Portugal beat Switzerland 4-0 in the ongoing UEFA Nations League clash&nbsp;at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon. In the one-sided encounter, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to have a memorable outing.&nbsp;

After William Carvalho opened the scoring for the Portuguese, Ronaldo followed suit and struck his first goal in the 35th minute. The five-time Ballon D'or winner found himself on the scoresheet once again, just after four minutes,&nbsp;as Portugal were 3-0 up at the time of the half-time interval. Later, Joao Cancelo scored&nbsp;in the 68th minute as Portugal romped past the hapless Swiss line-up.&nbsp;

It was after Portugal's second goal and the first of the evening for superstar Ronaldo that the cameras focused on his mother&nbsp;Dolores Aveiro. She was in attendance and stood up to applaud her son after he joined the scoring sheet and extended his lead&nbsp;as the top goal-scorer ever in men's international football (118* goals). Aveiro, a proud mother, was left in tears seeing Ronaldo's blitz. Here's the video:

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Cristiano's mother cries 🥺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7𓃵</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PORSUI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PORSUI</a> <a href="https://t.co/X7AasNcSEj">pic.twitter.com/X7AasNcSEj</a>
— Sudarshan⭐ (@meThesudarshan) <a href="https://twitter.com/meThesudarshan/status/1533533565874753536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Post the game, Ronaldo took to his official&nbsp;Twitter account and wrote, "A very important victory in our journey, a lot of pride and confidence in this group, a lot of strength to give the Portuguese what we so desire: victories and convincing performances. It looks like the season is about to end, but really… this is just beginning!"

Portugal beat Switzerland 4-0 in the ongoing UEFA Nations League clash at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon. In the one-sided encounter, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to have a memorable outing.

Portugal beat Switzerland 4-0 in the ongoing UEFA Nations League clash at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon. In the one-sided encounter, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to have a memorable outing. After William Carvalho opened the scoring for the Portuguese, Ronaldo followed suit and struck his first goal in the 35th minute. The five-time Ballon D'or winner found himself on the scoresheet once again, just after four minutes, as Portugal were 3-0 up at the time of the half-time interval. Later, Joao Cancelo scored in the 68th minute as Portugal romped past the hapless Swiss line-up. It was after Portugal's second goal and the first of the evening for superstar Ronaldo that the cameras focused on his mother Dolores Aveiro. She was in attendance and stood up to applaud her son after he joined the scoring sheet and extended his lead as the top goal-scorer ever in men's international football (118* goals). Aveiro, a proud mother, was left in tears seeing Ronaldo's blitz. Here's the video: Cristiano's mother cries 🥺 #CR7𓃵 #PORSUI pic.twitter.com/X7AasNcSEj — Sudarshan⭐ (@meThesudarshan) June 5, 2022 × ALSO READ | PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe is world's most valuable player, reveals study Post the game, Ronaldo took to his official Twitter account and wrote, "A very important victory in our journey, a lot of pride and confidence in this group, a lot of strength to give the Portuguese what we so desire: victories and convincing performances. It looks like the season is about to end, but really… this is just beginning!"

Cristiano Ronaldo's mother in tears after her son scores in Portugal's 4-0 win vs Switzerland - Watch

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland.

Mbappe, who turned down Real and signed a new three-year deal at PSG last month, topped the list&nbsp;with an estimated transfer value of 205.6 million euros ($219.5 million), beating Vinicius (185.3 million euros) and Haaland (152.6 million euros). Mbappe`s PSG teammate Neymar holds the current transfer record. The French champions paid Barcelona 222 million euros for his signature in 2017.

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The top five was rounded off by Barca youngster Pedri (135.1 million euros) and Borussia Dortmund`s English midfielder Jude Bellingham (133.7 million euros). The CIES Football Observatory uses such indicators as player age, performance, career progression and contract duration to arrive at a transfer value.

The latest list was dominated by Premier League players, with 41 representatives in the top 100. 
City`s Ruben Dias (109.6 million euros) had the highest transfer value for a defender while PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma (73.7 million euros) led among goalkeepers. City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, 30, was the oldest player on the list, with a value of 57.3 million euros.

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland.

Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe is the most valuable soccer player in the world, according to Swiss research group CIES Football Observatory, followed by Real Madrid`s Vinicius Jr and new Manchester City recruit Erling Haaland. Mbappe, who turned down Real and signed a new three-year deal at PSG last month, topped the list with an estimated transfer value of 205.6 million euros ($219.5 million), beating Vinicius (185.3 million euros) and Haaland (152.6 million euros). Mbappe`s PSG teammate Neymar holds the current transfer record. The French champions paid Barcelona 222 million euros for his signature in 2017. ALSO READ | Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini face Swiss corruption trail The top five was rounded off by Barca youngster Pedri (135.1 million euros) and Borussia Dortmund`s English midfielder Jude Bellingham (133.7 million euros). The CIES Football Observatory uses such indicators as player age, performance, career progression and contract duration to arrive at a transfer value. The latest list was dominated by Premier League players, with 41 representatives in the top 100. City`s Ruben Dias (109.6 million euros) had the highest transfer value for a defender while PSG`s Gianluigi Donnarumma (73.7 million euros) led among goalkeepers. City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, 30, was the oldest player on the list, with a value of 57.3 million euros.

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe is world's most valuable player, reveals study

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini are due to appear in a Swiss court on Wednesday facing corruption charges which triggered their downfall from the summit of global football.

Swiss prosecutors accuse the pair, once among the game`s most powerful figures, of unlawfully arranging a payment of two million Swiss francs ($2.08 million) in 2011 from FIFA to Platini. The case meant Blatter ended his 17-year reign as FIFA president in disgrace and torpedoed hopes by former France midfielder Platini of succeeding him.

It is one of 25 investigations by the Swiss Office of the Attorney General (OAG) into corruption in football, with some 12 still pending. Following a six-year investigation, the OAG accused Blatter, 86, of "fraud, in the alternative of misappropriation, in the further alternative of criminal mismanagement as well as of forgery of a document".

Platini, 66, is accused of fraud, misappropriation, participating in criminal mismanagement as an accomplice, and forgery of a document. Blatter and Platini, who were once close associates but are now bitter enemies, have both denied wrongdoing. They say they had a verbal agreement over the payment, which related to consultancy work by Platini between 1998 and 2002.

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Three judges at the Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona, will hear the case in the trial which runs until June 22. A verdict is due on July 8. If convicted, Platini and Blatter face up to five years in jail. 
"This case goes back to an event in 2011. It is an administrative matter, a salary payment that was owed," said Blatter. "The matter was correctly declared as a salary payment, accounted for accordingly and approved by all the relevant bodies of FIFA."

Platini said: "I approach this hearing with serenity and confidence. I am convinced that justice will be fully and definitively done to me after so many years of wild accusations and slander. We will prove in court that I acted with the utmost honesty, that the payment of the remaining salary was due to me by FIFA and is perfectly legal."

FIFA`s Ethics Committee banned Blatter and Platini from football in 2015, initially for eight years, although this was later reduced. The committee said the transaction, made when Blatter was seeking re-election, lacked transparency and presented a conflict of interest.

When Blatter approved the payment, he was campaigning for re-election against Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar. Platini, as president of European soccer association UEFA, was seen as having sway with European members who could influence the vote. The OAG said its investigation revealed that Platini worked as a consultant between 1998-2002 and that an annual compensation of 300,000 Swiss francs was contractually agreed.

Platini`s invoice had been paid in full but the former France international later demanded further salary payments of two million francs, it said. Platini, who captained France to victory in the 1984 European Championships, was forced to quit UEFA in 2016 after losing his appeal against his ban. He also lost his appeal at the European Court of Human Rights.

The three-time European footballer of the year had been favourite to replace Blatter after the Swiss administrator quit in the wake of the huge corruption scandal which engulfed FIFA in 2015. Instead, Platini`s former general secretary at UEFA, Gianni Infantino, entered the FIFA race and won the election in 2016.

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini are due to appear in a Swiss court on Wednesday facing corruption charges which triggered their downfall from the summit of global football.

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini are due to appear in a Swiss court on Wednesday facing corruption charges which triggered their downfall from the summit of global football. Swiss prosecutors accuse the pair, once among the game`s most powerful figures, of unlawfully arranging a payment of two million Swiss francs ($2.08 million) in 2011 from FIFA to Platini. The case meant Blatter ended his 17-year reign as FIFA president in disgrace and torpedoed hopes by former France midfielder Platini of succeeding him. It is one of 25 investigations by the Swiss Office of the Attorney General (OAG) into corruption in football, with some 12 still pending. Following a six-year investigation, the OAG accused Blatter, 86, of "fraud, in the alternative of misappropriation, in the further alternative of criminal mismanagement as well as of forgery of a document". Platini, 66, is accused of fraud, misappropriation, participating in criminal mismanagement as an accomplice, and forgery of a document. Blatter and Platini, who were once close associates but are now bitter enemies, have both denied wrongdoing. They say they had a verbal agreement over the payment, which related to consultancy work by Platini between 1998 and 2002. ALSO READ | Neymar strikes from penalty spot as Brazil beat Japan 1-0 Three judges at the Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona, will hear the case in the trial which runs until June 22. A verdict is due on July 8. If convicted, Platini and Blatter face up to five years in jail. "This case goes back to an event in 2011. It is an administrative matter, a salary payment that was owed," said Blatter. "The matter was correctly declared as a salary payment, accounted for accordingly and approved by all the relevant bodies of FIFA." Platini said: "I approach this hearing with serenity and confidence. I am convinced that justice will be fully and definitively done to me after so many years of wild accusations and slander. We will prove in court that I acted with the utmost honesty, that the payment of the remaining salary was due to me by FIFA and is perfectly legal." FIFA`s Ethics Committee banned Blatter and Platini from football in 2015, initially for eight years, although this was later reduced. The committee said the transaction, made when Blatter was seeking re-election, lacked transparency and presented a conflict of interest. When Blatter approved the payment, he was campaigning for re-election against Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar. Platini, as president of European soccer association UEFA, was seen as having sway with European members who could influence the vote. The OAG said its investigation revealed that Platini worked as a consultant between 1998-2002 and that an annual compensation of 300,000 Swiss francs was contractually agreed. Platini`s invoice had been paid in full but the former France international later demanded further salary payments of two million francs, it said. Platini, who captained France to victory in the 1984 European Championships, was forced to quit UEFA in 2016 after losing his appeal against his ban. He also lost his appeal at the European Court of Human Rights. The three-time European footballer of the year had been favourite to replace Blatter after the Swiss administrator quit in the wake of the huge corruption scandal which engulfed FIFA in 2015. Instead, Platini`s former general secretary at UEFA, Gianni Infantino, entered the FIFA race and won the election in 2016.

Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA President Michel Platini face Swiss corruption trail

Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned Manchester United`s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year in his first season back at the Premier League club. In his first spell at United, Ronaldo won the coveted award in three campaigns - 2003/04, 2006/07 and 2007/08. After an impressive return to Old Trafford, fans have voted for the Portuguese icon to receive the trophy for a record-equalling fourth time. David De Gea is the only other Red to have claimed a quartet of Sir Matt Busby statuettes.

United`s no.7 has enjoyed a clinical campaign, registering 24 goals in all competitions and defying anyone who doubted whether the 37-year-old could still perform in the cut and thrust of English football after his long stints in Spain and Italy. The majority of Ronaldo`s strikes - 18 - came in the Premier League, a tally that positioned him third behind only Mohamed Salah and Son Heung-min who shared the Golden Boot prize. The six-time Ballon d`Or winner is no stranger to individual honours and has produced a number of match-winning displays for the Reds across the season, including his hat-tricks against Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City, and his second debut against Newcastle United when he netted twice in front of the ecstatic Old Trafford crowd.

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In addition to his domestic goalscoring exploits, the Portuguese striker bagged six Champions League goals, demonstrating once again his ability to deliver at the highest level of club football.De Gea - United`s Players` Player of the Year - was the runner-up to Ronaldo for the Sir Matt Busby award, while resurgent midfielder Fred emerged in third place. Both candidates joined Cristiano in demonstrating impressive consistency across what was a difficult season for the team overall.

Despite their challenges, the legendary no.7 was a convincing victor in the end, adding yet another entry to an already incredibly long list of achievements.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned Manchester United`s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year in his first season back at the Premier League club. In his first spell at United, Ronaldo won the coveted award in three campaigns - 2003/04, 2006/07 and 2007/08.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned Manchester United`s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year in his first season back at the Premier League club. In his first spell at United, Ronaldo won the coveted award in three campaigns - 2003/04, 2006/07 and 2007/08. After an impressive return to Old Trafford, fans have voted for the Portuguese icon to receive the trophy for a record-equalling fourth time. David De Gea is the only other Red to have claimed a quartet of Sir Matt Busby statuettes. United`s no.7 has enjoyed a clinical campaign, registering 24 goals in all competitions and defying anyone who doubted whether the 37-year-old could still perform in the cut and thrust of English football after his long stints in Spain and Italy. The majority of Ronaldo`s strikes - 18 - came in the Premier League, a tally that positioned him third behind only Mohamed Salah and Son Heung-min who shared the Golden Boot prize. The six-time Ballon d`Or winner is no stranger to individual honours and has produced a number of match-winning displays for the Reds across the season, including his hat-tricks against Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City, and his second debut against Newcastle United when he netted twice in front of the ecstatic Old Trafford crowd. ALSO READ | Gareth Bale-led Wales beat Ukraine 1-0, qualify for 2022 World Cup In addition to his domestic goalscoring exploits, the Portuguese striker bagged six Champions League goals, demonstrating once again his ability to deliver at the highest level of club football.De Gea - United`s Players` Player of the Year - was the runner-up to Ronaldo for the Sir Matt Busby award, while resurgent midfielder Fred emerged in third place. Both candidates joined Cristiano in demonstrating impressive consistency across what was a difficult season for the team overall. Despite their challenges, the legendary no.7 was a convincing victor in the end, adding yet another entry to an already incredibly long list of achievements.

Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo bags Manchester United's Player of Year for record-equalling time

Neymar`s penalty 13 minutes from time earned Brazil a 1-0 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers Japan at Tokyo`s National Stadium on Monday as the Paris St Germain striker moved to within three goals of Pele`s all-time national scoring record.

The forward coolly slotted the ball past Shuichi Gonda to hit his 74th goal in 119 internationals after being frustrated on several occasions by the Japanese goalkeeper in front of a rain-soaked crowd of 63,638 fans.

