Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Lingard's stunning form since joining the Hammers on loan from Manchester United in January saw him earn a recall by England manager Gareth Southgate last month.

The midfielder further bolstered his case for inclusion in Southgate's squad for Euro 2020 as he ran from inside his own half to slot home his sixth goal in eight West Ham appearances after just six minutes.

Lingard then turned creator for his side's other two goals as the visitors surged into a 3-0 lead inside 38 minutes.

His cute flick when penned in at the corner flag teed up Arthur Masuaku to cross for Pablo Fornals to double the Hammers' lead.

Lingard then surged beyond four weak Wolves challenges to free Jarrod Bowen, who fired in at Rui Patricio's near post.

"He's playing terrifically well," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "Tonight he looked like a real top player."

West Ham move a point ahead of Chelsea in a tight battle for a place in the Champions League next season.

Tottenham and Liverpool are just three points behind Moyes's men with eight games to play.

"We have to take it on. I'm hearing people talking about West Ham with a chance of playing in the Champions League," added Moyes.

"Nobody would have envisaged that last season. All those big teams up there going for fourth, we are going to try to compete with them all the way to the end."

West Ham let a three-goal lead slip in their last outing as Arsenal battled back to draw 3-3 at the London Stadium two weeks ago and they nearly made the same mistake.

Leander Dendoncker kickstarted the Wolves fightback with a towering header from Adama Traore's cross just before half-time.

Substitute Fabio Silva then found the far corner 22 minutes from time to set up a grandstand finish.

This time the Hammers held out, but their top-four challenge could be impacted by a couple of significant injuries.

Declan Rice missed his first Premier League game of the season with a knee injury that is expected to keep the England midfielder out for a month and Michail Antonio limped off in the first-half with a hamstring problem.

<h2>- Profligate Everton punished -</h2>

Everton missed the chance to also move within three points of four, with a game in hand to come, as Michy Batshuayi's 86th minute equaliser salvaged a point for the Eagles at Goodison Park.

The Toffees were made to rue a string of missed chances either side of James Rodriguez's opener.

“The reason was we were not able to kill the game when we had the opportunity,” said Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"When you deserve to win, you have to win. We have to be more focused to avoid these kinds of situations.”

Rodriguez broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second-half when he fired home Seamus Coleman's cut-back for his 100th goal in European football.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison were denied by Vicente Guaita with the chance to seal the points.

And that proved costly as Everton ultimately dropped points for the seventh time in eight home games.

Batshuayi had only been on the pitch two minutes when he latched onto Jeffrey Schlupp's through ball to fire low beyond Robin Olsen.

Palace remain in 12th, but look safe for another season in the top flight as they edge 11 points clear of the relegation zone.

Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.

Jesse Lingard inspired West Ham to a thrilling 3-2 win at Wolves to move fourth in the Premier League on Monday, as Everton's hopes of a top-four finish were dented in a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. Lingard's stunning form since joining the Hammers on loan from Manchester United in January saw him earn a recall by England manager Gareth Southgate last month. The midfielder further bolstered his case for inclusion in Southgate's squad for Euro 2020 as he ran from inside his own half to slot home his sixth goal in eight West Ham appearances after just six minutes. Lingard then turned creator for his side's other two goals as the visitors surged into a 3-0 lead inside 38 minutes. His cute flick when penned in at the corner flag teed up Arthur Masuaku to cross for Pablo Fornals to double the Hammers' lead. Lingard then surged beyond four weak Wolves challenges to free Jarrod Bowen, who fired in at Rui Patricio's near post. "He's playing terrifically well," said West Ham boss David Moyes. "Tonight he looked like a real top player." West Ham move a point ahead of Chelsea in a tight battle for a place in the Champions League next season. Tottenham and Liverpool are just three points behind Moyes's men with eight games to play. "We have to take it on. I'm hearing people talking about West Ham with a chance of playing in the Champions League," added Moyes. "Nobody would have envisaged that last season. All those big teams up there going for fourth, we are going to try to compete with them all the way to the end." West Ham let a three-goal lead slip in their last outing as Arsenal battled back to draw 3-3 at the London Stadium two weeks ago and they nearly made the same mistake. Leander Dendoncker kickstarted the Wolves fightback with a towering header from Adama Traore's cross just before half-time. Substitute Fabio Silva then found the far corner 22 minutes from time to set up a grandstand finish. This time the Hammers held out, but their top-four challenge could be impacted by a couple of significant injuries. Declan Rice missed his first Premier League game of the season with a knee injury that is expected to keep the England midfielder out for a month and Michail Antonio limped off in the first-half with a hamstring problem. - Profligate Everton punished - Everton missed the chance to also move within three points of four, with a game in hand to come, as Michy Batshuayi's 86th minute equaliser salvaged a point for the Eagles at Goodison Park. The Toffees were made to rue a string of missed chances either side of James Rodriguez's opener. “The reason was we were not able to kill the game when we had the opportunity,” said Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti. "When you deserve to win, you have to win. We have to be more focused to avoid these kinds of situations.” Rodriguez broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second-half when he fired home Seamus Coleman's cut-back for his 100th goal in European football. Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison were denied by Vicente Guaita with the chance to seal the points. And that proved costly as Everton ultimately dropped points for the seventh time in eight home games. Batshuayi had only been on the pitch two minutes when he latched onto Jeffrey Schlupp's through ball to fire low beyond Robin Olsen. Palace remain in 12th, but look safe for another season in the top flight as they edge 11 points clear of the relegation zone.

Lingard lifts West Ham into fourth, Everton held by Palace

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach.

News of Robert Lewandowski's absence for the quarter-final first leg at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday has understandably been met with some delight in Paris, especially with Neymar recovering fitness following his latest lay-off.

Nevertheless, PSG did not need Neymar when they delivered their signature performance of the campaign so far to beat Barcelona 4-1 away in the last round.

Marco Verratti did play then, and the Italian playmaker's absence in Munich following a positive Covid-19 test could be a major problem for Pochettino.

The Argentine, a former PSG captain, was appointed by the Qatar-owned club in January with the difficult brief of doing better than his sacked predecessor, Thomas Tuchel.

Under Tuchel, the Parisians won every domestic trophy in France last season before reaching the Champions League final for the first time.

In some ways there is more pressure on PSG now than there was for that 1-0 loss to Bayern in Lisbon last August.

Getting to the final of Europe's elite club competition was a big step forwards, but going out in the quarter-finals now would be a major setback for PSG and Pochettino, especially as they are trailing in Ligue 1.

The former Tottenham Hotspur coach told AFP in an interview last month that he would need time to make his mark at the Parc des Princes and that he would be unable to make the changes he wants until the next pre-season.

The 49-year-old, who oversaw a 7-2 home defeat by Bayern in one of his last games with Spurs, sought to emphasise the point last weekend, telling Le Parisien: "You can judge me from next season."

In the meantime, he added: "If we win the Champions League, or the French Cup, or Ligue 1, our influence will have been minimal. As will be the case if we win nothing. It will mainly be down to the players."

Of the team that started last season's final, only captain Thiago Silva has departed, while Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who came off the bench, has since switched to the Bayern ranks.

Yet he was replaced by Moise Kean, and the Italian international is an upgrade having contributed 15 goals, including three in the Champions League.

Meanwhile, left-back Juan Bernat has missed almost the entire season due to injury, and PSG have problems in both full-back positions.

<h2>- 'Highs and lows' -</h2>

What Pochettino really needs is for Neymar to rediscover his best form and for Kylian Mbappe to deliver -- PSG's best performances under Pochettino have come with Mbappe starring, from his hat-trick in Barcelona to a double in a 4-2 win in Lyon.

However Mbappe has sometimes flattered to deceive and performances have regularly been disappointing, under Tuchel and Pochettino.

They have lost 10 times this season, including three defeats in their last six league games.

Saturday's 1-0 home loss to title rivals Lille -- in which Neymar was sent off -- left them three points behind the Ligue 1 leaders with seven matches remaining.

Never mind potentially missing out on winning the French title, PSG could miss out on Champions League qualification altogether by failing to finish in the top three in Ligue 1.

That would be embarrassing for a club of the standing of PSG, who lost 3-1 on their last visit to Bayern for a group-stage match under Unai Emery in 2017.

"We have had lots of highs and lows, so we need to be more consistent like in previous seasons," captain Marquinhos told Canal Plus after the Lille game.

"We can still achieve great things so we need to focus on the positives and look at what we can improve. The next game is one of our biggest of the season."

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach.

Paris Saint-Germain are seeking revenge for their defeat in last season's final when they renew acquaintances with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last eight this week, but the French giants appear to have gone backwards since then despite the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino as coach. News of Robert Lewandowski's absence for the quarter-final first leg at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday has understandably been met with some delight in Paris, especially with Neymar recovering fitness following his latest lay-off. Nevertheless, PSG did not need Neymar when they delivered their signature performance of the campaign so far to beat Barcelona 4-1 away in the last round. Marco Verratti did play then, and the Italian playmaker's absence in Munich following a positive Covid-19 test could be a major problem for Pochettino. The Argentine, a former PSG captain, was appointed by the Qatar-owned club in January with the difficult brief of doing better than his sacked predecessor, Thomas Tuchel. Under Tuchel, the Parisians won every domestic trophy in France last season before reaching the Champions League final for the first time. In some ways there is more pressure on PSG now than there was for that 1-0 loss to Bayern in Lisbon last August. Getting to the final of Europe's elite club competition was a big step forwards, but going out in the quarter-finals now would be a major setback for PSG and Pochettino, especially as they are trailing in Ligue 1. The former Tottenham Hotspur coach told AFP in an interview last month that he would need time to make his mark at the Parc des Princes and that he would be unable to make the changes he wants until the next pre-season. The 49-year-old, who oversaw a 7-2 home defeat by Bayern in one of his last games with Spurs, sought to emphasise the point last weekend, telling Le Parisien: "You can judge me from next season." In the meantime, he added: "If we win the Champions League, or the French Cup, or Ligue 1, our influence will have been minimal. As will be the case if we win nothing. It will mainly be down to the players." Of the team that started last season's final, only captain Thiago Silva has departed, while Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who came off the bench, has since switched to the Bayern ranks. Yet he was replaced by Moise Kean, and the Italian international is an upgrade having contributed 15 goals, including three in the Champions League. Meanwhile, left-back Juan Bernat has missed almost the entire season due to injury, and PSG have problems in both full-back positions. - 'Highs and lows' - What Pochettino really needs is for Neymar to rediscover his best form and for Kylian Mbappe to deliver -- PSG's best performances under Pochettino have come with Mbappe starring, from his hat-trick in Barcelona to a double in a 4-2 win in Lyon. However Mbappe has sometimes flattered to deceive and performances have regularly been disappointing, under Tuchel and Pochettino. They have lost 10 times this season, including three defeats in their last six league games. Saturday's 1-0 home loss to title rivals Lille -- in which Neymar was sent off -- left them three points behind the Ligue 1 leaders with seven matches remaining. Never mind potentially missing out on winning the French title, PSG could miss out on Champions League qualification altogether by failing to finish in the top three in Ligue 1. That would be embarrassing for a club of the standing of PSG, who lost 3-1 on their last visit to Bayern for a group-stage match under Unai Emery in 2017. "We have had lots of highs and lows, so we need to be more consistent like in previous seasons," captain Marquinhos told Canal Plus after the Lille game. "We can still achieve great things so we need to focus on the positives and look at what we can improve. The next game is one of our biggest of the season."

Can PSG avenge Champions League final loss against Bayern?

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool.&nbsp;

Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper.&nbsp;

A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday.

Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.&nbsp;

Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season.&nbsp;

The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury.&nbsp;

However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021.&nbsp;

Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Ramos reunion denied -</h2>

&nbsp;

Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection.

Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order.&nbsp;

When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too.

Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance.

If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible.

The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer.

For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important.&nbsp;

Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury.

Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by.

But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year.

Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition.

In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans. Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool. Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper. A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years. But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday. Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic. After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history. Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season. The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury. However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021. Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back. - Ramos reunion denied - Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection. Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order. When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too. Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance. If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible. The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer. For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important. Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury. Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by. But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year. Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition. In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Fallen giants seek revival as Real Madrid, Liverpool battle again

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match.

The fixture was stopped in the 37th minute after Valencia said their player Mouctar Diakhaby was the victim of a racial insult.&nbsp;

Diakhaby had been involved in a heated exchange with Cadiz's Juan Cala before indicating to the referee David Medie Jimenez that he was leaving the field.&nbsp;

The Frenchman's team-mates followed him off and Cadiz also went down the tunnel soon after.

Around 15 minutes later, the Valencia team returned and a further five minutes afterwards, the game restarted, this time without Diakhaby.

Diakhaby was replaced by Hugo Guillamon and watched the second half sitting in the stands.

"In the changing rooms we were told if we didn't return, we would be sanctioned," said Gracia, who would not specify who had made the threat.

"In that moment, we spoke with Diakha, about how he was, and he told us that he wouldn't play but he understood perfectly we had to continue playing to avoid a possible sanction, so we returned."

Valencia defender Jose Gaya also told Spanish television after the game: "He (Diakhaby) told us he was insulted in a racist way. We went back out to play because they told us they could penalise us with three points and something more. He asked us to go back, he's gutted, it was a very ugly insult."

Valencia had earlier indicated it was Diakhaby's decision that the team return to the pitch.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'I believe in my player' -</h2>

The club wrote on social media shortly after the game resumed: "The team have held a meeting and decided to continue the game, in order to fight for the honour of the club, but denounce racism of any kind.&nbsp;

"We offer our complete backing to @Diakhaby_5. The player, who had received a racial insult, requested that his teammates return to the pitch. We support you Mouctar."&nbsp;

Cadiz coach Alvaro Cervera said Cala insisted he had not racially insulted Diakhaby.&nbsp;

"We returned to the changing room, we talked," Cervera said.&nbsp;

"Cala said that at no time did he insult the player. I believe in my player."

