<p>The current European Champions Real Madrid have been dealing with several 'real' problems of the club footballing world since the start of the 2018-19 season as their performance graph has dropped to an unexpected level.</p>

<p>The exit of Real's former coach Zinedine Zidane might have left the Madristas hanging by a thread. But the departure of Madrid talisman&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo&nbsp;to the Italian giant Juventus left a huge void in the squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zidane's replacement, Julen Lopetegui, did not even lost halfway through the season before he was fired while not finding an appropriate replacement for Ronaldo further compounded the problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Due to the club's poor performances, especially after a 5-1 mauling by arch-rivals Barcelona in El Clasico, Lopetegui was sacked and former player and reserve team boss Santiago Solari was appointed as the interim coach.</p>

<p>During Lopetegui's 10 La Liga games in charge, Real won four, drew two and lost four.</p>

<p>Currently, the club is languishing at&nbsp;6th place but they definitely have adequate time to bounce back and mount a serious challenge for the title and book a berth in next year's Champions League.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The problems are evident and the solution or the 'instant remedy' lies on a player who lived under the shadows of Cristiano -- Gareth Bale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to that, a proper management will do the trick.</p>

<p>Bale is a player whom Zidane has repeatedly misused and left out of the starting line-up in a majority of games in his last season as manager. Bale spent 2,362 minutes on the field and scored 21 goals, few decisive ones in the last season.</p>

<p>So far in this season, Bale has played 1,089 minutes and scored five goals for the club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The strained relationship between Bale and Zidane may have led to the Welshman looking for an exit but the latest trends suggest that this is the best opportunity for Bale to emerge as the hero leave a lasting impression.</p>

<p>The 29-year-old can show-off his creativity for which he is popular among the millennials, while Dani Carvajal, Marcelo and Raphael Varane are struggling with injuries while Luka Modric, who was magnificent during Croatia's World Cup campaign is yet to recover from fatigue.</p>

<p>Apart from much-criticised goal-scoring problems, which resulted in the club's downfall this season, the defence has been exposed which resulted in club conceding many goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the coach-controversy, inexperienced Alvaro Odriozola, in for Dani Carvajal at right-back and Sergio Ramos' performances have escaped criticism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Bale's efforts will never be enough to clinch the title. The huge void that Ronaldo left can be filled during the winter transfer by bringing in a cutting-edge finisher like the Portuguese.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Real wants to sail through this difficult phase, Bale needs to step up and prove that he is capable of living up to the huge expectations of the club as he did in the in the last year Champions League final to beat Liverpool 3-1 by scoring twice.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


The current European Champions Real Madrid have been dealing with several 'real' problems of the club footballing world since the start of the 2018-19 season as their performance graph has dropped to an unexpected level.

The current European Champions Real Madrid have been dealing with several 'real' problems of the club footballing world since the start of the 2018-19 season as their performance graph has dropped to an unexpected level. The exit of Real's former coach Zinedine Zidane might have left the Madristas hanging by a thread. But the departure of Madrid talisman Cristiano Ronaldo to the Italian giant Juventus left a huge void in the squad. Zidane's replacement, Julen Lopetegui, did not even lost halfway through the season before he was fired while not finding an appropriate replacement for Ronaldo further compounded the problems. Due to the club's poor performances, especially after a 5-1 mauling by arch-rivals Barcelona in El Clasico, Lopetegui was sacked and former player and reserve team boss Santiago Solari was appointed as the interim coach. During Lopetegui's 10 La Liga games in charge, Real won four, drew two and lost four. Currently, the club is languishing at 6th place but they definitely have adequate time to bounce back and mount a serious challenge for the title and book a berth in next year's Champions League. The problems are evident and the solution or the 'instant remedy' lies on a player who lived under the shadows of Cristiano -- Gareth Bale. In addition to that, a proper management will do the trick. Bale is a player whom Zidane has repeatedly misused and left out of the starting line-up in a majority of games in his last season as manager. Bale spent 2,362 minutes on the field and scored 21 goals, few decisive ones in the last season. So far in this season, Bale has played 1,089 minutes and scored five goals for the club. The strained relationship between Bale and Zidane may have led to the Welshman looking for an exit but the latest trends suggest that this is the best opportunity for Bale to emerge as the hero leave a lasting impression. The 29-year-old can show-off his creativity for which he is popular among the millennials, while Dani Carvajal, Marcelo and Raphael Varane are struggling with injuries while Luka Modric, who was magnificent during Croatia's World Cup campaign is yet to recover from fatigue. Apart from much-criticised goal-scoring problems, which resulted in the club's downfall this season, the defence has been exposed which resulted in club conceding many goals. Amid the coach-controversy, inexperienced Alvaro Odriozola, in for Dani Carvajal at right-back and Sergio Ramos' performances have escaped criticism. However, Bale's efforts will never be enough to clinch the title. The huge void that Ronaldo left can be filled during the winter transfer by bringing in a cutting-edge finisher like the Portuguese. If Real wants to sail through this difficult phase, Bale needs to step up and prove that he is capable of living up to the huge expectations of the club as he did in the in the last year Champions League final to beat Liverpool 3-1 by scoring twice. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Gareth Bale has solution to 'Real' problems but can he turn the tables

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=real+madrid">Real Madrid</a> coach Santiago Solari has challenged Gareth Bale to "eat the stage every time he plays" after he starred in their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/real-end-winless-run-against-plzen-but-doubts-remain-173133">win over Viktoria Plzen</a> on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Madrid travel to Celta Vigo in La Liga on Sunday, looking to continue a revival that has included three wins out of three since Solari took temporary charge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the team's form fell away under Julen Lopetegui, so did Bale's, the winger following up a strong start to the season with just one goal in eight games.</p>

<p>An adductor injury contributed to Bale's dry patch but he was excellent against Plzen in the Champions League, scoring one and setting up another for Karim Benzema in the 5-0 victory.</p>

<p>"I like him everywhere," Solari said on Saturday. "What Bale has to do is eat the stage every time he plays, just like he did against Viktoria Plzen."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solari's time allowed as an interim coach will expire over the international break, meaning this weekend's match against Celta is his final audition for a longer stay in charge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A fourth consecutive win is likely to earn him the job, at least until the end of the season, particularly given the lack of obvious alternatives available.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solari played down the game's significance on his future. "Each game is final for many reasons," Solari said. "If you lose points you cannot recover. I just focus on the next game. Longer-term work is outside my role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My role is to think about facing the next match with maximum concentration."&nbsp;</p>

<p>One player to have lost out under Solari is goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who had been picked in the Champions League under Lopetegui while Thibaut Courtois played in La Liga. Solari, however, has plumped for Courtois in both competitions so far.</p>

<p>"Keylor is a strong man," Solari said. "He has behaved perfectly. He is a very well-respected player in the dressing room."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dani Carvajal, Marcelo and Raphael Varane are all out injured meaning Alvaro Odriozola and Sergio Reguilon are likely to continue against Celta at full-back, with Nacho in central defence.</p>


Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari has challenged Gareth Bale to "eat the stage every time he plays" after he starred in their win over Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday.

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari has challenged Gareth Bale to "eat the stage every time he plays" after he starred in their win over Viktoria Plzen on Wednesday. Madrid travel to Celta Vigo in La Liga on Sunday, looking to continue a revival that has included three wins out of three since Solari took temporary charge. As the team's form fell away under Julen Lopetegui, so did Bale's, the winger following up a strong start to the season with just one goal in eight games. An adductor injury contributed to Bale's dry patch but he was excellent against Plzen in the Champions League, scoring one and setting up another for Karim Benzema in the 5-0 victory. "I like him everywhere," Solari said on Saturday. "What Bale has to do is eat the stage every time he plays, just like he did against Viktoria Plzen." Solari's time allowed as an interim coach will expire over the international break, meaning this weekend's match against Celta is his final audition for a longer stay in charge. A fourth consecutive win is likely to earn him the job, at least until the end of the season, particularly given the lack of obvious alternatives available. Solari played down the game's significance on his future. "Each game is final for many reasons," Solari said. "If you lose points you cannot recover. I just focus on the next game. Longer-term work is outside my role. "My role is to think about facing the next match with maximum concentration." One player to have lost out under Solari is goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who had been picked in the Champions League under Lopetegui while Thibaut Courtois played in La Liga. Solari, however, has plumped for Courtois in both competitions so far. "Keylor is a strong man," Solari said. "He has behaved perfectly. He is a very well-respected player in the dressing room." Dani Carvajal, Marcelo and Raphael Varane are all out injured meaning Alvaro Odriozola and Sergio Reguilon are likely to continue against Celta at full-back, with Nacho in central defence.

Solari urges Bale to 'eat stage every time' as decision time approaches for Madrid

<p>When Real Madrid sold Cristiano Ronaldo in July, fans and local media alike all asked the same question: how do you replace him?</p>

<p>Ronaldo was Real's all-time top scorer, notching up 451 goals in 438 games in all competitions. He led the club to four Champions League titles from the last five available and was invariably the man who dug his side out of a hole with a goal from nothing just when they most needed a hero.</p>

<p>The message from inside the club, however, was that they did not need to make a ‘Galactico’ splash in the transfer market, and that the answer lay within the team already.</p>

<p>Gareth Bale, signed in 2013 for a then world-record $109.12 million&nbsp;from Tottenham Hotspur following an extended public courting, had long been marked out by Real president Florentino Perez as the man to take over from Ronaldo.</p>

<p>It was also suggested that French forward Karim Benzema would be freed from the shackles many perceived the Portuguese had placed on him and finally be able to play as a central striker.</p>

<p>Then there was Marco Asensio. The 22-year-old is arguably the hottest prospect in Spanish football and he was earmarked for a place in the front three. Goodbye to the ‘BBC’ (Bale, Benzema, Cristiano) trident, hello to the ‘BBA’.</p>

<p>Things started well. Real enjoyed four wins and a draw from their first five La Liga games, with the trio netting eight of the 12 goals scored, while Roma were swatted aside in their Champions League group-stage opener. Bale looked the business, while Benzema threatened to become a goal-scoring machine.</p>

<p>However, following September’s 1-0 win over Espanyol, Real had five games without a win – a run in which they went eight hours and one minute without scoring.</p>

<p>While youngster Asensio can be forgiven for having his ups and downs, Bale picked up one of the many injuries that have blighted his time in the Spanish capital and Benzema looked the shadow of a striker capable of leading the line for the European champions.</p>

<p>It was the kind of thing that never happened when Ronaldo was at the club. It is no coincidence that Real have endured their most barren run in terms of victories and goals since just before the Portuguese joined the club in 2009.</p>

<p>They have slipped to seventh in La Liga, behind newly-promoted Valladolid, and the pressure is mounting on new coach Julen Lopetegui, who when he took over the club would have envisaged Ronaldo being a key part of his squad.</p>

<p>With Sunday’s Clasico looming, the first for 11 years that will feature neither the Portuguese nor Barcelona’s Lionel Messi, the onus is on Real to prove that life after Ronaldo does exist. A defeat would only intensify the storm clouds brewing over the Bernabeu.</p>


When Real Madrid sold Cristiano Ronaldo in July, fans and local media alike all asked the same question: how do you replace him? Ronaldo was Real's all-time top scorer, notching up 451 goals in 438 games in all competitions.

