Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Guardiola, who missed Friday`s 4-1 FA Cup third round victory over Swindon Town after returning a positive test, did not specify whether the new cases were among players or members of staff while the number of cases was also not mentioned.

Last Thursday, City confirmed Guardiola and his assistant Juanma Lillo were among seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff who were isolating for COVID-19 related reasons.

"We have some new cases, they want privacy so I can`t say," Guardiola told reporters on Friday, adding some players who missed the Swindon game will remain unavailable after continuing to return positive tests.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/real-madrid-defender-dani-carvajal-tests-covid-positive-in-saudi-arabia-444741">Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal tests Covid positive in Saudi Arabia</a>

"We played Aston Villa with 11 first team players. The last six, seven games there are four or five academy players on the bench. We are in the same situation as all other clubs.

"Before we tried to plan the next few days but what we`ve learned is to take it day by day, take decisions a few hours before a training session or game because we can be okay and then in four or five hours we have positive cases."

Guardiola, set to return to the dugout on Saturday, heaped praise on his counterpart Thomas Tuchel and his team before City host Chelsea and added he is expecting a completely different game to the one City won 1-0 earlier this season.

"So creative. One of the few managers I learn constantly from, to become a better manager myself," Guardiola said of Tuchel.

Read Also |<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/liverpool-frustrated-by-10-man-arsenal-in-league-cup-semi-final-stalemate-444668">&nbsp;Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate</a>

"Excellent in all departments. Always I enjoy watching his teams and the approach. He makes world football better..

"Tomorrow we face the European champions, an excellent team... The performance (in September) was really good, we minimised the champions of Europe when they had all players fit.

"At that moment we were below them, we knew the difficulty. We won unfortunately with a short margin... we learn from that, we can be better especially in attack. Tomorrow will be completely different."

Chelsea are 10 points adrift of champions City after 21 games before the two teams meet at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said there are additional COVID-19 cases at the club following last week`s outbreak as they prepare to take on second-placed Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday. Guardiola, who missed Friday`s 4-1 FA Cup third round victory over Swindon Town after returning a positive test, did not specify whether the new cases were among players or members of staff while the number of cases was also not mentioned. Last Thursday, City confirmed Guardiola and his assistant Juanma Lillo were among seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff who were isolating for COVID-19 related reasons. "We have some new cases, they want privacy so I can`t say," Guardiola told reporters on Friday, adding some players who missed the Swindon game will remain unavailable after continuing to return positive tests. Read Also | Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal tests Covid positive in Saudi Arabia "We played Aston Villa with 11 first team players. The last six, seven games there are four or five academy players on the bench. We are in the same situation as all other clubs. "Before we tried to plan the next few days but what we`ve learned is to take it day by day, take decisions a few hours before a training session or game because we can be okay and then in four or five hours we have positive cases." Guardiola, set to return to the dugout on Saturday, heaped praise on his counterpart Thomas Tuchel and his team before City host Chelsea and added he is expecting a completely different game to the one City won 1-0 earlier this season. "So creative. One of the few managers I learn constantly from, to become a better manager myself," Guardiola said of Tuchel. Read Also | Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate "Excellent in all departments. Always I enjoy watching his teams and the approach. He makes world football better.. "Tomorrow we face the European champions, an excellent team... The performance (in September) was really good, we minimised the champions of Europe when they had all players fit. "At that moment we were below them, we knew the difficulty. We won unfortunately with a short margin... we learn from that, we can be better especially in attack. Tomorrow will be completely different." Chelsea are 10 points adrift of champions City after 21 games before the two teams meet at the Etihad Stadium.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola confirms new COVID-19 cases ahead of Chelsea game

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday.

A Real Madrid spokesman told Reuters that the club is consulting the Saudi authorities to learn what procedures to follow. The club confirmed that the player had been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Saudi Arabia`s COVID-19 protocols determine that any person who tests positive has to quarantine for seven days and test negative twice before being cleared.

Real are set to face Athletic Bilbao in Sunday`s final, after beating rivals Barcelona 3-2 after extra time in the semis. 
Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales confirmed on Friday that there are unvaccinated players at the tournament. 
Reuters reported on Thursday that Saudi Arabia waived its requirement for visitors to be fully vaccinated to allow players from Spain to compete in the Spanish Super Cup on Saudi soil.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/liverpool-frustrated-by-10-man-arsenal-in-league-cup-semi-final-stalemate-444668">Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate</a>

"The Saudi government told us that exceptions were going to be made," Rubiales told Spanish radio station Cadena SER on Friday.

"We are being criticised for doing that but we would also be if eight or 10 players missed the tournament... In life, it doesn`t matter what you do, everything is going to be criticised. We are happy that Saudi Arabia understood our exceptions."

Full vaccination is mandatory to enter the kingdom according to guidelines on the government website. 
Yet, those exceptions were exposed when Brazil coach Tite announced on Thursday&nbsp;that he was leaving Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi out of his squad for the next two World Cup qualifiers because the player has not had a full course of COVID-19 vaccines.

Lodi entered Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and played against Athletic Bilbao later on Thursday in the tournament`s second semi-final. 
Rubiales defended the Spanish FA for moving the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of human rights violations by Amnesty International.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/efl-cup-when-and-where-to-watch-liverpool-vs-arsenal-carabao-cup-semi-final-encounter-444501">EFL Cup: When and where to watch Liverpool vs Arsenal Carabao Cup semi-final encounter?</a>

Saudi Arabia has no codified legal system and no laws regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Judges have convicted people for "immorality", having sexual relations outside of marriage, and homosexual sex.

"We are a football federation that reached an agreement with another federation," Rubiales told SER.

"We have found a magnificent agreement for Spanish and Saudi football. I do not enter into criticism. When they criticise, they talk about politics, about things outside of football.

"There are many companies that work here. We are doing a service for Spanish football and we are also campaigning to host the World Cup so here is the right place to be."

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday.

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday. A Real Madrid spokesman told Reuters that the club is consulting the Saudi authorities to learn what procedures to follow. The club confirmed that the player had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Saudi Arabia`s COVID-19 protocols determine that any person who tests positive has to quarantine for seven days and test negative twice before being cleared. Real are set to face Athletic Bilbao in Sunday`s final, after beating rivals Barcelona 3-2 after extra time in the semis. Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales confirmed on Friday that there are unvaccinated players at the tournament. Reuters reported on Thursday that Saudi Arabia waived its requirement for visitors to be fully vaccinated to allow players from Spain to compete in the Spanish Super Cup on Saudi soil. Read Also | Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate "The Saudi government told us that exceptions were going to be made," Rubiales told Spanish radio station Cadena SER on Friday. "We are being criticised for doing that but we would also be if eight or 10 players missed the tournament... In life, it doesn`t matter what you do, everything is going to be criticised. We are happy that Saudi Arabia understood our exceptions." Full vaccination is mandatory to enter the kingdom according to guidelines on the government website. Yet, those exceptions were exposed when Brazil coach Tite announced on Thursday that he was leaving Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi out of his squad for the next two World Cup qualifiers because the player has not had a full course of COVID-19 vaccines. Lodi entered Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and played against Athletic Bilbao later on Thursday in the tournament`s second semi-final. Rubiales defended the Spanish FA for moving the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of human rights violations by Amnesty International. Read Also | EFL Cup: When and where to watch Liverpool vs Arsenal Carabao Cup semi-final encounter? Saudi Arabia has no codified legal system and no laws regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Judges have convicted people for "immorality", having sexual relations outside of marriage, and homosexual sex. "We are a football federation that reached an agreement with another federation," Rubiales told SER. "We have found a magnificent agreement for Spanish and Saudi football. I do not enter into criticism. When they criticise, they talk about politics, about things outside of football. "There are many companies that work here. We are doing a service for Spanish football and we are also campaigning to host the World Cup so here is the right place to be."

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal tests Covid positive in Saudi Arabia

Liverpool were frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in a 0-0 League Cup semi-final first leg on Thursday at Anfield where the visitors defended superbly after Granit Xhaka`s early sending off.

Switzerland international midfielder Xhaka was shown a red card in the 24th minute for a high challenge on Diogo Jota at the edge of the area, catching the Portuguese forward in the ribs and denying him a scoring opportunity.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta responded by bringing on defender Rob Holding in place of striker Eddie Nketiah, the hat-trick hero against League One side Sunderland in the quarter-finals, leaving Alexandre Lacazette as the lone man up front.

Despite Liverpool enjoying most of the possession, Arsenal kept them out with an impressive performance under pressure and still looked dangerous on the break.

The hosts were toothless without their potent strike pairing of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who are playing at the Africa Cup of Nations for Egypt and Senegal respectively.

"I would have preferred to score the goal rather than them getting the red card, especially after the game now," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp told Sky Sports.

"It`s a two-leg game and it`s halftime and I can`t remember one time in my life when I was sitting with 0-0 at halftime wherever it was and thought, `Oh, we have no chance any more`."

The winners after next week`s second leg in London will face Chelsea, who beat Tottenham Hotspur nL1N2TS2YF 3-0 on aggregate on Wednesday, in the final at Wembley on Feb. 27.

Arsenal`s best opportunity came in the 71st minute when England international Bukayo Saka forced a crouching save from Alisson with the first real shot on target of the game.

Liverpool`s Takumi Minamino then missed a golden chance when the Japanese midfielder fired high over the bar from close range in the 90th.

The miss summed up the night for Liverpool, who lacked composure and snatched at chances against opponents dumped out of the FA Cup in the third round at Championship (second-tier)side Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

"There is so much fight in this team and it showed today," said Arsenal defender Ben White, who was man of the match.

"We dug deep and got the result that we needed ... it`s hard enough to come here with 11 men and to get one sent off straight away is not good. But absolutely superb from everyone.

"You have to concentrate the whole game and (have) a bit of luck. The result is well deserved. It`s nice to defend like that as a defender."

Arteta hailed his players for their fighting spirit.

"We played the game that we had to play, which is not our game," said the Spaniard, whose side picked up a few injuries with right back Cedric Soares taken off after only 12 minutes and replacement Calum Chambers struggling at the end.

Liverpool were frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in a 0-0 League Cup semi-final first leg on Thursday at Anfield where the visitors defended superbly after Granit Xhaka`s early sending off.

Liverpool were frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in a 0-0 League Cup semi-final first leg on Thursday at Anfield where the visitors defended superbly after Granit Xhaka`s early sending off. Switzerland international midfielder Xhaka was shown a red card in the 24th minute for a high challenge on Diogo Jota at the edge of the area, catching the Portuguese forward in the ribs and denying him a scoring opportunity. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta responded by bringing on defender Rob Holding in place of striker Eddie Nketiah, the hat-trick hero against League One side Sunderland in the quarter-finals, leaving Alexandre Lacazette as the lone man up front. Despite Liverpool enjoying most of the possession, Arsenal kept them out with an impressive performance under pressure and still looked dangerous on the break. The hosts were toothless without their potent strike pairing of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who are playing at the Africa Cup of Nations for Egypt and Senegal respectively. "I would have preferred to score the goal rather than them getting the red card, especially after the game now," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp told Sky Sports. "It`s a two-leg game and it`s halftime and I can`t remember one time in my life when I was sitting with 0-0 at halftime wherever it was and thought, `Oh, we have no chance any more`." The winners after next week`s second leg in London will face Chelsea, who beat Tottenham Hotspur nL1N2TS2YF 3-0 on aggregate on Wednesday, in the final at Wembley on Feb. 27. Arsenal`s best opportunity came in the 71st minute when England international Bukayo Saka forced a crouching save from Alisson with the first real shot on target of the game. Liverpool`s Takumi Minamino then missed a golden chance when the Japanese midfielder fired high over the bar from close range in the 90th. The miss summed up the night for Liverpool, who lacked composure and snatched at chances against opponents dumped out of the FA Cup in the third round at Championship (second-tier)side Nottingham Forest on Sunday. "There is so much fight in this team and it showed today," said Arsenal defender Ben White, who was man of the match. "We dug deep and got the result that we needed ... it`s hard enough to come here with 11 men and to get one sent off straight away is not good. But absolutely superb from everyone. "You have to concentrate the whole game and (have) a bit of luck. The result is well deserved. It`s nice to defend like that as a defender." Arteta hailed his players for their fighting spirit. "We played the game that we had to play, which is not our game," said the Spaniard, whose side picked up a few injuries with right back Cedric Soares taken off after only 12 minutes and replacement Calum Chambers struggling at the end.

Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate

The football action continues across the globe as the first leg of the semi-final between Liverpool and Arsenal, of the&nbsp;EFL Cup 2021-22, is set to take place in the wee hours of Friday (January 14), IST. The&nbsp;match against Arsenal will finally go ahead after the string of Covid positive cases in the Liverpool camp early this month.

The first leg of the semi-final was set to take place a week before, i.e. on January 6, prior to the Covid-19 virus&nbsp;wreaking havoc in the schedule.&nbsp;"The first leg of the Carabao (League) Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Liverpool scheduled for Thursday 6 January 2022 has been postponed following a formal request by Liverpool due to a severe outbreak of COVID infections amongst their management and playing staff," the EFL said back then via a statement.

"The EFL has been in regular dialogue with the club over the past 48 hours in an attempt to understand whether the tie could proceed but significant developments over this period have resulted in the Club reporting an ever-increasing number of COVID cases," it added.