La Liga would not comment on the incident after the match.

An official complaint from Valencia or mention of the incident in the referee's report could lead to further investigation and sanctions against Cadiz.

President of the Valencian regional government Ximo Puig wrote on Twitter: "Equality and rejection of racism. That is the most important match. A hug to Diakhaby. This is his house, his land."

The exchange occurred after a tussle between Diakhaby and Cala in Valencia's penalty area.

As Cala ran back to his own half, the pair continued to argue, with Diakhaby suddenly sprinting towards Cala, who was standing close to the halfway line.

Several players rushed over to separate them, with Gabriel Paulista among those shouting at the referee.&nbsp;

Diakhaby was visibly distressed and his reaction earned him a yellow card.&nbsp;

After being escorted away, Diakhaby spoke individually with the referee before walking off, together with Gabriel.&nbsp;

The Cadiz players waited a few minutes longer before also leaving the pitch.

The referee was not close to the argument between Diakhaby and Cala, and Gracia said "there was no record from the referee that this had happened".

Cala was then also substituted at half-time, having earlier scored the opening goal for Cadiz, with Kevin Gameiro equalising for Valencia.&nbsp;

Cala's replacement Marcos Lopez scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Cadiz.

Last month, Athletic Bilbao's Inaki Williams gave evidence in court as part of an investigation into Espanyol fans racially insulting him during a match in January last year.

In December 2019, a second tier game between Rayo Vallecano and Albacete was suspended after Albacete refused to come out for the second half following chants from Rayo fans calling their striker Roman Zozulya a Nazi.

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match.

Valencia's players walked off during their La Liga game with Cadiz on Sunday in protest against racist abuse, with coach Javi Gracia later claiming they were told they would be punished if they refused to resume the match. The fixture was stopped in the 37th minute after Valencia said their player Mouctar Diakhaby was the victim of a racial insult. Diakhaby had been involved in a heated exchange with Cadiz's Juan Cala before indicating to the referee David Medie Jimenez that he was leaving the field. The Frenchman's team-mates followed him off and Cadiz also went down the tunnel soon after. Around 15 minutes later, the Valencia team returned and a further five minutes afterwards, the game restarted, this time without Diakhaby. Diakhaby was replaced by Hugo Guillamon and watched the second half sitting in the stands. "In the changing rooms we were told if we didn't return, we would be sanctioned," said Gracia, who would not specify who had made the threat. "In that moment, we spoke with Diakha, about how he was, and he told us that he wouldn't play but he understood perfectly we had to continue playing to avoid a possible sanction, so we returned." Valencia defender Jose Gaya also told Spanish television after the game: "He (Diakhaby) told us he was insulted in a racist way. We went back out to play because they told us they could penalise us with three points and something more. He asked us to go back, he's gutted, it was a very ugly insult." Valencia had earlier indicated it was Diakhaby's decision that the team return to the pitch. - 'I believe in my player' - The club wrote on social media shortly after the game resumed: "The team have held a meeting and decided to continue the game, in order to fight for the honour of the club, but denounce racism of any kind. "We offer our complete backing to @Diakhaby_5. The player, who had received a racial insult, requested that his teammates return to the pitch. We support you Mouctar." Cadiz coach Alvaro Cervera said Cala insisted he had not racially insulted Diakhaby. "We returned to the changing room, we talked," Cervera said. "Cala said that at no time did he insult the player. I believe in my player." La Liga would not comment on the incident after the match. An official complaint from Valencia or mention of the incident in the referee's report could lead to further investigation and sanctions against Cadiz. President of the Valencian regional government Ximo Puig wrote on Twitter: "Equality and rejection of racism. That is the most important match. A hug to Diakhaby. This is his house, his land." The exchange occurred after a tussle between Diakhaby and Cala in Valencia's penalty area. As Cala ran back to his own half, the pair continued to argue, with Diakhaby suddenly sprinting towards Cala, who was standing close to the halfway line. Several players rushed over to separate them, with Gabriel Paulista among those shouting at the referee. Diakhaby was visibly distressed and his reaction earned him a yellow card. After being escorted away, Diakhaby spoke individually with the referee before walking off, together with Gabriel. The Cadiz players waited a few minutes longer before also leaving the pitch. The referee was not close to the argument between Diakhaby and Cala, and Gracia said "there was no record from the referee that this had happened". Cala was then also substituted at half-time, having earlier scored the opening goal for Cadiz, with Kevin Gameiro equalising for Valencia. Cala's replacement Marcos Lopez scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for Cadiz. Last month, Athletic Bilbao's Inaki Williams gave evidence in court as part of an investigation into Espanyol fans racially insulting him during a match in January last year. In December 2019, a second tier game between Rayo Vallecano and Albacete was suspended after Albacete refused to come out for the second half following chants from Rayo fans calling their striker Roman Zozulya a Nazi.

Valencia 'threatened with punishment' for walking off in racism protest

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle.

Not for the first time this season, United needed a second-half fightback after a dismal first 45 minutes to take all three points thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood.

Danny Welbeck deservedly opened the scoring for the Seagulls against his old club before Lewis Dunk hit the crossbar for the visitors.

However, Brighton also repeated the story of their season as they failed to make the most of their dominance before the break.

Rashford slotted home an equaliser on 62 minutes from Bruno Fernandes's pass to reward United's marked improvement.

Fernandes was involved again for the winner as his cross was volleyed back across goal by Paul Pogba and into the path of Greenwood to head home just his second league goal of the season.

United's chances of chasing down City look forlorn with the runaway league leaders needing just 11 points from their remaining seven games to seal a third title in four years.

But victory opened up an 11-point cushion for the Red Devils over fifth-placed Tottenham and Liverpool in their quest to qualify for next season's Champions League.

"It's a long way up (to City), but we want to consolidate second place," said Solskjaer.

<h2>- 'Same coach, different players' -</h2>

Spurs were left to rue letting another lead slip away at St. James' Park.

Jose Mourinho's side were just five minutes away from moving into fourth place thanks to Harry Kane's first-half double.

Joelinton had put Newcastle ahead and Steve Bruce's men were rewarded for a much-improved performance when on-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock smashed in off the underside of the bar five minutes from time.

Tottenham edge ahead of Liverpool on goal difference but are still two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with eight games left.

"I'm frustrated. We needed to win the match. We created some instability with so many individual defensive mistakes that we made," Mourinho said.

Asked why Tottenham have struggled to hold onto leads when his teams have been so solid defensively in the past, Mourinho replied: "Same coach, different players.

"The Premier League is hard and is high-level football, and when in some actions you don't show that you belong to that high level of football, it's difficult."

Willock's goal could prove invaluable for fourth-bottom Newcastle as they moved three points clear of Fulham, who were beaten 3-1 at Aston Villa.

Fulham looked set to move out of the drop zone when Aleksandar Mitrovic pounced on a loose pass by Tyrone Mings to score his first league goal since September.

Villa had looked devoid of ideas without talisman Jack Grealish due to injury.

But Dean Smith's men suddenly sparked into life to score three times in the final 12 minutes.

Egyptian winger Trezeguet came off the bench to score twice in three minutes to turn the game around.

Ollie Watkins then tapped home from Bertrand Traore's cross to round off the scoring.

<h2>- Saints alive -</h2>

Earlier on Sunday, Southampton took a huge step towards survival by coming from 2-0 down to beat Burnley 3-2.

Chris Wood's penalty and Matej Vydra's strike gave the visitors a dream start inside 28 minutes.

But Ralph Hasenhuttl's side&nbsp;hit back impressively as Stuart Armstrong and Danny Ings scored before half-time.

Nathan Redmond bagged the 66th-minute winner when he volleyed home from Theo Walcott's cross.

"These points were important," Hasenhuttl said. "When you see five goals it's always good for TV, but not so good for the hearts of the managers."

After only their second league win in 13 games, FA Cup semi-finalists Southampton are three points above Burnley, who sit seven points ahead of Fulham.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle.

Manchester United came from behind to beat Brighton 2-1 on Sunday to cut Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League to 14 points, while Tottenham's top-four challenge suffered a setback as Joe Willock's late strike rescued a 2-2 draw for lowly Newcastle. Not for the first time this season, United needed a second-half fightback after a dismal first 45 minutes to take all three points thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood. Danny Welbeck deservedly opened the scoring for the Seagulls against his old club before Lewis Dunk hit the crossbar for the visitors. However, Brighton also repeated the story of their season as they failed to make the most of their dominance before the break. Rashford slotted home an equaliser on 62 minutes from Bruno Fernandes's pass to reward United's marked improvement. Fernandes was involved again for the winner as his cross was volleyed back across goal by Paul Pogba and into the path of Greenwood to head home just his second league goal of the season. United's chances of chasing down City look forlorn with the runaway league leaders needing just 11 points from their remaining seven games to seal a third title in four years. But victory opened up an 11-point cushion for the Red Devils over fifth-placed Tottenham and Liverpool in their quest to qualify for next season's Champions League. "It's a long way up (to City), but we want to consolidate second place," said Solskjaer. - 'Same coach, different players' - Spurs were left to rue letting another lead slip away at St. James' Park. Jose Mourinho's side were just five minutes away from moving into fourth place thanks to Harry Kane's first-half double. Joelinton had put Newcastle ahead and Steve Bruce's men were rewarded for a much-improved performance when on-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock smashed in off the underside of the bar five minutes from time. Tottenham edge ahead of Liverpool on goal difference but are still two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with eight games left. "I'm frustrated. We needed to win the match. We created some instability with so many individual defensive mistakes that we made," Mourinho said. Asked why Tottenham have struggled to hold onto leads when his teams have been so solid defensively in the past, Mourinho replied: "Same coach, different players. "The Premier League is hard and is high-level football, and when in some actions you don't show that you belong to that high level of football, it's difficult." Willock's goal could prove invaluable for fourth-bottom Newcastle as they moved three points clear of Fulham, who were beaten 3-1 at Aston Villa. Fulham looked set to move out of the drop zone when Aleksandar Mitrovic pounced on a loose pass by Tyrone Mings to score his first league goal since September. Villa had looked devoid of ideas without talisman Jack Grealish due to injury. But Dean Smith's men suddenly sparked into life to score three times in the final 12 minutes. Egyptian winger Trezeguet came off the bench to score twice in three minutes to turn the game around. Ollie Watkins then tapped home from Bertrand Traore's cross to round off the scoring. - Saints alive - Earlier on Sunday, Southampton took a huge step towards survival by coming from 2-0 down to beat Burnley 3-2. Chris Wood's penalty and Matej Vydra's strike gave the visitors a dream start inside 28 minutes. But Ralph Hasenhuttl's side hit back impressively as Stuart Armstrong and Danny Ings scored before half-time. Nathan Redmond bagged the 66th-minute winner when he volleyed home from Theo Walcott's cross. "These points were important," Hasenhuttl said. "When you see five goals it's always good for TV, but not so good for the hearts of the managers." After only their second league win in 13 games, FA Cup semi-finalists Southampton are three points above Burnley, who sit seven points ahead of Fulham.

Man Utd bounce back to beat Brighton, Spurs held by Newcastle

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season.

The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League.

Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

"He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday.

"He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it.&nbsp;

"He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that.

"A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager."

The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term.

Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland.

But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year.

"So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said.

"Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future.

"Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player."

<h2>- Painful memories -</h2>

Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid.

With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign.

City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011.

Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years.

The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take.

"Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said.

"It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through.

"Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance."

The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund.

"Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said.

"The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre.

Pep Guardiola praised "exceptional" Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland as he admitted Manchester City could spend the kind of money required to sign a player of his calibre. City are one of several top clubs linked with a blockbuster move for Haaland in the close-season. The 20-year-old Norwegian is the talk of Europe after scoring 33 goals in 32 games this season, while becoming the youngest player to reach 20 career goals in the Champions League. Already well aware of Haaland's quality, City boss Guardiola has a chance to take a closer look when Dortmund visit the Etihad Stadium for the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. "He's exceptional for his age. The numbers speak for themselves," Guardiola told reporters on Monday. "He can score right, left, counter attacks, in the box, headers. He's a fantastic striker, everyone knows it. "He's only 20. To score that many goals at this age, it's not easy to find a player like that. "A blind guy can realise he's a good striker, it's not necessary to be a manager." The runaway Premier League leaders will need a new forward next season after announcing their record goalscorer Sergio Aguero is set to leave at the end of this term. Guardiola recently suggested the financial fallout from the coronavirus pandemic would make it difficult for his team to meet Dortmund's reported £130 million ($180 million) asking price for Haaland. But Guardiola dropped a hint that a bid for Haaland would not be impossible as he suggested City would eventually break their transfer record -- currently the £62 million they spent on Benfica defender Ruben Dias last year. "So far, the club has decided not to spend close to £100 million for a player," Guardiola said. "Maybe in the future it will happen when the club decides it is necessary to improve the team for the next five to 10 years. The organisation has so far decided not to and that is why we haven't. Maybe in the future. "Spending a lot of money on one player doesn't give you an advantage to win. Football is a team game, everyone makes a contribution. Competitions are not won by one player, it is every player." - Painful memories - Although Dortmund are struggling in the Bundesliga, Haaland's presence means they could pose a significant threat to City's quadruple bid. With a third Premier League title in four years a formality for City -- who are in the League Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals -- it is the Champions League that will be their focus in the final weeks of the campaign. City have never won Europe's elite club competition and Guardiola last tasted Champions League glory when he was Barcelona boss in 2011. Criticised for failing to win the Champions League without Barca star Lionel Messi, Guardiola has seen City eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament for the last three years. The Spaniard admitted last season's shock last eight defeat against Lyon in Lisbon was especially tough to take. "Of course, it remained in my head for weeks and it was painful, I cannot deny," Guardiola said. "It was the last game of the season, we wanted to go through and we accept we didn't do it well, didn't deserve to go through. "Going out to Lyon, it was different. We went out, said goodbye and went on our holidays. It was a disappointment but we are here again, with a chance." The ghosts of those bitter European defeats were on Guardiola's mind as he claimed their fine Premier League form would not be a factor against Dortmund. "Why should we win the other competitions just because we are leading the Premier League?" he said. "The only concern is to try to win the game. Win this game and after comes Leeds, and after we go to Dortmund to win that game."

