Lionel Messi underlined his worth to Barcelona by scoring a sensational free-kick on Sunday but Atletico Madrid are in charge of La Liga after beating Cadiz to stand 10 points clear at the top of the table.&nbsp;

Messi's stunning effort in a 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao had been matched by the Argentinian's friend and former team-mate Luis Suarez, who earlier curled in a superb free-kick of his own in Atletico's 4-2 victory over Cadiz.&nbsp;

Atletico end the weekend even further ahead after Real Madrid's defeat by Levante on Saturday, which means Zinedine Zidane's side are now level with Barca on points, both of them struggling to keep pace in the title race.

"Every game is an important step towards reaching the goal we set ourselves at the start of the season," said Diego Simeone. "We have to keep pushing each other."

Barca's win at least maintains their momentum while Messi's 650th club goal may have carried extra satisfaction for the Argentinian, who had the details of his contract published in the Spanish newspaper El Mundo on Saturday night.&nbsp;

El Mundo claimed the deal signed by Messi in 2017 shows he could earn up to 555 million euros over its four years, describing it as "the colossal contract that ruined Barcelona".&nbsp;

"Someone has done it with bad intentions to cause problems," said Ronald Koeman. "You have to respect a player who has given so much to Spanish football and to this club. I didn't have any doubts that it wouldn't affect him on the pitch."

Few can argue with Messi's contribution in that regard, with the 33-year-old showing against Bilbao why the club have gone to such lengths to keep him.&nbsp;

Bilbao briefly drew level through a Jordi Alba own-goal early in the second half but Antoine Griezmann's strike secured Barca their third consecutive victory, with Ousmane Dembele and Frenkie de Jong both impressive again.&nbsp;

Asked what Messi worth is to the team, Griezmann said: "What a question, we are enjoying him, he is a legend. I hope we can keep enjoying him for many more years."

<h2>- Suarez haunts Barca -</h2>

But Barcelona continue to be haunted by the spectre of Suarez, whose tremendous free-kick and then a penalty helped Atletico push their advantage into double figures.&nbsp;

While Messi's free-kick was closer and bent perfectly into the top right-hand corner, Suarez's shot was further out and hit harder, a fizzing effort that curled into the left side of the net.

"The other day they were practising free-kicks," said Simeone. "I told him we had not seen him score many goals from free-kicks so that's why I smiled when I saw him score this one."

"After spending so long at Barca with Messi, it was difficult," added Suarez.

He was the driving force again, his two goals making it nine in his last eight games and 14 now for the season.&nbsp;

His goals and assists have now earned Atletico 12 extra points in the league, with Barcelona's decision to let him leave, especially for title rivals, seeming more misjudged by the week.&nbsp;

It could get even worse for them and Real Madrid, given Simeone's side still have a game in hand over each of them.&nbsp;

Both would have been given hope by a rousing display from newly-promoted Cadiz, who were inspired by the relentless Alvaro Negredo.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old scored twice, could have had a hat-trick and certainly did not deserve to be on the losing side.

But Suarez's double, between goals from Saul Niguez and Koke late on, sealed another three points for Atletico, who now have the La Liga crown within reach, even with half of the season left to play.

Lionel Messi underlined his worth to Barcelona by scoring a sensational free-kick on Sunday but Atletico Madrid are in charge of La Liga after beating Cadiz to stand 10 points clear at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi underlined his worth to Barcelona by scoring a sensational free-kick on Sunday but Atletico Madrid are in charge of La Liga after beating Cadiz to stand 10 points clear at the top of the table. Messi's stunning effort in a 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao had been matched by the Argentinian's friend and former team-mate Luis Suarez, who earlier curled in a superb free-kick of his own in Atletico's 4-2 victory over Cadiz. Atletico end the weekend even further ahead after Real Madrid's defeat by Levante on Saturday, which means Zinedine Zidane's side are now level with Barca on points, both of them struggling to keep pace in the title race. "Every game is an important step towards reaching the goal we set ourselves at the start of the season," said Diego Simeone. "We have to keep pushing each other." Barca's win at least maintains their momentum while Messi's 650th club goal may have carried extra satisfaction for the Argentinian, who had the details of his contract published in the Spanish newspaper El Mundo on Saturday night. El Mundo claimed the deal signed by Messi in 2017 shows he could earn up to 555 million euros over its four years, describing it as "the colossal contract that ruined Barcelona". "Someone has done it with bad intentions to cause problems," said Ronald Koeman. "You have to respect a player who has given so much to Spanish football and to this club. I didn't have any doubts that it wouldn't affect him on the pitch." Few can argue with Messi's contribution in that regard, with the 33-year-old showing against Bilbao why the club have gone to such lengths to keep him. Bilbao briefly drew level through a Jordi Alba own-goal early in the second half but Antoine Griezmann's strike secured Barca their third consecutive victory, with Ousmane Dembele and Frenkie de Jong both impressive again. Asked what Messi worth is to the team, Griezmann said: "What a question, we are enjoying him, he is a legend. I hope we can keep enjoying him for many more years." - Suarez haunts Barca - But Barcelona continue to be haunted by the spectre of Suarez, whose tremendous free-kick and then a penalty helped Atletico push their advantage into double figures. While Messi's free-kick was closer and bent perfectly into the top right-hand corner, Suarez's shot was further out and hit harder, a fizzing effort that curled into the left side of the net. "The other day they were practising free-kicks," said Simeone. "I told him we had not seen him score many goals from free-kicks so that's why I smiled when I saw him score this one." "After spending so long at Barca with Messi, it was difficult," added Suarez. He was the driving force again, his two goals making it nine in his last eight games and 14 now for the season. His goals and assists have now earned Atletico 12 extra points in the league, with Barcelona's decision to let him leave, especially for title rivals, seeming more misjudged by the week. It could get even worse for them and Real Madrid, given Simeone's side still have a game in hand over each of them. Both would have been given hope by a rousing display from newly-promoted Cadiz, who were inspired by the relentless Alvaro Negredo. The 35-year-old scored twice, could have had a hat-trick and certainly did not deserve to be on the losing side. But Suarez's double, between goals from Saul Niguez and Koke late on, sealed another three points for Atletico, who now have the La Liga crown within reach, even with half of the season left to play.

Messi shows his worth but Suarez double stretches Atletico lead

Atletico Madrid forward Luis Suarez was back among the goals to help his side to a 3-1 win at home to Elche on Saturday, taking them three points clear at the top of La Liga. 
 
Suarez, who had not scored since Nov. 7, gave Atletico the lead in the 41st minute as he got the slightest touch to turn a low cross from Kieran Trippier into the net. 
 
Suarez then slid in to knock home from a delightful low pass by Yannick Carrasco in the 58th for his ninth goal of the season, taking him joint top of the scoring charts alongside Celta Vigo`s Iago Aspas and Real Sociedad`s Mikel Oyarzabal. 
 
Elche got themselves back in the game with a header from Lucas Boye in the 64th following a well-worked corner routine but substitute Diego Costa sealed the points for Atletico by winning and converting a penalty in the 80th.

Atletico Madrid forward Luis Suarez was back among the goals to help his side to a 3-1 win at home to Elche on Saturday, taking them three points clear at the top of La Liga.

Atletico Madrid forward Luis Suarez was back among the goals to help his side to a 3-1 win at home to Elche on Saturday, taking them three points clear at the top of La Liga. Suarez, who had not scored since Nov. 7, gave Atletico the lead in the 41st minute as he got the slightest touch to turn a low cross from Kieran Trippier into the net. Suarez then slid in to knock home from a delightful low pass by Yannick Carrasco in the 58th for his ninth goal of the season, taking him joint top of the scoring charts alongside Celta Vigo`s Iago Aspas and Real Sociedad`s Mikel Oyarzabal. Elche got themselves back in the game with a header from Lucas Boye in the 64th following a well-worked corner routine but substitute Diego Costa sealed the points for Atletico by winning and converting a penalty in the 80th.

Suarez nets double as Atletico go clear at the top

FIFA on Wednesday reveals the nominations for 2020 FIFA Puskas Award for some breathtaking goals last season. IN PICS| From Messi to Lewandowski: FIFA reveals nominees for Best Men's Player award The list included Atletico Madrid's Luis Suarez and Tottenham Hotspurs' Son Heung-min, who coincidentally scored their nominated goals on the same day (December 7).

FIFA on Wednesday reveals the nominations for 2020 FIFA Puskas Award for some breathtaking goals last season. IN PICS| From Messi to Lewandowski: FIFA reveals nominees for Best Men's Player award The list included Atletico Madrid's Luis Suarez and Tottenham Hotspurs' Son Heung-min, who coincidentally scored their nominated goals on the same day (December 7). Son's solo effort pulled a stunner against Burnley, whereas, Luis Suarez scored a stunning backheel chip for former club Barcelona against Mallorca. Both stars are leading the list for their stunning goals, but they face stiff competition as the list includes many great goals. "The winner of the FIFA Puskas Award will be selected by an international jury comprising a panel of Fifa legends and by the fans from all over the world registered on www.fifa.com. Each of the two groups of voters within the jury has the same electoral weight," FIFA said in a statement. Son Heung-min - Tottenham v Burnley - December 2019 × Luis Suarez - Barcelona v Mallorca - December 2019 × Andre-Pierre Gignac - UANL Tigres v Pumas UNAM - March 2020 × Zlatzko Junuzovic - Rapid Vienna v Red Bull Salzburg - June 2020 × Hlompho Kekana - Mamelodi Sundowns FC v Cape Town City FC - August 2019 × Giorgian De Arrascaeta – Ceara SC v CR Flamengo - August 2019 × Jordan Flores - Shamrock Rovers FC v Dundalk - February 2020 × Sophie Ingle - Arsenal Women v Chelsea Women - January 2020 × Caroline Weir - Manchester City Women v Manchester United Women - September 2019 × Shirley Cruz - Costa Rica Women v Panama Women - January 2020 × Leonel Quiñónez - Universidad Catolica v Macara - August 2019 × Earlier, FIFA on Wednesday revealed a list of players for the Best FIFA Men's Player award. The list includes Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne and Bayern Munich's Robert Lewandowski.

FIFA announces nominations for Puskas award - Watch all the goals

Uruguay's top goal scorer Luis Suarez has tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss their World Cup qualifier against Brazil, local football chiefs said on Monday.

The positive test also means Suarez will miss his club Atletico Madrid's La Liga outing against Barcelona, which would have been the first time he ran out against his former team.

"Tests have been carried out on all the members of the national team, with the result that the players Luis Suarez (and) Rodrigo Munoz and the official, Matias Faral, have tested positive for Covid-19," the Uruguayan football federation said in a statement.&nbsp;

All three are "in good health", it added. They join defender Matias Vina, who tested positive on Saturday after Uruguay's 3-0 win over Colombia in Barranquilla.

Uruguay, who have not beaten Brazil since 2001, host the Brazilians (minus an injured Neymar) in Montevideo on Tuesday.

Brazil top the round-robin South American qualifying group for the 2022 finals in Qatar with nine points from three games, Argentina are on seven, Ecuador on six and Uruguay on six points.

Uruguay's top goal scorer Luis Suarez has tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss their World Cup qualifier against Brazil, local football chiefs said on Monday.

Uruguay's top goal scorer Luis Suarez has tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss their World Cup qualifier against Brazil, local football chiefs said on Monday. The positive test also means Suarez will miss his club Atletico Madrid's La Liga outing against Barcelona, which would have been the first time he ran out against his former team. "Tests have been carried out on all the members of the national team, with the result that the players Luis Suarez (and) Rodrigo Munoz and the official, Matias Faral, have tested positive for Covid-19," the Uruguayan football federation said in a statement. All three are "in good health", it added. They join defender Matias Vina, who tested positive on Saturday after Uruguay's 3-0 win over Colombia in Barranquilla. Uruguay, who have not beaten Brazil since 2001, host the Brazilians (minus an injured Neymar) in Montevideo on Tuesday. Brazil top the round-robin South American qualifying group for the 2022 finals in Qatar with nine points from three games, Argentina are on seven, Ecuador on six and Uruguay on six points.

Luis Suarez to miss Brazil clash after positive Covid test

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/footballer-rashford-tops-list-of-uk-honours-for-key-virus-workers-334253" hreflang="en">Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers</a>

“Those days were very difficult. I cried because of what I was having to go through,” Suarez told the Uruguay national team’s official media after scoring in Thursday’s 2-1 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier.

“I didn’t take the club’s message that they were looking for a solution for me in order to mix things up very well. I was hurt most of all by the way they did things, because one has to accept it when a cycle comes to an end.”

In six years as a Barca forward Suarez became third all-time top scorer with 198 goals he lifted four La Liga titles, four domestic cups and the 2015 Champions League with the Catalans before leaving for Atletico Madrid.&nbsp;

He was forced out with one year left on his contract after being told by new coach Ronald Koeman he was no longer in the team’s plans.&nbsp;

“Not everyone knows what happened but the worst thing was going to training and being sent to a different group from everyone else because I was not allowed to play in practice matches,” Suarez said.

“My wife could see how unhappy I was and she wanted to see me smile again and when the chance came to join Atletico I had no doubts.”

The striker, 33, gave a tearful farewell news conference the day before signing for Atletico while Lionel Messi, his old strike partner, hit out at the club’s treatment of the Uruguayan.

“I wasn’t surprised that Messi supported me publicly because I know him too well. He knew the pain I was going through, the feeling that I was being kicked out was what hurt me the most,” added Suarez.

“The way they did things was not right and Leo knows how me and my family suffered.”

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks. Also read: Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers “Those days were very difficult.

