FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic".

Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

"Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained.&nbsp;

Clubs will not &nbsp;be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players.&nbsp;

The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22.

FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots &nbsp;could only take place in Europe.&nbsp;

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement.

FIFA on Monday relaxed the rules on the release of players for the upcoming international window "in light of the recent evolution of the coronavirus pandemic". Clubs are usually obliged to release players to national teams during those parts of the calendar reserved for international games, however quarantine rules in many countries will make travel impractical, FIFA said in a statement. "Many national governments have again implemented travel and immigration restrictions due to a renewed increase in COVID-19 infections. Some of these measures directly impact international competition, such as mandatory periods of quarantine or self-isolation and travel restrictions," the statement explained. Clubs will not be obliged to release their players if there is a mandatory quarantine in the country where the club is based,in the country where the international will take place or there are travel restrictions between the two locations and there are no specific exemptions for the players. The ruling applies to the men's international window from August 31 to September 8 and the women's window from September 14-22. FIFA had already decided that internationals in those slots could only take place in Europe.

FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

With all games in the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-2019-20-psg-become-the-most-tweeted-about-team-on-twitter-323003" hreflang="en">Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter</a>

However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice.

However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans.&nbsp;

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“While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

“We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added.

The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24. 
&nbsp;

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors. With all games in the recent Champions League and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans. ALSO READ: Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice. However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders “We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added. The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League. Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24.

Bayern Munich vs Sevilla: UEFA to allow fans to attend Super Cup in Budapest

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. <o:p></o:p>

Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paris Saint-Germain <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about teams (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Manchester United <o:p></o:p>

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Barcelona<o:p></o:p>

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FC Bayern Munich <o:p></o:p>

In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. <o:p></o:p>

Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern &amp; German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-bayern-munich-equal-barcelonas-treble-feat-322778" hreflang="en">Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat</a><o:p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</o:p>

This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India:<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (Globally):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Atalanta vs PSG<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Most Tweeted about matches (India):<o:p></o:p></h2>

<ol>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Barcelona vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">PSG vs Bayern Munich<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bayern Munich vs Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Top related Topics (India): <o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p></h2>

Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: <o:p></o:p>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Bruno Fernandes, <o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Jadon Sancho<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Paul Pogba<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Marcus Rashford<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Europa League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">UEFA Champions League<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Liverpool FC<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Chelsea<o:p></o:p></li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Manchester United</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid CF <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>

<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics.<o:p></o:p>

Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on &amp; off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.<o:p></o:p>

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday.

Bayern Munich were crowned the champions of Europe for a sixth time when they defeated first-time finalists Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon on Sunday. Due to the pandemic, the matches were played without an audience, but the roar of fans was loud and clear on Twitter. While Bayern Munich won the trophy on ground, Paris Saint-Germain won the hearts off the field, becoming the most Tweeted team on Twitter globally. Manchester United and FC Barcelona were the two most Tweeted teams in India. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Most Tweeted about teams (Globally): Paris Saint-Germain FC Barcelona FC Bayern Munich Most Tweeted about teams (India): 1. Manchester United 2. FC Barcelona 3. FC Bayern Munich In this fixture, both the teams gave each other stiff competition, but Bayern edged past PSG, beating the French side 1-0 in the all-important game. Kingsley Coman scored a goal with a header just before the hour mark. PSG missed quite a few opportunities in the first half itself as Neymar, Angel Di Maria and Kylian Mbappe each failed to beat the veteran Bayern & German shot-stopper Manuel Neuer from a relatively close range. ALSO READ: Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat This #UCLFinal clash between #PSGFCB was the most Tweeted match of this Champions League globally. Here are the most Tweeted about matches globally and in India: Most Tweeted about matches (Globally): PSG vs FC Bayern Munich Barcelona vs FC Bayern Munich Atalanta vs PSG Most Tweeted about matches (India): Barcelona vs Bayern Munich PSG vs Bayern Munich Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Top related Topics (India): Twitter has Topics across numerous interest categories that you can follow to see the best Tweets about what’s happening on the things that matter to you. The following Topics dominated India conversations for UEFA Champions League on Twitter: Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho Paul Pogba Marcus Rashford UEFA Europa League UEFA Champions League Liverpool FC Chelsea Manchester United Real Madrid CF ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders One can choose to follow these Topics and personalise their Twitter experience with relevant Tweets. From the profile menu, on the Home timeline, and in search results, one can see prompts to follow various Topics. Stay tuned to social media platform Twitter for more Football action and updates from on & off the field, as the new season kick-starts next month, #OnlyOnTwitter.

Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.&nbsp;

Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However,

Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities.&nbsp;

“A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

“The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.”

Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third.

<h2>Maguire in trouble</h2>

Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer.

Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-lionel-messi-leave-barcelona-man-city-crunching-numbers-for-argentine-maestro-322969" hreflang="en">Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro</a>

According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.”

<img alt="Harry Maguire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43864a61-223f-457e-8905-ff7edb29b1dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1WO2FS.jpg" />

Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.”

The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England.

It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies.&nbsp;

With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales.

Manchester United may have finished the Premier League 2019-20 season in top four while securing the UEFA Champions League spot for the next season but their off season stories have taken sharp turns with both the centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof being the central to two completely contrasting tales. Lindelof made a timely intervention by chasing down a man who stole an elderly woman’s handbag in his home city of Vasteras on Monday. A police statement said that the suspect snatched the handbag of the elderly woman as he cycled past her. However, Lindelof chased and caught the man before handing him over to the concerned authorities. “A man who was in the vicinity is said to have run after the suspected perpetrator, caught up with him and held him until the police arrived at the scene,” the police said without naming the 26-year-old Lindelof. ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention “The police would like to take this opportunity to thank the witness for a quick and sensible intervention to restore the plaintiff’s property.” Lindelof, who joined United from Portuguese side Benfica in 2017, started 35 Premier League games in the 2019-20 season as they finished third. Maguire in trouble Whereas in a completely contrasting story of other Manchester United defender and captain Harry Maguire, the England international spent two nights in police custody after he was arrested during a holiday with family and friends on the Greek island of Mykonos after charges of aggravated assault and attempted bribery to a police officer. Police said there had been an altercation and exchange of words with an officer who tried to intervene a fight. However, Maguire has denied charges of assault and attempted bribery. ALSO READ: Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro According to Greek police, “three foreigners” are accused of “violence against officials, disobedience, bodily harm, insult and attempted bribery of an official.” Man United released the following statement on Saturday: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file. Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.” The 27-year-old entered his plea on Saturday with a court date for Tuesday in Greece. However, his attendance won’t be required as his lawyer is expected to represent his interests. He is also set to fly back to England. It was even reported that England manager Gareth Southgate is thinking hard about whether to hand a call-up to Maguire for international friendlies. With both Lindelof and Maguire setting two different examples, it will be interesting to see whether these incidents have any major ramification on their forms, especially that of Maguire’s.

Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants? Since then, Barcelona have appointed a new head coach in Ronald Koeman, a club legend as a player but media reports have hinted that Messi is done with his time in Barca.&nbsp;

While Koeman has said he would like to keep the Argentine maestro in the club, latest reports suggest that English club Manchester City are ‘crunching numbers’ to see the possibility of bringing Messi to the Etihad Stadium. Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel also welcomed the idea of signing the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.&nbsp;

With Man City escaping a ban after winning their FFP case against UEFA in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the English club would be really careful about their financial spending and hence, are looking at the numbers closely so that they don’t find themselves in trouble, should the dream transfer go ahead.&nbsp;

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Furthermore, Pep Guardiola, who nurtured Messi to become the best in the world in Barcelona, has the opportunity to work with the little magician once again after their splendid success with the Catalan club in the past. However, a EUR 700 millon release clause makes thing pretty difficult not only for Man City but other clubs who aspire to sign Messi. While Messi is 33-year-old now with only a year left on his contract, Barcelona, in all probability, will play a hard ball.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Koeman is also believed to have had a chat with Guardiola over the Messi saga.&nbsp;

“I am very close with Pep Guardiola and I am still in contact with him now. Pep told me that Messi wants to win, he wants to win everything. And if he doesn’t win, he can get very annoyed. I am looking so much forward to work with him. I have to make sure that Messi will be able to function well in this team, and that he feels important. He is the captain of this club!”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldinho-released-from-paraguay-after-five-months-of-detention-322946" hreflang="en">Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention</a>

“He has to finish his career here. Messi is Barcelona and Barcelona is Messi”, Koeman added. “Of course he is disappointed, I would be too if I lost 8-2. If he wouldn’t be in this emotional state, then it would be worrying.”

It remains to be seen if Messi leaves Barcelona in the ongoing summer transfer window or not. 
&nbsp;

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants?

After Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the quarter-final of UEFA Champions League 2019-20, the impossible looked reality. Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona after this shambolic performance by the Spanish giants? Since then, Barcelona have appointed a new head coach in Ronald Koeman, a club legend as a player but media reports have hinted that Messi is done with his time in Barca. While Koeman has said he would like to keep the Argentine maestro in the club, latest reports suggest that English club Manchester City are ‘crunching numbers’ to see the possibility of bringing Messi to the Etihad Stadium. Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel also welcomed the idea of signing the six-time Ballon d’Or winner. With Man City escaping a ban after winning their FFP case against UEFA in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), the English club would be really careful about their financial spending and hence, are looking at the numbers closely so that they don’t find themselves in trouble, should the dream transfer go ahead. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Furthermore, Pep Guardiola, who nurtured Messi to become the best in the world in Barcelona, has the opportunity to work with the little magician once again after their splendid success with the Catalan club in the past. However, a EUR 700 millon release clause makes thing pretty difficult not only for Man City but other clubs who aspire to sign Messi. While Messi is 33-year-old now with only a year left on his contract, Barcelona, in all probability, will play a hard ball. Interestingly, Koeman is also believed to have had a chat with Guardiola over the Messi saga. “I am very close with Pep Guardiola and I am still in contact with him now. Pep told me that Messi wants to win, he wants to win everything. And if he doesn’t win, he can get very annoyed. I am looking so much forward to work with him. I have to make sure that Messi will be able to function well in this team, and that he feels important. He is the captain of this club!” ALSO READ: Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention “He has to finish his career here. Messi is Barcelona and Barcelona is Messi”, Koeman added. “Of course he is disappointed, I would be too if I lost 8-2. If he wouldn’t be in this emotional state, then it would be worrying.” It remains to be seen if Messi leaves Barcelona in the ongoing summer transfer window or not.

Will Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Man City 'crunching numbers' for Argentine maestro

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge.

The judge declared that the World Cup winner “is free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year.

"He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society."

Ronaldinho, 40, accepted all the terms of his release after being detained for five months. The terms include a payment of $90,000 damages. Whereas his brother, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

Both Ronaldinho and his brother are expected to appear before a judge in Brazil every three months. Ronaldinho for a year, his brother for two.&nbsp;

"There is no indication that he has any personal characteristics or criminal behaviour that ... would put society at risk," the prosecutor said prior to Monday's trial.

Prosecutors were of the general view that Ronaldinho didn’t plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira knew the passports were forged.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-relaxes-rules-on-release-of-players-for-internationals-322923" hreflang="en">FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals</a>

Ronaldinho and his brother arrived in Paraguay on March 4 with the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children. Two days later, the pair were taken into police custody after it was found that the duo had fake documents.

After being detained in an Asuncion police station, where the iconic Brazilian footballer celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the duo was put under house arrest for more than four months inside a luxury hotel on a bail of $1.6 million.

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge.

Former Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho was released Monday by a Paraguayan judge after being in detention for five months over a forged passport. Judge Gustavo Amarilla further released Ronaldinho’s brother Roberto de Assis Moreira, who also was detailed for a month in jail and another four months under house arrest in a hotel in Asuncion, for the same charge. The judge declared that the World Cup winner “is free to travel to whatever country in the world he wants but he must inform us if he changes his permanent residence" for a period of one year. "He has no restrictions except for the fulfilment of reparations for damage to society." Ronaldinho, 40, accepted all the terms of his release after being detained for five months. The terms include a payment of $90,000 damages. Whereas his brother, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager, must pay $110,000. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures Both Ronaldinho and his brother are expected to appear before a judge in Brazil every three months. Ronaldinho for a year, his brother for two. "There is no indication that he has any personal characteristics or criminal behaviour that ... would put society at risk," the prosecutor said prior to Monday's trial. Prosecutors were of the general view that Ronaldinho didn’t plan to manufacture the fake Paraguayan passports but believed de Assis Moreira knew the passports were forged. ALSO READ: FIFA relaxes rules on release of players for internationals Ronaldinho and his brother arrived in Paraguay on March 4 with the 2005 Ballon d’Or winner due to take part in an event in support of disadvantaged children. Two days later, the pair were taken into police custody after it was found that the duo had fake documents. After being detained in an Asuncion police station, where the iconic Brazilian footballer celebrated his 40th birthday on March 21, the duo was put under house arrest for more than four months inside a luxury hotel on a bail of $1.6 million.

Ronaldinho released from Paraguay after five months of detention

Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic, who joined from Italian champions Juventus this summer, said on Sunday that he is "fine" after his new club revealed he had tested positive for coronavirus.

"Fortunately, I am fine and asymptomatic," Pjanic wrote on Instagram.

"But if there's something I've learned, it's that we must never take anything for granted, not even the things we think of as being the most normal.

"The lives we are living now teach us that."

Barca had announced earlier on Sunday that Pjanic had tested positive after feeling "a little unwell", adding that he was in "good health" and self-isolating at home.

Pjanic will "not be travelling to Barcelona for 15 days, when he will be expected to report for duty with the FC Barcelona team," Barca's statement said.

The Bosnia international, who is reported to be on holiday in Italy, will therefore miss the start of pre-season training on August 31 under new coach Ronald Koeman.&nbsp;

The 2020-21 La Liga campaign is due to begin September 12.

Pjanic, 30, was signed in June by Barca for 60 million euros ($70.7 million) as part of an arrangement which saw Brazilian midfielder Arthur move in the opposite direction for 72 million euros.&nbsp;

He is the third Barca player to test positive for COVID-19 following French defensive pair Samuel Umtiti and Jean-Clair Todibo.

Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic, who joined from Italian champions Juventus this summer, said on Sunday that he is "fine" after his new club revealed he had tested positive for coronavirus.

Barcelona midfielder Miralem Pjanic, who joined from Italian champions Juventus this summer, said on Sunday that he is "fine" after his new club revealed he had tested positive for coronavirus. "Fortunately, I am fine and asymptomatic," Pjanic wrote on Instagram. "But if there's something I've learned, it's that we must never take anything for granted, not even the things we think of as being the most normal. "The lives we are living now teach us that." Barca had announced earlier on Sunday that Pjanic had tested positive after feeling "a little unwell", adding that he was in "good health" and self-isolating at home. Pjanic will "not be travelling to Barcelona for 15 days, when he will be expected to report for duty with the FC Barcelona team," Barca's statement said. The Bosnia international, who is reported to be on holiday in Italy, will therefore miss the start of pre-season training on August 31 under new coach Ronald Koeman. The 2020-21 La Liga campaign is due to begin September 12. Pjanic, 30, was signed in June by Barca for 60 million euros ($70.7 million) as part of an arrangement which saw Brazilian midfielder Arthur move in the opposite direction for 72 million euros. He is the third Barca player to test positive for COVID-19 following French defensive pair Samuel Umtiti and Jean-Clair Todibo.

Barca newcomer Pjanic 'fine' after positive coronavirus test

Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday.

PSG's Qatari owners spent a combined 402 million euros ($474m) on the pair in 2017 to win this competition.

However, they struggled to impose themselves on the German giants who have now won Europe's top prize on six occasions.

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, ended the night with a yellow card and in floods of tears.

"We want Neymar and Kylian to score but we can't ask for it all the time," said Tuchel.

"I am proud because 'Ney' still had a match with an incredible capacity, he showed his mentality.&nbsp;

"For Kylian it was difficult, he suffered a serious injury, missed a lot of training. It was a miracle that he was with us at all."

Mbappe had a great chance to score but shot straight at goalkeeper Manuel Neuer just before half-time.

As it was, Kingsley Coman, for whom PSG was his boyhood club, grabbed the only goal in the second half.

"I am convinced that if we had scored the first goal, we'd win the game 1-0," added Tuchel.

"I had the impression that the first goal would decide the fate of this final."

He added: "We have to keep this quality to continue on this road."

But will he still be in charge when PSG open their new season in the coming week?

"I have a contract, I don't know anything else."

<h2>- 'Proud' PSG -</h2>

PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi insisted the Champions League remains within their grasp.

"I am very proud of my players," said the Qatari.

"We had a great season, a great tournament here. Nobody thought we would go to the final.&nbsp;

We were very close to winning, we did everything to win, but that's football. We will work next season to win the Champions League because that is our goal."

PSG midfielder Ander Herrera admitted losing the final was tough to take but insisted the mega-rich French club cannot put their achievements "in the trash".

"We have built something important. We have to stay together and start the next dream next week," said Spanish international Herrera of a team who have won seven of the last eight Ligue 1 titles.

"At the moment, it feels like crap, honestly. But we have to think about it, we have done something important, something important for the club, for our supporters.

"There are no words. Tomorrow we'll think about what we did, the squad we built, the things we did together."