Guardiola hails 'exceptional' Haaland amid bid talk

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far.

Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique.

"Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola.

"I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won).

"So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him."

Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club.

"We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said.

"We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them."

Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow.

Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season.

Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968.

But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures.

"When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said.

"Of course the fans always will be grateful."

This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero.

He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection.

However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style.

"I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season.

Sergio Aguero is "irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans," Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said of the club's record goalscorer who is to leave at the end of the season. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011, three years after the club was taken over by Abu Dhabi owners, and will leave after 10 trophy-laden years, with 257 goals in 384 games so far. Guardiola said 32-year-old Aguero's goals tally could be surpassed one day, but what he means to the club was unique. "Sergio is irreplaceable," said Guardiola. "I could say in terms of numbers he can be replaceable, it's not easy when you see more than 360 games played and more than 250 goals, the amount of titles (he has won). "So it's the legend, the best striker this club has ever had for this century through the years, but is irreplaceable in the souls, in the hearts, in the minds of our fans, of our people, of the players that played alongside him and all the managers who worked with him." Guardiola said he felt blessed when he took over as manager in 2016 to have such stalwarts as Aguero at the club. "We were so lucky, the guys who came after him -- me as a manager for example," he said. "We took over the club and he was one of the guys like Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Vincent Kompany, David Silva, many players helped this club make a step forward and of course he was one of them." Guardiola said the Argentinian had been pivotal in helping City become a domestic football superpower after decades of living in city rivals Manchester United's shadow. Aguero's most memorable moment for City fans will remain a goal scored in the final game of the 2011/12 season. Manchester United were seconds away from celebrating yet another Premier League title, prolonging the agony of their neighbours, who had not been crowned English champions since 1968. But Aguero had other ideas, receiving the ball from Mario Balotelli and thundering home a finish to secure a 3-2 victory against QPR and send the Etihad into raptures. "When he came here the club was in one level, and he helped to put the club in a higher level," Guardiola said. "Of course the fans always will be grateful." This season, though, has been a struggle for Aguero. He had knee surgery in the close season. A hamstring problem complicated his comeback and then he had to sit out a month after a coronavirus infection. However, with City bidding for a historic quadruple trophy sweep -- Aguero looks all but certain to share in a fifth league title -- Guardiola says the Argentine has time to sign off in style. "I think he still has interesting goals to score this season," said Guardiola.

'Irreplaceable' Aguero won hearts and minds of City fans: Guardiola

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship.

The measure had been in place since last year in reaction to the coronavirus pandemic but travelling supporters are still barred from attending.

"Such a cap is no longer needed and... the decision on the number of permitted spectators should fall under the exclusive responsibility of the relevant competent local/national authorities," European football's governing body said.

"In view of the ongoing travel restrictions and in order to enact reasonable and responsible policies to minimize Covid-19 related risks, the Executive Committee decided to confirm the decision of 1 October 2020 insofar that visiting fans are not allowed to attend UEFA competition matches.

"This is valid until prior to the club competition finals taking place in May 2021," it added.

Earlier this month UEFA told AFP it wanted supporters at all games, played across 12 different countries from June 11-July 11.

The tournament has been postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 oubtreak.

"If a city proposes a 'no fans' scenario" the matches due to be held there "could" be switched "to cities able to welcome supporters", the body said on March 17.

Host cities have until April 7 to let UEFA know what their scenarios are in terms of attendance ahead of an executive committee meeting on April 19, on the eve of the federation's annual congress in Montreux, Switzerland.

The multi-venue format, whilst complex, gives organisers flexibility to deal with issues arising from the pandemic.

"If we can no longer do anything in one country there are still 11 others where preparations are already in progress," UEFA's health advisor Daniel Koch told AFP at the start of the month.

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship.

UEFA announced on Wednesday it had ended its 30-percent spectator limit in stadiums, potentially allowing host nations to choose their own restrictions at this summer's continent-wide European Championship. The measure had been in place since last year in reaction to the coronavirus pandemic but travelling supporters are still barred from attending. "Such a cap is no longer needed and... the decision on the number of permitted spectators should fall under the exclusive responsibility of the relevant competent local/national authorities," European football's governing body said. "In view of the ongoing travel restrictions and in order to enact reasonable and responsible policies to minimize Covid-19 related risks, the Executive Committee decided to confirm the decision of 1 October 2020 insofar that visiting fans are not allowed to attend UEFA competition matches. "This is valid until prior to the club competition finals taking place in May 2021," it added. Earlier this month UEFA told AFP it wanted supporters at all games, played across 12 different countries from June 11-July 11. The tournament has been postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 oubtreak. "If a city proposes a 'no fans' scenario" the matches due to be held there "could" be switched "to cities able to welcome supporters", the body said on March 17. Host cities have until April 7 to let UEFA know what their scenarios are in terms of attendance ahead of an executive committee meeting on April 19, on the eve of the federation's annual congress in Montreux, Switzerland. The multi-venue format, whilst complex, gives organisers flexibility to deal with issues arising from the pandemic. "If we can no longer do anything in one country there are still 11 others where preparations are already in progress," UEFA's health advisor Daniel Koch told AFP at the start of the month.

UEFA hands Euro 2020 spectator limit responsibility to host cities

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state.

"I think the awarding of the World Cup to Qatar was not a good thing for several reasons," said Kroos in his podcast 'Einfach mal Luppen' (Just lob it), which he co-hosts with his brother Felix.

"The first reason is the conditions of the workers... then the fact that homosexuality is penalised and punished in Qatar... and also that it is not a football country," added the 31-year-old midfielder.

"Many Qatari workers, but also foreigners, work without a break, in temperatures that can reach 50 degrees (Celsius).

"They sometimes suffer from a lack of food or drinking water, which is madness in those temperatures.

"They have no medical coverage and there is a certain amount of violence against these workers.

"These are points which are completely unacceptable."

Kroos comments came after the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Norway all protested by wearing T-shirts with messages such as "Human Rights" or "Football supports change" before World Cup qualifiers over the last week.

Several players confirmed the protests were aimed at Qatar.

Qatar has faced criticisms for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.&nbsp;

Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare.

Kroos, who helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup, explained why he is against a boycott of the 2022 finals and said footballers should use their platform to call for change in Qatar.

"The visibility of the World Cup may draw even more attention to these problems" and "a boycott would probably not change much about the situation for the workers there", Kroos added.

The Madrid playmaker has been sidelined for Germany's three qualifiers over the last week with a groin injury.

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state.

Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has sharply criticised 2022 World Cup host nation Qatar in the wake of several European teams protesting about conditions in the Emirate state. "I think the awarding of the World Cup to Qatar was not a good thing for several reasons," said Kroos in his podcast 'Einfach mal Luppen' (Just lob it), which he co-hosts with his brother Felix. "The first reason is the conditions of the workers... then the fact that homosexuality is penalised and punished in Qatar... and also that it is not a football country," added the 31-year-old midfielder. "Many Qatari workers, but also foreigners, work without a break, in temperatures that can reach 50 degrees (Celsius). "They sometimes suffer from a lack of food or drinking water, which is madness in those temperatures. "They have no medical coverage and there is a certain amount of violence against these workers. "These are points which are completely unacceptable." Kroos comments came after the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Norway all protested by wearing T-shirts with messages such as "Human Rights" or "Football supports change" before World Cup qualifiers over the last week. Several players confirmed the protests were aimed at Qatar. Qatar has faced criticisms for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the 2022 World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare. Kroos, who helped Germany win the 2014 World Cup, explained why he is against a boycott of the 2022 finals and said footballers should use their platform to call for change in Qatar. "The visibility of the World Cup may draw even more attention to these problems" and "a boycott would probably not change much about the situation for the workers there", Kroos added. The Madrid playmaker has been sidelined for Germany's three qualifiers over the last week with a groin injury.

Germany's Kroos slams World Cup hosts Qatar amid protests

Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-set-to-approve-new-champions-league-format-at-april-meeting-374455" hreflang="en">UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting</a>

A steward at the stadium picked it up and immediately contacted a regional sports channel with the idea of auctioning it for charity. He told AFP that he suggested raising funds required to treat a six-month-old baby, Gavrilo Djurdjevic, who is suffering from a rare disease.

"He (Ronaldo) threw the armband three metres away from me, and the idea immediately occurred to me that this (sale) could be a good opportunity," the man told AFP by phone.

"I realised we had some attention and could do something nice for Gavrilo", he added.

Sportklub, the sports channel, verified the arm band's authenticity by checking post-match photos and videos. The channel then teamed up with a charity organisation and put Ronaldo's armband up for a bidding contest on auctioning website Limundo.com.

"I hope we will be able to reach Ronaldo himself... so we could help Gavrilo as much as we can," Branislav Jocic, social media manager of Sportklub told AFP.

The six-month-old infant is suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which affects about one in 10,000 births, and results in death or the need for permanent ventilation by the age of two in 90 per cent of cases. However, the child's looking at one-time gene treatment Zolgensma, which is also known as the "world's most expensive drug". The treatment costs over two million euros ($2.35 million).

Within hours of being put on auction, on Tuesday, the armband reached the price of 360,000 dinars (around 3,000 euros) -- donations can also be made direct to the charity.

(Inputs from AFP)

Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground.

Cristiano Ronaldo was left fuming after Portugal were controversially denied a late winner at the weekend in the World Cup qualifier against Serbia. The Portuguese skipper received a yellow card for his protests and at the final whistle, he stormed off the pitch and threw his captain's armband to the ground. ALSO READ: UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting A steward at the stadium picked it up and immediately contacted a regional sports channel with the idea of auctioning it for charity. He told AFP that he suggested raising funds required to treat a six-month-old baby, Gavrilo Djurdjevic, who is suffering from a rare disease. "He (Ronaldo) threw the armband three metres away from me, and the idea immediately occurred to me that this (sale) could be a good opportunity," the man told AFP by phone. "I realised we had some attention and could do something nice for Gavrilo", he added. Sportklub, the sports channel, verified the arm band's authenticity by checking post-match photos and videos. The channel then teamed up with a charity organisation and put Ronaldo's armband up for a bidding contest on auctioning website Limundo.com. "I hope we will be able to reach Ronaldo himself... so we could help Gavrilo as much as we can," Branislav Jocic, social media manager of Sportklub told AFP. The six-month-old infant is suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which affects about one in 10,000 births, and results in death or the need for permanent ventilation by the age of two in 90 per cent of cases. However, the child's looking at one-time gene treatment Zolgensma, which is also known as the "world's most expensive drug". The treatment costs over two million euros ($2.35 million). Within hours of being put on auction, on Tuesday, the armband reached the price of 360,000 dinars (around 3,000 euros) -- donations can also be made direct to the charity. (Inputs from AFP)

Cristiano Ronaldo's anger turns into blessing as his 'thrown' armband gets auctioned for charity

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday.

Last week European Leagues, a body representing the interests of clubs and leagues in 30 countries across the continent, said UEFA would make a decision on the expected changes at a meeting this Wednesday.

UEFA confirmed it will discuss plans at this week's meeting of its executive committee but will wait for the next one before finalising the changes.

"The future of club competitions post-2024 will be one of the topics discussed," UEFA said in a statement.

"However, any official decision in this respect will only be made at the next UEFA executive committee meeting on April 19, in order to finalise ongoing discussions."

The April 19 meeting is also set to see UEFA confirm how it will organise the delayed Euro 2020, which is due to go ahead in 12 cities spread across the continent but could be modified depending on what venues allow spectators to attend games during the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, the Champions League changes -- which are expected to be radical -- will dominate discussions.

The changes are expected to increase the number of clubs involved in the group stage from the current 32 to 36.

The existing group-stage format, consisting of eight groups of four teams, will be completely shaken up.

In its place, UEFA is expected to introduce a single pool and a format known as the 'Swiss system', which will see teams playing 10 games instead of the current six.

No team will face anyone else more than once in a system more commonly used in chess.

The teams finishing in the top eight positions of the single pool will advance to the last 16, with the bottom 12 eliminated.

Meanwhile, the sides finishing between ninth and 24th place will go on to play two-legged play-off ties to decide the final eight slots in the knockout phase.

The knock-out stages will then proceed in the same manner as now, but the changes will mean a large increase in the number of matches played, with a team reaching the final playing a minimum of 17 matches compared to 13 in the present format.

The consequences are a huge increase in the overall number of games played, from 125 to 225, with the total number of group-stage matches jumping from 96 to 180.

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday.

