refund," UEFA added. "Due to the nature of the original ticket sales process, whereby Liverpool fans purchased tickets from Liverpool FC and not directly from UEFA, UEFA has requested that the club implements the refunds to ensure personal data protection and for ease of process." UEFA said Real Madrid fans and neutral supporters who meet the refund criteria will be processed via their customer service.

UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for 2022 Champions League final chaos in Paris

The Champions League (CL) Round of 16 second legs will have an entertaining contest on hands on Tuesday (March 7) evening as Chelsea take on Borussia Dortmund at Stamford Bridge. Graham Potter, already under pressure for lack of results as Chelsea manager will have a decisive evening as his side tries to come from 0-1 down. In the other contest of the evening, Club Brugge will make a trip to Lisbon to take on Benfica as they too try to come from 0-2 down and advance.

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Which players will we be talking about at full time? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/nFUmVzDSbB">pic.twitter.com/nFUmVzDSbB</a>
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<h3>Decisive night for Potter?</h3>

Even before the ball has been kicked in the contest, Graham Potter will know that the night could bring curtains on his brief spell as Chelsea manager. The Blues are unlikely to make Europe next season as their best possible route to silverware this season is winning the Champions League. Unlike Roberto Di Matteo and Thomas Tuchel, Potter has failed to revive the hopes of his side as his aforementioned predecessors have gone on to win the competition.

Chelsea will need the backing of the home crowd as they try to come from behind having trailed 0-1 from the affair in Germany in February. The solitary goal from Karim Adeyemi in the second half of the German leg saw the London side return with empty hands despite playing some of the best football in the Potter era.

Much to the worry of the team, the team is unlikely to risk Cesar Azpilicueta from the start while Thiago Silva is also out due to a knee injury he suffered against Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday. The West London side will come into the contest with a winning momentum having beaten Leeds United 1-0 over the weekend.

<h3>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-pm-modi-to-attend-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-with-australian-pm-anthony-albanese-569592">IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese</a></h3>

<h3>Dortmund’s incredible form</h3>

On the horizon, the German side are enjoying a different spell and are going head-to-head for the Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich. Dortmund’s win over Leipzig on Friday saw them take the top spot temporarily before Bayern reclaimed the summit after their 2-1 win over Stuttgart.

The evening’s other clash will see Benfica in action as they take on Club Brugge in Lisbon. The Portugal side carries a 2-0 advantage from the first leg and will look to consolidate and secure a place in the last eight.

The Champions League (CL) Round of 16 second legs will have an entertaining contest on hands on Tuesday (March 7) evening as Chelsea take on Borussia Dortmund at Stamford Bridge.

The Champions League (CL) Round of 16 second legs will have an entertaining contest on hands on Tuesday (March 7) evening as Chelsea take on Borussia Dortmund at Stamford Bridge. Graham Potter, already under pressure for lack of results as Chelsea manager will have a decisive evening as his side tries to come from 0-1 down. In the other contest of the evening, Club Brugge will make a trip to Lisbon to take on Benfica as they too try to come from 0-2 down and advance. Which players will we be talking about at full time? 🤔#UCL pic.twitter.com/nFUmVzDSbB — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 7, 2023 × Decisive night for Potter? Even before the ball has been kicked in the contest, Graham Potter will know that the night could bring curtains on his brief spell as Chelsea manager. The Blues are unlikely to make Europe next season as their best possible route to silverware this season is winning the Champions League. Unlike Roberto Di Matteo and Thomas Tuchel, Potter has failed to revive the hopes of his side as his aforementioned predecessors have gone on to win the competition. Chelsea will need the backing of the home crowd as they try to come from behind having trailed 0-1 from the affair in Germany in February. The solitary goal from Karim Adeyemi in the second half of the German leg saw the London side return with empty hands despite playing some of the best football in the Potter era. Much to the worry of the team, the team is unlikely to risk Cesar Azpilicueta from the start while Thiago Silva is also out due to a knee injury he suffered against Tottenham Hotspur last Sunday. The West London side will come into the contest with a winning momentum having beaten Leeds United 1-0 over the weekend. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th Test: PM Modi to attend Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test with Australian PM Anthony Albanese Dortmund’s incredible form On the horizon, the German side are enjoying a different spell and are going head-to-head for the Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich. Dortmund’s win over Leipzig on Friday saw them take the top spot temporarily before Bayern reclaimed the summit after their 2-1 win over Stuttgart. The evening’s other clash will see Benfica in action as they take on Club Brugge in Lisbon. The Portugal side carries a 2-0 advantage from the first leg and will look to consolidate and secure a place in the last eight.

Champions League: Graham Potter's Chelsea face stern Dortmund challenge; Benfica eye quarterfinal berth

UEFA will refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's Champions League final in Paris, Europe's football governing body said on Tuesday. This after an independent report said they were responsible for the chaos outside the stadium.

UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos

Former Chelsea player Timo Werner has slammed ex-boss Thomas Tuchel for forgetting his achievements and putting a striker like Lukaku in front of him when he was in form.&nbsp;

“When you come from the kind of success I had in Germany or with Chelsea — playing nearly every game in the first season, winning the Champions League in 2021, scoring in the semi-final against Real Madrid, making a lot of goals," Werner told The Sun.&nbsp;

“Then all this gets a little bit forgotten by the manager, it was not really fair. That was also a reason I had to move back to Leipzig, to get the enjoyment again," added Werner.&nbsp;

Werner, who now plies his trade for Bundesliga club&nbsp;RB Leipzig said parachuting a player like Lukaku in front of him in the attack was one of the toughest moments of his Chelsea career.&nbsp;

"The biggest problem was he put a striker like Lukaku in front of me in the second season after I won the Champions League by nearly playing every game in the first squad."