Herrera, signed from Manchester United in 2019, said he was encouraged by what he saw in the final as PSG "created lots of chances, more than them."&nbsp;

He also hoped that the club's cash-rich but potentially impatient owners from Qatar won't press the panic button now that their European dream has been shattered.

"We are not going to put this in the trash," said the 31-year-old.

Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday.

Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel defended his 400 million euro strike force of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after they were unable to find a way past Bayern Munich in their 1-0 Champions League final loss on Sunday. PSG's Qatari owners spent a combined 402 million euros ($474m) on the pair in 2017 to win this competition. However, they struggled to impose themselves on the German giants who have now won Europe's top prize on six occasions. Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, ended the night with a yellow card and in floods of tears. "We want Neymar and Kylian to score but we can't ask for it all the time," said Tuchel. "I am proud because 'Ney' still had a match with an incredible capacity, he showed his mentality. "For Kylian it was difficult, he suffered a serious injury, missed a lot of training. It was a miracle that he was with us at all." Mbappe had a great chance to score but shot straight at goalkeeper Manuel Neuer just before half-time. As it was, Kingsley Coman, for whom PSG was his boyhood club, grabbed the only goal in the second half. "I am convinced that if we had scored the first goal, we'd win the game 1-0," added Tuchel. "I had the impression that the first goal would decide the fate of this final." He added: "We have to keep this quality to continue on this road." But will he still be in charge when PSG open their new season in the coming week? "I have a contract, I don't know anything else." - 'Proud' PSG - PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi insisted the Champions League remains within their grasp. "I am very proud of my players," said the Qatari. "We had a great season, a great tournament here. Nobody thought we would go to the final. We were very close to winning, we did everything to win, but that's football. We will work next season to win the Champions League because that is our goal." PSG midfielder Ander Herrera admitted losing the final was tough to take but insisted the mega-rich French club cannot put their achievements "in the trash". "We have built something important. We have to stay together and start the next dream next week," said Spanish international Herrera of a team who have won seven of the last eight Ligue 1 titles. "At the moment, it feels like crap, honestly. But we have to think about it, we have done something important, something important for the club, for our supporters. "There are no words. Tomorrow we'll think about what we did, the squad we built, the things we did together." Herrera, signed from Manchester United in 2019, said he was encouraged by what he saw in the final as PSG "created lots of chances, more than them." He also hoped that the club's cash-rich but potentially impatient owners from Qatar won't press the panic button now that their European dream has been shattered. "We are not going to put this in the trash," said the 31-year-old.

PSG boss Tuchel backs Neymar and Mbappe after final loss

It will be remembered as the strangest of Champions League seasons but it has ended with a familiar name on the trophy after Bayern Munich got the better of Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's final in Lisbon, with their deserved success the result of the remarkable job done by coach Hansi Flick.

There was tickertape at the trophy ceremony and the usual celebratory songs playing over the loudspeakers at the Estadio da Luz as the Bayern players savoured the moment after Kingsley Coman's goal saw them defeat PSG 1-0.

But it was a bizarre spectacle with the 65,000-seat stadium empty, supporters having been barred from attending the biggest match in club football.

The coronavirus pandemic killed the Champions League as we know it, at least temporarily, and UEFA was forced to come up with a new 'Final Eight' format in order to make sure its flagship competition was completed.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin told AFP in an interview in Lisbon that the format was likely to be a one-off, and some will be tempted to say that this Champions League should always have an asterisk next to it.

But, against first-time finalists PSG, Bayern were worthy winners of their sixth European Cup, their third in the Champions League era.

They won all their 11 Champions League matches this season, an unprecedented feat.&nbsp;

They scored 43 goals in that time on a run that included a 7-2 win at Tottenham Hotspur and the stunning 8-2 demolition of Barcelona in the quarter-finals in Lisbon.

They just had the better of the final, even if they were fortunate at times up against the French side's formidable attack of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria.

In Manuel Neuer, Jerome Boateng, David Alaba and Thomas Mueller, Bayern's line-up featured four survivors from their last final victory, against Borussia Dortmund in 2013.

But this was also about the new faces, such as 19-year-old left-back Alphonso Davies, the Canadian international.

"Moments like these you dream of as a kid," he told DAZN. "I honestly can't believe it, winning the Champions League is the top level."

<h2>- Winning formula -</h2>

Flick deserves great credit.

A year ago Bayern were dumped out by Liverpool, the eventual winners, in the last 16, and under Niko Kovac looked a long way off being contenders to win the trophy again.

But Flick replaced Kovac in November, initially as caretaker, and has gone on to win a treble.

"It's such a huge joy, it feels like we have come a long way since November," said Mueller, a player reborn under Flick.

"I don't know how it looked from outside, but it felt like we deserved it in the way we played."

As for changing coach mid-season, it is a formula that has worked for clubs at this level in the recent past.

Flick is the third coach in the last decade to win the Champions League having being appointed during a campaign, after Roberto di Matteo with Chelsea in 2011/12 and Zinedine Zidane with Real Madrid in 2015/16.

Zidane went on to win the next two as well.

<h2>- 'Not the football we know' -</h2>

It remains to be seen how Bayern will fare next season, which is just around the corner, with the Bundesliga starting on September 18 and the Champions League group stage in October.

They will be a formidable force again, but so will their rivals, including PSG, who need not be too downbeat in defeat.

"Over the last few weeks we have shown everything you need to win every title going," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel.

"We lost 1-0 in the final against one of the strongest sides in Europe. We must maintain the same quality to carry on this road."

The format of one-off matches in the quarter-finals and semi-finals maybe helped PSG more than anybody else, given their struggles in knockout ties in recent years.

But, as long as the health crisis does not worsen again, the Champions League will return to normal in the new campaign, and that includes seeing at least some fans return to stadiums.

Istanbul is in line to host the 2021 final, having had this season's showpiece taken away, and hopefully the winning team will be able to celebrate with their supporters.

As Flick said: "It's a pity that the fans couldn't be here with us today. Perhaps they can be back again in the future. A game like this without supporters is not the football that we know."

It will be remembered as the strangest of Champions League seasons but it has ended with a familiar name on the trophy after Bayern Munich got the better of Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's final in Lisbon, with their deserved success the result of the remarkable job done by coach Hansi Flick.

It will be remembered as the strangest of Champions League seasons but it has ended with a familiar name on the trophy after Bayern Munich got the better of Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's final in Lisbon, with their deserved success the result of the remarkable job done by coach Hansi Flick. There was tickertape at the trophy ceremony and the usual celebratory songs playing over the loudspeakers at the Estadio da Luz as the Bayern players savoured the moment after Kingsley Coman's goal saw them defeat PSG 1-0. But it was a bizarre spectacle with the 65,000-seat stadium empty, supporters having been barred from attending the biggest match in club football. The coronavirus pandemic killed the Champions League as we know it, at least temporarily, and UEFA was forced to come up with a new 'Final Eight' format in order to make sure its flagship competition was completed. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin told AFP in an interview in Lisbon that the format was likely to be a one-off, and some will be tempted to say that this Champions League should always have an asterisk next to it. But, against first-time finalists PSG, Bayern were worthy winners of their sixth European Cup, their third in the Champions League era. They won all their 11 Champions League matches this season, an unprecedented feat. They scored 43 goals in that time on a run that included a 7-2 win at Tottenham Hotspur and the stunning 8-2 demolition of Barcelona in the quarter-finals in Lisbon. They just had the better of the final, even if they were fortunate at times up against the French side's formidable attack of Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria. In Manuel Neuer, Jerome Boateng, David Alaba and Thomas Mueller, Bayern's line-up featured four survivors from their last final victory, against Borussia Dortmund in 2013. But this was also about the new faces, such as 19-year-old left-back Alphonso Davies, the Canadian international. "Moments like these you dream of as a kid," he told DAZN. "I honestly can't believe it, winning the Champions League is the top level." - Winning formula - Flick deserves great credit. A year ago Bayern were dumped out by Liverpool, the eventual winners, in the last 16, and under Niko Kovac looked a long way off being contenders to win the trophy again. But Flick replaced Kovac in November, initially as caretaker, and has gone on to win a treble. "It's such a huge joy, it feels like we have come a long way since November," said Mueller, a player reborn under Flick. "I don't know how it looked from outside, but it felt like we deserved it in the way we played." As for changing coach mid-season, it is a formula that has worked for clubs at this level in the recent past. Flick is the third coach in the last decade to win the Champions League having being appointed during a campaign, after Roberto di Matteo with Chelsea in 2011/12 and Zinedine Zidane with Real Madrid in 2015/16. Zidane went on to win the next two as well. - 'Not the football we know' - It remains to be seen how Bayern will fare next season, which is just around the corner, with the Bundesliga starting on September 18 and the Champions League group stage in October. They will be a formidable force again, but so will their rivals, including PSG, who need not be too downbeat in defeat. "Over the last few weeks we have shown everything you need to win every title going," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "We lost 1-0 in the final against one of the strongest sides in Europe. We must maintain the same quality to carry on this road." The format of one-off matches in the quarter-finals and semi-finals maybe helped PSG more than anybody else, given their struggles in knockout ties in recent years. But, as long as the health crisis does not worsen again, the Champions League will return to normal in the new campaign, and that includes seeing at least some fans return to stadiums. Istanbul is in line to host the 2021 final, having had this season's showpiece taken away, and hopefully the winning team will be able to celebrate with their supporters. As Flick said: "It's a pity that the fans couldn't be here with us today. Perhaps they can be back again in the future. A game like this without supporters is not the football that we know."

Bayern worthy winners in strangest Champions League season

Paris police were attacked and shops in the French capital were vandalised overnight following Paris Saint Germain’s (PSG) defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League final, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Monday.

“The savagery of certain delinquents from last night: 16 members of the police forces injured, 12 shops attacked, around 15 cars vandalised,” wrote Darmanin on Twitter.

Bayern Munich beat PSG 1-0 in the final in Lisbon, Portugal.

PSG fans had already been involved in clashes in Paris with the police earlier on Sunday. Some supporters threw projectiles at police vehicles outside PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium and had to be dispersed with tear gas, video footage on social media showed.

Paris police were attacked and shops in the French capital were vandalised overnight following Paris Saint Germain’s (PSG) defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League final, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Monday.

Paris police were attacked and shops in the French capital were vandalised overnight following Paris Saint Germain’s (PSG) defeat to Bayern Munich in the Champions League final, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Monday. “The savagery of certain delinquents from last night: 16 members of the police forces injured, 12 shops attacked, around 15 cars vandalised,” wrote Darmanin on Twitter. Bayern Munich beat PSG 1-0 in the final in Lisbon, Portugal. PSG fans had already been involved in clashes in Paris with the police earlier on Sunday. Some supporters threw projectiles at police vehicles outside PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium and had to be dispersed with tear gas, video footage on social media showed.

Paris police attacked and shops vandalised after PSG defeat

Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures

Bayern Munich on Sunday defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2019-20</a> in what can be termed as an emphatic season for the German giants. Paris-born Kingsley Coman headed in a delicious cross by Joshua Kimmich to score the only game of the match for Bayern Munich at the Estadio da Luz stadium as they became only the second team after Barcelona to win the treble twice.

While Bayern Munich completed the treble for the first time in 2014-15 season under Jupp Heynckes and achieved the feat twice in 2019-20 season under Hansi Flick, Barcelona completed the landmark in 2009 and 2015.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-worthy-winners-in-strangest-champions-league-season-322691" hreflang="en">Bayern worthy winners in strangest Champions League season</a>

Talking about the final between Bayern Munich and PSG, the encounter was enticing with both teams creating good chances in the first half. While the likes of Neymar, Mbappe and Angel Di Maria should have given the lead to PSG, Lewandowski struck the post in the first half for the German clubs.&nbsp;

However, PSG looked a bit lost in the second half as Bayern capitalized on the opportunity and dominated the proceedings. However, PSG midfielder Marquinhos had a glorious opportunity to put PSG in front only to be denied by Manuel Neuer, who arguably had one of his finest performance in front of the goal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-boss-tuchel-backs-neymar-and-mbappe-after-final-loss-322693" hreflang="en">PSG boss Tuchel backs Neymar and Mbappe after final loss</a>

With Bayern dominating the game in the second-half, Kimmich curled an inch-perfect cross to Coman at the far post only for the Frenchman to head it past Keylor Navas to make it 1-0 for Bayern Munich.&nbsp;

"It's such a huge joy, it feels like we have come a long way since November," said Mueller, a player reborn under Flick.

"I don't know how it looked from outside, but it felt like we deserved it in the way we played."

Bayern Munich on Sunday defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 to win the UEFA Champions League 2019-20 in what can be termed as an emphatic season for the German giants.

Bayern Munich on Sunday defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 to win the UEFA Champions League 2019-20 in what can be termed as an emphatic season for the German giants. Paris-born Kingsley Coman headed in a delicious cross by Joshua Kimmich to score the only game of the match for Bayern Munich at the Estadio da Luz stadium as they became only the second team after Barcelona to win the treble twice. While Bayern Munich completed the treble for the first time in 2014-15 season under Jupp Heynckes and achieved the feat twice in 2019-20 season under Hansi Flick, Barcelona completed the landmark in 2009 and 2015. ALSO READ: Bayern worthy winners in strangest Champions League season Talking about the final between Bayern Munich and PSG, the encounter was enticing with both teams creating good chances in the first half. While the likes of Neymar, Mbappe and Angel Di Maria should have given the lead to PSG, Lewandowski struck the post in the first half for the German clubs. However, PSG looked a bit lost in the second half as Bayern capitalized on the opportunity and dominated the proceedings. However, PSG midfielder Marquinhos had a glorious opportunity to put PSG in front only to be denied by Manuel Neuer, who arguably had one of his finest performance in front of the goal. ALSO READ: PSG boss Tuchel backs Neymar and Mbappe after final loss With Bayern dominating the game in the second-half, Kimmich curled an inch-perfect cross to Coman at the far post only for the Frenchman to head it past Keylor Navas to make it 1-0 for Bayern Munich. "It's such a huge joy, it feels like we have come a long way since November," said Mueller, a player reborn under Flick. "I don't know how it looked from outside, but it felt like we deserved it in the way we played."

Champions League: Bayern Munich equal Barcelona's 'treble' feat

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame&nbsp;as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers.

The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame&nbsp;show, hosted by commentator Alan Wilkins, featured retired greats Sunil Gavaskar, Melanie Jones and Shaun Pollock as the main guests and had Wasim Akram, Graeme Smith and Alyssa Healy join in to congratulate and appreciate the 2020 inductees.

Kallis is the fourth South African player inducted and Zaheer the sixth from Pakistan. Lisa is the 27th&nbsp;from Australia and the ninth woman player in the list, which includes five from Australia. In all, 93 players have been inducted so far under the system, which sees retired players become eligible five years after playing their last international match.&nbsp;

Former ICC Cricket Hall of Famers formed the majority of the adjudicating panel with representation from the media, ICC and Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (FICA).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cpl-2020-chemar-holds-his-nerve-as-chase-is-too-much-for-guyana-322701" hreflang="en">CPL 2020: Chemar holds his nerve as Chase is too much for Guyana</a>

ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney:&nbsp;“It is always a pleasure to announce the latest set of inductees into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come. I congratulate Zaheer, Jacques and Lisa on their inclusion in the pantheon of cricket greats.”&nbsp;

Jacques Kallis:&nbsp;“It’s a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. It is something that I never expected when I started playing. I certainly did not play the game for any accolades or anything like that, I only wanted to win the games for whoever I was playing for.&nbsp;

“But it is nice to be recognised when one has succeeded in the sport, it is nice to be recognised by people for something that you have achieved in the game, something that I am really proud of.”&nbsp;

Lisa Sthalekar:&nbsp;“I am deeply humbled to receive this honour. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I would ever get to join such an illustrious group of players.&nbsp;

“I was fortunate enough to learn from the best when I entered the Australia team – Belinda Clark, Karen Rolton and Cathryn Fitzpatrick, all of whom have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and rightly so.&nbsp;The guidance from them and other teammates along the way kept me focused but also ensured that it was a fun environment. Thanks to all my teammates.&nbsp;

“It goes without saying that if it wasn’t for the support of my family, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have.”&nbsp;

Zaheer Abbas:&nbsp;“I feel privileged and truly humbled to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame of the class of 2020. I am excited to be in the midst of other illustrious cricketers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rizwan-adamant-pakistan-can-save-test-despite-following-on-310-runs-behind-england-322697" hreflang="en">Rizwan adamant Pakistan can save Test despite following-on 310 runs behind England</a>

“I would like to say a special thanks to my family, my country Pakistan, my county Gloucestershire and many fans worldwide who helped me achieve and fulfil my dreams by playing this great game at the highest level. Thank you, ICC, and the members of the jury, for this special honour. It is a final recognition for any cricketer.

“This great game has made me the person I am. Thank you cricket.”