An official announcement on planned radical changes to the format of the UEFA Champions League from 2024 onwards is set to be made on April 19, European football's governing body said on Tuesday. Last week European Leagues, a body representing the interests of clubs and leagues in 30 countries across the continent, said UEFA would make a decision on the expected changes at a meeting this Wednesday. UEFA confirmed it will discuss plans at this week's meeting of its executive committee but will wait for the next one before finalising the changes. "The future of club competitions post-2024 will be one of the topics discussed," UEFA said in a statement. "However, any official decision in this respect will only be made at the next UEFA executive committee meeting on April 19, in order to finalise ongoing discussions." The April 19 meeting is also set to see UEFA confirm how it will organise the delayed Euro 2020, which is due to go ahead in 12 cities spread across the continent but could be modified depending on what venues allow spectators to attend games during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the Champions League changes -- which are expected to be radical -- will dominate discussions. The changes are expected to increase the number of clubs involved in the group stage from the current 32 to 36. The existing group-stage format, consisting of eight groups of four teams, will be completely shaken up. In its place, UEFA is expected to introduce a single pool and a format known as the 'Swiss system', which will see teams playing 10 games instead of the current six. No team will face anyone else more than once in a system more commonly used in chess. The teams finishing in the top eight positions of the single pool will advance to the last 16, with the bottom 12 eliminated. Meanwhile, the sides finishing between ninth and 24th place will go on to play two-legged play-off ties to decide the final eight slots in the knockout phase. The knock-out stages will then proceed in the same manner as now, but the changes will mean a large increase in the number of matches played, with a team reaching the final playing a minimum of 17 matches compared to 13 in the present format. The consequences are a huge increase in the overall number of games played, from 125 to 225, with the total number of group-stage matches jumping from 96 to 180.

UEFA set to approve new Champions League format at April meeting

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Benzema will be tried in Versailles from October 20-22, the court said.

The 33-year-old striker faces up to five years in prison and a 75,000-euro fine in the case in which four other men are being prosecuted for attempted blackmail.&nbsp;

Benzema made 81 international appearances but has not been selected for his country since the affair came to light in 2015. He has scored 22 goals for Real Madrid this season and is the third top scorer in La Liga with 17.

The October 20 start of the trial coincides with one of the dates UEFA has provisionally set for the third round of matches in next season's Champions League group stage.&nbsp;

He is accused of involvement in a plot to extort money from Valbuena by threatening to make the video public.

Valbuena, who was selected 52 times for France, received a call from a blackmailer who threatened to release the video, and contacted the police.

The case centres on a conversation between the two men in Clairefontaine, the France team's training centre, in October 2015.&nbsp;

Benzema told Valbuena that he could "introduce someone he trusted" to Valbuena, according to the latter, to help him "manage" the possible publication of this compromising video.&nbsp;

"Be careful Math, they're big, big thugs," Benzema reportedly said.

It was a way of "helping" his teammate, Benzema later explained.

Valbuena said he had "the impression of being taken for a fool".&nbsp;

It will be up to the courts to determine whether this exchange was friendly advice or criminal pressure.&nbsp;

Benzema has described the trial as a "farce" in an Instagram post. Real refused to comment on the decision to go to trial.

The footballer has argued during the long investigation into the accusations that a police officer used dishonest methods to draw him into the affair.

The former Liverpool and France forward Djibril Cisse, who had spoken to Valbuena about the sex tape in May 2015, was initially targeted by prosecutors but they decided in January to take no further action against him.

When Benzema was referred to the Versailles criminal court in January, his lawyer Sylvain Cormier said the &nbsp;decision "was as absurd as it was predictable".

Valbuena's lawyer,&nbsp;Paul-Albert Iweins, said it was "the logical next step in an investigation that has perfectly established the participation of different people".&nbsp;

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday.

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema's trial for "complicity in attempted blackmail" over a sex tape involving former France team-mate Mathieu Valbuena will be held in October, a court official told AFP on Tuesday. Benzema will be tried in Versailles from October 20-22, the court said. The 33-year-old striker faces up to five years in prison and a 75,000-euro fine in the case in which four other men are being prosecuted for attempted blackmail. Benzema made 81 international appearances but has not been selected for his country since the affair came to light in 2015. He has scored 22 goals for Real Madrid this season and is the third top scorer in La Liga with 17. The October 20 start of the trial coincides with one of the dates UEFA has provisionally set for the third round of matches in next season's Champions League group stage. He is accused of involvement in a plot to extort money from Valbuena by threatening to make the video public. Valbuena, who was selected 52 times for France, received a call from a blackmailer who threatened to release the video, and contacted the police. The case centres on a conversation between the two men in Clairefontaine, the France team's training centre, in October 2015. Benzema told Valbuena that he could "introduce someone he trusted" to Valbuena, according to the latter, to help him "manage" the possible publication of this compromising video. "Be careful Math, they're big, big thugs," Benzema reportedly said. It was a way of "helping" his teammate, Benzema later explained. Valbuena said he had "the impression of being taken for a fool". It will be up to the courts to determine whether this exchange was friendly advice or criminal pressure. Benzema has described the trial as a "farce" in an Instagram post. Real refused to comment on the decision to go to trial. The footballer has argued during the long investigation into the accusations that a police officer used dishonest methods to draw him into the affair. The former Liverpool and France forward Djibril Cisse, who had spoken to Valbuena about the sex tape in May 2015, was initially targeted by prosecutors but they decided in January to take no further action against him. When Benzema was referred to the Versailles criminal court in January, his lawyer Sylvain Cormier said the decision "was as absurd as it was predictable". Valbuena's lawyer, Paul-Albert Iweins, said it was "the logical next step in an investigation that has perfectly established the participation of different people".

October date set for Benzema's trial in sex tape case

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland.

City announced on Monday that their all-time top scorer Aguero would leave the club at the end of the season, leaving manager Pep Guardiola, who has only one other central striker in Gabriel Jesus, badly in need of a top-quality striker.

The 20-year-old Haaland, widely reported to be City's number one choice, was close to joining local rivals Manchester United last January before moving to Dortmund.

United remain firmly interested in signing the prolific forward who worked under their Norwegian manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as an emerging talent with Molde.

Haaland's goalscoring record is extraordinary: Since joining Dortmund from RB Salzburg he has scored 49 goals in 49 games in all competitions. At the highest level, in the Champions League, Haaland has scored 12 goals in eight games.

The blond-haired striker made his mark with eight goals in six Champions League games with Salzburg along with 29 in 27 appearances in the Austrian league.

Last year he was available for just 20 million euros based on a buyout clause in his deal with Salzburg, and given Solskjaer's relationship with Haaland, United were confident of signing the continent's most exciting goalscorer at a bargain price.

But Haaland's agent Mino Raiola, who is also Paul Pogba's representative, has had a turbulent relationship with the Old Trafford hierarchy, whom he has publicly criticised.

The forward opted to join Dortmund, but Raiola suggested on Tuesday that may have been a mistake.

"With Haaland, everybody was wrong. He did things much quicker than everybody imagined," the Dutch-Italian agent told The Athletic website.

"Haaland is in front of his own development. He is ahead of his own schedule. Maybe I was too careful when I said, 'Oh no, let's move to Dortmund instead of I-don't-know-where'," he said.

"I'm 100% convinced and everybody's convinced — (he) can move to any club, wherever he wants, already on this level. And he could have done that last year," he said.

United recently promoted John Murtough to be their Football Director, effectively heading the club's transfer strategy, and he will quickly be under pressure to deliver some major upgrades for Solskjaer ahead of next season.

United have struggled to land high-profile targets in recent years, and as well as missing out on Haaland, failed to reach agreement with Dortmund on England winger Jadon Sancho last year.

City have a much better record in signing their top targets, and adding to the mix, Haaland's father Alf-Inge also played for the club.

United and City each have the resources to make the right offer to both Dortmund and the player, but it would be no surprise if other top European clubs were to join the race in what could become a record-breaking deal.

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland.

Sergio Aguero's departure from Manchester City looks set to kick-start a "derby" between City and Manchester United for the signature of Europe's hottest striking talent - Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland. City announced on Monday that their all-time top scorer Aguero would leave the club at the end of the season, leaving manager Pep Guardiola, who has only one other central striker in Gabriel Jesus, badly in need of a top-quality striker. The 20-year-old Haaland, widely reported to be City's number one choice, was close to joining local rivals Manchester United last January before moving to Dortmund. United remain firmly interested in signing the prolific forward who worked under their Norwegian manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as an emerging talent with Molde. Haaland's goalscoring record is extraordinary: Since joining Dortmund from RB Salzburg he has scored 49 goals in 49 games in all competitions. At the highest level, in the Champions League, Haaland has scored 12 goals in eight games. The blond-haired striker made his mark with eight goals in six Champions League games with Salzburg along with 29 in 27 appearances in the Austrian league. Last year he was available for just 20 million euros based on a buyout clause in his deal with Salzburg, and given Solskjaer's relationship with Haaland, United were confident of signing the continent's most exciting goalscorer at a bargain price. But Haaland's agent Mino Raiola, who is also Paul Pogba's representative, has had a turbulent relationship with the Old Trafford hierarchy, whom he has publicly criticised. The forward opted to join Dortmund, but Raiola suggested on Tuesday that may have been a mistake. "With Haaland, everybody was wrong. He did things much quicker than everybody imagined," the Dutch-Italian agent told The Athletic website. "Haaland is in front of his own development. He is ahead of his own schedule. Maybe I was too careful when I said, 'Oh no, let's move to Dortmund instead of I-don't-know-where'," he said. "I'm 100% convinced and everybody's convinced — (he) can move to any club, wherever he wants, already on this level. And he could have done that last year," he said. United recently promoted John Murtough to be their Football Director, effectively heading the club's transfer strategy, and he will quickly be under pressure to deliver some major upgrades for Solskjaer ahead of next season. United have struggled to land high-profile targets in recent years, and as well as missing out on Haaland, failed to reach agreement with Dortmund on England winger Jadon Sancho last year. City have a much better record in signing their top targets, and adding to the mix, Haaland's father Alf-Inge also played for the club. United and City each have the resources to make the right offer to both Dortmund and the player, but it would be no surprise if other top European clubs were to join the race in what could become a record-breaking deal.

Aguero's City exit kick-starts Manchester race to sign Haaland

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state.

Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar.

Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday.

Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.

"We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for."

The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup.

Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June.

<h2>- Could there be a boycott? -</h2>

"It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich.

Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem".

Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.

However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers".

"Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement.

Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a&nbsp;guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to&nbsp;workers.

<h2>- 'Extremely positive' -</h2>

There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps.

It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar.

The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests.

"FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP.

Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf.

"It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square.

"I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state. Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar. Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday. Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka. "We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for." The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup. Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June. - Could there be a boycott? - "It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich. Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem". Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers". "Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement. Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to workers. - 'Extremely positive' - There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps. It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar. The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests. "FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP. Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf. "It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square. "I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Qatar human rights protests spread across World Cup qualifiers

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer.

He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League.

"When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media.

"A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age.

"I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added.

In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker.

"Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said.

"This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League.

"In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added.

Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23.

The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times.

Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June.&nbsp;

Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October.

City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July.

Argentina striker Sergio Aguero said on Monday he was "proud" of his time at Manchester City after announcing his departure when his contract runs out this July. Aguero joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and has 257 goals in 384 games since, making him their record goal-scorer. He scored the dramatic winning goal as they edged local rivals Manchester United to the 2012 Premier League. "When a cycle comes to an end, many sensations arise," he posted on social media. "A huge sense of satisfaction and pride remains in me for having played with Manchester City for a whole ten seasons - unusual for a professional player this day and age. "I will continue to give it my utmost for the rest of the season to win more titles and bring more joy to the fans," he added. In a club statement, City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said he would reserve any farewell speeches until Aguero leaves, but revealed he had commissioned a statue of the striker. "Sergio's contribution to Manchester City over the last 10 years cannot be overstated," Al Mubarak said. "This is not yet the moment for farewell words and speeches. There is still much to achieve," he said with City in the running for their first ever Champions League and hot favourites to win the Premier League. "In the meantime, it gives me great pleasure to announce that we will be commissioning an artist to create a statue of Sergio to live at the Etihad Stadium," he added. Newspaper Manchester Evening News said City were planning a farewell party for Aguero after their final game of the Premier League season against Everton May 23. The 32-year-old contracted Covid-19 in January after a season already ravaged by injury and he has played 14 games for City this term, scoring three times. Aguero missed the end of last season and the start of the current campaign after undergoing knee surgery last June. Since then he has had another lay-off after suffering a hamstring injury in October. City coach Pep Guardiola said last week he may not be able to give Sergio Aguero much time on the pitch before his contract expires.

'Proud' Aguero to leave Man City

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar.

The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes.

Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards.

The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights.

The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles.

"We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer.

"We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination.

"That's what we wanted to show.

"The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer.

Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier.

The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests.

"Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website.

"But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices.

"We play for people and not for governments."

However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals.

"We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added.

"Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights".&nbsp;

Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late".

"We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010.

Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday.

Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey.

The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state.