When Real Madrid sold Cristiano Ronaldo in July, fans and local media alike all asked the same question: how do you replace him? Ronaldo was Real's all-time top scorer, notching up 451 goals in 438 games in all competitions. He led the club to four Champions League titles from the last five available and was invariably the man who dug his side out of a hole with a goal from nothing just when they most needed a hero. The message from inside the club, however, was that they did not need to make a ‘Galactico’ splash in the transfer market, and that the answer lay within the team already. Gareth Bale, signed in 2013 for a then world-record $109.12 million from Tottenham Hotspur following an extended public courting, had long been marked out by Real president Florentino Perez as the man to take over from Ronaldo. It was also suggested that French forward Karim Benzema would be freed from the shackles many perceived the Portuguese had placed on him and finally be able to play as a central striker. Then there was Marco Asensio. The 22-year-old is arguably the hottest prospect in Spanish football and he was earmarked for a place in the front three. Goodbye to the ‘BBC’ (Bale, Benzema, Cristiano) trident, hello to the ‘BBA’. Things started well. Real enjoyed four wins and a draw from their first five La Liga games, with the trio netting eight of the 12 goals scored, while Roma were swatted aside in their Champions League group-stage opener. Bale looked the business, while Benzema threatened to become a goal-scoring machine. However, following September’s 1-0 win over Espanyol, Real had five games without a win – a run in which they went eight hours and one minute without scoring. While youngster Asensio can be forgiven for having his ups and downs, Bale picked up one of the many injuries that have blighted his time in the Spanish capital and Benzema looked the shadow of a striker capable of leading the line for the European champions. It was the kind of thing that never happened when Ronaldo was at the club. It is no coincidence that Real have endured their most barren run in terms of victories and goals since just before the Portuguese joined the club in 2009. They have slipped to seventh in La Liga, behind newly-promoted Valladolid, and the pressure is mounting on new coach Julen Lopetegui, who when he took over the club would have envisaged Ronaldo being a key part of his squad. With Sunday’s Clasico looming, the first for 11 years that will feature neither the Portuguese nor Barcelona’s Lionel Messi, the onus is on Real to prove that life after Ronaldo does exist. A defeat would only intensify the storm clouds brewing over the Bernabeu.

Replacing Ronaldo has proved tougher than Real Madrid expected

<p>Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui's woes deepened as the European champions fell to a 2-1 defeat at home to Levante on Saturday, setting an unwanted record of 482 minutes without scoring a goal in the process.</p>

<p>Jose Luis Morales put Levante ahead in the seventh minute after a defensive slip from Raphael Varane while Roger Marti doubled the lead in the 13th from the penalty spot after a handball by Varane, with the spot-kick awarded after consultation with the video assistant referee (VAR).</p>

<p>Real created a number of chances down the other end but hit the woodwork three times and had a strike by Marco Asensio ruled out by VAR for offside and early in the second half they broke an unwanted club record of 464 minutes without scoring.</p>

<p>Marcelo finally snapped their long spell without a goal by smashing into the net midway through the second half, scoring the club's first goal in 482 minutes.</p>

<p>But despite creating a glut of further chances Real slumped to a third straight loss in all competitions to pile the pressure on under-fire Lopetegui.</p>

<p>Real, who were booed by their fans, are fifth in the La Liga standings, three points behind leaders Alaves.</p>

<p>Champions Barcelona play at home to second-placed Sevilla later on Saturday.</p>

<p>Real were in dire need of a win after losing to CSKA Moscow and Alaves in their last two games and they were boosted by the return of influential figures Isco and Marcelo although Gareth Bale could only start on the bench after recovering from injury.</p>

<p>Madrid conceded the first goal for the seventh time in 11 games in all competitions when Varane failed to clear the most routine of through passes and forward Morales stole the loose ball and rounded goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to score.</p>

<p>Levante stunned the home fans into silence when they were awarded a penalty in bizarre circumstances for a handball by the hapless Varane on the line of the penalty area, which was finally given after consulting the video assistant referee (VAR) just as the visitors were about to take a free kick.</p>

<p>Courtois guessed the right way but Marti's penalty was too powerful for him.</p>

<p>VAR was called into action five minutes later to cancel out a goal for Real from Marco Asensio for offside, the first of a flurry of chances for the home side which saw Mariano hit the crossbar and Levante's former Barcelona goalkeeper Oier Olazabal make a string of impressive saves.</p>

<p>Olazabal made another superb save after the interval to thwart substitute Bale while fellow sub Benzema hit the post after Marcelo had reduced the deficit to a single goal.</p>

<p>Mariano thought he had found a leveller late on when he converted from close range but the goal was ruled offside.</p>


Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui's woes deepened as the European champions fell to a 2-1 defeat at home to Levante on Saturday, setting an unwanted record of 482 minutes without scoring a goal in the process.

Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui's woes deepened as the European champions fell to a 2-1 defeat at home to Levante on Saturday, setting an unwanted record of 482 minutes without scoring a goal in the process. Jose Luis Morales put Levante ahead in the seventh minute after a defensive slip from Raphael Varane while Roger Marti doubled the lead in the 13th from the penalty spot after a handball by Varane, with the spot-kick awarded after consultation with the video assistant referee (VAR). Real created a number of chances down the other end but hit the woodwork three times and had a strike by Marco Asensio ruled out by VAR for offside and early in the second half they broke an unwanted club record of 464 minutes without scoring. Marcelo finally snapped their long spell without a goal by smashing into the net midway through the second half, scoring the club's first goal in 482 minutes. But despite creating a glut of further chances Real slumped to a third straight loss in all competitions to pile the pressure on under-fire Lopetegui. Real, who were booed by their fans, are fifth in the La Liga standings, three points behind leaders Alaves. Champions Barcelona play at home to second-placed Sevilla later on Saturday. Real were in dire need of a win after losing to CSKA Moscow and Alaves in their last two games and they were boosted by the return of influential figures Isco and Marcelo although Gareth Bale could only start on the bench after recovering from injury. Madrid conceded the first goal for the seventh time in 11 games in all competitions when Varane failed to clear the most routine of through passes and forward Morales stole the loose ball and rounded goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to score. Levante stunned the home fans into silence when they were awarded a penalty in bizarre circumstances for a handball by the hapless Varane on the line of the penalty area, which was finally given after consulting the video assistant referee (VAR) just as the visitors were about to take a free kick. Courtois guessed the right way but Marti's penalty was too powerful for him. VAR was called into action five minutes later to cancel out a goal for Real from Marco Asensio for offside, the first of a flurry of chances for the home side which saw Mariano hit the crossbar and Levante's former Barcelona goalkeeper Oier Olazabal make a string of impressive saves. Olazabal made another superb save after the interval to thwart substitute Bale while fellow sub Benzema hit the post after Marcelo had reduced the deficit to a single goal. Mariano thought he had found a leveller late on when he converted from close range but the goal was ruled offside.

Pressure mounts on coach Julen Lopetegui as Real Madrid lose again

<p>Title holders Real Madrid have started training for the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow in the absence of Welsh forward Gareth Bale, who was out due to injury.</p>

<p>While Spanish media reported that Bale has not suffered a thigh injury and will return to La Liga action for Real Madrid at the weekend.</p>

<p>During the match against cross-town rival Atletico, was taken off at half-time after suffering discomfort in his thigh.</p>

<p>Coach Julen Lopetegui left him out of the Champions League squad to face CSKA Moscow on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Madrid sports newspapers AS and Marca said tests on Monday showed Bale had no serious injury, adding he was expected to return to training on Thursday ahead of Saturday's game at Alaves.</p>

<p>Lopetegui led Sunday's training, in which the starters against Atletico performed a recovery session.</p>

<p>Isco, who recently underwent surgery for appendicitis, and Marcelo, who suffers a muscular problem, did not exercise on Sunday, while Alvaro Odriozola worked out normally.</p>

<p>Vinicius Jr, who made his La Liga debut against Atletico, also joined the training and is looking to make his Champions League debut in Moscow.</p>


Title holders Real Madrid have started training for the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow in the absence of Welsh forward Gareth Bale, who was out due to injury.

Title holders Real Madrid have started training for the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow in the absence of Welsh forward Gareth Bale, who was out due to injury. While Spanish media reported that Bale has not suffered a thigh injury and will return to La Liga action for Real Madrid at the weekend. During the match against cross-town rival Atletico, was taken off at half-time after suffering discomfort in his thigh. Coach Julen Lopetegui left him out of the Champions League squad to face CSKA Moscow on Tuesday. Madrid sports newspapers AS and Marca said tests on Monday showed Bale had no serious injury, adding he was expected to return to training on Thursday ahead of Saturday's game at Alaves. Lopetegui led Sunday's training, in which the starters against Atletico performed a recovery session. Isco, who recently underwent surgery for appendicitis, and Marcelo, who suffers a muscular problem, did not exercise on Sunday, while Alvaro Odriozola worked out normally. Vinicius Jr, who made his La Liga debut against Atletico, also joined the training and is looking to make his Champions League debut in Moscow.

Media reports say Gareth Bale fit and set for weekend return

<p>There are&nbsp;13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:</p>

<p><strong>Ledley King:</strong> Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.</p>

<p><strong>Theo Walcott:</strong> Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.</p>

<p><strong>Gareth Bale:</strong> Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.</p>

<p><strong>Steven Gerrard: </strong>It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.</p>

<p><strong>Tomas Rosicky: </strong>Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Neymar Jr:</strong> Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.</p>

<p><strong>John Terry:</strong> This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list.</p>

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<p><strong>Manuel Neuer:</strong> He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.</p>

<p><strong>Mario Gotze: </strong>It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Lionel Messi:</strong> Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Arjen Robben: </strong>Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.</p>

<p><strong>Andres Escobar: </strong>Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.</p>

<p><strong>Michael Ballack: </strong>One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.</p>


There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: 13 'unlucky' players in world football

<p>There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:</p>

<p><strong>Ledley King:</strong> Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.</p>

<p><strong>Theo Walcott:</strong> Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.</p>

<p><strong>Gareth Bale:</strong> Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.</p>

<p><strong>Steven Gerrard: </strong>It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.</p>

<p><strong>Tomas Rosicky: </strong>Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Neymar Jr:</strong> Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.</p>

<p><strong>John Terry:</strong>&nbsp;Watch the video to know why&nbsp;John Terry is included in this&nbsp;list.&nbsp;The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation.</p>

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<p><strong>Manuel Neuer:</strong> He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.</p>

<p><strong>Mario Gotze: </strong>It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Lionel Messi:</strong> Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Arjen Robben: </strong>Sometimes the greatness of a player is not&nbsp;compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin&nbsp;has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.</p>

<p><strong>Andres Escobar: </strong>Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.</p>

<p><strong>Michael Ballack: </strong>One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.</p>


There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: Watch the video to know why John Terry is included in this list. The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: List of 13 'unlucky' players in football world

<p>Frenchman Zinedine Zidane called a press conference on Thursday to announce that he has resigned from the post of Real Madrid's manager.</p>

<p>Zidane confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid this summer.</p>