Some career highlights of the latest inductees

Jacques Kallis

<ul>
	<li>The only player to score at least 10,000 runs and take at least 250 wickets in both Test and ODI cricket</li>
	<li>ICC Player of the Year and ICC Test Player of the year in 2005</li>
	<li>South Africa’s leading Test run-scorer, and currently third on the all-time list</li>
	<li>The most capped South African player in both Test and ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Scored 113 not out in the semi-final and took 5-30 in the final as South Africa won the first ICC Knockout Tournament (later the ICC Champions Trophy) in 1998</li>
	<li>Won 23 ‘Player of the Match’ awards in Test cricket, more than anyone else</li>
	<li>Spent 592 days as the No.1 ranked Test batsman (2005-2011)</li>
	<li>Spent 4028 days as the No.1 ranked Test all-rounder (2000-2013) and a record 493 matches ranked number 1</li>
</ul>

Lisa Sthalekar

<ul>
	<li>Over the course of her career, topped both ODI batting and bowling rankings</li>
	<li>The first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Spent 934 days as the No.1 ranked ODI all-rounder (2007-2010)</li>
	<li>Part of the Australia teams that won the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2005 and 2013 and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2010 and 2012</li>
	<li>She won 12 Women’s National Cricket League titles with New South Wales, and was captain for five victories in a row</li>
	<li>Short-listed for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in both 2007 and 2008 and for ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2012</li>
</ul>

Zaheer Abbas

<ul>
	<li>The only player from Asia to have scored at least a 100 first-class hundreds</li>
	<li>Became just the second player to score his hundredth first-class century in a Test Match</li>
	<li>He scored two centuries in the same first-class match on a record eight occasions</li>
	<li>On a record four occasions he scored a double-century and a century in the same first-class match</li>
	<li>The first player to score three successive centuries in ODI cricket</li>
	<li>Spent 215 days as the No.1 ranked ODI batsman (1983-1984)</li>
	<li>Captained Pakistan in 14 Test Matches, and only lost one of them</li>
	<li>Later served as an ICC Match Referee and as ICC President</li>
</ul>

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers.

Lisa Sthalekar, Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Abbas became the latest names to be inducted in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame as the global cricket body honoured their stellar careers. The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame show, hosted by commentator Alan Wilkins, featured retired greats Sunil Gavaskar, Melanie Jones and Shaun Pollock as the main guests and had Wasim Akram, Graeme Smith and Alyssa Healy join in to congratulate and appreciate the 2020 inductees. Kallis is the fourth South African player inducted and Zaheer the sixth from Pakistan. Lisa is the 27th from Australia and the ninth woman player in the list, which includes five from Australia. In all, 93 players have been inducted so far under the system, which sees retired players become eligible five years after playing their last international match. Former ICC Cricket Hall of Famers formed the majority of the adjudicating panel with representation from the media, ICC and Federation of International Cricketers’ Association (FICA). ALSO READ: CPL 2020: Chemar holds his nerve as Chase is too much for Guyana ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney: “It is always a pleasure to announce the latest set of inductees into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. These are all players with a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations for years to come. I congratulate Zaheer, Jacques and Lisa on their inclusion in the pantheon of cricket greats.” Jacques Kallis: “It’s a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. It is something that I never expected when I started playing. I certainly did not play the game for any accolades or anything like that, I only wanted to win the games for whoever I was playing for. “But it is nice to be recognised when one has succeeded in the sport, it is nice to be recognised by people for something that you have achieved in the game, something that I am really proud of.” Lisa Sthalekar: “I am deeply humbled to receive this honour. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I would ever get to join such an illustrious group of players. “I was fortunate enough to learn from the best when I entered the Australia team – Belinda Clark, Karen Rolton and Cathryn Fitzpatrick, all of whom have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and rightly so. The guidance from them and other teammates along the way kept me focused but also ensured that it was a fun environment. Thanks to all my teammates. “It goes without saying that if it wasn’t for the support of my family, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have.” Zaheer Abbas: “I feel privileged and truly humbled to be inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame of the class of 2020. I am excited to be in the midst of other illustrious cricketers. ALSO READ: Rizwan adamant Pakistan can save Test despite following-on 310 runs behind England “I would like to say a special thanks to my family, my country Pakistan, my county Gloucestershire and many fans worldwide who helped me achieve and fulfil my dreams by playing this great game at the highest level. Thank you, ICC, and the members of the jury, for this special honour. It is a final recognition for any cricketer. “This great game has made me the person I am. Thank you cricket.” Some career highlights of the latest inductees Jacques Kallis The only player to score at least 10,000 runs and take at least 250 wickets in both Test and ODI cricket ICC Player of the Year and ICC Test Player of the year in 2005 South Africa’s leading Test run-scorer, and currently third on the all-time list The most capped South African player in both Test and ODI cricket Scored 113 not out in the semi-final and took 5-30 in the final as South Africa won the first ICC Knockout Tournament (later the ICC Champions Trophy) in 1998 Won 23 ‘Player of the Match’ awards in Test cricket, more than anyone else Spent 592 days as the No.1 ranked Test batsman (2005-2011) Spent 4028 days as the No.1 ranked Test all-rounder (2000-2013) and a record 493 matches ranked number 1 Lisa Sthalekar Over the course of her career, topped both ODI batting and bowling rankings The first woman to achieve the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODI cricket Spent 934 days as the No.1 ranked ODI all-rounder (2007-2010) Part of the Australia teams that won the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2005 and 2013 and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2010 and 2012 She won 12 Women’s National Cricket League titles with New South Wales, and was captain for five victories in a row Short-listed for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year in both 2007 and 2008 and for ICC Women’s T20I Cricketer of the Year in 2012 Zaheer Abbas The only player from Asia to have scored at least a 100 first-class hundreds Became just the second player to score his hundredth first-class century in a Test Match He scored two centuries in the same first-class match on a record eight occasions On a record four occasions he scored a double-century and a century in the same first-class match The first player to score three successive centuries in ODI cricket Spent 215 days as the No.1 ranked ODI batsman (1983-1984) Captained Pakistan in 14 Test Matches, and only lost one of them Later served as an ICC Match Referee and as ICC President

Kallis, Sthalekar and Zaheer Abbas inducted into ICC Cricket Hall of Fame

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who is also the costliest defender on the basis of transfer fees paid (£85million), has been arrested at the Green island of Mykonos for having a row with other tourists&nbsp;outside a bar.

The Man United defender was allegedly spotted by the police when he was having an altercation with other British tourist on Thursday night, as per reports in the local media. When the police officers came in between, three Englishmen allegedly fought back verbally and physically and as a result, they were detained in the early hours of Friday and among them was Maguire.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Maguire was taken away by the police handcuffed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-ethics-committee-drops-infantino-case-321990" hreflang="en">FIFA ethics committee drops Infantino case</a>

As per a video on a Greek website, Maguire was earlier spotted chatting with a few fans in Matogiannia area of Mykonos town. But with the Manchester United captain being detained, the news won’t be welcomed by the Red Devils fanbase as the former Leicester City defender has been central to criticism following some shoddy defending since restart. The massive transfer price tag doesn’t help his case either.

Manchester United, in a statement, said that they have made contact with Maguire and the club captain is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-true-final-of-champions-awaits-in-lisbon-321975" hreflang="en">A true final of champions awaits in Lisbon</a>

Manchester United said in a statement: 'The club is aware of an alleged incident involving Harry Maguire in Mykonos last night.

'Contact has been made with Harry, and he is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities.

'At this time we will be making no further comment.' 
&nbsp;

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who is also the costliest defender on the basis of transfer fees paid (£85million), has been arrested at the Green island of Mykonos for having a row with other tourists outside a bar.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who is also the costliest defender on the basis of transfer fees paid (£85million), has been arrested at the Green island of Mykonos for having a row with other tourists outside a bar. The Man United defender was allegedly spotted by the police when he was having an altercation with other British tourist on Thursday night, as per reports in the local media. When the police officers came in between, three Englishmen allegedly fought back verbally and physically and as a result, they were detained in the early hours of Friday and among them was Maguire. Reportedly, Maguire was taken away by the police handcuffed. ALSO READ: FIFA ethics committee drops Infantino case As per a video on a Greek website, Maguire was earlier spotted chatting with a few fans in Matogiannia area of Mykonos town. But with the Manchester United captain being detained, the news won’t be welcomed by the Red Devils fanbase as the former Leicester City defender has been central to criticism following some shoddy defending since restart. The massive transfer price tag doesn’t help his case either. Manchester United, in a statement, said that they have made contact with Maguire and the club captain is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities. ALSO READ: A true final of champions awaits in Lisbon Manchester United said in a statement: 'The club is aware of an alleged incident involving Harry Maguire in Mykonos last night. 'Contact has been made with Harry, and he is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities. 'At this time we will be making no further comment.'

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire arrested after altercation at Mykonos bar

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has made it clear to new manager Ronald Koeman that he is considering his future at Nou Camp having lost faith in the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu. Messi has been on vacation since Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final but held talks with Koeman in relation to club’s future and his position within the team.

As per a report in RAC1, Messi returned to Barcelona to have a word with Koeman, who is keen for him to stay and fulfil his contract which runs till 2021 season. However, Messi told Koeman that he was ‘more out than in’ after Barcelona’s first trophyless season in 12 years.

Notably, Messi has a whopping £630million (€700m) release clause at Barcelona and still has one year to go in his contract. And it will be near to impossible for any club to pay that sort of amount amid COVID-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/show-commitment-or-leave-ronald-koeman-promises-to-revive-barcelona-321970" hreflang="en">Show commitment or leave: Ronald Koeman promises to revive Barcelona</a>

While Koeman, during his presentation as new Barca manager, admitted that he wants ‘the best player in the world’ Messi to stay at the club, the Dutchman added that he wants players who are fully determined and committed. Even Bartomeu has said that Messi wants to retire at the club, contrary to reports floating in media.

“He is a Barcelona player. He has another year. I don’t know if I have to convince him to stay,” Koeman had said on Wednesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-true-final-of-champions-awaits-in-lisbon-321975" hreflang="en">A true final of champions awaits in Lisbon</a>

"He has a contract until 2021. I talk to him regularly and he knows there's a project with a new coach here. We're all disappointed at the moment, but we're motivated by the new project."His father told me that there was a strong disappointment. This is correct, but since Sunday we have to think about the future. It's about changing the mentality," Bartomeu said.

However, if Messi decides to leave Barcelona then it will arguably the biggest transfer news of all-time. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has made it clear to new manager Ronald Koeman that he is considering his future at Nou Camp having lost faith in the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi has made it clear to new manager Ronald Koeman that he is considering his future at Nou Camp having lost faith in the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu. Messi has been on vacation since Barcelona’s humiliating 8-2 defeat to Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final but held talks with Koeman in relation to club’s future and his position within the team. As per a report in RAC1, Messi returned to Barcelona to have a word with Koeman, who is keen for him to stay and fulfil his contract which runs till 2021 season. However, Messi told Koeman that he was ‘more out than in’ after Barcelona’s first trophyless season in 12 years. Notably, Messi has a whopping £630million (€700m) release clause at Barcelona and still has one year to go in his contract. And it will be near to impossible for any club to pay that sort of amount amid COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Show commitment or leave: Ronald Koeman promises to revive Barcelona While Koeman, during his presentation as new Barca manager, admitted that he wants ‘the best player in the world’ Messi to stay at the club, the Dutchman added that he wants players who are fully determined and committed. Even Bartomeu has said that Messi wants to retire at the club, contrary to reports floating in media. “He is a Barcelona player. He has another year. I don’t know if I have to convince him to stay,” Koeman had said on Wednesday. ALSO READ: A true final of champions awaits in Lisbon "He has a contract until 2021. I talk to him regularly and he knows there's a project with a new coach here. We're all disappointed at the moment, but we're motivated by the new project."His father told me that there was a strong disappointment. This is correct, but since Sunday we have to think about the future. It's about changing the mentality," Bartomeu said. However, if Messi decides to leave Barcelona then it will arguably the biggest transfer news of all-time.

Lionel Messi considering future at Barcelona, tells Ronald Koeman he's 'more out than in'

Former Premier League striker Demba Ba has called on football to condemn China's alleged persecution of its mainly Muslim Uighur minority, and accused the sport of putting money before morals.

The Senegalese international, a Muslim who played more than 50 times for China's Shanghai Shenhua, told the BBC he was prepared to spearhead a movement to "stand up".

China's ruling Communist Party is under growing international pressure over the fate of minorities in its northwestern region of Xinjiang.

More than one million ethnic Uighurs and other minorities, mostly Muslim Turkic peoples, have been herded into internment camps to undergo political indoctrination, according to rights groups and experts.

China says the camps are "vocational education centres" necessary to counter religious extremism and boost employment.

Ba, who played for Chelsea, Newcastle United and West Ham United, said: "I have to try and organise something so football players can get together and, in the meantime, talk about this matter because not a lot of people want to.

"I know there are footballers who want to fight for justice, whether Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, any belief," added Ba, 35, who now plays for Basaksehir in Turkey.

"As sports people, we have a power we don't even know. If we get together and talk, things change. If we stand up, people stand up with us."

Ba joins Arsenal's Mesut Ozil in breaking ranks over China's treatment of its Uighurs.

The German midfielder spoke out last year, prompting China's state TV to cut its broadcast of an Arsenal game. Ozil last week hit out at what he said was Arsenal's failure to back him.

<h2>- 'People close their eyes' -</h2>

Arsenal did not criticise Ozil for making the comments, but posted on China's Twitter-like Weibo that the club "always adheres to the principles" of not getting involved in politics.

In China, the world's second-biggest economy and a major market for the Premier League and other international sports, Ozil was lambasted as "a clown" by state media.

Since that incident English football clubs, including Arsenal, have supported the Black Lives Matter movement after George Floyd was killed in the United States.

Ba drew parallels between football's anti-racism message -- with players "taking a knee" before Premier League games -- with what he said was silence over Xinjiang.

"The Black Lives Matter movement is stronger when non-black people step up for it," Ba said.

"When are we going to see the rest of the world stand up for Muslims?" he asked, accusing clubs of putting "pressure on players not to get involved" in the Uighur question.

"If there was a financial risk to Black Lives Matter, it would not have happened," said Ba, who says he had no problems practising his religion after arriving in China in 2015.

"Arsenal talked about Black Lives Matter but when it was about Uighur lives Arsenal didn't want to talk about it because of the pressure and economic impact.

"When there are financial benefits, some people close their eyes.

"Money has more value than real values."

Former Premier League striker Demba Ba has called on football to condemn China's alleged persecution of its mainly Muslim Uighur minority, and accused the sport of putting money before morals.

Former Premier League striker Demba Ba has called on football to condemn China's alleged persecution of its mainly Muslim Uighur minority, and accused the sport of putting money before morals. The Senegalese international, a Muslim who played more than 50 times for China's Shanghai Shenhua, told the BBC he was prepared to spearhead a movement to "stand up". China's ruling Communist Party is under growing international pressure over the fate of minorities in its northwestern region of Xinjiang. More than one million ethnic Uighurs and other minorities, mostly Muslim Turkic peoples, have been herded into internment camps to undergo political indoctrination, according to rights groups and experts. China says the camps are "vocational education centres" necessary to counter religious extremism and boost employment. Ba, who played for Chelsea, Newcastle United and West Ham United, said: "I have to try and organise something so football players can get together and, in the meantime, talk about this matter because not a lot of people want to. "I know there are footballers who want to fight for justice, whether Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, any belief," added Ba, 35, who now plays for Basaksehir in Turkey. "As sports people, we have a power we don't even know. If we get together and talk, things change. If we stand up, people stand up with us." Ba joins Arsenal's Mesut Ozil in breaking ranks over China's treatment of its Uighurs. The German midfielder spoke out last year, prompting China's state TV to cut its broadcast of an Arsenal game. Ozil last week hit out at what he said was Arsenal's failure to back him. - 'People close their eyes' - Arsenal did not criticise Ozil for making the comments, but posted on China's Twitter-like Weibo that the club "always adheres to the principles" of not getting involved in politics. In China, the world's second-biggest economy and a major market for the Premier League and other international sports, Ozil was lambasted as "a clown" by state media. Since that incident English football clubs, including Arsenal, have supported the Black Lives Matter movement after George Floyd was killed in the United States. Ba drew parallels between football's anti-racism message -- with players "taking a knee" before Premier League games -- with what he said was silence over Xinjiang. "The Black Lives Matter movement is stronger when non-black people step up for it," Ba said. "When are we going to see the rest of the world stand up for Muslims?" he asked, accusing clubs of putting "pressure on players not to get involved" in the Uighur question. "If there was a financial risk to Black Lives Matter, it would not have happened," said Ba, who says he had no problems practising his religion after arriving in China in 2015. "Arsenal talked about Black Lives Matter but when it was about Uighur lives Arsenal didn't want to talk about it because of the pressure and economic impact. "When there are financial benefits, some people close their eyes. "Money has more value than real values."

Demba Ba urges football to 'stand up' over China's Uighurs

Two years on from the embarrassment of being sacked as coach of his country on the eve of a World Cup, Julen Lopetegui has rebuilt his reputation to take Sevilla back to a sixth Europa League final in 14 years.

The Spaniards' success in Europe's second-tier competition is no longer a surprise despite the continued churn of players and coaches without the wealth of the continent's superclubs.

However, a return to the Europa League final for the first time since 2016 on top of a first top-four finish in La Liga for three seasons, is sweet vindication for Lopetegui after a nightmare few months in 2018 threatened to derail his coaching career.

Hopes were high that the former Real Madrid and Barcelona goalkeeper could produce one last hurrah from Spain's golden generation that had won three major tournaments from 2008 to 2012 ahead of the World Cup in Russia.

Spain were unbeaten in Lopetegui's 20 games in charge of the national team, including impressive wins over Argentina, Italy, Belgium and eventual world champions France.