The second leg of the semi-final will take place on January 20&nbsp;at the Emirates.

Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:

Where is the&nbsp;Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;match taking place?

The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match will take place at Anfield, Liverpool.

What time does the Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match begin?

The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match begins at at 01:15 am IST on Friday (January 14).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cup-semis-federico-valverdes-extra-time-winner-gives-real-madrid-3-2-victory-vs-barcelona-444364">Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona</a>

How to watch live coverage of the Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match on TV?

The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match will be televised on Colors Infinity in India.

How to watch live coverage of Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match on the live streaming?

The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup&nbsp;​​​​​​​match&nbsp;can be live-streamed on the Voot app and also on Jio TV.

The football action continues across the globe as the first leg of the semi-final between Liverpool and Arsenal, of the EFL Cup 2021-22, is set to take place in the wee hours of Friday (January 14), IST.

The football action continues across the globe as the first leg of the semi-final between Liverpool and Arsenal, of the EFL Cup 2021-22, is set to take place in the wee hours of Friday (January 14), IST. The match against Arsenal will finally go ahead after the string of Covid positive cases in the Liverpool camp early this month. The first leg of the semi-final was set to take place a week before, i.e. on January 6, prior to the Covid-19 virus wreaking havoc in the schedule. "The first leg of the Carabao (League) Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Liverpool scheduled for Thursday 6 January 2022 has been postponed following a formal request by Liverpool due to a severe outbreak of COVID infections amongst their management and playing staff," the EFL said back then via a statement. "The EFL has been in regular dialogue with the club over the past 48 hours in an attempt to understand whether the tie could proceed but significant developments over this period have resulted in the Club reporting an ever-increasing number of COVID cases," it added. The second leg of the semi-final will take place on January 20 at the Emirates. Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match taking place? The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match will take place at Anfield, Liverpool. What time does the Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match begin? The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match begins at at 01:15 am IST on Friday (January 14). ALSO READ | Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona How to watch live coverage of the Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match on TV? The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match will be televised on Colors Infinity in India. How to watch live coverage of Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match on the live streaming? The Liverpool vs Arsenal EFL Cup match can be live-streamed on the Voot app and also on Jio TV.

EFL Cup: When and where to watch Liverpool vs Arsenal Carabao Cup semi-final encounter?

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday.

The clubs did not disclose financial details of the transfer but British media reported that Newcastle paid Burnley 25 million pounds ($34.3 million) for the 30-year-old.

"This is a very exciting opportunity for me and I`m delighted to be a Newcastle United player," Wood said, who has 27 goals for New Zealand, in a club statement.

Wood had been a key player for Burnley, having scored 49 goals in 144 league matches during his four-and-a-half years at Turf Moor. He joined Burnley from Leeds United in 2017 for a then-club-record fee.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cup-semis-federico-valverdes-extra-time-winner-gives-real-madrid-3-2-victory-vs-barcelona-444364">Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona</a>

Newcastle were in need of attacking reinforcements after top striker Callum Wilson had been ruled out for eight weeks due to a calf injury.

"Chris is an important signing for us at a crucial time and I`m very pleased we have been able to move quickly and bring him here," coach Eddie Howe said.

"He is a very dangerous attacking threat, has a physicality and character that I really like, and he has vast experience in the Premier League. He will be a great fit for us."

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-when-and-where-to-watch-barcelona-vs-real-madrid-supercopa-semi-final-encounter-444187">El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter?</a>

Wood becomes Newcastle`s second signing since the club`s takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October and more are expected to follow in the January window.

Newcastle, who are second-bottom in the league on 11 points after 19 matches, signed England fullback Kieran Trippier from LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid last week. They are due to host Watford in the league on Saturday.

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday.

Newcastle United have signed New Zealand striker Chris Wood from relegation rivals Burnley on a two-and-a-half-year deal, the two Premier League clubs announced on Thursday. The clubs did not disclose financial details of the transfer but British media reported that Newcastle paid Burnley 25 million pounds ($34.3 million) for the 30-year-old. "This is a very exciting opportunity for me and I`m delighted to be a Newcastle United player," Wood said, who has 27 goals for New Zealand, in a club statement. Wood had been a key player for Burnley, having scored 49 goals in 144 league matches during his four-and-a-half years at Turf Moor. He joined Burnley from Leeds United in 2017 for a then-club-record fee. Read Also | Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona Newcastle were in need of attacking reinforcements after top striker Callum Wilson had been ruled out for eight weeks due to a calf injury. "Chris is an important signing for us at a crucial time and I`m very pleased we have been able to move quickly and bring him here," coach Eddie Howe said. "He is a very dangerous attacking threat, has a physicality and character that I really like, and he has vast experience in the Premier League. He will be a great fit for us." Read Also | El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter? Wood becomes Newcastle`s second signing since the club`s takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October and more are expected to follow in the January window. Newcastle, who are second-bottom in the league on 11 points after 19 matches, signed England fullback Kieran Trippier from LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid last week. They are due to host Watford in the league on Saturday.

Chris Wood joins Newcastle United from relegation rivals Burnley

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/liverpool-manager-juergen-klopp-staying-positive-of-mohamed-salah-signing-new-contract-444207">Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract</a>

Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time.

Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh. Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao. Read Also | Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time. Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was staying positive that Mohamed Salah would sign a new contract at the club and said contract negotiations were nothing to worry about.

Egypt international Salah, the Premier League`s top scorer this season with 16 goals, is contracted to Liverpool until 2023 and maintains that he wants to stay at the club.

Contact negotiations are in progress and in an interview with GQ magazine, the 29-year-old Salah said he was not demanding "crazy things", but added the situation was in the club`s hands.

The subject inevitably turned to Salah when Klopp spoke to reporters in his news conference ahead of Liverpool`s League Cup semi-final against Arsenal on Thursday.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/el-clasico-when-and-where-to-watch-barcelona-vs-real-madrid-supercopa-semi-final-encounter-444187">El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter?</a>

"I`m very positive about it but I don`t think it makes sense that you speak on behalf of the fans because I`m pretty sure the fans are not as nervous as you are," Klopp said.

"They know the club pretty long and know the people dealing here with the different things pretty long, so I think there are enough reasons for being positive. But as long as it is not done we cannot say anything about it.

"But, good conversations -- that`s what I can say."

Former Chelsea player Salah has been a fundamental part of Liverpool`s success under Klopp, scoring 111 Premier League goals in four-and-a-half seasons at Anfield.

His interview with GQ, in which he said whether he stays or goes "is not in my hands" would have worried Liverpool`s fans who adore him and sing his name with passion.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/isl-2021-22-ishan-panditas-goal-helps-jamshedpur-fc-defeat-east-bengal-1-0-in-goa-444083">ISL 2021-22: Ishan Pandita's goal helps Jamshedpur FC defeat East Bengal 1-0 in Goa</a>

"Nowadays it`s dangerous with these interviews. We know, I know that Mo wants to say, we want him to stay. That`s where we are. These things take time, I cannot change it," Klopp said.

"There are so many things in negotiations. It`s a third party too with the agent, it`s nothing to worry about; it`s a normal process."

The first leg of the League Cup semi-final was originally scheduled for last week at Arsenal but was postponed because of the COVID-19 situation at Liverpool which resulted in the club`s training ground being closed.

Anfield will now host the first leg and Klopp says he now has a strong squad to choose from, although Salah will be missing, as will Sadio Mane, because of African Cup of Nations duty. Full back Trent Alexander Arnold and keeper Alisson are both available after being ruled out by positive COVID-19 tests.

"All players who aren`t injured or in Africa are available," Klopp said. "Trent and Ali trained yesterday. Div (Divock Origi) and Thiago not. That`s it pretty much."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was staying positive that Mohamed Salah would sign a new contract at the club and said contract negotiations were nothing to worry about.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was staying positive that Mohamed Salah would sign a new contract at the club and said contract negotiations were nothing to worry about. Egypt international Salah, the Premier League`s top scorer this season with 16 goals, is contracted to Liverpool until 2023 and maintains that he wants to stay at the club. Contact negotiations are in progress and in an interview with GQ magazine, the 29-year-old Salah said he was not demanding "crazy things", but added the situation was in the club`s hands. The subject inevitably turned to Salah when Klopp spoke to reporters in his news conference ahead of Liverpool`s League Cup semi-final against Arsenal on Thursday. Read Also | El Clasico: When and where to watch Barcelona vs Real Madrid Supercopa semi-final encounter? "I`m very positive about it but I don`t think it makes sense that you speak on behalf of the fans because I`m pretty sure the fans are not as nervous as you are," Klopp said. "They know the club pretty long and know the people dealing here with the different things pretty long, so I think there are enough reasons for being positive. But as long as it is not done we cannot say anything about it. "But, good conversations -- that`s what I can say." Former Chelsea player Salah has been a fundamental part of Liverpool`s success under Klopp, scoring 111 Premier League goals in four-and-a-half seasons at Anfield. His interview with GQ, in which he said whether he stays or goes "is not in my hands" would have worried Liverpool`s fans who adore him and sing his name with passion. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: Ishan Pandita's goal helps Jamshedpur FC defeat East Bengal 1-0 in Goa "Nowadays it`s dangerous with these interviews. We know, I know that Mo wants to say, we want him to stay. That`s where we are. These things take time, I cannot change it," Klopp said. "There are so many things in negotiations. It`s a third party too with the agent, it`s nothing to worry about; it`s a normal process." The first leg of the League Cup semi-final was originally scheduled for last week at Arsenal but was postponed because of the COVID-19 situation at Liverpool which resulted in the club`s training ground being closed. Anfield will now host the first leg and Klopp says he now has a strong squad to choose from, although Salah will be missing, as will Sadio Mane, because of African Cup of Nations duty. Full back Trent Alexander Arnold and keeper Alisson are both available after being ruled out by positive COVID-19 tests. "All players who aren`t injured or in Africa are available," Klopp said. "Trent and Ali trained yesterday. Div (Divock Origi) and Thiago not. That`s it pretty much."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract

Ishan Pandita`s lone strike in the 88th minute helped Jamshedpur FC defeat SC East Bengal 1-0 here at the GMC Athletic Stadium in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) on Tuesday.

The result allowed Owen Coyle`s men to leapfrog the competition and reach first place in the points table with 19 points.Ishan Pandita (88`) was the difference-maker after scoring another late goal with a towering header to secure three points for Jamshedpur FC.

The early exchanges saw both teams create half chances as there was little to separate the teams. Arindam Bhattacharya was called into action in the 27th minute after Murray found space behind the defensive line.

The goalkeeper did well to leave the box and make the clearance. No major scoring chances fell to either team until the half-hour mark.Boris Singh had a good chance to open the scoring in the final stages of the first half.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/turkish-international-footballer-ahmet-calik-passes-away-at-27-in-a-car-crash-443934">Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik passes away at 27 in a car crash</a>

The winger found himself unmarked inside the box but his header was disappointing and went way above the crossbar. Despite dominating the possession and creating more attacking opportunities, JFC was not able to score as both teams went into the break without scoring.

The Men of Steel started the second half on the front foot, with Jordan Murray hitting the crossbar with a looping header. Influential defender Adil Khan had to be replaced just before the hour mark by Darren Sidoel due to an injury.

Murray then had another shot saved by Arindam who parried the ball away with a strong right hand.The last 15-minutes saw JFC attack with more intensity. Murray was again on target in the 85th minute but his right-footed shot lacked the power to beat the SCEB custodian.

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However, it was Ishan Pandita yet again who scored a late goal to break SCEB hearts. The striker scored with a precise header after meeting with Greg Stewart`s corner.

Pandita`s goal was enough to secure the win and propel JFC to the top of the league table.Jamshedpur FC will next face high-flying Hyderabad FC at the Athletic Stadium on Monday. On the other hand, SC East Bengal meets Derrick Pereira`s FC Goa at the same venue on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ishan Pandita`s lone strike in the 88th minute helped Jamshedpur FC defeat SC East Bengal 1-0 here at the GMC Athletic Stadium in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) on Tuesday.

Ishan Pandita`s lone strike in the 88th minute helped Jamshedpur FC defeat SC East Bengal 1-0 here at the GMC Athletic Stadium in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) on Tuesday. The result allowed Owen Coyle`s men to leapfrog the competition and reach first place in the points table with 19 points.Ishan Pandita (88`) was the difference-maker after scoring another late goal with a towering header to secure three points for Jamshedpur FC. The early exchanges saw both teams create half chances as there was little to separate the teams. Arindam Bhattacharya was called into action in the 27th minute after Murray found space behind the defensive line. The goalkeeper did well to leave the box and make the clearance. No major scoring chances fell to either team until the half-hour mark.Boris Singh had a good chance to open the scoring in the final stages of the first half. Read Also | Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik passes away at 27 in a car crash The winger found himself unmarked inside the box but his header was disappointing and went way above the crossbar. Despite dominating the possession and creating more attacking opportunities, JFC was not able to score as both teams went into the break without scoring. The Men of Steel started the second half on the front foot, with Jordan Murray hitting the crossbar with a looping header. Influential defender Adil Khan had to be replaced just before the hour mark by Darren Sidoel due to an injury. Murray then had another shot saved by Arindam who parried the ball away with a strong right hand.The last 15-minutes saw JFC attack with more intensity. Murray was again on target in the 85th minute but his right-footed shot lacked the power to beat the SCEB custodian. Read Also | Scott McTominay seals narrow FA Cup win for Manchester United over Aston Villa However, it was Ishan Pandita yet again who scored a late goal to break SCEB hearts. The striker scored with a precise header after meeting with Greg Stewart`s corner. Pandita`s goal was enough to secure the win and propel JFC to the top of the league table.Jamshedpur FC will next face high-flying Hyderabad FC at the Athletic Stadium on Monday. On the other hand, SC East Bengal meets Derrick Pereira`s FC Goa at the same venue on Wednesday.