Brazil`s win came off the back of their 5-1 thrashing of South Korea on Thursday as Tite`s side prepare for their assault on the World Cup in Qatar in November.

The visitors threatened early, with Lucas Paqueta hitting the post inside the first two minutes when he latched on to Neymar`s instinctive backheel pass inside the area.

Fred fired over from distance soon after and Raphina forced Shuichi Gonda to save with his feet before Neymar`s firmly-struck, curling effort from outside the area was palmed to safety by the goalkeeper after flying through a crowd of players.

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Gonda was on hand again to keep out the visitors three minutes before the end of the half, with Pacqueta slipping the ball through to Neymar, but the Paris St Germain man was denied.

Neymar continued to probe, seeing a shot blocked by Endo`s head eight minutes after the restart, while Ko Itakura made a perfectly timed intervention to put himself between the Brazilian striker`s volley and the Japan goal.

The pressure eventually told, however, with Neymar at the heart of the action once more.

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The 30-year-old`s initial effort was well saved by Gonda but as substitute Richarlison attempted to collect possession he was brought down by Endo and referee Alireza Faghani pointed to the spot.

Neymar sent Gonda the wrong way to score for the ninth time in five appearances against the Japanese and move closer to eclipsing Pele`s long-standing mark.

Neymar`s penalty 13 minutes from time earned Brazil a 1-0 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers Japan at Tokyo`s National Stadium on Monday as the Paris St Germain striker moved to within three goals of Pele`s all-time national scoring record.

Neymar`s penalty 13 minutes from time earned Brazil a 1-0 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers Japan at Tokyo`s National Stadium on Monday as the Paris St Germain striker moved to within three goals of Pele`s all-time national scoring record. The forward coolly slotted the ball past Shuichi Gonda to hit his 74th goal in 119 internationals after being frustrated on several occasions by the Japanese goalkeeper in front of a rain-soaked crowd of 63,638 fans. Brazil`s win came off the back of their 5-1 thrashing of South Korea on Thursday as Tite`s side prepare for their assault on the World Cup in Qatar in November. The visitors threatened early, with Lucas Paqueta hitting the post inside the first two minutes when he latched on to Neymar`s instinctive backheel pass inside the area. Fred fired over from distance soon after and Raphina forced Shuichi Gonda to save with his feet before Neymar`s firmly-struck, curling effort from outside the area was palmed to safety by the goalkeeper after flying through a crowd of players. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo scores a brace as Portugal thrash Switzerland 4-0 in UEFA Nations League Gonda was on hand again to keep out the visitors three minutes before the end of the half, with Pacqueta slipping the ball through to Neymar, but the Paris St Germain man was denied. Neymar continued to probe, seeing a shot blocked by Endo`s head eight minutes after the restart, while Ko Itakura made a perfectly timed intervention to put himself between the Brazilian striker`s volley and the Japan goal. The pressure eventually told, however, with Neymar at the heart of the action once more. Also Read: Lionel Messi scores all five goals as Argentina beat Estonia 5-0 in a friendly The 30-year-old`s initial effort was well saved by Gonda but as substitute Richarlison attempted to collect possession he was brought down by Endo and referee Alireza Faghani pointed to the spot. Neymar sent Gonda the wrong way to score for the ninth time in five appearances against the Japanese and move closer to eclipsing Pele`s long-standing mark.

Neymar strikes from penalty spot as Brazil beat Japan 1-0

Lionel Messi scored all the goals in Argentina's 5-0 friendly win over Estonia in Pamplona, Spain on Sunday.

Messi joins a select club comprising only Juan Andres Marvezy and Manuel Moreno to score five in a game for Argentina.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or scored from the spot in the eighth minute, then added four more in the space of half an hour (45, 47, 71 and 76 minutes).

His quintet extended his record tally of goals for his country to 86.

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Lionel Scaloni's side are unbeaten in 33 matches, the last loss a 2-0 defeat to Brazil in the semi-finals of the 2019 Copa America.

At the World Cup finals in Qatar later this year Argentina are drawn with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.

Lionel Messi scored all the goals in Argentina's 5-0 friendly win over Estonia in Pamplona, Spain on Sunday. Messi joins a select club comprising only Juan Andres Marvezy and Manuel Moreno to score five in a game for Argentina.

Lionel Messi scored all the goals in Argentina's 5-0 friendly win over Estonia in Pamplona, Spain on Sunday. Messi joins a select club comprising only Juan Andres Marvezy and Manuel Moreno to score five in a game for Argentina. The seven-time Ballon d'Or scored from the spot in the eighth minute, then added four more in the space of half an hour (45, 47, 71 and 76 minutes). His quintet extended his record tally of goals for his country to 86. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo scores a brace as Portugal thrash Switzerland 4-0 in UEFA Nations League Lionel Scaloni's side are unbeaten in 33 matches, the last loss a 2-0 defeat to Brazil in the semi-finals of the 2019 Copa America. At the World Cup finals in Qatar later this year Argentina are drawn with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.

Lionel Messi scores all five goals as Argentina beat Estonia 5-0 in a friendly

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal swept to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Switzerland in their UEFA Nations League clash at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon on Sunday.

William Carvalho and Joao Cancelo were also on the scoresheet as the hosts wasted numerous opportunities to inflict more humiliation on the visitors, who suffered their biggest defeat since losing to Germany by the same scoreline in 2008.

Portugal have four points from their opening two Group A2 matches and are ahead of second-place Czech Republic on goal difference. Switzerland are on zero after back-to-back losses and are now winless in their last four encounters since they qualified for the World Cup in Qatar.

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Carvalho opened the scoring when he reacted quickest to the loose ball when Ronaldo`s free-kick was parried before the latter bagged a quickfire brace to extend his record tally of international goals to 117.

Ronaldo should have had a hat-trick when he wasted two excellent opportunities before halftime, the first a barely believable miss from six yards, but it was left to Cancelo to score the fourth for Portugal in the second half.

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Portugal host Czech Republic in their next fixture on Thursday, while Switzerland entertain Spain in Geneva on the same evening.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal swept to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Switzerland in their UEFA Nations League clash at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon on Sunday.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal swept to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Switzerland in their UEFA Nations League clash at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon on Sunday. William Carvalho and Joao Cancelo were also on the scoresheet as the hosts wasted numerous opportunities to inflict more humiliation on the visitors, who suffered their biggest defeat since losing to Germany by the same scoreline in 2008. Portugal have four points from their opening two Group A2 matches and are ahead of second-place Czech Republic on goal difference. Switzerland are on zero after back-to-back losses and are now winless in their last four encounters since they qualified for the World Cup in Qatar. Also Read: Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo bags Manchester United's Player of Year for record-equalling time Carvalho opened the scoring when he reacted quickest to the loose ball when Ronaldo`s free-kick was parried before the latter bagged a quickfire brace to extend his record tally of international goals to 117. Ronaldo should have had a hat-trick when he wasted two excellent opportunities before halftime, the first a barely believable miss from six yards, but it was left to Cancelo to score the fourth for Portugal in the second half. Also Read: Gareth Bale-led Wales beat Ukraine 1-0, qualify for 2022 World Cup Portugal host Czech Republic in their next fixture on Thursday, while Switzerland entertain Spain in Geneva on the same evening.

Cristiano Ronaldo scores a brace as Portugal thrash Switzerland 4-0 in UEFA Nations League

A second-half penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai earned Hungary a shock 1-0 win over England in the Nations League on Saturday - their first victory against Gareth Southgate's side in 60 years. Looking to get their preparations for the Qatar World Cup, which begins later this year, up and running, England were surprisingly second best from the off in Budapest, and were fortunate to go into the break all square.

The hosts kept coming and made their pressure count as Szoboszlai converted from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after Zsolt Nagy was fouled by Chelsea defender Reece James - a decision which incensed the England players.

England pressed as they looked for a leveller, but they could not create that killer chance as their Nations League campaign got off to a disappointing start. The tests keep coming with Germany England`s next League A, Group Three opponents on Tuesday, while Hungary will look to make it five wins in six when they face European champions Italy.

"We`ve got a massive game coming up on Tuesday," England defender Conor Coady told Channel 4. "We need to look at this performance and learn from it very quickly.

"I thought we started off quite well. We need to tidy up and bounce back. We need to look at how we performed and how we move forward because these are big games for us."

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Hungary were forced to host England `behind closed doors` after being disciplined by both FIFA and UEFA for repeated racist behaviour from their fans, but the Hungarian FA said last month that children could attend the match at the Puskas Arena.

Under Article 73 of UEFA`s disciplinary regulations, children up to the age of 14 from schools and/or football academies can be invited to a `behind closed doors` match free of charge, provided they are accompanied by an adult, meaning the stadium could be half full, mostly with children.

Some of those in attendance chose to boo the England players as they took the knee in protest against racial injustice before kick-off. The most unfancied team in Nations League League A, Group Three, Hungary almost gave their youthful support something to shout about early on as Coady was forced to clear off the line after Szoboszlai had bundled the ball towards goal.

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England, who handed debuts to West Ham United`s Jarrod Bowen and Leicester City defender James Justin, failed to make any inroads in the first half, as Adam Szalai almost scored a sensational opener from the halfway line.

The visitors improved after the break, with substitute Bukayo Saka seeing an effort well saved, before Hungary did take a deserved lead, but the decision from the Portuguese referee was one that did not sit well with England. 
James seemed to lead with his arm, which did catch Nagy, who went down very easily. Szoboszlai`s finish from the spot was emphatic.

England committed more forward after falling behind, with Coady glancing a header agonisingly wide from a free kick. Otherwise, the hosts were comfortable, seeing out their victory, a first in 15 attempts since a win at the 1962 World Cup in Chile, with ease.

A second-half penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai earned Hungary a shock 1-0 win over England in the Nations League on Saturday - their first victory against Gareth Southgate's side in 60 years.

A second-half penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai earned Hungary a shock 1-0 win over England in the Nations League on Saturday - their first victory against Gareth Southgate's side in 60 years. Looking to get their preparations for the Qatar World Cup, which begins later this year, up and running, England were surprisingly second best from the off in Budapest, and were fortunate to go into the break all square. The hosts kept coming and made their pressure count as Szoboszlai converted from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after Zsolt Nagy was fouled by Chelsea defender Reece James - a decision which incensed the England players. England pressed as they looked for a leveller, but they could not create that killer chance as their Nations League campaign got off to a disappointing start. The tests keep coming with Germany England`s next League A, Group Three opponents on Tuesday, while Hungary will look to make it five wins in six when they face European champions Italy. "We`ve got a massive game coming up on Tuesday," England defender Conor Coady told Channel 4. "We need to look at this performance and learn from it very quickly. "I thought we started off quite well. We need to tidy up and bounce back. We need to look at how we performed and how we move forward because these are big games for us." Also Read: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema drops appeal over 'sex tape' sentence Hungary were forced to host England `behind closed doors` after being disciplined by both FIFA and UEFA for repeated racist behaviour from their fans, but the Hungarian FA said last month that children could attend the match at the Puskas Arena. Under Article 73 of UEFA`s disciplinary regulations, children up to the age of 14 from schools and/or football academies can be invited to a `behind closed doors` match free of charge, provided they are accompanied by an adult, meaning the stadium could be half full, mostly with children. Some of those in attendance chose to boo the England players as they took the knee in protest against racial injustice before kick-off. The most unfancied team in Nations League League A, Group Three, Hungary almost gave their youthful support something to shout about early on as Coady was forced to clear off the line after Szoboszlai had bundled the ball towards goal. Also Read: UEFA apologizes to Liverpool and Real Madrid fans over Champions League final chaos England, who handed debuts to West Ham United`s Jarrod Bowen and Leicester City defender James Justin, failed to make any inroads in the first half, as Adam Szalai almost scored a sensational opener from the halfway line. The visitors improved after the break, with substitute Bukayo Saka seeing an effort well saved, before Hungary did take a deserved lead, but the decision from the Portuguese referee was one that did not sit well with England. James seemed to lead with his arm, which did catch Nagy, who went down very easily. Szoboszlai`s finish from the spot was emphatic. England committed more forward after falling behind, with Coady glancing a header agonisingly wide from a free kick. Otherwise, the hosts were comfortable, seeing out their victory, a first in 15 attempts since a win at the 1962 World Cup in Chile, with ease.

Dominik Szoboszlai's penalty earns Hungary first win over England in 60 years

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday.

Benzema was sentenced in November 2021 and fined 75,000 euros ($82,000) over the 2015 extortion attempt that shocked French football and saw him exiled from the French national team for five-and-a-half years.

The Real Madrid star has finally dropped his appeal, his lawyer Hugues Vigier told AFP, confirming a report on the Actu78 website.

The Versailles court of appeal will notify the parties of the withdrawal order on Tuesday.

Benzema was one of five people tried over the ultimately unsuccessful attempt to blackmail Valbuena with a sexually explicit video stolen from his phone.

He was not accused of being behind the extortion attempt but rather of conspiring with the suspected blackmailers by putting pressure on Valbuena to pay them off.

The 34-year-old footballer had been set to appeal on June 30-July 1 at the court in Versailles, outside Paris. His former lawyer, Antoine Vey, had said Benzema would explain himself in person at the appeal trial.

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In its November judgment, the Versailles criminal court ruled that Benzema had “implicated himself personally, through subterfuge and lies, to convince his teammate to submit to the blackmail".

It added he had shown “no kindness towards Valbuena", as he had claimed, but “just the opposite" and had even appeared to take pleasure in his fellow player’s plight.

The affair rocked the French national team and led to the Madrid star being cast out of the side for five-and-a-half years before making a surprise return to “Les Bleus" in 2021 in time for the European championship.

Benzema, who has always maintained his innocence, has on several occasions expressed his desire to turn the page on the affair as soon as possible.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-demand-answers-after-ucl-final-marred-by-crowd-trouble-484789">Real Madrid demand answers after UCL final marred by crowd trouble</a>

News of the star striker’s announcement that he was dropping his appeal came just hours after he scored a brilliant opening goal in France’s UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark in Paris.

The Danes, however, recovered to win 2-1 after substitute Andreas Cornelius scored twice.