But he paid a heavy price for his own misjudgement and the politics of Spanish football as he accepted the role as Zinedine Zidane's successor at Real Madrid days before the tournament got underway.

Furious Spanish federation president Luis Rubiales fired him two days before Spain's opening match against Portugal in a move that did neither side much good.

Lopetegui returned home a haunted figure as he was presented at the Santiago Bernabeu just a day later and Spain limped out on penalties to Russia in the last 16 after winning just one match in four.

The decision to take the Madrid job was even more misguided as Lopetegui lasted just 14 games and was sacked again by late October.

Sevilla offered a shot at redemption, but also came with a risk. Monchi's return as sporting director kicked off a huge turnover of the playing staff as 17 new players arrived and 28 departed over the course of the season.

Among those to leave were top scorers Wissam Ben Yedder and Pablo Sarabia and replacing them has proved problematic with Lucas Ocampos and Munir El Haddadi the only players to reach double figures for goals this season.

But Lopetegui has constructed a hard team to beat as is evidenced by a club record run of 20 games without defeat either side of a three-month shutdown due to coronavirus.

Only Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid had a better defensive record in La Liga this season and Bruno Fernandes's penalty in the semi-final is the only goal Sevilla they have conceded in three knockout games since arriving in Germany against Roma, Wolves and Manchester United.

"There are always doubts until you really know the coach," Monchi told Marca.&nbsp;

"Julen has pleasantly surprised me. Everyone told me that he was very professional and he's won me over. When I see someone like him I fall in love, so I'm very happy to work with him."

The team-spirit Lopetegui has fostered was clearly on show during the semi-final as Sevilla rode their luck, but showed no little heart to beat United 2-1 with a fraction of the budget of the English giants.

Despite the empty stands in Cologne, Sevilla were roared on by an enthusiastic crowd of substitutes, team directors and staff compared to the largely silent and bemused United contingent.

"We know we have created our own strong and loud support," said Lopetegui of the encouragement from the sidelines.

"It was been a difficult but also a beautiful year," he added on a first season in Seville that is now into its 13th month.

"The team has had the possibility to grow, overcoming obstacles, because of their hard work, solidarity and team spirit."

Sevilla will need to be the better unit again in Friday's final against another European giant with better individuals in Inter Milan.

But after five wins in five previous finals, Sevilla can never be underestimated in the Europa League.

Two years on from the embarrassment of being sacked as coach of his country on the eve of a World Cup, Julen Lopetegui has rebuilt his reputation to take Sevilla back to a sixth Europa League final in 14 years.

Two years on from the embarrassment of being sacked as coach of his country on the eve of a World Cup, Julen Lopetegui has rebuilt his reputation to take Sevilla back to a sixth Europa League final in 14 years. The Spaniards' success in Europe's second-tier competition is no longer a surprise despite the continued churn of players and coaches without the wealth of the continent's superclubs. However, a return to the Europa League final for the first time since 2016 on top of a first top-four finish in La Liga for three seasons, is sweet vindication for Lopetegui after a nightmare few months in 2018 threatened to derail his coaching career. Hopes were high that the former Real Madrid and Barcelona goalkeeper could produce one last hurrah from Spain's golden generation that had won three major tournaments from 2008 to 2012 ahead of the World Cup in Russia. Spain were unbeaten in Lopetegui's 20 games in charge of the national team, including impressive wins over Argentina, Italy, Belgium and eventual world champions France. But he paid a heavy price for his own misjudgement and the politics of Spanish football as he accepted the role as Zinedine Zidane's successor at Real Madrid days before the tournament got underway. Furious Spanish federation president Luis Rubiales fired him two days before Spain's opening match against Portugal in a move that did neither side much good. Lopetegui returned home a haunted figure as he was presented at the Santiago Bernabeu just a day later and Spain limped out on penalties to Russia in the last 16 after winning just one match in four. The decision to take the Madrid job was even more misguided as Lopetegui lasted just 14 games and was sacked again by late October. Sevilla offered a shot at redemption, but also came with a risk. Monchi's return as sporting director kicked off a huge turnover of the playing staff as 17 new players arrived and 28 departed over the course of the season. Among those to leave were top scorers Wissam Ben Yedder and Pablo Sarabia and replacing them has proved problematic with Lucas Ocampos and Munir El Haddadi the only players to reach double figures for goals this season. But Lopetegui has constructed a hard team to beat as is evidenced by a club record run of 20 games without defeat either side of a three-month shutdown due to coronavirus. Only Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid had a better defensive record in La Liga this season and Bruno Fernandes's penalty in the semi-final is the only goal Sevilla they have conceded in three knockout games since arriving in Germany against Roma, Wolves and Manchester United. "There are always doubts until you really know the coach," Monchi told Marca. "Julen has pleasantly surprised me. Everyone told me that he was very professional and he's won me over. When I see someone like him I fall in love, so I'm very happy to work with him." The team-spirit Lopetegui has fostered was clearly on show during the semi-final as Sevilla rode their luck, but showed no little heart to beat United 2-1 with a fraction of the budget of the English giants. Despite the empty stands in Cologne, Sevilla were roared on by an enthusiastic crowd of substitutes, team directors and staff compared to the largely silent and bemused United contingent. "We know we have created our own strong and loud support," said Lopetegui of the encouragement from the sidelines. "It was been a difficult but also a beautiful year," he added on a first season in Seville that is now into its 13th month. "The team has had the possibility to grow, overcoming obstacles, because of their hard work, solidarity and team spirit." Sevilla will need to be the better unit again in Friday's final against another European giant with better individuals in Inter Milan. But after five wins in five previous finals, Sevilla can never be underestimated in the Europa League.

Discarded by Spain and Real Madrid, Lopetegui finds salvation at Sevilla

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

Flick's side made a shaky start on Wednesday in Lisbon as Lyon captain Memphis Depay fired wide, then Karl Ekambi hit the post before man-of-the-match Serge Gnabry settled Bayern's nerves with two first-half goals.

Robert Lewandowski headed home his 15th Champions League goal of the season two minutes from the final whistle as Bayern claimed a record-equalling 10th straight win in Europe.

"Lyon fought hard and made things hard for us, we know PSG have quick players and we will have to organise our defence differently," said Flick, whose side scored 42 goals in 10 Champions League games to reach the final.

"Paris are a great team, they fought their way into the semi-final and then reached the final.

"We know they have quick players, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure."

Having already lifted the Bundesliga shield and German Cup this season, Bayern captain Manuel Neuer is relishing the chance of also lifting the Champions League trophy.

Victory over PSG would seal only the second treble in Bayern's history after their 2013 triple success.

Neuer expects a busy night against a star-studded PSG attack boasting Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel di Maria.

"Paris has an attack with big names. There are always a lot of goals with Bayern and PSG," said Germany goalkeeper Neuer.

"Two great teams in this final, it will be a good game for the fans to watch.

"We are very happy to be in the final.

He added: "The difference compared to 2013 team is that the squad is larger.

"We won in 2013 with fewer players, now we have a fantastic group with a good atmosphere in the squad. There are also no killjoys."

For Canadian teenager Alphonso Davies, reaching the Champions League final at the age of 19 is a "dream come true."

Having already helped inflict misery on his hero Lionel Messi in the 8-2 quarter-final drubbing of Barcelona, Davies is delighted to now face Neymar and PSG.

"It's everything you can ask for," said Davies.

"It feels good, everyone's happy and playing well."

Davies says his Bayern team-mates "have basically won everything, but they're still excited. They're still hungry to win this one."

The teenager expects the goals to fly come Sunday.

"Paris are a good team and it's going to be a good game, there's going to be goals in it," he said.

"This is what you dream of as a footballer – playing against the best in Europe. I'm excited."

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon.

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick says the treble-chasing Germans need to tighten their defence against Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday's Champions League final after some nervous early moments in their 3-0 semi-final win over Lyon. Flick's side made a shaky start on Wednesday in Lisbon as Lyon captain Memphis Depay fired wide, then Karl Ekambi hit the post before man-of-the-match Serge Gnabry settled Bayern's nerves with two first-half goals. Robert Lewandowski headed home his 15th Champions League goal of the season two minutes from the final whistle as Bayern claimed a record-equalling 10th straight win in Europe. "Lyon fought hard and made things hard for us, we know PSG have quick players and we will have to organise our defence differently," said Flick, whose side scored 42 goals in 10 Champions League games to reach the final. "Paris are a great team, they fought their way into the semi-final and then reached the final. "We know they have quick players, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure." Having already lifted the Bundesliga shield and German Cup this season, Bayern captain Manuel Neuer is relishing the chance of also lifting the Champions League trophy. Victory over PSG would seal only the second treble in Bayern's history after their 2013 triple success. Neuer expects a busy night against a star-studded PSG attack boasting Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Angel di Maria. "Paris has an attack with big names. There are always a lot of goals with Bayern and PSG," said Germany goalkeeper Neuer. "Two great teams in this final, it will be a good game for the fans to watch. "We are very happy to be in the final. He added: "The difference compared to 2013 team is that the squad is larger. "We won in 2013 with fewer players, now we have a fantastic group with a good atmosphere in the squad. There are also no killjoys." For Canadian teenager Alphonso Davies, reaching the Champions League final at the age of 19 is a "dream come true." Having already helped inflict misery on his hero Lionel Messi in the 8-2 quarter-final drubbing of Barcelona, Davies is delighted to now face Neymar and PSG. "It's everything you can ask for," said Davies. "It feels good, everyone's happy and playing well." Davies says his Bayern team-mates "have basically won everything, but they're still excited. They're still hungry to win this one." The teenager expects the goals to fly come Sunday. "Paris are a good team and it's going to be a good game, there's going to be goals in it," he said. "This is what you dream of as a footballer – playing against the best in Europe. I'm excited."

Bayern must tighten defence against PSG in Champions League final, warns Flick

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Lyon squandered two golden opportunities to go ahead early on at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, through Memphis Depay and Karl Toko-Ekambi.

Within seconds of the latter miss, Gnabry had blasted Bayern into an 18th-minute lead in stunning style, and the Germany winger scored again just after the half-hour mark.

Gnabry, who scored four times in Bayern's 7-2 annihilation of Tottenham Hotspur in the group stage, has now scored nine in nine appearances in this season's competition.

Lewandowski's inevitable goal, his 55th of the season, came two minutes from time.

Bayern as a team have 42 goals in 10 Champions League outings, with this more modest victory following their 8-2 trouncing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals.

"We knew this would be a hard game," insisted coach Hansi Flick. "We needed a bit of luck to get through the opening stages before Serge made the difference."

They have won all their European matches this season but the biggest test awaits, against a PSG side who will be a step up from what they faced here.

Lyon came seventh in the last French season, which was shortened because of the coronavirus pandemic. PSG won Ligue 1 and crushed RB Leipzig 3-0 in their semi-final.

It promises to be an enthralling final, even in the bizarre atmosphere behind closed doors in Portugal's capital.

"For me, it's a dream come true. Playing in the UEFA Champions League and making it to the final. It's everything you can ask for," Bayern's Alphonso Davies told BT Sport.&nbsp;

The German champions will be looking to win their sixth European Cup, seven years on from their last Champions League triumph. It will be their 11th final altogether, against a club appearing in their first ever final.

For Lyon there will be disappointment as their second semi-final appearance ends the same way as their first, a defeat by Bayern in 2010.

<h2>- Step too far -</h2>

This was a step too far for Rudi Garcia's side following their shock successes against Juventus and Manchester City.

Now they must rouse themselves for a new Ligue 1 season which is just about to start, but there will be no European football at all for Lyon in 2020/21, for the first time in 24 years.

They would have had to win this Champions League just to qualify again, and to be fair they will wonder what might have been in this semi-final had they taken at least one of those early chances.

"Congratulations to Bayern. I don't think they were unbeatable," said Toko-Ekambi. "We had chances to score and we played well."

Bayern certainly take risks with their incredibly high line, inviting opponents to try to get in behind them.

Lyon's chance arrived inside the fourth minute. Maxence Caqueret intercepted a Thiago Alcantara pass, looked up and released Depay. The Dutchman went round Manuel Neuer but, with the angle tightening, he could only find the side-netting with his shot.

<h2>- Astonishing transformation -</h2>

The next big let-off for the Bavarians came when Leo Dubois sent a pass in behind for Toko-Ekambi. He got his shot away at the second attempt but hit the upright.

Just 49 seconds after that, Lyon were behind.

Gnabry cut in from the right into the middle before letting fly from just inside the box. His thumping left-foot strike gave Anthony Lopes no chance.

It was a different game after that and Gnabry made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute.

He stole possession in the Lyon half and laid the ball out to Ivan Perisic. The Croatian's low cross should have been converted by Lewandowski. Lopes saved from him but Gnabry converted the follow-up.

Substitute Philippe Coutinho had a late effort disallowed for offside, before Lewandowski made it 3-0 as he headed home Joshua Kimmich's free-kick.

Bayern now have 20 consecutive victories and are unbeaten in 29 matches, a run that began last December. Just a few weeks before that Bayern were in a mess, having sacked coach Niko Kovac.

The transformation under Flick has been astonishing and they are now 90 minutes away from ending this longest of seasons with a treble.

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Serge Gnabry struck a first-half brace and Robert Lewandowski also scored as a ruthless Bayern Munich taught Lyon a harsh lesson in their Champions League semi-final in Lisbon on Wednesday, winning 3-0 to set up a tantalising final against Paris Saint-Germain. Lyon squandered two golden opportunities to go ahead early on at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, through Memphis Depay and Karl Toko-Ekambi. Within seconds of the latter miss, Gnabry had blasted Bayern into an 18th-minute lead in stunning style, and the Germany winger scored again just after the half-hour mark. Gnabry, who scored four times in Bayern's 7-2 annihilation of Tottenham Hotspur in the group stage, has now scored nine in nine appearances in this season's competition. Lewandowski's inevitable goal, his 55th of the season, came two minutes from time. Bayern as a team have 42 goals in 10 Champions League outings, with this more modest victory following their 8-2 trouncing of Barcelona in the quarter-finals. "We knew this would be a hard game," insisted coach Hansi Flick. "We needed a bit of luck to get through the opening stages before Serge made the difference." They have won all their European matches this season but the biggest test awaits, against a PSG side who will be a step up from what they faced here. Lyon came seventh in the last French season, which was shortened because of the coronavirus pandemic. PSG won Ligue 1 and crushed RB Leipzig 3-0 in their semi-final. It promises to be an enthralling final, even in the bizarre atmosphere behind closed doors in Portugal's capital. "For me, it's a dream come true. Playing in the UEFA Champions League and making it to the final. It's everything you can ask for," Bayern's Alphonso Davies told BT Sport. The German champions will be looking to win their sixth European Cup, seven years on from their last Champions League triumph. It will be their 11th final altogether, against a club appearing in their first ever final. For Lyon there will be disappointment as their second semi-final appearance ends the same way as their first, a defeat by Bayern in 2010. - Step too far - This was a step too far for Rudi Garcia's side following their shock successes against Juventus and Manchester City. Now they must rouse themselves for a new Ligue 1 season which is just about to start, but there will be no European football at all for Lyon in 2020/21, for the first time in 24 years. They would have had to win this Champions League just to qualify again, and to be fair they will wonder what might have been in this semi-final had they taken at least one of those early chances. "Congratulations to Bayern. I don't think they were unbeatable," said Toko-Ekambi. "We had chances to score and we played well." Bayern certainly take risks with their incredibly high line, inviting opponents to try to get in behind them. Lyon's chance arrived inside the fourth minute. Maxence Caqueret intercepted a Thiago Alcantara pass, looked up and released Depay. The Dutchman went round Manuel Neuer but, with the angle tightening, he could only find the side-netting with his shot. - Astonishing transformation - The next big let-off for the Bavarians came when Leo Dubois sent a pass in behind for Toko-Ekambi. He got his shot away at the second attempt but hit the upright. Just 49 seconds after that, Lyon were behind. Gnabry cut in from the right into the middle before letting fly from just inside the box. His thumping left-foot strike gave Anthony Lopes no chance. It was a different game after that and Gnabry made it 2-0 in the 33rd minute. He stole possession in the Lyon half and laid the ball out to Ivan Perisic. The Croatian's low cross should have been converted by Lewandowski. Lopes saved from him but Gnabry converted the follow-up. Substitute Philippe Coutinho had a late effort disallowed for offside, before Lewandowski made it 3-0 as he headed home Joshua Kimmich's free-kick. Bayern now have 20 consecutive victories and are unbeaten in 29 matches, a run that began last December. Just a few weeks before that Bayern were in a mess, having sacked coach Niko Kovac. The transformation under Flick has been astonishing and they are now 90 minutes away from ending this longest of seasons with a treble.

Gnabry and Lewandowski fire ruthless Bayern into Champions League final

Antonio Conte will head into the Europa League final aiming to win a major trophy in his first season in charge of Inter Milan and extend the barren spell of his Sevilla rival Julen Lopetegui when they clash in Cologne on Friday.

The difference in fortunes could not be starker as Conte won three successive Serie A titles with Juventus followed by the 2016-17 Premier League title with Chelsea, while Lopetegui has been unable to claim a single honour at senior level as coach.

The former Rayo Vallecano goalkeeper oversaw the longest trophy-less spell at Portuguese side Porto between 2014-2016 before taking charge of Spain, where he was dismissed a week before the 2018 World Cup having steered his country to the finals.