Former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez has revealed that he was reduced to tears by the Catalan giants' treatment to him in the final weeks. Also read: Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers “Those days were very difficult. I cried because of what I was having to go through,” Suarez told the Uruguay national team’s official media after scoring in Thursday’s 2-1 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier. “I didn’t take the club’s message that they were looking for a solution for me in order to mix things up very well. I was hurt most of all by the way they did things, because one has to accept it when a cycle comes to an end.” In six years as a Barca forward Suarez became third all-time top scorer with 198 goals he lifted four La Liga titles, four domestic cups and the 2015 Champions League with the Catalans before leaving for Atletico Madrid. He was forced out with one year left on his contract after being told by new coach Ronald Koeman he was no longer in the team’s plans. “Not everyone knows what happened but the worst thing was going to training and being sent to a different group from everyone else because I was not allowed to play in practice matches,” Suarez said. “My wife could see how unhappy I was and she wanted to see me smile again and when the chance came to join Atletico I had no doubts.” The striker, 33, gave a tearful farewell news conference the day before signing for Atletico while Lionel Messi, his old strike partner, hit out at the club’s treatment of the Uruguayan. “I wasn’t surprised that Messi supported me publicly because I know him too well. He knew the pain I was going through, the feeling that I was being kicked out was what hurt me the most,” added Suarez. “The way they did things was not right and Leo knows how me and my family suffered.”

'I cried': Luis Suarez over treatment in final days at Barcelona

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes Luis Suarez can lift the club to new heights and said his new signing will be in the squad to face Granada on Sunday.&nbsp;

Suarez has joined Atletico after being pushed out by Barcelona, who allowed the 33-year-old to leave for free, with only an extra 5 million euros due in variables.&nbsp;

"His arrival is an opportunity for us to keep growing as a club and to have new energy as a team," said Simeone.&nbsp;

"We spoke before he went to Barcelona at a time when the possibility came up that he might join us. The last six years he's had have been incredibly successful.&nbsp;

"His teammates want to make him settle in as quickly as possible so his goals and game can help us win."&nbsp;

Simeone said Suarez trained with his new side on Friday and is in line to make his debut against Granada at the Wanda Metropolitano this weekend.

"Yesterday he had a long day, he finished training very well with the team," said Simeone.&nbsp;

"He seems to be so motivated and excited and of course he will be in the squad, available for the team. Tomorrow we will see if he starts or comes on in the second half."&nbsp;

Suarez has said he was drawn to the possibility of competing at the highest level with Atletico and proving he is still among the best strikers in the world.&nbsp;

"I'm going to be honest, he was convinced from the first moment&nbsp;that this was the place for him to keep being a force, to keep showing he is still a great striker and to be able to keep sustaining the years he had at Barcelona," said Simeone.

"I found in him what we need in this club, a dream and a desire to be here. When people come here with that kind of motivation, things always go well for them."&nbsp;

<h2>- Morata replacement -</h2>

Suarez's arrival means Atletico have secured an instant replacement for Alvaro Morata, who moved to Juventus on loan.&nbsp;

Suarez scored 21 goals last season for Barcelona while Morata hit 16 for Atletico.&nbsp;

"We all know what Luis brings. He is a focal point, he's great with his back to goal, his movement inside the box creates chances," said Simeone.&nbsp;

"When we knew Alvaro might leave we decided the best way to continue would be to look for someone who scored even more goals last season.&nbsp;

"It wasn't easy to think of a replacement for Alvaro but when the possibility of Suarez came up, the numbers spoke for themselves."&nbsp;

Simeone will be in the dug-out on Sunday, having recovered following his positive test for coronavirus.&nbsp;

"We had the support of the doctors, who also tried to make sure I wasn't too far from what the team was doing despite my absence, which I also think might perhaps even be beneficial," said Simeone.&nbsp;

"After so many years of working every day with the players, having 15 days away perhaps could have been good too.&nbsp;

"Then when they say you have tested negative, you feel joy, enthusiasm, emotion, and incredibly appreciative of that excitement you always feel for the start of the season."&nbsp;

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes Luis Suarez can lift the club to new heights and said his new signing will be in the squad to face Granada on Sunday.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes Luis Suarez can lift the club to new heights and said his new signing will be in the squad to face Granada on Sunday. Suarez has joined Atletico after being pushed out by Barcelona, who allowed the 33-year-old to leave for free, with only an extra 5 million euros due in variables. "His arrival is an opportunity for us to keep growing as a club and to have new energy as a team," said Simeone. "We spoke before he went to Barcelona at a time when the possibility came up that he might join us. The last six years he's had have been incredibly successful. "His teammates want to make him settle in as quickly as possible so his goals and game can help us win." Simeone said Suarez trained with his new side on Friday and is in line to make his debut against Granada at the Wanda Metropolitano this weekend. "Yesterday he had a long day, he finished training very well with the team," said Simeone. "He seems to be so motivated and excited and of course he will be in the squad, available for the team. Tomorrow we will see if he starts or comes on in the second half." Suarez has said he was drawn to the possibility of competing at the highest level with Atletico and proving he is still among the best strikers in the world. "I'm going to be honest, he was convinced from the first moment that this was the place for him to keep being a force, to keep showing he is still a great striker and to be able to keep sustaining the years he had at Barcelona," said Simeone. "I found in him what we need in this club, a dream and a desire to be here. When people come here with that kind of motivation, things always go well for them." - Morata replacement - Suarez's arrival means Atletico have secured an instant replacement for Alvaro Morata, who moved to Juventus on loan. Suarez scored 21 goals last season for Barcelona while Morata hit 16 for Atletico. "We all know what Luis brings. He is a focal point, he's great with his back to goal, his movement inside the box creates chances," said Simeone. "When we knew Alvaro might leave we decided the best way to continue would be to look for someone who scored even more goals last season. "It wasn't easy to think of a replacement for Alvaro but when the possibility of Suarez came up, the numbers spoke for themselves." Simeone will be in the dug-out on Sunday, having recovered following his positive test for coronavirus. "We had the support of the doctors, who also tried to make sure I wasn't too far from what the team was doing despite my absence, which I also think might perhaps even be beneficial," said Simeone. "After so many years of working every day with the players, having 15 days away perhaps could have been good too. "Then when they say you have tested negative, you feel joy, enthusiasm, emotion, and incredibly appreciative of that excitement you always feel for the start of the season."

Suarez can take Atletico to a different level, says Simeone

Luis Suarez left his last Barcelona training session in tears on Wednesday as he prepares for a move to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid.

Spanish television channel Gol showed the Uruguayan striker wiping away tears with his sleeve as he drove off after saying his last goodbyes.

Suarez had become close friends with above all Lionel Messi since his arrival at the Catalan club in 2014.

Catalan daily Sport confirmed: "Luis Suarez left the Sant Joan Despi training centre in tears. The Uruguayan player greeted his teammates for his last training before signing his exit papers."

"At the end of the session the Uruguayan said goodbye to those who were his teammates over the past six years," Spanish sports daily Marca reported.

At the start of the week Marca endorsed an earlier report on RAC1 radio announcing that the 33-year-old was "no longer a Barcelona player".

It said that he decided to forgo a percentage of this season's salary in return for being allowed to leave.

All the signs are that he is poised to join Diego Simeone's Atletico, who like Barca make their La Liga seasonal bow this weekend.

"It's done, Luis Suarez is going to Atletico," Marca announced on its front page on Wednesday.

Suarez's days at Barca were numbered ever since new coach Ronald Koeman included him in a list of players he said he wouldn't be counting on for the new season.

Others not in Koeman's plans were Arturo Vidal (since moved to Inter Milan), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla) and Samuel Umtiti.

Since joining Barca from Liverpool in 2014 Suarez has won a host of trophies including the 2015 Champions League and four Liga titles.

He leaves as the club's third highest scorer with 198 goals behind Cesar Rodriguez (232) and Messi (634).

The Atletico move follows his failed attempt to join Juventus.

Juve coach Andrea Pirlo disclosed last week a deal was unlikely because of delays in the Uruguayan's bid to get an Italian passport.

On Tuesday prosecutors in Perugia said they suspected Suarez, with the help of teachers, of cheating to pass his Italian language test.

Luis Suarez left his last Barcelona training session in tears on Wednesday as he prepares for a move to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid. Spanish television channel Gol showed the Uruguayan striker wiping away tears with his sleeve as he drove off after saying his last goodbyes.

Luis Suarez left his last Barcelona training session in tears on Wednesday as he prepares for a move to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid. Spanish television channel Gol showed the Uruguayan striker wiping away tears with his sleeve as he drove off after saying his last goodbyes. Suarez had become close friends with above all Lionel Messi since his arrival at the Catalan club in 2014. Catalan daily Sport confirmed: "Luis Suarez left the Sant Joan Despi training centre in tears. The Uruguayan player greeted his teammates for his last training before signing his exit papers." "At the end of the session the Uruguayan said goodbye to those who were his teammates over the past six years," Spanish sports daily Marca reported. At the start of the week Marca endorsed an earlier report on RAC1 radio announcing that the 33-year-old was "no longer a Barcelona player". It said that he decided to forgo a percentage of this season's salary in return for being allowed to leave. All the signs are that he is poised to join Diego Simeone's Atletico, who like Barca make their La Liga seasonal bow this weekend. "It's done, Luis Suarez is going to Atletico," Marca announced on its front page on Wednesday. Suarez's days at Barca were numbered ever since new coach Ronald Koeman included him in a list of players he said he wouldn't be counting on for the new season. Others not in Koeman's plans were Arturo Vidal (since moved to Inter Milan), Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla) and Samuel Umtiti. Since joining Barca from Liverpool in 2014 Suarez has won a host of trophies including the 2015 Champions League and four Liga titles. He leaves as the club's third highest scorer with 198 goals behind Cesar Rodriguez (232) and Messi (634). The Atletico move follows his failed attempt to join Juventus. Juve coach Andrea Pirlo disclosed last week a deal was unlikely because of delays in the Uruguayan's bid to get an Italian passport. On Tuesday prosecutors in Perugia said they suspected Suarez, with the help of teachers, of cheating to pass his Italian language test.

Atletico-bound Suarez leaves last Barca training in tears

Perugia prosecutor's department on Tuesday said that Barcelona's striker Luis Suarez is suspected of cheating to pass his Italian language test with the help of his teachers.

Perugia prosecutor's department on Tuesday said that Barcelona's striker Luis Suarez is suspected of cheating to pass his Italian language test with the help of his teachers. Also read: La Liga: Barca looking to block Luis Suarez's move to Atletico Madrid Clearing the Italian exam is the first step to receive a passport. Suarez has been looking for one after being linked to Juventus as a possible transfer. "The investigation showed that the subjects discussed during the exam were agreed beforehand with the candidate and that the grade was awarded to him even before the test," the prosecutor's department said in a statement. Raffaele Cantone, a former head of Italy's National Anti-Corruption Authority, has been investigating University for Foreigners officials over various irregularities since February. Suarez came under suspicion over an overheard conversation. "But what do you think, that we're going to fail him? Today I have the last lesson (with Suarez) and I have to prepare it because he barely speaks a word" of Italian, Stefania Spina, one of the people targeted by the investigation, is claimed to have said according to prosecution documents cited by Italian media. Asked by a colleague what level Suarez "should pass" in Italian, Spina reportedly replied: "He should not, he must, he will pass, because with a salary of 10 million (euros) per season, you can't make him fail" his exam, "even if he doesn't know how to conjugate verbs and speak in the infinitive." According to Juve coach Andrea Pirlo, a proposed deal for Suarez was unlikely to go ahead because of delays in the Uruguayan's bid to get an Italian passport. The Italian champions cannot recruit Suarez otherwise because they have already reached their quota for non-EU players. (Inputs from AFP)

Luis Suarez and cheating? Barca striker suspected of cheating on Italian exam

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join.

According to a report in Onda Cero, Barca is trying to add Atletico to a &nbsp;'vetoed clubs' that he can't join, alongside rivals Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite Barca wanting to get rid of the player, they are not risking sending him to rival club and scoring against Barcelona.&nbsp;

Free-agent Edison Cavani is also linked with Diego Simeone side, he is being seen as a backup signing if the deal with Suarez crashes.&nbsp;

Earlier, Suarez was linked to Juventus, but as Juve have secured a deal for Alvaro Morata on loan, his deal with the Italian side looks off the table.&nbsp;

Onda Cero's report claims that Suarez and Barcelona have reached an agreement to cancel his contract, but the signing has yet to take place and this latest twist in events could change things. &nbsp;

It has been reported that Simeone is desperate to get Suarez through the door to add some much-needed attackers to his Atletico team.

If the deal does go through, Suarez would sign for two seasons and receive a net salary of £8.3million in each of them.

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join.

Atletico Madrid are in a pursuit to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez. However, Barcelona are attempting to block the deal by adding the Madrid side to a list of 'vetoed clubs' he can't join. According to a report in Onda Cero, Barca is trying to add Atletico to a 'vetoed clubs' that he can't join, alongside rivals Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. Despite Barca wanting to get rid of the player, they are not risking sending him to rival club and scoring against Barcelona. Free-agent Edison Cavani is also linked with Diego Simeone side, he is being seen as a backup signing if the deal with Suarez crashes. Earlier, Suarez was linked to Juventus, but as Juve have secured a deal for Alvaro Morata on loan, his deal with the Italian side looks off the table. Onda Cero's report claims that Suarez and Barcelona have reached an agreement to cancel his contract, but the signing has yet to take place and this latest twist in events could change things. It has been reported that Simeone is desperate to get Suarez through the door to add some much-needed attackers to his Atletico team. If the deal does go through, Suarez would sign for two seasons and receive a net salary of £8.3million in each of them.

La Liga: Barca looking to block Luis Suarez's move to Atletico Madrid

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.&nbsp;

A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck.&nbsp;

Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound.&nbsp;

This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday.&nbsp;

Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play.

"Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort.&nbsp;

Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances.

With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites.&nbsp;

"We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do."&nbsp;

Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation.&nbsp;

The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Ask forgiveness' -</h2>

Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild.&nbsp;

"We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez.&nbsp;

"We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger."&nbsp;

Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack.&nbsp;

Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post.&nbsp;

Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review.&nbsp;

But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10.&nbsp;

With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later.&nbsp;

A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in.&nbsp;

Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away.&nbsp;

Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points.

Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.&nbsp;

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga.

Barcelona kept their faint title hopes alive and doomed Espanyol to relegation on Wednesday as Luis Suarez's goal proved the winner in a pivotal Catalan derby at the top and bottom of La Liga. A cagey contest at Camp Nou exploded into life for six frantic minutes at the start of the second half as Ansu Fati and Pol Lozano were sent off, leaving each side with 10 men before Suarez struck. Suarez profitted after another superb contribution from a reinvigorated Antoine Griezmann, his backheel setting up Lionel Messi to shoot, with Suarez turning in the rebound. This 1-0 victory was a far cry from the sparkling 4-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday but it moves Barca to within a point of Real Madrid, who play their game in hand at home to Alaves on Friday. Espanyol, rooted to the bottom of the table, will be relegated. They sit 11 points adrift of safety with only three games left to play. "Life or death" read the front page of Mundo Deportivo on Thursday morning - for Barcelona, who had to win to stay in touch with Madrid, and for Espanyol, given they needed a victory to prolong their survival effort. Griezmann's combination with Suarez and Messi, coming after his sumptuous chip against Villarreal, sustains the Frenchman's momentum but this was more of a gritty win against an Espanyol team that hit the post at 0-0 and had chances. With the superior head-to-head and a kind last four fixtures, Real Madrid remain firm favourites. "We have to win our next three games," said Suarez. "What Madrid do is up to them. If they drop points, fantastic. We just have to be there if they do." Espanyol needed to win but have not beaten Barcelona in the league since 2009 when Mauricio Pochettino was in charge and Rufete, the team's fourth coach this season, accepted Messi's commiserations at the final whistle with a look of resignation. The club's supporters this week expressed anger after a "shameful season" under the Chinese Rastar Group, which took majority control in 2016. - 'Ask forgiveness' - Only Barcelona, Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao have spent more seasons in the top flight than Espanyol, who after 26 consecutive campaigns there must now rebuild. "We ask forgiveness from our fans," said Javi Lopez. "We know these are tough moments for us but for our fans as well. This season nothing has gone right. It's our fault and we are committed to coming back stronger." Barcelona had a lot of the ball in the first half but did little with it and in fact Espanyol had the better chances on the counter-attack. Adri Embarba sped away down the right after honing on goal his finish had to be blocked by the outstretched right leg of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Ter Stegen was called upon again before half-time and this time Didac Vila raced clear down the left, his shot rebounding off the goalkeeper and Clement Lenglet before falling back to Vila, who hit the far post. Quique Setien acted at the break, bringing Fati on and shifting Sergi Roberto to right-back but the 17-year-old lasted only five minutes, a high challenge on Fernando Calero earning in him a straight red card on review. But any advantage Espanyol had was short-lived because Lozano then flew in high on Gerard Pique, with his studs up, and was also sent off to make it 10 against 10. With the numbers equal but the spaces bigger, Barcelona could attack with greater freedom and they took the lead three minutes later. A delightful Griezmann backheel teed up Messi to shoot and the ball spilled out for Suarez to tap in. Messi almost added a second with a thumping volley at the back post while Espanyol wanted a penalty in injury-time when a shot hit the shoulder of Arturo Vidal. The appeals were rightly waved away. Villarreal had earlier beaten Getafe 3-1 to reduce the gap behind Sevilla in fourth to three points. Santi Cazorla scored two penalties for Villarreal to all-but end Getafe's own hopes of Champions League qualification. Sevilla play away at Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

Barcelona stay in touch with Real Madrid and send down rivals Espanyol

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi announced on Monday that Barca's players had agreed to a 70 percent pay cut and to make contributions to ensure the club's non-playing staff could be paid in full during the state of alarm in Spain caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

Footballers across Europe's top leagues have come under fire as some clubs have made cuts to their non-playing staff or their salaries while many wealthy players have yet to see their incomings affected.

"It hurts because we were the first to want to reach an agreement," Suarez told Uruguayan radio station Sport890.&nbsp;

"We know the situation the club is in, the situation the world is in right now and it was a minimal detail (holding up the agreement).

"But people have said things like us players didn't want to give in; that the basketball and handball players came to an agreement and we didn't.

"We hadn't come to an agreement because we were waiting to find the best solution for the club, and to our benefit and trying to help the employees."

In announcing the agreement, Messi had directed a thinly veiled swipe at the Barca board, led by president Josep Maria Bartomeu, whom he accused of undermining the players during recent negotiations.

His lengthy Instagram post was shared by a slew of teammates, including Suarez.

Striker Suarez, who has remained in Spain unlike some of his European-based international teammates such as Edinson Cavani and Diego Godin, called on Uruguay to impose a strict lockdown.

"It's the best solution for everyone. I know it's difficult in Uruguay where many people live day to day ... but if we don't all come together and go in the same direction, it's going to be difficult to come out of this situation," he said.

Uruguay has partially closed its borders, shut schools and shopping malls and advised people to social distance and stay at home, but hasn't imposed a lockdown.

So far, the country has had 350 coronavirus cases and four deaths.

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees.

Uruguay star Luis Suarez complained on Thursday that he has been "hurt" by criticism of him and fellow millionaire Barcelona players for the time it took to agree to pay cuts to help out other club employees. Argentine superstar Lionel Messi announced on Monday that Barca's players had agreed to a 70 percent pay cut and to make contributions to ensure the club's non-playing staff could be paid in full during the state of alarm in Spain caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Footballers across Europe's top leagues have come under fire as some clubs have made cuts to their non-playing staff or their salaries while many wealthy players have yet to see their incomings affected. "It hurts because we were the first to want to reach an agreement," Suarez told Uruguayan radio station Sport890. "We know the situation the club is in, the situation the world is in right now and it was a minimal detail (holding up the agreement). "But people have said things like us players didn't want to give in; that the basketball and handball players came to an agreement and we didn't. "We hadn't come to an agreement because we were waiting to find the best solution for the club, and to our benefit and trying to help the employees." In announcing the agreement, Messi had directed a thinly veiled swipe at the Barca board, led by president Josep Maria Bartomeu, whom he accused of undermining the players during recent negotiations. His lengthy Instagram post was shared by a slew of teammates, including Suarez. Striker Suarez, who has remained in Spain unlike some of his European-based international teammates such as Edinson Cavani and Diego Godin, called on Uruguay to impose a strict lockdown. "It's the best solution for everyone. I know it's difficult in Uruguay where many people live day to day ... but if we don't all come together and go in the same direction, it's going to be difficult to come out of this situation," he said. Uruguay has partially closed its borders, shut schools and shopping malls and advised people to social distance and stay at home, but hasn't imposed a lockdown. So far, the country has had 350 coronavirus cases and four deaths.

Luis Suarez 'hurt' by criticism of Barcelona players' pay cut delay

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776">Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban</a>

Barca has taken advantage of the regulation that enables Spanish clubs in the top two divisions to buy from another La Liga club outside the transfer window if they lose a player to injury for more than five months.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-confesses-he-sees-weird-things-happening-at-barcelona-281747">Lionel Messi confesses he sees 'weird things happening' at Barcelona</a>

"My ambition has always been to play at this level and when you persevere and you are positive, things end up happening," said Braithwaite after signing his contract.&nbsp;

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Welcome to the Club and the city <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinBraith?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MartinBraith</a>. We wish all the best and great success in this new challenge you start today with Barça <a href="https://t.co/fKZuFVpOeh">pic.twitter.com/fKZuFVpOeh</a>
— Josep Maria Bartomeu (@jmbartomeu) <a href="https://twitter.com/jmbartomeu/status/1230573850380902401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I am very happy to be here because, as a footballer, it is one of the greatest things that can happen to you to play for the best club in the world."

With Ousmane Dembele expected to be out for the rest of the season with a hamstring tear, the Catalans signed Braithwaite after paying the Dane's 18 million euro buy-out clause.

"The player will sign a contract with the Club for the rest of the season and four more until 30 June 2024 with the buy-out clause set at 300 million euros," Barcelona announced on their website earlier in the day.&nbsp;

After also selling Youssef En-Nesyri to Sevilla last month, Braithwaite's exit is a cruel blow for struggling Leganes, who will not be able to bring in a replacement unless an exception is made by La Liga.&nbsp;

"We believe the settlement is unfair," said Leganes chief executive Martin Ortega.

However, Barca president Josep Bartomeu insisted: "Barcelona's attitude has been correct."&nbsp;

"We paid the clause in accordance with the regulations, but we think it should be revised because it is not fair that Leganes cannot therefore recruit."

Leganes sit 19th in the table and play 17th-placed Celta Vigo on Saturday. Braithwaite was their top scorer this season with six goals.&nbsp;

But the 28-year-old's addition will give cover for Barcelona, who were already without Luis Suarez to a knee injury before Dembele's extended absence was confirmed.&nbsp;

The club applied for permission last week to make an emergency signing and were given the green light by La Liga on Monday.&nbsp;

Braithwaite could make his debut when Barca play Eibar at Camp Nou in the league on Saturday but the rule states he will not be allowed to play in the Champions League.

His arrival comes after the club allowed two forwards to leave last month: Carles Perez to &nbsp;Roma and Abel Ruiz to Braga.&nbsp;

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront.

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront. Also read: Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban Barca has taken advantage of the regulation that enables Spanish clubs in the top two divisions to buy from another La Liga club outside the transfer window if they lose a player to injury for more than five months. Also read: Lionel Messi confesses he sees 'weird things happening' at Barcelona "My ambition has always been to play at this level and when you persevere and you are positive, things end up happening," said Braithwaite after signing his contract. Welcome to the Club and the city @MartinBraith. We wish all the best and great success in this new challenge you start today with Barça pic.twitter.com/fKZuFVpOeh — Josep Maria Bartomeu (@jmbartomeu) February 20, 2020 × "I am very happy to be here because, as a footballer, it is one of the greatest things that can happen to you to play for the best club in the world." With Ousmane Dembele expected to be out for the rest of the season with a hamstring tear, the Catalans signed Braithwaite after paying the Dane's 18 million euro buy-out clause. "The player will sign a contract with the Club for the rest of the season and four more until 30 June 2024 with the buy-out clause set at 300 million euros," Barcelona announced on their website earlier in the day. After also selling Youssef En-Nesyri to Sevilla last month, Braithwaite's exit is a cruel blow for struggling Leganes, who will not be able to bring in a replacement unless an exception is made by La Liga. "We believe the settlement is unfair," said Leganes chief executive Martin Ortega. However, Barca president Josep Bartomeu insisted: "Barcelona's attitude has been correct." "We paid the clause in accordance with the regulations, but we think it should be revised because it is not fair that Leganes cannot therefore recruit." Leganes sit 19th in the table and play 17th-placed Celta Vigo on Saturday. Braithwaite was their top scorer this season with six goals. But the 28-year-old's addition will give cover for Barcelona, who were already without Luis Suarez to a knee injury before Dembele's extended absence was confirmed. The club applied for permission last week to make an emergency signing and were given the green light by La Liga on Monday. Braithwaite could make his debut when Barca play Eibar at Camp Nou in the league on Saturday but the rule states he will not be allowed to play in the Champions League. His arrival comes after the club allowed two forwards to leave last month: Carles Perez to Roma and Abel Ruiz to Braga.

Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-el-clasico-to-be-played-on-december-18-spanish-football-federation-257705">Barcelona and Real Madrid</a> could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou.

After being postponed in October, there were renewed fears of unrest around Spain's most famous fixture and while the match was only briefly interrupted by yellow beach balls were thrown onto the pitch, outside the stadium, chaos ensued.

Masked protesters had set bins on fire and thrown rocks and glass bottles at police, who responded by firing foam bullets.

Forty-six people were lightly injured in the clashes, including eight who needed to be taken to a medical centre for extra care, local emergency services said.&nbsp;

Five people were arrested, according to a police spokesman.

The protesters, many of them carrying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fresh-protests-in-spain-over-catalan-sentence-256141">Catalan separatist </a>flags, began setting up barricades in the middle of the street which they then burned after police arrived in dozens of police vans.

Inside the stadium, the match passed largely undisturbed, save for a brief pause early in the second half as dozens of yellow beach balls had to be removed by stewards.

"There was tension in the game and I noticed when some yellow balls fell down," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.&nbsp;

"But nothing more. We tried to give a sense of normality."

"Everyone wanted to see a good football match," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "In that sense, I think we can be happy."

The game was less eventful than expected, with neither Barcelona nor Real ever really at their best and both, perhaps in the end, happier not to win than to lose.&nbsp;

A goalless draw means <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-crash-to-defeat-at-levante-after-second-half-collapse-259630">Barcelona</a> stay top of La Liga, ahead of Real on goal difference while the historic score in league meetings between the two rivals remains 72 victories apiece.&nbsp;

"More than a Clasico", read the front page of Barcelona daily Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday morning ahead of a fixture that while always politically charged, had assumed even greater significance than usual.&nbsp;

The game was originally due to be played on October 26 but was postponed due to violent protests breaking out across Catalonia, following the sentencing of nine independence leaders to prison.