“That was the toughest moment for me to get a player, a very good player, in front of me for 120 million euros. Romelu was a big striker and had to play after costing so much and I didn’t feel honoured enough."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thomas-tuchel-was-left-totally-shocked-pleaded-not-to-be-sacked-in-brutal-phone-call-with-chelsea-owners-513841">Read more:&nbsp;Thomas Tuchel was left 'totally shocked', pleaded not to be sacked in brutal phone call with Chelsea owners</a>

Werner admitted it was normal that managers liked some players more than others and that he had to 'accept' the fact.&nbsp;

<h2>Werner's high-profile move to Chelsea</h2>

The 26-year-old made his high-profile move to Chelsea in 2020 for a reported fee of $56 million after tearing up the Bundesliga, scoring 34 times while assisting on 15 occasions, playing 45 matches.&nbsp;

Werner opted to play at Stamford Bridge despite interest from Bayern Munich, Liverpool and several other clubs. However, his stint for the London club did not go as planned. Werner found the back of the net only 10 times in 56 league appearances.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-sign-rb-leipzigs-timo-werner-all-you-need-to-know-about-german-forward-306784">Read more:&nbsp;Chelsea sign RB Leipzig's Timo Werner: All you need to know about German forward</a>

Werner could not adjust to the demands of the league and often received flak from fans and pundits alike for his sloppy finishing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Chelsea player Timo Werner has slammed ex-boss Thomas Tuchel for forgetting his achievements and putting a striker like Lukaku in front of him when he was in form.

Former Chelsea player Timo Werner has slammed ex-boss Thomas Tuchel for forgetting his achievements and putting a striker like Lukaku in front of him when he was in form. “When you come from the kind of success I had in Germany or with Chelsea — playing nearly every game in the first season, winning the Champions League in 2021, scoring in the semi-final against Real Madrid, making a lot of goals," Werner told The Sun. “Then all this gets a little bit forgotten by the manager, it was not really fair. That was also a reason I had to move back to Leipzig, to get the enjoyment again," added Werner. Werner, who now plies his trade for Bundesliga club RB Leipzig said parachuting a player like Lukaku in front of him in the attack was one of the toughest moments of his Chelsea career. "The biggest problem was he put a striker like Lukaku in front of me in the second season after I won the Champions League by nearly playing every game in the first squad." “That was the toughest moment for me to get a player, a very good player, in front of me for 120 million euros. Romelu was a big striker and had to play after costing so much and I didn’t feel honoured enough." Read more: Thomas Tuchel was left 'totally shocked', pleaded not to be sacked in brutal phone call with Chelsea owners Werner admitted it was normal that managers liked some players more than others and that he had to 'accept' the fact. Werner's high-profile move to Chelsea The 26-year-old made his high-profile move to Chelsea in 2020 for a reported fee of $56 million after tearing up the Bundesliga, scoring 34 times while assisting on 15 occasions, playing 45 matches. Werner opted to play at Stamford Bridge despite interest from Bayern Munich, Liverpool and several other clubs. However, his stint for the London club did not go as planned. Werner found the back of the net only 10 times in 56 league appearances. Read more: Chelsea sign RB Leipzig's Timo Werner: All you need to know about German forward Werner could not adjust to the demands of the league and often received flak from fans and pundits alike for his sloppy finishing. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Timo Werner slams ex-boss Thomas Tuchel for playing Lukaku in front of him

UEFA Champions League 2023 live streaming: The UEFA champions league is back after a long FIFA World Cup break that lasted from November last year to February 14.

UEFA Champions League 2023 live streaming: The UEFA champions league is back after a long FIFA World Cup break that lasted from November last year to February 14. The round of 16 stage will be played in two legs, with the first leg starting from February 14 and ending on February 22 and the second leg running from March 7 to March 15. The round of 16 stage kick-starts on Tuesday, February 14 with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) all set to lock horns with Bayern Munich and AC Milan squaring off with Tottenham Hotspur. The games look promising to provide you with a thrilling experience as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and the rest of the Paris Saint-Germain squad will be seen in live action following a long hiatus. However, American soccer fans are likely aware of the complications involved in finding a platform to watch Champions League matches live. This year, we've included a comprehensive guide on how to watch the Champions League matches online, including a few choices that enable you stream Champions League matches for free. How to watch UEFA champions league matches live? PSG vs Bayern Munich live streaming: It must be noted that all UEFA champions league matches won’t be shown on TV. You can watch some matches on CBS (for English commentary) or TUDN and UniMás (for Spanish commentary) if you have a cable or satellite package. To access the live streaming of all UEFA champions league matches, you can use the live stream service Paramount+. The streaming service Paramount+ from CBS is the greatest spot to watch the Champions League online this season and the only option to view every single game. For access to live Champions League games, you must purchase the streamer's Premium package. Using a live TV streaming service like fuboTV is another way to watch Champions League matches online. Even though you won't be able to watch every game, your fuboTV membership will allow you to live stream any matches that are broadcast on CBS, TUDN, and UniMás. Another reliable option for watching Champions League live streams online is DirecTV Stream, which has more than 100 channels and includes CBS, TUDN, and UniMás. You won't be able to watch every match online—(only Paramount+ provides that offer)—but you can still view a sizable chunk of the tournament's events. UEFA champions league full schedule and timings (ET) Tuesday, Feb. 14 Paris Saint-Germain vs. Bayern Munich at 3:00 PM ET AC Milan vs. Tottenham Hotspur at 3:00 PM ET Wednesday, Feb. 15 Borussia Dortmund vs. Chelsea at 3:00 PM ET Club Brugge vs. Benfica at 3:00 PM ET Tuesday, Feb. 21 Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Napoli at 3:00 PM ET Wednesday, February 22 RB Leipzig vs. Manchester City at 3:00 PM ET Inter Milan vs. FC Porto at 3:00 PM ET When will UEFA Champions League matches begin? UEFA Champions League round of 16 matches start Tuesday, February 14. What time will UEFA Champions League matches be played? UEFA Champions League matches will be played at 3:00 PM ET. Where will UEFA Champions League matches be live streamed? UEFA Champions League matches will be live streamed on Paramount+. When will PSG vs Bayern Munich match be played? PSG vs Bayern Munich round of 16 match will be played on Tuesday, February 14 at 3:00 PM ET.