Lopetegui made way for Fernando Hierro after it was announced he’d be taking over at Real Madrid in August 2018. He only held on to the job until October that year after suffering a 5-1 La Liga thrashing by Barcelona.

The current season finally brought some joy to the 53-year-old, who guided Sevilla to a top-four finish in La Liga and then reached the Europa League final with a combative side whose work rate exceeds its talent.

Sevilla and Inter have won eight titles in Europe’s second-tier competition between them, with the Spanish side chasing a record-extending sixth trophy against their in-form rivals.

Lopetegui conceded denying Inter would be a tall order.

“The team has a very characteristic way of playing, all Conte teams have it,” he told Sevilla’s official website http://www.sevillafc.es.

“It is not easy for such high level players to play in such a peculiar collective way. The squad is full of players with a talent, they will oblige us to play an extraordinary game.

“They are at a magnificent level, a team made to play Champions League football who finished just one point off (Italian champions) Juventus in Serie A, they have magnificent players and an experienced manager.”

Sevilla will need to draw inspiration from their gritty 2-1 win over Manchester United, with Inter strikers Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez in devastating form as they ripped apart Shaktar Donestk 5-0 in the other semi-final.

Conte acknowledged the goal-hungry pair had developed a lethal partnership since Lukaku joined from United last year despite their individual appetites.

“It was inevitable that, working hard and working together, a connection between the two would develop,” Conte told UEFA’s official website.

“They have the typical selfishness of all strikers, but they also work hard to help the others score.

“We’re playing a team with more experience and the most trophies in this competition in the last decade. It’s a final and only the best teams reach the final, so we need to show that we’re the best if we want to win the trophy.”

Antonio Conte will head into the Europa League final aiming to win a major trophy in his first season in charge of Inter Milan and extend the barren spell of his Sevilla rival Julen Lopetegui when they clash in Cologne on Friday.

Antonio Conte will head into the Europa League final aiming to win a major trophy in his first season in charge of Inter Milan and extend the barren spell of his Sevilla rival Julen Lopetegui when they clash in Cologne on Friday. The difference in fortunes could not be starker as Conte won three successive Serie A titles with Juventus followed by the 2016-17 Premier League title with Chelsea, while Lopetegui has been unable to claim a single honour at senior level as coach. The former Rayo Vallecano goalkeeper oversaw the longest trophy-less spell at Portuguese side Porto between 2014-2016 before taking charge of Spain, where he was dismissed a week before the 2018 World Cup having steered his country to the finals. Lopetegui made way for Fernando Hierro after it was announced he’d be taking over at Real Madrid in August 2018. He only held on to the job until October that year after suffering a 5-1 La Liga thrashing by Barcelona. The current season finally brought some joy to the 53-year-old, who guided Sevilla to a top-four finish in La Liga and then reached the Europa League final with a combative side whose work rate exceeds its talent. Sevilla and Inter have won eight titles in Europe’s second-tier competition between them, with the Spanish side chasing a record-extending sixth trophy against their in-form rivals. Lopetegui conceded denying Inter would be a tall order. “The team has a very characteristic way of playing, all Conte teams have it,” he told Sevilla’s official website http://www.sevillafc.es. “It is not easy for such high level players to play in such a peculiar collective way. The squad is full of players with a talent, they will oblige us to play an extraordinary game. “They are at a magnificent level, a team made to play Champions League football who finished just one point off (Italian champions) Juventus in Serie A, they have magnificent players and an experienced manager.” Sevilla will need to draw inspiration from their gritty 2-1 win over Manchester United, with Inter strikers Romelu Lukaku and Lautaro Martinez in devastating form as they ripped apart Shaktar Donestk 5-0 in the other semi-final. Conte acknowledged the goal-hungry pair had developed a lethal partnership since Lukaku joined from United last year despite their individual appetites. “It was inevitable that, working hard and working together, a connection between the two would develop,” Conte told UEFA’s official website. “They have the typical selfishness of all strikers, but they also work hard to help the others score. “We’re playing a team with more experience and the most trophies in this competition in the last decade. It’s a final and only the best teams reach the final, so we need to show that we’re the best if we want to win the trophy.”

Conte out to extend Lopetegui's trophy jinx

FIFA's ethics committee on Wednesday decided to close its case against president Gianni Infantino, who is facing a criminal probe in Switzerland over suspected collusion with the country's top prosecutor.&nbsp;

"After examining the relevant documentation and evidence, the chairperson of the investigatory chamber has decided to file the complaint and close the case due to the evident lack of a prima facie case regarding any alleged breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said in a statement.

Infantino, in charge of world football's governing body since 2016, is the subject of an investigation by the Swiss prosecutor over suspected collusion between him and Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber, who resigned last month over his handling of a corruption investigation targeting FIFA.

FIFA's investigatory chamber had opened a preliminary investigation into Infantino following reports of alleged ethics breaches, "including the booking by FIFA of a private flight from Suriname to Geneva and meetings between the FIFA President with Michael Lauber."

But the independent judicial body determined there was insufficient evidence to warrant further pursuing the case.

"Based on the information available to date, no aspect of the conduct analysed constitutes a violation of the FIFA regulations – some aspects do not even fall within the provisions of the FIFA Code of Ethics, or justify the adoption of any kind of measure, including that of a provisional suspension," the statement added.

Infantino had already insisted he had "nothing to hide" despite Swiss prosecutors launching a criminal probe against him.

In a letter sent to FIFA's 211 members Infantino said there were no "factual grounds for the opening of a criminal investigation".

Infantino and Lauber are said to have held a series of secret meetings in 2016 and 2017, but the FIFA head said the meetings were about restoring "public trust in our institution" after a series of scandals.

Infantino claims that those meetings "were in no way secret and most certainly not illegal".

An anti-corruption lawyer representing Infantino said earlier Wednesday he believed the case would be dismissed.

Jean-Pierre Mean, an anti-corruption specialist hired by FIFA on behalf of Infantino in May, told AFP: "There is nothing wrong with meeting with a lawyer, even informally. It is quite usual and absolutely not criminal."

The procedure against Infantino, Mean continued, "only mentions an anonymous complaint".

"We still haven't seen it. We will have access to the file when Mr. Infantino is heard."

FIFA also revealed Wednesday the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on its revenue was expected to remain "comparatively low", with much of the organisation's commercial rights having already been sold.

It predicted a positive result of $100 million (83 million euros) in its revised 2019-22 budget, with the cancellation of next year's Confederations Cup and postponement of the revamped Club World Cup partially offset by other revenue streams.

FIFA's ethics committee on Wednesday decided to close its case against president Gianni Infantino, who is facing a criminal probe in Switzerland over suspected collusion with the country's top prosecutor.

FIFA's ethics committee on Wednesday decided to close its case against president Gianni Infantino, who is facing a criminal probe in Switzerland over suspected collusion with the country's top prosecutor. "After examining the relevant documentation and evidence, the chairperson of the investigatory chamber has decided to file the complaint and close the case due to the evident lack of a prima facie case regarding any alleged breach of the FIFA Code of Ethics," FIFA said in a statement. Infantino, in charge of world football's governing body since 2016, is the subject of an investigation by the Swiss prosecutor over suspected collusion between him and Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber, who resigned last month over his handling of a corruption investigation targeting FIFA. FIFA's investigatory chamber had opened a preliminary investigation into Infantino following reports of alleged ethics breaches, "including the booking by FIFA of a private flight from Suriname to Geneva and meetings between the FIFA President with Michael Lauber." But the independent judicial body determined there was insufficient evidence to warrant further pursuing the case. "Based on the information available to date, no aspect of the conduct analysed constitutes a violation of the FIFA regulations – some aspects do not even fall within the provisions of the FIFA Code of Ethics, or justify the adoption of any kind of measure, including that of a provisional suspension," the statement added. Infantino had already insisted he had "nothing to hide" despite Swiss prosecutors launching a criminal probe against him. In a letter sent to FIFA's 211 members Infantino said there were no "factual grounds for the opening of a criminal investigation". Infantino and Lauber are said to have held a series of secret meetings in 2016 and 2017, but the FIFA head said the meetings were about restoring "public trust in our institution" after a series of scandals. Infantino claims that those meetings "were in no way secret and most certainly not illegal". An anti-corruption lawyer representing Infantino said earlier Wednesday he believed the case would be dismissed. Jean-Pierre Mean, an anti-corruption specialist hired by FIFA on behalf of Infantino in May, told AFP: "There is nothing wrong with meeting with a lawyer, even informally. It is quite usual and absolutely not criminal." The procedure against Infantino, Mean continued, "only mentions an anonymous complaint". "We still haven't seen it. We will have access to the file when Mr. Infantino is heard." FIFA also revealed Wednesday the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on its revenue was expected to remain "comparatively low", with much of the organisation's commercial rights having already been sold. It predicted a positive result of $100 million (83 million euros) in its revised 2019-22 budget, with the cancellation of next year's Confederations Cup and postponement of the revamped Club World Cup partially offset by other revenue streams.

FIFA ethics committee drops Infantino case

After four thrilling quarter-finals, the upsets stopped at the last four stage in the Champions League, setting up Sunday’s final between Bayern Munich and Paris St Germain.

Bayern, five-times winners, are back in the final for the first time since 2013 after ending a streak of four losses in the semi-final stage with Wednesday’s comfortable 3-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais.

PSG are in the big game for the first time, having struggled to translate their dominance of the French league into a real challenge in Europe until wins here over Italian club Atalanta and Germany’s RB Leipzig secured their place.

For the first time since 1998, the Champions League final will feature two teams who entered the competition as domestic champions, a throwback to the day’s of the old European Cup when only a country’s title winners were allowed to enter.

While no fans will be present to witness the clash at the Estadio da Luz, home of Portuguese club Benfica, millions across the globe will watch the game which is the most-watched annual sports event in the world.

And there is plenty of interest for those outside of Germany and France.

PSG’s attack is led by Brazil’s biggest star Neymar, the exciting French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and the crafty Argentine winger Angel Di Maria.

It will be fascinating to see if the French side can expose Bayern’s high defensive line which was breached several times by a wasteful Lyon.

“Paris are a great team,” said Bayern coach Hansi Flick, “We will analyse some things, we know they have quick players. We will look to organise our defence, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure.”

Bayern’s top scorer is Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, who leads the tournament’s scoring charts with 15 goals this season and has found the target 55 times in all competitions.

The club’s 19-year-old left back Alphonso Davies has been the most exciting young player in the tournament and was born in a refugee camp in Ghana before moving to Canada, who he represents at national team level.

On a tactical level, the final pits two German coaches against each other for only the second time in the tournament’s history.

PSG’s Thomas Tuchel, the ex-Borussia Dortmund coach, has managed to give the French champion’s expensively assembled squad the balance and steel they have lacked in recent years.

Flick only took over as Bayern coach in November but has had an astonishing impact. Since mid-December, Bayern have enjoyed 28 wins and a solitary draw, scoring 97 goals and conceding just 22.

Bayern, who thrashed Barcelona 8-2 in their quarter-final, also have experience on their side.

The Bavarians have already featured in the European Cup or Champions League final on ten occasions, winning their fifth title in 2013.

PSG have only reached the last four once before and their best performance in Europe came in the old Cup Winner’s Cup which they won in 1996.

After four thrilling quarter-finals, the upsets stopped at the last four stage in the Champions League, setting up Sunday’s final between Bayern Munich and Paris St Germain.

After four thrilling quarter-finals, the upsets stopped at the last four stage in the Champions League, setting up Sunday’s final between Bayern Munich and Paris St Germain. Bayern, five-times winners, are back in the final for the first time since 2013 after ending a streak of four losses in the semi-final stage with Wednesday’s comfortable 3-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais. PSG are in the big game for the first time, having struggled to translate their dominance of the French league into a real challenge in Europe until wins here over Italian club Atalanta and Germany’s RB Leipzig secured their place. For the first time since 1998, the Champions League final will feature two teams who entered the competition as domestic champions, a throwback to the day’s of the old European Cup when only a country’s title winners were allowed to enter. While no fans will be present to witness the clash at the Estadio da Luz, home of Portuguese club Benfica, millions across the globe will watch the game which is the most-watched annual sports event in the world. And there is plenty of interest for those outside of Germany and France. PSG’s attack is led by Brazil’s biggest star Neymar, the exciting French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and the crafty Argentine winger Angel Di Maria. It will be fascinating to see if the French side can expose Bayern’s high defensive line which was breached several times by a wasteful Lyon. “Paris are a great team,” said Bayern coach Hansi Flick, “We will analyse some things, we know they have quick players. We will look to organise our defence, but we know our biggest strength is putting our opponents under pressure.” Bayern’s top scorer is Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, who leads the tournament’s scoring charts with 15 goals this season and has found the target 55 times in all competitions. The club’s 19-year-old left back Alphonso Davies has been the most exciting young player in the tournament and was born in a refugee camp in Ghana before moving to Canada, who he represents at national team level. On a tactical level, the final pits two German coaches against each other for only the second time in the tournament’s history. PSG’s Thomas Tuchel, the ex-Borussia Dortmund coach, has managed to give the French champion’s expensively assembled squad the balance and steel they have lacked in recent years. Flick only took over as Bayern coach in November but has had an astonishing impact. Since mid-December, Bayern have enjoyed 28 wins and a solitary draw, scoring 97 goals and conceding just 22. Bayern, who thrashed Barcelona 8-2 in their quarter-final, also have experience on their side. The Bavarians have already featured in the European Cup or Champions League final on ten occasions, winning their fifth title in 2013. PSG have only reached the last four once before and their best performance in Europe came in the old Cup Winner’s Cup which they won in 1996.

A true final of champions awaits in Lisbon

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final.&nbsp;

“What we need to do is give a different image to what we gave against Bayern, that’s not the Barca we or the fans want to see,” Koeman said at his presentation after signing a two-year deal with Barca.

“You have to be very happy wear the Barca shirt. You have to show that with commitment, professionalism, with everything you have inside. If we do that, the image will be totally different to what it was last week.”

Koeman, who helped Barcelona win their first European Cup in 1992 during a golden six-year-spell in Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team, quit his role as the Netherlands coach to take the charge at Nou Camp.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-2020-21-fixtures-when-do-the-big-six-lock-horns-321956" hreflang="en">Premier League 2020-21 fixtures: When do the 'Big Six' lock horns?</a>

The Dutchman said that the Barcelona was his home and dream while admitting it is not the easiest of time to get back to his former club, who suffered their first trophy-less season in 12 years.&nbsp;

“We’re going to work very hard to build a strong team but we’ll have to make changes because the image of the other day is not what we want. We’ll have to work hard to recover our prestige,” he said.

“It’s a big challenge and it won’t be easy because Barca always demands the best of you, which is the way it should be.

“Barca are still the biggest club in the world. Now we have to work hard to make sure Barca gets back to where they should be. There is enough quality in the team to demand the best results and to win trophies.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/demba-ba-urges-football-to-stand-up-over-chinas-uighurs-321867" hreflang="en">Demba Ba urges football to 'stand up' over China's Uighurs</a>

However, Koeman didn’t reveal the name of players who would be shown the door while making it clear he wanted players who were fully committed.&nbsp;

“I don’t want to mention names, we have to look in the club’s best interests and make the best squad possible to try and win games,” he said.

“There are players of a certain age who you can start to doubt, although a player who is 31, 32 or even 33 is not necessarily finished, it all depends on your hunger and whether you want to give everything for the club.

“I only want to work with players who want to be here, and if they are not happy here then they should say so. I only want people who are going to give everything for Barca.” 
&nbsp;

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final.

New Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has warned that players who show lack of commitment or professionalism will be kicked out of the club as he promised to lead the team back to good days after their 8-2 humiliation by Bayern Munich in UEFA Champions League quarter-final. “What we need to do is give a different image to what we gave against Bayern, that’s not the Barca we or the fans want to see,” Koeman said at his presentation after signing a two-year deal with Barca. “You have to be very happy wear the Barca shirt. You have to show that with commitment, professionalism, with everything you have inside. If we do that, the image will be totally different to what it was last week.” Koeman, who helped Barcelona win their first European Cup in 1992 during a golden six-year-spell in Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team, quit his role as the Netherlands coach to take the charge at Nou Camp. ALSO READ: Premier League 2020-21 fixtures: When do the 'Big Six' lock horns? The Dutchman said that the Barcelona was his home and dream while admitting it is not the easiest of time to get back to his former club, who suffered their first trophy-less season in 12 years. “We’re going to work very hard to build a strong team but we’ll have to make changes because the image of the other day is not what we want. We’ll have to work hard to recover our prestige,” he said. “It’s a big challenge and it won’t be easy because Barca always demands the best of you, which is the way it should be. “Barca are still the biggest club in the world. Now we have to work hard to make sure Barca gets back to where they should be. There is enough quality in the team to demand the best results and to win trophies.” ALSO READ: Demba Ba urges football to 'stand up' over China's Uighurs However, Koeman didn’t reveal the name of players who would be shown the door while making it clear he wanted players who were fully committed. “I don’t want to mention names, we have to look in the club’s best interests and make the best squad possible to try and win games,” he said. “There are players of a certain age who you can start to doubt, although a player who is 31, 32 or even 33 is not necessarily finished, it all depends on your hunger and whether you want to give everything for the club. “I only want to work with players who want to be here, and if they are not happy here then they should say so. I only want people who are going to give everything for Barca.”