Benzema is a favourite for the Ballon d’Or after helping Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final in Paris last weekend

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has dropped an appeal against a one-year suspended sentence for complicity in a bid to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena with a sex tape, his lawyer said Saturday. Benzema was sentenced in November 2021 and fined 75,000 euros ($82,000) over the 2015 extortion attempt that shocked French football and saw him exiled from the French national team for five-and-a-half years. The Real Madrid star has finally dropped his appeal, his lawyer Hugues Vigier told AFP, confirming a report on the Actu78 website. The Versailles court of appeal will notify the parties of the withdrawal order on Tuesday. Benzema was one of five people tried over the ultimately unsuccessful attempt to blackmail Valbuena with a sexually explicit video stolen from his phone. He was not accused of being behind the extortion attempt but rather of conspiring with the suspected blackmailers by putting pressure on Valbuena to pay them off. The 34-year-old footballer had been set to appeal on June 30-July 1 at the court in Versailles, outside Paris. His former lawyer, Antoine Vey, had said Benzema would explain himself in person at the appeal trial. Also Read: 'Very happy to be at Manchester United' - Cristiano Ronaldo ends speculations on future In its November judgment, the Versailles criminal court ruled that Benzema had “implicated himself personally, through subterfuge and lies, to convince his teammate to submit to the blackmail". It added he had shown “no kindness towards Valbuena", as he had claimed, but “just the opposite" and had even appeared to take pleasure in his fellow player’s plight. The affair rocked the French national team and led to the Madrid star being cast out of the side for five-and-a-half years before making a surprise return to “Les Bleus" in 2021 in time for the European championship. Benzema, who has always maintained his innocence, has on several occasions expressed his desire to turn the page on the affair as soon as possible. Also Read: Real Madrid demand answers after UCL final marred by crowd trouble News of the star striker’s announcement that he was dropping his appeal came just hours after he scored a brilliant opening goal in France’s UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark in Paris. The Danes, however, recovered to win 2-1 after substitute Andreas Cornelius scored twice. Benzema is a favourite for the Ballon d’Or after helping Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final in Paris last weekend

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema drops appeal over 'sex tape' sentence

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed he is very much happy at Manchester United and has, thus, ended all speculations regarding his future with the Old Trafford club by confirming he is sure to stay. The 37-year-old stressed that he is focused on guiding the Red Devils to championship titles in the upcoming seasons.

Rumors were flowing from all corners that&nbsp;Ronaldo, who&nbsp;shone in his comeback season&nbsp;for Manchester United, was set to leave the club after their poor season in 2021/22 edition.&nbsp;United finished sixth in the EPL season and also failed to qualify for the Champions League, which was one of Ronaldo's primary motives when he made the switch from Juventus to Manchester last year.

While the Portugal captain had inked a two-year deal with the Old Trafford club at the time of rejoining, Bayern Munich were among the many clubs who were rumoured destination for the superstar striker. Nonetheless, Ronaldo's stay will surely be a huge sigh of relief for the Man United fans as the club is aiming for a revamp under new manager&nbsp;Erik ten Hag.

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"I was happy to be back in a club that really raised my career so it was unbelievable, the feeling when I came back again," Ronaldo said. "I was and still am very happy to be here," Ronaldo told Manchester United in an interview on Friday (June 03).

"The most important thing for me is to try to win the games and try to win some championship... but I believe that Manchester will be back where they belong. Sometimes it takes time, but I still believe," he added.

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Man United have already seen the departures of&nbsp;several star players recently, such as veteran goalkeeper Lee Grant, Paul Pogna, Jaun Mata.&nbsp;

Ronaldo, who&nbsp;scored 24 goals in all competition for United on his comeback, will look to guide a new-look Man United line-up to the championship title in the upcoming seasons.

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed he is very much happy at Manchester United and has, thus, ended all speculations regarding his future with the Old Trafford club by confirming he is sure to stay.

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed he is very much happy at Manchester United and has, thus, ended all speculations regarding his future with the Old Trafford club by confirming he is sure to stay. The 37-year-old stressed that he is focused on guiding the Red Devils to championship titles in the upcoming seasons. Rumors were flowing from all corners that Ronaldo, who shone in his comeback season for Manchester United, was set to leave the club after their poor season in 2021/22 edition. United finished sixth in the EPL season and also failed to qualify for the Champions League, which was one of Ronaldo's primary motives when he made the switch from Juventus to Manchester last year. While the Portugal captain had inked a two-year deal with the Old Trafford club at the time of rejoining, Bayern Munich were among the many clubs who were rumoured destination for the superstar striker. Nonetheless, Ronaldo's stay will surely be a huge sigh of relief for the Man United fans as the club is aiming for a revamp under new manager Erik ten Hag. ALSO READ | LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion "I was happy to be back in a club that really raised my career so it was unbelievable, the feeling when I came back again," Ronaldo said. "I was and still am very happy to be here," Ronaldo told Manchester United in an interview on Friday (June 03). "The most important thing for me is to try to win the games and try to win some championship... but I believe that Manchester will be back where they belong. Sometimes it takes time, but I still believe," he added. ALSO READ | Real Madrid demand answers after UCL final marred by crowd trouble Man United have already seen the departures of several star players recently, such as veteran goalkeeper Lee Grant, Paul Pogna, Jaun Mata. Ronaldo, who scored 24 goals in all competition for United on his comeback, will look to guide a new-look Man United line-up to the championship title in the upcoming seasons.

'Very happy to be at Manchester United' - Cristiano Ronaldo ends speculations on future with Red Devils

Real Madrid have demanded answers from organisers over measures taken to protect supporters at last weekend`s Champions League soccer final against Liverpool in Paris, which was marred by crowd trouble. 
The match, which Real won 1-0, was delayed by more than 30 minutes after officers forcefully held back people trying to enter the Stade de France.

Riot police sprayed tear gas on fans, including women and children. France`s Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that much of the blame lay with Liverpool fans and that 30,000-40,000 arrived without valid tickets, which led to a crowd crush at the stadium and people trying to force their way in. 
Darmanin`s version of events has been challenged by Liverpool fans who attended and say the vast majority of their supporters were well-behaved but were treated in a heavy-handed manner by French riot police.

Darmanin has acknowledged police were caught off-guard by several hundred local "delinquents" who turned up to cause trouble. "We want to know what were the reasons that motivated that designation of the venue for the final and what criteria were taken into consideration taking into account what was experienced that day," the LaLiga club said in a statement.

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"We also ask for answers and explanations to determine who were those responsible for leaving the fans unattended and defenseless. Supporters whose general behaviour was exemplary at all times. "As clearly seen in the revealing images provided by the media, many of the fans were assaulted, harassed, mugged and robbed with violence."

The club added that their fans "deserved" a response. Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan reiterated a call for an investigation into the incidents on Thursday, adding that both Liverpool and Real fans had suffered. 
European soccer governing body UEFA has commissioned an independent inquiry into the incident, while French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera said on Monday that they would produce a report within 10 days.

Real Madrid have demanded answers from organisers over measures taken to protect supporters at last weekend`s Champions League soccer final against Liverpool in Paris, which was marred by crowd trouble.

Real Madrid have demanded answers from organisers over measures taken to protect supporters at last weekend`s Champions League soccer final against Liverpool in Paris, which was marred by crowd trouble. The match, which Real won 1-0, was delayed by more than 30 minutes after officers forcefully held back people trying to enter the Stade de France. Riot police sprayed tear gas on fans, including women and children. France`s Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that much of the blame lay with Liverpool fans and that 30,000-40,000 arrived without valid tickets, which led to a crowd crush at the stadium and people trying to force their way in. Darmanin`s version of events has been challenged by Liverpool fans who attended and say the vast majority of their supporters were well-behaved but were treated in a heavy-handed manner by French riot police. Darmanin has acknowledged police were caught off-guard by several hundred local "delinquents" who turned up to cause trouble. "We want to know what were the reasons that motivated that designation of the venue for the final and what criteria were taken into consideration taking into account what was experienced that day," the LaLiga club said in a statement. ALSO READ | Neymar closes in on Pele's record as Brazil send World Cup warning with dominant win over South Korea "We also ask for answers and explanations to determine who were those responsible for leaving the fans unattended and defenseless. Supporters whose general behaviour was exemplary at all times. "As clearly seen in the revealing images provided by the media, many of the fans were assaulted, harassed, mugged and robbed with violence." The club added that their fans "deserved" a response. Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan reiterated a call for an investigation into the incidents on Thursday, adding that both Liverpool and Real fans had suffered. European soccer governing body UEFA has commissioned an independent inquiry into the incident, while French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera said on Monday that they would produce a report within 10 days.

Real Madrid demand answers after UCL final marred by crowd trouble

Portugal striker Ricardo Horta grabbed a late equaliser to earn his side a 1-1 draw with Spain in their Nations League opener at Estadio Benito Villamarin on Thursday. Alvaro Morata had given Spain the lead but Horta`s goal ensured the great rivals drew for the fourth time in a row. Portugal have not won a competitive game against Spain since 2004 and have never beaten them on Spanish soil. "It tastes good because Spain is strong and we were playing away. It was a good result for Portugal," midfielder Bernardo Silva said. "We already knew them very well, but it`s tough to play against them."

Spain made a lively start in the League A Group Two match when midfielder Gavi had a chance from outside the box in the third minute but his effort was blocked. Portugal defender Pepe did well to stop midfielder Carlos Soler who was through on goal after receiving a precise low pass.

Morata put Spain ahead from close range following a fine passing movement involving midfielders Gavi and Pablo Sarabia in the 25th minute. "We didn`t finish it off, but we played a good game," Morata said. "We`ll see each other again. Soccer is like that, we have to look ahead."

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The 29-year-old, hoping to play his first World Cup this year, is now three goals away from Raul`s national squad record of 61 across all age categories. "He`s not a player with stratospheric numbers, but everything Morata gives us in attack and defence," Spain coach Luis Enrique said. "It was a match similar to the previous ones. We could have won, but we could also have lost."

Portugal had opportunities to equalise through forward Rafael Leao and striker Andre Silva before halftime but both narrowly missed the target. Fernando Santos` side were once more close to levelling just before the hour mark after Leao received a pass from Silva and defender Diego Llorente failed to block his strike, but goalkeeper Unai Simon stretched to deny him.

Morata, meanwhile, had another good chance which went just wide of left post in the 64th minute before he was substituted. Substitute Horta equalised for Portugal eight minutes from time, leaving the Spanish defence behind as he latched on to a precise cross from defender Joao Cancelo inside the area and placed a shot into the middle of Simon`s goal.

Fans of both sides were able to enjoy a lively game which had caused the Spanish national team`s website to crash when tickets went on sale last week. The last positive result in the fixture was Spain`s victory on penalties at the 2012 European Championship and their last two friendly meetings finished goalless.

Both sides play three more Nations League games in the next 10 days. Spain travel to Switzerland between two matches against the Czech Republic while Portugal host the Czechs and face Switzerland twice. 
Spain and Portugal will meet again on Sept. 27, in their last group fixture.

Portugal striker Ricardo Horta grabbed a late equaliser to earn his side a 1-1 draw with Spain in their Nations League opener at Estadio Benito Villamarin on Thursday.

Portugal striker Ricardo Horta grabbed a late equaliser to earn his side a 1-1 draw with Spain in their Nations League opener at Estadio Benito Villamarin on Thursday. Alvaro Morata had given Spain the lead but Horta`s goal ensured the great rivals drew for the fourth time in a row. Portugal have not won a competitive game against Spain since 2004 and have never beaten them on Spanish soil. "It tastes good because Spain is strong and we were playing away. It was a good result for Portugal," midfielder Bernardo Silva said. "We already knew them very well, but it`s tough to play against them." Spain made a lively start in the League A Group Two match when midfielder Gavi had a chance from outside the box in the third minute but his effort was blocked. Portugal defender Pepe did well to stop midfielder Carlos Soler who was through on goal after receiving a precise low pass. Morata put Spain ahead from close range following a fine passing movement involving midfielders Gavi and Pablo Sarabia in the 25th minute. "We didn`t finish it off, but we played a good game," Morata said. "We`ll see each other again. Soccer is like that, we have to look ahead." ALSO READ | Neymar closes in on Pele's record as Brazil send World Cup warning with dominant win over South Korea The 29-year-old, hoping to play his first World Cup this year, is now three goals away from Raul`s national squad record of 61 across all age categories. "He`s not a player with stratospheric numbers, but everything Morata gives us in attack and defence," Spain coach Luis Enrique said. "It was a match similar to the previous ones. We could have won, but we could also have lost." Portugal had opportunities to equalise through forward Rafael Leao and striker Andre Silva before halftime but both narrowly missed the target. Fernando Santos` side were once more close to levelling just before the hour mark after Leao received a pass from Silva and defender Diego Llorente failed to block his strike, but goalkeeper Unai Simon stretched to deny him. Morata, meanwhile, had another good chance which went just wide of left post in the 64th minute before he was substituted. Substitute Horta equalised for Portugal eight minutes from time, leaving the Spanish defence behind as he latched on to a precise cross from defender Joao Cancelo inside the area and placed a shot into the middle of Simon`s goal. Fans of both sides were able to enjoy a lively game which had caused the Spanish national team`s website to crash when tickets went on sale last week. The last positive result in the fixture was Spain`s victory on penalties at the 2012 European Championship and their last two friendly meetings finished goalless. Both sides play three more Nations League games in the next 10 days. Spain travel to Switzerland between two matches against the Czech Republic while Portugal host the Czechs and face Switzerland twice. Spain and Portugal will meet again on Sept. 27, in their last group fixture.

Spain, Portugal share spoils in their UEFA Nations League opener

Neymar scored a pair of penalties to move to within four goals of Pele at the top of the country`s all-time scoring list as Brazil cruised to a 5-1 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Thursday.

The Paris St Germain striker netted either side of halftime to move onto 73 goals in 118 appearances for his country and close in on the three-time World Cup winner`s record in a comfortable win for Tite`s side. Richarlison gave Brazil the lead in the seventh minute and, although Hwang Ui-jo levelled for Korea just after the half-hour mark, it was the visitors who always looked more likely to prevail.

Neymar netted from the spot to put his side back in front three minutes before halftime and he was on hand with another penalty in the 57th minute before late goals from Philippe Coutinho and Gabriel Jesus put the seal on a comprehensive win. Billed in some quarters as a battle between Neymar and South Korea`s Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min, it was Brazilian and his team mates who dominated in an often one-sided contest.