<p>Twitter is overflowing with messages to bid farewell to one of the greatest Madrid's managers&nbsp;in history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was suspected that Zizou has called the press conference to tell the future of mentioned players but he gave a shocker instead.</p>

<p><em>Here are some Twitter reactions:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zidane: "My best time as Real Madrid coach was when we won La Liga, it was incredible. The worst moment was when we lost against Leganés in Copa del Rey."<br />
<br />
But according to Real Madrid fans, winning Champions League > Winning La Liga and Copa together.<br />
<a href="https://t.co/7J2aTejolD">pic.twitter.com/7J2aTejolD</a></p>
— Messi World (@MessiWorId) <a href="https://twitter.com/MessiWorId/status/1002151461680271360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zinedine Zidane as Real Madrid coach in two and a half year. (2016/2018)<br />
<br />
UEFA Champions League<br />
???<br />
UEFA Super Cup<br />
??<br />
Club World Cup<br />
?? <br />
Spanish Super Cup<br />
?<br />
La Liga<br />
?<br />
<br />
True legend. ⭐️ <a href="https://t.co/mEgjNXNS7n">pic.twitter.com/mEgjNXNS7n</a></p>
— ??????????  (@kakyuds) <a href="https://twitter.com/kakyuds/status/1002151419384741890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zidane's black magic was clearly wearing off as shown against Juve and Bayern. He's taking a break to recharge his black magic before coming back and winning 4 more UCL in a row</p>
— Lewis (@wannbec) <a href="https://twitter.com/wannbec/status/1002151356856139777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who should replace Zidane at Real Madrid? <a href="https://t.co/8foZ6I7ISD">pic.twitter.com/8foZ6I7ISD</a></p>
— Stadium Astro (@stadiumastro) <a href="https://twitter.com/stadiumastro/status/1002151656937603072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The whole press room on their feet applauding Zidane as he leaves. Fuck, this hurts! ?</p>
— SB (@Realmadridplace) <a href="https://twitter.com/Realmadridplace/status/1002152418891780097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zidane basically saying he's leaving because he doesn't see how he can keep the team winning next season. Incredibly rare and commendable honesty.</p>
— Andy West (@andywest01) <a href="https://twitter.com/andywest01/status/1002151721886519296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leave when the applause is loudest! Kudos Zidane!!! <a href="https://t.co/Zr46hKndGG">pic.twitter.com/Zr46hKndGG</a></p>
— Lexis Bill (@lexisbill) <a href="https://twitter.com/lexisbill/status/1002151752450404357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Someone convince this man to stay with us please ?? Zidane Quedate ? <a href="https://t.co/JebN5s04hB">pic.twitter.com/JebN5s04hB</a></p>
— Reyes de Europa¹³ (@imsask13) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsask13/status/1002150912658325505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Zidane leaves the press conference room and Real Madrid. There are no words that can give you your due. Thank you mister we wish you as much happiness as you brought us Madridistas. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GraciasZidane?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GraciasZidane</a> <a href="https://t.co/G65Pp6PlOm">pic.twitter.com/G65Pp6PlOm</a></p>
— Real Madrid Info (@RMadridInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridInfo/status/1002153010712268800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Zidane confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid this summer

Frenchman Zinedine Zidane called a press conference on Thursday to announce that he has resigned from the post of Real Madrid's manager. Zidane confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid this summer. Twitter is overflowing with messages to bid farewell to one of the greatest Madrid's managers in history. It was suspected that Zizou has called the press conference to tell the future of mentioned players but he gave a shocker instead. Here are some Twitter reactions: Zidane: "My best time as Real Madrid coach was when we won La Liga, it was incredible. The worst moment was when we lost against Leganés in Copa del Rey." But according to Real Madrid fans, winning Champions League > Winning La Liga and Copa together. pic.twitter.com/7J2aTejolD — Messi World (@MessiWorId) May 31, 2018 × Zinedine Zidane as Real Madrid coach in two and a half year. (2016/2018) UEFA Champions League ??? UEFA Super Cup ?? Club World Cup ??  Spanish Super Cup ? La Liga ? True legend. ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/mEgjNXNS7n — ??????????  (@kakyuds) May 31, 2018 × Zidane's black magic was clearly wearing off as shown against Juve and Bayern. He's taking a break to recharge his black magic before coming back and winning 4 more UCL in a row — Lewis (@wannbec) May 31, 2018 × Who should replace Zidane at Real Madrid? pic.twitter.com/8foZ6I7ISD — Stadium Astro (@stadiumastro) May 31, 2018 × The whole press room on their feet applauding Zidane as he leaves. Fuck, this hurts! ? — SB (@Realmadridplace) May 31, 2018 × Zidane basically saying he's leaving because he doesn't see how he can keep the team winning next season. Incredibly rare and commendable honesty. — Andy West (@andywest01) May 31, 2018 × Leave when the applause is loudest! Kudos Zidane!!! pic.twitter.com/Zr46hKndGG — Lexis Bill (@lexisbill) May 31, 2018 × Someone convince this man to stay with us please ?? Zidane Quedate ? pic.twitter.com/JebN5s04hB — Reyes de Europa¹³ (@imsask13) May 31, 2018 × Zidane leaves the press conference room and Real Madrid. There are no words that can give you your due. Thank you mister we wish you as much happiness as you brought us Madridistas. #GraciasZidane pic.twitter.com/G65Pp6PlOm — Real Madrid Info (@RMadridInfo) May 31, 2018 ×

Twitterati bids farewell to Real Madrid's coach Zinedine Zidane as he resigns

<p>Real Madrid beat Liverpool to clinch the European Cup for the third consecutive year. The credit goes to Welshman Gareth Bale who came off the bench to score twice, including a stunning overhead bicycle kick.</p>

<p>Bale was substituted in the 64th minute and scored a jaw-dropping reverse kick to produced an outstanding goal and gave Real 2-1 lead.</p>

<p>The goal proved vital for Real Madrid as Sadio Mane's equalizer had given winning hopes to the Reds after the dramatic start to the second half in which Karim Benzema gave Real the lead as a result of a Loris Karius howler.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-goalkeeping-errors-that-cost-liverpool-champions-league-title-140070">Watch: Goalkeeping errors that cost Liverpool Champions League title</a></strong></p>

<p>Another Karius' blooper happened just after few minutes as a disappointing and lose attempt to save Gareth Bale's splendid effort gave Real 3-1 lead.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video Gareth Bale's overhead bicycle kick here:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚽?? <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethBale11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarethBale11</a>, WHAT. A. GOAL!!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHAMP13NS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHAMP13NS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/1dciApRNyR">pic.twitter.com/1dciApRNyR</a></p>
— #CHAMP13NS ???? (@realmadriden) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden/status/1000666121085865984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bale’s crazy Bicycle Kick goal from a fans view ? How did you enjoy the game? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bale?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bale</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramos?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsLeagueFinal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsLeagueFinal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Liverpool?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Liverpool</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/APorLa13?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#APorLa13</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Lo1iN2tfL">pic.twitter.com/6Lo1iN2tfL</a></p>
— TheSkillShow (@TheSkillShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSkillShow/status/1000559383774945284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jurgen Klopp's and Liverpool's own evening was marred by the loss of a distraught Mohamed Salah to injury in the first half, the Egyptian coming off half an hour in having damaged his shoulder.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/over-15-lakh-sign-petition-urging-punish-sergio-ramos-for-intentionally-hurting-mohamed-salah-140172">Over 1.5 lakh sign petition urging, 'punish Sergio Ramos for intentionally hurting Mohamed Salah'</a></strong></p>

<p>This was not to be Salah's night, with Real allowing Zinedine Zidane to become the first coach ever to win the Champions League three years in a row.</p>


Gareth Bale came off the bench to score twice, including one of the all-time great goals in a Champions League final

Real Madrid beat Liverpool to clinch the European Cup for the third consecutive year. The credit goes to Welshman Gareth Bale who came off the bench to score twice, including a stunning overhead bicycle kick. Bale was substituted in the 64th minute and scored a jaw-dropping reverse kick to produced an outstanding goal and gave Real 2-1 lead. The goal proved vital for Real Madrid as Sadio Mane's equalizer had given winning hopes to the Reds after the dramatic start to the second half in which Karim Benzema gave Real the lead as a result of a Loris Karius howler. Watch: Goalkeeping errors that cost Liverpool Champions League title Another Karius' blooper happened just after few minutes as a disappointing and lose attempt to save Gareth Bale's splendid effort gave Real 3-1 lead. Watch the video Gareth Bale's overhead bicycle kick here: ⚽?? @GarethBale11, WHAT. A. GOAL!!!#CHAMP13NS | #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/1dciApRNyR — #CHAMP13NS ???? (@realmadriden) May 27, 2018 × Bale’s crazy Bicycle Kick goal from a fans view ? How did you enjoy the game? #Bale #Ramos #ChampionsLeagueFinal #Liverpool #APorLa13 pic.twitter.com/6Lo1iN2tfL — TheSkillShow (@TheSkillShow) May 27, 2018 × Jurgen Klopp's and Liverpool's own evening was marred by the loss of a distraught Mohamed Salah to injury in the first half, the Egyptian coming off half an hour in having damaged his shoulder. Over 1.5 lakh sign petition urging, 'punish Sergio Ramos for intentionally hurting Mohamed Salah' This was not to be Salah's night, with Real allowing Zinedine Zidane to become the first coach ever to win the Champions League three years in a row.

Watch: Gareth Bale's stunning & jaw-dropping overhead bicycle kick

<p>Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale scored a jaw-dropping overhead kick and a long distance strike to give them a 3-1 win over Liverpool in the Champions League final on Saturday (May 26), delivering a remarkable third consecutive title for the Spaniards.</p>

<p>Substitute Bale, who also scored in Real's 2014 final win over Atletico Madrid, had only been on the pitch for three minutes when he rose to meet Marcelo's cross in the air from outside the box, sending it flying into the net to restore Real's lead in the 64th minute at the NSC Olympic Stadium.</p>

<p>French forward Karim Benzema had put Madrid ahead in the 51st minute by sticking out a leg as Liverpool's German keeper Karius attempted to throw the ball to a team mate, sending it trickling over the line, but Sadio Mane levelled from close range in the 55th for Juergen Klopp's side.</p>

<p>Bale then sealed Madrid's record-extending 13th European Cup win and piled more misery on Karius with a long-range strike in the 83rd minute which went straight through the hands of the hapless goalkeeper.</p>

<p>Real become the first side since Bayern Munich in 1976 to win the trophy three years in a row and Zinedine Zidane the is the first coach to win three back-to-back titles.</p>

<p>Liverpool's talismanic forward Mohamed Salah was forced off in the first half with a suspected dislocated shoulder after tangling with Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, while Real defender Dani Carvajal also left the pitch in tears after getting injured before halftime.</p>


Real become the first side since Bayern Munich in 1976 to win the trophy three years in a row and Zinedine Zidane the is the first coach to win three back-to-back titles.