Show commitment or leave: Ronald Koeman promises to revive Barcelona

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Thursday announced the fixture and complete schedule for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. While Manchester United and Manchester City have been given an added break due to their participation in the Europa League and Champions League this season, all eyes are on the encounters when the ‘Big Six’ will take on each other.

When is the Manchester Derby? When is the Liverpool vs Man City fixture? When is the North London Derby? When will Jose Mourinho’s Spurs take on his former club Manchester United and Chelsea? A lot of questions were answered as soon as the fixtures for the 2020-21 season were revealed on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-announce-fixtures-for-2020-21-season-here-is-full-schedule-list-321885" hreflang="en">Premier League announce fixtures for 2020-21 season: Here is full schedule list</a>&nbsp;

<h2>‘Big Six’ full schedule and dates</h2>

(Dates subject to change due to TV scheduling)

<ul>
	<li>19 September: Chelsea v Liverpool</li>
	<li>26 September: Liverpool v Arsenal</li>
	<li>3 October: Man Utd v Tottenham</li>
	<li>17 October: Man City v Arsenal</li>
	<li>24 October: Man Utd v Chelsea</li>
	<li>31 October: Man Utd v Arsenal</li>
	<li>7 November: Man City v Liverpool</li>
	<li>21 November: Tottenham v Man City</li>
	<li>28 November: Chelsea v Tottenham</li>
	<li>5 December: Tottenham v Arsenal</li>
	<li>12 December: Man Utd v Man City</li>
	<li>16 December: Liverpool v Tottenham</li>
	<li>26 December: Arsenal v Chelsea</li>
	<li>2 January: Chelsea v Man City</li>
	<li>16 January: Liverpool v Man Utd</li>
	<li>27 January: Tottenham v Liverpool</li>
	<li>30 January: Arsenal v Man Utd</li>
	<li>3 February: Tottenham v Chelsea</li>
	<li>6 February: Liverpool v Man City</li>
	<li>13 February: Man City v Tottenham</li>
	<li>20 February: Arsenal v Man City</li>
	<li>27 February: Chelsea v Man Utd</li>
	<li>6 March: Man City v Man Utd</li>
	<li>13 March: Arsenal v Tottenham</li>
	<li>3 April: Arsenal v Liverpool</li>
	<li>10 April: Tottenham v Man Utd</li>
	<li>1 May: Man Utd v Liverpool</li>
	<li>8 May: Man City v Chelsea</li>
	<li>12 May: Chelsea v Arsenal</li>
</ul>

Can Liverpool defend their Premier League triumph or will there be a new champion in England’s top-flight? 
&nbsp;

The Premier League on Thursday announced the fixture and complete schedule for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. While Manchester United and Manchester City have been given an added break due to their participation in the Europa League and Champions League this season, all eyes are on the encounters when the ‘Big Six’ will take on each other.

The Premier League on Thursday announced the fixture and complete schedule for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. While Manchester United and Manchester City have been given an added break due to their participation in the Europa League and Champions League this season, all eyes are on the encounters when the ‘Big Six’ will take on each other. When is the Manchester Derby? When is the Liverpool vs Man City fixture? When is the North London Derby? When will Jose Mourinho’s Spurs take on his former club Manchester United and Chelsea? A lot of questions were answered as soon as the fixtures for the 2020-21 season were revealed on Thursday. ALSO READ: Premier League announce fixtures for 2020-21 season: Here is full schedule list ‘Big Six’ full schedule and dates (Dates subject to change due to TV scheduling) 19 September: Chelsea v Liverpool 26 September: Liverpool v Arsenal 3 October: Man Utd v Tottenham 17 October: Man City v Arsenal 24 October: Man Utd v Chelsea 31 October: Man Utd v Arsenal 7 November: Man City v Liverpool 21 November: Tottenham v Man City 28 November: Chelsea v Tottenham 5 December: Tottenham v Arsenal 12 December: Man Utd v Man City 16 December: Liverpool v Tottenham 26 December: Arsenal v Chelsea 2 January: Chelsea v Man City 16 January: Liverpool v Man Utd 27 January: Tottenham v Liverpool 30 January: Arsenal v Man Utd 3 February: Tottenham v Chelsea 6 February: Liverpool v Man City 13 February: Man City v Tottenham 20 February: Arsenal v Man City 27 February: Chelsea v Man Utd 6 March: Man City v Man Utd 13 March: Arsenal v Tottenham 3 April: Arsenal v Liverpool 10 April: Tottenham v Man Utd 1 May: Man Utd v Liverpool 8 May: Man City v Chelsea 12 May: Chelsea v Arsenal Can Liverpool defend their Premier League triumph or will there be a new champion in England’s top-flight?

Premier League 2020-21 fixtures: When do the 'Big Six' lock horns?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Thursday announced the full schedule and fixture list for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. Liverpool are set to start their title defense against newly promoted Leeds United whereas Tottenham Hotspur will meet Everton in game week 1.&nbsp;

Manchester United and Manchester City have been allowed extended rest following their campaign in Europa League and Champions League respectively. There are some mouth-watering encounters lined up in the first five gameweeks with a blockbuster Boxing Day also ready to feast the football fans.&nbsp;

<img alt="Premier League " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0e202fa-9967-45c3-8900-3189f7489f48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fixture-Release-Updated.jpg" />

<h2>Here are the Premier League 2020-21 full fixture and schedule (Time in BST):</h2>

<h2>Postponed</h2>

Burnley v Man Utd 
Man City v Aston Villa

<h2>Saturday 12 September</h2>

Crystal Palace v Southampton 
Fulham v Arsenal 
Liverpool v Leeds United 
Spurs v Everton 
West Brom v Leicester City 
West Ham v Newcastle United

<h2>Monday 14 September</h2>

20:00 Brighton v Chelsea 
20:00 Sheffield United v Wolves

<h2>Saturday 19 September</h2>

Arsenal v West Ham 
Aston Villa v Sheffield United 
Chelsea v Liverpool 
Everton v West Brom 
Leeds United v Fulham 
Leicester City v Burnley 
Man Utd v Crystal Palace 
Newcastle United v Brighton 
Southampton v Spurs 
Wolves v Man City

<h2>Saturday 26 September</h2>

Brighton v Man Utd 
Burnley v Southampton 
Crystal Palace v Everton 
Fulham v Aston Villa 
Liverpool v Arsenal 
Man City v Leicester City 
Sheffield United v Leeds United 
Spurs v Newcastle United 
West Brom v Chelsea 
West Ham v Wolves

<h2>Saturday 3 October</h2>

Arsenal v Sheffield United 
Aston Villa v Liverpool 
Chelsea v Crystal Palace 
Everton v Brighton 
Leeds United v Man City 
Leicester City v West Ham 
Man Utd v Spurs 
Newcastle United v Burnley 
Southampton v West Brom 
Wolves v Fulham

<h2>Saturday 17 October</h2>

Chelsea v Southampton 
Crystal Palace v Brighton 
Everton v Liverpool 
Leeds United v Wolves 
Leicester City v Aston Villa 
Man City v Arsenal 
Newcastle United v Man Utd 
Sheffield United v Fulham 
Spurs v West Ham 
West Brom v Burnley

<h2>Saturday 24 October</h2>

Arsenal v Leicester City 
Aston Villa v Leeds United 
Brighton v West Brom 
Burnley v Spurs 
Fulham v Crystal Palace 
Liverpool v Sheffield United 
Man Utd v Chelsea 
Southampton v Everton 
West Ham v Man City 
Wolves v Newcastle United

<h2>Saturday 31 October</h2>

Aston Villa v Southampton 
Burnley v Chelsea 
Fulham v West Brom 
Leeds United v Leicester City 
Liverpool v West Ham 
Man Utd v Arsenal 
Newcastle United v Everton 
Sheffield United v Man City 
Spurs v Brighton 
Wolves v Crystal Palace

<h2>Saturday 7 November</h2>

Arsenal v Aston Villa 
Brighton v Burnley 
Chelsea v Sheffield United 
Crystal Palace v Leeds United 
Everton v Man Utd 
Leicester City v Wolves 
Man City v Liverpool 
Southampton v Newcastle United 
West Brom v Spurs 
West Ham v Fulham

<h2>Saturday 21 November</h2>

Aston Villa v Brighton 
Burnley v Crystal Palace 
Fulham v Everton 
Leeds United v Arsenal 
Liverpool v Leicester City 
Man Utd v West Brom 
Newcastle United v Chelsea 
Sheffield United v West Ham 
Spurs v Man City 
Wolves v Southampton

<h2>Saturday 28 November</h2>

Arsenal v Wolves 
Brighton v Liverpool 
Chelsea v Spurs 
Crystal Palace v Newcastle United 
Everton v Leeds United 
Leicester City v Fulham 
Man City v Burnley 
Southampton v Man Utd 
West Brom v Sheffield United 
West Ham v Aston Villa

<h2>Saturday 5 December</h2>

Aston Villa v Newcastle United 
Brighton v Southampton 
Burnley v Everton 
Chelsea v Leeds United 
Liverpool v Wolves 
Man City v Fulham 
Sheffield United v Leicester City 
Spurs v Arsenal 
West Brom v Crystal Palace 
West Ham v Man Utd

<h2>Saturday 12 December</h2>

Arsenal v Burnley 
Crystal Palace v Spurs 
Everton v Chelsea 
Fulham v Liverpool 
Leeds United v West Ham 
Leicester City v Brighton 
Man Utd v Man City 
Newcastle United v West Brom 
Southampton v Sheffield United 
Wolves v Aston Villa

<h2>Tuesday 15 December</h2>

19:45 Arsenal v Southampton 
19:45 Aston Villa v Burnley 
19:45 Fulham v Brighton 
19:45 Leeds United v Newcastle United 
19:45 Leicester City v Everton 
19:45 Sheffield United v Man Utd 
19:45 West Ham v Crystal Palace 
19:45 Wolves v Chelsea

<h2>Wednesday 16 December</h2>

20:00 Liverpool v Spurs 
20:00 Man City v West Brom

<h2>Saturday 19 December</h2>

Brighton v Sheffield United 
Burnley v Wolves 
Chelsea v West Ham 
Crystal Palace v Liverpool 
Everton v Arsenal 
Man Utd v Leeds United 
Newcastle United v Fulham 
Southampton v Man City 
Spurs v Leicester City 
West Brom v Aston Villa

<h2>Saturday 26 December</h2>

Arsenal v Chelsea 
Aston Villa v Crystal Palace 
Fulham v Southampton 
Leeds United v Burnley 
Leicester City v Man Utd 
Liverpool v West Brom 
Man City v Newcastle United 
Sheffield United v Everton 
West Ham v Brighton 
Wolves v Spurs

<h2>Monday 28 December</h2>

Brighton v Arsenal 
Burnley v Sheffield United 
Chelsea v Aston Villa 
Crystal Palace v Leicester City 
Everton v Man City 
Man Utd v Wolves 
Newcastle United v Liverpool 
Southampton v West Ham 
Spurs v Fulham 
West Brom v Leeds United

<h2>Saturday 2 January</h2>

Brighton v Wolves 
Burnley v Fulham 
Chelsea v Man City 
Crystal Palace v Sheffield United 
Everton v West Ham 
Man Utd v Aston Villa 
Newcastle United v Leicester City 
Southampton v Liverpool 
Spurs v Leeds United 
West Brom v Arsenal

<h2>Tuesday 12 January*</h2>

19:45 Arsenal v Crystal Palace 
19:45 Aston Villa v Spurs 
19:45 Fulham v Man Utd 
19:45 Leeds United v Southampton 
19:45 Leicester City v Chelsea 
19:45 Sheffield United v Newcastle United 
19:45 West Ham v West Brom 
19:45 Wolves v Everton

Wednesday 13 January* 
20:00 Liverpool v Burnley 
20:00 Man City v Brighton

<h2>Saturday 16 January</h2>

Arsenal v Newcastle United 
Aston Villa v Everton 
Fulham v Chelsea 
Leeds United v Brighton 
Leicester City v Southampton 
Liverpool v Man Utd 
Man City v Crystal Palace 
Sheffield United v Spurs 
West Ham v Burnley 
Wolves v West Brom&nbsp;

<h2>Tuesday 26 January</h2>

19:45 Brighton v Fulham 
19:45 Burnley v Aston Villa 
19:45 Everton v Leicester City 
20:00 Man Utd v Sheffield United 
20:00 West Brom v Man City

<h2>Wednesday 27 January</h2>

19:45 Chelsea v Wolves 
19:45 Newcastle United v Leeds United 
19:45 Southampton v Arsenal 
19:45 Spurs v Liverpool 
20:00 Crystal Palace v West Ham

<h2>Saturday 30 January</h2>

Arsenal v Man Utd 
Brighton v Spurs 
Chelsea v Burnley 
Crystal Palace v Wolves 
Everton v Newcastle United 
Leicester City v Leeds United 
Man City v Sheffield United 
Southampton v Aston Villa 
West Brom v Fulham 
West Ham v Liverpool

<h2>Tuesday 2 February&nbsp;</h2>

19:45 Aston Villa v West Ham 
19:45 Burnley v Man City 
19:45 Fulham v Leicester City 
19:45 Leeds United v Everton 
19:45 Sheffield United v West Brom 
19:45 Wolves v Arsenal 
20:00 Man Utd v Southampton

<h2>Wednesday 3 February</h2>

19:45 Newcastle United v Crystal Palace 
19:45 Spurs v Chelsea 
20:00 Liverpool v Brighton

<h2>Saturday 6 February</h2>

Aston Villa v Arsenal 
Burnley v Brighton 
Fulham v West Ham 
Leeds United v Crystal Palace 
Liverpool v Man City 
Man Utd v Everton 
Newcastle United v Southampton 
Sheffield United v Chelsea 
Spurs v West Brom 
Wolves v Leicester City

<h2>Saturday 13 February</h2>

Arsenal v Leeds United 
Brighton v Aston Villa 
Chelsea v Newcastle United 
Crystal Palace v Burnley 
Everton v Fulham 
Leicester City v Liverpool 
Man City v Spurs 
Southampton v Wolves 
West Brom v Man Utd 
West Ham v Sheffield United

<h2>Saturday 20 February</h2>

Arsenal v Man City 
Aston Villa v Leicester City 
Brighton v Crystal Palace 
Burnley v West Brom 
Fulham v Sheffield United 
Liverpool v Everton 
Man Utd v Newcastle United 
Southampton v Chelsea 
West Ham v Spurs 
Wolves v Leeds United

<h2>Saturday 27 February</h2>

Chelsea v Man Utd 
Crystal Palace v Fulham 
Everton v Southampton 
Leeds United v Aston Villa 
Leicester City v Arsenal 
Man City v West Ham 
Newcastle United v Wolves 
Sheffield United v Liverpool 
Spurs v Burnley 
West Brom v Brighton

<h2>Saturday 6 March</h2>

Aston Villa v Wolves 
Brighton v Leicester City 
Burnley v Arsenal 
Chelsea v Everton 
Liverpool v Fulham 
Man City v Man Utd 
Sheffield United v Southampton 
Spurs v Crystal Palace 
West Brom v Newcastle United 
West Ham v Leeds United

<h2>Saturday 13 March</h2>

Arsenal v Spurs 
Crystal Palace v West Brom 
Everton v Burnley 
Fulham v Man City 
Leeds United v Chelsea 
Leicester City v Sheffield United 
Man Utd v West Ham 
Newcastle United v Aston Villa 
Southampton v Brighton 
Wolves v Liverpool

<h2>Saturday 20 March</h2>

Brighton v Newcastle United 
Burnley v Leicester City 
Crystal Palace v Man Utd 
Fulham v Leeds United 
Liverpool v Chelsea 
Man City v Wolves 
Sheffield United v Aston Villa 
Spurs v Southampton 
West Brom v Everton 
West Ham v Arsenal

<h2>Saturday 3 April</h2>

Arsenal v Liverpool 
Aston Villa v Fulham 
Chelsea v West Brom 
Everton v Crystal Palace 
Leeds United v Sheffield United 
Leicester City v Man City 
Man Utd v Brighton 
Newcastle United v Spurs 
Southampton v Burnley 
Wolves v West Ham

<h2>Saturday 10 April</h2>

Brighton v Everton 
Burnley v Newcastle United 
Crystal Palace v Chelsea 
Fulham v Wolves 
Liverpool v Aston Villa 
Man City v Leeds United 
Sheffield United v Arsenal 
Spurs v Man Utd 
West Brom v Southampton 
West Ham v Leicester City

<h2>Saturday 17 April</h2>

Arsenal v Fulham 
Aston Villa v Man City 
Chelsea v Brighton 
Everton v Spurs 
Leeds United v Liverpool 
Leicester City v West Brom 
Man Utd v Burnley 
Newcastle United v West Ham 
Southampton v Crystal Palace 
Wolves v Sheffield United

<h2>Saturday 24 April</h2>

Arsenal v Everton 
Aston Villa v West Brom 
Fulham v Spurs 
Leeds United v Man Utd 
Leicester City v Crystal Palace 
Liverpool v Newcastle United 
Man City v Southampton 
Sheffield United v Brighton 
West Ham v Chelsea 
Wolves v Burnley

<h2>Saturday 1 May</h2>

Brighton v Leeds United 
Burnley v West Ham 
Chelsea v Fulham 
Crystal Palace v Man City 
Everton v Aston Villa 
Man Utd v Liverpool 
Newcastle United v Arsenal 
Southampton v Leicester City 
Spurs v Sheffield United 
West Brom v Wolves

<h2>Saturday 8 May</h2>

Arsenal v West Brom 
Aston Villa v Man Utd 
Fulham v Burnley 
Leeds United v Spurs 
Leicester City v Newcastle United 
Liverpool v Southampton 
Man City v Chelsea 
Sheffield United v Crystal Palace 
West Ham v Everton 
Wolves v Brighton

<h2>Tuesday 11 May</h2>

19:45 Brighton v West Ham 
19:45 Burnley v Leeds United 
19:45 Everton v Sheffield United 
20:00 Man Utd v Leicester City 
20:00 West Brom v Liverpool

<h2>Wednesday 12 May</h2>

19:45 Chelsea v Arsenal 
19:45 Newcastle United v Man City 
19:45 Southampton v Fulham 
19:45 Spurs v Wolves&nbsp; 
20:00 Crystal Palace v Aston Villa

<h2>Saturday 15 May</h2>

Brighton v Man City 
Burnley v Liverpool 
Chelsea v Leicester City 
Crystal Palace v Arsenal 
Everton v Wolves 
Man Utd v Fulham 
Newcastle United v Sheffield United 
Southampton v Leeds United 
Spurs v Aston Villa 
West Brom v West Ham

<h2>Sunday 23 May</h2>

16:00 Arsenal v Brighton 
16:00 Aston Villa v Chelsea 
16:00 Fulham v Newcastle United 
16:00 Leeds United v West Brom 
16:00 Leicester City v Spurs 
16:00 Liverpool v Crystal Palace 
16:00 Man City v Everton 
16:00 Sheffield United v Burnley 
16:00 West Ham v Southampton 
16:00 Wolves v Manchester United

Premier League on Thursday announced the full schedule and fixture list for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. Liverpool are set to start their title defense against newly promoted Leeds United whereas Tottenham Hotspur will meet Everton in game week 1.