UEFA Champions League 2023 live streaming: how to watch champions league livestream in US, date, time, venue

The UEFA-appointed panel of investigators blamed European Football's governing body mostly responsible for chaotic security failures at the 2022 Champions League final in Paris that put the lives of Liverpool and Real Madrid fans at risk.

UEFA blamed for security failure ahead of 2022 Champions League final

Kylian Mbappe faces three weeks out with a thigh injury and will miss the first leg of Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich on February 14, his club announced Thursday.

The France star was hurt during the first half of Wednesday's 3-1 win at Montpellier in Ligue 1 having earlier had two penalties saved.

PSG coach Christophe Galtier had initially suggested Mbappe had suffered a knock to the back of the knee rather than a muscle injury, but tests have since confirmed the true extent of the problem.

"After undergoing tests, Kylian Mbappe suffered an injury to the left thigh at the level of the femoral biceps," said a club statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-scores-kylian-mbappe-misses-penalty-comes-off-injured-in-psg-win-558128">Read more:&nbsp;Lionel Messi scores, Kylian Mbappe misses penalty, comes off injured in PSG win</a>

If he misses three weeks as expected, Mbappe can also expect to sit out next midweek's French Cup last-16 tie against Marseille and faces a race against time to return for a potentially pivotal Ligue 1 game away to the same opponents at the end of this month.

However, PSG will hope that Mbappe, who has scored 25 goals in 26 appearances for his club this season, will be fit for the second leg against Bayern in Germany on March 8.

The news is a bitter blow for the French giants, who are desperate to avoid a repeat of what happened last season when they were knocked out of the Champions League in the last 16 by Real Madrid.

The Qatar-owned club have become used to injury crises involving their star players ahead of key Champions League games in recent years.

A fractured metatarsal prevented Neymar from playing a full part in a last-16 defeat to Madrid in 2018 and a similar problem ruled him out of their loss to Manchester United at the same stage a year later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-death-of-possession-football-542811">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The death of possession football?</a>

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PSG are hoping to win European club football's most prestigious competition for the first time after over a decade of trying since the Qatari takeover of 2011.

They have been eliminated in the last 16 in four of the last six seasons, although they reached the final in 2020, losing to Bayern in Lisbon, and were beaten semi-finalists a year later.

PSG convinced Mbappe to stay at the club last year and sign a new contract despite interest in him from Real as they hoped he would lead them to glory in Europe.

Mbappe's injury comes just over a month after he starred at the World Cup in Qatar, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with eight goals including a hat-trick in the final, which France lost on penalties to Argentina.

The timing is even more of a blow for PSG after they endured a frustrating end to the January transfer window on Tuesday when they failed to process the paperwork to complete the loan signing of Hakim Ziyech from Chelsea.

The Moroccan winger had already passed a medical and was set to add an extra option in attack for Galtier after the departure of another forward, Pablo Sarabia, to Wolverhampton Wanderers.&nbsp;

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Kylian Mbappe faces three weeks out with a thigh injury and will miss the first leg of Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich on February 14, his club announced Thursday.