The South Americans took the lead early when Alex Sandro stormed into the penalty area and cut back to Fred, whose attempt was redirected past Kim Seung-gyu by Richarlison from close range. Brazil had already seen Thiago Silva`s header ruled out for offside while Raphinha and Dani Alves also went close before the Koreans scored against the run of play in the 31st minute.

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Receiving possession with his back to goal, Hwang used all his upperbody strength to hold off Silva before turning to fire his right foot shot into the far corner. The Brazilians, though, were back in front in the 42nd minute when referee Ryuji Sato awarded a penalty following a VAR review as Lee Yong upended Sandro and Neymar coolly slotted in.

He was even more composed when he rolled his second spot kick of the game home three minutes before the hour mark after Sandro was again brought down in the box, this time by Kim Young-gwon. Coutinho added the fourth with 10 minutes remaining and Jesus scored a fifth three minutes into injury time when he sprinted through the Korea defence to score low into the corner.

Neymar scored a pair of penalties to move to within four goals of Pele at the top of the country`s all-time scoring list as Brazil cruised to a 5-1 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Thursday.

Neymar scored a pair of penalties to move to within four goals of Pele at the top of the country`s all-time scoring list as Brazil cruised to a 5-1 win over fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Thursday. The Paris St Germain striker netted either side of halftime to move onto 73 goals in 118 appearances for his country and close in on the three-time World Cup winner`s record in a comfortable win for Tite`s side. Richarlison gave Brazil the lead in the seventh minute and, although Hwang Ui-jo levelled for Korea just after the half-hour mark, it was the visitors who always looked more likely to prevail. Neymar netted from the spot to put his side back in front three minutes before halftime and he was on hand with another penalty in the 57th minute before late goals from Philippe Coutinho and Gabriel Jesus put the seal on a comprehensive win. Billed in some quarters as a battle between Neymar and South Korea`s Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min, it was Brazilian and his team mates who dominated in an often one-sided contest. The South Americans took the lead early when Alex Sandro stormed into the penalty area and cut back to Fred, whose attempt was redirected past Kim Seung-gyu by Richarlison from close range. Brazil had already seen Thiago Silva`s header ruled out for offside while Raphinha and Dani Alves also went close before the Koreans scored against the run of play in the 31st minute. ALSO READ | LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion Receiving possession with his back to goal, Hwang used all his upperbody strength to hold off Silva before turning to fire his right foot shot into the far corner. The Brazilians, though, were back in front in the 42nd minute when referee Ryuji Sato awarded a penalty following a VAR review as Lee Yong upended Sandro and Neymar coolly slotted in. He was even more composed when he rolled his second spot kick of the game home three minutes before the hour mark after Sandro was again brought down in the box, this time by Kim Young-gwon. Coutinho added the fourth with 10 minutes remaining and Jesus scored a fifth three minutes into injury time when he sprinted through the Korea defence to score low into the corner.

Neymar closes in on Pele's record as Brazil send World Cup warning with dominant win over South Korea

Scottish referee Craig Napier came out as gay on Thursday, becoming the first openly gay figure in the Scottish game since late Hearts forward Justin Fashanu in the mid-1990s. The Category One official follows Blackpool`s Jake Daniels in coming out after the 17-year-old revealed his sexuality last month.

Napier, 32, said he was inspired by the youngster and felt the need to "change the climate" and remove the stigma and fear that others in a similar position may feel. "It`s something I`ve obviously lived with for a long time. It`s been a difficult journey... it`s really important that people like me are willing to sit here and do this," he said in video posted by the Scottish Football Association.

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"I don`t think this needs to be a news story but I think at the moment, it really does because we need to see the climate change so that people do feel that they can be their true self." Daniels became the first active male British professional soccer player to come out as gay since former Norwich City and Nottingham Forest forward Fashanu in 1990.

Lower-league referee Lloyd Wilson also came out as gay following Napier`s announcement. 
"A journey of maybe 17 years of living a life that I didn`t want to live, living a lie... and probably dictated and directed in many ways by football," Wilson said in a video on mental health charity Back Onside`s YouTube channel.

Scottish referee Craig Napier came out as gay on Thursday, becoming the first openly gay figure in the Scottish game since late Hearts forward Justin Fashanu in the mid-1990s.

Scottish referee Craig Napier came out as gay on Thursday, becoming the first openly gay figure in the Scottish game since late Hearts forward Justin Fashanu in the mid-1990s. The Category One official follows Blackpool`s Jake Daniels in coming out after the 17-year-old revealed his sexuality last month. Napier, 32, said he was inspired by the youngster and felt the need to "change the climate" and remove the stigma and fear that others in a similar position may feel. "It`s something I`ve obviously lived with for a long time. It`s been a difficult journey... it`s really important that people like me are willing to sit here and do this," he said in video posted by the Scottish Football Association. ALSO READ | Jake Daniels becomes UK's 1st active gay male professional footballer; reveals 'inspiration' "I don`t think this needs to be a news story but I think at the moment, it really does because we need to see the climate change so that people do feel that they can be their true self." Daniels became the first active male British professional soccer player to come out as gay since former Norwich City and Nottingham Forest forward Fashanu in 1990. Lower-league referee Lloyd Wilson also came out as gay following Napier`s announcement. "A journey of maybe 17 years of living a life that I didn`t want to live, living a lie... and probably dictated and directed in many ways by football," Wilson said in a video on mental health charity Back Onside`s YouTube channel.

Referee Craig Napier becomes first openly gay figure in Scottish game since late Justin Fashanu

Scotland fell short in their quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as goals from Andriy Yarmolenko, Roman Yaremchuk and Artem Dovbyk gave Ukraine the win in the Play-off semi-final clash at Hampden Park on Wednesday. With this win, Ukraine have set up the Play-off final against Wales. For Scotland, Callum McGregor`s second-half strike went in vain as they lost 3-1.

The anthems got proceedings underway at Hampden Park - as the Ukraine players each stood draped in their country`s flag for their anthem on an emotional night in their first competitive match since the ongoing conflict began in Ukraine in February. As the game got underway, it was the away side who created the first opening in the 8th minute as Viktor Tsyhankov latched onto a cut-back but his crisp first-time effort was tipped over by Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon.

The Scots grew into the game though and Hickey headed wide before Grant Hanley also missed with a header from a Robertson corner. Ukraine then almost took the lead in the 15th minute, but Gordon once again produced a brilliant save, this time down low to deny Andriy Yarmolenko. It was an open first half and the hosts were the next to pour forward, with Robertson seeing his shot blocked before John McGinn fired over. It was the away side who crafted the next opening in the 33rd minute though and this time Gordon could not repeat his heroics. The dangerous Yarmolenko made a great run to get on the end of a ball over the top, before taking a touch and cutely dinking the ball over the Scottish goalkeeper.

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Just that goal separated the sides at the break but it was soon to get worse for Scotland as the visitors doubled their lead on 49 minutes as Roman Yaremchuk rose to head in at the far post. Scotland attempted to rally and McGregor was inches away from pulling a goal back as he charged down a clearance, before substitute Ryan Christie produced a save from Heorhiy Bushchan with a low strike.McGinn then narrowly missed the target with a glorious-headed opportunity as the hosts began to pile on the pressure. It was Scotland`s best period of the game and Che Adams was next to come close with a low drive before McGinn`s follow-up was excellently blocked. The pressure soon told and it was McGregor who got the Scots on the scoresheet in the 79th minute.

Stuart Armstrong`s lofted cross was only parried by Bushchan and the midfielder followed up to strike on the half-volley, with hawk-eye ruling that the ball had just carried over the line after a touch from the Ukrainian goalkeeper. The home support roared on their side and they continued to press for an equaliser but Hanley`s missed header was the closest they came to a leveller. There was to be a cruel end for Scotland as Ukraine broke forward in the 95th minute and substitute Artem Dovbyk scored a third with the last kick of the game after a counterattack.

Scotland fell short in their quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as goals from Andriy Yarmolenko, Roman Yaremchuk and Artem Dovbyk gave Ukraine the win in the Play-off semi-final clash at Hampden Park on Wednesday.

Scotland fell short in their quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as goals from Andriy Yarmolenko, Roman Yaremchuk and Artem Dovbyk gave Ukraine the win in the Play-off semi-final clash at Hampden Park on Wednesday. With this win, Ukraine have set up the Play-off final against Wales. For Scotland, Callum McGregor`s second-half strike went in vain as they lost 3-1. The anthems got proceedings underway at Hampden Park - as the Ukraine players each stood draped in their country`s flag for their anthem on an emotional night in their first competitive match since the ongoing conflict began in Ukraine in February. As the game got underway, it was the away side who created the first opening in the 8th minute as Viktor Tsyhankov latched onto a cut-back but his crisp first-time effort was tipped over by Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon. The Scots grew into the game though and Hickey headed wide before Grant Hanley also missed with a header from a Robertson corner. Ukraine then almost took the lead in the 15th minute, but Gordon once again produced a brilliant save, this time down low to deny Andriy Yarmolenko. It was an open first half and the hosts were the next to pour forward, with Robertson seeing his shot blocked before John McGinn fired over. It was the away side who crafted the next opening in the 33rd minute though and this time Gordon could not repeat his heroics. The dangerous Yarmolenko made a great run to get on the end of a ball over the top, before taking a touch and cutely dinking the ball over the Scottish goalkeeper. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi stars in Argentina's 3-0 dominance over Italy to win Finalissima 2022 Just that goal separated the sides at the break but it was soon to get worse for Scotland as the visitors doubled their lead on 49 minutes as Roman Yaremchuk rose to head in at the far post. Scotland attempted to rally and McGregor was inches away from pulling a goal back as he charged down a clearance, before substitute Ryan Christie produced a save from Heorhiy Bushchan with a low strike.McGinn then narrowly missed the target with a glorious-headed opportunity as the hosts began to pile on the pressure. It was Scotland`s best period of the game and Che Adams was next to come close with a low drive before McGinn`s follow-up was excellently blocked. The pressure soon told and it was McGregor who got the Scots on the scoresheet in the 79th minute. Stuart Armstrong`s lofted cross was only parried by Bushchan and the midfielder followed up to strike on the half-volley, with hawk-eye ruling that the ball had just carried over the line after a touch from the Ukrainian goalkeeper. The home support roared on their side and they continued to press for an equaliser but Hanley`s missed header was the closest they came to a leveller. There was to be a cruel end for Scotland as Ukraine broke forward in the 95th minute and substitute Artem Dovbyk scored a third with the last kick of the game after a counterattack.

Ukraine defeat Scotland in first competitive match since war, keep World Cup dream alive

Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala struck as South American champions Argentina proved to be an irresistible force in the inaugural Finalissima against Italy here at iconic Wembley Stadium on Wednesday. Angel Di Maria tried to lob Gianluigi Donnarumma from halfway inside two minutes as the South American champions tugged the beard of their European counterparts, but it was discipline and superlative passing that left Argentina 2-0 up at the break.

Donnarumma barely had time to recover from denying Lionel Messi after a typically sparkly move when the Paris Saint-Germain man held off Giovanni Di Lorenzo in the box and squared for Lautaro Martinez to flick the ball in from close range. With Lionel Scaloni`s side asking all the questions, Italy might have been relieved to head in at the break just 1-0 down, yet they were caught on the hop in added time. Goalscorer turned provider as Lautaro Martinez took up possession in midfield and sent an elegantly weighted low ball forward for Di Maria, who sped in to clip over the despairing Donnarumma. Roberto Mancini made three changes at the break, notably taking off Giorgio Chiellini in his final international game, but matters did not improve.

Not long after preventing a Leonardo Bonucci own goal, Donnarumma had to pull off a magnificent save to hook a Di Maria shot out from under his crossbar, and he was lucky to be in the right place when the Paris forward met a corner with a bullet-hard volley from outside the box.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-vs-italy-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-finalissima-2022-match-in-india-484236">Argentina vs Italy live streaming: When and where to watch Finalissima 2022 match in India?</a>

Italy came from behind to win UEFA EURO 2020 at this venue, but there was little suggestion that a comeback was possible this time as chances kept piling up at the other end. With Giovani Lo Celso hitting the side netting and Messi denied three times by Donnarumma, the scoreline barely reflected the extent of Argentina`s dominance - until Paulo Dybala popped up to finish after Messi had been tackled on the edge of the Italy box. Player of the match Lionel Messi won a trophy at Wembley for the second time in his career; his Barcelona side won 3-1 against Manchester United at the same venue in the 2011 UEFA Champions League final.

Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala struck as South American champions Argentina proved to be an irresistible force in the inaugural Finalissima against Italy here at iconic Wembley Stadium on Wednesday.

Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala struck as South American champions Argentina proved to be an irresistible force in the inaugural Finalissima against Italy here at iconic Wembley Stadium on Wednesday. Angel Di Maria tried to lob Gianluigi Donnarumma from halfway inside two minutes as the South American champions tugged the beard of their European counterparts, but it was discipline and superlative passing that left Argentina 2-0 up at the break. Donnarumma barely had time to recover from denying Lionel Messi after a typically sparkly move when the Paris Saint-Germain man held off Giovanni Di Lorenzo in the box and squared for Lautaro Martinez to flick the ball in from close range. With Lionel Scaloni`s side asking all the questions, Italy might have been relieved to head in at the break just 1-0 down, yet they were caught on the hop in added time. Goalscorer turned provider as Lautaro Martinez took up possession in midfield and sent an elegantly weighted low ball forward for Di Maria, who sped in to clip over the despairing Donnarumma. Roberto Mancini made three changes at the break, notably taking off Giorgio Chiellini in his final international game, but matters did not improve. Not long after preventing a Leonardo Bonucci own goal, Donnarumma had to pull off a magnificent save to hook a Di Maria shot out from under his crossbar, and he was lucky to be in the right place when the Paris forward met a corner with a bullet-hard volley from outside the box. ALSO READ | Argentina vs Italy live streaming: When and where to watch Finalissima 2022 match in India? Italy came from behind to win UEFA EURO 2020 at this venue, but there was little suggestion that a comeback was possible this time as chances kept piling up at the other end. With Giovani Lo Celso hitting the side netting and Messi denied three times by Donnarumma, the scoreline barely reflected the extent of Argentina`s dominance - until Paulo Dybala popped up to finish after Messi had been tackled on the edge of the Italy box. Player of the match Lionel Messi won a trophy at Wembley for the second time in his career; his Barcelona side won 3-1 against Manchester United at the same venue in the 2011 UEFA Champions League final.