Premier League on Thursday announced the full schedule and fixture list for the 2020-21 season starting September 12. Liverpool are set to start their title defense against newly promoted Leeds United whereas Tottenham Hotspur will meet Everton in game week 1. Manchester United and Manchester City have been allowed extended rest following their campaign in Europa League and Champions League respectively. There are some mouth-watering encounters lined up in the first five gameweeks with a blockbuster Boxing Day also ready to feast the football fans. Here are the Premier League 2020-21 full fixture and schedule (Time in BST): Postponed Burnley v Man Utd Man City v Aston Villa Saturday 12 September Crystal Palace v Southampton Fulham v Arsenal Liverpool v Leeds United Spurs v Everton West Brom v Leicester City West Ham v Newcastle United Monday 14 September 20:00 Brighton v Chelsea 20:00 Sheffield United v Wolves Saturday 19 September Arsenal v West Ham Aston Villa v Sheffield United Chelsea v Liverpool Everton v West Brom Leeds United v Fulham Leicester City v Burnley Man Utd v Crystal Palace Newcastle United v Brighton Southampton v Spurs Wolves v Man City Saturday 26 September Brighton v Man Utd Burnley v Southampton Crystal Palace v Everton Fulham v Aston Villa Liverpool v Arsenal Man City v Leicester City Sheffield United v Leeds United Spurs v Newcastle United West Brom v Chelsea West Ham v Wolves Saturday 3 October Arsenal v Sheffield United Aston Villa v Liverpool Chelsea v Crystal Palace Everton v Brighton Leeds United v Man City Leicester City v West Ham Man Utd v Spurs Newcastle United v Burnley Southampton v West Brom Wolves v Fulham Saturday 17 October Chelsea v Southampton Crystal Palace v Brighton Everton v Liverpool Leeds United v Wolves Leicester City v Aston Villa Man City v Arsenal Newcastle United v Man Utd Sheffield United v Fulham Spurs v West Ham West Brom v Burnley Saturday 24 October Arsenal v Leicester City Aston Villa v Leeds United Brighton v West Brom Burnley v Spurs Fulham v Crystal Palace Liverpool v Sheffield United Man Utd v Chelsea Southampton v Everton West Ham v Man City Wolves v Newcastle United Saturday 31 October Aston Villa v Southampton Burnley v Chelsea Fulham v West Brom Leeds United v Leicester City Liverpool v West Ham Man Utd v Arsenal Newcastle United v Everton Sheffield United v Man City Spurs v Brighton Wolves v Crystal Palace Saturday 7 November Arsenal v Aston Villa Brighton v Burnley Chelsea v Sheffield United Crystal Palace v Leeds United Everton v Man Utd Leicester City v Wolves Man City v Liverpool Southampton v Newcastle United West Brom v Spurs West Ham v Fulham Saturday 21 November Aston Villa v Brighton Burnley v Crystal Palace Fulham v Everton Leeds United v Arsenal Liverpool v Leicester City Man Utd v West Brom Newcastle United v Chelsea Sheffield United v West Ham Spurs v Man City Wolves v Southampton Saturday 28 November Arsenal v Wolves Brighton v Liverpool Chelsea v Spurs Crystal Palace v Newcastle United Everton v Leeds United Leicester City v Fulham Man City v Burnley Southampton v Man Utd West Brom v Sheffield United West Ham v Aston Villa Saturday 5 December Aston Villa v Newcastle United Brighton v Southampton Burnley v Everton Chelsea v Leeds United Liverpool v Wolves Man City v Fulham Sheffield United v Leicester City Spurs v Arsenal West Brom v Crystal Palace West Ham v Man Utd Saturday 12 December Arsenal v Burnley Crystal Palace v Spurs Everton v Chelsea Fulham v Liverpool Leeds United v West Ham Leicester City v Brighton Man Utd v Man City Newcastle United v West Brom Southampton v Sheffield United Wolves v Aston Villa Tuesday 15 December 19:45 Arsenal v Southampton 19:45 Aston Villa v Burnley 19:45 Fulham v Brighton 19:45 Leeds United v Newcastle United 19:45 Leicester City v Everton 19:45 Sheffield United v Man Utd 19:45 West Ham v Crystal Palace 19:45 Wolves v Chelsea Wednesday 16 December 20:00 Liverpool v Spurs 20:00 Man City v West Brom Saturday 19 December Brighton v Sheffield United Burnley v Wolves Chelsea v West Ham Crystal Palace v Liverpool Everton v Arsenal Man Utd v Leeds United Newcastle United v Fulham Southampton v Man City Spurs v Leicester City West Brom v Aston Villa Saturday 26 December Arsenal v Chelsea Aston Villa v Crystal Palace Fulham v Southampton Leeds United v Burnley Leicester City v Man Utd Liverpool v West Brom Man City v Newcastle United Sheffield United v Everton West Ham v Brighton Wolves v Spurs Monday 28 December Brighton v Arsenal Burnley v Sheffield United Chelsea v Aston Villa Crystal Palace v Leicester City Everton v Man City Man Utd v Wolves Newcastle United v Liverpool Southampton v West Ham Spurs v Fulham West Brom v Leeds United Saturday 2 January Brighton v Wolves Burnley v Fulham Chelsea v Man City Crystal Palace v Sheffield United Everton v West Ham Man Utd v Aston Villa Newcastle United v Leicester City Southampton v Liverpool Spurs v Leeds United West Brom v Arsenal Tuesday 12 January* 19:45 Arsenal v Crystal Palace 19:45 Aston Villa v Spurs 19:45 Fulham v Man Utd 19:45 Leeds United v Southampton 19:45 Leicester City v Chelsea 19:45 Sheffield United v Newcastle United 19:45 West Ham v West Brom 19:45 Wolves v Everton Wednesday 13 January* 20:00 Liverpool v Burnley 20:00 Man City v Brighton Saturday 16 January Arsenal v Newcastle United Aston Villa v Everton Fulham v Chelsea Leeds United v Brighton Leicester City v Southampton Liverpool v Man Utd Man City v Crystal Palace Sheffield United v Spurs West Ham v Burnley Wolves v West Brom Tuesday 26 January 19:45 Brighton v Fulham 19:45 Burnley v Aston Villa 19:45 Everton v Leicester City 20:00 Man Utd v Sheffield United 20:00 West Brom v Man City Wednesday 27 January 19:45 Chelsea v Wolves 19:45 Newcastle United v Leeds United 19:45 Southampton v Arsenal 19:45 Spurs v Liverpool 20:00 Crystal Palace v West Ham Saturday 30 January Arsenal v Man Utd Brighton v Spurs Chelsea v Burnley Crystal Palace v Wolves Everton v Newcastle United Leicester City v Leeds United Man City v Sheffield United Southampton v Aston Villa West Brom v Fulham West Ham v Liverpool Tuesday 2 February 19:45 Aston Villa v West Ham 19:45 Burnley v Man City 19:45 Fulham v Leicester City 19:45 Leeds United v Everton 19:45 Sheffield United v West Brom 19:45 Wolves v Arsenal 20:00 Man Utd v Southampton Wednesday 3 February 19:45 Newcastle United v Crystal Palace 19:45 Spurs v Chelsea 20:00 Liverpool v Brighton Saturday 6 February Aston Villa v Arsenal Burnley v Brighton Fulham v West Ham Leeds United v Crystal Palace Liverpool v Man City Man Utd v Everton Newcastle United v Southampton Sheffield United v Chelsea Spurs v West Brom Wolves v Leicester City Saturday 13 February Arsenal v Leeds United Brighton v Aston Villa Chelsea v Newcastle United Crystal Palace v Burnley Everton v Fulham Leicester City v Liverpool Man City v Spurs Southampton v Wolves West Brom v Man Utd West Ham v Sheffield United Saturday 20 February Arsenal v Man City Aston Villa v Leicester City Brighton v Crystal Palace Burnley v West Brom Fulham v Sheffield United Liverpool v Everton Man Utd v Newcastle United Southampton v Chelsea West Ham v Spurs Wolves v Leeds United Saturday 27 February Chelsea v Man Utd Crystal Palace v Fulham Everton v Southampton Leeds United v Aston Villa Leicester City v Arsenal Man City v West Ham Newcastle United v Wolves Sheffield United v Liverpool Spurs v Burnley West Brom v Brighton Saturday 6 March Aston Villa v Wolves Brighton v Leicester City Burnley v Arsenal Chelsea v Everton Liverpool v Fulham Man City v Man Utd Sheffield United v Southampton Spurs v Crystal Palace West Brom v Newcastle United West Ham v Leeds United Saturday 13 March Arsenal v Spurs Crystal Palace v West Brom Everton v Burnley Fulham v Man City Leeds United v Chelsea Leicester City v Sheffield United Man Utd v West Ham Newcastle United v Aston Villa Southampton v Brighton Wolves v Liverpool Saturday 20 March Brighton v Newcastle United Burnley v Leicester City Crystal Palace v Man Utd Fulham v Leeds United Liverpool v Chelsea Man City v Wolves Sheffield United v Aston Villa Spurs v Southampton West Brom v Everton West Ham v Arsenal Saturday 3 April Arsenal v Liverpool Aston Villa v Fulham Chelsea v West Brom Everton v Crystal Palace Leeds United v Sheffield United Leicester City v Man City Man Utd v Brighton Newcastle United v Spurs Southampton v Burnley Wolves v West Ham Saturday 10 April Brighton v Everton Burnley v Newcastle United Crystal Palace v Chelsea Fulham v Wolves Liverpool v Aston Villa Man City v Leeds United Sheffield United v Arsenal Spurs v Man Utd West Brom v Southampton West Ham v Leicester City Saturday 17 April Arsenal v Fulham Aston Villa v Man City Chelsea v Brighton Everton v Spurs Leeds United v Liverpool Leicester City v West Brom Man Utd v Burnley Newcastle United v West Ham Southampton v Crystal Palace Wolves v Sheffield United Saturday 24 April Arsenal v Everton Aston Villa v West Brom Fulham v Spurs Leeds United v Man Utd Leicester City v Crystal Palace Liverpool v Newcastle United Man City v Southampton Sheffield United v Brighton West Ham v Chelsea Wolves v Burnley Saturday 1 May Brighton v Leeds United Burnley v West Ham Chelsea v Fulham Crystal Palace v Man City Everton v Aston Villa Man Utd v Liverpool Newcastle United v Arsenal Southampton v Leicester City Spurs v Sheffield United West Brom v Wolves Saturday 8 May Arsenal v West Brom Aston Villa v Man Utd Fulham v Burnley Leeds United v Spurs Leicester City v Newcastle United Liverpool v Southampton Man City v Chelsea Sheffield United v Crystal Palace West Ham v Everton Wolves v Brighton Tuesday 11 May 19:45 Brighton v West Ham 19:45 Burnley v Leeds United 19:45 Everton v Sheffield United 20:00 Man Utd v Leicester City 20:00 West Brom v Liverpool Wednesday 12 May 19:45 Chelsea v Arsenal 19:45 Newcastle United v Man City 19:45 Southampton v Fulham 19:45 Spurs v Wolves 20:00 Crystal Palace v Aston Villa Saturday 15 May Brighton v Man City Burnley v Liverpool Chelsea v Leicester City Crystal Palace v Arsenal Everton v Wolves Man Utd v Fulham Newcastle United v Sheffield United Southampton v Leeds United Spurs v Aston Villa West Brom v West Ham Sunday 23 May 16:00 Arsenal v Brighton 16:00 Aston Villa v Chelsea 16:00 Fulham v Newcastle United 16:00 Leeds United v West Brom 16:00 Leicester City v Spurs 16:00 Liverpool v Crystal Palace 16:00 Man City v Everton 16:00 Sheffield United v Burnley 16:00 West Ham v Southampton 16:00 Wolves v Manchester United

Premier League announce fixtures for 2020-21 season: Here is full schedule list

Angel Di Maria said Tuesday he will find it difficult to sleep after scoring in Paris Saint-Germain's 3-0 victory over RB Leipzig to reach the Champions League final.

Di Maria claimed his side's second goal, which came between headed strikes from Marquinhos and Juan Bernat, in a fixture played in a near-empty Estadio da Luz in Lisbon due to the coronavirus pandemic.

PSG will face either Bayern Munich or Lyon in their first ever appearance at a Champions League final.

"It's going to be hard to sleep tonight with the final on my mind," Di Maria told broadcasters RMC Sport.

"We're very happy. The team worked well, we succeeded in taking PSG to the final. Now we're in the final which is important for us and if we continue like today then it will help us for the final," he added.

The semi-finals included two sides each from Ligue 1 and Germany's Bundesliga and Di Maria said it underlined the standard of both competitions.

"We have proven French and German leagues are high quality, same level as other leagues and we have to keep doing what we have been," he said.

Di Maria won the competition with Real Madrid in the Portuguese capital in 2014 and compared his current side with the Spanish giants.

"It was incredible. We also have a good level not just individuals but the whole squad it's not always spectacular but the squad is quality because whoever players the level never drops," he said.

"We're just one step from making history for the club, getting to a final is historic but we can go further still," he added.

Angel Di Maria said Tuesday he will find it difficult to sleep after scoring in Paris Saint-Germain's 3-0 victory over RB Leipzig to reach the Champions League final.

Angel Di Maria said Tuesday he will find it difficult to sleep after scoring in Paris Saint-Germain's 3-0 victory over RB Leipzig to reach the Champions League final. Di Maria claimed his side's second goal, which came between headed strikes from Marquinhos and Juan Bernat, in a fixture played in a near-empty Estadio da Luz in Lisbon due to the coronavirus pandemic. PSG will face either Bayern Munich or Lyon in their first ever appearance at a Champions League final. "It's going to be hard to sleep tonight with the final on my mind," Di Maria told broadcasters RMC Sport. "We're very happy. The team worked well, we succeeded in taking PSG to the final. Now we're in the final which is important for us and if we continue like today then it will help us for the final," he added. The semi-finals included two sides each from Ligue 1 and Germany's Bundesliga and Di Maria said it underlined the standard of both competitions. "We have proven French and German leagues are high quality, same level as other leagues and we have to keep doing what we have been," he said. Di Maria won the competition with Real Madrid in the Portuguese capital in 2014 and compared his current side with the Spanish giants. "It was incredible. We also have a good level not just individuals but the whole squad it's not always spectacular but the squad is quality because whoever players the level never drops," he said. "We're just one step from making history for the club, getting to a final is historic but we can go further still," he added.

Di Maria 'won't sleep' after reaching Champions League final

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday.

“I feel the same vibes because we managed to create a group where everyone knows their importance and everyone do their job,” the France striker told a news conference.

“We do a lot of activities outside the pitch, maybe it’s too much for some but that’s how you win titles.

“It’s easier to make efforts and sacrifices for your team mates if they are your friends.”

Mbappe produced a below-par performance against Leipzig, but he is just back from an ankle injury and still lacks match practice.

He played half an hour in the 2-1 quarter-final win against Atalanta, helping PSG turn the tide as they were 1-0 down.

“When I got injured against St Etienne (in the French Cup final on July 24), I though the Champions League was over for me,” the 21-year-old said.

“But the morning after I told myself I needed to be part of this journey, even if I didn’t play, at least to bring my good mood to the team.”