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale scored a jaw-dropping overhead kick and a long distance strike to give them a 3-1 win over Liverpool in the Champions League final on Saturday (May 26), delivering a remarkable third consecutive title for the Spaniards. Substitute Bale, who also scored in Real's 2014 final win over Atletico Madrid, had only been on the pitch for three minutes when he rose to meet Marcelo's cross in the air from outside the box, sending it flying into the net to restore Real's lead in the 64th minute at the NSC Olympic Stadium. French forward Karim Benzema had put Madrid ahead in the 51st minute by sticking out a leg as Liverpool's German keeper Karius attempted to throw the ball to a team mate, sending it trickling over the line, but Sadio Mane levelled from close range in the 55th for Juergen Klopp's side. Bale then sealed Madrid's record-extending 13th European Cup win and piled more misery on Karius with a long-range strike in the 83rd minute which went straight through the hands of the hapless goalkeeper. Real become the first side since Bayern Munich in 1976 to win the trophy three years in a row and Zinedine Zidane the is the first coach to win three back-to-back titles. Liverpool's talismanic forward Mohamed Salah was forced off in the first half with a suspected dislocated shoulder after tangling with Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, while Real defender Dani Carvajal also left the pitch in tears after getting injured before halftime.

Champions League: Super Bale sinks Liverpool as Madrid make it three in a row

<p>Real Madrid's winger Gareth Bale and fiancee Emma Rhys-Jones are blessed with a baby boy on Tuesday, May 8. The couple has two beautiful daughters, 5-year-old Alba Violet and 2-year-old Nava Valentina.</p>

<p>The Welsh star footballer took to social networking sites to announce this exciting news. He posted a very cute picture of his newly born son with the caption, "We are delighted to welcome a baby boy into our family this morning. Axel Charles Bale 08.05.18."</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0 padding:0 4px"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bigsr8tlmV8/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">We are delighted to welcome a baby boy into our family this morning. Axel Charles Bale 08.05.18 ???</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/garethbale11/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Gareth Bale</a> (@garethbale11) on <time datetime="2018-05-08T09:09:49+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 8, 2018 at 2:09am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Wishes have poured in from all the sides and fans and followers have sent their wishes and love to the couple and baby Axel.</p>

<p>Where greetings have arrived from all the direction, few people have reacted to the unusual name that he has given to his newly born baby.</p>

<p>The name "Axel" is appearing a bit odd to many fans, it is looking like he has misspelled "Alex."</p>

<p>The 28-year-old is set to marry his childhood sweetheart later this year. Both have been together for almost 10 years after meeting while attending Whitchurch High School.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Axel ???</p>
— K Payne (@KeithPayneno3) <a href="https://twitter.com/KeithPayneno3/status/994156909744807936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Axel Bale could well be the coolest three-syllable name out there. <a href="https://t.co/RNW1hcBysO">https://t.co/RNW1hcBysO</a></p>
— Rahul W (@rahulw_) <a href="https://twitter.com/rahulw_/status/993784746818732032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You spelled Alex wrong there mate</p>
— ?‍♀️ Matt ??‍♂️ (@mrperson77) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrperson77/status/993790794157953024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well done. Mrs B Gareth go win the champions league for the boy</p>
— Geoff Ellis (@GeoffEllis9) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeoffEllis9/status/994160087949369344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Real Madrid's winger Gareth Bale and fiancee Emma Rhys-Jones had a baby boy on May 8

Real Madrid's winger Gareth Bale and fiancee Emma Rhys-Jones are blessed with a baby boy on Tuesday, May 8. The couple has two beautiful daughters, 5-year-old Alba Violet and 2-year-old Nava Valentina. The Welsh star footballer took to social networking sites to announce this exciting news. He posted a very cute picture of his newly born son with the caption, "We are delighted to welcome a baby boy into our family this morning. Axel Charles Bale 08.05.18." We are delighted to welcome a baby boy into our family this morning. Axel Charles Bale 08.05.18 ??? A post shared by Gareth Bale (@garethbale11) on May 8, 2018 at 2:09am PDT × Wishes have poured in from all the sides and fans and followers have sent their wishes and love to the couple and baby Axel. Where greetings have arrived from all the direction, few people have reacted to the unusual name that he has given to his newly born baby. The name "Axel" is appearing a bit odd to many fans, it is looking like he has misspelled "Alex." The 28-year-old is set to marry his childhood sweetheart later this year. Both have been together for almost 10 years after meeting while attending Whitchurch High School. Axel ??? — K Payne (@KeithPayneno3) May 9, 2018 × Axel Bale could well be the coolest three-syllable name out there. https://t.co/RNW1hcBysO — Rahul W (@rahulw_) May 8, 2018 × You spelled Alex wrong there mate — ?‍♀️ Matt ??‍♂️ (@mrperson77) May 8, 2018 × Well done. Mrs B Gareth go win the champions league for the boy — Geoff Ellis (@GeoffEllis9) May 9, 2018 ×

Gareth Bale announces birth of baby boy; Twitter divided over unusual name

<p>La Liga champions FC Barcelona continued its winning streak after drawing 2-2 against Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Sunday in an ill-tempered and highly charged "El Clasico."</p>

<p>Despite the fact that Barcelona already won the La Liga title, the normal league match saw a total of 28 fouls, eight yellow cards and&nbsp;a red card. Maybe this is the reason why El Clasico is the most celebrated rivalry&nbsp;worldwide.</p>

<p>Other than the two teams, the referee Hernandez Hernandez is being criticised for ignoring several fouls that could have changed the result.</p>

<p>Barca striker Luis Suarez scored the first goal and gave a 1-0 lead in the 10th minute which was equalised just after four minutes by Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo.</p>

<p>In the second half, Lionel Messi scored a stunner to give 2-1 lead but Madrid's forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions a victory.</p>

<p>The match concluded with several controversies with both the teams playing a rough game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barca mid-fielder Sergio Roberto was given a red card for his unacceptable&nbsp;encounter with Marcelo.</p>

<p>Apart from verbal altercations and deliberate fouls, there were few incidents which referee ignored or missed completely and now they are being highlighted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ramos: “Knowing Luis Suarez, I made clear that we wouldn't put the ball out of play.” [Marca] <a href="https://t.co/m1yrt0Np4p">pic.twitter.com/m1yrt0Np4p</a></p>
— Real Madrid Info (@RMadridInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridInfo/status/993357376412618757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the 52nd minute, Luis Suarez made a clear foul while tackling Real's defender Varane but was somehow ignored by the referee. The tackle resulted positively for Barca as Messi took advantage of the pass and scored in the extreme left of the net and stunned&nbsp;Real's goalkeeper Keylor Navas.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">how is this not a foul ladies and gentlemen <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElClasico?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElClasico</a> <a href="https://t.co/8dxvjMaEZH">pic.twitter.com/8dxvjMaEZH</a></p>
— Buzz (@GHfollowtrain) <a href="https://twitter.com/GHfollowtrain/status/993235777143427072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In another shocking event, Gareth Bale hit Barca defender Umtiti which went unpunished.</p>

<p>Jordi Alba grabbed Luka Modric by his neck which went unnoticed and Alba easily&nbsp;got away.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who does he think he is?? You can't grab Luka Modric by the neck!!! <a href="https://t.co/JK85wmpzyS">pic.twitter.com/JK85wmpzyS</a></p>
— Florentino Pérez (@RealFloPerez) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealFloPerez/status/993247624080838656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also, a penalty by Jordi Alba was snubbed by a foul whistle that narrowed the Real chances to win the match when he pushed Marcelo. His&nbsp;spat with Marcelo also went unseen.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Robbery Part 2: Ask any football fan, This is 100% Penalty and a straight Red Card for Jordi Alba. <a href="https://t.co/isbFYGGLX4">pic.twitter.com/isbFYGGLX4</a></p>
— RMadridBabe (@RMadridBabe) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridBabe/status/993226143024238593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Barcelona had their best&nbsp;chance when mid-fielder Ivan Rakitic was heading towards the goal but was given an invalid offside.</p>

<p>The list of incidents reflects on the urgent need of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in extremely intense matches such as "El Clasico."&nbsp;</p>


The Barcelona-Real clash Sunday night saw 28 fouls, one grabbing of the neck, one red card, and eight yellows

La Liga champions FC Barcelona continued its winning streak after drawing 2-2 against Real Madrid at Camp Nou on Sunday in an ill-tempered and highly charged "El Clasico." Despite the fact that Barcelona already won the La Liga title, the normal league match saw a total of 28 fouls, eight yellow cards and a red card. Maybe this is the reason why El Clasico is the most celebrated rivalry worldwide. Other than the two teams, the referee Hernandez Hernandez is being criticised for ignoring several fouls that could have changed the result. Barca striker Luis Suarez scored the first goal and gave a 1-0 lead in the 10th minute which was equalised just after four minutes by Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo. In the second half, Lionel Messi scored a stunner to give 2-1 lead but Madrid's forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions a victory. The match concluded with several controversies with both the teams playing a rough game. Barca mid-fielder Sergio Roberto was given a red card for his unacceptable encounter with Marcelo. Apart from verbal altercations and deliberate fouls, there were few incidents which referee ignored or missed completely and now they are being highlighted. Ramos: “Knowing Luis Suarez, I made clear that we wouldn't put the ball out of play.” [Marca] pic.twitter.com/m1yrt0Np4p — Real Madrid Info (@RMadridInfo) May 7, 2018 × In the 52nd minute, Luis Suarez made a clear foul while tackling Real's defender Varane but was somehow ignored by the referee. The tackle resulted positively for Barca as Messi took advantage of the pass and scored in the extreme left of the net and stunned Real's goalkeeper Keylor Navas. how is this not a foul ladies and gentlemen #ElClasico pic.twitter.com/8dxvjMaEZH — Buzz (@GHfollowtrain) May 6, 2018 × In another shocking event, Gareth Bale hit Barca defender Umtiti which went unpunished. Jordi Alba grabbed Luka Modric by his neck which went unnoticed and Alba easily got away. Who does he think he is?? You can't grab Luka Modric by the neck!!! pic.twitter.com/JK85wmpzyS — Florentino Pérez (@RealFloPerez) May 6, 2018 × Also, a penalty by Jordi Alba was snubbed by a foul whistle that narrowed the Real chances to win the match when he pushed Marcelo. His spat with Marcelo also went unseen. Robbery Part 2: Ask any football fan, This is 100% Penalty and a straight Red Card for Jordi Alba. pic.twitter.com/isbFYGGLX4 — RMadridBabe (@RMadridBabe) May 6, 2018 × Barcelona had their best chance when mid-fielder Ivan Rakitic was heading towards the goal but was given an invalid offside. The list of incidents reflects on the urgent need of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in extremely intense matches such as "El Clasico."