ISL 2021-22: Ishan Pandita's goal helps Jamshedpur FC defeat East Bengal 1-0 in Goa

Five FC Barcelona players were declared fit and available for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Head coach Xavi Hernandez can now call upon Ronald Araujo, Ansu Fati, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ferran Torres with the latter in with the chance to make his first appearance for Barca since joining from Manchester City.

On Wednesday, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid meet for the second time in the 2021/22 season, this time in the Spanish Super Cup, which is being played this week in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh.

Barca are competing as the current Copa del Rey winners, and Madrid as last year`s Liga runners-up. The prize for the victors is a place in Sunday`s final against either the defending Liga champions, Atletico Madrid, or beaten cup finalists Athletic Club, who will be meeting in the second semi-final on Thursday.

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All three of the games are being played in the 68,752 capacity King Fahd International Stadium. This is the second time that the Spanish Super Cup has been held in the Middle Eastern country.

Two years ago, Barca lost a dramatic semi-final to Atletico Madrid when the King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, hosted the event. Due to COVID-19, the 2021 Super Cup was relocated to Andalusia, but now it is back in Saudi Arabia, this time in Riyadh, a city that Barca are returning to less than a month after appearing at Mrsool Park to contest the Maradona Cup with Boca Juniors of Argentina.

Five FC Barcelona players were declared fit and available for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Head coach Xavi Hernandez can now call upon Ronald Araujo, Ansu Fati, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ferran Torres with the latter in with the chance to make his first appearance for Barca since joining from Manchester City.

Five FC Barcelona players were declared fit and available for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Head coach Xavi Hernandez can now call upon Ronald Araujo, Ansu Fati, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Ferran Torres with the latter in with the chance to make his first appearance for Barca since joining from Manchester City. On Wednesday, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid meet for the second time in the 2021/22 season, this time in the Spanish Super Cup, which is being played this week in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh. Barca are competing as the current Copa del Rey winners, and Madrid as last year`s Liga runners-up. The prize for the victors is a place in Sunday`s final against either the defending Liga champions, Atletico Madrid, or beaten cup finalists Athletic Club, who will be meeting in the second semi-final on Thursday. Read Also | Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik passes away at 27 in a car crash All three of the games are being played in the 68,752 capacity King Fahd International Stadium. This is the second time that the Spanish Super Cup has been held in the Middle Eastern country. Two years ago, Barca lost a dramatic semi-final to Atletico Madrid when the King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, hosted the event. Due to COVID-19, the 2021 Super Cup was relocated to Andalusia, but now it is back in Saudi Arabia, this time in Riyadh, a city that Barca are returning to less than a month after appearing at Mrsool Park to contest the Maradona Cup with Boca Juniors of Argentina.

El Clasico: Barcelona get injury boost as five players declared fit for Spanish Super Cup clash vs Real Madrid

Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik has died in a car accident at the age of 27 on Tuesday.Calik played eight times for the Turkish national team between 2015 and 2017. The defender began his career at Genclerbirligi after progressing through the club`s youth ranks in 2011 and joined Konyaspor after a three-year stint at Galatasaray in 2020.He made 51 appearances for the Super Lig club, Konyaspor, prior to his passing.

After learning of Calik`s death, the Turkish FA said in a statement: "It is with deep sadness that we learned that Ahmet Calik, football player of Ittifak Holding Konyaspor, who also played in our national team, passed away as a result of a traffic accident. May Allah have mercy on the deceased. Our condolences to his family, relatives, Ittifak Holding Konyaspor Club and the Turkish football community."Muharrem Kasapoglu, Turkey`s minister for sport as per goal.com, said: "I have learned with deep regret that our national football player Ahmet Calik, who plays for Konyaspor, passed away in a traffic accident on the Ankara - Nigde highway."

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"May God have mercy on the late Ahmet Calik, who also served in our national team. My condolences to his family, Konyaspor and the entire football community."Calik made his international debut for Turkey against Greece back in 2015 and was named in their Euro 2016 squad. Konyaspor on Twitter said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our football player Ahmet Calik, who has won the love of our fans and our city since the first day he came to our Konyaspor. Condolences to all of us, especially to the family of our football player Ahmet Calik."Galatasaray said: "It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of our former football player Ahmet Calik. May God have mercy on the deceased, we express our condolences to his grieving family, loved ones and Turkish sports community."

Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik has died in a car accident at the age of 27 on Tuesday.Calik played eight times for the Turkish national team between 2015 and 2017.

Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik has died in a car accident at the age of 27 on Tuesday.Calik played eight times for the Turkish national team between 2015 and 2017. The defender began his career at Genclerbirligi after progressing through the club`s youth ranks in 2011 and joined Konyaspor after a three-year stint at Galatasaray in 2020.He made 51 appearances for the Super Lig club, Konyaspor, prior to his passing. After learning of Calik`s death, the Turkish FA said in a statement: "It is with deep sadness that we learned that Ahmet Calik, football player of Ittifak Holding Konyaspor, who also played in our national team, passed away as a result of a traffic accident. May Allah have mercy on the deceased. Our condolences to his family, relatives, Ittifak Holding Konyaspor Club and the Turkish football community."Muharrem Kasapoglu, Turkey`s minister for sport as per goal.com, said: "I have learned with deep regret that our national football player Ahmet Calik, who plays for Konyaspor, passed away in a traffic accident on the Ankara - Nigde highway." ALSO READ | Scott McTominay seals narrow FA Cup win for Manchester United over Aston Villa "May God have mercy on the late Ahmet Calik, who also served in our national team. My condolences to his family, Konyaspor and the entire football community."Calik made his international debut for Turkey against Greece back in 2015 and was named in their Euro 2016 squad. Konyaspor on Twitter said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our football player Ahmet Calik, who has won the love of our fans and our city since the first day he came to our Konyaspor. Condolences to all of us, especially to the family of our football player Ahmet Calik."Galatasaray said: "It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of our former football player Ahmet Calik. May God have mercy on the deceased, we express our condolences to his grieving family, loved ones and Turkish sports community."

Turkish international footballer Ahmet Calik passes away at 27 in a car crash

The AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has expressed its readiness to stage Asia`s marquee women`s national team competition that kicks off in 10 days.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) President and LOC Chairman Praful Patel shared the tournament`s preparations leading up to the first match day on January 20, 2022.

"All facilities to be used for the prestigious AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022™ are ready. Special care has been taken to make sure the best women footballers in Asia are provided with world-class infrastructure across the three venues and also the training sites," Praful Patel said in a statement.

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"The pitches at all venues have been significantly upgraded to support modern football. Other facilities including dressing rooms, media tribunes, broadcast compounds and hospitality areas have been refurbished.

In Pune, new floodlights with LED panels have been installed. And now, we cannot wait for the teams to come to India and play their best game," he added.

The AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 will be played in three stadiums at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai and the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune with all three venues and training facilities spruced up.

Over in Pune, new training facilities were reconstructed for the AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 while the pitch at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex has been upgraded, and new floodlights installed.

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Two additional practice pitches have also been constructed to cater to the tournament. Apart from that the team dressing rooms, hospitality areas and the media tribune have been upgraded.

The D.Y. Patil Stadium, the venue of the Final on February 6, has seen renovation of floodlights while the pitch has been upgraded to meet international standards.Meanwhile, the Navi Mumbai Sports Association (NMSA) Training Ground and the Yashwant Rao Chavan Ground in Navi Mumbai have revamped their team dressing rooms and both training grounds have been upgraded with new and modern facilities.

Additionally, two training grounds have been built at the CIDCO Centre of Excellence in Navi Mumbai - increasing the training pitches to six for the teams in the tournament.

The pitch at the Mumbai Football Arena stadium, the venue of six matches, has also been upgraded as well as the dressing rooms, hospitality area, referee rooms and media tribune, further underlining the LOC`s commitment to provide teams with the best facilities.

Asia`s leading 12 teams will battle for the top honours in the showpiece with the top five finishers joining 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup co-hosts Australia at the global finals.

The AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has expressed its readiness to stage Asia`s marquee women`s national team competition that kicks off in 10 days.

The AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has expressed its readiness to stage Asia`s marquee women`s national team competition that kicks off in 10 days. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) President and LOC Chairman Praful Patel shared the tournament`s preparations leading up to the first match day on January 20, 2022. "All facilities to be used for the prestigious AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022™ are ready. Special care has been taken to make sure the best women footballers in Asia are provided with world-class infrastructure across the three venues and also the training sites," Praful Patel said in a statement. Read Also | Arsenal crash out, Liverpool and Tottenham survive FA Cup scares "The pitches at all venues have been significantly upgraded to support modern football. Other facilities including dressing rooms, media tribunes, broadcast compounds and hospitality areas have been refurbished. In Pune, new floodlights with LED panels have been installed. And now, we cannot wait for the teams to come to India and play their best game," he added. The AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 will be played in three stadiums at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, the Mumbai Football Arena in Mumbai and the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune with all three venues and training facilities spruced up. Over in Pune, new training facilities were reconstructed for the AFC Women`s Asian Cup India 2022 while the pitch at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex has been upgraded, and new floodlights installed. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blaster bring an end to Hyderabad FC's unbeaten streak, go on top of points table Two additional practice pitches have also been constructed to cater to the tournament. Apart from that the team dressing rooms, hospitality areas and the media tribune have been upgraded. The D.Y. Patil Stadium, the venue of the Final on February 6, has seen renovation of floodlights while the pitch has been upgraded to meet international standards.Meanwhile, the Navi Mumbai Sports Association (NMSA) Training Ground and the Yashwant Rao Chavan Ground in Navi Mumbai have revamped their team dressing rooms and both training grounds have been upgraded with new and modern facilities. Additionally, two training grounds have been built at the CIDCO Centre of Excellence in Navi Mumbai - increasing the training pitches to six for the teams in the tournament. The pitch at the Mumbai Football Arena stadium, the venue of six matches, has also been upgraded as well as the dressing rooms, hospitality area, referee rooms and media tribune, further underlining the LOC`s commitment to provide teams with the best facilities. Asia`s leading 12 teams will battle for the top honours in the showpiece with the top five finishers joining 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup co-hosts Australia at the global finals.

'India is ready', for the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2022, says AIFF president Praful Patel

Kerala Blasters brought Hyderabad FC`s unbeaten run to an end and jumped to the top of the table with a 1-0 win in the Indian Super League at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday.

Alvaro Vazquez (42nd) scored a first-half goal which eventually proved to be the winner as Kerala stretched their unbeaten streak to nine games, moving to the top of the points table with a better goal difference than Mumbai City FC, both being on 17 points from 10 games.

This was the first time they went top of the ISL table, for the first time since the last seven years. Hyderabad, on the other hand, saw their eight-game unbeaten run come to an end as they dropped to the third in the table having 16 points from 10 matches.

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Hyderabad had a chance to take the lead early on when Edu Garcia`s free-kick was deflected onto the crossbar by Prabhsukhan Gill after the ball was curled expertly over the wall.

Bartholomew Ogbeche was shown his fourth yellow card in the next minute, meaning he will miss the next match. Kattimani pulled off a brilliant save in the 24th minute to deny Jorge Diaz as Kerala kept knocking on the door.

As the match progressed, both teams tried to carve open a clear-cut chance before Vazquez helped the yellow shirts nose ahead.

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A long throw-in was met by Sahal Abdul Samad who flicked it behind in the danger area where Vazquez struck a sweet volley to beat the keeper all ends up.

Hyderabad came close through Ogbeche on the cusp of halftime but the Nigerian shot wide.

In the second period, Hyderabad tried to up the ante but failed to muster any real opportunity in front of goal barring one where Kerala skipper Jessel Carneiro kept his side in the lead with a goalline clearance.&nbsp;

Kerala Blasters brought Hyderabad FC`s unbeaten run to an end and jumped to the top of the table with a 1-0 win in the Indian Super League at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday.

Kerala Blasters brought Hyderabad FC`s unbeaten run to an end and jumped to the top of the table with a 1-0 win in the Indian Super League at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Sunday. Alvaro Vazquez (42nd) scored a first-half goal which eventually proved to be the winner as Kerala stretched their unbeaten streak to nine games, moving to the top of the points table with a better goal difference than Mumbai City FC, both being on 17 points from 10 games. This was the first time they went top of the ISL table, for the first time since the last seven years. Hyderabad, on the other hand, saw their eight-game unbeaten run come to an end as they dropped to the third in the table having 16 points from 10 matches. Read Also | Antonio Puertas' goal helps Granada pull off 1-1 draw against Barcelona in La Liga Hyderabad had a chance to take the lead early on when Edu Garcia`s free-kick was deflected onto the crossbar by Prabhsukhan Gill after the ball was curled expertly over the wall. Bartholomew Ogbeche was shown his fourth yellow card in the next minute, meaning he will miss the next match. Kattimani pulled off a brilliant save in the 24th minute to deny Jorge Diaz as Kerala kept knocking on the door. As the match progressed, both teams tried to carve open a clear-cut chance before Vazquez helped the yellow shirts nose ahead. Also Read | Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr shine as Real Madrid thrash Valencia 4-1 in La Liga A long throw-in was met by Sahal Abdul Samad who flicked it behind in the danger area where Vazquez struck a sweet volley to beat the keeper all ends up. Hyderabad came close through Ogbeche on the cusp of halftime but the Nigerian shot wide. In the second period, Hyderabad tried to up the ante but failed to muster any real opportunity in front of goal barring one where Kerala skipper Jessel Carneiro kept his side in the lead with a goalline clearance.

ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters bring an end to Hyderabad FC's unbeaten streak, go on top of points table

Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani is staying at the club until the end of the season, interim manager Ralf Rangnick said.

Cavani`s contract expires at the end of June and the Uruguay international had been linked with Barcelona and Juventus, while some reports said the 34-year-old could return to South America during the January transfer window.

"Edi said that I can rely on him until the end of the season and that he will continue to give his very best in order to be a role model for the younger players," Rangnick told the United website.

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"If he should play from the start he`s always happy to do so and to give his all but if even if he is not playing he will try to be the best possible role model for the other players.

"Edi is one of those players with a very strong mentality. He has vast amounts of experience and a good work ethic that can also set a good example for the rest of the players."

United host Aston Villa in the third round of the FA Cup later on Monday before travelling to Villa Park in the Premier League on Saturday

Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani is staying at the club until the end of the season, interim manager Ralf Rangnick said. Cavani`s contract expires at the end of June and the Uruguay international had been linked with Barcelona and Juventus, while some reports said the 34-year-old could return to South America during the January transfer window.

Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani is staying at the club until the end of the season, interim manager Ralf Rangnick said. Cavani`s contract expires at the end of June and the Uruguay international had been linked with Barcelona and Juventus, while some reports said the 34-year-old could return to South America during the January transfer window. "Edi said that I can rely on him until the end of the season and that he will continue to give his very best in order to be a role model for the younger players," Rangnick told the United website. Read Also | Antonio Puertas' goal helps Granada pull off 1-1 draw against Barcelona in La Liga "If he should play from the start he`s always happy to do so and to give his all but if even if he is not playing he will try to be the best possible role model for the other players. "Edi is one of those players with a very strong mentality. He has vast amounts of experience and a good work ethic that can also set a good example for the rest of the players." United host Aston Villa in the third round of the FA Cup later on Monday before travelling to Villa Park in the Premier League on Saturday

Rangnick: Edinson Cavani to stay at Manchester United until end of season

Arsenal became the highest-profile casualties of the FA Cup third round as the 14-time winners lost 1-0 at Nottingham Forest, but Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur avoided early exits after scares against lower-league sides on Sunday.

Forest repeated their third-round win over Arsenal in 2018 thanks to substitute Lewis Grabban`s 83rd-minute finish. 
Liverpool came from a goal down to win 4-1 against third-tier Shrewsbury Town, while Tottenham trailed until the 74th minute at home to third-tier Morecambe before winning 3-1.

A lacklustre Arsenal failed to muster a shot on target and could have no complaints about only their second third-round defeat in 26 seasons.

Forest more than matched their visitors and Grabban, surprisingly left on the bench at the start, made a huge impact as he stretched out a leg to convert a Ryan Yates cross and seal a fourth-round Midlands derby against top-flight Leicester City.

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"I`m really proud of the boys, pleased with the performance. It`s brilliant to get through and I hope the players now really believe in what we`re doing," said Forest boss Steve Cooper. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta offered a frank assessment.

"They won, they scored a goal and we didn`t. We were not good enough and we have to apologise for it," he said. 
Liverpool started with few first-team regulars and five youngsters and were behind in the 27th minute when Daniel Udoh slid in Nathanael Ogbeta`s cross from close range.

Teenaged winger Kaide Gordon equalised seven minutes later with a calm finish and Fabinho gave Liverpool the lead just before halftime from the penalty spot.

Substitute Roberto Firmino scored with a brilliant backheel in the 78th minute and Fabinho wrapped it up with his second goal in stoppage time, blasting in from a tight angle.

"When you get the first goal against you, so many things can happen but I liked the way we responded," manager Juergen Klopp, who returned to the touchline after his recovery from COVID-19, told the BBC. 
Shrewsbury manager Steve Cotterill said: "I don`t think it was a 4-1 game. But, once they got the third goal we probably weren`t going to get back into the game, being a realist."

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TOTTENHAM`S LATE RALLY

Antonio Conte`s Tottenham left the field to loud boos at halftime as they trailed to Morecambe, courtesy of Anthony O`Connor`s sharp volley after being left unmarked from a corner in the 33rd minute.

It was only when Harry Kane, Lucas Moura and Oliver Skipp came off the bench midway through the second half that the eight-times winners began to look like avoiding a shock exit.

Harry Winks equalised with a free kick that was intended as a cross but flew in and Moura then stole possession in midfield before racing through to round keeper Trevor Carson and slot in.

Kane wrapped up the win with a neat finish after being smartly picked out by Giovani Lo Celso. 
"We deserve to win because in these type of games you have to show your strength," Conte said. "They defended with 11 players and that`s normal in these games, but it is important to find the right solution."

EASY FOR WEST HAM

West Ham United defeated Leeds 2-0 after Manuel Lanzini scored the opener from close range in the 34th minute and Jarrod Bowen scored in the final minute of stoppage-time following Michail Antonio`s pass.

West Ham face a trip to minor league Kidderminster Harriers, the lowest-ranked side remaining, in round four. 
Wolverhampton Wanderers enjoyed a 3-0 win against Sheffield United with two goals from Daniel Podence and another from Nelson Semedo, while Premier League bottom club Norwich City earned a morale-boosting 1-0 win at Charlton Athletic thanks to a second-half goal from Milot Rashica.

Two fourth-tier sides had their runs ended as Stoke City beat Leyton Orient 2-0 and Luton Town thrashed Harrogate Town 4-0. Cardiff City defeated Preston North End 2-1 in extra time.

Arsenal became the highest-profile casualties of the FA Cup third round as the 14-time winners lost 1-0 at Nottingham Forest, but Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur avoided early exits after scares against lower-league sides on Sunday.

Arsenal became the highest-profile casualties of the FA Cup third round as the 14-time winners lost 1-0 at Nottingham Forest, but Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur avoided early exits after scares against lower-league sides on Sunday. Forest repeated their third-round win over Arsenal in 2018 thanks to substitute Lewis Grabban`s 83rd-minute finish. Liverpool came from a goal down to win 4-1 against third-tier Shrewsbury Town, while Tottenham trailed until the 74th minute at home to third-tier Morecambe before winning 3-1. A lacklustre Arsenal failed to muster a shot on target and could have no complaints about only their second third-round defeat in 26 seasons. Forest more than matched their visitors and Grabban, surprisingly left on the bench at the start, made a huge impact as he stretched out a leg to convert a Ryan Yates cross and seal a fourth-round Midlands derby against top-flight Leicester City. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blaster bring an end to Hyderabad FC's unbeaten streak, go on top of points table "I`m really proud of the boys, pleased with the performance. It`s brilliant to get through and I hope the players now really believe in what we`re doing," said Forest boss Steve Cooper. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta offered a frank assessment. "They won, they scored a goal and we didn`t. We were not good enough and we have to apologise for it," he said. Liverpool started with few first-team regulars and five youngsters and were behind in the 27th minute when Daniel Udoh slid in Nathanael Ogbeta`s cross from close range. Teenaged winger Kaide Gordon equalised seven minutes later with a calm finish and Fabinho gave Liverpool the lead just before halftime from the penalty spot. Substitute Roberto Firmino scored with a brilliant backheel in the 78th minute and Fabinho wrapped it up with his second goal in stoppage time, blasting in from a tight angle. "When you get the first goal against you, so many things can happen but I liked the way we responded," manager Juergen Klopp, who returned to the touchline after his recovery from COVID-19, told the BBC. Shrewsbury manager Steve Cotterill said: "I don`t think it was a 4-1 game. But, once they got the third goal we probably weren`t going to get back into the game, being a realist." Read Also | Antonio Puertas' goal helps Granada pull off 1-1 draw against Barcelona in La Liga TOTTENHAM`S LATE RALLY Antonio Conte`s Tottenham left the field to loud boos at halftime as they trailed to Morecambe, courtesy of Anthony O`Connor`s sharp volley after being left unmarked from a corner in the 33rd minute. It was only when Harry Kane, Lucas Moura and Oliver Skipp came off the bench midway through the second half that the eight-times winners began to look like avoiding a shock exit. Harry Winks equalised with a free kick that was intended as a cross but flew in and Moura then stole possession in midfield before racing through to round keeper Trevor Carson and slot in. Kane wrapped up the win with a neat finish after being smartly picked out by Giovani Lo Celso. "We deserve to win because in these type of games you have to show your strength," Conte said. "They defended with 11 players and that`s normal in these games, but it is important to find the right solution." EASY FOR WEST HAM West Ham United defeated Leeds 2-0 after Manuel Lanzini scored the opener from close range in the 34th minute and Jarrod Bowen scored in the final minute of stoppage-time following Michail Antonio`s pass. West Ham face a trip to minor league Kidderminster Harriers, the lowest-ranked side remaining, in round four. Wolverhampton Wanderers enjoyed a 3-0 win against Sheffield United with two goals from Daniel Podence and another from Nelson Semedo, while Premier League bottom club Norwich City earned a morale-boosting 1-0 win at Charlton Athletic thanks to a second-half goal from Milot Rashica. Two fourth-tier sides had their runs ended as Stoke City beat Leyton Orient 2-0 and Luton Town thrashed Harrogate Town 4-0. Cardiff City defeated Preston North End 2-1 in extra time.

Arsenal crash out, Liverpool and Tottenham survive FA Cup scares

A stunning late goal by Antonio Puertas gave Granada a shock 1-1 draw against Barcelona in LaLiga on Saturday. Striker Luuk de Jong`s second-half header, following a perfect cross from Dani Alves, gave Barca the lead but Puertas pulled the home side level with his 89th-minute goal.

The Catalan giants were reduced to 10 players when Gavi was sent off in the 79th minute for fouling Alex Collado. "It all got very complicated after the red card," Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters. "We managed the game well in the second half, especially after the goal, but we were too anxious. After Gavi was sent off it was difficult for us to control the ball."

Barcelona are sixth in the standings with 32 points from 20 games, 14 points behind leaders Real Madrid. Granada, who are unbeaten in LaLiga since late November, are 12th with 24 points.

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De Jong and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, two of the most criticised Barca players in the first half of the season, were the bright spots for the Catalans for the second consecutive league match.

The Dutch forward, who had a goal disallowed by the video referee for a close offside, almost scored minutes later with a bicycle kick for the second week in a row, while Ter Stegen made a marvellous one-handed save of a powerful, low shot from Granada’s Darwin Machis.

Alves, making his first league appearance following his return to Barca after six years, helped the team with an assist and two crucial defensive clearances.

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The 38-year-old right back, who played in the 2-1 win at Linares in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, became the oldest player to feature for Barcelona in a league match, surpassing Jose Manuel Pinto by 57 days.

Barca dominated most of the game but Granada redoubled their efforts when teenager Gavi was sent off after collecting a second yellow card.

Granada pressed until Puertas was in the right place at the right time to strike, sending a left-footed shot into Ter Stegen`s top left corner.

A stunning late goal by Antonio Puertas gave Granada a shock 1-1 draw against Barcelona in LaLiga on Saturday. Striker Luuk de Jong`s second-half header, following a perfect cross from Dani Alves, gave Barca the lead but Puertas pulled the home side level with his 89th-minute goal.

A stunning late goal by Antonio Puertas gave Granada a shock 1-1 draw against Barcelona in LaLiga on Saturday. Striker Luuk de Jong`s second-half header, following a perfect cross from Dani Alves, gave Barca the lead but Puertas pulled the home side level with his 89th-minute goal. The Catalan giants were reduced to 10 players when Gavi was sent off in the 79th minute for fouling Alex Collado. "It all got very complicated after the red card," Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters. "We managed the game well in the second half, especially after the goal, but we were too anxious. After Gavi was sent off it was difficult for us to control the ball." Barcelona are sixth in the standings with 32 points from 20 games, 14 points behind leaders Real Madrid. Granada, who are unbeaten in LaLiga since late November, are 12th with 24 points. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19 De Jong and goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, two of the most criticised Barca players in the first half of the season, were the bright spots for the Catalans for the second consecutive league match. The Dutch forward, who had a goal disallowed by the video referee for a close offside, almost scored minutes later with a bicycle kick for the second week in a row, while Ter Stegen made a marvellous one-handed save of a powerful, low shot from Granada’s Darwin Machis. Alves, making his first league appearance following his return to Barca after six years, helped the team with an assist and two crucial defensive clearances. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach score two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga The 38-year-old right back, who played in the 2-1 win at Linares in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, became the oldest player to feature for Barcelona in a league match, surpassing Jose Manuel Pinto by 57 days. Barca dominated most of the game but Granada redoubled their efforts when teenager Gavi was sent off after collecting a second yellow card. Granada pressed until Puertas was in the right place at the right time to strike, sending a left-footed shot into Ter Stegen`s top left corner.