PSG will face either Olympique Lyonnais or Bayern Munich in Sunday’s final, with the Ligue 1 side having Mbappe’s preference.

“I’d rather play Lyon because they’re a French side, but if it is Bayern, so be it,” he said.

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday.

Kylian Mbappe said he is feeling similar vibes as during France’s World Cup winning campaign in 2018 after Paris St Germain reached the Champions League final with an emphatic 3-0 win against RB Leipzig on Tuesday. “I feel the same vibes because we managed to create a group where everyone knows their importance and everyone do their job,” the France striker told a news conference. “We do a lot of activities outside the pitch, maybe it’s too much for some but that’s how you win titles. “It’s easier to make efforts and sacrifices for your team mates if they are your friends.” Mbappe produced a below-par performance against Leipzig, but he is just back from an ankle injury and still lacks match practice. He played half an hour in the 2-1 quarter-final win against Atalanta, helping PSG turn the tide as they were 1-0 down. “When I got injured against St Etienne (in the French Cup final on July 24), I though the Champions League was over for me,” the 21-year-old said. “But the morning after I told myself I needed to be part of this journey, even if I didn’t play, at least to bring my good mood to the team.” PSG will face either Olympique Lyonnais or Bayern Munich in Sunday’s final, with the Ligue 1 side having Mbappe’s preference. “I’d rather play Lyon because they’re a French side, but if it is Bayern, so be it,” he said.

I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday.

Koeman, who is revered by Barca fans for delivering their first European Cup as a player, will be expected to lead the club’s rebuilding work after they were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals last Friday.

“If there is no change then we will announce Koeman as our next coach and he will lead this team and these players forward with a different type of project, led by a coach who all Barca fans know,” Bartomeu said in an interview with the club’s official television channel.

Koeman’s imminent arrival will be the third phase of a restructuring of the club which began with Quique Setien’s sacking on Monday and continued on Tuesday as sporting director Eric Abidal agreed to terminate his contract.

Koeman, 57, arrived in Barcelona on Tuesday after spending the morning at the Netherlands’ headquarters to negotiate being released from his contract with the national team, who he has coached since 2018 and led to qualify for Euro 2020.

Koeman is fondly remembered at Barca for the role he played in Johan Cruyff’s hugely successful side known as the ‘Dream Team’ and for scoring the only goal against Sampdoria in the 1992 European Cup final.

The defender later became the club’s assistant coach before embarking on an eventful career as a head coach, managing Dutch sides Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord plus Premier League teams Southampton and Everton and La Liga’s Valencia.

“We are betting on him because we know him very well, we know how he thinks and how his teams play, but also because of his experience and as he was in Johan’s ‘Dream Team’ he knows Barca and how we understand football,” Bartomeu added.

Bartomeu also said captain Messi was not about to leave the club and would be an integral part of the team under Koeman.

“Messi wants to end his career at Barca, he has said that many times. I’ve spoken to Koeman about him and he has told me Messi will be the pillar of his project,” Bartomeu said.

“Messi has a contract with Barca until 2021. I speak to him and his father regularly and they know that we have a solid project, that a new coach is coming and that he will count on him.”

Bartomeu, who on Monday announced that the club’s presidential elections will take place in March 2021, three months earlier than planned, also defended his running of the club after facing calls to resign after the defeat by Bayern.

“We have a sporting crisis but not an institutional one,” he added.

“We’ve had a very negative result in the Champions League but the club is in a good place in a social and financial sense.”

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday.

Ronald Koeman is set to become Barcelona’s next coach and the Dutchman will construct his team around Lionel Messi, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said on Tuesday. Koeman, who is revered by Barca fans for delivering their first European Cup as a player, will be expected to lead the club’s rebuilding work after they were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals last Friday. “If there is no change then we will announce Koeman as our next coach and he will lead this team and these players forward with a different type of project, led by a coach who all Barca fans know,” Bartomeu said in an interview with the club’s official television channel. Koeman’s imminent arrival will be the third phase of a restructuring of the club which began with Quique Setien’s sacking on Monday and continued on Tuesday as sporting director Eric Abidal agreed to terminate his contract. Koeman, 57, arrived in Barcelona on Tuesday after spending the morning at the Netherlands’ headquarters to negotiate being released from his contract with the national team, who he has coached since 2018 and led to qualify for Euro 2020. Koeman is fondly remembered at Barca for the role he played in Johan Cruyff’s hugely successful side known as the ‘Dream Team’ and for scoring the only goal against Sampdoria in the 1992 European Cup final. The defender later became the club’s assistant coach before embarking on an eventful career as a head coach, managing Dutch sides Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord plus Premier League teams Southampton and Everton and La Liga’s Valencia. “We are betting on him because we know him very well, we know how he thinks and how his teams play, but also because of his experience and as he was in Johan’s ‘Dream Team’ he knows Barca and how we understand football,” Bartomeu added. Bartomeu also said captain Messi was not about to leave the club and would be an integral part of the team under Koeman. “Messi wants to end his career at Barca, he has said that many times. I’ve spoken to Koeman about him and he has told me Messi will be the pillar of his project,” Bartomeu said. “Messi has a contract with Barca until 2021. I speak to him and his father regularly and they know that we have a solid project, that a new coach is coming and that he will count on him.” Bartomeu, who on Monday announced that the club’s presidential elections will take place in March 2021, three months earlier than planned, also defended his running of the club after facing calls to resign after the defeat by Bayern. “We have a sporting crisis but not an institutional one,” he added. “We’ve had a very negative result in the Champions League but the club is in a good place in a social and financial sense.”

Koeman will be Barca's next coach, Messi to stay - president

Paris Saint-Germain are through to the final of the Champions League for the first time after goals by Marquinhos, Angel Di Maria and Juan Bernat saw them ease to a 3-0 win over RB Leipzig in a one-sided semi-final in Lisbon on Tuesday.

It was 2-0 at half-time, with the first two goals set up by Neymar, the Brazilian again outstanding at the Estadio da Luz, just as he had been in last week's quarter-final against Atalanta.

Bernat's goal came in the 55th minute and snuffed out any hopes Leipzig had of a comeback. They could not handle the world's most expensive player, or the many other outstanding performers in the PSG side, who no longer appear overcome by the sense of occasion that surrounds a Champions League knockout tie.

After seeming to invent ever more absurd ways to lose in Europe in recent years -- the 6-1 loss against Barcelona in 2017 and last year's defeat by Manchester United in the last 16 stand out -- despite all the investment by the club's Qatari owners, here they lived up their billing.

Bayern Munich and Lyon meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday for the right to face PSG in Sunday's final. Thomas Tuchel's team are the first French finalists in Europe's elite club competition since Monaco in 2004.

Nine years after Qatar Sports Investments bought a moribund mid-table Ligue 1 team and began turning them into the untouchable force in France, they are now one game away from winning the trophy that really matters to them.

There is little doubt that the context in Lisbon is helping. PSG have only needed to perform for 90 minutes instead of over two legs in the latter stages of this season's competition, so badly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.

They also need not feel the pressure of having to perform in front of their expectant support -- glimpse the other way inside Benfica's cavernous stadium and you really could forget there was a football match being played.

<h2>- No contest -</h2>

Then again, in many ways it was not much of a match.

A first ever European semi-final was a step too far for Julian Nagelsmann's young team, which featured seven outfield players aged between 21 and 24 in the starting line-up and this time could not compensate for the loss of star striker Timo Werner, sold to Chelsea before the 'Final Eight' began.

PSG had seen Neymar hit the post before they went ahead in the 13th minute.

Neymar won a free-kick just outside the box to the left. Di Maria swung in the dead ball and Marquinhos headed home.

The Brazilian defender, reinvented as a holding midfielder by Tuchel, does not score many but he had already saved PSG against Atalanta with his last-minute equaliser.

Di Maria was making his comeback after suspension kept him out of the quarter-final. Kylian Mbappe was also fit enough to start for the first time after his recent ankle injury.

Mauro Icardi made way as that duo joined Neymar in a three-man attack. At the other end, Sergio Rico was rarely troubled as he stood in for injured goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

Neymar nearly made it 2-0 with an audacious attempt from a free-kick, almost catching out Peter Gulacsi when he hit the post from way out on the right flank as everyone expected a cross.

But Gulacsi gifted the French champions their second just before the break. His poor pass out fell to Leandro Paredes, and he returned it into the box and on to Di Maria via an outrageous Neymar flick. Di Maria controlled and slotted home.

It was game over within 10 minutes of the second half starting.

Leipzig thought Nordi Mukiele was fouled in the right-back position but the Dutch referee decided he had merely slipped. As play continued, Di Maria crossed for Bernat to head in. Tuchel, perched on a cool box in his technical area, pumped his fist in celebration.

PSG are now hoping to become just the second French winner of the trophy, 27 years after Marseille won the inaugural Champions League.

Paris Saint-Germain are through to the final of the Champions League for the first time after goals by Marquinhos, Angel Di Maria and Juan Bernat saw them ease to a 3-0 win over RB Leipzig in a one-sided semi-final in Lisbon on Tuesday.

Paris Saint-Germain are through to the final of the Champions League for the first time after goals by Marquinhos, Angel Di Maria and Juan Bernat saw them ease to a 3-0 win over RB Leipzig in a one-sided semi-final in Lisbon on Tuesday. It was 2-0 at half-time, with the first two goals set up by Neymar, the Brazilian again outstanding at the Estadio da Luz, just as he had been in last week's quarter-final against Atalanta. Bernat's goal came in the 55th minute and snuffed out any hopes Leipzig had of a comeback. They could not handle the world's most expensive player, or the many other outstanding performers in the PSG side, who no longer appear overcome by the sense of occasion that surrounds a Champions League knockout tie. After seeming to invent ever more absurd ways to lose in Europe in recent years -- the 6-1 loss against Barcelona in 2017 and last year's defeat by Manchester United in the last 16 stand out -- despite all the investment by the club's Qatari owners, here they lived up their billing. Bayern Munich and Lyon meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday for the right to face PSG in Sunday's final. Thomas Tuchel's team are the first French finalists in Europe's elite club competition since Monaco in 2004. Nine years after Qatar Sports Investments bought a moribund mid-table Ligue 1 team and began turning them into the untouchable force in France, they are now one game away from winning the trophy that really matters to them. There is little doubt that the context in Lisbon is helping. PSG have only needed to perform for 90 minutes instead of over two legs in the latter stages of this season's competition, so badly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. They also need not feel the pressure of having to perform in front of their expectant support -- glimpse the other way inside Benfica's cavernous stadium and you really could forget there was a football match being played. - No contest - Then again, in many ways it was not much of a match. A first ever European semi-final was a step too far for Julian Nagelsmann's young team, which featured seven outfield players aged between 21 and 24 in the starting line-up and this time could not compensate for the loss of star striker Timo Werner, sold to Chelsea before the 'Final Eight' began. PSG had seen Neymar hit the post before they went ahead in the 13th minute. Neymar won a free-kick just outside the box to the left. Di Maria swung in the dead ball and Marquinhos headed home. The Brazilian defender, reinvented as a holding midfielder by Tuchel, does not score many but he had already saved PSG against Atalanta with his last-minute equaliser. Di Maria was making his comeback after suspension kept him out of the quarter-final. Kylian Mbappe was also fit enough to start for the first time after his recent ankle injury. Mauro Icardi made way as that duo joined Neymar in a three-man attack. At the other end, Sergio Rico was rarely troubled as he stood in for injured goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Neymar nearly made it 2-0 with an audacious attempt from a free-kick, almost catching out Peter Gulacsi when he hit the post from way out on the right flank as everyone expected a cross. But Gulacsi gifted the French champions their second just before the break. His poor pass out fell to Leandro Paredes, and he returned it into the box and on to Di Maria via an outrageous Neymar flick. Di Maria controlled and slotted home. It was game over within 10 minutes of the second half starting. Leipzig thought Nordi Mukiele was fouled in the right-back position but the Dutch referee decided he had merely slipped. As play continued, Di Maria crossed for Bernat to head in. Tuchel, perched on a cool box in his technical area, pumped his fist in celebration. PSG are now hoping to become just the second French winner of the trophy, 27 years after Marseille won the inaugural Champions League.

PSG see off Leipzig to reach first ever Champions League final

Bayern Munich are set to lock horns with Olympique Lyon at the second semi-final of the UEFA Champions League at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal in what promises to be another cracker of a contest in Europe’s elite competition.

The winner of Bayern Munich vs Lyon will go on to face French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who qualified to the summit clash by defeating RB Leipzig 3-0 in what was a comfortable victory for the Ligue 1 champions.&nbsp;

All eyes will be on rampant Bayern who are yet to lose a match since the restart and are undefeated in the UEFA Champions League 2019-20, moreover after their thumping 8-2 win over Barcelona in the quarter-final. However, Lyon will also be confident of their chances after winning over Man City by 3-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-could-miss-champions-league-final-for-breaking-uefas-covid-19-protocol-321635" hreflang="en">Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol</a>

<h2>When will the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match begin?</h2>

The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 20.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match be played?</h2>

The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match match will be held at Estadio Jose Alvalade in Portugal.

<h2>Which channel will telecast the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match?</h2>

The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will have a live telecast on Ten 1/HD and Ten 2/HD.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match?</h2>

The live streaming of Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bayern Munich are set to lock horns with Olympique Lyon at the second semi-final of the UEFA Champions League at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal in what promises to be another cracker of a contest in Europe’s elite competition.

Bayern Munich are set to lock horns with Olympique Lyon at the second semi-final of the UEFA Champions League at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal in what promises to be another cracker of a contest in Europe’s elite competition. The winner of Bayern Munich vs Lyon will go on to face French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who qualified to the summit clash by defeating RB Leipzig 3-0 in what was a comfortable victory for the Ligue 1 champions. All eyes will be on rampant Bayern who are yet to lose a match since the restart and are undefeated in the UEFA Champions League 2019-20, moreover after their thumping 8-2 win over Barcelona in the quarter-final. However, Lyon will also be confident of their chances after winning over Man City by 3-1. ALSO READ: Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol When will the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match begin? The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 20. Where will the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match be played? The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match match will be held at Estadio Jose Alvalade in Portugal. Which channel will telecast the Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match? The Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will have a live telecast on Ten 1/HD and Ten 2/HD. How to watch the live streaming of Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match? The live streaming of Bayern Munich vs Olympique Lyon, UEFA Champions League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

Bayern Munich vs Lyon, UCL Live Streaming: When and where to watch BAY vs LYO

French police on Wednesday said they have arrested 36 people including three minors overnight after clashes following Paris Saint-Germain’s triumph in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> semi-final over German club RB Leipzig.&nbsp;

Police were deployed in big numbers both on the Champs-Elysees – the iconic Parisian avenue – and PSG’s home stadium – Parc des Princes – in the west of the capital of France.&nbsp;

Thousands of PSG fans took to road including majority of young fans, who were not wearing masks in line with COVID-19 health and safety protocols while parading down the Champs-Elysees in cars and on mopeds and scooters, celebrating the iconic win by PSG against RB Leipzig.&nbsp;

According to police, arrests were made for various acts including throwing of projectiles, acts of violence against authorities, contempt and theft.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-could-miss-champions-league-final-for-breaking-uefas-covid-19-protocol-321635" hreflang="en">Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol</a>

Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said that those people dishonor the players who wear PSG’s jersey on the field while warning strict actions.&nbsp;

"Some people are wearing a jersey that last night made an entire city and even a country proud. They dishonor it," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-feel-world-cup-vibes-says-france-striker-mbappe-after-psgs-win-321618" hreflang="en">I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win</a>

"Justice will be vigilant and the Paris prosecutor's office will bring to court the perpetrators of these acts on the Champs-Elysees."

PSG defeated RB Leipzig 3-0 to qualify for their first UEFA Champions League final on Sunday against the winner of Bayern Munich vs Lyon after beating Leipzig 3-0. This is the first time PSG has qualified to the summit clash of Europe’s elite competition. 
&nbsp;

French police on Wednesday said they have arrested 36 people including three minors overnight after clashes following Paris Saint-Germain’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League semi-final over German club RB Leipzig.

French police on Wednesday said they have arrested 36 people including three minors overnight after clashes following Paris Saint-Germain’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League semi-final over German club RB Leipzig. Police were deployed in big numbers both on the Champs-Elysees – the iconic Parisian avenue – and PSG’s home stadium – Parc des Princes – in the west of the capital of France. Thousands of PSG fans took to road including majority of young fans, who were not wearing masks in line with COVID-19 health and safety protocols while parading down the Champs-Elysees in cars and on mopeds and scooters, celebrating the iconic win by PSG against RB Leipzig. According to police, arrests were made for various acts including throwing of projectiles, acts of violence against authorities, contempt and theft. ALSO READ: Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti said that those people dishonor the players who wear PSG’s jersey on the field while warning strict actions. "Some people are wearing a jersey that last night made an entire city and even a country proud. They dishonor it," he said. ALSO READ: I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win "Justice will be vigilant and the Paris prosecutor's office will bring to court the perpetrators of these acts on the Champs-Elysees." PSG defeated RB Leipzig 3-0 to qualify for their first UEFA Champions League final on Sunday against the winner of Bayern Munich vs Lyon after beating Leipzig 3-0. This is the first time PSG has qualified to the summit clash of Europe’s elite competition.

Champions League: 36 PSG fans arrested by French police after 3-0 win over Leipzig

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