In the 53 days since, expectations swelled around what Democratic Tsunami, the Catalan independence protest group, might do to disrupt the most-watched club football match in the world.&nbsp;

Bale 'goal' ruled out&nbsp;

But in truth, there was less than expected during the 90 minutes.&nbsp;

Early in the second half, yellow beachballs were thrown onto the field while blue banners bearing the slogan of Democratic Tsunami: 'Spain, sit and talk', were also held up.&nbsp;

Four hours before kick-off, thousands had gathered at all four corners of the stadium to hold the same blue banners and wave Catalan flags, while some blocked traffic too.&nbsp;

But the demonstrations were peaceful, in stark contrast to the ugly scenes that would come a few hours later.

Both teams had departed from the same hotel and aside from whistles and insults directed at the Madrid team bus, each arrived without incident. Club president Florentino Perez gave a thumbs-up as he walked in.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Gareth Bale</a> was last to get off, by which time he might have known he was starting for the first time in four matches. Ramos played in his 43rd Clasico, a record for any player in history.&nbsp;

For Barcelona, Sergio Busquets was included in the line-up first announced before he was swapped out for Ivan Rakitic. Barca claimed it had been a communication error.&nbsp;

If it was, it was not the first mistake of the night, with a frantic first half full of them.&nbsp;

Real were the better side in the opening half an hour although Luis Suarez might have scored early had he controlled Jordi Alba's cross at the back post.&nbsp;

There was a goalline clearance at both ends as Casemiro's header bounced up and had to be hooked away by Gerard Pique before Thibaut Courtois punched out to Messi but his shot was blocked by Ramos.&nbsp;

Shortly after the interval, stewards ran on to collect the beach balls and then Barcelona twice should have scored, only for Lionel Messi and Suarez both to fluff finishes in quick succession.&nbsp;

Bale scored with 15 minutes left but his provider Ferland Mendy was a fraction offside. Neither team wanted to go for broke in the latter stages.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Real Madrid could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou.

Barcelona and Real Madrid could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou. After being postponed in October, there were renewed fears of unrest around Spain's most famous fixture and while the match was only briefly interrupted by yellow beach balls were thrown onto the pitch, outside the stadium, chaos ensued. Masked protesters had set bins on fire and thrown rocks and glass bottles at police, who responded by firing foam bullets. Forty-six people were lightly injured in the clashes, including eight who needed to be taken to a medical centre for extra care, local emergency services said. Five people were arrested, according to a police spokesman. The protesters, many of them carrying Catalan separatist flags, began setting up barricades in the middle of the street which they then burned after police arrived in dozens of police vans. Inside the stadium, the match passed largely undisturbed, save for a brief pause early in the second half as dozens of yellow beach balls had to be removed by stewards. "There was tension in the game and I noticed when some yellow balls fell down," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde. "But nothing more. We tried to give a sense of normality." "Everyone wanted to see a good football match," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "In that sense, I think we can be happy." The game was less eventful than expected, with neither Barcelona nor Real ever really at their best and both, perhaps in the end, happier not to win than to lose. A goalless draw means Barcelona stay top of La Liga, ahead of Real on goal difference while the historic score in league meetings between the two rivals remains 72 victories apiece. "More than a Clasico", read the front page of Barcelona daily Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday morning ahead of a fixture that while always politically charged, had assumed even greater significance than usual. The game was originally due to be played on October 26 but was postponed due to violent protests breaking out across Catalonia, following the sentencing of nine independence leaders to prison. In the 53 days since, expectations swelled around what Democratic Tsunami, the Catalan independence protest group, might do to disrupt the most-watched club football match in the world. Bale 'goal' ruled out But in truth, there was less than expected during the 90 minutes. Early in the second half, yellow beachballs were thrown onto the field while blue banners bearing the slogan of Democratic Tsunami: 'Spain, sit and talk', were also held up. Four hours before kick-off, thousands had gathered at all four corners of the stadium to hold the same blue banners and wave Catalan flags, while some blocked traffic too. But the demonstrations were peaceful, in stark contrast to the ugly scenes that would come a few hours later. Both teams had departed from the same hotel and aside from whistles and insults directed at the Madrid team bus, each arrived without incident. Club president Florentino Perez gave a thumbs-up as he walked in. Gareth Bale was last to get off, by which time he might have known he was starting for the first time in four matches. Ramos played in his 43rd Clasico, a record for any player in history. For Barcelona, Sergio Busquets was included in the line-up first announced before he was swapped out for Ivan Rakitic. Barca claimed it had been a communication error. If it was, it was not the first mistake of the night, with a frantic first half full of them. Real were the better side in the opening half an hour although Luis Suarez might have scored early had he controlled Jordi Alba's cross at the back post. There was a goalline clearance at both ends as Casemiro's header bounced up and had to be hooked away by Gerard Pique before Thibaut Courtois punched out to Messi but his shot was blocked by Ramos. Shortly after the interval, stewards ran on to collect the beach balls and then Barcelona twice should have scored, only for Lionel Messi and Suarez both to fluff finishes in quick succession. Bale scored with 15 minutes left but his provider Ferland Mendy was a fraction offside. Neither team wanted to go for broke in the latter stages.

Barcelona, Real Madrid draw as Clasico marred by violence

Barcelona needed a late winner from Arturo Vidal to beat bottom-club Leganes 2-1 on Saturday and dig out a much-needed victory ahead of what could prove a crucial month in their season.&nbsp;

Vidal poked in a fortuitous goal in the 79th minute at Butarque after Luis Suarez headed home a Lionel Messi free-kick to cancel out a brilliant opener from Leganes forward Youssef En-Nesyri.&nbsp;

Barcelona stay top of the table, three points above Real Madrid, who play later on Saturday at home to La Liga's surprise high-fliers Real Sociedad.&nbsp;

A gritty victory will also come as a relief to under-pressure coach Ernesto Valverde, whose team now turn their attention to Wednesday's crunch Champions League group game against Borussia Dortmund at Camp Nou.

A goalless draw against Slavia Prague earlier this month means Barca's qualification from Group F is no longer guaranteed.&nbsp;

After Dortmund, they then play away at Atletico Madrid in La Liga to start a month that will include trips to Inter Milan in the Champions League and Real Sociedad in La Liga before the season's first Clasico at home to Real Madrid.&nbsp;

It was important therefore to avoid a slip against Leganes, playing their first game in front of their own fans since appointing Javier Aguirre as coach.&nbsp;

"It was a big win because the game was very difficult," Valverde said. "The pitch was dreadful, there was a lot of wind and they scored early. &nbsp;

"I don't want it to sound like an excuse but it made it hard and still we were able to win. It wasn't a brilliant game but these are the ones you have to win to win the title."

The home side made the perfect start as En-Nesyri beat Gerard Pique with a wonderful early striker.&nbsp;

Pique has spent the international break juggling football with the Davis Cup, the revamped tennis tournament in Madrid that he is organising through his marketing company Kosmos. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"There is more noise outside the club than inside," said Pique after the match. "I think it's got a bit out of hand - whether I'm in Madrid, eating here, having dinner there - it's all part of the circus. But I do my job. I come here, I play football. And that's it."

Doubts about the defender's focus would not have been allayed in the opening quarter of an hour.&nbsp;

One pass from Roque Mesa was enough to set En-Nesyri free against the 32-year-old in the 12th minute.&nbsp;

Pique jostled but was taken by surprise as En-Nesyri nipped inside and bent a shot into the far corner. Leganes might have had a second soon after and Pique would have been at fault, the defender allowing Martin Braithwaite in after failing to clear, but Oscar Rodriguez was unable to capitalise.&nbsp;

Crosses were a weakness for Leganes as three Barcelona headers all could have gone in. Suarez went close. Pique hit the post. Then Suarez did find the net, glancing in Messi's clipped free-kick for his ninth goal of the season.

Barca's second owed much to luck but it came from another cross. Pique rose to head in but the ball missed him and cannoned off the foot of Ruben Perez. Vidal was waiting on the line to prod in.&nbsp;

Barcelona needed a late winner from Arturo Vidal to beat bottom-club Leganes 2-1 on Saturday and dig out a much-needed victory ahead of what could prove a crucial month in their season.

Barcelona needed a late winner from Arturo Vidal to beat bottom-club Leganes 2-1 on Saturday and dig out a much-needed victory ahead of what could prove a crucial month in their season. Vidal poked in a fortuitous goal in the 79th minute at Butarque after Luis Suarez headed home a Lionel Messi free-kick to cancel out a brilliant opener from Leganes forward Youssef En-Nesyri. Barcelona stay top of the table, three points above Real Madrid, who play later on Saturday at home to La Liga's surprise high-fliers Real Sociedad. A gritty victory will also come as a relief to under-pressure coach Ernesto Valverde, whose team now turn their attention to Wednesday's crunch Champions League group game against Borussia Dortmund at Camp Nou. A goalless draw against Slavia Prague earlier this month means Barca's qualification from Group F is no longer guaranteed. After Dortmund, they then play away at Atletico Madrid in La Liga to start a month that will include trips to Inter Milan in the Champions League and Real Sociedad in La Liga before the season's first Clasico at home to Real Madrid. It was important therefore to avoid a slip against Leganes, playing their first game in front of their own fans since appointing Javier Aguirre as coach. "It was a big win because the game was very difficult," Valverde said. "The pitch was dreadful, there was a lot of wind and they scored early. "I don't want it to sound like an excuse but it made it hard and still we were able to win. It wasn't a brilliant game but these are the ones you have to win to win the title." The home side made the perfect start as En-Nesyri beat Gerard Pique with a wonderful early striker. Pique has spent the international break juggling football with the Davis Cup, the revamped tennis tournament in Madrid that he is organising through his marketing company Kosmos. "There is more noise outside the club than inside," said Pique after the match. "I think it's got a bit out of hand - whether I'm in Madrid, eating here, having dinner there - it's all part of the circus. But I do my job. I come here, I play football. And that's it." Doubts about the defender's focus would not have been allayed in the opening quarter of an hour. One pass from Roque Mesa was enough to set En-Nesyri free against the 32-year-old in the 12th minute. Pique jostled but was taken by surprise as En-Nesyri nipped inside and bent a shot into the far corner. Leganes might have had a second soon after and Pique would have been at fault, the defender allowing Martin Braithwaite in after failing to clear, but Oscar Rodriguez was unable to capitalise. Crosses were a weakness for Leganes as three Barcelona headers all could have gone in. Suarez went close. Pique hit the post. Then Suarez did find the net, glancing in Messi's clipped free-kick for his ninth goal of the season. Barca's second owed much to luck but it came from another cross. Pique rose to head in but the ball missed him and cannoned off the foot of Ruben Perez. Vidal was waiting on the line to prod in.

La Liga: Arturo Vidal's late strike ensure Barcelona go past bottom-placed Leganes

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez suffered a right leg injury during his side's defeat at Athletic Bilbao in Friday's La Liga opener, the Spanish champions have confirmed.

Suarez joins Lionel Messi on the sidelines after hobbling off in the 37th minute at San Mames, leaving Barca without their two premium strikers.

Messi sustained a calf injury in training earlier this month and was not deemed ready for the match.

Barcelona did not reveal how long Suarez would be out of action for, saying on Saturday he had a "right leg" injury and that his availability depended on his recovery.

The Uruguayan was replaced in the central striker's role by new signing Antoine Griezmann, but Bilbao veteran Aritz Aduriz stole the show by coming off the bench and snatching a 1-0 win with a spectacular scissor kick.

As well as Messi, Suarez and Griezmann, Barcelona have Ousmane Dembele as another option in the front three while the club are negotiating with Paris Saint-Germain over re-signing Neymar.

Philippe Coutinho, however, looks set to leave the club. Barca director Guillermo Amor told Movistar on Friday that there was an "agreement in principle" for the Brazilian to join Bayern Munich on loan.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez suffered a right leg injury during his side's defeat at Athletic Bilbao in Friday's La Liga opener, the Spanish champions have confirmed.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez suffered a right leg injury during his side's defeat at Athletic Bilbao in Friday's La Liga opener, the Spanish champions have confirmed. Suarez joins Lionel Messi on the sidelines after hobbling off in the 37th minute at San Mames, leaving Barca without their two premium strikers. Messi sustained a calf injury in training earlier this month and was not deemed ready for the match. Barcelona did not reveal how long Suarez would be out of action for, saying on Saturday he had a "right leg" injury and that his availability depended on his recovery. The Uruguayan was replaced in the central striker's role by new signing Antoine Griezmann, but Bilbao veteran Aritz Aduriz stole the show by coming off the bench and snatching a 1-0 win with a spectacular scissor kick. As well as Messi, Suarez and Griezmann, Barcelona have Ousmane Dembele as another option in the front three while the club are negotiating with Paris Saint-Germain over re-signing Neymar. Philippe Coutinho, however, looks set to leave the club. Barca director Guillermo Amor told Movistar on Friday that there was an "agreement in principle" for the Brazilian to join Bayern Munich on loan.

Barcelona confirm Suarez suffered leg injury in La Liga opener

Luis Suarez scored twice, Antoine Griezmann netted his first goal for Barcelona and the Lionel Messi-less Spanish side ripped Napoli 4-0 Saturday in its final La Liga season tuneup.

Six days before Barcelona's opener against Atletico Bilbao, and with new talk swirling about a possible Neymar return to Camp Nou, the Spanish club routed the same Italian side that fell 2-1 to Barca on Wednesday in Miami.

Messi did not make the US trip due to a calf injury but no Messi proved no problem for Barcelona.

A crowd of 60,043 at 110,000-seat Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was treated to an exquisite passing display by Barcelona, which netted four goals in 15 minutes to seal Napoli's fate.

Suarez opened the scoring in the 48th minute, the Uruguayan forward blasting in a rebound after a Griezmann shot had been denied, Napoli protesting in vain the French striker had been offside.