Lionel Messi stars in Argentina's 3-0 dominance over Italy to win Finalissima 2022

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire had a disastrous season as the club struggled across competitions. United endured a turbulent season where they failed to make it to the knockout stage of the Champions League before finishing a disappointing sixth in the Premier League. It was yet another trophyless season for the Red Devils, who saw former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer getting sacked midway through the campaign before Ralf Rangnick took over in an interim role.

However, the results didn't improve for United even under Rangnick, who publicly criticised players and exposed the woes in the United dressing room while sending several ultimatums to the management and the owners about fixing the issues prevalent at the club.

Maguire found himself on the receiving end of dire criticism after an average campaign. While he was slammed on several occasions on social media and booed by fans on the pitch, the England defender said the 'line' was crossed when his family received a bomb threat for him not giving up United's captaincy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ucl-final-uefa-french-federation-estimate-2800-fake-tickets-scanned-in-marquee-clash-sources-483890">UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash</a>

Maguire alleged a bomb threat had been made to his family in April this year owing to his poor performances on the pitch. The England footballer said he is ready to face criticism which comes along with the pressure of playing for a club like United but said involving his family and issuing a bomb threat was crossing the line.

“Obviously I’m in a position where I’m going to be criticised, Manchester United paid a large sum of money for me, it is one of the most loved clubs in the world and also one of the most hated in the world as well," Maguire told reporters.

“We know we are under the most scrutiny. I totally accept criticism when we concede goals or make mistakes, I’m big enough to accept people getting on my back and saying I can improve. There is a line where we are human beings, I do have a family. People ask if it affects me. My mentality is that it doesn’t affect me too much but when it comes to bomb threats, it is more about family," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-chaos-timeline-uefa-launches-investigation-uk-pm-slams-french-officials-483835">Champions League final chaos timeline: UEFA launches investigation, UK PM slams French officials</a>

Maguire was also booed by a section of English fans after his poor performance in England's friendly against Ivory Coast at Wembley in March this year. The England centre-back said he was left shocked by the reception from the fans as he has enjoyed a great relationship with them since his debut.

“From my England debut, the England fans have been amazing with me, I have had some amazing times. I’ve been involved in some of the biggest games. I have been involved in the biggest games of our country’s recent history," said Maguire.

“The journey I have been on since my debut five years ago to now I have had amazing times with the fans, and I am not going to let the minority, I don’t know how many it was, 10-20 people doing that in the Ivory Coast game to affect my relationship with the England fans, no.

“I think I was more surprised rather than taking it all in, I was a bit shocked to be honest. Like I said, I've had such a good relationship with the England fans throughout my journey with the England team. I wouldn't say I was hurt and upset. Obviously, I know my family and my friends might have been affected by it but I was more surprised really," he added.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire had a disastrous season as the club struggled across competitions. United endured a turbulent season where they failed to make it to the knockout stage of the Champions League before finishing a disappointing sixth in the Premier League.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire had a disastrous season as the club struggled across competitions. United endured a turbulent season where they failed to make it to the knockout stage of the Champions League before finishing a disappointing sixth in the Premier League. It was yet another trophyless season for the Red Devils, who saw former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer getting sacked midway through the campaign before Ralf Rangnick took over in an interim role. However, the results didn't improve for United even under Rangnick, who publicly criticised players and exposed the woes in the United dressing room while sending several ultimatums to the management and the owners about fixing the issues prevalent at the club. Maguire found himself on the receiving end of dire criticism after an average campaign. While he was slammed on several occasions on social media and booed by fans on the pitch, the England defender said the 'line' was crossed when his family received a bomb threat for him not giving up United's captaincy. Also Read: UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash Maguire alleged a bomb threat had been made to his family in April this year owing to his poor performances on the pitch. The England footballer said he is ready to face criticism which comes along with the pressure of playing for a club like United but said involving his family and issuing a bomb threat was crossing the line. “Obviously I’m in a position where I’m going to be criticised, Manchester United paid a large sum of money for me, it is one of the most loved clubs in the world and also one of the most hated in the world as well," Maguire told reporters. “We know we are under the most scrutiny. I totally accept criticism when we concede goals or make mistakes, I’m big enough to accept people getting on my back and saying I can improve. There is a line where we are human beings, I do have a family. People ask if it affects me. My mentality is that it doesn’t affect me too much but when it comes to bomb threats, it is more about family," he added. Also Read: Champions League final chaos timeline: UEFA launches investigation, UK PM slams French officials Maguire was also booed by a section of English fans after his poor performance in England's friendly against Ivory Coast at Wembley in March this year. The England centre-back said he was left shocked by the reception from the fans as he has enjoyed a great relationship with them since his debut. “From my England debut, the England fans have been amazing with me, I have had some amazing times. I’ve been involved in some of the biggest games. I have been involved in the biggest games of our country’s recent history," said Maguire. “The journey I have been on since my debut five years ago to now I have had amazing times with the fans, and I am not going to let the minority, I don’t know how many it was, 10-20 people doing that in the Ivory Coast game to affect my relationship with the England fans, no. “I think I was more surprised rather than taking it all in, I was a bit shocked to be honest. Like I said, I've had such a good relationship with the England fans throughout my journey with the England team. I wouldn't say I was hurt and upset. Obviously, I know my family and my friends might have been affected by it but I was more surprised really," he added.

'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat

The football fans have lots to look forward to as the Finalissima 2022 is set to take place between&nbsp;UEFA Euro 2020 champions Italy and Copa America holders Argentina, at the iconic&nbsp;Wembley Stadium on Thursday (June 02). This will be the third time that the Euro champions and Copa America winners will lock horns with each other after&nbsp;France beat Uruguay (2-0), in 1985, and Argentina won the second edition, beating Denmark in penalties.&nbsp;

The high-profile clash was confirmed as a spectacle in London after the UEFA and CONMEBOL extended the Memorandum of Understanding in mid-December last year. Thus, the Lionel Messi-led Argentina, who beat Brazil to win last year's Copa America, and&nbsp;Azzurri -- who beat England in Euro 2020 final -- will battle for supremacy on Thursday.

All you need to know about 2022 Finalissima clash between Argentina and Italy:

Where is the Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match&nbsp;being held?

The&nbsp;Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match will be held&nbsp;at the iconic&nbsp;London’s Wembley Stadium, England.

What time will the Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match kick off?

The Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina and Italy&nbsp;match&nbsp;is scheduled to kick off&nbsp;at 12:15 AM IST on Thursday (June 2).

Where to watch the live streaming of the&nbsp;Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match?

The Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match will be available on Sony Liv App and Jio TV.

How to watch Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina and Italy&nbsp;match live on television?

The Finalissima 2022 between&nbsp;Argentina vs Italy&nbsp;match&nbsp;will be broadcast&nbsp;on SONY TEN 1 &amp; 2 (English), SONY TEN 3 (Hindi), and SONY TEN 4 (Tamil and Telugu).

The football fans have lots to look forward to as the Finalissima 2022 is set to take place between UEFA Euro 2020 champions Italy and Copa America holders Argentina, at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Thursday (June 02).

The football fans have lots to look forward to as the Finalissima 2022 is set to take place between UEFA Euro 2020 champions Italy and Copa America holders Argentina, at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Thursday (June 02). This will be the third time that the Euro champions and Copa America winners will lock horns with each other after France beat Uruguay (2-0), in 1985, and Argentina won the second edition, beating Denmark in penalties. The high-profile clash was confirmed as a spectacle in London after the UEFA and CONMEBOL extended the Memorandum of Understanding in mid-December last year. Thus, the Lionel Messi-led Argentina, who beat Brazil to win last year's Copa America, and Azzurri -- who beat England in Euro 2020 final -- will battle for supremacy on Thursday. All you need to know about 2022 Finalissima clash between Argentina and Italy: Where is the Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match being held? The Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match will be held at the iconic London’s Wembley Stadium, England. What time will the Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match kick off? The Finalissima 2022 between Argentina and Italy match is scheduled to kick off at 12:15 AM IST on Thursday (June 2). Where to watch the live streaming of the Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match? The Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match will be available on Sony Liv App and Jio TV. How to watch Finalissima 2022 between Argentina and Italy match live on television? The Finalissima 2022 between Argentina vs Italy match will be broadcast on SONY TEN 1 & 2 (English), SONY TEN 3 (Hindi), and SONY TEN 4 (Tamil and Telugu).

Argentina vs Italy live streaming: When and where to watch Finalissima 2022 match in India?

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see&nbsp;many&nbsp;European&nbsp;giants such as Spain, Germany, England,&nbsp;Portugal, defending champions France, etc. locking horns with each other.

For the unversed, all the teams have been divided into four Leagues - A, B, C and D. The League A features four groups of an equal number of&nbsp;teams (4) each while the same format is&nbsp;in the League B and C as well. However, League D comprises only two groups.

It is important to note that&nbsp;Russia, suspended by UEFA following the Ukraine invasion early this year, have been placed bottom of Group B2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ucl-final-uefa-french-federation-estimate-2800-fake-tickets-scanned-in-marquee-clash-sources-483890">UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash - Sources</a>

UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Leagues and Groups:

League A

<ul>
	<li>Group A1: France, Denmark, Croatia, Austria</li>
	<li>Group A2: Spain, Switzerland,&nbsp;Portugal, Czech Republic</li>
	<li>Group A3: Italy, Germany, England, Hungary</li>
	<li>Group A4: Belgium, Poland, Netherlands, Wales</li>
</ul>

League B

<ul>
	<li>Group B1: Ukraine, Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Armenia</li>
	<li>Group B2: Iceland, Russia*, Israel, Albania</li>
	<li>Group B3: Finland, Romania, Montenegro,&nbsp;Bosnia and Herzegovina,</li>
	<li>Group B4: Sweden, Serbia, Norway, Slovenia</li>
</ul>

League C

<ul>
	<li>Group C1: Turkey, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Faroe Islands</li>
	<li>Group C2: Greece, Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Cyprus</li>
	<li>Group C3: Slovakia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan</li>
	<li>Group C4: North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Gibraltar</li>
</ul>

League D

<ul>
	<li>Group D1: Liechtenstein, Moldova, Latvia,&nbsp;Andorra</li>
	<li>Group D2: Malta, San Marino,Estonia</li>
</ul>

UEFA Nations League Schedule:

The group stage&nbsp;will commence on June 01 and will last till September 27. Meanwhile, the semi-finals and final will take place&nbsp;in June 2023.

Matchdays 1 &amp; 2: 1–8 June 2022 
Matchdays 3 &amp; 4: 9–14 June 2022 
Matchdays 5 &amp; 6: 22–27 September 2022 
Finals draw: To be confirmed... 
Semi-finals: 14 &amp; 15 June 2023 
Final &amp; 3rd place match: 18 June 2023

Play-outs: 21–23 &amp; 24–26 March 2024

UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Live Streaming and Telecast:

The Nations League 2022-23&nbsp;will be broadcast&nbsp;live on the Sony Sports Network. The live streaming&nbsp;of the mega event will be&nbsp;on the Sony Liv app.

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see many European giants such as Spain, Germany, England, Portugal, defending champions France, etc.

The UEFA Nations League 2022-23 edition is set to kick off on June 01, which will see many European giants such as Spain, Germany, England, Portugal, defending champions France, etc. locking horns with each other. For the unversed, all the teams have been divided into four Leagues - A, B, C and D. The League A features four groups of an equal number of teams (4) each while the same format is in the League B and C as well. However, League D comprises only two groups. It is important to note that Russia, suspended by UEFA following the Ukraine invasion early this year, have been placed bottom of Group B2. ALSO READ | UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash - Sources UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Leagues and Groups: League A Group A1: France, Denmark, Croatia, Austria Group A2: Spain, Switzerland, Portugal, Czech Republic Group A3: Italy, Germany, England, Hungary Group A4: Belgium, Poland, Netherlands, Wales League B Group B1: Ukraine, Scotland, Republic of Ireland, Armenia Group B2: Iceland, Russia*, Israel, Albania Group B3: Finland, Romania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Group B4: Sweden, Serbia, Norway, Slovenia League C Group C1: Turkey, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Faroe Islands Group C2: Greece, Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Cyprus Group C3: Slovakia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan Group C4: North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Gibraltar League D Group D1: Liechtenstein, Moldova, Latvia, Andorra Group D2: Malta, San Marino,Estonia UEFA Nations League Schedule: The group stage will commence on June 01 and will last till September 27. Meanwhile, the semi-finals and final will take place in June 2023. Matchdays 1 & 2: 1–8 June 2022 Matchdays 3 & 4: 9–14 June 2022 Matchdays 5 & 6: 22–27 September 2022 Finals draw: To be confirmed... Semi-finals: 14 & 15 June 2023 Final & 3rd place match: 18 June 2023 Play-outs: 21–23 & 24–26 March 2024 UEFA Nations League 2022-23 Live Streaming and Telecast: The Nations League 2022-23 will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network. The live streaming of the mega event will be on the Sony Liv app.

UEFA Nations League 2022-23: Everything you need to know about groups, teams, telecast, live Streaming

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following&nbsp;and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of. While athletes are loved and often lauded by their fans for their on-field heroics, things are not the same always. There are instances when fans turn on their own teams and players to criticise their performances.

While constructive criticism is welcomed by most athletes, who understand the pressure that comes with representing big teams in their respective sports, there are instances when fans cross the line on social media while lashing out at an individual. Some resort to abuse and racist messages which are common across all sports.

Recently a found that professional basketball and football players have to endure 'horrific work-related online abuse'. The players are subjected to abuse and also targeted over their race and religion. The study was conducted by FIFPRO, the union representing footballers across the world and the unions representing NBA and WNBA.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-ham-footballer-kurt-zouma-given-180-hours-of-community-service-for-kicking-his-cat-484143">West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat</a>

The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyse the social media accounts of 80 footballers and 80 basketball players with the athletes accounting for a total of 200 million followers on social media. It was found that during the period of May to September 2021, the study flagged 1,558 abusive posts sent from 1,455 different accounts to the players across football leagues and the NBA.

The players were targeted by the fans for changing clubs, due to rivalries between teams, and their own poor performances on the field among others. 85% of abuse directed towards the football players was homophobic or racist in nature while 74% of the abuse thrown at basketball players was homophobic or racist.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-line-i-have-a-family-manchester-united-star-harry-maguire-breaks-silence-on-bomb-threat-484024">'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat</a>

“This report highlights that some of the most abused players were targeted as they changed clubs whilst others saw abuse in relation to on-field issues,“ said David Aganzo, president of FIFPRO.