Kylian Mbappe faces three weeks out with a thigh injury and will miss the first leg of Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League last-16 tie against Bayern Munich on February 14, his club announced Thursday. The France star was hurt during the first half of Wednesday's 3-1 win at Montpellier in Ligue 1 having earlier had two penalties saved. PSG coach Christophe Galtier had initially suggested Mbappe had suffered a knock to the back of the knee rather than a muscle injury, but tests have since confirmed the true extent of the problem. "After undergoing tests, Kylian Mbappe suffered an injury to the left thigh at the level of the femoral biceps," said a club statement. Read more: Lionel Messi scores, Kylian Mbappe misses penalty, comes off injured in PSG win If he misses three weeks as expected, Mbappe can also expect to sit out next midweek's French Cup last-16 tie against Marseille and faces a race against time to return for a potentially pivotal Ligue 1 game away to the same opponents at the end of this month. However, PSG will hope that Mbappe, who has scored 25 goals in 26 appearances for his club this season, will be fit for the second leg against Bayern in Germany on March 8. The news is a bitter blow for the French giants, who are desperate to avoid a repeat of what happened last season when they were knocked out of the Champions League in the last 16 by Real Madrid. The Qatar-owned club have become used to injury crises involving their star players ahead of key Champions League games in recent years. A fractured metatarsal prevented Neymar from playing a full part in a last-16 defeat to Madrid in 2018 and a similar problem ruled him out of their loss to Manchester United at the same stage a year later. WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × PSG are hoping to win European club football's most prestigious competition for the first time after over a decade of trying since the Qatari takeover of 2011. They have been eliminated in the last 16 in four of the last six seasons, although they reached the final in 2020, losing to Bayern in Lisbon, and were beaten semi-finalists a year later. PSG convinced Mbappe to stay at the club last year and sign a new contract despite interest in him from Real as they hoped he would lead them to glory in Europe. Mbappe's injury comes just over a month after he starred at the World Cup in Qatar, finishing as the tournament's top scorer with eight goals including a hat-trick in the final, which France lost on penalties to Argentina. The timing is even more of a blow for PSG after they endured a frustrating end to the January transfer window on Tuesday when they failed to process the paperwork to complete the loan signing of Hakim Ziyech from Chelsea. The Moroccan winger had already passed a medical and was set to add an extra option in attack for Galtier after the departure of another forward, Pablo Sarabia, to Wolverhampton Wanderers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PSG star Kylian Mbappe ruled out of UCL tie against Bayern Munich

The Round of 16 draw for the ongoing Champions League 2022-23 season concluded on Monday (November 07) with a host of mouth-watering clashes lined up for fans. Defending champions Real Madrid will take on Liverpool while Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have been drawn against Bayern Munich.

Liverpool have not enjoyed the best of form this season but Jurgen Klopp's men remain a dangerous prospect to face for any team in the Champions League knockout stages. The Reds will also have revenge on their mind having lost the 2018 final against the La Liga giants.

Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have been handed a relatively comfortable draw as they will be facing Bundesliga side, RB Leipzig, in the Last 16. Antonio Conte's Tottenham Hotspur will be up against AC Milan while Chelse will take on Borussia Dortmund in the Last 16.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-felt-liberatedbarcelona-defender-gerard-pique-on-decision-to-retire-from-football-531606">&nbsp;'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football</a>

PSG have been handed a tough test against Bayern Munich, who have not been at their best so far this season but can beat any team on their day. Inter Milan will be up against FC Porto while Napoli will take on German side Eintracht Frankfurt.

Here is the complete Champions League last 16 draw:

RB Leipzig v Manchester City

Club Brugge v Benfica

&nbsp;Liverpool v Real Madrid

&nbsp;AC Milan v Tottenham Hotspur

&nbsp;Frankfurt v Napoli

&nbsp;Dortmund v Chelsea

&nbsp;Inter Milan v Porto

&nbsp;PSG v Bayern Munich

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-back-on-top-with-impressive-win-as-chelsea-crash-again-531689">Premier League: Arsenal back on top with impressive win as Chelsea crash again</a>

It will be a repeat of 2018 final when Liverpool lock horns with holders Real Madrid. While Madrid have had a fantastic start to the season, Liverpool have struggled for consistency in the Premier League but the epic clash promises to be a cracking affair.

The first leg of the Round of 16 clashes will kick off on February 14 before the second leg starts on March 07. The final will be played in Istanbul on June 10.

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&nbsp;

The Round of 16 draw for the ongoing Champions League 2022-23 season concluded on Monday (November 07) with a host of mouth-watering clashes lined up for fans. Defending champions Real Madrid will take on Liverpool while Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have been drawn against Bayern Munich.

The Round of 16 draw for the ongoing Champions League 2022-23 season concluded on Monday (November 07) with a host of mouth-watering clashes lined up for fans. Defending champions Real Madrid will take on Liverpool while Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have been drawn against Bayern Munich. Liverpool have not enjoyed the best of form this season but Jurgen Klopp's men remain a dangerous prospect to face for any team in the Champions League knockout stages. The Reds will also have revenge on their mind having lost the 2018 final against the La Liga giants. Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have been handed a relatively comfortable draw as they will be facing Bundesliga side, RB Leipzig, in the Last 16. Antonio Conte's Tottenham Hotspur will be up against AC Milan while Chelse will take on Borussia Dortmund in the Last 16. Also Read: 'I felt liberated': Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on decision to retire from football PSG have been handed a tough test against Bayern Munich, who have not been at their best so far this season but can beat any team on their day. Inter Milan will be up against FC Porto while Napoli will take on German side Eintracht Frankfurt. Here is the complete Champions League last 16 draw: RB Leipzig v Manchester City Club Brugge v Benfica Liverpool v Real Madrid AC Milan v Tottenham Hotspur Frankfurt v Napoli Dortmund v Chelsea Inter Milan v Porto PSG v Bayern Munich Also Read: Premier League: Arsenal back on top with impressive win as Chelsea crash again It will be a repeat of 2018 final when Liverpool lock horns with holders Real Madrid. While Madrid have had a fantastic start to the season, Liverpool have struggled for consistency in the Premier League but the epic clash promises to be a cracking affair. The first leg of the Round of 16 clashes will kick off on February 14 before the second leg starts on March 07. The final will be played in Istanbul on June 10. ×

Champions League last 16 complete fixtures: Liverpool to face Real Madrid, PSG up against Bayern Munich

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg scored a 95th-minute winner as Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to beat Marseille 2-1 and reach the Champions League knockout stage on Tuesday, where they were joined by Eintracht Frankfurt after their victory at Sporting Lisbon.