Antonio Puertas' goal helps Granada pull off 1-1 draw against Barcelona in La Liga

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). 
Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half.

Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box.

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"It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." 
Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday.

It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. 
After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box.

The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen.

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Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio.

Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe. Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half. Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19 "It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday. It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box. The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach score two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio. Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr shine as Real Madrid thrash Valencia 4-1 in La Liga

The Africa cup of nations was supposed to kick off on Sunday in Cameroon, but it is under the cloud of the pandemic surge for the second time now.

COVID scare for Africa cup of nations: Three players in Senegal test positive

The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19.

 
The match was to be held at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda and the league will now look to reschedule the fixture to a later date.

"Indian Super League (ISL) has decided to postpone Match No 53 between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC scheduled to be played today, Saturday, January 8, 2022, at PJN Stadium in Fatorda," the ISL said in a statement.

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"The decision has been taken in consultation with the League`s medical team after an ATK Mohun Bagan player tested positive for Covid-19," it added.

The ISL will work closely with the medical experts to monitor and ensure the safety of all the players and support staff in the squad and others involved, the release said.

The ongoing season of ISL is being held behind closed doors, across three stadiums in Goa due to the pandemic.

The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19.

The match between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC, scheduled for Saturday evening, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) has been postponed by the organisers after a player from the Kolkata-based team tested positive for Covid-19. The match was to be held at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda and the league will now look to reschedule the fixture to a later date. "Indian Super League (ISL) has decided to postpone Match No 53 between ATK Mohun Bagan and Odisha FC scheduled to be played today, Saturday, January 8, 2022, at PJN Stadium in Fatorda," the ISL said in a statement. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach scores two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga "The decision has been taken in consultation with the League`s medical team after an ATK Mohun Bagan player tested positive for Covid-19," it added. The ISL will work closely with the medical experts to monitor and ensure the safety of all the players and support staff in the squad and others involved, the release said. The ongoing season of ISL is being held behind closed doors, across three stadiums in Goa due to the pandemic.

ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19

A makeshift Bayern Munich team conceded two goals in four minutes to suffer a shock 2-1 loss to visitors Borussia Moenchengladbach on Friday as the Bundesliga resumed following a three-week winter break.

Missing nine players through COVID-19 infections and more to Africa Cup of Nations duties and injuries, league leaders Bayern still easily bossed Gladbach around for some 30 minutes and took the lead through top scorer Robert Lewandowski in the 18th. 
But the visitors sensationally struck twice with their first two chances of the game, with a Florian Neuhaus volley in the 27th minute and Stefan Lainer`s glancing header shortly after turning the game around.

Top scorer Lewandowski twice hit the woodwork as Bayern desperately pushed for an equaliser and missed a bagful of chances. 
Bayern are on 43 points with Borussia Dortmund, who travel to Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, in second place on 34. 
"The first half was kind of strange," Bayern`s Thomas Mueller said. "I don`t know how long we completely controlled the game and then out of nothing comes the 1-1.

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"We still created enough chances. Luck was not on our side and at the end of the day you have to convert your chances. This defeat is bitter. We have to digest it."

Conditions were far from perfect for Bayern`s season restart, with no fans allowed in because of COVID-19 restrictions and a string of big name absences including keeper Manuel Neuer, Lucas Hernandez, Leon Goretzka, Leroy Sane, Alphonso Davies and Kingsley Coman among others.

But they still enjoyed a strong start and Lewandowski, who came close in the 15th minute, was on target a little later with his 20th goal of the season, after he shook off his marker with a brilliant first touch and fired in with a powerful shot.

Bayern have now scored in each of their last 65 Bundesliga games, equalling the league record set by themselves in 2014. 
But out of nowhere the visitors levelled with Neuhaus volleying in with the Bayern defence disorganised.

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They then went ahead in the 31st when Stefan Lainer headed in from a corner, with Bayern`s backline again out of place. 
Gladbach, who also crushed Bayern 5-0 in the German Cup in October, could have added a third with Neuhaus and Breel Embolo just before the break.

Lewandowski rattled the post with a shot in first half stoppage time and then hit the crossbar just past the hour mark as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.

Running out of options from the bench, Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann brought on Paul Wanner, who at 16 years and 16 days became the youngest Bayern player to make his Bundesliga debut, and 17-year-old Lucas Copado, but the champions could not find an equaliser.

A makeshift Bayern Munich team conceded two goals in four minutes to suffer a shock 2-1 loss to visitors Borussia Moenchengladbach on Friday as the Bundesliga resumed following a three-week winter break.

A makeshift Bayern Munich team conceded two goals in four minutes to suffer a shock 2-1 loss to visitors Borussia Moenchengladbach on Friday as the Bundesliga resumed following a three-week winter break. Missing nine players through COVID-19 infections and more to Africa Cup of Nations duties and injuries, league leaders Bayern still easily bossed Gladbach around for some 30 minutes and took the lead through top scorer Robert Lewandowski in the 18th. But the visitors sensationally struck twice with their first two chances of the game, with a Florian Neuhaus volley in the 27th minute and Stefan Lainer`s glancing header shortly after turning the game around. Top scorer Lewandowski twice hit the woodwork as Bayern desperately pushed for an equaliser and missed a bagful of chances. Bayern are on 43 points with Borussia Dortmund, who travel to Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday, in second place on 34. "The first half was kind of strange," Bayern`s Thomas Mueller said. "I don`t know how long we completely controlled the game and then out of nothing comes the 1-1. Read Also | Mumbai City FC regain top spot after goalless draw with SC East Bengal "We still created enough chances. Luck was not on our side and at the end of the day you have to convert your chances. This defeat is bitter. We have to digest it." Conditions were far from perfect for Bayern`s season restart, with no fans allowed in because of COVID-19 restrictions and a string of big name absences including keeper Manuel Neuer, Lucas Hernandez, Leon Goretzka, Leroy Sane, Alphonso Davies and Kingsley Coman among others. But they still enjoyed a strong start and Lewandowski, who came close in the 15th minute, was on target a little later with his 20th goal of the season, after he shook off his marker with a brilliant first touch and fired in with a powerful shot. Bayern have now scored in each of their last 65 Bundesliga games, equalling the league record set by themselves in 2014. But out of nowhere the visitors levelled with Neuhaus volleying in with the Bayern defence disorganised. Read Also | Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United? CR7's future at Old Trafford depends on new manager - Report They then went ahead in the 31st when Stefan Lainer headed in from a corner, with Bayern`s backline again out of place. Gladbach, who also crushed Bayern 5-0 in the German Cup in October, could have added a third with Neuhaus and Breel Embolo just before the break. Lewandowski rattled the post with a shot in first half stoppage time and then hit the crossbar just past the hour mark as the hosts pushed for an equaliser. Running out of options from the bench, Bayern coach Julian Nagelsmann brought on Paul Wanner, who at 16 years and 16 days became the youngest Bayern player to make his Bundesliga debut, and 17-year-old Lucas Copado, but the champions could not find an equaliser.

Borussia Moenchengladbach score two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga

Aston Villa have signed Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho on a loan deal until the end of the season from Barcelona, the Premier League club said on Friday. He will be reunited with former captain Steven Gerrard, with the pair playing together at Anfield from 2013-15 and Gerrard now managing Villa.

Coutinho, who has won two league trophies and two Copa del Rey titles with Barcelona, has played 16 times for the club this season in all competitions and scored two goals.

The 29-year-old previously spent six years in the Premier League playing for Liverpool, where he made over 200 appearances and scored 54 goals. Gerrard heaped praise on Coutinho on Thursday.

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"If you go and have a look at his Wiki page you`ll see a serial winner wherever he goes. He`s won 63 caps for Brazil, played for Barcelona and was incredible at Liverpool," Gerrard said. "I don`t think you get a nickname of `The Magician` if you`re not a special footballer."

The agreement, subject to a medical and a work permit being granted, includes the option to make the transfer permanent, Villa said. 
Coutinho joined Barcelona in January 2018 for approximately 142 million pounds ($192 million) but has not been able to establish himself in the first team at Camp Nou and he spent the 2019-20 season on loan at Bayern Munich.

He scored 26 goals in 106 appearances for Barcelona and has 18 months left on his contract, which expires at the end of the 2022-21 season. Villa are 13th in the Premier League standings and return to action on Jan. 15 when they host Manchester United.

Aston Villa have signed Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho on a loan deal until the end of the season from Barcelona, the Premier League club said on Friday.

Aston Villa have signed Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho on a loan deal until the end of the season from Barcelona, the Premier League club said on Friday. He will be reunited with former captain Steven Gerrard, with the pair playing together at Anfield from 2013-15 and Gerrard now managing Villa. Coutinho, who has won two league trophies and two Copa del Rey titles with Barcelona, has played 16 times for the club this season in all competitions and scored two goals. The 29-year-old previously spent six years in the Premier League playing for Liverpool, where he made over 200 appearances and scored 54 goals. Gerrard heaped praise on Coutinho on Thursday. Read Also: Nick Kyrgios reacts to Novak Djokovic's treatment, says Australia must 'do better' "If you go and have a look at his Wiki page you`ll see a serial winner wherever he goes. He`s won 63 caps for Brazil, played for Barcelona and was incredible at Liverpool," Gerrard said. "I don`t think you get a nickname of `The Magician` if you`re not a special footballer." The agreement, subject to a medical and a work permit being granted, includes the option to make the transfer permanent, Villa said. Coutinho joined Barcelona in January 2018 for approximately 142 million pounds ($192 million) but has not been able to establish himself in the first team at Camp Nou and he spent the 2019-20 season on loan at Bayern Munich. He scored 26 goals in 106 appearances for Barcelona and has 18 months left on his contract, which expires at the end of the 2022-21 season. Villa are 13th in the Premier League standings and return to action on Jan. 15 when they host Manchester United.

Philippe Coutinho returns to Premier League as he joins Aston Villa on loan from FC Barcelona

Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly considering leaving the club at the end of the ongoing 2021-22 season. Ronaldo had joined United from Juventus ahead of the start of the ongoing season and has had a fine start to life at Old Trafford. He has so far scored 14 goals in 22 appearances for the club across competitions.

However, his on-field exploits have not been enough for the club to solidify their spot in the top four of the Premier League points table as United continue to struggle for consistency. The Red Devils suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Wolves in their last Premier League outing and are currently placed seventh with 31 points from 19 matches this season.

It had been a fairytale return to United for the Portuguese icon after a nightmarish season at Juventus. However, Ronaldo's time at Old Trafford can end soon as he is reportedly considering leaving the club amid poor results and his unhappiness over interim manager Ralf Rangnick's tactics and training methods.

As per a report in Daily Star, Ronaldo's future at Manchester United depends on who will the club appoint as their permanent manager once Rangnick's tenure as the interim boss is over at the end of the current season. The report also states that Manchester United's new&nbsp;executive officer Richard Arnold will be under pressure to deliver the right managerial appointment.

Ronaldo might not have had set the season on fire for United in the Premier League but he has been among the goals. The Portuguese icon is currently sitting 4th on the list of highest goal-scorers this season with eight goals to his name in the league.

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PSG boss Mauricio Pochettinho's name has been doing the rounds for a while now to become the next manager of Manchester United. However, the likes of Erik Ten Haag, Brendan Rodgers and others are also said to be in consideration. It remains to be seen who will United appoint as their full-time manager at the end of the season.

&nbsp;

Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly considering leaving the club at the end of the ongoing 2021-22 season. Ronaldo had joined United from Juventus ahead of the start of the ongoing season and has had a fine start to life at Old Trafford.

Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly considering leaving the club at the end of the ongoing 2021-22 season. Ronaldo had joined United from Juventus ahead of the start of the ongoing season and has had a fine start to life at Old Trafford. He has so far scored 14 goals in 22 appearances for the club across competitions. However, his on-field exploits have not been enough for the club to solidify their spot in the top four of the Premier League points table as United continue to struggle for consistency. The Red Devils suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Wolves in their last Premier League outing and are currently placed seventh with 31 points from 19 matches this season. It had been a fairytale return to United for the Portuguese icon after a nightmarish season at Juventus. However, Ronaldo's time at Old Trafford can end soon as he is reportedly considering leaving the club amid poor results and his unhappiness over interim manager Ralf Rangnick's tactics and training methods. As per a report in Daily Star, Ronaldo's future at Manchester United depends on who will the club appoint as their permanent manager once Rangnick's tenure as the interim boss is over at the end of the current season. The report also states that Manchester United's new executive officer Richard Arnold will be under pressure to deliver the right managerial appointment. Ronaldo might not have had set the season on fire for United in the Premier League but he has been among the goals. The Portuguese icon is currently sitting 4th on the list of highest goal-scorers this season with eight goals to his name in the league. Also Read: Philippe Coutinho returns to Premier League as he joins Aston Villa on loan from FC Barcelona PSG boss Mauricio Pochettinho's name has been doing the rounds for a while now to become the next manager of Manchester United. However, the likes of Erik Ten Haag, Brendan Rodgers and others are also said to be in consideration. It remains to be seen who will United appoint as their full-time manager at the end of the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United? CR7's future at Old Trafford depends on new manager - Report

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo.

"Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-returns-to-paris-after-testing-negative-for-covid-19-to-resume-training-in-coming-days-442682">Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days</a>

Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp.

Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss Friday`s FA Cup third-round match away to fourth-tier Swindon Town after testing positive for COVID-19, the Premier League club said on Thursday. City said that Guardiola returned a positive test on Tuesday along with assistant Juanma Lillo. "Both are now isolating, along with a number of other positive cases within the City first team bubble," City said in a statement, adding that assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell will take charge of the team for Friday`s game. Seven first-team players and 14 backroom staff are isolating for COVID-19 related reasons, the club said. City are top of the Premier League table on 53 points after 21 matches, 10 points above second-placed Chelsea, whom they host in a league match on Jan. 15 after facing Swindon. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days Earlier on Thursday, Burnley said that manager Sean Dyche will miss their FA Cup third-round tie at home to second-tier Huddersfield Town on Saturday after testing positive for COVID-19. Guardiola and Dyche are the latest Premier League managers to test positive in recent weeks after Aston Villa`s Steven Gerrard, Newcastle United`s Eddie Howe, Crystal Palace`s Patrick Vieira, Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta and Liverpool`s Juergen Klopp. Britain on Wednesday reported 194,747 further cases of COVID-19 and 334 more deaths within 28 days of a positive test, according to official data.

Pep Guardiola to sit out of Man City's FA Cup clash against Swindon Town after positive COVID test

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with&nbsp;his PSG squad members in the next few days.&nbsp;<iframe aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="8" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/Indiatoday_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however,&nbsp;his return to France got&nbsp;delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-arsenal-vs-liverpool-semi-final-first-leg-postponed-due-to-covid-19-revised-dates-out-442486">League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out</a>

Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol."&nbsp;

"Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added.&nbsp;

Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from&nbsp;Presnel Kimpembe.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentine-dj-responds-after-being-labelled-murderer-by-fans-over-lionel-messis-positive-covid-19-test-442031">Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test</a>

Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with&nbsp;46 points after 19 matches.&nbsp;PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2.

Argentina's captain and Paris Saint Germain's superstar Lionel Messi has tested negative for the Covid-19 infection and returned to Paris. For the unversed, the 34-year-old footballer had tested positive along with three other PSG players (Juan Bernat, Sergio Rico and Nathan Bitumazala) ahead of the club's French Cup face-off against Vannes on January 2. However, Messi has returned to France from Argentina following his negative test and will also resume training with his PSG squad members in the next few days. He had spent the Christmas break in Argentina with his family members, however, his return to France got delayed due to a positive PCR test shortly after the dawn of the New Year. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Back then, the club had released an official statement and said, "They are currently in isolation and are subject to the appropriate health protocol." "Neymar JR will continue his treatment in Brazil until 9 January with members of the Paris Saint-Germain medical and performance staff. His return to training is still expected to be in about 3 weeks," the statement further added. Messi, the seven-times Ballon d'Or winner, was out of action for PSG's 4-0 victory away to third-tier club Vannes on Monday (January 3) in a French Cup round-of-32 encounter. In his absence, Kylian Mbappe was the star-performer with his hat-trick along with one goal from Presnel Kimpembe. ALSO READ | Argentine DJ responds after being labelled 'murderer' by fans over Lionel Messi's positive COVID-19 test Talking about the Ligue 1 standings, Mauricio Pochettino's team remain atop with 46 points after 19 matches. PSG is followed by Nice (13 points behind the table-toppers), Marseille and Rennes in the top four.

Lionel Messi returns to Paris after testing negative for Covid-19; to resume training in coming days

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies. 
The Blues, who had enough chances to put the tie beyond doubt, swamped the visitors from the start as they sought to book their place in their third final under coach Thomas Tuchel who has yet to mark his first anniversary at Stamford Bridge. After a mix-up in the Spurs defence in the fifth minute, Havertz fired an angled shot that was goal-bound before it went in off the foot of Davinson Sanchez.

Half an hour later, the dominant hosts got their second goal, albeit with a slice of luck, when Japhet Tanganga headed away a Hakim Ziyech free kick, only for the ball to rebound into the Spurs net off Davies` shoulder. 
The win, while not as thumping as it could have been, dented the hopes of Spurs, under former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, of winning a first trophy since lifting the league cup in 2008. In that time, Chelsea have won 12 major trophies including three Premier League and two Champions League titles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-arsenal-vs-liverpool-semi-final-first-leg-postponed-due-to-covid-19-revised-dates-out-442486">League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out</a>

Tuchel restored record signing Romelu Lukaku to the team having dropped him for Sunday`s 2-2 draw with Liverpool as punishment for the Belgian saying in an interview that he was unhappy with his role at Stamford Bridge. 
Lukaku went close with a first-half header, created a great chance for Ziyech after the break which the Moroccan wasted and hit an injury-time shot straight at Hugo Lloris.

Chelsea also welcomed back Timo Werner after a period out with COVID-19. On as a substitute for Havertz at halftime, the German striker flashed a shot just wide and then failed to chip Lloris when clean through. 
Spurs created a few chances in the second half but the only one that really troubled Chelsea came as late as the 90th minute when Bryan Gil, out wide, cut the ball back to fellow substitute Giovani Lo Celso whose shot was saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-kieran-trippier-could-mark-opening-salvo-in-newcastle-uniteds-escape-bid-442462">England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid</a>

Ziyech said he hoped Chelsea would not rue their missed chances to put the tie beyond the reach of Spurs. 
"We forgot to finish the game, a lot of chances. Hopefully we get the job done there," the Moroccan told Sky Sports. 
The second leg of the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is due to take place on Jan. 12 and the winners will face either Arsenal or Liverpool.

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies.

Chelsea seized control of their league cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, beating their London rivals 2-0 in the first leg on Wednesday thanks to an early strike by Kai Havertz and an own goal by Spurs defender Ben Davies. The Blues, who had enough chances to put the tie beyond doubt, swamped the visitors from the start as they sought to book their place in their third final under coach Thomas Tuchel who has yet to mark his first anniversary at Stamford Bridge. After a mix-up in the Spurs defence in the fifth minute, Havertz fired an angled shot that was goal-bound before it went in off the foot of Davinson Sanchez. Half an hour later, the dominant hosts got their second goal, albeit with a slice of luck, when Japhet Tanganga headed away a Hakim Ziyech free kick, only for the ball to rebound into the Spurs net off Davies` shoulder. The win, while not as thumping as it could have been, dented the hopes of Spurs, under former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, of winning a first trophy since lifting the league cup in 2008. In that time, Chelsea have won 12 major trophies including three Premier League and two Champions League titles. ALSO READ | League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out Tuchel restored record signing Romelu Lukaku to the team having dropped him for Sunday`s 2-2 draw with Liverpool as punishment for the Belgian saying in an interview that he was unhappy with his role at Stamford Bridge. Lukaku went close with a first-half header, created a great chance for Ziyech after the break which the Moroccan wasted and hit an injury-time shot straight at Hugo Lloris. Chelsea also welcomed back Timo Werner after a period out with COVID-19. On as a substitute for Havertz at halftime, the German striker flashed a shot just wide and then failed to chip Lloris when clean through. Spurs created a few chances in the second half but the only one that really troubled Chelsea came as late as the 90th minute when Bryan Gil, out wide, cut the ball back to fellow substitute Giovani Lo Celso whose shot was saved by Kepa Arrizabalaga. ALSO READ | England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid Ziyech said he hoped Chelsea would not rue their missed chances to put the tie beyond the reach of Spurs. "We forgot to finish the game, a lot of chances. Hopefully we get the job done there," the Moroccan told Sky Sports. The second leg of the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is due to take place on Jan. 12 and the winners will face either Arsenal or Liverpool.

Chelsea dominate Tottenham Hotspur with 2-0 win in first leg of league cup

Just when one thought the Covid-19 infection had taken a backseat, the cases have once again been on the rise globally especially due to the advent of the Omicron variant. The Covid-19 crisis is being felt once again in the sporting arena as the Arsenal-Liverpool League Cup semi-final's first leg got postponed due to the surge of Covid cases in the latter's camp.

The development was shared by the English Football League (EFL) that Thursday's encounter (January 6) has been postponed. The first of the two semi-finals will now take place at Anfield on January 13 whereas the second and final leg has been scheduled on January 20 at the Emirates.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-kieran-trippier-could-mark-opening-salvo-in-newcastle-uniteds-escape-bid-442462">England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid</a>

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Our Carabao Cup semi-final, first-leg fixture with Arsenal on Thursday has been postponed. 
 
We would like to place on record our thanks to the EFL and Arsenal for their understanding, as well as supporters of both clubs, as we continue to navigate through this challenging period.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC/status/1478713485617946631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed,&nbsp;Liverpool had requested the first leg be called off following the Covid-19 crisis hitting their camp severely. The likes of Liverpool players Alisson Becker, Roberto Firmino and Joel Matip had tested positive on Sunday (January 2), whereas manager Juergen Klopp returned with the same report during the course of the weekend.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ferran-torres-and-pedri-latest-to-test-positive-for-covid-19-as-barcelona-deal-with-virus-outbreak-442249">Ferran Torres and Pedri latest to test positive for COVID-19 as Barcelona deal with virus outbreak</a>

"The first leg of the Carabao (League) Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Liverpool scheduled for Thursday 6 January 2022 has been postponed following a formal request by Liverpool due to a severe outbreak of COVID infections amongst their management and playing staff," the EFL said in a statement.

"The EFL has been in regular dialogue with the club over the past 48 hours in an attempt to understand whether the tie could proceed but significant developments over this period have resulted in the Club reporting an ever-increasing number of COVID cases."

Just when one thought the Covid-19 infection had taken a backseat, the cases have once again been on the rise globally especially due to the advent of the Omicron variant.

Just when one thought the Covid-19 infection had taken a backseat, the cases have once again been on the rise globally especially due to the advent of the Omicron variant. The Covid-19 crisis is being felt once again in the sporting arena as the Arsenal-Liverpool League Cup semi-final's first leg got postponed due to the surge of Covid cases in the latter's camp. The development was shared by the English Football League (EFL) that Thursday's encounter (January 6) has been postponed. The first of the two semi-finals will now take place at Anfield on January 13 whereas the second and final leg has been scheduled on January 20 at the Emirates. ALSO READ | England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid Our Carabao Cup semi-final, first-leg fixture with Arsenal on Thursday has been postponed. We would like to place on record our thanks to the EFL and Arsenal for their understanding, as well as supporters of both clubs, as we continue to navigate through this challenging period. — Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 5, 2022 × For the unversed, Liverpool had requested the first leg be called off following the Covid-19 crisis hitting their camp severely. The likes of Liverpool players Alisson Becker, Roberto Firmino and Joel Matip had tested positive on Sunday (January 2), whereas manager Juergen Klopp returned with the same report during the course of the weekend. ALSO READ | Ferran Torres and Pedri latest to test positive for COVID-19 as Barcelona deal with virus outbreak "The first leg of the Carabao (League) Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Liverpool scheduled for Thursday 6 January 2022 has been postponed following a formal request by Liverpool due to a severe outbreak of COVID infections amongst their management and playing staff," the EFL said in a statement. "The EFL has been in regular dialogue with the club over the past 48 hours in an attempt to understand whether the tie could proceed but significant developments over this period have resulted in the Club reporting an ever-increasing number of COVID cases."

League Cup: Arsenal vs Liverpool semi-final first leg postponed due to Covid-19, revised dates out

If Newcastle United`s grandiose plan to become one of Europe`s big hitters is to come to fruition any time soon, what happens in the next few weeks could prove pivotal. Trapped in what appears to be a four-club relegation battle after only one win in their first 19 Premier League games of the season, their prospects would ordinarily look grim. 
But unlike bottom Norwich City, Burnley and Watford -- the three teams stuck in the mire with them -- Newcastle have an enormous transfer budget for the January window.

Since unpopular owner Mike Ashley`s reign was ended by a takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October, the club`s fans have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of a posse of high-profile signings to ride in and save the day. Newcastle`s potential budget for new signings in January is reported to be as high as 200 million pounds ($270.86 million), keeping them in line with Financial Fair Play rules. And while in reality the outlay may not come close to that, such financial clout gives them a potentially huge advantage as they seek to maintain their top-flight status.

Identifying the right targets will be key, however, and fans will be encouraged by the seemingly imminent arrival of England full back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid. Right back Trippier, who would cost around 12 million pounds according to British media, would represent a statement of intent from the club and help address the shortcomings in a Newcastle defence that has leaked 42 league goals so far -- a total matched only by Norwich. "I think (manager Eddie Howe) needs at least three or four (signings)," former striker Alan Shearer said last month. "Newcastle`s big issue at the minute is defensively. They`re nowhere near good enough those defenders that they`ve relied on for so long. They need a couple of defenders, someone with a bit of guile in the midfield and, also, someone to take the weight off Callum Wilson up front in terms of goals."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bengaluru-fc-sc-east-bengal-share-points-after-1-1-draw-in-isl-442275">Bengaluru FC, SC East Bengal share points after 1-1 draw in ISL</a>

While Trippier`s signing would represent solid business, the dilemma Newcastle face is whether to go for short term fixes to help stave off relegation or begin the process of laying the foundations for a sustained recovery. 
In an ideal world, manager Howe would prefer the latter option but will also be acutely aware that relegation could set the club`s plans back years, and could cost him his job. Tempting as the likes of Arsenal`s unsettled former skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli might be, even on short-term loans, whether they would be best-suited for a relegation scrap is debatable.