'El Clasico' not so classic: Other times the referee got it wrong

<p>Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions Barcelona victory in an ill-tempered 'Clasico' which finished 2-2 at the Nou Camp on Sunday (May 6) after the home side had Sergi Roberto sent off at the end of the first half.</p>

<p>Luis Suarez volleyed unbeaten Barca into the lead after 10 minutes following a gut-busting run and cross from Roberto while Cristiano Ronaldo levelled for Champions League finalists Real five minutes later from close range.</p>

<p>However, the Portugal forward's ankle was trodden on by Gerard Pique in the process and he was substituted at halftime. Coach Zinedine Zidane said the injury was "a small thing" and Ronaldo will be fit for the Champions League final.</p>

<p>Bale had risked getting sent off for raking his studs against Samuel Umtiti's leg but escaped without a booking on that occasion and Roberto was sent off moments later for hitting Marcelo following an off-the-ball tussle.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi scored a mesmerising, record-extending 26th Clasico goal to put 10-man Barca back in front after 52 minutes but Bale, who had contributed little, silenced the Nou Camp with a thumping strike from the edge of the area in the 72nd.</p>

<p>Champions Barca have 87 points while Real are third in the Liga standings with 72 after 35 games. Atletico Madrid, who lost their unbeaten home record in a 2-0 defeat by Espanyol erlier on Sunday, are second on 75 but have played one game more.</p>

<p>This was the first 'Clasico' in a decade which had no bearing on the title race but the game was still played with all the usual passion and tension which makes it the most famous club fixture in Europe.</p>

<p>Referee Alejando Hernandez Hernandez showed a total of eight yellow cards as well as the straight red for Roberto.</p>

<p>Bale was eventually booked as was the usually even-tempered Messi, who made an uncharacteristically aggressive challenge on Sergio Ramos after the Real captain had an ugly confrontation with Suarez which led to both players getting yellow cards.</p>

<p>Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later.</p>

<p>Both sides pushed for a winner and Real could have had a penalty when Jordi Alba caught Marcelo but Barca clung on to remain unbeaten in the league with three games to go.</p>

<p>Barcelona's players remained on the pitch after the game to celebrate their double success with the home fans, having clinched the title last week at Deportivo La Coruna and won the King's Cup final against Sevilla on April 21.</p>

<p>Real refused to offer the traditional guard of honour to the champions before the game so Barca defender Gerard Pique asked the Catalan club's coaching staff to form two lines either side of his team mates as they left the pitch.</p>


Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later.

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale lashed home to deny La Liga champions Barcelona victory in an ill-tempered 'Clasico' which finished 2-2 at the Nou Camp on Sunday (May 6) after the home side had Sergi Roberto sent off at the end of the first half. Luis Suarez volleyed unbeaten Barca into the lead after 10 minutes following a gut-busting run and cross from Roberto while Cristiano Ronaldo levelled for Champions League finalists Real five minutes later from close range. However, the Portugal forward's ankle was trodden on by Gerard Pique in the process and he was substituted at halftime. Coach Zinedine Zidane said the injury was "a small thing" and Ronaldo will be fit for the Champions League final. Bale had risked getting sent off for raking his studs against Samuel Umtiti's leg but escaped without a booking on that occasion and Roberto was sent off moments later for hitting Marcelo following an off-the-ball tussle. Lionel Messi scored a mesmerising, record-extending 26th Clasico goal to put 10-man Barca back in front after 52 minutes but Bale, who had contributed little, silenced the Nou Camp with a thumping strike from the edge of the area in the 72nd. Champions Barca have 87 points while Real are third in the Liga standings with 72 after 35 games. Atletico Madrid, who lost their unbeaten home record in a 2-0 defeat by Espanyol erlier on Sunday, are second on 75 but have played one game more. This was the first 'Clasico' in a decade which had no bearing on the title race but the game was still played with all the usual passion and tension which makes it the most famous club fixture in Europe. Referee Alejando Hernandez Hernandez showed a total of eight yellow cards as well as the straight red for Roberto. Bale was eventually booked as was the usually even-tempered Messi, who made an uncharacteristically aggressive challenge on Sergio Ramos after the Real captain had an ugly confrontation with Suarez which led to both players getting yellow cards. Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later. Both sides pushed for a winner and Real could have had a penalty when Jordi Alba caught Marcelo but Barca clung on to remain unbeaten in the league with three games to go. Barcelona's players remained on the pitch after the game to celebrate their double success with the home fans, having clinched the title last week at Deportivo La Coruna and won the King's Cup final against Sevilla on April 21. Real refused to offer the traditional guard of honour to the champions before the game so Barca defender Gerard Pique asked the Catalan club's coaching staff to form two lines either side of his team mates as they left the pitch.

El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in ill-tempered draw

<p>Real Madrid, the defending champions, had a dream-like season last year but this year, the performance is not up to the mark. Currently, they are 15 points behind rivals and table leader FC Barcelona.</p>

<p>But they certainly played well in the Champions League, recently, Real Madrid showed their collective strength in a clinical 2-1 win over Paris St Germain, with this win, they have entered the quarter-finals of the tournament</p>

<p>Now, Real Madrid is looking forward to maintaining the same momentum in their domestic away form when they travel to face Eibar on Saturday.</p>

<p>This season, Real faced a hoodoo of injuries, from Sergio Ramos to Gareth Bale. In a recent press conference, Zinedine Zidane talked about Gareth Bale form and injury.</p>

<p><em>Watch&nbsp;Gareth Bale trains with the teammates:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">⚽???? &iexcl;Ha comenzado nuestro &uacute;ltimo entrenamiento antes del partido de este s&aacute;bado contra el <a href="https://twitter.com/SDEibar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDEibar</a>! Sigue toda la actualidad del equipo en la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RMCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RMCity</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/3lICTv1tq6">pic.twitter.com/3lICTv1tq6</a></p>
&mdash; Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/972057185546063872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;No, he&#39;s not a problem, we talk, I talk to him and he&#39;s not a problem.&quot;</p>

<p>He also added, &quot;He knows where he is and that the rest of the players are important too, that&#39;s all.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;What I&#39;m trying to say is that there&#39;s no problem. You want to make this a problem but there is no problem,&quot; he responded to a journalist.</p>

<p>&quot;I have to choose a team every three days, and Gareth is important for me but there are other players who are important too, that&#39;s all,&quot; he mentioned that every player is important.</p>

<p><em>Real Madrid arrived in&nbsp;Bilbao to play against Eibar on Saturday:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">????????????&iexcl;Ya estamos en Bilbao! &iexcl;Mira la c&aacute;lida bienvenida que nos brindaron en el aeropuerto y el hotel de concentraci&oacute;n nuestros <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RMFans?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RMFans</a>! <a href="https://t.co/Zo99AoVUgu">pic.twitter.com/Zo99AoVUgu</a></p>
&mdash; Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/972202573083152386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">???? &iexcl;Todos a bordo del avi&oacute;n con destino Bilbao! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RMLiga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RMLiga</a> <a href="https://t.co/jm8uwhZBHX">pic.twitter.com/jm8uwhZBHX</a></p>
&mdash; Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/972177702198304769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Real Madrid is looking forward to maintaining the winning momentum in their domestic away form when they travel to face Eibar

Real Madrid, the defending champions, had a dream-like season last year but this year, the performance is not up to the mark. Currently, they are 15 points behind rivals and table leader FC Barcelona. But they certainly played well in the Champions League, recently, Real Madrid showed their collective strength in a clinical 2-1 win over Paris St Germain, with this win, they have entered the quarter-finals of the tournament Now, Real Madrid is looking forward to maintaining the same momentum in their domestic away form when they travel to face Eibar on Saturday. This season, Real faced a hoodoo of injuries, from Sergio Ramos to Gareth Bale. In a recent press conference, Zinedine Zidane talked about Gareth Bale form and injury. Watch Gareth Bale trains with the teammates: ⚽???? ¡Ha comenzado nuestro último entrenamiento antes del partido de este sábado contra el @SDEibar! Sigue toda la actualidad del equipo en la #RMCity.#HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/3lICTv1tq6 — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 9, 2018 × "No, he's not a problem, we talk, I talk to him and he's not a problem." He also added, "He knows where he is and that the rest of the players are important too, that's all." "What I'm trying to say is that there's no problem. You want to make this a problem but there is no problem," he responded to a journalist. "I have to choose a team every three days, and Gareth is important for me but there are other players who are important too, that's all," he mentioned that every player is important. Real Madrid arrived in Bilbao to play against Eibar on Saturday: ????????????¡Ya estamos en Bilbao! ¡Mira la cálida bienvenida que nos brindaron en el aeropuerto y el hotel de concentración nuestros #RMFans! pic.twitter.com/Zo99AoVUgu — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 9, 2018 × ???? ¡Todos a bordo del avión con destino Bilbao! ???? #RMLiga pic.twitter.com/jm8uwhZBHX — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 9, 2018 ×

Bale's injury is 'not a problem': Zinedine Zidane

<p>Zizou is already going through a difficult phase as his team is not performing up to the mark and now Gareth Bale&#39;s injury is giving extra tensions to the Frenchman. Bale <span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">has been plagued by injuries during his time at Real.</span><span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">&nbsp;Zidane urged that he just wanted to see Bale &quot;100&nbsp;</span>per cent<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">&nbsp;well&quot;.&nbsp;</span>Real Madrid, the defending champions, is definitely not having the dream run. Few matches before, even there were speculations that&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">Zinedine Zidane</span>&#39;s future as Real&#39;s coach is doubtful. Though, it is not justified to blame the former French striker completely as there were other reasons as well for Madrid&#39;s poor performance. Madrid&#39;s football depended a lot on the quality of players they had, rather than a philosophy of play. Now the players are not performing, that is a problem. Karim Benzema, like Ronaldo, has found it hard to score this season in the previous clash of Champions League against Paris-Saint Germain Ronaldo broke the jinx. While Toni Kroos has not been as accurate as usual with his passes in the middle of the pitch.</p>

<p>Currently, Barcelona is at the top of La Liga table and third-placed Real Madrid are still hopeful of catching neighbours Atletico Madrid, who are seven points above them in second.</p>

<p>Zidane rested a number of key players in their 3-1 victory over Leganes in La Liga mid-week, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, but may well play a full-strength side against Alaves on Saturday (24th February), who have won their last three La Liga games.</p>

<p>Bale has been the subject of much recent media speculation, amid reports that Real may try to offload the Wales international this summer.</p>

<p>On the transfer news, Zidane said, &quot;I don&#39;t know, you should ask him. I do the same thing with all the players, including Gareth.</p>

<p>He also mentioned, &quot;He&#39;s doing well in training, he&#39;s committed, but I want to see Gareth 100 per cent well, I don&#39;t want to lose him again.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;In every player I evaluate their form, how they feel, everything. Many factors are taken into consideration. You ask the question, but there are many things to bear in mind,&quot; Real Madrid&#39;s coach added.</p>

<p>&quot;But I&#39;m sure Gareth will&nbsp; continue to play an important role. He hasn&#39;t played recently because he&acute;s been injured, but he will, like the other players.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Bale has been the subject of much recent media speculation, amid reports that Real may try to offload the Wales international this summer

Zizou is already going through a difficult phase as his team is not performing up to the mark and now Gareth Bale's injury is giving extra tensions to the Frenchman. Bale has been plagued by injuries during his time at Real. Zidane urged that he just wanted to see Bale "100 per cent well". Real Madrid, the defending champions, is definitely not having the dream run. Few matches before, even there were speculations that Zinedine Zidane's future as Real's coach is doubtful. Though, it is not justified to blame the former French striker completely as there were other reasons as well for Madrid's poor performance. Madrid's football depended a lot on the quality of players they had, rather than a philosophy of play. Now the players are not performing, that is a problem. Karim Benzema, like Ronaldo, has found it hard to score this season in the previous clash of Champions League against Paris-Saint Germain Ronaldo broke the jinx. While Toni Kroos has not been as accurate as usual with his passes in the middle of the pitch. Currently, Barcelona is at the top of La Liga table and third-placed Real Madrid are still hopeful of catching neighbours Atletico Madrid, who are seven points above them in second. Zidane rested a number of key players in their 3-1 victory over Leganes in La Liga mid-week, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, but may well play a full-strength side against Alaves on Saturday (24th February), who have won their last three La Liga games. Bale has been the subject of much recent media speculation, amid reports that Real may try to offload the Wales international this summer. On the transfer news, Zidane said, "I don't know, you should ask him. I do the same thing with all the players, including Gareth. He also mentioned, "He's doing well in training, he's committed, but I want to see Gareth 100 per cent well, I don't want to lose him again." "In every player I evaluate their form, how they feel, everything. Many factors are taken into consideration. You ask the question, but there are many things to bear in mind," Real Madrid's coach added. "But I'm sure Gareth will continue to play an important role. He hasn't played recently because he´s been injured, but he will, like the other players."