The Germany football team came up with a cryptic message on Sunday in their latest protest aimed at 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar. The Germans joined Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands in a growing movement in support of workers involved in building World Cup venues in the Gulf state. Human rights groups have been heavily critical of the treatment of migrant workers, claims Qatar disputes. Before their 1-0 win over Romania in Bucharest on Sunday, the German team briefly reversed their shirts prior to kick-off with the numbers facing forwards. The subtle gesture was intended to draw attention to the United Nations' 30-point declaration of Human Rights. The German FA account posted "We are 30!" over a picture of the team on Twitter with each players' number referring to one of the articles. "We all stand for fair play, not only on the pitch but also off it," said Germany captain Manuel Neuer. "We stand for these 30 human rights articles, for diversity and against discrimination. "That's what we wanted to show. "The idea came from the team again, as it did before the match against Iceland," added Neuer. Last Thursday, the German team wore T-shirts which spelt out "Human Rights" before their 3-0 win over Iceland in their opening qualifier. The German Football Association (DFB) has supported the national team's protests. "Every single sign is powerful and effective," said DFB president Fritz Keller in a statement on their website. "But of course we must and will continue to raise our voices. "We play for people and not for governments." However, Keller implied the German FA is against boycotting the 2022 finals. "We are in contact with... experts from non-governmental organisations," he added. "Amnesty International advises against a boycott and rather demands dialogue with those involved, setting clear signals - as the national team did" by wearing the T-shirts which spelt "Human Rights". Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich has said talk of a boycott is "10 years too late". "We should have thought about it at the time," he added, referring to the World Cup finals being awarded to Qatar back in 2010. Elsewhere, Danish players wore shirts with "Football supports CHANGE" before their qualifier against Moldova on Sunday. Norway also wore t-shirts stating "Human rights, on and off the pitch" prior to recent games against Gibraltar and Turkey. The Dutch team also wore T-shirts with the message "Football supports CHANGE" before their 1-0 win over Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday.

Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

"In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement.

Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season.

"VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added.

It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT).

Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear.

The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time.

"I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram.

Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team.

Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia.

"How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE.

VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League.

FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced.

European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials.

UEFA has said the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic meant plans to use VAR in the European 2022 World Cup qualifiers had to be abandoned after a weekend in which Cristiano Ronaldo's anger at being denied a late winner for Portugal against Serbia highlighted the lack of technology to help officials. "In 2019, UEFA had proposed to FIFA the implementation of VAR in the current World Cup qualifiers. The impact of the pandemic on operational and logistical capabilities led UEFA to delay the implementation of VAR in the Europa League group phase as well as to withdraw the proposal to implement VAR in the 2022 European qualifiers," UEFA said in a statement. Video assistant referees are now set to come into the Europa League group stage as of next season. "VAR was also not in use in the UEFA Nations League group stage in the autumn of 2020 and has therefore to-date never been used in UEFA national team qualifying group stage matches," European football's governing body added. It follows several moments of controversy since the start of qualifying last week for the Qatar World Cup, with the Ronaldo flashpoint casting a light on the lack of any goal-line technology (GLT). Ronaldo thought he had scored a stoppage-time winner for Portugal in Belgrade as footage appeared to show the ball had crossed the line before Serbia defender Stefan Mitrovic could clear. The Portugal captain was booked for protesting by Dutch referee Danny Makkelie as play was waved on and the game finished in a 2-2 draw. Ronaldo threw away his captain's armband in disgust at full-time. "I always give and will give everything for my country, that will never change. But there are difficult times to deal with, especially when we feel that an entire nation is being harmed," Ronaldo later posted on Instagram. Portuguese sports daily A Bola on Monday published an interview with Makkelie in which the official said he had apologised to coach Fernando Santos and the Portugal team. Elsewhere Spain defender Inigo Martinez claimed that a penalty given against his side in a 1-1 draw with Greece would not have been awarded had video assistant referees been available, while Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny felt they were denied a spot-kick in their defeat by Serbia. "How can there not be VAR? There is for some matches and not for others. I don't understand how. There's nothing we can do about that now," Kenny told Irish broadcaster RTE. VAR and goal-line technology are used in leading European leagues as well as the UEFA Champions League. FIFA introduced GLT at the 2014 World Cup and VAR in 2018 in Russia, and its regulations for the 2022 qualifiers do make it possible for video assistant referees and goal-line technology to be introduced. European World Cup qualifying action continues this week with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Pandemic blamed for lack of VAR in World Cup qualifiers after Ronaldo fury

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment.

Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online.

Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed.

Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse.

Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only&nbsp;a mass boycott would have an impact.

"If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward.&nbsp;

"If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help.

"If that was the case I'm all for that."

Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe".

"People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner.

"It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon.

"Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts."

Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year.

Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts.

Wales star Gareth Bale said he would be willing to join a boycott of social media to tackle online abuse after former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry disabled his accounts. Henry quit social media at the weekend, saying he would stay away until platforms did more to tackle "toxic" racism and harassment. Two of Bale's Wales team-mates, Ben Cabango and Rabbi Matondo, were racially abused on Instagram following Saturday's 1-0 friendly win over Mexico -- the latest footballers to be attacked online. Matondo criticised Instagram for not reacting quickly enough, saying if he had posted images of the match they would have been removed. Facebook, which owns Instagram, later removed a number of accounts that were used for the racial abuse. Bale, speaking on Monday, on the eve of Wales's 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Czech Republic, said only a mass boycott would have an impact. "If everyone did it at once, not just one or two people, I would," said the 31-year-old forward. "If it was a campaign where a lot of influential people in sport and other forms of life on social media (acted) to make a statement then I think it could help. "If that was the case I'm all for that." Henry, who had 2.3 million followers on Twitter and 2.7 million on Instagram, told broadcaster ITV that he would return to social media when it was "safe". "People are getting racially abused but, when you see the statement (he made), I talk also about bullying, harassment that can cause mental issues, people commit suicide because of it," said the 1998 World Cup winner. "It's very difficult to eradicate everything but can it be safer? We all know that it is a great tool but a lot of people are using it as a weapon. "Why? Because they can hide behind fake accounts." Instagram took action in relation to 6.6 million elements of hate speech between October and December last year. Twitter has said it will cooperate with authorities to erase racial abuse and hate-filled posts but would stop short of banning anonymous accounts

Bale willing to boycott social media over abuse of footballers

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big.

Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game. The imbalance was caused by the left post not being sunk correctly into the ground.

As the ground staff tried to bring new goal-post into the pitch, the bars got stuck in one of the shelters of the tunnel, causing another delay in the process.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-again-protest-for-human-rights-with-cryptic-message-374007" hreflang="en">Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The goal in the Switzerland VS Lithuania game turned out to be too BIG! 🥅 
 
And then the replacement goal got caught on the tunnel! 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/PtSBK70QGs">pic.twitter.com/PtSBK70QGs</a>
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballdaily/status/1376459568730009602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even a police officer was seen helping remove the outsized posts which were eventually replaced by a spare set that matches the official requirements.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-switched-off-jota-says-after-ronaldo-denied-winner-373896" hreflang="en">We switched off, Jota says after Ronaldo denied winner</a>

Switzerland went on to win the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from Xherdan Shaqiri after just two minutes.

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big. Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game.

The start of the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Switzerland and Lithuania was delayed by 15 minutes on Sunday due to the goal-posts being too big. Ground staff at the Kybunpark Stadium was called into action in a bid to replace the goal-posts which media reports claimed were between five to 10 cm too high on one side when inspected by match officials before the start of the game. The imbalance was caused by the left post not being sunk correctly into the ground. As the ground staff tried to bring new goal-post into the pitch, the bars got stuck in one of the shelters of the tunnel, causing another delay in the process. ALSO READ: Germany again protest for human rights with cryptic message The goal in the Switzerland VS Lithuania game turned out to be too BIG! 🥅 And then the replacement goal got caught on the tunnel! 🤣 pic.twitter.com/PtSBK70QGs — Football Daily (@footballdaily) March 29, 2021 × Even a police officer was seen helping remove the outsized posts which were eventually replaced by a spare set that matches the official requirements. ALSO READ: We switched off, Jota says after Ronaldo denied winner Switzerland went on to win the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from Xherdan Shaqiri after just two minutes.

Goalposts too big! Switzerland vs Lithuania WC qualifier delayed under bizarre circumstances - watch

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms. Henry said he will be disabling his social media accounts till authorities take substantial action&nbsp;against racist comments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Henry, in a statement, said that "the people in power" are quick to react to copyright infringement but don't show the same "vigour&nbsp;and ferocity” when it comes to tackling or taking action against racism and online bullying.&nbsp;

The former Arsenal forward said that it has become extremely easy for individuals to create accounts while remaining anonymous to "bully and harass” people while hoping a change will soon come.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-fifa-punishment-for-germany-national-team-despite-human-rights-protest-373460" hreflang="en">No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3f4b3bf7-5806-4a1b-9365-bb89a2aed36d}{14}" paraid="393668628" >Thierry&nbsp;Henry’s&nbsp;full&nbsp;statement:&nbsp;</h2>

Hi Guys&nbsp;

From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same&nbsp;vigour&nbsp;and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright. The sheer volume of racism, bullying and resulting mental torture to individuals is too toxic to ignore. There HAS to be some accountability. It is far too easy to create an account, use it to bully and harass without consequence and still remain anonymous. Until this changes, I will be disabling my accounts across all social platforms. I’m hoping this happens soon.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hi Guys 
 
From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright.... <a href="https://t.co/gXSObqo4xg">pic.twitter.com/gXSObqo4xg</a>
— Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThierryHenry/status/1375405445108674571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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There has been plenty of debate on whether social media platforms and the top hierarchy are doing enough to tackle growing racism online. Borussia Dortmund recently had condemned racist abuse towards Jude Bellingham after he posted screenshots of comments on the photo-blogging platform Instagram.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hamilton-educates-himself-as-bahrain-gp-under-fire-over-alleged-rights-abuses-373323" hreflang="en">Hamilton 'educates' himself as Bahrain GP under fire over alleged rights abuses</a>

“Social media platforms from our perspective clearly haven’t done enough to eradicate this problem, both from a technology perspective and from a monitoring perspective and finding out who is behind these accounts,” Jonas Baer-Hoffmann told AFP.&nbsp;

Not only Bellingham, the likes of Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling among other prominent stars in football world have been subjected to racist abuse on social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FIFPro's&nbsp;"Shaping Our Future" had highlighted the role played by footballers to fight for social justice but pointed at the prevalence of abuse inside stadiums.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Football overall has a significant problem with racism. At the moment we are so concentrated on social media, because it is getting worse, but also because we are not experiencing the same&nbsp;problems&nbsp;we had pre-Covid in stadiums because there are no people there,” Baer-Hoffmann added.&nbsp;

“Before Covid came essentially we had&nbsp;reports&nbsp;every week about horrendous attacks on players in stadiums, and that problem will come back I’m pretty sure.”&nbsp;

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms.

Footballing legend Thierry Henry on Friday announced that he will be quitting social media in a bid to take a strong stand against racism and bullying on social media platforms. Henry said he will be disabling his social media accounts till authorities take substantial action against racist comments. Henry, in a statement, said that "the people in power" are quick to react to copyright infringement but don't show the same "vigour and ferocity” when it comes to tackling or taking action against racism and online bullying. The former Arsenal forward said that it has become extremely easy for individuals to create accounts while remaining anonymous to "bully and harass” people while hoping a change will soon come. ALSO READ: No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest Thierry Henry’s full statement: Hi Guys From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright. The sheer volume of racism, bullying and resulting mental torture to individuals is too toxic to ignore. There HAS to be some accountability. It is far too easy to create an account, use it to bully and harass without consequence and still remain anonymous. Until this changes, I will be disabling my accounts across all social platforms. I’m hoping this happens soon. Hi Guys From tomorrow morning I will be removing myself from social media until the people in power are able to regulate their platforms with the same vigour and ferocity that they currently do when you infringe copyright.... pic.twitter.com/gXSObqo4xg — Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) March 26, 2021 × There has been plenty of debate on whether social media platforms and the top hierarchy are doing enough to tackle growing racism online. Borussia Dortmund recently had condemned racist abuse towards Jude Bellingham after he posted screenshots of comments on the photo-blogging platform Instagram. ALSO READ: Hamilton 'educates' himself as Bahrain GP under fire over alleged rights abuses “Social media platforms from our perspective clearly haven’t done enough to eradicate this problem, both from a technology perspective and from a monitoring perspective and finding out who is behind these accounts,” Jonas Baer-Hoffmann told AFP. Not only Bellingham, the likes of Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling among other prominent stars in football world have been subjected to racist abuse on social media. FIFPro's "Shaping Our Future" had highlighted the role played by footballers to fight for social justice but pointed at the prevalence of abuse inside stadiums. “Football overall has a significant problem with racism. At the moment we are so concentrated on social media, because it is getting worse, but also because we are not experiencing the same problems we had pre-Covid in stadiums because there are no people there,” Baer-Hoffmann added. “Before Covid came essentially we had reports every week about horrendous attacks on players in stadiums, and that problem will come back I’m pretty sure.”

Football legend Thierry Henry quits social media to fight racism, online bullying

FIFA on Friday said it will not&nbsp;sanction&nbsp;the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday.&nbsp;

Germany head coach Joachim Loew said that he supported the players after the squad word black t-shirts with 'Human Rights’ written over it – aimed at 2022 World Cup host Qatar. Germany went on to defeat Iceland 3-0 but their stand got the footballing world talking.&nbsp;

"It was a sign that we stand up for all human rights in the world, no matter where," said Loew after the qualifier in Duisburg.&nbsp;

FIFA prohibits political statements during matches but the governing body told AFP's SID that they will not sanction the German national team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-players-in-human-rights-message-ahead-of-world-cup-qualifier-373322" hreflang="en">Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier</a>

"FIFA believes in freedom of expression and in the power of football to drive positive change," it said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Norway national team also staged a similar protest connected to human rights issues in Qatar.&nbsp;And FIFA responded by saying it will not&nbsp;penalise&nbsp;Norway for the protest.&nbsp;

Notably, Human rights groups have been critical of Qatar over its treatment of migrant workers. However, Qatar disputes the claims.&nbsp;

The German government in Berlin welcomed the national team's protest in "making it clear once again what values they stand for," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-england-italy-win-but-spain-held-in-world-cup-qualifying-373210" hreflang="en">Germany, England, Italy win but Spain held in World Cup qualifying</a>

"That's something good because the national team" represents Germany, and so "it's good if it professes the values of our liberal democracy," Seibert added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dagmar Freitag, chair of the German parliament's sports committee, hinted towards double standards in the football team's protest.&nbsp;

Freitag welcomed the stance but pointed out that it put the Bayern Munich players involved "in a difficult situation" as Qatar's national airline sponsors the club world champions.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)&nbsp;

FIFA on Friday said it will not sanction the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday.