“While the analysts also recognized players being targeted due to club rivalries or perceptions of their character, we must seek better cooperation amongst all stakeholders in the game to better protect those people that create the game in the first place," he added.

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of.

Most prominent athletes across sporting disciplines enjoy huge social media following and are immensely popular across the globe. From football to basketball and cricket, the prominent names in every sport have massive fan bases to boast of. While athletes are loved and often lauded by their fans for their on-field heroics, things are not the same always. There are instances when fans turn on their own teams and players to criticise their performances. While constructive criticism is welcomed by most athletes, who understand the pressure that comes with representing big teams in their respective sports, there are instances when fans cross the line on social media while lashing out at an individual. Some resort to abuse and racist messages which are common across all sports. Recently a found that professional basketball and football players have to endure 'horrific work-related online abuse'. The players are subjected to abuse and also targeted over their race and religion. The study was conducted by FIFPRO, the union representing footballers across the world and the unions representing NBA and WNBA. Also Read: West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat The researchers used artificial intelligence to analyse the social media accounts of 80 footballers and 80 basketball players with the athletes accounting for a total of 200 million followers on social media. It was found that during the period of May to September 2021, the study flagged 1,558 abusive posts sent from 1,455 different accounts to the players across football leagues and the NBA. The players were targeted by the fans for changing clubs, due to rivalries between teams, and their own poor performances on the field among others. 85% of abuse directed towards the football players was homophobic or racist in nature while 74% of the abuse thrown at basketball players was homophobic or racist. Also Read: 'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat “This report highlights that some of the most abused players were targeted as they changed clubs whilst others saw abuse in relation to on-field issues,“ said David Aganzo, president of FIFPRO. “While the analysts also recognized players being targeted due to club rivalries or perceptions of their character, we must seek better cooperation amongst all stakeholders in the game to better protect those people that create the game in the first place," he added.

Professional football and basketball players suffer horrific onine abuse, finds new study

West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma has been ordered to do 180 hours of community service and banned from keeping cats for five years after pleading guilty to kicking and slapping his pet cat, a London court ruled on Wednesday.

Zouma admitted two offences under the Animal Welfare Act at the Thames Magistrates` Court last month after a viral video, filmed by his brother Yoan and posted on social media in February, showed him dropping one of his cats and kicking it across the floor.

The Frenchman`s brother was sentenced to 140 hours of community service.

"Both of you took part in this disgraceful and reprehensible act with this pet cat," said district judge Susan Holdham.

"The cat looked up to you to care for its needs. On that date in February you did not provide for its needs." 
Zouma`s two Bengal cats have since been placed under the care of animal charity RSPCA.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-line-i-have-a-family-manchester-united-star-harry-maguire-breaks-silence-on-bomb-threat-484024">'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat</a>

The 27-year-old, who was fined by West Ham for the incident, lost his sponsorship deal with sportswear brand Adidas and was also jeered by fans during a Premier League game against Watford in February.

Zouma, however, continued to enjoy the support of manager David Moyes and made 33 appearances across competitions as West Ham finished seventh in the league and reached the semi-finals of the Europa League.

West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma has been ordered to do 180 hours of community service and banned from keeping cats for five years after pleading guilty to kicking and slapping his pet cat, a London court ruled on Wednesday.

West Ham United defender Kurt Zouma has been ordered to do 180 hours of community service and banned from keeping cats for five years after pleading guilty to kicking and slapping his pet cat, a London court ruled on Wednesday. Zouma admitted two offences under the Animal Welfare Act at the Thames Magistrates` Court last month after a viral video, filmed by his brother Yoan and posted on social media in February, showed him dropping one of his cats and kicking it across the floor. The Frenchman`s brother was sentenced to 140 hours of community service. "Both of you took part in this disgraceful and reprehensible act with this pet cat," said district judge Susan Holdham. "The cat looked up to you to care for its needs. On that date in February you did not provide for its needs." Zouma`s two Bengal cats have since been placed under the care of animal charity RSPCA. Also Read: 'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat The 27-year-old, who was fined by West Ham for the incident, lost his sponsorship deal with sportswear brand Adidas and was also jeered by fans during a Premier League game against Watford in February. Zouma, however, continued to enjoy the support of manager David Moyes and made 33 appearances across competitions as West Ham finished seventh in the league and reached the semi-finals of the Europa League.

West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma given 180 hours of community service for kicking his cat

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again.

Under the terms of the deal, current owners Elliott, the U.S. private equity group, will retain a minority investment and seats on the board, the club said on Wednesday.

Milan have just won the Italian Serie A league title for the first time in 11 years.

"We... are excited to play a role in the club`s next chapter as it returns to its rightful place at the very top of Italian, European and world football," RedBird founder and managing partner Gerry Cardinale said in a statement.

RedBird is already an investor in Fenway Sports Group, the owner of Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox baseball team. RedBird also has a controlling stake in French soccer club Toulouse.

"RedBird`s investment philosophy and track record in team ownership has shown that football clubs can be successful on the pitch and sustainable off it," Cardinale added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-line-i-have-a-family-manchester-united-star-harry-maguire-breaks-silence-on-bomb-threat-484024">'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat</a>

Italian soccer clubs have recently become a popular target for overseas investors, attracted by cheaper valuations compared with those of England`s Premier League and rivals in major European leagues.

Milan were a dominant force in European soccer under the previous ownership of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi but won the Champions League for the last time in 2007.

The transition to new ownership will take place over the summer, with an expected closing of the deal no later than September, the club statement added.

Milan, European Cup winners seven times, will be looking to strengthen their ranks during the close season to help defend their Italian league title and mount a challenge in the Champions League.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-striker-karim-benzema-named-champions-league-player-of-the-season-483869">Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season</a>

Elliott took over the club in 2018 when Chinese businessman Li Yonghong failed to meet some obligations linked to a financing package for the purchase of the team from Berlusconi the year before.

Elliott said its continued involvement reflected its confidence in RedBird and added that the club leadership would remain in place.

Former Arsenal executive Ivan Gazidis is the club`s CEO while former player Paolo Maldini serves as technical director.&nbsp;

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again.

U.S. investment firm RedBird Capital Partners has agreed a 1.2 billion euro ($1.3 billion) deal to buy Italian soccer champions AC Milan and is aiming to challenge the elite of the European game again. Under the terms of the deal, current owners Elliott, the U.S. private equity group, will retain a minority investment and seats on the board, the club said on Wednesday. Milan have just won the Italian Serie A league title for the first time in 11 years. "We... are excited to play a role in the club`s next chapter as it returns to its rightful place at the very top of Italian, European and world football," RedBird founder and managing partner Gerry Cardinale said in a statement. RedBird is already an investor in Fenway Sports Group, the owner of Liverpool and the Boston Red Sox baseball team. RedBird also has a controlling stake in French soccer club Toulouse. "RedBird`s investment philosophy and track record in team ownership has shown that football clubs can be successful on the pitch and sustainable off it," Cardinale added. Also Read: 'There is a line, I have a family': Manchester United star Harry Maguire breaks silence on bomb threat Italian soccer clubs have recently become a popular target for overseas investors, attracted by cheaper valuations compared with those of England`s Premier League and rivals in major European leagues. Milan were a dominant force in European soccer under the previous ownership of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi but won the Champions League for the last time in 2007. The transition to new ownership will take place over the summer, with an expected closing of the deal no later than September, the club statement added. Milan, European Cup winners seven times, will be looking to strengthen their ranks during the close season to help defend their Italian league title and mount a challenge in the Champions League. Also Read: Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season Elliott took over the club in 2018 when Chinese businessman Li Yonghong failed to meet some obligations linked to a financing package for the purchase of the team from Berlusconi the year before. Elliott said its continued involvement reflected its confidence in RedBird and added that the club leadership would remain in place. Former Arsenal executive Ivan Gazidis is the club`s CEO while former player Paolo Maldini serves as technical director.

US investmet firm RedBird buys Italian football club AC Milan in $1.3 billion deal

UEFA and the French football federation estimate that 2,800 'fake tickets' were scanned at the Champions League final, a source said Tuesday. The two bodies gave that estimation at a crisis meeting on Monday at the French sports ministry, the source said.

That meeting was convened to examine what was behind the chaotic scenes that marred Saturday's Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid at the Stade de France in Paris, the Spanish side running out 1-0 winners.

The French government, which has faced a barrage of criticism over policing of the match which saw thousands of Liverpool fans with tickets struggle to enter the Stade de France, has blamed "massive" ticket fraud for the disturbances.

French security services had warned authorities of the risk of 50,000 fans without tickets or with fake ones two days before the final, according to a document seen by AFP Tuesday.

A note from the National Division of the Fight against Hooliganism (DNLH) on May 25 -- written with the input of intelligence services and seen by AFP -- warned of "around 50,000 English fans in the French capital who will not have tickets".

"Some of them will have fake tickets and will try to use them to access the stadium," said the note from the DNLH, a branch of the police, although it does not estimate how many.

"Others will try to enter the arena by deception, for example by using the uniforms of stewards, UEFA, cleaning or medical staff," added the note that was largely distributed to the police.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-striker-karim-benzema-named-champions-league-player-of-the-season-483869">Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season</a>

After the crisis meeting at the sports ministry on Monday, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said the root cause of the problems was "massive, industrial-scale and organised fraud in fake tickets".

Darmanin added there had been 30,000 to 40,000 Liverpool fans with fake tickets or without tickets outside the Stade de France.

Earlier on Monday Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera blamed Liverpool for leaving its supporters "on the loose", prompting the chairman of Liverpool Football Club to pen an angry letter demanding an apology for the "irresponsible, unprofessional, and wholly disrespectful" comments.

Some 22,000 tickets were officially allocated each to Real Madrid and Liverpool fans. A criminal investigation into the fake tickets has been launched in France.

The note also warned that "several hundred English fans will try to enter the stadium by forcing the turnstiles and the various access doors" and called for "the greatest vigilance" at the various checkpoints.

"If this event does not present particular risks in connection with violent supporters, disturbances to public order are to be feared, in particular due to the very large influx of supporters coming from all over Europe", the note said.

Saturday's scenes tarnished the image of the French capital, raising questions about its ability to host major sporting events as it gears up for the 2024 Olympics, as well as the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

UEFA, European football's governing body, announced Monday it was opening an "independent report" into the problems at the final that would "examine decision making, responsibility and behaviours of all entities involved".

UEFA and the French football federation estimate that 2,800 'fake tickets' were scanned at the Champions League final, a source said Tuesday. The two bodies gave that estimation at a crisis meeting on Monday at the French sports ministry, the source said.

UEFA and the French football federation estimate that 2,800 'fake tickets' were scanned at the Champions League final, a source said Tuesday. The two bodies gave that estimation at a crisis meeting on Monday at the French sports ministry, the source said. That meeting was convened to examine what was behind the chaotic scenes that marred Saturday's Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid at the Stade de France in Paris, the Spanish side running out 1-0 winners. The French government, which has faced a barrage of criticism over policing of the match which saw thousands of Liverpool fans with tickets struggle to enter the Stade de France, has blamed "massive" ticket fraud for the disturbances. French security services had warned authorities of the risk of 50,000 fans without tickets or with fake ones two days before the final, according to a document seen by AFP Tuesday. A note from the National Division of the Fight against Hooliganism (DNLH) on May 25 -- written with the input of intelligence services and seen by AFP -- warned of "around 50,000 English fans in the French capital who will not have tickets". "Some of them will have fake tickets and will try to use them to access the stadium," said the note from the DNLH, a branch of the police, although it does not estimate how many. "Others will try to enter the arena by deception, for example by using the uniforms of stewards, UEFA, cleaning or medical staff," added the note that was largely distributed to the police. ALSO READ | Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season After the crisis meeting at the sports ministry on Monday, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said the root cause of the problems was "massive, industrial-scale and organised fraud in fake tickets". Darmanin added there had been 30,000 to 40,000 Liverpool fans with fake tickets or without tickets outside the Stade de France. Earlier on Monday Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera blamed Liverpool for leaving its supporters "on the loose", prompting the chairman of Liverpool Football Club to pen an angry letter demanding an apology for the "irresponsible, unprofessional, and wholly disrespectful" comments. Some 22,000 tickets were officially allocated each to Real Madrid and Liverpool fans. A criminal investigation into the fake tickets has been launched in France. The note also warned that "several hundred English fans will try to enter the stadium by forcing the turnstiles and the various access doors" and called for "the greatest vigilance" at the various checkpoints. "If this event does not present particular risks in connection with violent supporters, disturbances to public order are to be feared, in particular due to the very large influx of supporters coming from all over Europe", the note said. Saturday's scenes tarnished the image of the French capital, raising questions about its ability to host major sporting events as it gears up for the 2024 Olympics, as well as the 2023 Rugby World Cup. UEFA, European football's governing body, announced Monday it was opening an "independent report" into the problems at the final that would "examine decision making, responsibility and behaviours of all entities involved".

UCL final: UEFA, French federation estimate 2,800 'fake tickets' scanned in marquee clash - Sources

Why are Football fans so violent? Clashes at the #ChampionsLeagueFinal have brought this question to the limelight. On Saturday, hundreds of football fans ran riot on the streets of Paris and clashed with cops. What explains their behaviour? Palki Sharma decodes.

Gravitas: Football Hooliganism: Clashes erupt at Champions League Final

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday. France international Benzema, 34, won the competition for the fifth time as Real beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final, having netted 15 goals in 12 games including hat-tricks against Paris St Germain and Chelsea in the knockout stages.

Benzema`s team mate Vinicius Junior, who scored the only goal in the final in Paris, was named the tournament`s Young Player of the Season. The duo were also named in the Team of the Season alongside Real midfielder Luka Modric and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who played a starring role in the showdown at Stade de France.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-to-investigate-champions-league-chaos-483662">UEFA to investigate Champions League chaos</a>

Runners-up Liverpool were represented by defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson as well as midfielder Fabinho. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne completed the lineup.