Griezmann opened his Barcelona goal account in the 56th minute after an impressive run by defender Jordi Alba. The Spaniard charged deep into the box, then flicked a pass to his right and Griezmann netted a left-footed tap-in to lift Barcelona ahead 2-0.

Before Napoli could regain composure, Suarez found the net against with a beauty in the 58th minute, the South American firing a right-footed blast from the top of the box and tucking the ball just inside the right goalpost.

French striker Ousmane Dembele completed the scoring in the 63rd minute, his right-footed blast for the right side tucking just inside the far post.

In France, meanwhile, Neymar was left out of Paris Saint-Germain's opener and club sporting director Leonardo said transfer talks are "more advanced than before" regarding the Brazilian.

A move to Real Madrid or a return to Barcelona are seen as the most likely destinations for the world's most expensive footballer, with Spanish media on Friday saying that Zinedine Zidane's side will battle Barca for the 27-year-old's signature.

Luis Suarez scored twice, Antoine Griezmann netted his first goal for Barcelona and the Lionel Messi-less Spanish side ripped Napoli 4-0 Saturday in its final La Liga season tuneup.

Luis Suarez scored twice, Antoine Griezmann netted his first goal for Barcelona and the Lionel Messi-less Spanish side ripped Napoli 4-0 Saturday in its final La Liga season tuneup. Six days before Barcelona's opener against Atletico Bilbao, and with new talk swirling about a possible Neymar return to Camp Nou, the Spanish club routed the same Italian side that fell 2-1 to Barca on Wednesday in Miami. Messi did not make the US trip due to a calf injury but no Messi proved no problem for Barcelona. A crowd of 60,043 at 110,000-seat Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was treated to an exquisite passing display by Barcelona, which netted four goals in 15 minutes to seal Napoli's fate. Suarez opened the scoring in the 48th minute, the Uruguayan forward blasting in a rebound after a Griezmann shot had been denied, Napoli protesting in vain the French striker had been offside. Griezmann opened his Barcelona goal account in the 56th minute after an impressive run by defender Jordi Alba. The Spaniard charged deep into the box, then flicked a pass to his right and Griezmann netted a left-footed tap-in to lift Barcelona ahead 2-0. Before Napoli could regain composure, Suarez found the net against with a beauty in the 58th minute, the South American firing a right-footed blast from the top of the box and tucking the ball just inside the right goalpost. French striker Ousmane Dembele completed the scoring in the 63rd minute, his right-footed blast for the right side tucking just inside the far post. In France, meanwhile, Neymar was left out of Paris Saint-Germain's opener and club sporting director Leonardo said transfer talks are "more advanced than before" regarding the Brazilian. A move to Real Madrid or a return to Barcelona are seen as the most likely destinations for the world's most expensive footballer, with Spanish media on Friday saying that Zinedine Zidane's side will battle Barca for the 27-year-old's signature.

Luis Suarez's brace, Antoine Griezmann goal power Barca over Napoli

Luis Suarez's late volley saw Barcelona to a 2-1 win in the Joan Gamper Trophy friendly in front of a bumper crowd at the Camp Nou, as Antoine Griezmann made his home debut following his big-money move from Atletico Madrid.

Suarez flashed home Sergi Roberto's lofted pass in the 89th minute in front of nearly 99,000 people, who packed the stands to see new signings Griezmann and Frenckie De Jong, with his strike and Ainsley Maitland-Niles' comical own goal&nbsp;cancelling out Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's fine first-half opener.

"It was an entertaining game, the atmosphere was great and it was a privilege to reunite with our fans," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.

"I think we did well, but perhaps in the first half we lacked a bit of rhythm."

Barca are aiming for European glory this campaign after suffering Champions League humiliations against Roma and Liverpool the last two seasons.

Before the match captain, Lionel Messi addressed those defeats -- which saw Barca throw away comfortable first-leg leads before being dumped out -- in a speech to the crowd.

However, Messi didn't take the field and it was&nbsp;left to his long-time strike partner rather than the new boys to see off the Gunners after a powerful second-half display.

Luis Suarez's late volley saw Barcelona to a 2-1 win in the Joan Gamper Trophy friendly in front of a bumper crowd at the Camp Nou, as Antoine Griezmann made his home debut following his big-money move from Atletico Madrid.

Luis Suarez's late volley saw Barcelona to a 2-1 win in the Joan Gamper Trophy friendly in front of a bumper crowd at the Camp Nou, as Antoine Griezmann made his home debut following his big-money move from Atletico Madrid. Suarez flashed home Sergi Roberto's lofted pass in the 89th minute in front of nearly 99,000 people, who packed the stands to see new signings Griezmann and Frenckie De Jong, with his strike and Ainsley Maitland-Niles' comical own goal cancelling out Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's fine first-half opener. "It was an entertaining game, the atmosphere was great and it was a privilege to reunite with our fans," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde. "I think we did well, but perhaps in the first half we lacked a bit of rhythm." Barca are aiming for European glory this campaign after suffering Champions League humiliations against Roma and Liverpool the last two seasons. Before the match captain, Lionel Messi addressed those defeats -- which saw Barca throw away comfortable first-leg leads before being dumped out -- in a speech to the crowd. However, Messi didn't take the field and it was left to his long-time strike partner rather than the new boys to see off the Gunners after a powerful second-half display.

99,000 fans see Luis Suarez sink Arsenal in Antoine Griezman's Camp Nou debut

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is confident new signing Antoine Griezmann will have no problems linking up with strike partners Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez when the trio finally appear in the same team together.

Griezmann, who signed from La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid earlier this month, has been with the squad on Barcelona’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carles-perez-double-as-barcelona-beat-iniestas-vissel-kobe-2-0-238859">tour of Japan</a> and featured in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carles-perez-double-as-barcelona-beat-iniestas-vissel-kobe-2-0-238859">side’s 2-0 win over Vissel Kobe</a> on Saturday.

However, following their exploits in the Copa America, Messi and Suarez have been given an extended break and will not link up with the team until they return from Japan.

With 682 La Liga goals between them, Valverde is understandably excited about the attacking trident and believes Griezmann might be the missing part of the puzzle as Barcelona chase their first Champions League trophy since 2015.

"It's true that some players who are good fit in together easier," said Valverde.

"We will see the relationship socially and at the camp. We are excited for this opportunity.

"We believe in balance in the team, in front or in the back, he (Griezmann) moves quick, he passes well, and finds space and this is what we were missing."

Two second-half goals from 21-year-old academy graduate Carles Perez were enough to seal the win over Kobe, who featured former Barca players Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper on Saturday.

"Carles Perez scored two goals today, so it's a good news for his potential and shows how we can bring the young guys forward," Valverde said.

Former Barca captain Iniesta, who left the club after 16 trophy-filled years last year, said it was an odd afternoon playing against former teammates such as Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic.

"Well, it's a bit strange of course (to play against Barcelona)," said the 35-year-old.

"You spend so long playing with the same players... it's strange, special.

"But at the start of the match you are clearly focusing on playing and trying to give a good impression."

Barcelona's next pre-season match is against Arsenal at the Nou Camp on August 7.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is confident new signing Antoine Griezmann will have no problems linking up with strike partners Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez when the trio finally appear in the same team together.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is confident new signing Antoine Griezmann will have no problems linking up with strike partners Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez when the trio finally appear in the same team together. Griezmann, who signed from La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid earlier this month, has been with the squad on Barcelona’s tour of Japan and featured in the side’s 2-0 win over Vissel Kobe on Saturday. However, following their exploits in the Copa America, Messi and Suarez have been given an extended break and will not link up with the team until they return from Japan. With 682 La Liga goals between them, Valverde is understandably excited about the attacking trident and believes Griezmann might be the missing part of the puzzle as Barcelona chase their first Champions League trophy since 2015. "It's true that some players who are good fit in together easier," said Valverde. "We will see the relationship socially and at the camp. We are excited for this opportunity. "We believe in balance in the team, in front or in the back, he (Griezmann) moves quick, he passes well, and finds space and this is what we were missing." Two second-half goals from 21-year-old academy graduate Carles Perez were enough to seal the win over Kobe, who featured former Barca players Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper on Saturday. "Carles Perez scored two goals today, so it's a good news for his potential and shows how we can bring the young guys forward," Valverde said. Former Barca captain Iniesta, who left the club after 16 trophy-filled years last year, said it was an odd afternoon playing against former teammates such as Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic. "Well, it's a bit strange of course (to play against Barcelona)," said the 35-year-old. "You spend so long playing with the same players... it's strange, special. "But at the start of the match you are clearly focusing on playing and trying to give a good impression." Barcelona's next pre-season match is against Arsenal at the Nou Camp on August 7.

Ernesto Valverde backs Griezmann to connect with Messi, Suarez

Luis Suarez broke down in tears after his shootout miss saw Uruguay dumped out of the Copa America by unfancied Peru on Saturday, the 15 times champions losing 5-4 on penalties after having three goals ruled out in a scoreless draw.

Suarez spurned the first penalty of the shootout, his effort bouncing off the chest of Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, to complete a frustrating evening for Uruguay's all-time top scorer, who also had a goal ruled out for offside.

Every other player converted their spot kicks and Edison Flores sealed Peru's place in the last four by blasting past Fernando Muslera.

Suarez, who rushed back to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery in May in order to make it for the Copa, covered his face with his shirt and was consoled by teammates after the shootout defeat.

"Luis was very sad, he ended up missing in a decisive moment but that's football and life," Edinson Cavani told reporters.

"Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. We have won the Copa before but today we have to accept that we are out."

Peru will face neighbours Chile in the last four, with tournament hosts Brazil meeting arch-rivals Argentina in the other semi-final clash.

"I am very proud. I am speechless," said striker Paolo Guerrero after scoring in the shootout.

"People said before Uruguay were the favourites but being favourites means nothing in football, especially in South America."

Uruguay dominated the play during the game but Cavani, Giorgian de Arrascaeta and then Suarez all had goals chalked off for offside which were each verified by VAR checks.

They became the third team in this tournament to lose a quarter-final tie on penalties after a goalless draw after Paraguay were beaten by Brazil and Chile beat Colombia on spot-kicks.

There is no extra time in Copa America quarter-finals in the event of a draw, although 30 minutes will be added on in the semi-finals and final if necessary.

Uruguay defender Diego Godin lamented his side's inability to convert their chances.

"We were just missing a goal, we kept looking for it but it didn't come and if we had scored it would have been a different game," he said.

"We played well, but unfortunately we've been knocked out. We couldn't score and they struck their penalties better than we did."

Uruguay won the Copa America for a record 15th time in 2011 but they have underachieved in their last three appearances, losing to Chile in the last eight in 2015 and exiting in the group stage in 2016.

"This is a huge disappointment because we came here wanting to win and we tried to impose ourselves on the game," added Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez.

"We have to accept the defeat and congratulate Peru because they didn't do anything against the rules. They tried to slow down the game and they didn't take risks, something we have done many times before."

Luis Suarez broke down in tears after his shootout miss saw Uruguay dumped out of the Copa America by unfancied Peru on Saturday, the 15 times champions losing 5-4 on penalties after having three goals ruled out in a scoreless draw.

Luis Suarez broke down in tears after his shootout miss saw Uruguay dumped out of the Copa America by unfancied Peru on Saturday, the 15 times champions losing 5-4 on penalties after having three goals ruled out in a scoreless draw. Suarez spurned the first penalty of the shootout, his effort bouncing off the chest of Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, to complete a frustrating evening for Uruguay's all-time top scorer, who also had a goal ruled out for offside. Every other player converted their spot kicks and Edison Flores sealed Peru's place in the last four by blasting past Fernando Muslera. Suarez, who rushed back to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery in May in order to make it for the Copa, covered his face with his shirt and was consoled by teammates after the shootout defeat. "Luis was very sad, he ended up missing in a decisive moment but that's football and life," Edinson Cavani told reporters. "Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. We have won the Copa before but today we have to accept that we are out." Peru will face neighbours Chile in the last four, with tournament hosts Brazil meeting arch-rivals Argentina in the other semi-final clash. "I am very proud. I am speechless," said striker Paolo Guerrero after scoring in the shootout. "People said before Uruguay were the favourites but being favourites means nothing in football, especially in South America." Uruguay dominated the play during the game but Cavani, Giorgian de Arrascaeta and then Suarez all had goals chalked off for offside which were each verified by VAR checks. They became the third team in this tournament to lose a quarter-final tie on penalties after a goalless draw after Paraguay were beaten by Brazil and Chile beat Colombia on spot-kicks. There is no extra time in Copa America quarter-finals in the event of a draw, although 30 minutes will be added on in the semi-finals and final if necessary. Uruguay defender Diego Godin lamented his side's inability to convert their chances. "We were just missing a goal, we kept looking for it but it didn't come and if we had scored it would have been a different game," he said. "We played well, but unfortunately we've been knocked out. We couldn't score and they struck their penalties better than we did." Uruguay won the Copa America for a record 15th time in 2011 but they have underachieved in their last three appearances, losing to Chile in the last eight in 2015 and exiting in the group stage in 2016. "This is a huge disappointment because we came here wanting to win and we tried to impose ourselves on the game," added Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez. "We have to accept the defeat and congratulate Peru because they didn't do anything against the rules. They tried to slow down the game and they didn't take risks, something we have done many times before."

Copa America: Luis Suarez devastated as shootout miss sees Uruguay crash out

Brazil coach Tite joined the chorus of players and officials complaining about the Copa America pitches, saying it was "absurd" to play on surfaces like the one on which the hosts beat Paraguay on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-reach-semi-final-with-shootout-win-over-paraguay-231055&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwq427y4vjAhUHiHAKHVHJBJ4QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1otE8Lgeq-gzAgJlPAcYM9">Brazil </a>won the quarter-final 4-3 on penalties after the two sides drew 0-0 after 90 minutes.