FIFA on Friday said it will not sanction the German national team for its T-shirt protest in support to human rights before the World Cup qualifier match against Iceland on Thursday. Germany head coach Joachim Loew said that he supported the players after the squad word black t-shirts with 'Human Rights’ written over it – aimed at 2022 World Cup host Qatar. Germany went on to defeat Iceland 3-0 but their stand got the footballing world talking. "It was a sign that we stand up for all human rights in the world, no matter where," said Loew after the qualifier in Duisburg. FIFA prohibits political statements during matches but the governing body told AFP's SID that they will not sanction the German national team. ALSO READ: Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier "FIFA believes in freedom of expression and in the power of football to drive positive change," it said in a statement on Friday. Earlier, Norway national team also staged a similar protest connected to human rights issues in Qatar. And FIFA responded by saying it will not penalise Norway for the protest. Notably, Human rights groups have been critical of Qatar over its treatment of migrant workers. However, Qatar disputes the claims. The German government in Berlin welcomed the national team's protest in "making it clear once again what values they stand for," said Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert on Friday. ALSO READ: Germany, England, Italy win but Spain held in World Cup qualifying "That's something good because the national team" represents Germany, and so "it's good if it professes the values of our liberal democracy," Seibert added. Dagmar Freitag, chair of the German parliament's sports committee, hinted towards double standards in the football team's protest. Freitag welcomed the stance but pointed out that it put the Bayern Munich players involved "in a difficult situation" as Qatar's national airline sponsors the club world champions. (With AFP inputs)

No FIFA punishment for Germany national team despite 'Human Rights' protest

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it.... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," Leon Goretzka, who scored the opening goal in a 3-0 win, told RTL.

"We wrote the letters ourselves. We have a large reach - and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for. That was clear."

Joachim Loew's German team echoed a similar demonstration from Norway, who on Wednesday donned T-shirts with the message 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals.

The gesture, before Norway's World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar, came after several Norwegian clubs spoke out in favour of a boycott of the 2022 finals.

UK daily newspaper The Guardian recently claimed that more than 6,500 workers have died on stadium construction sites since the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010.

In Germany, a poll by magazine Spiegel says two thirds of those asked were in favour of&nbsp;boycotting Qatar 2022.

A leading German supporters group ProFans has called on the German FA to withdraw the national team from the 2022 World Cup finals.

The German Football Association (DFB) has so far only said it will continue voicing concerns.

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar.

Germany's national team lined up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights' before their World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Thursday, less than two years before the finals are controversially staged in Qatar. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it.... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," Leon Goretzka, who scored the opening goal in a 3-0 win, told RTL. "We wrote the letters ourselves. We have a large reach - and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for. That was clear." Joachim Loew's German team echoed a similar demonstration from Norway, who on Wednesday donned T-shirts with the message 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals. The gesture, before Norway's World Cup qualifier against Gibraltar, came after several Norwegian clubs spoke out in favour of a boycott of the 2022 finals. UK daily newspaper The Guardian recently claimed that more than 6,500 workers have died on stadium construction sites since the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010. In Germany, a poll by magazine Spiegel says two thirds of those asked were in favour of boycotting Qatar 2022. A leading German supporters group ProFans has called on the German FA to withdraw the national team from the 2022 World Cup finals. The German Football Association (DFB) has so far only said it will continue voicing concerns.

Germany players in 'Human Rights' message ahead of World Cup qualifier

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday. India conceded a goal in the 42nd minute with Chinglensana Singh's clearance crossing the goal-line after hitting goalkeeper Amrinder Singh who started the match instead of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

Manvir Singh scored the equaliser in the 55th minute to help India pull off a rare draw against Oman in the first international outing after the COVID-19 lockdown. India head coach Igor Stimac gave debuts to as many as 10 players. He had said before the match that he would give chances to a maximum number of players for them to gain the experience of playing in big matches.

The first half was all about Oman attacking in waves with India not getting a single shot on target. Oman, who have won both the two-legged matches of the 2022 World Cup qualifying against India, played a high defensive line with more men on the attack. India were content defending their citadel with more players in their own half and just one man upfront most of the time. The Indians lost possession too easily on most occasions as Oman did not let them hold on to the ball for long.

Oman squandered a penalty in the 27th minute after Rowlin Borges committed a foul on Abdul Aziz Al Gheilani inside the box. Aziz himself took the spot-kick but shot straight to Amarinder Singh. But Oman were not to be denied a goal in the first half. Al Aghbari got the ball on the left-wing and sent a low cross on the face of the goal. Amrinder could not collect the ball cleanly and it hit Chinglensana Singh and went past the goal line.

Stimac made two changes at the start of the second session with Lalengmawia and Raynier Fernandes replacing Jeakson Singh and Rowllin Borges.

The Indians dished out a much-improved show in the second half, holding the ball a lot more than the first 45 minutes and playing a more attacking game. India equalised five minutes before the hour mark. Bipin Singh sent in a delicious cross from the right flank which was headed home by Manvir.

Oman, ranked 81st as compared to India's 104th in the FIFA charts, then pressed hard for the winning goal but Amrinder was impressive behind the bar as he made two fine saves in the 63rd and 65th minutes. India play their second international friendly against the UAE here on Monday.

The friendlies are a part of preparations for the joint qualifying round matches of the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup to be played in June.

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday.

The Indian football team made a fine comeback in the second half to hold fancied Oman 1-1 in its first international match in more than a year though the Gulf side dominated the friendly here on Thursday. India conceded a goal in the 42nd minute with Chinglensana Singh's clearance crossing the goal-line after hitting goalkeeper Amrinder Singh who started the match instead of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Manvir Singh scored the equaliser in the 55th minute to help India pull off a rare draw against Oman in the first international outing after the COVID-19 lockdown. India head coach Igor Stimac gave debuts to as many as 10 players. He had said before the match that he would give chances to a maximum number of players for them to gain the experience of playing in big matches. The first half was all about Oman attacking in waves with India not getting a single shot on target. Oman, who have won both the two-legged matches of the 2022 World Cup qualifying against India, played a high defensive line with more men on the attack. India were content defending their citadel with more players in their own half and just one man upfront most of the time. The Indians lost possession too easily on most occasions as Oman did not let them hold on to the ball for long. Oman squandered a penalty in the 27th minute after Rowlin Borges committed a foul on Abdul Aziz Al Gheilani inside the box. Aziz himself took the spot-kick but shot straight to Amarinder Singh. But Oman were not to be denied a goal in the first half. Al Aghbari got the ball on the left-wing and sent a low cross on the face of the goal. Amrinder could not collect the ball cleanly and it hit Chinglensana Singh and went past the goal line. Stimac made two changes at the start of the second session with Lalengmawia and Raynier Fernandes replacing Jeakson Singh and Rowllin Borges. The Indians dished out a much-improved show in the second half, holding the ball a lot more than the first 45 minutes and playing a more attacking game. India equalised five minutes before the hour mark. Bipin Singh sent in a delicious cross from the right flank which was headed home by Manvir. Oman, ranked 81st as compared to India's 104th in the FIFA charts, then pressed hard for the winning goal but Amrinder was impressive behind the bar as he made two fine saves in the 63rd and 65th minutes. India play their second international friendly against the UAE here on Monday. The friendlies are a part of preparations for the joint qualifying round matches of the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup to be played in June.

India draw 1-1 against Oman as Blue Tigers play a record 10 debutants

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022.&nbsp;

Going back to the old routine, the Premier League has kept the start date flexible with the option of a Friday night match on August 13. However, every&nbsp;match&nbsp;in the final round of fixtures will start on May 22, 2022.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-joins-fortnite-as-video-game-universe-expands-373037" hreflang="en">Neymar joins 'Fortnite' as video game universe expands</a>

Following a hectic 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic - which witnessed the start of the ongoing season pushed back until September 2020 – the confirmed dates suggest a return to the traditional August-May season schedule.&nbsp;

An earlier start for Premier League 2021-22 season was discussed but clubs were against the proposal due to the short gap between the upcoming Euro 2020 – the final of which will take place on July 11, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/netherlands-beaten-by-turkey-france-held-by-ukraine-in-world-cup-qualifiers-373032" hreflang="en">Netherlands beaten by Turkey, France held by Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers</a>

Premier League players and managers have complained about the hectic schedule and how players don't get enough time to recover in between matches. The year 2021 was supposed to be hectic due to the less pre-season preparation and gaps between matches that were postponed due to the virus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022.

The dates for the Premier League 2021-22 season have been revealed. The new season of the English top-flight will commence on August 12, 2021, with the final game-week scheduled to be played on May 22, 2022. Going back to the old routine, the Premier League has kept the start date flexible with the option of a Friday night match on August 13. However, every match in the final round of fixtures will start on May 22, 2022. ALSO READ: Neymar joins 'Fortnite' as video game universe expands Following a hectic 2020-21 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic - which witnessed the start of the ongoing season pushed back until September 2020 – the confirmed dates suggest a return to the traditional August-May season schedule. An earlier start for Premier League 2021-22 season was discussed but clubs were against the proposal due to the short gap between the upcoming Euro 2020 – the final of which will take place on July 11, 2021. ALSO READ: Netherlands beaten by Turkey, France held by Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers Premier League players and managers have complained about the hectic schedule and how players don't get enough time to recover in between matches. The year 2021 was supposed to be hectic due to the less pre-season preparation and gaps between matches that were postponed due to the virus.

Premier League reveals start date for 2021-22 season

Gamers are used to taking control of Neymar in virtual football pitches, but the Brazilian star has found a new field to run wild on: the shoot'em up mega-hit "Fortnite".

Neymar's recruitment is part of a strategy by Epic Games to expand the universe of "Fortnite" beyond its kill-or-be-killed "Battle Royale" by wheeling in the sports, music and film worlds.

The footballer follows in the footsteps of US rapper Travis Scott, whose avatar performed five virtual concerts on "Fortnite" last year seen by 12 million players.

The game, which has 350 million users (more than the US population), has also hosted a "Short Nite" film festival and a "Party Royale" -- a virtual party with famous DJs.

"In a time like now, where getting together in person is more challenging, we think it's incredibly important to have these social connected experiences virtually," Nate Nanzer, head of global partnerships at Epic Games, told AFP.

"We definitely think of Fortnite as a platform for social connected experiences and not just the game."

Users have been able to put the kits of football teams such as Manchester City and Juventus on their avatars since the start of the year, but Neymar is the first athlete with an unlockable "player skin".

Nanzer said Neymar's selection made sense because the footballer is a fan of the game -- he streams himself playing "Fortnite" live on Twitch -- and has nearly 150 million Instagram followers.

<h2>- Meet me in the 'metaverse' -</h2>

"Fortnite" is not the only video game looking to broaden the format's horizons.

"Roblox", an online platform that lets users build their own games, has been a massive hit during the pandemic, with birthday parties, social get-togethers and even company meetings held there.

"It's the metaverse," said Julien Pillot, a researcher at leading French business school INSEEC.

The "metaverse", a term coined by sci-fi writer Neal Stephenson, refers to a shared online world in which users can more freely interact, hang out, spend money, consume media and potentially even work jobs.&nbsp;

Charles-Louis Planade, a video game expert with Midcap Partners, said the "Holy Grail" of creating a metaverse was not new for gaming, citing the massive multiplayer game "World of Warcraft" which struck a chord in the 2000s.

"What is new is that these video games have almost became a 'hub', where playing is one of the activities offered -- but not the only one," Planade said.&nbsp;

<h2>- The numbers game -</h2>

The metaverse dream also expands the ways that such games can rake in profits -- while "Fortnite" and "Roblox" are free, users can spend real money on virtual goods and services within the games.

It has also created new ways to advertise to an overwhelmingly young audience -- most of Roblox's 150 million monthly users are under 16.

Brands including Nike and Disney have already used the platforms, with the latter promoting the last Star Wars movie on "Roblox" in 2019.

Warner Brothers and DC meanwhile created a Wonder Woman game on Roblox to promote the superhero's last film, with US rapper Lil Nas X performing there.

And "Roblox" made its Wall Street debut earlier this month, listing on the New York Stock Exchange for a valuation of $46 billion -- more than four times that of video game giant Ubisoft.

Should traditional social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram be worried?

Researcher Pillot said that the game-playing element still excluded some audiences.

"For mass advertising contracts, you will never beat a Facebook (2.8 billion users) that caters for everyone, young and old. You cannot compete on the same audience level," he said.

But analyst Planade said "we're heading straight in that direction."

"Tomorrow everyone will be playing video games."

Gamers are used to taking control of Neymar in virtual football pitches, but the Brazilian star has found a new field to run wild on: the shoot'em up mega-hit "Fortnite".