Team of the season: 
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) 
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Chelsea), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Andy Robertson (Liverpool) 
Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Fabinho (Liverpool), Luka Modric (Real Madrid) 
Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has been named the Champions League Player of the Season after a stellar 2021-22 campaign where he finished as top scorer, UEFA said on Tuesday. France international Benzema, 34, won the competition for the fifth time as Real beat Liverpool 1-0 in the final, having netted 15 goals in 12 games including hat-tricks against Paris St Germain and Chelsea in the knockout stages. Benzema`s team mate Vinicius Junior, who scored the only goal in the final in Paris, was named the tournament`s Young Player of the Season. The duo were also named in the Team of the Season alongside Real midfielder Luka Modric and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who played a starring role in the showdown at Stade de France. ALSO READ | UEFA to investigate Champions League chaos Runners-up Liverpool were represented by defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson as well as midfielder Fabinho. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe, Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne completed the lineup. Team of the season: Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Antonio Rudiger (Chelsea), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Andy Robertson (Liverpool) Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Fabinho (Liverpool), Luka Modric (Real Madrid) Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Karim Benzema (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema named Champions League Player of the Season

The recently-concluded Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool was marred with controversy after massive chaos broke outside the Stad de France ahead of the blockbuster clash. Real Madrid went on to defeat Liverpool 1-0 in the final to lift their 14th Champions League/European Cup title but their record-extending victory was overshadowed by what transpired outside the stadium on the day of the final.

UEFA was slammed by many for its failure in controlling the crowd at arguably one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world. The final was delayed by 36 minutes after UEFA claimed some fans were trying to force their way into the stadium without tickets or tickets which were fake.

Ruckus was created at the Liverpool end where French riot police were deployed after fans became uncontrollable. While the Real Madrid fans managed to gain entry into the stadium rather peacefully, the same was not the case at the Liverpool end where some fans allegedly tried to break in without tickets.

There were horrific scenes outside the stadium as videos went viral on social media showing the French police using tear gas and pepper spray on the Liverpool fans, including children. Some fans feared a stampede while others called it the 'worst experience of their lives'.&nbsp;

The controversy has now intensified after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson recently slammed the French officials for their harsh treatment of the fans. The British PM has urged UEFA to work closely with the French authorities on a full investigation and publish the findings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-to-investigate-champions-league-chaos-483662">UEFA to investigate Champions League chaos</a>

Here is a timeline of the entire controversy:

Chaos outside Stad de France ahead of Champions League final

Minutes ahead of kick-off in the Champions League 2021-22 final between Real Madrid and Liverpool in Paris, there was chaos outside the Stad de France where the match was being played. Some fans stormed into the stadium without tickets and some with fake ones trying to force their way into the final. Fans were seen scaling the fences and trying to get inside resulting in a delay of 36 minutes for kick-off.

Tear gas and pepper spray used&nbsp;

French police officials were spotted using tear gas and pepper spray to control the crowd outside the Stad de France. The action unfolded at the Liverpool end where some English fans alleged pepper spray was also used on children. The French police's handling of the situation and their treatment of the away fans in the country has come under the scanner after the incident.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kings-of-europe-chaos-controvery-and-drama-but-real-madrid-win-14th-champions-league-crown-483142">Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown</a>

Genuine ticket holders were denied entry&nbsp;

While they feared a stampede and were horrified by scenes outside the stadium, some Liverpool fans were not able to gain entry into the stadium despite having bought expensive tickets for the final before reaching Paris from their respective countries. Gates were blocked by the French officials who denied entry to the fans after the chaos and illegal entry by a host of fans.

What did Liverpool say?

Liverpool were quick to issue a statement condemning the mismanagement by the French authorities at the Stad de France ahead of such a big game. The English club also demanded a formal investigation into the matter after footage of pepper spray and tear gas being used against the fans surfaced on social media.&nbsp;

"We are hugely disappointed at the stadium entry issues and breakdown of the security perimeter that Liverpool fans faced this evening at Stade de France," the club said in a statement.

"This is the greatest match in European football and supporters should not have to experience the scenes we have witnessed tonight. We have officially requested a formal investigation into the causes of these unacceptable issues," it added.

UEFA launches investigation

UEFA on Monday announced that it will conduct an independent investigation on the chaos that broke out at the Champions League final. European football's governing body has appointed Portuguese politician Tiago Brandao Rodrigues to oversee the report, the findings of which will be made public and the course of action will be decided post that.

"Evidence will be gathered from all relevant parties. The findings of the independent report will be made public," UEFA said in its statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-hosts-emergency-meeting-after-champions-league-final-chaos-blamed-on-liverpool-483526">France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool</a>

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson slams French authorities

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson slammed the French officials for mistreating the English fans outside the Stad de France ahead of the Champions League final and said the footage which emerged from Paris 'was deeply upsetting and concerning'. Johnson has also demanded a proper investigation into the matter.

“The footage from the Stade de France this weekend was deeply upsetting and concerning. We know many Liverpool fans travelled to Paris in good time to support their team in one of the biggest matches of the season and we are hugely disappointed by how they were treated.

“Fans deserve to know what happened so we are urging UEFA to work closely with the French authorities on a full investigation and to publish those findings," said the spokesperson of Johnson.

The recently-concluded Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool was marred with controversy after massive chaos broke outside the Stad de France ahead of the blockbuster clash.

The recently-concluded Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool was marred with controversy after massive chaos broke outside the Stad de France ahead of the blockbuster clash. Real Madrid went on to defeat Liverpool 1-0 in the final to lift their 14th Champions League/European Cup title but their record-extending victory was overshadowed by what transpired outside the stadium on the day of the final. UEFA was slammed by many for its failure in controlling the crowd at arguably one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world. The final was delayed by 36 minutes after UEFA claimed some fans were trying to force their way into the stadium without tickets or tickets which were fake. Ruckus was created at the Liverpool end where French riot police were deployed after fans became uncontrollable. While the Real Madrid fans managed to gain entry into the stadium rather peacefully, the same was not the case at the Liverpool end where some fans allegedly tried to break in without tickets. There were horrific scenes outside the stadium as videos went viral on social media showing the French police using tear gas and pepper spray on the Liverpool fans, including children. Some fans feared a stampede while others called it the 'worst experience of their lives'. The controversy has now intensified after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson recently slammed the French officials for their harsh treatment of the fans. The British PM has urged UEFA to work closely with the French authorities on a full investigation and publish the findings. Also Read: UEFA to investigate Champions League chaos Here is a timeline of the entire controversy: Chaos outside Stad de France ahead of Champions League final Minutes ahead of kick-off in the Champions League 2021-22 final between Real Madrid and Liverpool in Paris, there was chaos outside the Stad de France where the match was being played. Some fans stormed into the stadium without tickets and some with fake ones trying to force their way into the final. Fans were seen scaling the fences and trying to get inside resulting in a delay of 36 minutes for kick-off. Tear gas and pepper spray used French police officials were spotted using tear gas and pepper spray to control the crowd outside the Stad de France. The action unfolded at the Liverpool end where some English fans alleged pepper spray was also used on children. The French police's handling of the situation and their treatment of the away fans in the country has come under the scanner after the incident. Also Read: Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown Genuine ticket holders were denied entry While they feared a stampede and were horrified by scenes outside the stadium, some Liverpool fans were not able to gain entry into the stadium despite having bought expensive tickets for the final before reaching Paris from their respective countries. Gates were blocked by the French officials who denied entry to the fans after the chaos and illegal entry by a host of fans. What did Liverpool say? Liverpool were quick to issue a statement condemning the mismanagement by the French authorities at the Stad de France ahead of such a big game. The English club also demanded a formal investigation into the matter after footage of pepper spray and tear gas being used against the fans surfaced on social media. "We are hugely disappointed at the stadium entry issues and breakdown of the security perimeter that Liverpool fans faced this evening at Stade de France," the club said in a statement. "This is the greatest match in European football and supporters should not have to experience the scenes we have witnessed tonight. We have officially requested a formal investigation into the causes of these unacceptable issues," it added. UEFA launches investigation UEFA on Monday announced that it will conduct an independent investigation on the chaos that broke out at the Champions League final. European football's governing body has appointed Portuguese politician Tiago Brandao Rodrigues to oversee the report, the findings of which will be made public and the course of action will be decided post that. "Evidence will be gathered from all relevant parties. The findings of the independent report will be made public," UEFA said in its statement. Also Read: France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson slams French authorities UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson slammed the French officials for mistreating the English fans outside the Stad de France ahead of the Champions League final and said the footage which emerged from Paris 'was deeply upsetting and concerning'. Johnson has also demanded a proper investigation into the matter. “The footage from the Stade de France this weekend was deeply upsetting and concerning. We know many Liverpool fans travelled to Paris in good time to support their team in one of the biggest matches of the season and we are hugely disappointed by how they were treated. “Fans deserve to know what happened so we are urging UEFA to work closely with the French authorities on a full investigation and to publish those findings," said the spokesperson of Johnson.

Champions League final chaos timeline: UEFA launches investigation, UK PM slams French officials

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe. One of the most successful footballers of all time, Messi has won the Ballon d'Or a record seven times. However, he might not be one of the favourites to win the greatest individual accolade in football this year.

Messi, who left his boyhood club FC Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, had to endure a difficult season in Paris. While goals dried up a bit for the 34-year-old, he was also booed by the PSG fans on several occasions during the season due to his average performances.

After a difficult season with PSG, Messi is certainly not among the top contenders to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time in over a decade. However, the PSG superstar has named his favourite who he thinks is a deserving candidate for the prestigious honour this year.

Mess believes Real Madrid and France striker Karim Benzema deserves to win the Ballon d'Or 2022 for his stellar run across competitions. Benzema played an instrumental role in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga and the Champions League titles this season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kings-of-europe-chaos-controvery-and-drama-but-real-madrid-win-14th-champions-league-crown-483142">Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown</a>

While he didn't score in the Champions League final against Liverpool on Sunday (May 29), it was due to his consecutive hat-tricks in the knockout rounds against PSG and Manchester City that Madrid managed to qualify for the final. The French stalwart scored 27 goals in La Liga and 15 in the Champions League to cap off a stunning season for Real Madrid.

"There's no doubt, it's very clear that Benzema has had a spectacular year and has ended it by winning the Champions League," Messi told Argentine channel TyC Sports when asked who should win the Ballon d'Or this season.

"He was crucial from the last-16 onwards in every match and I think there's no doubt," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-story-has-come-to-an-end-robert-lewandowski-confirms-he-will-be-leaving-bayern-munich-483600">'My story has come to an end': Robert Lewandowski confirms he will be leaving Bayern Munich</a>

Benzema is certainly one of the top contenders for the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his heroics with Real Madrid. If he manages to win the award, it will be his first-ever Ballon d'Or. However, Benzema is expected to face stern competition from the likes of Liverpool's Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mane among others.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe.

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest footballers to have graced the game. Over the years, the Argentine icon has produced some breath-taking performances at the international and club level to wow millions of fans across the globe. One of the most successful footballers of all time, Messi has won the Ballon d'Or a record seven times. However, he might not be one of the favourites to win the greatest individual accolade in football this year. Messi, who left his boyhood club FC Barcelona to sign for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, had to endure a difficult season in Paris. While goals dried up a bit for the 34-year-old, he was also booed by the PSG fans on several occasions during the season due to his average performances. After a difficult season with PSG, Messi is certainly not among the top contenders to win the Ballon d'Or for the first time in over a decade. However, the PSG superstar has named his favourite who he thinks is a deserving candidate for the prestigious honour this year. Mess believes Real Madrid and France striker Karim Benzema deserves to win the Ballon d'Or 2022 for his stellar run across competitions. Benzema played an instrumental role in helping Real Madrid win the La Liga and the Champions League titles this season. Also Read: Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown While he didn't score in the Champions League final against Liverpool on Sunday (May 29), it was due to his consecutive hat-tricks in the knockout rounds against PSG and Manchester City that Madrid managed to qualify for the final. The French stalwart scored 27 goals in La Liga and 15 in the Champions League to cap off a stunning season for Real Madrid. "There's no doubt, it's very clear that Benzema has had a spectacular year and has ended it by winning the Champions League," Messi told Argentine channel TyC Sports when asked who should win the Ballon d'Or this season. "He was crucial from the last-16 onwards in every match and I think there's no doubt," he added. Also Read: 'My story has come to an end': Robert Lewandowski confirms he will be leaving Bayern Munich Benzema is certainly one of the top contenders for the prestigious Ballon d'Or this year after his heroics with Real Madrid. If he manages to win the award, it will be his first-ever Ballon d'Or. However, Benzema is expected to face stern competition from the likes of Liverpool's Mohammed Salah and Sadio Mane among others.

Not Salah or Mane! Lionel Messi names Real Madrid star who deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year

Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club.

The consortium, which won the bid to acquire the London side earlier this month, received approval from the Premier League and the British government last week for the sale to go ahead. A final agreement was reached on Saturday. Russian owner Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Sanctions on the Russian had also complicated the sale process.

"In selling the club, Mr. Abramovich stipulated that the new owner must be a good steward of the club, the net proceeds of the sale must be donated to charity, and that he would not seek the repayment of loans made to affiliates of the club," Chelsea said in a statement.

The sale also needed the green light from the Portugal government after Abramovich became a citizen of the country last year and is also under European Union sanctions. Chelsea had been operating under a special license issued by the British government since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31.

Chelsea said they had received more than 250 enquiries from proposed purchasers, adding that 32 confidentiality agreements had been reached with interested parties. The club eventually received 12 credible bids which were narrowed down to four before the Boehly-led consortium was chosen as the preferred bidder.

Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($177.21 million), with his investment resulting in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

`WE`RE ALL IN` 
The club said Boehly and Clearlake would share joint control and equal governance of the club. Boehly, who is part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, will serve as chairman of the holding company. 
"We are honoured to become the new custodians of Chelsea Football Club. We`re all in -- 100% -- every minute of every match," Boehly said.

"Our vision as owners is clear: we want to make the fans proud. Along with our commitment to developing the youth squad and acquiring the best talent, our plan of action is to invest in the club for the long-term and build on Chelsea`s remarkable history of success. "I personally want to thank ministers and officials in the British government, and the Premier League, for all their work in making this happen."

The completion of the sale now allows Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed. Chelsea finished third in the recently concluded Premier League season. They lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup and League Cup finals while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Real Madrid.

Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club.