Liverpool ended Napoli's unbeaten start to the season with a 2-0 success at Anfield, but the Italian club did enough to finish top of Group A. Atletico Madrid crashed out of Europe altogether with a loss to Porto, while Bayern Munich made it six wins from six matches by beating Inter Milan.

At a raucous Velodrome, Tottenham knew they would progress if they could avoid defeat by Marseille, although manager Antonio Conte had to watch from the stands after being red-carded in last week's dramatic draw with Sporting.

Spurs were camped inside their own half for the majority of the first period and fell behind just before the break when Chancel Mbemba headed in Jordan Veretout's cross after a quickly-taken corner.

The Premier League side were much improved after the restart and Clement Lenglet glanced in a 54th-minute equaliser.

Former Arsenal left-back Sead Kolasinac nodded a glorious late opportunity to send Marseille through wide. He was made to pay as Hojbjerg struck on the counter as Spurs snatched top spot in the group and denied Marseille the consolation of a Europa League place.

"I just spoke with Antonio. He's tired because to watch from the crowd is not normal," Tottenham assistant coach Cristian Stellini told BT Sport. "He wasted a lot of energy."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/frances-paul-pogba-to-miss-world-cup-after-failing-to-recover-from-surgery-530136">France's Paul Pogba to miss World Cup after failing to recover from surgery</a>

That Hojbjerg goal pushed Eintracht, who also won 2-1, down into second in Group D and kept Sporting in European competition. Like Tottenham, Sporting only needed a point to qualify and they forged ahead six minutes before half-time as Arthur Gomes volleyed home at the back post.

But Frankfurt, playing in the competition for the first time since losing the 1960 European Cup final to Real Madrid, did not give up and Daichi Kamada scored a 62nd-minute penalty awarded for handball.

Randal Kolo Muani provided the winning moment, latching onto Ansgar Knauff's hooked pass and hammering the ball into the far corner. The players celebrated wildly on the pitch after the Europa League holders' latest European exploit, with Sporting coach Ruben Amorim left looking stunned on the touchline.

"We didn't start well at the beginning of the game," said Frankfurt midfielder Sebastian Rode.

"But we are a comeback team, we gave everything in the second half and deservedly make the next round."

Liverpool brought an end to Napoli's 21-game unbeaten run but could not win by four goals to take first place. Both teams were already assured of a knockout-phase berth.

Liverpool put Saturday's surprise Premier League home loss to Leeds behind them, as late goals from Mohamed Salah, scoring in a fifth straight Champions League game, and Darwin Nunez gained a measure of revenge for the 4-1 loss in Naples in September.

"I would have really enjoyed the game even without the goals," Reds manager Jurgen Klopp said.

"We showed tonight a reaction. Being compact makes all the difference."

Ajax saw off Rangers 3-1 at Ibrox to inflict a sixth straight defeat in Group A on the Scottish giants.

Earlier, Atletico failed to finish third in Group B and drop into the Europa League as a 2-1 loss at Porto saw Bayer Leverkusen take third thanks to their goalless draw at Club Brugge.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unpaid-wages-top-complaint-of-migrant-workers-in-qatar-says-un-labour-agency-530163">Unpaid wages top complaint of migrant workers in Qatar, says UN labour agency</a>

Atletico, the 2014 and 2016 runners-up, were beaten by early goals from Mehdi Taremi and Stephen Eustaquio despite Ivan Marcano's stoppage-time own goal.

Bayern finished with a 100-percent record by seeing off Inter 2-0 at the Allianz Arena in Group C. Benjamin Pavard headed home a corner and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting crashed in his seventh goal in six games.

Barcelona's bitterly disappointing tournament came to an end with a 4-2 victory at bottom club Viktoria Plzen. Barca will have to settle with being one of the favourites to win the Europa League.

"We're one of the candidates, the Europa League is looking like a good competition, the objective is to reach the end and win it, compete for it," said coach Xavi Hernandez.