Gamers are used to taking control of Neymar in virtual football pitches, but the Brazilian star has found a new field to run wild on: the shoot'em up mega-hit "Fortnite". Neymar's recruitment is part of a strategy by Epic Games to expand the universe of "Fortnite" beyond its kill-or-be-killed "Battle Royale" by wheeling in the sports, music and film worlds. The footballer follows in the footsteps of US rapper Travis Scott, whose avatar performed five virtual concerts on "Fortnite" last year seen by 12 million players. The game, which has 350 million users (more than the US population), has also hosted a "Short Nite" film festival and a "Party Royale" -- a virtual party with famous DJs. "In a time like now, where getting together in person is more challenging, we think it's incredibly important to have these social connected experiences virtually," Nate Nanzer, head of global partnerships at Epic Games, told AFP. "We definitely think of Fortnite as a platform for social connected experiences and not just the game." Users have been able to put the kits of football teams such as Manchester City and Juventus on their avatars since the start of the year, but Neymar is the first athlete with an unlockable "player skin". Nanzer said Neymar's selection made sense because the footballer is a fan of the game -- he streams himself playing "Fortnite" live on Twitch -- and has nearly 150 million Instagram followers. - Meet me in the 'metaverse' - "Fortnite" is not the only video game looking to broaden the format's horizons. "Roblox", an online platform that lets users build their own games, has been a massive hit during the pandemic, with birthday parties, social get-togethers and even company meetings held there. "It's the metaverse," said Julien Pillot, a researcher at leading French business school INSEEC. The "metaverse", a term coined by sci-fi writer Neal Stephenson, refers to a shared online world in which users can more freely interact, hang out, spend money, consume media and potentially even work jobs. Charles-Louis Planade, a video game expert with Midcap Partners, said the "Holy Grail" of creating a metaverse was not new for gaming, citing the massive multiplayer game "World of Warcraft" which struck a chord in the 2000s. "What is new is that these video games have almost became a 'hub', where playing is one of the activities offered -- but not the only one," Planade said. - The numbers game - The metaverse dream also expands the ways that such games can rake in profits -- while "Fortnite" and "Roblox" are free, users can spend real money on virtual goods and services within the games. It has also created new ways to advertise to an overwhelmingly young audience -- most of Roblox's 150 million monthly users are under 16. Brands including Nike and Disney have already used the platforms, with the latter promoting the last Star Wars movie on "Roblox" in 2019. Warner Brothers and DC meanwhile created a Wonder Woman game on Roblox to promote the superhero's last film, with US rapper Lil Nas X performing there. And "Roblox" made its Wall Street debut earlier this month, listing on the New York Stock Exchange for a valuation of $46 billion -- more than four times that of video game giant Ubisoft. Should traditional social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram be worried? Researcher Pillot said that the game-playing element still excluded some audiences. "For mass advertising contracts, you will never beat a Facebook (2.8 billion users) that caters for everyone, young and old. You cannot compete on the same audience level," he said. But analyst Planade said "we're heading straight in that direction." "Tomorrow everyone will be playing video games."

Neymar joins 'Fortnite' as video game universe expands

The Netherlands slumped to a dramatic 4-2 defeat by Turkey in their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, while reigning champions France were held by Ukraine despite a brilliant Antoine Griezmann goal and Belgium came from behind to beat Wales.

European champions Portugal battled to a 1-0 victory over Azerbaijan, but 2018 World Cup runners-up Croatia lost 1-0 in Slovenia as they started their bid to reach the finals in Qatar.

In Istanbul, Turkey led 3-0 shortly after half-time through two Burak Yilmaz goals and a Hakan Calhanoglu strike, but substitutes Davy Klaassen and Luuk de Jong gave Frank de Boer's Dutchmen hope.

Yilmaz's wonderful free-kick sealed him a hat-trick and Turkey a crucial win, though, in a match between the two favourites to qualify from Group G.

"Very disappointing result, and also the way that result came about," De Boer told NOS TV.

The defeat was a dreadful start to the campaign for the Netherlands, who failed to qualify for either Euro 2016 or the 2018 World Cup, but are one of the fancied sides ahead of the delayed Euro 2020 finals this year.

France kicked off their title defence with a 1-1 draw against Ukraine at the Stade de France.

Griezmann curled a fine finish from outside the box into the top corner in the 19th minute to draw level with David Trezeguet in fourth place on France's all-time goalscoring list, with 34.

But Presnel Kimpembe put through his own net before the hour mark to draw Ukraine level.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender had a late chance to make amends, but headed too close to away goalkeeper Georgiy Bushchan.

"We need more accuracy and movement against these opponents," France coach Didier Deschamps told TF1. "Qualifying is a long haul and not a long, quiet river, it never has been."

The other game in Group D saw Finland and Bosnia and Herzegovina draw 2-2, with Teemu Pukki netting twice for the Finns in Helsinki.

"It left a bad taste in my mouth," said Pukki. "I'm a bit gutted we couldn't get the three points."

<h2>- Belgium see off Wales -</h2>

Belgium, the world's number-one-ranked side, fell behind early against Wales but fought back to outclass their opponents 3-1.

Harry Wilson scored an excellent 10th-minute opener for Wales in Leuven, but Kevin De Bruyne and Thorgan Hazard netted in the space of six minutes to put the hosts ahead before the half-hour mark.

Belgium's record goalscorer Romelu Lukaku wrapped up the points with a penalty 17 minutes from time, gaining the Red Devils a measure of revenge for their Euro 2016 quarter-final loss to Wales.

"It was important to start with a victory at home," said winger Thorgan Hazard. "It's always important to start qualifying well. We were a little scared during the first 15 minutes."

Roberto Martinez's men sit second in the early Group E table behind the Czech Republic, who thrashed Estonia 6-2 on neutral ground in Poland, with West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek scoring a hat-trick.

Portugal, who defend the title at Euro 2020 later this year, struggled in their Group A opener against Azerbaijan in Turin.

But Maksim Medvedev's own goal nine minutes before half-time was enough, despite Cristiano Ronaldo, on 102 international goals, failing to close the gap to Iranian Ali Daei's all-time record of 109.

"The game was under control. We needed to improve the finishing, but we ended up winning -- with an own goal, but maybe we deserved to have scored more," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos, after his 50th win in charge from 80 games.

Portugal's group rivals Serbia battled back to beat the Republic of Ireland 3-2, as Aleksandar Mitrovic came off the bench to grab a second-half double.

<h2>- 'Human rights, on and off pitch' -</h2>

Norway stars Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Odegaard donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals.

Haaland, national captain Odegaard, as well as teammates, wore the shirts when the national anthems were played before their 3-0 success in Gibraltar.

The Scandinavians sit ahead of Turkey in Group G.

Elsewhere, Russia, 2018 quarter-finalists on home soil, stuttered to a 3-1 win in Malta.

Also in Group H, Croatia were beaten by Sandi Lovric's early goal for Slovenia.

The Netherlands slumped to a dramatic 4-2 defeat by Turkey in their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, while reigning champions France were held by Ukraine despite a brilliant Antoine Griezmann goal and Belgium came from behind to beat Wales.

The Netherlands slumped to a dramatic 4-2 defeat by Turkey in their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, while reigning champions France were held by Ukraine despite a brilliant Antoine Griezmann goal and Belgium came from behind to beat Wales. European champions Portugal battled to a 1-0 victory over Azerbaijan, but 2018 World Cup runners-up Croatia lost 1-0 in Slovenia as they started their bid to reach the finals in Qatar. In Istanbul, Turkey led 3-0 shortly after half-time through two Burak Yilmaz goals and a Hakan Calhanoglu strike, but substitutes Davy Klaassen and Luuk de Jong gave Frank de Boer's Dutchmen hope. Yilmaz's wonderful free-kick sealed him a hat-trick and Turkey a crucial win, though, in a match between the two favourites to qualify from Group G. "Very disappointing result, and also the way that result came about," De Boer told NOS TV. The defeat was a dreadful start to the campaign for the Netherlands, who failed to qualify for either Euro 2016 or the 2018 World Cup, but are one of the fancied sides ahead of the delayed Euro 2020 finals this year. France kicked off their title defence with a 1-1 draw against Ukraine at the Stade de France. Griezmann curled a fine finish from outside the box into the top corner in the 19th minute to draw level with David Trezeguet in fourth place on France's all-time goalscoring list, with 34. But Presnel Kimpembe put through his own net before the hour mark to draw Ukraine level. The Paris Saint-Germain defender had a late chance to make amends, but headed too close to away goalkeeper Georgiy Bushchan. "We need more accuracy and movement against these opponents," France coach Didier Deschamps told TF1. "Qualifying is a long haul and not a long, quiet river, it never has been." The other game in Group D saw Finland and Bosnia and Herzegovina draw 2-2, with Teemu Pukki netting twice for the Finns in Helsinki. "It left a bad taste in my mouth," said Pukki. "I'm a bit gutted we couldn't get the three points." - Belgium see off Wales - Belgium, the world's number-one-ranked side, fell behind early against Wales but fought back to outclass their opponents 3-1. Harry Wilson scored an excellent 10th-minute opener for Wales in Leuven, but Kevin De Bruyne and Thorgan Hazard netted in the space of six minutes to put the hosts ahead before the half-hour mark. Belgium's record goalscorer Romelu Lukaku wrapped up the points with a penalty 17 minutes from time, gaining the Red Devils a measure of revenge for their Euro 2016 quarter-final loss to Wales. "It was important to start with a victory at home," said winger Thorgan Hazard. "It's always important to start qualifying well. We were a little scared during the first 15 minutes." Roberto Martinez's men sit second in the early Group E table behind the Czech Republic, who thrashed Estonia 6-2 on neutral ground in Poland, with West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek scoring a hat-trick. Portugal, who defend the title at Euro 2020 later this year, struggled in their Group A opener against Azerbaijan in Turin. But Maksim Medvedev's own goal nine minutes before half-time was enough, despite Cristiano Ronaldo, on 102 international goals, failing to close the gap to Iranian Ali Daei's all-time record of 109. "The game was under control. We needed to improve the finishing, but we ended up winning -- with an own goal, but maybe we deserved to have scored more," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos, after his 50th win in charge from 80 games. Portugal's group rivals Serbia battled back to beat the Republic of Ireland 3-2, as Aleksandar Mitrovic came off the bench to grab a second-half double. - 'Human rights, on and off pitch' - Norway stars Erling Braut Haaland and Martin Odegaard donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' in support of migrant workers building World Cup venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals. Haaland, national captain Odegaard, as well as teammates, wore the shirts when the national anthems were played before their 3-0 success in Gibraltar. The Scandinavians sit ahead of Turkey in Group G. Elsewhere, Russia, 2018 quarter-finalists on home soil, stuttered to a 3-1 win in Malta. Also in Group H, Croatia were beaten by Sandi Lovric's early goal for Slovenia.

Netherlands beaten by Turkey, France held by Ukraine in World Cup qualifiers

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses.

Former FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke also had his existing suspension extended by the same amount.

The new bans will only come into force when the current bans on Blatter and Valcke for corruption, which last till October this year and October 2025, end.

FIFA's Ethics Committee said it had also fined each man one million Swiss francs.

Blatter, who is 85, received 23 million Swiss francs ($24.6 million, 20.7 million euros) in "extraordinary bonuses" linked to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as well as the Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil that preceded it, the Ethics Committee said in a summary of its decision.

Valcke, the 60-year-old Frenchman who was Blatter's right-hand man during his 17-year reign at the head of football's world governing body, received 30 million Swiss francs over the same period, the committee said.

FIFA said Blatter and Valcke had violated the Code of Ethics by "offering and accepting gifts or other benefits" and through "abuse of position".

It said in a statement: "The investigations into Messrs Blatter and Valcke covered various charges, in particular concerning bonus payments in relation to FIFA competitions that were paid to top FIFA management officials, various amendments and extensions of employment contracts, as well as reimbursement by FIFA of private legal costs in the case of Mr Valcke."

Blatter was forced to stand down as FIFA president in 2015 and was originally banned by FIFA for eight years, later reduced to six, over ethics breaches when he was found to have authorised a two-million-euro "disloyal payment" to former UEFA president Michel Platini.

Valcke was initially banned for 12 years but it was reduced to 10 years on appeal.

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses.

FIFA banned its former president Sepp Blatter until 2028 on Wednesday after handing him a new suspension of six years and eight months for receiving huge bonuses. Former FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke also had his existing suspension extended by the same amount. The new bans will only come into force when the current bans on Blatter and Valcke for corruption, which last till October this year and October 2025, end. FIFA's Ethics Committee said it had also fined each man one million Swiss francs. Blatter, who is 85, received 23 million Swiss francs ($24.6 million, 20.7 million euros) in "extraordinary bonuses" linked to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil as well as the Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil that preceded it, the Ethics Committee said in a summary of its decision. Valcke, the 60-year-old Frenchman who was Blatter's right-hand man during his 17-year reign at the head of football's world governing body, received 30 million Swiss francs over the same period, the committee said. FIFA said Blatter and Valcke had violated the Code of Ethics by "offering and accepting gifts or other benefits" and through "abuse of position". It said in a statement: "The investigations into Messrs Blatter and Valcke covered various charges, in particular concerning bonus payments in relation to FIFA competitions that were paid to top FIFA management officials, various amendments and extensions of employment contracts, as well as reimbursement by FIFA of private legal costs in the case of Mr Valcke." Blatter was forced to stand down as FIFA president in 2015 and was originally banned by FIFA for eight years, later reduced to six, over ethics breaches when he was found to have authorised a two-million-euro "disloyal payment" to former UEFA president Michel Platini. Valcke was initially banned for 12 years but it was reduced to 10 years on appeal.

FIFA extends ban on Blatter until 2028

Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus.

European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions.

Ronaldo has been under fire in Italy after Juve's Champions League last-16 exit to Porto and the weekend defeat by Benevento which left them 10 points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan.

Describing the 36-year-old Ronaldo as a "very good friend", Santos said he found the player to be in high spirits.

"We've always been close to each other, very good friends, we don't really have a coach-player relationship," the 66-year-old Santos told a press conference.