Gareth Bale's injury concerns Zidane

<p>Zinedine Zidane praised goal-scorers Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted twice in a 3-1 victory as Real Madrid finally claimed a Champions League win at Borussia Dortmund.</p>

<p>Ronaldo marked his 150th European game with second-half goals after Bale&#39;s stunning early volley gave Real the lead at Dortmund&#39;s Signal Iduna Park</p>

<p>Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored Dortmund&#39;s consolation goal with just over half an hour left, but the Germans were simply out-played by holders Real.</p>

<p>Having also netted twice against APOEL, Ronaldo has now scored four goals in just two Champions League games this season.</p>

<p>&quot;I&rsquo;m happy for Cristiano... again! I&rsquo;m delighted for Ronaldo and Bale,&quot; said Zidane.</p>

<p>This is the first time Dortmund have lost at home to Real in seven European games while holders Madrid have now scored in 38 successive Champion League games.</p>

<p>&quot;It is difficult to play in this stadium, we have never won here, so this victory was important to us, and the whole game was good for us from start to finish,&quot; said Zidane.</p>

<p>&quot;We had a lot of ball possession, that was the key.</p>

<p>&quot;Dortmund played as impressively as ever, but we compensated well.&quot;</p>

<p>Dortmund shaded possession and matched Real&#39;s tally of 16 shots on goal and Zidane wanted to see more chances converted.</p>

<p>&quot;We could have scored more. We had chances. The important thing is to score more than our opponents and we did that,&quot; said the Frenchman.</p>

<p>&quot;The side worked hard - Isco, (Luka) Modric, Casemiro and (Toni) Kroos were marvellous.</p>

<p>&quot;Everyone was brilliant. It was a tremendous game.&quot;</p>

<p>The result leaves Real top of Group H, just ahead of Tottenham Hotspur, who beat APOEL 3-0 away, with Dortmund third and six points adrift of Spurs, who they also lost 3-1 to in London.</p>

<p>Dortmund coach Peter Bosz gave an honest appraisal of his team, who were better than Real in virtually every statistic - apart from the scoreboard.</p>

<p>&quot;We defend with 11 players and we attack with 11 players,&quot; said the Dutchman, whose Dortmund shaded possession and match Real&#39;s 16 shots on goal.</p>

<p>&quot;We were just too late against a side who barely made a mistake and we have to defend better.</p>

<p>&quot;We didn&#39;t put any pressure on the ball during the game and it&#39;s difficult against an opponent like that.</p>

<p>&quot;We were always too late, we have to analyse the performance and do better in the future.</p>

<p>Dortmund should have been awarded a penalty with 13 minutes gone when Real captain Sergio Ramos cleared Maximilian Philipp&#39;s shot off the line and the ball deflected off his hand.</p>

<p>&quot;That was clearly a handball in the first-half, but we deserved to lose,&quot; admitted Bosz.</p>


Zinedine Zidane praised goal-scorers Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted twice in a 3-1 victory as Real Madrid finally claimed a Champions League win at Borussia Dortmund

Zinedine Zidane praised goal-scorers Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted twice in a 3-1 victory as Real Madrid finally claimed a Champions League win at Borussia Dortmund. Ronaldo marked his 150th European game with second-half goals after Bale's stunning early volley gave Real the lead at Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored Dortmund's consolation goal with just over half an hour left, but the Germans were simply out-played by holders Real. Having also netted twice against APOEL, Ronaldo has now scored four goals in just two Champions League games this season. "I’m happy for Cristiano... again! I’m delighted for Ronaldo and Bale," said Zidane. This is the first time Dortmund have lost at home to Real in seven European games while holders Madrid have now scored in 38 successive Champion League games. "It is difficult to play in this stadium, we have never won here, so this victory was important to us, and the whole game was good for us from start to finish," said Zidane. "We had a lot of ball possession, that was the key. "Dortmund played as impressively as ever, but we compensated well." Dortmund shaded possession and matched Real's tally of 16 shots on goal and Zidane wanted to see more chances converted. "We could have scored more. We had chances. The important thing is to score more than our opponents and we did that," said the Frenchman. "The side worked hard - Isco, (Luka) Modric, Casemiro and (Toni) Kroos were marvellous. "Everyone was brilliant. It was a tremendous game." The result leaves Real top of Group H, just ahead of Tottenham Hotspur, who beat APOEL 3-0 away, with Dortmund third and six points adrift of Spurs, who they also lost 3-1 to in London. Dortmund coach Peter Bosz gave an honest appraisal of his team, who were better than Real in virtually every statistic - apart from the scoreboard. "We defend with 11 players and we attack with 11 players," said the Dutchman, whose Dortmund shaded possession and match Real's 16 shots on goal. "We were just too late against a side who barely made a mistake and we have to defend better. "We didn't put any pressure on the ball during the game and it's difficult against an opponent like that. "We were always too late, we have to analyse the performance and do better in the future. Dortmund should have been awarded a penalty with 13 minutes gone when Real captain Sergio Ramos cleared Maximilian Philipp's shot off the line and the ball deflected off his hand. "That was clearly a handball in the first-half, but we deserved to lose," admitted Bosz.

Football: Zidane hails Bale, Ronaldo as Real win at Dortmund

<p>Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has sent a message in the direction of UEFA Super Cup opponents Real Madrid by declaring his readiness to bring Gareth Bale to Old Trafford.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters in the Macedonian capital of Skopje on Monday, Mourinho said he would wait to see what Bale&#39;s role in Tuesday&#39;s match was before deciding whether the Welshman was worth pursuing.</p>

<p>&quot;If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won&#39;t even think about it,&quot; said Mourinho of the 28-year-old.</p>

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<h5>If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won&#39;t even think about it,&#39; Mourinho said of the 28-year-old</h5>
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<p>&quot;If he is not in the club&#39;s plans and it is true that a player like Bale is at the departure gate, I will try to be there waiting for him at the other side.</p>

<p>&quot;But if he plays tomorrow it is the clearest signal that he is staying there.&quot;</p>

<p>Bale moved to the Spanish capital from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 for a then world record fee of 100.8 million euros.</p>

<p>However, injuries restricted his involvement during last season&#39;s run-in and he was only a substitute in Real&#39;s 4-1 Champions League final win over Juventus in Cardiff.</p>

<p>He has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu with Real among the clubs fighting for the signature of Monaco forward Kylian Mbappe.</p>

<p>The French teenager has been linked with a 180 million-euro ($212 million, &pound;163 million) transfer although Manchester City are also keen and Paris Saint-Germain are believed to want him to play alongside their world record recruit Neymar.</p>

<p>United have already splashed out close to &pound;150 million in this transfer window on three players -- Swedish defender Victor Lindelof from Benfica, Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic from Chelsea and Everton striker Romelu Lukaku.</p>

<p>Matic is the most recent arrival and Mourinho admitted he is unlikely to have more than a limited role in Tuesday&#39;s game at the Philip II Arena, which pitches last season&#39;s Europa League winners United against the reigning European champions.</p>

<p>Mourinho also confirmed that, while Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young are on the sidelines, Tim Fosu-Mensah did not travel to the Balkans with the squad because he is set to seal a loan move away from the club.</p>

<p>Eric Bailly is still suspended in Europe following his red card in the Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo in May and fellow defender Phil Jones is banned too.</p>

<p>His suspension is the result of a run-in with an anti-doping official after United&#39;s Europa League final win over Ajax in Stockholm at the end of last season.</p>

<p>&quot;I was expecting that the appeal would be negative,&quot; said Mourinho, who is preparing to come up against the club he coached for three years before leaving in 2013.</p>

<p>&quot;The only thing I hope is that tomorrow, the team that wins, if some team wants to celebrate, a player wants to get his medal, enjoy with his teammates, I just expect that the doping committee sends somebody with him and doesn&#39;t close him in a room and forbid the guy to enjoy a special moment.&quot;</p>

<p>Jones was given a two-game suspension for insulting an official and was fined 5,000 euros after staying on the pitch to celebrate his team&#39;s win rather than going straight to a doping control.&nbsp;</p>


Mourinho's Manchester United will play Real Madrid -- Bale's team -- in the Eufa Super Cup final early Wednesday morning

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has sent a message in the direction of UEFA Super Cup opponents Real Madrid by declaring his readiness to bring Gareth Bale to Old Trafford. Speaking to reporters in the Macedonian capital of Skopje on Monday, Mourinho said he would wait to see what Bale's role in Tuesday's match was before deciding whether the Welshman was worth pursuing. "If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won't even think about it," said Mourinho of the 28-year-old. If he plays tomorrow it is because he is in the plans of the coach and the club, and it is in his own plans and ambitions to stay there. Then I won't even think about it,' Mourinho said of the 28-year-old × "If he is not in the club's plans and it is true that a player like Bale is at the departure gate, I will try to be there waiting for him at the other side. "But if he plays tomorrow it is the clearest signal that he is staying there." Bale moved to the Spanish capital from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 for a then world record fee of 100.8 million euros. However, injuries restricted his involvement during last season's run-in and he was only a substitute in Real's 4-1 Champions League final win over Juventus in Cardiff. He has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu with Real among the clubs fighting for the signature of Monaco forward Kylian Mbappe. The French teenager has been linked with a 180 million-euro ($212 million, £163 million) transfer although Manchester City are also keen and Paris Saint-Germain are believed to want him to play alongside their world record recruit Neymar. United have already splashed out close to £150 million in this transfer window on three players -- Swedish defender Victor Lindelof from Benfica, Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic from Chelsea and Everton striker Romelu Lukaku. Matic is the most recent arrival and Mourinho admitted he is unlikely to have more than a limited role in Tuesday's game at the Philip II Arena, which pitches last season's Europa League winners United against the reigning European champions. Mourinho also confirmed that, while Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young are on the sidelines, Tim Fosu-Mensah did not travel to the Balkans with the squad because he is set to seal a loan move away from the club. Eric Bailly is still suspended in Europe following his red card in the Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo in May and fellow defender Phil Jones is banned too. His suspension is the result of a run-in with an anti-doping official after United's Europa League final win over Ajax in Stockholm at the end of last season. "I was expecting that the appeal would be negative," said Mourinho, who is preparing to come up against the club he coached for three years before leaving in 2013. "The only thing I hope is that tomorrow, the team that wins, if some team wants to celebrate, a player wants to get his medal, enjoy with his teammates, I just expect that the doping committee sends somebody with him and doesn't close him in a room and forbid the guy to enjoy a special moment." Jones was given a two-game suspension for insulting an official and was fined 5,000 euros after staying on the pitch to celebrate his team's win rather than going straight to a doping control.