Tite said the level of play at the Gremio arena was negatively impacted by the uneven surface.

"It's absurd that at this high level we are playing on pitches where it is difficult to control the ball," Tite told reporters.

"Players need three touches to control it. It's absurd,"&nbsp;Tite said.

Renato Portaluppi, coach of Brazilian side Gremio, said earlier this week that 'the grass is sadly not in the best condition'.

Other players and officials had also voiced their disapproval of the playing surfaces used in the tournament.

One of the biggest critics was Lionel Messi, who suffered in the game against Qatar when a cutback onto his path hit a divot right before he took a shot for goal.

"(The ball) bumps a lot on the field. All the fields we played on were very bad. It is hard," Messi said after Qatar's clash.&nbsp;

The usually precise Barcelona forward skied the ball way over the bar and later explained, the ball 'kicks up a lot. All the pitches we've played on have been terrible. It's difficult.'

Uruguay's Luis Suarez and Colombia's James Rodriguez also dissed the uneven surfaces with the Fonte Nova in Salvador and the Maracana in Rio copping maximum criticism.

"When I (complained), I was criticised. They said I was making excuses. But you can't be playing on pitches like that," said Argentina coach <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-scaloni-expects-a-tough-start-as-argentina-prepare-to-face-colombia-227344&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzre-Fy4vjAhVHNo8KHXlzAeQQFjACegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0vQFC0L1UwqHCvm7LEsD8x">Lionel Scaloni.</a>

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-organisers-satisfied-with-use-of-var-despite-lengthy-delays-230565&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzre-Fy4vjAhVHNo8KHXlzAeQQFjAFegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3iVDTqmigO3g_dxIAgUng0">Organisers </a>rejected the criticism.

"We see flat pitches, with an ideal covering of grass," Thiago Jannuzzi, the organising committee's competitions manager, told reporters earlier this week while discussing the tournament's progress.

"The pitches are appropriate for the tournament,"&nbsp;Jannuzzi said.

Brazil, who are seeking to win the Copa for the first time since 2007, will now hope for a better surface at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte, where they will play the semi-final against either Argentina or Venezuela.

The venue bears the scars for Brazil where they suffered a 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final.

Brazil coach Tite joined the chorus of players and officials complaining about the Copa America pitches, saying it was "absurd" to play on surfaces like the one on which the hosts beat Paraguay on Thursday.

Brazil coach Tite joined the chorus of players and officials complaining about the Copa America pitches, saying it was "absurd" to play on surfaces like the one on which the hosts beat Paraguay on Thursday. Brazil won the quarter-final 4-3 on penalties after the two sides drew 0-0 after 90 minutes. Tite said the level of play at the Gremio arena was negatively impacted by the uneven surface. "It's absurd that at this high level we are playing on pitches where it is difficult to control the ball," Tite told reporters. "Players need three touches to control it. It's absurd," Tite said. Renato Portaluppi, coach of Brazilian side Gremio, said earlier this week that 'the grass is sadly not in the best condition'. Other players and officials had also voiced their disapproval of the playing surfaces used in the tournament. One of the biggest critics was Lionel Messi, who suffered in the game against Qatar when a cutback onto his path hit a divot right before he took a shot for goal. "(The ball) bumps a lot on the field. All the fields we played on were very bad. It is hard," Messi said after Qatar's clash. The usually precise Barcelona forward skied the ball way over the bar and later explained, the ball 'kicks up a lot. All the pitches we've played on have been terrible. It's difficult.' Uruguay's Luis Suarez and Colombia's James Rodriguez also dissed the uneven surfaces with the Fonte Nova in Salvador and the Maracana in Rio copping maximum criticism. "When I (complained), I was criticised. They said I was making excuses. But you can't be playing on pitches like that," said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. Organisers rejected the criticism. "We see flat pitches, with an ideal covering of grass," Thiago Jannuzzi, the organising committee's competitions manager, told reporters earlier this week while discussing the tournament's progress. "The pitches are appropriate for the tournament," Jannuzzi said. Brazil, who are seeking to win the Copa for the first time since 2007, will now hope for a better surface at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte, where they will play the semi-final against either Argentina or Venezuela. The venue bears the scars for Brazil where they suffered a 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final.

Copa America: We're playing on terrible pitches, says Argentina's Lionel Messi

Uruguay demonstrated a winning attitude and mentality in their 1-0 Copa America success over Chile on Monday that gave them top spot in Group C, match-winner Edinson Cavani said.

Uruguay began the game in second place in their pool behind the reigning champions and facing a dauting potential quarter-final tie with Colombia, the only side to go through the group stage with three wins.

But Cavani's header eight minutes from time from Jonathan Rodriguez's cross propelled Uruguay above Chile and into, what looks on paper at least, an easier last eight challenge against Peru.

"In some moments we played well, in other moments less well, but always with the (right) attitude and mentality we were able to snatch the game," said the 32-year-old, who scored his 48th goal for his country.

But the Paris Saint-Germain forward insisted thoughts of a potentially easier quarter-final draw played no role in Uruguay's approach.

"We wanted to win the group without knowing what would come next, to show a good image in the group and continue with this attitude," he said following the match at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana stadium.

Captain Diego Godín said this win "is important for confidence, to rediscover the feelings after Japan" in which they were surprisingly held to a 2-2 draw.

Veteran coach Oscar Tabarez admitted there was little between the two sides.

"It was a keenly contested match with few spaces. We managed a little bit better than our opponents," he said.

More so than avoiding Colombia, Tabarez was most pleased that Uruguay will get an extra day of rest ahead of their quarter-final, against a Peru side that has had two extra days to recover from their pool efforts, on Saturday in Salvador.

Chile will face Colombia the day before in Sao Paulo.

"One extra day of rest is useful, it's important, because we're on the limit," said Tabarez.

Chile's Colombian coach Reinaldo Rueda, who was jeered by many of his team's fans when his name was announced before the match, said his side were beaten by "Uruguay's strength" -- their aerial game.

"Undoubtedly, it was a very close game. We knew about our opponents' quality, with a well defined system, a difficult style in terms of their aerial game," he said.

"But we played very well, we showed character, we showed discipline."

Still, defeat was hard to take.

"We lost, that's tough on the players' motivation," said Rueda.

Uruguay demonstrated a winning attitude and mentality in their 1-0 Copa America success over Chile on Monday that gave them top spot in Group C, match-winner Edinson Cavani said.

Uruguay demonstrated a winning attitude and mentality in their 1-0 Copa America success over Chile on Monday that gave them top spot in Group C, match-winner Edinson Cavani said. Uruguay began the game in second place in their pool behind the reigning champions and facing a dauting potential quarter-final tie with Colombia, the only side to go through the group stage with three wins. But Cavani's header eight minutes from time from Jonathan Rodriguez's cross propelled Uruguay above Chile and into, what looks on paper at least, an easier last eight challenge against Peru. "In some moments we played well, in other moments less well, but always with the (right) attitude and mentality we were able to snatch the game," said the 32-year-old, who scored his 48th goal for his country. But the Paris Saint-Germain forward insisted thoughts of a potentially easier quarter-final draw played no role in Uruguay's approach. "We wanted to win the group without knowing what would come next, to show a good image in the group and continue with this attitude," he said following the match at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Maracana stadium. Captain Diego Godín said this win "is important for confidence, to rediscover the feelings after Japan" in which they were surprisingly held to a 2-2 draw. Veteran coach Oscar Tabarez admitted there was little between the two sides. "It was a keenly contested match with few spaces. We managed a little bit better than our opponents," he said. More so than avoiding Colombia, Tabarez was most pleased that Uruguay will get an extra day of rest ahead of their quarter-final, against a Peru side that has had two extra days to recover from their pool efforts, on Saturday in Salvador. Chile will face Colombia the day before in Sao Paulo. "One extra day of rest is useful, it's important, because we're on the limit," said Tabarez. Chile's Colombian coach Reinaldo Rueda, who was jeered by many of his team's fans when his name was announced before the match, said his side were beaten by "Uruguay's strength" -- their aerial game. "Undoubtedly, it was a very close game. We knew about our opponents' quality, with a well defined system, a difficult style in terms of their aerial game," he said. "But we played very well, we showed character, we showed discipline." Still, defeat was hard to take. "We lost, that's tough on the players' motivation," said Rueda.

Edinson Cavani praises Uruguay's 'attitude' and 'mentality' in Chile win

Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes.

"We have to correct mistakes and praise the positive things. We were the ones who created the most-clear chances. That is why we left with a bittersweet feeling," Goal.com quoted Suarez, as saying.

Japan's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-koji-miyoshi-shines-japan-plays-2-2-draw-against-uruguay-229170&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwith4L1z_riAhUVfSsKHclzDeMQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw06YhH9IL0kZ4xoZpoRzoto">Koji Miyoshi</a> scored the opening goal of the match but just after seven minutes, Suarez scored an equaliser through a penalty.

Miyoshi, in the 59th minute, again netted a goal for his side.

However, Jose Gimenez's goal in the 66th minute brought the score to 2-2 and the match concluded on the same.

Despite admitting that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-luis-suarez-edinson-cavani-score-as-uruguay-crush-10-man-ecuador-227872&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwith4L1z_riAhUVfSsKHclzDeMQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1wVib59FhEK8YYuE1B8Sn9">Uruguay </a>played a good game, Suarez said that they have to be more careful.

"We played a good game at a general level, but we have the consequence that in this kind of tournament you have two mistakes and they make two goals and you have to be more careful," he said.

Japan was coming to the match after they faced a humiliating 0-4 defeat against Chile in their opening match of the tournament.

Suarez opined that Japan's performance against Chile was not a true reflection as the team has a lot of quality.

"We knew that Japan's performance with Chile was not a true reflection.

They are quick, they have a lot of quality, they put pressure on us and they did not let us play well," Suarez said.

Uruguay will now face Chile on June 25.

Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes.

Uruguay's 2-2 draw against Japan in the Copa America on Friday left Luis Suarez with a bittersweet feeling, who insisted that they need to correct their mistakes. "We have to correct mistakes and praise the positive things. We were the ones who created the most-clear chances. That is why we left with a bittersweet feeling," Goal.com quoted Suarez, as saying. Japan's Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal of the match but just after seven minutes, Suarez scored an equaliser through a penalty. Miyoshi, in the 59th minute, again netted a goal for his side. However, Jose Gimenez's goal in the 66th minute brought the score to 2-2 and the match concluded on the same. Despite admitting that Uruguay played a good game, Suarez said that they have to be more careful. "We played a good game at a general level, but we have the consequence that in this kind of tournament you have two mistakes and they make two goals and you have to be more careful," he said. Japan was coming to the match after they faced a humiliating 0-4 defeat against Chile in their opening match of the tournament. Suarez opined that Japan's performance against Chile was not a true reflection as the team has a lot of quality. "We knew that Japan's performance with Chile was not a true reflection. They are quick, they have a lot of quality, they put pressure on us and they did not let us play well," Suarez said. Uruguay will now face Chile on June 25.

Copa America: Uruguay's Luis Suarez wants to correct mistakes after draw against Japan

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-colombia-defeats-qatar-1-0-moves-to-quarter-final-228873&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEkYClkPriAhUXIIgKHeoSDQ0QFjAAegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2-USPP7zYM0xFWi4Z4R2b5">Copa America</a> on Friday.

Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half.&nbsp;

He scored another goal in the 59th minute of the game.

After Miyoshi's opener, Luis Suarez scored the equaliser on penalty for Uraguay in the 32nd minute.&nbsp;

The penalty was offered after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-brazil-have-three-goals-denied-by-var-in-draw-with-venezuela-228581&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjEkYClkPriAhUXIIgKHeoSDQ0QFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2KHwUK6D9I7k46RvHXPY9c">Video Assistant Referee (VAR)</a> review as Naomichi Ueda tried to block the ball under minimal contact on Edinson Cavani.

In the second half again, Miyoshi netted the ball to the goal in the 59th minute making their lead to 2-1.&nbsp;

Uruguay played with high morale as they defeated Ecuador 4-0 in their last game.&nbsp;

Jose Gimenez in the 66th minute of the match scored a goal to make it 2-2.

Although Uruguay attempted more chances to convert a goal but ended up with equal goals.&nbsp;

It was an entertaining game from both the teams.

Japan, in their last match, faced the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Chile while Uruguay won the last encounter 4-0 against Ecuador.

Japan will next face Ecuador while Uruguay will play against Chile on June 25.

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing Copa America on Friday. Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half.

Japan played a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in their group C clash in the ongoing Copa America on Friday. Japan started the game at a high-tempo as Koji Miyoshi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute of the first half. He scored another goal in the 59th minute of the game. After Miyoshi's opener, Luis Suarez scored the equaliser on penalty for Uraguay in the 32nd minute. The penalty was offered after Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review as Naomichi Ueda tried to block the ball under minimal contact on Edinson Cavani. In the second half again, Miyoshi netted the ball to the goal in the 59th minute making their lead to 2-1. Uruguay played with high morale as they defeated Ecuador 4-0 in their last game. Jose Gimenez in the 66th minute of the match scored a goal to make it 2-2. Although Uruguay attempted more chances to convert a goal but ended up with equal goals. It was an entertaining game from both the teams. Japan, in their last match, faced the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Chile while Uruguay won the last encounter 4-0 against Ecuador. Japan will next face Ecuador while Uruguay will play against Chile on June 25.

Copa America: Koji Miyoshi shines, Japan plays 2-2 draw against Uruguay

Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani were on target as&nbsp;Uruguay&nbsp;thumped 10-man Ecuador 4-0 in their opening Group C match at the Copa America on Sunday.

Nicolas Lodeiro opened the scoring after just six minutes before Ecuador full-back Jose Quintero was dismissed for a flailing arm.