Newcastle have also been linked to Burnley`s central defender James Tarkowski and Everton`s left back Lucas Digne as Howe looks to re-model his defence, although considering Newcastle`s new wealth, neither would be allowed to go cheaply.

While Newcastle`s current squad is clearly sub-standard, making wholesale changes is also risky. New signings need time to bed in but time is not a commodity Newcastle have in abundance. Unless results improve rapidly, they are likely to become the richest club in England`s second-tier.

If Newcastle United`s grandiose plan to become one of Europe`s big hitters is to come to fruition any time soon, what happens in the next few weeks could prove pivotal.

If Newcastle United`s grandiose plan to become one of Europe`s big hitters is to come to fruition any time soon, what happens in the next few weeks could prove pivotal. Trapped in what appears to be a four-club relegation battle after only one win in their first 19 Premier League games of the season, their prospects would ordinarily look grim. But unlike bottom Norwich City, Burnley and Watford -- the three teams stuck in the mire with them -- Newcastle have an enormous transfer budget for the January window. Since unpopular owner Mike Ashley`s reign was ended by a takeover by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund in October, the club`s fans have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of a posse of high-profile signings to ride in and save the day. Newcastle`s potential budget for new signings in January is reported to be as high as 200 million pounds ($270.86 million), keeping them in line with Financial Fair Play rules. And while in reality the outlay may not come close to that, such financial clout gives them a potentially huge advantage as they seek to maintain their top-flight status. Identifying the right targets will be key, however, and fans will be encouraged by the seemingly imminent arrival of England full back Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid. Right back Trippier, who would cost around 12 million pounds according to British media, would represent a statement of intent from the club and help address the shortcomings in a Newcastle defence that has leaked 42 league goals so far -- a total matched only by Norwich. "I think (manager Eddie Howe) needs at least three or four (signings)," former striker Alan Shearer said last month. "Newcastle`s big issue at the minute is defensively. They`re nowhere near good enough those defenders that they`ve relied on for so long. They need a couple of defenders, someone with a bit of guile in the midfield and, also, someone to take the weight off Callum Wilson up front in terms of goals." ALSO READ | Bengaluru FC, SC East Bengal share points after 1-1 draw in ISL While Trippier`s signing would represent solid business, the dilemma Newcastle face is whether to go for short term fixes to help stave off relegation or begin the process of laying the foundations for a sustained recovery. In an ideal world, manager Howe would prefer the latter option but will also be acutely aware that relegation could set the club`s plans back years, and could cost him his job. Tempting as the likes of Arsenal`s unsettled former skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli might be, even on short-term loans, whether they would be best-suited for a relegation scrap is debatable. Newcastle have also been linked to Burnley`s central defender James Tarkowski and Everton`s left back Lucas Digne as Howe looks to re-model his defence, although considering Newcastle`s new wealth, neither would be allowed to go cheaply. While Newcastle`s current squad is clearly sub-standard, making wholesale changes is also risky. New signings need time to bed in but time is not a commodity Newcastle have in abundance. Unless results improve rapidly, they are likely to become the richest club in England`s second-tier.

England's Kieran Trippier could mark opening salvo in Newcastle United's escape bid

Bengaluru FC's hopes of securing playoffs qualification suffered another blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient SC East Bengal in the Indian Super League here on Tuesday. The result also extended SCEB's winless run to nine matches.

Semboi Haokip (28th) opened the scoring with a diving header until Sourav Das (OG 55th) handed the equaliser to the opposition with an own goal at the Athletic Stadium. In a nervy start, SC East Bengal's goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharja was shown an early yellow card for fouling Prince Ibara.

On the other end, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu also had a rusty start as he misjudged a free-kick from deep that went unpunished. It took the 18th minute for either side to create a meaningful scoring opportunity when Lalrinliana Hnamte's shot from the edge of the box was blocked by the BFC defence.

Roshan Naorem was shown a yellow card for a shirt pull and the subsequent free-kick led to Semboi Haokip breaking the deadlock just before the half-hour mark. He scored with a diving header which gave no chance to the keeper.

Alan Costa nearly scored the equaliser from Cleiton Silva's free-kick a few moments later but his header went slightly over the bar.

Marco Pezzaiuoli's men kept pressing for an equaliser but went into the halftime break trailing. The restart saw the tactician send Sunil Chhetri to change the complexion of the match. 
The equaliser finally came after a period of sustained pressure by the Blues in the second half. A cross from the right flank by Roshan was met by Sourav Das whose miscued header went past his own goalkeeper on the near post. 
Ibara was a constant threat and had the chance to give BFC the advantage after the hour mark but his header went over the crossbar. 
BFC was again denied the lead at the 71st-minute mark after Chhetri's strike from 10-yards out was cleared on the line by Hira Mondal. 
The Blues piled on more pressure as substitute Ankit Mukherjee picked up a yellow card for a bad foul on Ashique Kuruniyan in the late stages of the match. 
Udanta Singh also took an attempt at goal but he sliced across the ball which swerved away from the target. 
Five minutes were added for stoppages but neither side was able to find the winning goal as they settled for a point each. 
SC East Bengal will be next in action against leaders Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday, while Bengaluru FC also plays the Islanders in their next assignment at the PJN Stadium on Monday.

Bengaluru FC's hopes of securing playoffs qualification suffered another blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient SC East Bengal in the Indian Super League here on Tuesday.

Bengaluru FC's hopes of securing playoffs qualification suffered another blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient SC East Bengal in the Indian Super League here on Tuesday. The result also extended SCEB's winless run to nine matches. Semboi Haokip (28th) opened the scoring with a diving header until Sourav Das (OG 55th) handed the equaliser to the opposition with an own goal at the Athletic Stadium. In a nervy start, SC East Bengal's goalkeeper Arindam Bhattacharja was shown an early yellow card for fouling Prince Ibara. On the other end, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu also had a rusty start as he misjudged a free-kick from deep that went unpunished. It took the 18th minute for either side to create a meaningful scoring opportunity when Lalrinliana Hnamte's shot from the edge of the box was blocked by the BFC defence. Roshan Naorem was shown a yellow card for a shirt pull and the subsequent free-kick led to Semboi Haokip breaking the deadlock just before the half-hour mark. He scored with a diving header which gave no chance to the keeper. Alan Costa nearly scored the equaliser from Cleiton Silva's free-kick a few moments later but his header went slightly over the bar. Marco Pezzaiuoli's men kept pressing for an equaliser but went into the halftime break trailing. The restart saw the tactician send Sunil Chhetri to change the complexion of the match. The equaliser finally came after a period of sustained pressure by the Blues in the second half. A cross from the right flank by Roshan was met by Sourav Das whose miscued header went past his own goalkeeper on the near post. Ibara was a constant threat and had the chance to give BFC the advantage after the hour mark but his header went over the crossbar. BFC was again denied the lead at the 71st-minute mark after Chhetri's strike from 10-yards out was cleared on the line by Hira Mondal. The Blues piled on more pressure as substitute Ankit Mukherjee picked up a yellow card for a bad foul on Ashique Kuruniyan in the late stages of the match. Udanta Singh also took an attempt at goal but he sliced across the ball which swerved away from the target. Five minutes were added for stoppages but neither side was able to find the winning goal as they settled for a point each. SC East Bengal will be next in action against leaders Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday, while Bengaluru FC also plays the Islanders in their next assignment at the PJN Stadium on Monday.

Bengaluru FC, SC East Bengal share points after 1-1 draw in ISL

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was the top scorer of the calendar year in 2021 with a stunning 69 goals from 59 matches. The Polish forward has been a prolific goal-scorer for his national team and the Bundesliga giants over the years but has taken his game to a whole new level in the past few years.

Lewandowski has been ruling the Bundesliga goalscoring charts for the last few years and has been an unstoppable force for Bayern. He might have missed out on winning his maiden Ballon d'Or in 2021 but Lewandowski broke several records with his goal-scoring exploits throughout the year as he finished as the top-scorer of 2021.

Here we take a look at the top goal-scorers in a calendar year since 2017:

2017 - Harry Kane (56 goals from 52 games)

England and Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane had his best campaign in the year 2017 when he scored a whopping 56 goals in 52 games for club and country. Kane became the first player to outscore both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo that year with his sensational run. He won the Premier League Golden Boot for the 2016-17 season and also broke Alan Shearer's record for most Premier League goals in a calendar year.

2018 - Lionel Messi (51 goals in 54 games)

Lionel Messi, who holds the record for most goals in a calendar year by any footballer with a staggering 91 goals in the year 2012, had topped the goal-scoring charts in the 2018 season. One of the best footballers of all time, the Argentine icon scored 51 goals in 54 matches in the year 2018. It was the eighth time in nine years that Messi scored 50 or more goals in a calendar year, extending his dominance in world football.

2019 - Robert Lewandowski (54 goals in 58 games)

Robert Lewandowski had a phenomenal season with Bayern Munich to end 2019 with the most goals in a calendar year for his club and national team combined. The Polish striker bagged an impressive 54 goals in 58 games leaving the likes of Messi and Ronaldo behind to emerge as the top-scorer of the year. His brilliant run helped Bayern Munich claim the Bundesliga title and clinch the treble.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/robert-lewandowski-to-karim-benzema-top-five-goal-scorers-across-club-competitions-in-2021-438000">Robert Lewandowski to Karim Benzema: Top five goal-scorers across club competitions in 2021</a>

2020 - Robert Lewandowski (47 goals in 44 games)

Robert Lewandowski continued his magnificent goal-scoring form in the year 2020 as he once again emerged as the top scorer in the calendar year with 47 goals from 44 games for his club and the national team across all competitions. Lewandowski played an instrumental role in helping Bayern win the Champions League in 2020 and missed out on a deserved maiden Ballon d'Or as the awards were scrapped due to COVID-19.

2021&nbsp;- Robert Lewandowski (69 goals in 55&nbsp;games)

Robert Lewandowski's dream run continued in the year 2021 as he once again remained unstoppable for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. The Polish striker took his performances a notch higher with a whopping 69 goals in just 59 games. He broke German legend Gerd Muller's record for most goals in a single Bundesliga season with 41 goals in just 29 league games. For Poland, he struck 11 times in 12 matches to finish the year with most goals by any player across the globe.

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Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was the top scorer of the calendar year in 2021 with a stunning 69 goals from 59 matches. The Polish forward has been a prolific goal-scorer for his national team and the Bundesliga giants over the years but has taken his game to a whole new level in the past few years.

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was the top scorer of the calendar year in 2021 with a stunning 69 goals from 59 matches. The Polish forward has been a prolific goal-scorer for his national team and the Bundesliga giants over the years but has taken his game to a whole new level in the past few years. Lewandowski has been ruling the Bundesliga goalscoring charts for the last few years and has been an unstoppable force for Bayern. He might have missed out on winning his maiden Ballon d'Or in 2021 but Lewandowski broke several records with his goal-scoring exploits throughout the year as he finished as the top-scorer of 2021. Here we take a look at the top goal-scorers in a calendar year since 2017: 2017 - Harry Kane (56 goals from 52 games) England and Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane had his best campaign in the year 2017 when he scored a whopping 56 goals in 52 games for club and country. Kane became the first player to outscore both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo that year with his sensational run. He won the Premier League Golden Boot for the 2016-17 season and also broke Alan Shearer's record for most Premier League goals in a calendar year. 2018 - Lionel Messi (51 goals in 54 games) Lionel Messi, who holds the record for most goals in a calendar year by any footballer with a staggering 91 goals in the year 2012, had topped the goal-scoring charts in the 2018 season. One of the best footballers of all time, the Argentine icon scored 51 goals in 54 matches in the year 2018. It was the eighth time in nine years that Messi scored 50 or more goals in a calendar year, extending his dominance in world football. 2019 - Robert Lewandowski (54 goals in 58 games) Robert Lewandowski had a phenomenal season with Bayern Munich to end 2019 with the most goals in a calendar year for his club and national team combined. The Polish striker bagged an impressive 54 goals in 58 games leaving the likes of Messi and Ronaldo behind to emerge as the top-scorer of the year. His brilliant run helped Bayern Munich claim the Bundesliga title and clinch the treble. Also Read: Robert Lewandowski to Karim Benzema: Top five goal-scorers across club competitions in 2021 2020 - Robert Lewandowski (47 goals in 44 games) Robert Lewandowski continued his magnificent goal-scoring form in the year 2020 as he once again emerged as the top scorer in the calendar year with 47 goals from 44 games for his club and the national team across all competitions. Lewandowski played an instrumental role in helping Bayern win the Champions League in 2020 and missed out on a deserved maiden Ballon d'Or as the awards were scrapped due to COVID-19. 2021 - Robert Lewandowski (69 goals in 55 games) Robert Lewandowski's dream run continued in the year 2021 as he once again remained unstoppable for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. The Polish striker took his performances a notch higher with a whopping 69 goals in just 59 games. He broke German legend Gerd Muller's record for most goals in a single Bundesliga season with 41 goals in just 29 league games. For Poland, he struck 11 times in 12 matches to finish the year with most goals by any player across the globe.