"(Ronaldo) certainly represents great quality, he always shows great happiness and joy when he's with the team."

Ronaldo is bidding to break Ali Daei's all-time men's international goalscoring record, with the former Real Madrid attacker only seven goals short of the Iranian's mark of 109.

"He's an important player, probably the best in the world," added Santos. "I don't think he has any problem in terms of mentality at the moment."

Portugal have qualified for the World Cup finals seven times, reaching the semi-finals in 1966 and 2006.

Alongside Ronaldo, they boast an array of attacking talent, including Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, Atletico Madrid youngster Joao Felix and Liverpool's Diogo Jota.

And after winning their first major title at Euro 2016, Santos believes the World Cup "is not really a dream, but something that can definitely come true".

"We know Ronaldo always wants to conquer new trophies, but all the players want to win the World Cup," he said.

"We can fight to become the world champions."

Despite fifth-ranked Portugal being favourites against Azerbaijan, ranked 108th, Santos warned: "We mustn't underestimate anyone. We know Azerbaijan can be quite dangerous on the counter-attack."

Although defender Pepe is out after suffering an injury while playing for club side Porto, Ruben Dias believes the veteran's absence "will change nothing".

"We have a very clear playing idea. We can't depend on just one single player. We have to adapt, there will be other players," said the Manchester City defender.

"We want Portugal to be recognised as a truly important team.

"What we're doing here is fighting for the World Cup.

"We have great ambitions, we want to win. Cristiano is obviously fundamental for the national team.

"We're trying to integrate the new players with Cristiano to create a new team."

The European champions also travel to Serbia on Saturday and Luxembourg three days later.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus. European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions.

Portugal coach Fernando Santos insisted on Tuesday that Cristiano Ronaldo's morale has been unaffected by recent disappointments with Juventus. European champions Portugal play their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan at the Juventus Stadium in Turin on Wednesday, due to coronavirus travel restrictions. Ronaldo has been under fire in Italy after Juve's Champions League last-16 exit to Porto and the weekend defeat by Benevento which left them 10 points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan. Describing the 36-year-old Ronaldo as a "very good friend", Santos said he found the player to be in high spirits. "We've always been close to each other, very good friends, we don't really have a coach-player relationship," the 66-year-old Santos told a press conference. "(Ronaldo) certainly represents great quality, he always shows great happiness and joy when he's with the team." Ronaldo is bidding to break Ali Daei's all-time men's international goalscoring record, with the former Real Madrid attacker only seven goals short of the Iranian's mark of 109. "He's an important player, probably the best in the world," added Santos. "I don't think he has any problem in terms of mentality at the moment." Portugal have qualified for the World Cup finals seven times, reaching the semi-finals in 1966 and 2006. Alongside Ronaldo, they boast an array of attacking talent, including Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, Atletico Madrid youngster Joao Felix and Liverpool's Diogo Jota. And after winning their first major title at Euro 2016, Santos believes the World Cup "is not really a dream, but something that can definitely come true". "We know Ronaldo always wants to conquer new trophies, but all the players want to win the World Cup," he said. "We can fight to become the world champions." Despite fifth-ranked Portugal being favourites against Azerbaijan, ranked 108th, Santos warned: "We mustn't underestimate anyone. We know Azerbaijan can be quite dangerous on the counter-attack." Although defender Pepe is out after suffering an injury while playing for club side Porto, Ruben Dias believes the veteran's absence "will change nothing". "We have a very clear playing idea. We can't depend on just one single player. We have to adapt, there will be other players," said the Manchester City defender. "We want Portugal to be recognised as a truly important team. "What we're doing here is fighting for the World Cup. "We have great ambitions, we want to win. Cristiano is obviously fundamental for the national team. "We're trying to integrate the new players with Cristiano to create a new team." The European champions also travel to Serbia on Saturday and Luxembourg three days later.

Ronaldo's spirits high despite Juve setbacks, says Portugal's Santos

Captain Manuel Neuer wants Germany to prove themselves in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but their plans were dealt a blow Tuesday as Toni Kroos withdrew with injury.

Their opening qualifier against Iceland in Duisburg on Thursday is Germany's first international since their humiliating 6-0 thrashing by Spain last November.

After nearly 15 years as coach, Loew will step down after the delayed Euro 2020 from June 11-July 11 and has "challenged" his team to find form.

Germany also face Romania away on Sunday, then North Macedonia again in Duisburg three days later.

"The national coach is right. We're all challenged -- we have big plans," said Neuer in a press conference on Tuesday.

"We want to get into the swing of things. We can't make any more mistakes."

However, Germany will be without Real Madrid star Kroos, who has a groin injury.

"I'm reluctant to be without him," Loew said in a statement, but the 31-year-old is not an option for the three qualifiers.

However, there was some good news as Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich joined the squad after recovering from a cold.

Neuer says Germany have extra motivation for the Euro finals, where they face World Cup winners France, reigning champions Portugal and Hungary in their group.

"We all have ambitious goals and want to crown (Loew's) successful era with a great finish," said Neuer.

"(Loew) is very motivated and ambitious. He wants it at all costs. He wants to quit as successfully as possible."

Loew has called up five Premier League players after Germany relaxed some of its Covid-19 travel restrictions.

However, Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, Chelsea trio Kai Havertz, Timo Werner and Antonio Ruediger plus Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno are in a 'working quarantine' within the Germany camp.

The five are kept separate apart from training, team meetings and matches.

"We are not in contact with the UK players, who have separate tables compared to the players who live in mainland Europe," said Neuer.

Borussia Moenchengladbach midfielder Florian Neuhaus said the squad are just happy to be able to play, with the rest of Germany still in lockdown.

"There are worse things than being in a bubble with the national team for 10 days," said the 24-year-old.

"In a certain way it has become everyday life in Germany."

Captain Manuel Neuer wants Germany to prove themselves in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but their plans were dealt a blow Tuesday as Toni Kroos withdrew with injury.

Captain Manuel Neuer wants Germany to prove themselves in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but their plans were dealt a blow Tuesday as Toni Kroos withdrew with injury. Their opening qualifier against Iceland in Duisburg on Thursday is Germany's first international since their humiliating 6-0 thrashing by Spain last November. After nearly 15 years as coach, Loew will step down after the delayed Euro 2020 from June 11-July 11 and has "challenged" his team to find form. Germany also face Romania away on Sunday, then North Macedonia again in Duisburg three days later. "The national coach is right. We're all challenged -- we have big plans," said Neuer in a press conference on Tuesday. "We want to get into the swing of things. We can't make any more mistakes." However, Germany will be without Real Madrid star Kroos, who has a groin injury. "I'm reluctant to be without him," Loew said in a statement, but the 31-year-old is not an option for the three qualifiers. However, there was some good news as Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich joined the squad after recovering from a cold. Neuer says Germany have extra motivation for the Euro finals, where they face World Cup winners France, reigning champions Portugal and Hungary in their group. "We all have ambitious goals and want to crown (Loew's) successful era with a great finish," said Neuer. "(Loew) is very motivated and ambitious. He wants it at all costs. He wants to quit as successfully as possible." Loew has called up five Premier League players after Germany relaxed some of its Covid-19 travel restrictions. However, Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, Chelsea trio Kai Havertz, Timo Werner and Antonio Ruediger plus Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno are in a 'working quarantine' within the Germany camp. The five are kept separate apart from training, team meetings and matches. "We are not in contact with the UK players, who have separate tables compared to the players who live in mainland Europe," said Neuer. Borussia Moenchengladbach midfielder Florian Neuhaus said the squad are just happy to be able to play, with the rest of Germany still in lockdown. "There are worse things than being in a bubble with the national team for 10 days," said the 24-year-old. "In a certain way it has become everyday life in Germany."

Neuer challenges Germany to throw down marker, Kroos drops out

Gareth Bale said Tuesday that he plans to resume his Real Madrid career once his loan at Tottenham expires at the end of this season.

Wales forward Bale returned for a second spell with Tottenham in September after being frozen out by Real manager Zinedine Zidane.

He has endured a difficult time back in the Premier League, plagued by fitness issues, inconsistent form and a dispute with Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho over his readiness for an FA Cup tie at Everton.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old's Madrid contract runs until the end of the 2021-22 season and he revealed he will head back to Spain after the delayed Euro 2020 this summer.

"There's no distraction for me," Bale told a press conference. "I think the main reason I came to Spurs this year was to play football first and foremost.

"Going into the Euros I wanted to be match-fit. The original plan was to do a season at Spurs and after the Euros still have a year left at Real Madrid.

"My plan is to go back, that's as far I have planned."

Mourinho said earlier this month that Bale's future beyond the end of the season was a matter for Real.

Finally showing signs of his best form, Bale -- a four-time Champions League winner with Real - recently scored six goals in six games.

But Bale found himself back on the bench for Tottenham's shock Europa League exit at Dinamo Zagreb last Thursday and their Premier League win against Aston Villa on Sunday.

His spell among the substitutes has at least kept Bale fit for Wales' forthcoming matches.

Wales head to Belgium for their opening World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, host Mexico in a friendly on Saturday and take on the Czech Republic in their second qualifier next Tuesday.

With a busy international schedule looming, Bale is eager to put his club issues to one side for now.

"I'm feeling fresh and ready to go. I always think when things aren't going too well at a club, it's nice to get away, especially mentally, get away from the club environment," he said.

"Definitely it can be a benefit. We focus on these games for Wales, which are very important for us.

"We forget club life and concentrate on this."

Gareth Bale said Tuesday that he plans to resume his Real Madrid career once his loan at Tottenham expires at the end of this season. Wales forward Bale returned for a second spell with Tottenham in September after being frozen out by Real manager Zinedine Zidane.

Gareth Bale said Tuesday that he plans to resume his Real Madrid career once his loan at Tottenham expires at the end of this season. Wales forward Bale returned for a second spell with Tottenham in September after being frozen out by Real manager Zinedine Zidane. He has endured a difficult time back in the Premier League, plagued by fitness issues, inconsistent form and a dispute with Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho over his readiness for an FA Cup tie at Everton. The 31-year-old's Madrid contract runs until the end of the 2021-22 season and he revealed he will head back to Spain after the delayed Euro 2020 this summer. "There's no distraction for me," Bale told a press conference. "I think the main reason I came to Spurs this year was to play football first and foremost. "Going into the Euros I wanted to be match-fit. The original plan was to do a season at Spurs and after the Euros still have a year left at Real Madrid. "My plan is to go back, that's as far I have planned." Mourinho said earlier this month that Bale's future beyond the end of the season was a matter for Real. Finally showing signs of his best form, Bale -- a four-time Champions League winner with Real - recently scored six goals in six games. But Bale found himself back on the bench for Tottenham's shock Europa League exit at Dinamo Zagreb last Thursday and their Premier League win against Aston Villa on Sunday. His spell among the substitutes has at least kept Bale fit for Wales' forthcoming matches. Wales head to Belgium for their opening World Cup qualifier on Wednesday, host Mexico in a friendly on Saturday and take on the Czech Republic in their second qualifier next Tuesday. With a busy international schedule looming, Bale is eager to put his club issues to one side for now. "I'm feeling fresh and ready to go. I always think when things aren't going too well at a club, it's nice to get away, especially mentally, get away from the club environment," he said. "Definitely it can be a benefit. We focus on these games for Wales, which are very important for us. "We forget club life and concentrate on this."

Bale expects Real return after Spurs loan

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory.

Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place.

The injury-hit Reds are 25 points behind leaders Manchester City and five points adrift of fourth placed Chelsea.

Qualifying for next season's Champions League via a top four finish will be tricky but not impossible.

Liverpool have shown signs of getting back on track after beating Leipzig in the Champions League last 16 second leg and Wolves in the Premier League.

With a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming in April, Egypt forward Salah wants his Liverpool team-mates to target European success.

"I'm happy about our last results, so hopefully we can just keep winning," Salah told Liverpool's website.

"It's tough for all of us because of the situation we have been through and our position in the Premier League, but I believe it's going to be better.

"In the Champions League we are doing good."

Despite Liverpool's poor run, Salah is still this season's joint Premier League top-scorer alongside Harry Kane on 17.

His own goalscoring has not suffered too badly as he has already reached 25 in all competitions for the third time in four seasons, but the forward is keen to focus on what he can do to help the side's progress.

"I don't want to just talk about my season because we play as a team, so I'd say it's a tough season for all of us and we just need to carry on and try to win games," Salah said.

"We're going to give our 100 per cent to win the next few games and hopefully we can do that and do good also in the Champions League."

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory. Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place.

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory. Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place. The injury-hit Reds are 25 points behind leaders Manchester City and five points adrift of fourth placed Chelsea. Qualifying for next season's Champions League via a top four finish will be tricky but not impossible. Liverpool have shown signs of getting back on track after beating Leipzig in the Champions League last 16 second leg and Wolves in the Premier League. With a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming in April, Egypt forward Salah wants his Liverpool team-mates to target European success. "I'm happy about our last results, so hopefully we can just keep winning," Salah told Liverpool's website. "It's tough for all of us because of the situation we have been through and our position in the Premier League, but I believe it's going to be better. "In the Champions League we are doing good." Despite Liverpool's poor run, Salah is still this season's joint Premier League top-scorer alongside Harry Kane on 17. His own goalscoring has not suffered too badly as he has already reached 25 in all competitions for the third time in four seasons, but the forward is keen to focus on what he can do to help the side's progress. "I don't want to just talk about my season because we play as a team, so I'd say it's a tough season for all of us and we just need to carry on and try to win games," Salah said. "We're going to give our 100 per cent to win the next few games and hopefully we can do that and do good also in the Champions League."

Salah targets successful end to Liverpool's 'tough' season

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