With a numerical advantage,&nbsp;Uruguay&nbsp;ran riot at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte as Cavani and Suarez netted before the break. The rout was completed 12 minutes from time with an Arturo Mina own goal.

"We had chances in the first half, we managed to take them and that gave us the tranquility to manage the game," said Cavani, who finally scored his first Copa America goal in his fourth participation.

"It was an important step."

It was the ideal beginning for&nbsp;Uruguay&nbsp;in a tough Group C alongside champions Chile and guests Japan, who meet on Monday in Sao Paulo.

"We're not as bad as that," lamented Ecuador's Colombian coach Hernan Dario Gomez.

"It was a match that got away from us, especially in the first half when it got away from us in every aspect."

Uruguay&nbsp;were off to a dream start.

Suarez crossed from the right and Lodeiro proved the coolest customer in the Mineirao stadium as he beat one defender with his chest control, flicked the ball over another and then hit a crisp, low volley into the bottom far corner.

"We knew they would be very tough opponents. The important thing was start the game with maximum concentration and we managed that," said Cavani.

Uruguay&nbsp;were rampant and had the ball in the net soon afterwards only for Cavani to be given offside in the build-up.

Ecuador brought a physicality to the contest that upset the Uruguayan players and Quintero was perhaps lucky to escape punishment when catching Diego Laxalt with an elbow in an aerial challenge.

But moments later, his arm made contact with Lodeiro's face when challenging for another header, this time drawing blood.

Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco -- whose bulging arm muscles put even Ecuador's strapping players to shame -- initially showed the full-back a yellow card but after consulting VAR he changed that to red.

That left Ecuador with a mountain to climb.

On 27 minutes, Alexander Dominguez made a brilliant low save to turn behind Cavani's half-volley from 15 yards.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Cavani was denied again when Dominguez stunningly tipped his clever back-flick onto the post one-handed.

But it was third time lucky on 33 minutes as Diego Godin headed the ball into the danger area and Cavani acrobatically rasped a bicycle kick from seven yards past a helpless Dominguez, his 47th international goal.

Patient&nbsp;Uruguay

Nahitan Nandez wasted a good chance, shooting straight at Dominguez but Suarez put the game to bed a minute before the break, stealing in at the back post to poke home a flick-on from Martin Caceres.

With the game all but over as a contest, the second half was a damp squib of an affair.

Uruguay&nbsp;had the ball in the net soon after the restart but Cavani was offside again.

Ecuador showed plenty of commitment, continuing to rough up&nbsp;Uruguay's more technical players, but never looked like they believed they would get anything out of the game.

Uruguay&nbsp;looked content to play a patient possession game without pushing for more goals.

Cavani did send Suarez scampering in on goal after a defensive mistake but Dominguez was quickly off his line to snatch the ball off the Barcelona forward's toes.

The fourth came in calamitous fashion as Gaston Pereiro tried to pick out Suarez from Cavani's cross even though he was only six yards from goal.

His header dropped to Ecuador center-half Mina, who inadvertently volleyed into his own goal.

"The important thing was that the team won and now we'll prepare for the next match," against Japan on Thursday, said Suarez, who notched his 57th goal for&nbsp;Uruguay.

Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani were on target as Uruguay thumped 10-man Ecuador 4-0 in their opening Group C match at the Copa America on Sunday. Nicolas Lodeiro opened the scoring after just six minutes before Ecuador full-back Jose Quintero was dismissed for a flailing arm.

Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani were on target as Uruguay thumped 10-man Ecuador 4-0 in their opening Group C match at the Copa America on Sunday. Nicolas Lodeiro opened the scoring after just six minutes before Ecuador full-back Jose Quintero was dismissed for a flailing arm. With a numerical advantage, Uruguay ran riot at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte as Cavani and Suarez netted before the break. The rout was completed 12 minutes from time with an Arturo Mina own goal. "We had chances in the first half, we managed to take them and that gave us the tranquility to manage the game," said Cavani, who finally scored his first Copa America goal in his fourth participation. "It was an important step." It was the ideal beginning for Uruguay in a tough Group C alongside champions Chile and guests Japan, who meet on Monday in Sao Paulo. "We're not as bad as that," lamented Ecuador's Colombian coach Hernan Dario Gomez. "It was a match that got away from us, especially in the first half when it got away from us in every aspect." Uruguay were off to a dream start. Suarez crossed from the right and Lodeiro proved the coolest customer in the Mineirao stadium as he beat one defender with his chest control, flicked the ball over another and then hit a crisp, low volley into the bottom far corner. "We knew they would be very tough opponents. The important thing was start the game with maximum concentration and we managed that," said Cavani. Uruguay were rampant and had the ball in the net soon afterwards only for Cavani to be given offside in the build-up. Ecuador brought a physicality to the contest that upset the Uruguayan players and Quintero was perhaps lucky to escape punishment when catching Diego Laxalt with an elbow in an aerial challenge. But moments later, his arm made contact with Lodeiro's face when challenging for another header, this time drawing blood. Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco -- whose bulging arm muscles put even Ecuador's strapping players to shame -- initially showed the full-back a yellow card but after consulting VAR he changed that to red. That left Ecuador with a mountain to climb. On 27 minutes, Alexander Dominguez made a brilliant low save to turn behind Cavani's half-volley from 15 yards. Paris Saint-Germain forward Cavani was denied again when Dominguez stunningly tipped his clever back-flick onto the post one-handed. But it was third time lucky on 33 minutes as Diego Godin headed the ball into the danger area and Cavani acrobatically rasped a bicycle kick from seven yards past a helpless Dominguez, his 47th international goal. Patient Uruguay Nahitan Nandez wasted a good chance, shooting straight at Dominguez but Suarez put the game to bed a minute before the break, stealing in at the back post to poke home a flick-on from Martin Caceres. With the game all but over as a contest, the second half was a damp squib of an affair. Uruguay had the ball in the net soon after the restart but Cavani was offside again. Ecuador showed plenty of commitment, continuing to rough up Uruguay's more technical players, but never looked like they believed they would get anything out of the game. Uruguay looked content to play a patient possession game without pushing for more goals. Cavani did send Suarez scampering in on goal after a defensive mistake but Dominguez was quickly off his line to snatch the ball off the Barcelona forward's toes. The fourth came in calamitous fashion as Gaston Pereiro tried to pick out Suarez from Cavani's cross even though he was only six yards from goal. His header dropped to Ecuador center-half Mina, who inadvertently volleyed into his own goal. "The important thing was that the team won and now we'll prepare for the next match," against Japan on Thursday, said Suarez, who notched his 57th goal for Uruguay.

Copa America: Luis Suarez, Edinson Cavani score as Uruguay crush 10-man Ecuador

Preview of the 12 teams taking part in 2019 Copa America

Luis Suarez was named in Uruguay's final squad of 23 players for Copa America on Friday despite continuing to recover from a knee injury.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani has also been named in the final squad.

Suarez missed his club Barcelona's match against Valencia in the last weekend's Copa del Rey final after having an operation on his meniscus.

Both Cavani and Suarez were in prolific form during the current season.

Suarez scored 21 goals in La Liga this season and he was second only to his team-mate Lionel Messi and level with Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema in the league scoring charts.

Cavani scored 18 goals in Ligue 1, finishing third in the league scoring charts, only behind team-mate Kylian Mbappe and Lille's Nicolas Pepe.

The experienced defender Diego Godin has also been named in the squad. The player confirmed his exit from Athletico Madrid earlier this year.

Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira, one of the revelations of the Premier League season, Inter's Matias Vecino and Juventus duo Martin Caceras and Rodrigo Bentancur are among the other notable players included.

Uruguay's 23-member squad for Copa America: Martin Campana, Fernando Muslera, Martin Silva, Martin Caceres, Sebastian Coates, Jose Gimenez, Diego Godin, Marcelo Saracchi, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Rodrigo Bentancur, Giovanni Gonzalez, Diego Laxalt, Nicolas Lodeiro, Nahitan Nandez, Gaston Pereiro, Lucas Torreira, Federico Valverde, Matias Vecino, Edinson Cavani, Maxi Gomez, Jonathan Rodriguez, Cristhian Stuani, Luis Suarez.

Uruguay will be looking to win their first Copa crown since 2011.&nbsp;

The team faces Panama in a friendly before opening their group campaign against Ecuador on June 16.&nbsp;

Luis Suarez was named in Uruguay's final squad of 23 players for Copa America on Friday despite continuing to recover from a knee injury. Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani has also been named in the final squad.

Luis Suarez was named in Uruguay's final squad of 23 players for Copa America on Friday despite continuing to recover from a knee injury. Paris Saint-Germain striker Edinson Cavani has also been named in the final squad. Suarez missed his club Barcelona's match against Valencia in the last weekend's Copa del Rey final after having an operation on his meniscus. Both Cavani and Suarez were in prolific form during the current season. Suarez scored 21 goals in La Liga this season and he was second only to his team-mate Lionel Messi and level with Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema in the league scoring charts. Cavani scored 18 goals in Ligue 1, finishing third in the league scoring charts, only behind team-mate Kylian Mbappe and Lille's Nicolas Pepe. The experienced defender Diego Godin has also been named in the squad. The player confirmed his exit from Athletico Madrid earlier this year. Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira, one of the revelations of the Premier League season, Inter's Matias Vecino and Juventus duo Martin Caceras and Rodrigo Bentancur are among the other notable players included. Uruguay's 23-member squad for Copa America: Martin Campana, Fernando Muslera, Martin Silva, Martin Caceres, Sebastian Coates, Jose Gimenez, Diego Godin, Marcelo Saracchi, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Rodrigo Bentancur, Giovanni Gonzalez, Diego Laxalt, Nicolas Lodeiro, Nahitan Nandez, Gaston Pereiro, Lucas Torreira, Federico Valverde, Matias Vecino, Edinson Cavani, Maxi Gomez, Jonathan Rodriguez, Cristhian Stuani, Luis Suarez. Uruguay will be looking to win their first Copa crown since 2011. The team faces Panama in a friendly before opening their group campaign against Ecuador on June 16.

Luis Suarez named in Uruguay's squad for Copa America despite injury

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-broke-down-in-dressing-room-after-barcelonas-humiliating-defeat-to-liverpool-217028&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv05yX3JDiAhVEQY8KHZnbDZkQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Gs4Kq4MMszx6hNHtOumvw">Barcelona </a>striker <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-looked-like-schoolboys-says-suarez-after-barcelona-crumble-against-liverpool-216911&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd_czP25DiAhXR6nMBHZi4B4AQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw37o6UojrNQE_hWqvv7AdEp">Luis Suarez</a> is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday.

The surgery brings Suarez's season to a premature end and the Uruguayan will miss their final two La Liga games and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia later this month.

"<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-luis-suarez-writes-himself-into-barca-history-philippe-coutinho-looks-dispensable-214823&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd_czP25DiAhXR6nMBHZi4B4AQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3KvUVyGtJ65QrxZN_SQ48T">Luis Suarez</a> has a medial meniscus injury in his right knee and has been operated on by Dr (Ramon) Cugat, undergoing arthroscopic surgery under the supervision of the club's medical staff," a club statement read.

"The Uruguayan will be out for around four to six weeks. The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/over-reliance-on-messi-or-over-confidence-what-went-wrong-for-barcelona-against-liverpool-217025&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjv05yX3JDiAhVEQY8KHZnbDZkQFjAAegQIDBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bzDfhlZbCWR2hRZPaH69M">FC Barcelona </a>striker will miss the three remaining fixtures this season, the league games against Getafe and Eibar and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia on 25 May in Seville", the statement read.

It remains to be seen if he will be fit for Uruguay's Copa America campaign beginning with a June 16 match against Ecuador.

Suarez has scored 25 goals in 49 matches in all competitions this season, helping Barca wrap up their 26th La Liga title last month.

But his poor form in the Champions League, where he scored only one goal in 10 appearances, cost Barca who were knocked out of by his former club Liverpool, who overcame a 3-0 semi-final first-leg deficit to progress 4-3 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez is set to be sidelined for four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery to treat a medial meniscus injury, the club said on Friday. The surgery brings Suarez's season to a premature end and the Uruguayan will miss their final two La Liga games and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia later this month. "Luis Suarez has a medial meniscus injury in his right knee and has been operated on by Dr (Ramon) Cugat, undergoing arthroscopic surgery under the supervision of the club's medical staff," a club statement read. "The Uruguayan will be out for around four to six weeks. The FC Barcelona striker will miss the three remaining fixtures this season, the league games against Getafe and Eibar and the Copa del Rey final against Valencia on 25 May in Seville", the statement read. It remains to be seen if he will be fit for Uruguay's Copa America campaign beginning with a June 16 match against Ecuador. Suarez has scored 25 goals in 49 matches in all competitions this season, helping Barca wrap up their 26th La Liga title last month. But his poor form in the Champions League, where he scored only one goal in 10 appearances, cost Barca who were knocked out of by his former club Liverpool, who overcame a 3-0 semi-final first-leg deficit to progress 4-3 on aggregate on Tuesday.

Barcelona striker Luis Suarez sidelined for up to six weeks after knee injury

Over-reliance on Messi or over-confidence: What went wrong for Barcelona against Liverpool

Barcelona`s star footballer Luis Suarez has said that <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohamed-salah-to-miss-champions-league-second-leg-against-barcelona-216417&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj3zMXr3IjiAhXR6nMBHZQWCvwQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0LVkjNQF3aPIkDA1XldRk4">absence of Mohamed Salah in the Champions League semi-final second-leg</a> will be a big miss for Liverpool.

"Salah is a very important player, has been in the top three in the world the last couple of years," goal.com quoted Suarez as saying on Tuesday.