Ferran Torres scored a brace, with Marcos Alonso and teenage midfielder Pablo Torre also on target.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg scored a 95th-minute winner as Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to beat Marseille 2-1 and reach the Champions League knockout stage on Tuesday, where they were joined by Eintracht Frankfurt after their victory at Sporting Lisbon.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg scored a 95th-minute winner as Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to beat Marseille 2-1 and reach the Champions League knockout stage on Tuesday, where they were joined by Eintracht Frankfurt after their victory at Sporting Lisbon. Liverpool ended Napoli's unbeaten start to the season with a 2-0 success at Anfield, but the Italian club did enough to finish top of Group A. Atletico Madrid crashed out of Europe altogether with a loss to Porto, while Bayern Munich made it six wins from six matches by beating Inter Milan. At a raucous Velodrome, Tottenham knew they would progress if they could avoid defeat by Marseille, although manager Antonio Conte had to watch from the stands after being red-carded in last week's dramatic draw with Sporting. Spurs were camped inside their own half for the majority of the first period and fell behind just before the break when Chancel Mbemba headed in Jordan Veretout's cross after a quickly-taken corner. The Premier League side were much improved after the restart and Clement Lenglet glanced in a 54th-minute equaliser. Former Arsenal left-back Sead Kolasinac nodded a glorious late opportunity to send Marseille through wide. He was made to pay as Hojbjerg struck on the counter as Spurs snatched top spot in the group and denied Marseille the consolation of a Europa League place. "I just spoke with Antonio. He's tired because to watch from the crowd is not normal," Tottenham assistant coach Cristian Stellini told BT Sport. "He wasted a lot of energy." Also Read: France's Paul Pogba to miss World Cup after failing to recover from surgery That Hojbjerg goal pushed Eintracht, who also won 2-1, down into second in Group D and kept Sporting in European competition. Like Tottenham, Sporting only needed a point to qualify and they forged ahead six minutes before half-time as Arthur Gomes volleyed home at the back post. But Frankfurt, playing in the competition for the first time since losing the 1960 European Cup final to Real Madrid, did not give up and Daichi Kamada scored a 62nd-minute penalty awarded for handball. Randal Kolo Muani provided the winning moment, latching onto Ansgar Knauff's hooked pass and hammering the ball into the far corner. The players celebrated wildly on the pitch after the Europa League holders' latest European exploit, with Sporting coach Ruben Amorim left looking stunned on the touchline. "We didn't start well at the beginning of the game," said Frankfurt midfielder Sebastian Rode. "But we are a comeback team, we gave everything in the second half and deservedly make the next round." Liverpool brought an end to Napoli's 21-game unbeaten run but could not win by four goals to take first place. Both teams were already assured of a knockout-phase berth. Liverpool put Saturday's surprise Premier League home loss to Leeds behind them, as late goals from Mohamed Salah, scoring in a fifth straight Champions League game, and Darwin Nunez gained a measure of revenge for the 4-1 loss in Naples in September. "I would have really enjoyed the game even without the goals," Reds manager Jurgen Klopp said. "We showed tonight a reaction. Being compact makes all the difference." Ajax saw off Rangers 3-1 at Ibrox to inflict a sixth straight defeat in Group A on the Scottish giants. Earlier, Atletico failed to finish third in Group B and drop into the Europa League as a 2-1 loss at Porto saw Bayer Leverkusen take third thanks to their goalless draw at Club Brugge. Also Read: Unpaid wages top complaint of migrant workers in Qatar, says UN labour agency Atletico, the 2014 and 2016 runners-up, were beaten by early goals from Mehdi Taremi and Stephen Eustaquio despite Ivan Marcano's stoppage-time own goal. Bayern finished with a 100-percent record by seeing off Inter 2-0 at the Allianz Arena in Group C. Benjamin Pavard headed home a corner and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting crashed in his seventh goal in six games. Barcelona's bitterly disappointing tournament came to an end with a 4-2 victory at bottom club Viktoria Plzen. Barca will have to settle with being one of the favourites to win the Europa League. "We're one of the candidates, the Europa League is looking like a good competition, the objective is to reach the end and win it, compete for it," said coach Xavi Hernandez. Ferran Torres scored a brace, with Marcos Alonso and teenage midfielder Pablo Torre also on target.

Tottenham Hotspur, Eintracht Frankfurt into Champions League last 16 as Liverpool beat Napoli

It was a disappointing night for Barcelona as the Spanish giants crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after losing to Bayern Munich on Thursday. The elimination was confirmed when Inter Milan defeated Viktoria Plzen and it got worse as they were defeated 3-0 by the German champions.

The social media was abuzz following Barcelona’s elimination from the tournament after an expensive summer transfer window where they added a number of big-money signings to their ranks. Reigning world chess champion Magnus Carlsen also took a dig at the club on Twitter.

“Good thing the Inter game is not close, so I can focus on chess and Barcelona on the Europa League,” Carlsen tweeted following Inter Milan’s victory in their group stage encounter.

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Thanks to the defeat, Barcelona are expected to finish third in the group stage and they will be demoted to the Europa League as a result. Manager Xavi Hernandez expressed his disappointment after the defeat and said that the team was “not at their level” against Bayern Munich.

“In Munich it was us, but today they have been better, more intense. The elimination affected us psychologically. Tomorrow, we train and think about LaLiga. There were high expectations, we had a difficult group. Everything possible happened to us. It has been very cruel. We didn’t compete well today,” he told Marca in the post-match interview.

It was a disappointing night for Barcelona as the Spanish giants crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after losing to Bayern Munich on Thursday. The elimination was confirmed when Inter Milan defeated Viktoria Plzen and it got worse as they were defeated 3-0 by the German champions.

It was a disappointing night for Barcelona as the Spanish giants crashed out of the UEFA Champions League after losing to Bayern Munich on Thursday. The elimination was confirmed when Inter Milan defeated Viktoria Plzen and it got worse as they were defeated 3-0 by the German champions. The social media was abuzz following Barcelona’s elimination from the tournament after an expensive summer transfer window where they added a number of big-money signings to their ranks. Reigning world chess champion Magnus Carlsen also took a dig at the club on Twitter. “Good thing the Inter game is not close, so I can focus on chess and Barcelona on the Europa League,” Carlsen tweeted following Inter Milan’s victory in their group stage encounter. Good thing the Inter game is not close, so I can focus on chess and Barcelona on the Europa League — Magnus Carlsen (@MagnusCarlsen) October 26, 2022 × Thanks to the defeat, Barcelona are expected to finish third in the group stage and they will be demoted to the Europa League as a result. Manager Xavi Hernandez expressed his disappointment after the defeat and said that the team was “not at their level” against Bayern Munich. “In Munich it was us, but today they have been better, more intense. The elimination affected us psychologically. Tomorrow, we train and think about LaLiga. There were high expectations, we had a difficult group. Everything possible happened to us. It has been very cruel. We didn’t compete well today,” he told Marca in the post-match interview.