Mourinho ready to make move for Bale

<p>Gareth Bale believes he isn&#39;t fit to last 90 minutes for Real Madrid in his homecoming to Cardiff for the Champions League final against Juventus on Saturday and admitted taking painkillers to play earlier this season.</p>

<p>Bale hasn&#39;t featured since suffering the latest in a series of calf injuries that have plagued his time in Madrid, against Barcelona on April 23.</p>

<p>However, he claimed he has paid the price from rushing back from ankle ligament damage suffered in November and that his right ankle still hasn&#39;t fully recovered.</p>

<p>&quot;I am not 100 percent, I haven&#39;t played for six or seven weeks,&quot; Bale said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>&quot;I obviously had my operation which still really hasn&#39;t recovered.</p>

<p>&quot;I have been playing with a lot of pain, even when I came back I was taking tablets to get through games and training.</p>

<p>&quot;The last six or seven weeks have enabled me to rest my ankle a bit and really try to get it a bit better, and obviously recover from the injury which it caused.&quot;</p>

<p>Bale returned ahead of schedule from his ankle operation in February and scored on his comeback against Espanyol.</p>

<p>However, he quickly suffered niggling muscle problems before breaking down against Barca last month.</p>

<p>The Welshman is back in training with the hope of being involved in European football&#39;s showpiece as Madrid look to become the first side to retain the trophy in the Champions League era.</p>

<p>However, he is realistic that he is unlikely to oust the on-form Isco from Zinedine Zidane&#39;s starting line-up.</p>

<p>&quot;To last 90 minutes, I haven&#39;t played a lot of football this year since my operation, so that would be difficult.&quot;</p>

<p>Even without Bale, Madrid won La Liga for the first time in five years last weekend with Isco&#39;s form in the final weeks of the season instrumental to their success.</p>

<p>And Bale backed his understudy to shine in Cardiff even if it means missing out on his dream of starting a Champions League final in his home city.</p>

<p>&quot;I think Isco has been fantastic,&quot; added Bale.</p>

<p>&quot;The last few weeks he has been playing very well, so I am happy for him and he has helped the team enormously at the end of the season.</p>

<p>&quot;Whether he or I start we will both be cheering each other on and hoping the team win.</p>

<p>&quot;The most important thing is how we perform as a team and win the trophy at the end of it.&quot;</p>

<p>However, Zidane raised the possibility of the two playing together at some stage of the game against the Italian champions.</p>

<p>&quot;The two of them are very good players,&quot; said the Frenchman.</p>

<p>&quot;They played 16 games together this season.</p>

<p>&quot;Everyone speaks about Gareth or Isco but they can play together.&quot;</p>

<p>(AFP)</p>


The Welsh forward admitted that his right ankle had yet to fully recover, days before Real Madrid take on Juventus in Cardiff

Gareth Bale believes he isn't fit to last 90 minutes for Real Madrid in his homecoming to Cardiff for the Champions League final against Juventus on Saturday and admitted taking painkillers to play earlier this season. Bale hasn't featured since suffering the latest in a series of calf injuries that have plagued his time in Madrid, against Barcelona on April 23. However, he claimed he has paid the price from rushing back from ankle ligament damage suffered in November and that his right ankle still hasn't fully recovered. "I am not 100 percent, I haven't played for six or seven weeks," Bale said on Tuesday. "I obviously had my operation which still really hasn't recovered. "I have been playing with a lot of pain, even when I came back I was taking tablets to get through games and training. "The last six or seven weeks have enabled me to rest my ankle a bit and really try to get it a bit better, and obviously recover from the injury which it caused." Bale returned ahead of schedule from his ankle operation in February and scored on his comeback against Espanyol. However, he quickly suffered niggling muscle problems before breaking down against Barca last month. The Welshman is back in training with the hope of being involved in European football's showpiece as Madrid look to become the first side to retain the trophy in the Champions League era. However, he is realistic that he is unlikely to oust the on-form Isco from Zinedine Zidane's starting line-up. "To last 90 minutes, I haven't played a lot of football this year since my operation, so that would be difficult." Even without Bale, Madrid won La Liga for the first time in five years last weekend with Isco's form in the final weeks of the season instrumental to their success. And Bale backed his understudy to shine in Cardiff even if it means missing out on his dream of starting a Champions League final in his home city. "I think Isco has been fantastic," added Bale. "The last few weeks he has been playing very well, so I am happy for him and he has helped the team enormously at the end of the season. "Whether he or I start we will both be cheering each other on and hoping the team win. "The most important thing is how we perform as a team and win the trophy at the end of it." However, Zidane raised the possibility of the two playing together at some stage of the game against the Italian champions. "The two of them are very good players," said the Frenchman. "They played 16 games together this season. "Everyone speaks about Gareth or Isco but they can play together." (AFP)

Not 100% fit for Champions League final, says Gareth Bale

<p>Wales international Gareth Bale has extended his Real Madrid contract until 2022, the Spanish club said on Sunday.</p>

<p>Bale joined Real for a then world-record fee of 100 million euros ($110 million) in 2013 and has won two Champions Leagues and a King&#39;s Cup in three seasons with the La Liga club.</p>

<p>The 27-year-old winger, whose previous contract ran until 2019, has made 135 appearances in all competitions since he joined the club, scoring 62 goals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Real Madrid C. F. and Gareth Bale have agreed to the extension of the player&#39;s contract until June 30, 2022,&quot; the club said on its website.</p>

<p>(Reuters)</p>


The 27-year-old Welsh winger was previously contracted with Real Madrid till 2019

Wales international Gareth Bale has extended his Real Madrid contract until 2022, the Spanish club said on Sunday. Bale joined Real for a then world-record fee of 100 million euros ($110 million) in 2013 and has won two Champions Leagues and a King's Cup in three seasons with the La Liga club. The 27-year-old winger, whose previous contract ran until 2019, has made 135 appearances in all competitions since he joined the club, scoring 62 goals. "Real Madrid C. F. and Gareth Bale have agreed to the extension of the player's contract until June 30, 2022," the club said on its website. (Reuters)

Gareth Bale extends Madrid stay till 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale will return to action for Real Madrid&#39;s La Liga game with Villarreal on Wednesday, coach Zinedine Zidane said.<br />
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Ronaldo, Real&#39;s all-time top scorer, missed Sunday&#39;s 2-0 win at Espanyol with a sore throat while record signing Bale was out with a hip injury sustained in the Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon.<br />
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&quot;They are both well, they trained normally and are both 100 per cent,&quot; Zidane told a news conference on Tuesday ahead of the&nbsp;game with Villarreal, who are unbeaten this season having won two and drawn two of their four games.<br />
<br />
The return of Bale and Ronaldo means Zidane will be able to start with his first choice front three, Bale, Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, for the first time in a league game this season.<br />
<br />
Veteran defender Pepe, however, will miss out after finishing the Espanyol game injured and goalkeeper Keylor Navas has still not recovered from surgery on his Achilles.<br />
<br />
Real are top of La Liga and are the only team in the top flight to have won all four of their opening games.<br />
<br />
Despite equalling a La Liga record of 16 consecutive wins last Sunday in beating Espanyol, however, Zidane&#39;s side have been criticised by Spanish media for their uninspiring performances.<br />
<br />
The European champions needed an 89th-minute equaliser and a stoppage-time winner to beat Sporting last week in the Champions League&nbsp;and had nervous moments against Espanyol before Benzema sealed the points.<br />
<br />
Zidane, however, shrugged off the negative comments.<br />
<br />
&quot;Criticism is expected here, you know when you are a player or coach here that you will face greater demands than anywhere else, you know that when you sign for Real Madrid,&quot; he said.<br />
<br />
&quot;You can always improve whether you&#39;re a player or a coach but we are doing pretty well,&quot; the Frenchman added.<br />
<br />
&quot;We&#39;re going to try and improve our play and keep a clean sheet. But we know we&#39;ll have a very difficult game at home, against a very good side who are unbeaten, so we&#39;ll have to prepare for the game well.&quot;<br />
<br />
(Reuters)

Ronaldo missed Sunday's 2-0 win at Espanyol with a sore throat while Bale was out with a hip injury

Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale will return to action for Real Madrid's La Liga game with Villarreal on Wednesday, coach Zinedine Zidane said. Ronaldo, Real's all-time top scorer, missed Sunday's 2-0 win at Espanyol with a sore throat while record signing Bale was out with a hip injury sustained in the Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon. "They are both well, they trained normally and are both 100 per cent," Zidane told a news conference on Tuesday ahead of the game with Villarreal, who are unbeaten this season having won two and drawn two of their four games. The return of Bale and Ronaldo means Zidane will be able to start with his first choice front three, Bale, Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, for the first time in a league game this season. Veteran defender Pepe, however, will miss out after finishing the Espanyol game injured and goalkeeper Keylor Navas has still not recovered from surgery on his Achilles. Real are top of La Liga and are the only team in the top flight to have won all four of their opening games. Despite equalling a La Liga record of 16 consecutive wins last Sunday in beating Espanyol, however, Zidane's side have been criticised by Spanish media for their uninspiring performances. The European champions needed an 89th-minute equaliser and a stoppage-time winner to beat Sporting last week in the Champions League and had nervous moments against Espanyol before Benzema sealed the points. Zidane, however, shrugged off the negative comments. "Criticism is expected here, you know when you are a player or coach here that you will face greater demands than anywhere else, you know that when you sign for Real Madrid," he said. "You can always improve whether you're a player or a coach but we are doing pretty well," the Frenchman added. "We're going to try and improve our play and keep a clean sheet. But we know we'll have a very difficult game at home, against a very good side who are unbeaten, so we'll have to prepare for the game well." (Reuters)

Ronaldo and Bale to make Real return against Villarreal

Juventus have signed Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros ($98.89 million), the third highest transfer fee ever paid.<br />
<br />
&quot;I can confirm that the contract has been deposited with the League and the deal has been done,&quot; Napoli spokesman Nicola Lombardi told Reuters on Tuesday, adding that the fee will be paid in two installments.<br />
<br />
The Turin-based club triggered the release clause for the 28-year-old, who still had two years to run on his contract, Napoli added later on Tuesday in a statement.<br />
<br />
Higuain&#39;s transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013 and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009.<br />
<br />
Last season Higuain scored a record 36 Serie A goals in 35 games for Napoli, who finished runners-up as Juventus won a fifth consecutive title. He joined Napoli in 2013 after spending six years at Real.<br />
<br />
The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.<br />
<br />
(Reuters)<br />
&nbsp;

Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest fee ever paid, after those of Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo

Juventus have signed Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros ($98.89 million), the third highest transfer fee ever paid. "I can confirm that the contract has been deposited with the League and the deal has been done," Napoli spokesman Nicola Lombardi told Reuters on Tuesday, adding that the fee will be paid in two installments. The Turin-based club triggered the release clause for the 28-year-old, who still had two years to run on his contract, Napoli added later on Tuesday in a statement. Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013 and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. Last season Higuain scored a record 36 Serie A goals in 35 games for Napoli, who finished runners-up as Juventus won a fifth consecutive title. He joined Napoli in 2013 after spending six years at Real. The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt. (Reuters)

Juventus sign Argentina striker Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros

It will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semi-finals yet their opponents could be forgiven a sense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon today.<br />
<br />
This will be Portugal&#39;s fourth semi-final in the last five editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way.<br />
<br />
Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the final by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004.<br />
<br />
If their defeat in the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup and the loss at the Euros in 1984 are taken into account, they are becoming all too familiar with the pitfalls of this stage of major tournaments.<br />
<br />
Portugal&#39;s conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses France, at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012.<br />
<br />
If they lose to Wales, playing their first major tournament in 58 years and their first ever semi-final, it would be a devastating blow.<br />
<br />
Yet Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match.<br />
<br />
Chris Coleman&#39;s side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy favourites Belgium in the quarters.<br />
<br />
Portugal are yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra time and squeezed past Poland on penalties.<br />
<br />
Things are yet to click for Portugal, and for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his team mates attacking shortcomings.<br />
<br />
Yet Portugal are unbeaten in 12 competitive internationals since Fernando Santos took over as coach at the start of the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.<br />
<br />
With Ronaldo&#39;s Real Madrid team mate Pepe marshalling an increasingly assured defence, they will be tough to break down.<br />
<br />
Especially for a Wales side deprived of one of their most talented creative influences in midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who will be suspended after picking up a booking in the win over Belgium.<br />
<br />
While Gareth Bale has been Wales&#39;s attacking talisman, scoring three times to lift them out of their group, Ramsey has been arguably their most influential player, scoring one and producing four assists in the run to the last four.<br />
<br />
The match is likely to be billed as a contest between the two most expensive players in the world - Ronaldo, who will play a record third European Championship semi-final, and his Real Madrid team mate Bale.<br />
<br />
Perhaps ominously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted twice in each of his last two games in Lyon for club and country.<br />
<br />
(Reuters)

Things are yet to click for the Portuguese and their captain Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his teammates' shortcomings

It will be virgin territory for Wales when they face Portugal in the Euro 2016 semi-finals yet their opponents could be forgiven a sense of deja vu as they step on to the pitch in Lyon today. This will be Portugal's fourth semi-final in the last five editions of the competition stretching back to 2000, but for all their success in reaching the latter stages of the tournament, there has been little glory along the way. Only once have they overcome the last-four hurdle and then they were beaten in the final by Greece as hosts at Euro 2004. If their defeat in the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup and the loss at the Euros in 1984 are taken into account, they are becoming all too familiar with the pitfalls of this stage of major tournaments. Portugal's conquerors in their recent last-four clashes have included football powerhouses France, at Euro 2000 and the World Cup in 2006, and Spain at Euro 2012. If they lose to Wales, playing their first major tournament in 58 years and their first ever semi-final, it would be a devastating blow. Yet Wales are arguably the form team coming into the match. Chris Coleman's side have revelled in their underdog status to win their group, which also included England, Russia and Slovakia, ease out British rivals Northern Ireland in the last 16 and sweep past heavy favourites Belgium in the quarters. Portugal are yet to win a match at the tournament inside 90 minutes, having drawn all three group games, beaten Croatia in extra time and squeezed past Poland on penalties. Things are yet to click for Portugal, and for captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who has at times looked exasperated by his team mates attacking shortcomings. Yet Portugal are unbeaten in 12 competitive internationals since Fernando Santos took over as coach at the start of the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. With Ronaldo's Real Madrid team mate Pepe marshalling an increasingly assured defence, they will be tough to break down. Especially for a Wales side deprived of one of their most talented creative influences in midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who will be suspended after picking up a booking in the win over Belgium. While Gareth Bale has been Wales's attacking talisman, scoring three times to lift them out of their group, Ramsey has been arguably their most influential player, scoring one and producing four assists in the run to the last four. The match is likely to be billed as a contest between the two most expensive players in the world - Ronaldo, who will play a record third European Championship semi-final, and his Real Madrid team mate Bale. Perhaps ominously for Wales, Ronaldo has netted twice in each of his last two games in Lyon for club and country. (Reuters)

In-form Wales take on Portugal

<p>Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the&nbsp;world&#39;s&nbsp;third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club,&nbsp;for $99 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for &euro;90 million, payable in two financial years,&quot; said a statement on the Juventus website.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Higuain&#39;s transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013,&nbsp;and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009.<br />
<br />
Higuain&#39;s move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus.&nbsp;The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make&nbsp;the move back to the Premier League this summer.<br />
<br />
Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A&#39;s golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club.<br />
<br />
The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.</p>


The former Napoli player has become the third most expensive player after Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the world's third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club, for $99 million. "Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for €90 million, payable in two financial years," said a statement on the Juventus website. Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013, and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. Higuain's move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus. The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make the move back to the Premier League this summer. Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A's golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club. The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain joins Juventus for $99 million

<p>Wales outplayed Russia 3-0, scoring twice in the opening 20 minutes, as they moved into the round of 16 at Euro 2016 by winning Group B on Monday.</p>

<p>Aaron Ramsey dinked the ball over Igor Akinfeev to finish off a counter-attack in the 11th minute and Neil Taylor added a second, also from a counter-attack nine minutes later as Wales took early control.</p>

<p>Russia had no answer to the fast, incisive Welsh breaks and survived several more chances before Gareth Bale scored his third goal of the tournament to become Euro 2016&#39;s top marksman, flicking the third past Akinfeev in the 67th minute.</p>

<p>Wales topped the group with six points, one ahead of England, who finished second after a 0-0 draw with Slovakia.</p>

<p>Chris Coleman&#39;s team will now play one of the third-placed sides in Paris on Saturday with every hope of reaching the last eight, as they did in 1976. It was a glorious night for Welsh football in what had been described as the country&#39;s biggest game since the 1958 World Cup quarter-final.</p>

<p>Their players and supporters celebrated wildly while Russian fans, who had caused trouble at the end of their first match against England, slunk away.</p>

<p>Russia now go home with much to think about before hosting the World Cup in two years time.</p>

<p>Wales, mostly on the back foot in the previous game against England, rediscovered the attacking brio that had enabled them to beat Slovakia before that.</p>

<p>Bale, the scorer of a direct free kick in each of the two previous games to equal a European Championship record, was close with several fine efforts before becoming the first player since the Czech Milan Baros in 2004 to score in three successive games at the European finals.</p>

<p>Bale was outstanding in running at a Russian defence that allowed far too space to him and Ramsey, and also in breaking in support of Sam Vokes, the surprise selection in attack in place of Hal Robson-Kanu.</p>

<p>The Russian rarguard was not helped by their revamped midfield, which showed three changes from the last game but were outplayed by Joe Ledley and the tigerish Joe Allen.</p>

<p>Wales went at the opposition from the first minute. Bale set the tone by coming inside and hitting a fierce shot that Akinfeev could not hold.</p>

<p>Russia survived that but were behind when Allen played a perfect through ball for Ramsey, just onside, to place his shot over Akinfeev.</p>

<p>Before a quarter of the game had been played they were two goals to the good, Taylor taking advantage of an involuntary jab by Russian captain Roman Shirokov to score at the second attempt.</p>

<p>It was the first international goal from a player who last scored at club level six years ago.</p>

<p>Bale made chances for Vokes and Ramsey before the end of a first half in which Russia&#39;s only threatening moment stemmed from a long clearance by Akinfeev.</p>

<p>Ashley Williams could not control it and Wayne Hennessey had to save from Artem Dzyuba at close range.</p>

<p>As in the 2-1 defeat by Slovakia, Russian coach Leonid Slutski made two early changes in the second half but this time there was no great improvement.</p>

<p>Ramsey, named man of the match, put Bale in for a chip that Akinfeev managed to touch wide of the far post and when the pair repeated their combination, the goalkeeper&#39;s slight touch could not prevent a third goal.<br />
<br />
(Reuters)</p>


It was a glorious night for Welsh football in what had been described as the country's biggest game since the 1958 World Cup quarter-final

Wales outplayed Russia 3-0, scoring twice in the opening 20 minutes, as they moved into the round of 16 at Euro 2016 by winning Group B on Monday. Aaron Ramsey dinked the ball over Igor Akinfeev to finish off a counter-attack in the 11th minute and Neil Taylor added a second, also from a counter-attack nine minutes later as Wales took early control. Russia had no answer to the fast, incisive Welsh breaks and survived several more chances before Gareth Bale scored his third goal of the tournament to become Euro 2016's top marksman, flicking the third past Akinfeev in the 67th minute. Wales topped the group with six points, one ahead of England, who finished second after a 0-0 draw with Slovakia. Chris Coleman's team will now play one of the third-placed sides in Paris on Saturday with every hope of reaching the last eight, as they did in 1976. It was a glorious night for Welsh football in what had been described as the country's biggest game since the 1958 World Cup quarter-final. Their players and supporters celebrated wildly while Russian fans, who had caused trouble at the end of their first match against England, slunk away. Russia now go home with much to think about before hosting the World Cup in two years time. Wales, mostly on the back foot in the previous game against England, rediscovered the attacking brio that had enabled them to beat Slovakia before that. Bale, the scorer of a direct free kick in each of the two previous games to equal a European Championship record, was close with several fine efforts before becoming the first player since the Czech Milan Baros in 2004 to score in three successive games at the European finals. Bale was outstanding in running at a Russian defence that allowed far too space to him and Ramsey, and also in breaking in support of Sam Vokes, the surprise selection in attack in place of Hal Robson-Kanu. The Russian rarguard was not helped by their revamped midfield, which showed three changes from the last game but were outplayed by Joe Ledley and the tigerish Joe Allen. Wales went at the opposition from the first minute. Bale set the tone by coming inside and hitting a fierce shot that Akinfeev could not hold. Russia survived that but were behind when Allen played a perfect through ball for Ramsey, just onside, to place his shot over Akinfeev. Before a quarter of the game had been played they were two goals to the good, Taylor taking advantage of an involuntary jab by Russian captain Roman Shirokov to score at the second attempt. It was the first international goal from a player who last scored at club level six years ago. Bale made chances for Vokes and Ramsey before the end of a first half in which Russia's only threatening moment stemmed from a long clearance by Akinfeev. Ashley Williams could not control it and Wayne Hennessey had to save from Artem Dzyuba at close range. As in the 2-1 defeat by Slovakia, Russian coach Leonid Slutski made two early changes in the second half but this time there was no great improvement. Ramsey, named man of the match, put Bale in for a chip that Akinfeev managed to touch wide of the far post and when the pair repeated their combination, the goalkeeper's slight touch could not prevent a third goal. (Reuters)

Wales thump Russia 3-0 to top group, move into last 16

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