Lionel Messi to Robert Lewandowski: A look at players with most goals in a calendar year since 2017

Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22. The result leaves Des Buckingham`s men winless in three games.

Victory for Kiko Ramirez`s men means that only three points separate them from the league leaders despite being in seventh place on the table.&nbsp;Aridai Cabrera (4`) scored an early goal against the run of play but Ahmed Jahouh (11`) quickly brought the game on level terms with a superb finish.

Igor Angulo (38`) then headed his team into the lead before Jerry Mawihmingthanga (70`, 77`) scored a memorable brace to hand the lead back to the Kalinga Warriors. Jonathas (89`) put the result beyond any doubt by scoring the fourth.

The match began at a rapid pace as Odisha FC scored an early goal. Mumbai City FC`s Mourtada Fall gave the ball away with an unforced error in his own half which led to Aridai Cabrera cutting inside from the left flank and unleashing a curling shot towards the far post.

Mohammad Nawaz got both hands on the ball and yet could not prevent the ball from rolling inside the net. A few minutes later, Ahmed Jahouh found the back of the net with a sensational curling shot from almost 25-yards out. The midfielder was fed by Cassio Gabriel with a perfectly weighted pass for the equaliser.

Raynier Fernandes had a great opportunity to send his team into the lead at the half-hour mark but the midfielder miscued his header which went wide to his disappointment. However, it was Igor Angulo who finally gave the Islanders the lead with a precise header from a Jahouh free-kick.

The second half also started on a fiery note as OFC began on the front foot. Moments after the hour mark, Sahil Tanwar missed an easy header to score the equaliser from 12-yards away after finding himself unmarked inside the box.

Ygor Catatau looked to have scored another goal from the bench but he was adjudged to be in an offside position.Within seconds on the other end, Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored his first goal of the season and equalised with a diving header at the far post.

The winger then proceeded to score OFC`s third and stunned the league leaders with a powerful drive that went straight into the top corner from the right flank. To inflict more misery, Jerry turned provider by delivering a pinpoint cross for Jonathas who calmly placed his shot in the back of the net to score the fourth.

A late headed attempt from Catatau was saved by Kamaljit Singh from point-blank range who showed incredible reflexes to keep the Islanders at bay. The Kalinga Warriors held on to their lead and managed their fourth win of the season.

Top-ranked Mumbai City FC will play bottom-ranked SC East Bengal in their next fixture at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday whereas Odisha FC faces Juan Ferrando`s ATK Mohun Bagan at the PJN Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;

Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22.

Odisha FC completed a scintillating second-half comeback recording an impressive 4-2 win over Mumbai City FC at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in the 2021-22 Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22. The result leaves Des Buckingham`s men winless in three games. Victory for Kiko Ramirez`s men means that only three points separate them from the league leaders despite being in seventh place on the table. Aridai Cabrera (4`) scored an early goal against the run of play but Ahmed Jahouh (11`) quickly brought the game on level terms with a superb finish. Igor Angulo (38`) then headed his team into the lead before Jerry Mawihmingthanga (70`, 77`) scored a memorable brace to hand the lead back to the Kalinga Warriors. Jonathas (89`) put the result beyond any doubt by scoring the fourth. The match began at a rapid pace as Odisha FC scored an early goal. Mumbai City FC`s Mourtada Fall gave the ball away with an unforced error in his own half which led to Aridai Cabrera cutting inside from the left flank and unleashing a curling shot towards the far post. Mohammad Nawaz got both hands on the ball and yet could not prevent the ball from rolling inside the net. A few minutes later, Ahmed Jahouh found the back of the net with a sensational curling shot from almost 25-yards out. The midfielder was fed by Cassio Gabriel with a perfectly weighted pass for the equaliser. Raynier Fernandes had a great opportunity to send his team into the lead at the half-hour mark but the midfielder miscued his header which went wide to his disappointment. However, it was Igor Angulo who finally gave the Islanders the lead with a precise header from a Jahouh free-kick. The second half also started on a fiery note as OFC began on the front foot. Moments after the hour mark, Sahil Tanwar missed an easy header to score the equaliser from 12-yards away after finding himself unmarked inside the box. Ygor Catatau looked to have scored another goal from the bench but he was adjudged to be in an offside position.Within seconds on the other end, Jerry Mawihmingthanga scored his first goal of the season and equalised with a diving header at the far post. The winger then proceeded to score OFC`s third and stunned the league leaders with a powerful drive that went straight into the top corner from the right flank. To inflict more misery, Jerry turned provider by delivering a pinpoint cross for Jonathas who calmly placed his shot in the back of the net to score the fourth. A late headed attempt from Catatau was saved by Kamaljit Singh from point-blank range who showed incredible reflexes to keep the Islanders at bay. The Kalinga Warriors held on to their lead and managed their fourth win of the season. Top-ranked Mumbai City FC will play bottom-ranked SC East Bengal in their next fixture at the Tilak Maidan Stadium on Friday whereas Odisha FC faces Juan Ferrando`s ATK Mohun Bagan at the PJN Stadium on Saturday.

ISL: Odisha FC stun table-toppers Mumbai City to throw league wide open with 4-2 win

An early goal from Turkish striker Enes Unal shocked LaLiga leaders Real Madrid as they lost 1-0 at Getafe on Sunday and ended an unbeaten run that had lasted 15 matches in all competitions. With 46 points from 20 games, Real Madrid are still top but are not as comfortable as before. Sevilla are second with 38 points and two games in hand, and will visit second-from-bottom Cadiz on Monday.

Getafe, led by former Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores, extended their unbeaten streak in LaLiga to six matches and are 16th in the standings, three points above the relegation zone. It was their first win over Real in a decade. Unal scored with a low, powerful strike in the ninth minute after pressuring Real defender Eder Militao into giving up the ball inside the box.

“Let’s be honest, we lost because of a rare individual mistake from Militao who is probably our best player this season,” Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters. “We tried really hard but their keeper was inspired. We were not in our best form today. In Real Madrid we need to play better; it’s not acceptable to lose any game this way.” 
Real Madrid had almost 75% of possession but managed only four shots on target during the entire game. 
"There is not much to say after a game like this," said manager Carlo Ancelotti. "It looked like our team took a few more days of vacation after Christmas."

The team clearly missed the spark that forward Vinicius Jr usually brings as the Brazilian was absent after a positive COVID-19 test on Wednesday. Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard was named to the substitutes` bench for the second time running by Ancelotti after being out of the starting 11 for three months. 
Hazard came on in the second half but contributed little to what was probably Real Madrid`s worst match of the season.

Croatian midfielder Luka Modric was the lone positive note for the leaders as he created most of Real`s opportunities, including a long shot in the first half that hit the bar.

***

Barcelona striker Luuk de Jong`s first-half header and a stunning stoppage-time save by Marc-Andre ter Stegen secured a 1-0 win at Mallorca on Sunday in a match where the Catalans were missing 14 players due to COVID-19, injuries and suspensions. Barca climbed two places to fifth on 31 points from 19 matches, one point behind Atletico Madrid in fourth and 15 adrift of leaders Real Madrid who have played a game more. 
It was vindication time for striker De Jong after several media reports that Barca want to move him on this month.

He got his second goal since arriving from Sevilla in the close season - his first for more than three months. 
The Dutchman was Barca`s best player on Sunday as he also hit the post twice in the first half, once with a bicycle kick. The goal came just before the break when he headed home from close range after a cross by Oscar Mingueza. 
Barca dominated the game until the final minutes when Mallorca started pressing for an equaliser and almost got it. 
Ter Stegen saved Barca in added time with an unbelievable handball-style reflex save with his right arm, denying Jaume Costa whose close-range strike looked like a sure goal.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelsea-battle-back-to-draw-2-2-with-liverpool-441847">Premier League: Chelsea battle back to draw 2-2 with Liverpool</a>

GOLDEN POINTS 
"It was an historic win for us, I`m not exaggerating," Xavi told reporters. "Missing so many players, to go back home with a win - it`s three points worth their weight in gold. "The young players showed up and Ter Stegen made a stop for the ages. I`m thrilled that we manage to win." Barca made the trip without the suspended Sergio Busquets, five injured players (Ansu Fati, Pedri, Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite and Sergi Roberto) and eight due to the COVID-19 outbreak at the club (Sergino Dest, Philippe Coutinho, Ez Abde, Jordi Alba, Alex Balde, Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Dani Alves).

Coach Xavi Hernandez, who said on Saturday that it was "ludicrous" the game was going ahead, had to call on nine players from Barca’s youth academy, starting two of them, Ilias Akhomach and Ferran Jutgla, up front alongside De Jong.

But it was the Dutchman`s night as he led the visitors to victory and back into European spots for the first time since Xavi replaced&nbsp;Ronald Koeman as coach in November. “It was important to win on a Sunday when Real Madrid, Betis, Rayo Vallecano and Real Sociedad all lost points," Barca defender Eric Garcia told reporters. 
"We managed to overcome a very complicated situation missing many key players. In the end, we owe Ter Stegen for 71% of our win. That stop was incredible.”

An early goal from Turkish striker Enes Unal shocked LaLiga leaders Real Madrid as they lost 1-0 at Getafe on Sunday and ended an unbeaten run that had lasted 15 matches in all competitions.

An early goal from Turkish striker Enes Unal shocked LaLiga leaders Real Madrid as they lost 1-0 at Getafe on Sunday and ended an unbeaten run that had lasted 15 matches in all competitions. With 46 points from 20 games, Real Madrid are still top but are not as comfortable as before. Sevilla are second with 38 points and two games in hand, and will visit second-from-bottom Cadiz on Monday. Getafe, led by former Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores, extended their unbeaten streak in LaLiga to six matches and are 16th in the standings, three points above the relegation zone. It was their first win over Real in a decade. Unal scored with a low, powerful strike in the ninth minute after pressuring Real defender Eder Militao into giving up the ball inside the box. “Let’s be honest, we lost because of a rare individual mistake from Militao who is probably our best player this season,” Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters. “We tried really hard but their keeper was inspired. We were not in our best form today. In Real Madrid we need to play better; it’s not acceptable to lose any game this way.” Real Madrid had almost 75% of possession but managed only four shots on target during the entire game. "There is not much to say after a game like this," said manager Carlo Ancelotti. "It looked like our team took a few more days of vacation after Christmas." The team clearly missed the spark that forward Vinicius Jr usually brings as the Brazilian was absent after a positive COVID-19 test on Wednesday. Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard was named to the substitutes` bench for the second time running by Ancelotti after being out of the starting 11 for three months. Hazard came on in the second half but contributed little to what was probably Real Madrid`s worst match of the season. Croatian midfielder Luka Modric was the lone positive note for the leaders as he created most of Real`s opportunities, including a long shot in the first half that hit the bar. *** Barcelona striker Luuk de Jong`s first-half header and a stunning stoppage-time save by Marc-Andre ter Stegen secured a 1-0 win at Mallorca on Sunday in a match where the Catalans were missing 14 players due to COVID-19, injuries and suspensions. Barca climbed two places to fifth on 31 points from 19 matches, one point behind Atletico Madrid in fourth and 15 adrift of leaders Real Madrid who have played a game more. It was vindication time for striker De Jong after several media reports that Barca want to move him on this month. He got his second goal since arriving from Sevilla in the close season - his first for more than three months. The Dutchman was Barca`s best player on Sunday as he also hit the post twice in the first half, once with a bicycle kick. The goal came just before the break when he headed home from close range after a cross by Oscar Mingueza. Barca dominated the game until the final minutes when Mallorca started pressing for an equaliser and almost got it. Ter Stegen saved Barca in added time with an unbelievable handball-style reflex save with his right arm, denying Jaume Costa whose close-range strike looked like a sure goal. ALSO READ | Premier League: Chelsea battle back to draw 2-2 with Liverpool GOLDEN POINTS "It was an historic win for us, I`m not exaggerating," Xavi told reporters. "Missing so many players, to go back home with a win - it`s three points worth their weight in gold. "The young players showed up and Ter Stegen made a stop for the ages. I`m thrilled that we manage to win." Barca made the trip without the suspended Sergio Busquets, five injured players (Ansu Fati, Pedri, Memphis Depay, Martin Braithwaite and Sergi Roberto) and eight due to the COVID-19 outbreak at the club (Sergino Dest, Philippe Coutinho, Ez Abde, Jordi Alba, Alex Balde, Ousmane Dembele, Gavi and Dani Alves). Coach Xavi Hernandez, who said on Saturday that it was "ludicrous" the game was going ahead, had to call on nine players from Barca’s youth academy, starting two of them, Ilias Akhomach and Ferran Jutgla, up front alongside De Jong. But it was the Dutchman`s night as he led the visitors to victory and back into European spots for the first time since Xavi replaced Ronald Koeman as coach in November. “It was important to win on a Sunday when Real Madrid, Betis, Rayo Vallecano and Real Sociedad all lost points," Barca defender Eric Garcia told reporters. "We managed to overcome a very complicated situation missing many key players. In the end, we owe Ter Stegen for 71% of our win. That stop was incredible.”

La Liga: Getafe end Real Madrid's unbeaten streak; depleted Barcelona earn tight win vs Real Mallorca

Chinese footballers now have a bizarre mandate to follow no tattoos. Beijing has banned footballers playing for the national team from getting inked.

China bans footballers playing for the national team from getting tattoos

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