'Europa League': Magnus Carlsen takes dig at Barcelona after Champions League elimination

Liverpool shrugged off their Premier League problems to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League with a 3-0 win over Ajax on Wednesday.

Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott were on target in Amsterdam as the Reds reached the knockout stage for a sixth consecutive season.

Jurgen Klopp's men still have a mountain to climb next week when Napoli visit Anfield if they are to finish top of Group A.

Liverpool trail the Italians by three points and need to better Napoli's 4-1 win when the sides met last month to get the better of the head-to-head record.

Defeat ends Ajax's chances of reaching the last 16 and the Dutch champions were left to rue not taking advantage of a fast start as they flew out the traps.

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Steven Berghuis should have opened the scoring after just two minutes when he fired against the post with just Alisson Becker to beat.

Berghuis then shot just wide from range and Dusan Tadic should have done better when he blasted into the body of Trent Alexander-Arnold at the back post.

Liverpool have now won as many Champions League matches this season as they have in 11 Premier League games.

The contrasting form of Jurgen Klopp's men between domestic and European action is reflected in Salah's scoring record.

Of the Egyptian's nine goals this season, six have come in the Champions League as he produced a cool finish over Remko Pasveer from Jordan Henderson's through ball to settle Liverpool nerves.

The visitors should have been out of sight before half-time but for an astonishing miss from Nunez, who hit the post with the goal gaping from Roberto Firmino's unselfish pass.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/528767" hreflang="en">Barcelona exit UCL after Inter Milan win, later get thrashed by Bayern Munich</a>

Nunez has had a rollercoaster start to his career with the Reds after a 75 million euro ($74 million) move from Benfica and he quickly made amends after the break.

The Uruguayan rose highest to power Andy Robertson's corner in off the far post on 49 minutes.

Three minutes later, Liverpool were cruising when Salah picked out the run of Elliott, who fired high past Pasveer from a narrow angle.

Klopp pointed much of the blame for his side's lack of consistency in the opening months of the season to a catalogue of injuries.

And with another five games still to come before the World Cup break next month, a commanding lead meant the Liverpool could take their foot off the gas in the final half-hour with Nunez, Fabinho and Henderson among those handed a rest by Klopp.

Liverpool shrugged off their Premier League problems to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League with a 3-0 win over Ajax on Wednesday. Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott were on target in Amsterdam as the Reds reached the knockout stage for a sixth consecutive season.

Liverpool shrugged off their Premier League problems to qualify for the last 16 of the Champions League with a 3-0 win over Ajax on Wednesday. Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott were on target in Amsterdam as the Reds reached the knockout stage for a sixth consecutive season. Jurgen Klopp's men still have a mountain to climb next week when Napoli visit Anfield if they are to finish top of Group A. Liverpool trail the Italians by three points and need to better Napoli's 4-1 win when the sides met last month to get the better of the head-to-head record. Defeat ends Ajax's chances of reaching the last 16 and the Dutch champions were left to rue not taking advantage of a fast start as they flew out the traps. Also read | Why equal match fee is only the first step in the right direction for BCCI Steven Berghuis should have opened the scoring after just two minutes when he fired against the post with just Alisson Becker to beat. Berghuis then shot just wide from range and Dusan Tadic should have done better when he blasted into the body of Trent Alexander-Arnold at the back post. Liverpool have now won as many Champions League matches this season as they have in 11 Premier League games. The contrasting form of Jurgen Klopp's men between domestic and European action is reflected in Salah's scoring record. Of the Egyptian's nine goals this season, six have come in the Champions League as he produced a cool finish over Remko Pasveer from Jordan Henderson's through ball to settle Liverpool nerves. The visitors should have been out of sight before half-time but for an astonishing miss from Nunez, who hit the post with the goal gaping from Roberto Firmino's unselfish pass. Also read | Barcelona exit UCL after Inter Milan win, later get thrashed by Bayern Munich Nunez has had a rollercoaster start to his career with the Reds after a 75 million euro ($74 million) move from Benfica and he quickly made amends after the break. The Uruguayan rose highest to power Andy Robertson's corner in off the far post on 49 minutes. Three minutes later, Liverpool were cruising when Salah picked out the run of Elliott, who fired high past Pasveer from a narrow angle. Klopp pointed much of the blame for his side's lack of consistency in the opening months of the season to a catalogue of injuries. And with another five games still to come before the World Cup break next month, a commanding lead meant the Liverpool could take their foot off the gas in the final half-hour with Nunez, Fabinho and Henderson among those handed a rest by Klopp.

Liverpool steamroller Ajax to cruise into Champions League last 16

RB Leipzig took a big step towards the Champions League knockout stage with a 3-2 home win over an under-strength Real Madrid side thanks to goals from Josko Gvardiol, Christopher Nkunku and Timo Werner on Tuesday.