"It`s a big miss for them, but they have (Xherdan)&nbsp;Shaqiri, (Daniel)&nbsp;Sturridge, (Divock)&nbsp;Origi who are quality players and we have to be aware and careful," he added.

On Monday, Liverpool FC in an official statement said that the player won`t be taking part in the semi-final clash due to a concussion.

Both Robert Firmino and Mohamed Salah have been ruled out, resulting in a huge blow to Jurgen Klopp`s Liverpool.

Firmino was earlier ruled out of the clash after suffering a muscle injury.

Barcelona are themselves suffering from injury problems as Ousmane Dembele suffered a hamstring injury and this setback was even lamented by team`s coach Ernesto Valverde.

"Nobody wants injuries, it would be great if they can make a quick recovery and it`s a shame they can`t play on Tuesday," Suarez said.

"We`ll miss Dembele as he is a player who could have lapped up the spaces left by Liverpool at the back," he added.

Liverpool suffered a 3-0 defeat by Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final first-leg and the Reds have to a mountain to climb if they want to reach the finals of the tournament.

Liverpool and Barcelona take on each other in the Champions League semi-final second leg on May 7.

Barcelona`s star footballer Luis Suarez has said that absence of Mohamed Salah in the Champions League semi-final second-leg will be a big miss for Liverpool. "Salah is a very important player, has been in the top three in the world the last couple of years," goal.

Barcelona`s star footballer Luis Suarez has said that absence of Mohamed Salah in the Champions League semi-final second-leg will be a big miss for Liverpool. "Salah is a very important player, has been in the top three in the world the last couple of years," goal.com quoted Suarez as saying on Tuesday. "It`s a big miss for them, but they have (Xherdan) Shaqiri, (Daniel) Sturridge, (Divock) Origi who are quality players and we have to be aware and careful," he added. On Monday, Liverpool FC in an official statement said that the player won`t be taking part in the semi-final clash due to a concussion. Both Robert Firmino and Mohamed Salah have been ruled out, resulting in a huge blow to Jurgen Klopp`s Liverpool. Firmino was earlier ruled out of the clash after suffering a muscle injury. Barcelona are themselves suffering from injury problems as Ousmane Dembele suffered a hamstring injury and this setback was even lamented by team`s coach Ernesto Valverde. "Nobody wants injuries, it would be great if they can make a quick recovery and it`s a shame they can`t play on Tuesday," Suarez said. "We`ll miss Dembele as he is a player who could have lapped up the spaces left by Liverpool at the back," he added. Liverpool suffered a 3-0 defeat by Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final first-leg and the Reds have to a mountain to climb if they want to reach the finals of the tournament. Liverpool and Barcelona take on each other in the Champions League semi-final second leg on May 7.

Mo Salah's absence big miss for Liverpool, says Barcelona striker Luis Suarez

Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho traded places as Liverpool's talismanic figure before earning dream moves to Barcelona, but while the Uruguayan has become one of the Catalan side's greatest strikers ever, the Brazilian is seen as an expensive flop.

The South American duo will be ready to face Liverpool together for the first time in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg at the Nou Camp, aiming to help Barca reach the final for the first time in four years.

Suarez was named PFA player of the year in the 2013/14 season for leading Liverpool's charge to the brink of the Premier League title, before they were pipped at the post by Manchester City.

Liverpool took years to recover from him leaving for Barca in 2014 for a club record 75 million pounds, finishing sixth and eighth respectively in their next two seasons until Juergen Klopp transformed their fortunes.

"When I was there, it was very different," Suarez said in a recent interview with The Guardian.

"We were on the verge of the Premier League with a squad nowhere near as good. They didn't spend as much as they're doing now. Any player would like to go to Liverpool now. It was different then."

Coutinho eventually took up the baton from Suarez as Liverpool's most influential player and helped spark the revival, but they have had no such struggles since the Brazilian departed in January 2018 for an eye-watering 142 million pounds.

They invested that money on Virgil Van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Naby Keita, creating a more complete squad that has earned a staggering 91 points in another race to the wire with City.

Coutinho and Suarez have also had contrasting careers in Catalonia: The Brazilian has become accustomed to being booed by supporters in recent months for failing to live up to his price tag, while Suarez has etched his name into the club's history.

It is easy to forget that Suarez was a maligned figure when he joined Barca after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup, and that the club he had just joined were in transition, showing signs of decline.

INSATIABLE GOALSCORER

Suarez, however, proved to be the link the Catalans were missing, an insatiable goalscorer who could also free space for his team mates with his physical presence and work rate.

The 32-year-old is the second top goalscorer in La Liga this season with 21 strikes, only trailing his inseparable friend Lionel Messi, who has 34.

Last week, Suarez became Barca's all-time third top scorer in the league with 131 goals, while on Saturday he collected a fourth league title out of five, his 13th medal with Barca.

Things seemed much easier for Coutinho when he joined a fully formed, all-conquering side and had a role waiting for him in the team as Andres Iniesta prepared to depart.

Yet he has frequently looked out of place, struggling when played in midfield or on the left wing, notching only 10 goals and five assists in all competitions and missing his share of gaping scoring chances, looking like a player shorn of confidence and ever more anxious.

With France forward Ousmane Dembele back at full fitness, Coutinho is unlikely to start on Wednesday against Liverpool, meaning he may be an onlooker in a game he would have been expected to star in a year ago.

Suarez, meanwhile, will take centre stage in the blockbuster duel, as invaluable to Barca as he was to his former club.

Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho traded places as Liverpool's talismanic figure before earning dream moves to Barcelona, but while the Uruguayan has become one of the Catalan side's greatest strikers ever, the Brazilian is seen as an expensive flop.

Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho traded places as Liverpool's talismanic figure before earning dream moves to Barcelona, but while the Uruguayan has become one of the Catalan side's greatest strikers ever, the Brazilian is seen as an expensive flop. The South American duo will be ready to face Liverpool together for the first time in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg at the Nou Camp, aiming to help Barca reach the final for the first time in four years. Suarez was named PFA player of the year in the 2013/14 season for leading Liverpool's charge to the brink of the Premier League title, before they were pipped at the post by Manchester City. Liverpool took years to recover from him leaving for Barca in 2014 for a club record 75 million pounds, finishing sixth and eighth respectively in their next two seasons until Juergen Klopp transformed their fortunes. "When I was there, it was very different," Suarez said in a recent interview with The Guardian. "We were on the verge of the Premier League with a squad nowhere near as good. They didn't spend as much as they're doing now. Any player would like to go to Liverpool now. It was different then." Coutinho eventually took up the baton from Suarez as Liverpool's most influential player and helped spark the revival, but they have had no such struggles since the Brazilian departed in January 2018 for an eye-watering 142 million pounds. They invested that money on Virgil Van Dijk, Alisson Becker and Naby Keita, creating a more complete squad that has earned a staggering 91 points in another race to the wire with City. Coutinho and Suarez have also had contrasting careers in Catalonia: The Brazilian has become accustomed to being booed by supporters in recent months for failing to live up to his price tag, while Suarez has etched his name into the club's history. It is easy to forget that Suarez was a maligned figure when he joined Barca after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup, and that the club he had just joined were in transition, showing signs of decline. INSATIABLE GOALSCORER Suarez, however, proved to be the link the Catalans were missing, an insatiable goalscorer who could also free space for his team mates with his physical presence and work rate. The 32-year-old is the second top goalscorer in La Liga this season with 21 strikes, only trailing his inseparable friend Lionel Messi, who has 34. Last week, Suarez became Barca's all-time third top scorer in the league with 131 goals, while on Saturday he collected a fourth league title out of five, his 13th medal with Barca. Things seemed much easier for Coutinho when he joined a fully formed, all-conquering side and had a role waiting for him in the team as Andres Iniesta prepared to depart. Yet he has frequently looked out of place, struggling when played in midfield or on the left wing, notching only 10 goals and five assists in all competitions and missing his share of gaping scoring chances, looking like a player shorn of confidence and ever more anxious. With France forward Ousmane Dembele back at full fitness, Coutinho is unlikely to start on Wednesday against Liverpool, meaning he may be an onlooker in a game he would have been expected to star in a year ago. Suarez, meanwhile, will take centre stage in the blockbuster duel, as invaluable to Barca as he was to his former club.

As Luis Suarez writes himself into Barca history, Philippe Coutinho looks dispensable

Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 in Saturday's top-of-the-table showdown at the Nou Camp as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an 11-point lead at the top of the table.

Atletico began brightly but their gameplan went out of the window when Diego Costa was shown a straight red card in the 28th minute for a verbal tirade at referee Jesus Gil Manzano.

Atletico produced a gutsy second-half display, expertly shackling Barca, but the Catalans finally found a way past the visitors' outstanding goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a superb curling shot from Suarez in the 85th minute.

Moments later Messi sealed victory and quite probably the league title with an irresistibly cool finish into the net and Barca's fans jubilantly chanted "champions", crowing at their surely unassailable lead at the top with seven games remaining.

Atletico midfielder Koke conceded that Barca had wrapped up the title but questioned the decision to send Costa off.

"Barca are practically champions. It was a very strange game, we were doing so well until the red card but all the small details went their way," Koke told reporters.

"Whenever we come here something strange happens, we've had a lot of red cards against Barca and not all of them have been fair. When you have 10 men against one of the best teams in the world it's normal that it's a struggle."

Suarez highlighted his side's character for winning such a difficult game so soon after their gruelling 4-4 draw against Villarreal in midweek.

"This was another game which shows just how hard it is to win the league so we deserve lot more credit for what we're achieving," Suarez said.

"We've now got a very big advantage over Atletico. There are still some games left but we took two steps towards winning the league today."

Mad Moment

Atletico realistically needed to win at the Nou Camp for the first time since 2006 to stay in the title race and they played with ambition and intelligence in the opening stages, keeping the ball for long periods and depriving Barca of space.

But they were rocked by Costa's moment of madness which killed their early momentum and left them with little choice but to defend for the remaining hour of the game.

Striker Costa reacted angrily to not being awarded a foul after being tackled by Jordi Alba and gave a long verbal response to the referee, who to his disbelief pulled out a red card.

Costa had to be shepherded off the pitch by Barca's Gerard Pique as he struggled to control his temper while his team mates Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez earned bookings for venting their anger over the decision.

Atletico coped superbly with the setback and numerical disadvantage, controlling the space for the majority of the game.

Messi still carved his way through the middle of the pitch on two occasions, creating openings for Suarez and himself but both South American forwards were thwarted by the titanic presence of Oblak.

Atletico naturally had limited opportunities down the other end but were not far from finding a goal when Antoine Griezmann picked out Rodrigo from a free kick but the midfielder headed over the bar when Gimenez was stood behind him, in a better position.

Diego Simeone's side could not last the distance, however, and as their legs inevitably tired, Barca's attacking quality made the difference.

"We knew what the game would be like, Atletico are very organised and after the red card we tried to attack more but it wasn't easy," Suarez said.

"But we kept going, we showed a great attitude and kept testing their goalkeeper who was the hero of the game."

Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 in Saturday's top-of-the-table showdown at the Nou Camp as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an 11-point lead at the top of the table.

Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 in Saturday's top-of-the-table showdown at the Nou Camp as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an 11-point lead at the top of the table. Atletico began brightly but their gameplan went out of the window when Diego Costa was shown a straight red card in the 28th minute for a verbal tirade at referee Jesus Gil Manzano. Atletico produced a gutsy second-half display, expertly shackling Barca, but the Catalans finally found a way past the visitors' outstanding goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a superb curling shot from Suarez in the 85th minute. Moments later Messi sealed victory and quite probably the league title with an irresistibly cool finish into the net and Barca's fans jubilantly chanted "champions", crowing at their surely unassailable lead at the top with seven games remaining. Atletico midfielder Koke conceded that Barca had wrapped up the title but questioned the decision to send Costa off. "Barca are practically champions. It was a very strange game, we were doing so well until the red card but all the small details went their way," Koke told reporters. "Whenever we come here something strange happens, we've had a lot of red cards against Barca and not all of them have been fair. When you have 10 men against one of the best teams in the world it's normal that it's a struggle." Suarez highlighted his side's character for winning such a difficult game so soon after their gruelling 4-4 draw against Villarreal in midweek. "This was another game which shows just how hard it is to win the league so we deserve lot more credit for what we're achieving," Suarez said. "We've now got a very big advantage over Atletico. There are still some games left but we took two steps towards winning the league today." Mad Moment Atletico realistically needed to win at the Nou Camp for the first time since 2006 to stay in the title race and they played with ambition and intelligence in the opening stages, keeping the ball for long periods and depriving Barca of space. But they were rocked by Costa's moment of madness which killed their early momentum and left them with little choice but to defend for the remaining hour of the game. Striker Costa reacted angrily to not being awarded a foul after being tackled by Jordi Alba and gave a long verbal response to the referee, who to his disbelief pulled out a red card. Costa had to be shepherded off the pitch by Barca's Gerard Pique as he struggled to control his temper while his team mates Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez earned bookings for venting their anger over the decision. Atletico coped superbly with the setback and numerical disadvantage, controlling the space for the majority of the game. Messi still carved his way through the middle of the pitch on two occasions, creating openings for Suarez and himself but both South American forwards were thwarted by the titanic presence of Oblak. Atletico naturally had limited opportunities down the other end but were not far from finding a goal when Antoine Griezmann picked out Rodrigo from a free kick but the midfielder headed over the bar when Gimenez was stood behind him, in a better position. Diego Simeone's side could not last the distance, however, and as their legs inevitably tired, Barca's attacking quality made the difference. "We knew what the game would be like, Atletico are very organised and after the red card we tried to attack more but it wasn't easy," Suarez said. "But we kept going, we showed a great attitude and kept testing their goalkeeper who was the hero of the game."

Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi late-show sinks 10-man Atletico Madrid

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