Roman Abramovich has completed the sale of Chelsea and related companies to an investment group led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Premier League club said on Monday, ending a three-month process to sell the club. The consortium, which won the bid to acquire the London side earlier this month, received approval from the Premier League and the British government last week for the sale to go ahead. A final agreement was reached on Saturday. Russian owner Abramovich put the club up for sale in early March following Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation". Sanctions on the Russian had also complicated the sale process. "In selling the club, Mr. Abramovich stipulated that the new owner must be a good steward of the club, the net proceeds of the sale must be donated to charity, and that he would not seek the repayment of loans made to affiliates of the club," Chelsea said in a statement. The sale also needed the green light from the Portugal government after Abramovich became a citizen of the country last year and is also under European Union sanctions. Chelsea had been operating under a special license issued by the British government since Abramovich`s assets were frozen in March and it was set to expire on May 31. Chelsea said they had received more than 250 enquiries from proposed purchasers, adding that 32 confidentiality agreements had been reached with interested parties. The club eventually received 12 credible bids which were narrowed down to four before the Boehly-led consortium was chosen as the preferred bidder. Abramovich bought the club in 2003 for a reported 140 million pounds ($177.21 million), with his investment resulting in the most successful era in their history as they won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice. `WE`RE ALL IN` The club said Boehly and Clearlake would share joint control and equal governance of the club. Boehly, who is part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, will serve as chairman of the holding company. "We are honoured to become the new custodians of Chelsea Football Club. We`re all in -- 100% -- every minute of every match," Boehly said. "Our vision as owners is clear: we want to make the fans proud. Along with our commitment to developing the youth squad and acquiring the best talent, our plan of action is to invest in the club for the long-term and build on Chelsea`s remarkable history of success. "I personally want to thank ministers and officials in the British government, and the Premier League, for all their work in making this happen." The completion of the sale now allows Chelsea to renew transfer activity as well as permit players to sign new contracts, which was prohibited as part of the sanctions imposed. Chelsea finished third in the recently concluded Premier League season. They lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup and League Cup finals while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Real Madrid.

Roman-era comes to an end as Abramovich completes Chelsea sale to Todd Boehly-led consortium

Robert Lewandowski said Monday that his time with Bayern Munich was over, without specifying his future plans, amid reports that Barcelona have made him an offer.&nbsp; "Today it is certain that my story with Bayern has come to an end," the Polish star striker told reporters in Warsaw.

"I can't imagine further cooperation, after what has happened over the last few months. A transfer will be the best solution. I trust that Bayern won't stop me, just because they can," he added.

With a year left on Lewandowski's contract, Barcelona have reportedly made an offer of 32 million euros ($34.5 million) to sign him. In an interview with Polish broadcaster Eleven Sports PL, Lewandowski dropped a teaser about how he would enjoy living in Spain.&nbsp;

"I think it's a really good place -- not just to go on holiday there," he said, adding that he has a house in Mallorca.

Bayern CEO Oliver Khan and director of sports Hasan Salihamidzic have both publically stated the club will not let Lewandowski leave before 2023. Earlier this month, Lewandowski's agent Pini Zahavi warned Bayern against insisting on the contract.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/france-hosts-emergency-meeting-after-champions-league-final-chaos-blamed-on-liverpool-483526">France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool</a> 
&nbsp;

"Of course they can keep Robert for another year, to be fair he has a contract until 2023, but I wouldn't recommend that to them," Zahavi told German daily Bild.

He added that the issue for Lewandowski is not about extra money.&nbsp;

"He has felt disrespected by those in charge (at Bayern) for months, that's the truth. FC Bayern has not lost Lewandowski the player, but Robert the person."

Zahavi said he hopes Bayern's senior figures "will think about it again" and allow Lewandowski the opportunity "to fulfil a lifelong dream and move to the club (Barcelona) he has always dreamed of."

A back-to-back winner of FIFA's best male player award, Lewandowski has won every title available since joining Bayern in 2014, including eight Bundesliga trophies for a total of 10 having won two with ex-club Dortmund.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kings-of-europe-chaos-controvery-and-drama-but-real-madrid-win-14th-champions-league-crown-483142">&nbsp;Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown</a>

He also won the Champions League with Bayern in 2020.

Lewandowski was top-scorer in the Bundesliga last season for the fifth year running after netting 35 goals in Germany's top flight.

On Monday, Bayern also confirmed the exit of France midfielder Corentin Tolisso whose contract has expired after five years in Munich.

Robert Lewandowski said Monday that his time with Bayern Munich was over, without specifying his future plans, amid reports that Barcelona have made him an offer.

Robert Lewandowski said Monday that his time with Bayern Munich was over, without specifying his future plans, amid reports that Barcelona have made him an offer. "Today it is certain that my story with Bayern has come to an end," the Polish star striker told reporters in Warsaw. "I can't imagine further cooperation, after what has happened over the last few months. A transfer will be the best solution. I trust that Bayern won't stop me, just because they can," he added. With a year left on Lewandowski's contract, Barcelona have reportedly made an offer of 32 million euros ($34.5 million) to sign him. In an interview with Polish broadcaster Eleven Sports PL, Lewandowski dropped a teaser about how he would enjoy living in Spain. "I think it's a really good place -- not just to go on holiday there," he said, adding that he has a house in Mallorca. Bayern CEO Oliver Khan and director of sports Hasan Salihamidzic have both publically stated the club will not let Lewandowski leave before 2023. Earlier this month, Lewandowski's agent Pini Zahavi warned Bayern against insisting on the contract. Read more: France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool "Of course they can keep Robert for another year, to be fair he has a contract until 2023, but I wouldn't recommend that to them," Zahavi told German daily Bild. He added that the issue for Lewandowski is not about extra money. "He has felt disrespected by those in charge (at Bayern) for months, that's the truth. FC Bayern has not lost Lewandowski the player, but Robert the person." Zahavi said he hopes Bayern's senior figures "will think about it again" and allow Lewandowski the opportunity "to fulfil a lifelong dream and move to the club (Barcelona) he has always dreamed of." A back-to-back winner of FIFA's best male player award, Lewandowski has won every title available since joining Bayern in 2014, including eight Bundesliga trophies for a total of 10 having won two with ex-club Dortmund. Read more: Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown He also won the Champions League with Bayern in 2020. Lewandowski was top-scorer in the Bundesliga last season for the fifth year running after netting 35 goals in Germany's top flight. On Monday, Bayern also confirmed the exit of France midfielder Corentin Tolisso whose contract has expired after five years in Munich.

'My story has come to an end': Robert Lewandowski confirms he will be leaving Bayern Munich

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets.

"We need to take all the necessary steps to make sure this never happens again", said French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, at the start of the meeting.

The crowd trouble at the match in Paris has become a political issue ahead of French parliamentary elections in mid-June, and with France due to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympics.

"The images are lamentable, they are disturbing because we can clearly see that we are not prepared for events such as the Olympic Games", said far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon on Sunday, while his far-right rival Marine Le Pen called the incident a "humiliation" for France.

Far-right politician Eric Zemmour had also said the trouble was caused principally by local youths from the nearby Paris Seine Saint Denis district, rather than Liverpool fans.

Oudea-Castera said Liverpool fans without valid tickets were responsible for the initial crowd problems at the Champions League final, with the problem then exacerbated by local youths trying to force their way in to the game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kings-of-europe-chaos-controvery-and-drama-but-real-madrid-win-14th-champions-league-crown-483142">Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown</a>

"What we really have to bear in mind is that what happened first of all was this mass gathering of British supporters of the Liverpool club, without tickets, or with fake tickets," Oudea-Castera told RTL radio on Monday.

"When there are that many people by the entrance to the stadium, there will be people trying to force their way in through the doors of the Stade de France, and a certain number of youths from the nearby area who were present tried to get in by mixing in with the crowd," she told French radio RTL.

The match had to be delayed by 35 minutes after police tried to hold back people attempting to force their way into the national stadium without tickets, while some ticket holders complained that they were not let in.

Television footage showed images of young men who did not appear to be wearing red Liverpool jerseys jumping the gates of the stadium and running away from security to get into the match. Others outside, including children, were tear-gassed by riot police, said a Reuters witness.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-fans-caused-initial-problems-at-champions-league-final-claims-french-minister-483483">Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister</a>

Chris Philp, Britain`s minister for technology, said he was shocked by the images.

"I was horrified to see those pictures of fans including children, disabled fans, being pepper-sprayed by French police," he added. "And from the pictures I saw there was no obvious justification for that kind of behaviour."

Liverpool Chief Executive Billy Hogan said the club wanted a "transparent investigation" by governing body UEFA. Britain`s minister for sport, Nadine Dorries, also urged UEFA to investigate.

Oudea-Castera said there were no problems with Real Madrid supporters at Saturday`s match and that the Spanish side had managed to control their travelling fans better than Liverpool.

She added that France nevertheless had to examine stepping up security at high-risk soccer matches, with further trouble having broken out on Sunday after St Etienne were relegated from France`s Ligue 1.

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets.

The French government hosted an emergency meeting on Monday after crowd trouble marred last weekend`s Champions League soccer final, which France`s sports minister said was initially caused by Liverpool fans turning up without valid tickets. "We need to take all the necessary steps to make sure this never happens again", said French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, at the start of the meeting. The crowd trouble at the match in Paris has become a political issue ahead of French parliamentary elections in mid-June, and with France due to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympics. "The images are lamentable, they are disturbing because we can clearly see that we are not prepared for events such as the Olympic Games", said far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon on Sunday, while his far-right rival Marine Le Pen called the incident a "humiliation" for France. Far-right politician Eric Zemmour had also said the trouble was caused principally by local youths from the nearby Paris Seine Saint Denis district, rather than Liverpool fans. Oudea-Castera said Liverpool fans without valid tickets were responsible for the initial crowd problems at the Champions League final, with the problem then exacerbated by local youths trying to force their way in to the game. Also Read: Kings of Europe! Chaos, controversy and drama but Real Madrid win 14th Champions League crown "What we really have to bear in mind is that what happened first of all was this mass gathering of British supporters of the Liverpool club, without tickets, or with fake tickets," Oudea-Castera told RTL radio on Monday. "When there are that many people by the entrance to the stadium, there will be people trying to force their way in through the doors of the Stade de France, and a certain number of youths from the nearby area who were present tried to get in by mixing in with the crowd," she told French radio RTL. The match had to be delayed by 35 minutes after police tried to hold back people attempting to force their way into the national stadium without tickets, while some ticket holders complained that they were not let in. Television footage showed images of young men who did not appear to be wearing red Liverpool jerseys jumping the gates of the stadium and running away from security to get into the match. Others outside, including children, were tear-gassed by riot police, said a Reuters witness. Also Read: Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister Chris Philp, Britain`s minister for technology, said he was shocked by the images. "I was horrified to see those pictures of fans including children, disabled fans, being pepper-sprayed by French police," he added. "And from the pictures I saw there was no obvious justification for that kind of behaviour." Liverpool Chief Executive Billy Hogan said the club wanted a "transparent investigation" by governing body UEFA. Britain`s minister for sport, Nadine Dorries, also urged UEFA to investigate. Oudea-Castera said there were no problems with Real Madrid supporters at Saturday`s match and that the Spanish side had managed to control their travelling fans better than Liverpool. She added that France nevertheless had to examine stepping up security at high-risk soccer matches, with further trouble having broken out on Sunday after St Etienne were relegated from France`s Ligue 1.

France hosts emergency meeting after Champions League final chaos blamed on Liverpool

Saint Etienne and Auxerre locked horns with each other in the relegation playoffs on Sunday (May 29) at the&nbsp;Geoffroy-Guichard, France. In what was a riveting clash, which saw both sides at 1-1 after full-time, the match went in favour of Auxerre courtesy of a 5-4 scoreline in the penalties.&nbsp;

Following the result,&nbsp;Saint-Etienne -- one of France's biggest clubs -- were relegated from Ligue 1 and it led to a widespread reaction from the ardent fans. The fans of the club stormed onto the pitch to attack before the French police had to intervene and use the tear gas to stem the trouble. Here's the video of the disturbance caused by the fans the moment Saint Etienne were relegated after the penalty shootout:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-fans-caused-initial-problems-at-champions-league-final-claims-french-minister-483483">Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Saint-Etienne fans invade the pitch to attack their players after relegation.😱 
 
<a href="https://t.co/qlEFQqjL9N">pic.twitter.com/qlEFQqjL9N</a>
— BRGoals (@BRGoals) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRGoals/status/1531005013899857920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-andy-robertson-slams-organisers-for-champions-league-final-chaos-483213">Liverpool's Andy Robertson slams organisers for Champions League final chaos</a>

The first leg of Saint Etienne-Auxerre had also ended in a 1-1 stalemate. After the second leg also ended in a tie, after 90 minutes, the action moved to the shooouts. As soon as the result came out, the Saint Etienne fans were out in the middle to create a huge ruckus.&nbsp;

As a result, the&nbsp;players of both teams took refuge in the changing rooms, however, the&nbsp;Prime Video television footage from the tunnel displayed&nbsp;players, stewards and staff coughing from tear gas used by the police in order to disperse the invaders.

Saint Etienne and Auxerre locked horns with each other in the relegation playoffs on Sunday (May 29) at the Geoffroy-Guichard, France. In what was a riveting clash, which saw both sides at 1-1 after full-time, the match went in favour of Auxerre courtesy of a 5-4 scoreline in the penalties.

Saint Etienne and Auxerre locked horns with each other in the relegation playoffs on Sunday (May 29) at the Geoffroy-Guichard, France. In what was a riveting clash, which saw both sides at 1-1 after full-time, the match went in favour of Auxerre courtesy of a 5-4 scoreline in the penalties. Following the result, Saint-Etienne -- one of France's biggest clubs -- were relegated from Ligue 1 and it led to a widespread reaction from the ardent fans. The fans of the club stormed onto the pitch to attack before the French police had to intervene and use the tear gas to stem the trouble. Here's the video of the disturbance caused by the fans the moment Saint Etienne were relegated after the penalty shootout: ALSO READ | Liverpool fans caused initial problems at Champions League final, claims French minister Saint-Etienne fans invade the pitch to attack their players after relegation.😱 pic.twitter.com/qlEFQqjL9N — BRGoals (@BRGoals) May 29, 2022 × ALSO READ | Liverpool's Andy Robertson slams organisers for Champions League final chaos The first leg of Saint Etienne-Auxerre had also ended in a 1-1 stalemate. After the second leg also ended in a tie, after 90 minutes, the action moved to the shooouts. As soon as the result came out, the Saint Etienne fans were out in the middle to create a huge ruckus. As a result, the players of both teams took refuge in the changing rooms, however, the Prime Video television footage from the tunnel displayed players, stewards and staff coughing from tear gas used by the police in order to disperse the invaders.

Tear gas used by French cops as Saint-Etienne fans attack their players after Ligue 1 relegation - WATCH

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