The German side are second in Group F on nine points, one behind leaders Real and three ahead of Shakhtar Donetsk, who they face in their final group game next week in need of a draw to guarantee a top-two spot.

With Real Madrid having already qualified for the last 16, manager Carlo Ancelotti rested several regular starters and his side were dominated early on by the young Leipzig team.

The home side took the lead 13 minutes into the game with Gvardiol scoring on the rebound from a Thibaut Courtois save after a bullet header by Andre Silva.

With the European champions still recovering from the first blow, Leipzig extended their advantage five minutes later when David Raum tried to pass into the box but the ball deflected off a defender into the path of Nkunku who was quick to react and rifled the ball in off the crossbar.

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Leipzig had two more great chances but Courtois saved Amadou Haidara's strike from the edge of the box and Nkuku put a close-range shot wide after beating the onrushing Courtois to the ball but ending up with a tight angle trying to find the empty net.

"I think we came out very distracted in the beginning of the game and were caught sleeping against a team that is very aggressive," Real goalkeeper Courtois told Movistar Plus.

"Coach Ancelotti warned us before the game that they are a feisty team at home, very aggressive, but we still started slow and paid the price.

"It’s unacceptable our performance in the beginning of the match, we can’t concede two goals from corners in the start of the match."

However, what was a one-sided affair slowly became a ding-dong battle, with Real growing in strength and the hosts slowing down after their frantic but hard to maintain rhythm of the first minutes of the match.

Vinicius Jr got Real back into the game just before the break with a header that went just inside the left post. Real came back even stronger in a lively second-half, with the Spanish giants dominating possession and missing several chances albeit leaving themselves exposed to counter-attacks.

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Leipzig coach Marco Rose saw the opportunity and made three substitutions to seize on the opportunity to counter. They missed three chances through Nkunku and Dani Olmo before substitute Werner struck from close range to finish a quick attack in the 81st minute and put Leipzig 3-1 up.

After being fouled, Rodrygo got up to convert a penalty for Real's second goal in added time butit was not enough to avoid their first loss in all competitions this season.

"We knew Madrid were strong on the ball and there would be phases where we were pushed back," said Werner. "Rose told us to be brave when in possession and that's what we did.

"We have achieved what we wanted. We have it in our own hands (to go through to the last 16) and don't even need to win against Shakhtar now."

RB Leipzig took a big step towards the Champions League knockout stage with a 3-2 home win over an under-strength Real Madrid side thanks to goals from Josko Gvardiol, Christopher Nkunku and Timo Werner on Tuesday.

RB Leipzig took a big step towards the Champions League knockout stage with a 3-2 home win over an under-strength Real Madrid side thanks to goals from Josko Gvardiol, Christopher Nkunku and Timo Werner on Tuesday. The German side are second in Group F on nine points, one behind leaders Real and three ahead of Shakhtar Donetsk, who they face in their final group game next week in need of a draw to guarantee a top-two spot. With Real Madrid having already qualified for the last 16, manager Carlo Ancelotti rested several regular starters and his side were dominated early on by the young Leipzig team. The home side took the lead 13 minutes into the game with Gvardiol scoring on the rebound from a Thibaut Courtois save after a bullet header by Andre Silva. With the European champions still recovering from the first blow, Leipzig extended their advantage five minutes later when David Raum tried to pass into the box but the ball deflected off a defender into the path of Nkunku who was quick to react and rifled the ball in off the crossbar. Also Read: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe both score twice as PSG romp past Maccabi Haifa 7-2 Leipzig had two more great chances but Courtois saved Amadou Haidara's strike from the edge of the box and Nkuku put a close-range shot wide after beating the onrushing Courtois to the ball but ending up with a tight angle trying to find the empty net. "I think we came out very distracted in the beginning of the game and were caught sleeping against a team that is very aggressive," Real goalkeeper Courtois told Movistar Plus. "Coach Ancelotti warned us before the game that they are a feisty team at home, very aggressive, but we still started slow and paid the price. "It’s unacceptable our performance in the beginning of the match, we can’t concede two goals from corners in the start of the match." However, what was a one-sided affair slowly became a ding-dong battle, with Real growing in strength and the hosts slowing down after their frantic but hard to maintain rhythm of the first minutes of the match. Vinicius Jr got Real back into the game just before the break with a header that went just inside the left post. Real came back even stronger in a lively second-half, with the Spanish giants dominating possession and missing several chances albeit leaving themselves exposed to counter-attacks. Also Read: Qatar faced unprecedented criticism over hosting FIFA World Cup, reveals emir Leipzig coach Marco Rose saw the opportunity and made three substitutions to seize on the opportunity to counter. They missed three chances through Nkunku and Dani Olmo before substitute Werner struck from close range to finish a quick attack in the 81st minute and put Leipzig 3-1 up. After being fouled, Rodrygo got up to convert a penalty for Real's second goal in added time butit was not enough to avoid their first loss in all competitions this season. "We knew Madrid were strong on the ball and there would be phases where we were pushed back," said Werner. "Rose told us to be brave when in possession and that's what we did. "We have achieved what we wanted. We have it in our own hands (to go through to the last 16) and don't even need to win against Shakhtar now."

RB Leipzig one step closer to last 16 after stunning 3-2 win over Real Madrid in Champions League

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