Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again.

Barcelona, Dortmund and Inter, with nine European Cups between them, were drawn together in Group F along with the Czech&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Slavia Prague.

Beaten by Liverpool in the semi-finals last season, Lionel Messi and Barcelona remain favourites to advance as they seek a first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;crown since 2015.

Dortmund won the trophy in 1997 and lost in the final in 2013. Now coached by Antonio Conte, Inter beat Barcelona in the semi-finals en route to winning the most recent of their three titles in 2010.

"That really is a very tough group, which makes it an even bigger challenge for us," said the Dortmund coach, Lucien Favre. His team host Barca in the opening round of matches on Tuesday, September 17.

Liverpool advanced from their group at the expense of Napoli last season on the way to lifting their sixth European Cup in Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti's side now have a chance to gain revenge.

Beaten in Naples a year ago, Liverpool will head back to the San Paolo in their first match on September 17.

Both clubs will be fancied to progress from Group E, which is completed by Austrian&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Salzburg and Genk, the Belgian title-holders.

"Napoli again! I don't know how often I've now played against Napoli, but they're obviously a very experienced side," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who faced the Italians with Dortmund in the 2013-14 group stage.

Liverpool are hoping to return to this year's final which will be played in Istanbul, where they won their fifth title back in 2005.

After losing in last season's final, Tottenham Hotspur can look forward to a meeting with German&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Bayern Munich in Group B.

Tottenham entertain Bayern in London in their second group game on October 1, which will be the first meeting of the clubs since the 1983-84 UEFA Cup. They will then go to Munich in December.

The teams will also meet Greek&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Olympiakos and Red Star Belgrade of Serbia, the 1991 European Cup winners, in Group B.

After winning the Europa&nbsp;League, Chelsea are back in the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;and can look forward to taking on last season's semi-finalists Ajax as well as former runners-up Valencia and Lille in Group H. Frank Lampard's team kick off at home to Valencia.

Ronaldo 'always confident'

Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Manchester City were handed the kindest draw of all four English representatives, with Pep Guardiola's men coming up against Italian debutants Atalanta along with Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb in Group C.

City beat Shakhtar 3-0 in Ukraine in last season's group stage before a 6-0 victory in the return. The teams meet in Kharkiv in their first game on September 18.

"We have to keep being strong in our country and if we do that, we know we will have a chance in this competition," said Txiki Begiristain, the director of football at City, who have lost in the quarter-finals in the last two seasons.

There will be glamour ties between familiar opponents elsewhere, with Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid renewing acquaintances with Paris Saint-Germain in Group A, the sides meeting in their opening game at the Parc des Princes.

Real eliminated the French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;in the last 16 on the way to winning the trophy two seasons ago.

Turkish&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Galatasaray and Club Brugge of Belgium complete Group A.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus will come up against Atletico Madrid again after beating the Spanish side in the last 16 last season. They will begin their campaign by clashing in Madrid and will also face Bayer Leverkusen and Lokomotiv Moscow in Group D.

"I don't know what's going to happen this year but when the year starts I'm always confident. This year I'm not changing my mind," Ronaldo, whose side lost to Ajax in the quarter-finals last season, told BT Sport.

Perhaps the most balanced section sees Zenit Saint Petersburg, Benfica, Lyon and RB Leipzig clash in Group G.

Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again.

Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again. Barcelona, Dortmund and Inter, with nine European Cups between them, were drawn together in Group F along with the Czech champions Slavia Prague. Beaten by Liverpool in the semi-finals last season, Lionel Messi and Barcelona remain favourites to advance as they seek a first Champions League crown since 2015. Dortmund won the trophy in 1997 and lost in the final in 2013. Now coached by Antonio Conte, Inter beat Barcelona in the semi-finals en route to winning the most recent of their three titles in 2010. "That really is a very tough group, which makes it an even bigger challenge for us," said the Dortmund coach, Lucien Favre. His team host Barca in the opening round of matches on Tuesday, September 17. Liverpool advanced from their group at the expense of Napoli last season on the way to lifting their sixth European Cup in Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti's side now have a chance to gain revenge. Beaten in Naples a year ago, Liverpool will head back to the San Paolo in their first match on September 17. Both clubs will be fancied to progress from Group E, which is completed by Austrian champions Salzburg and Genk, the Belgian title-holders. "Napoli again! I don't know how often I've now played against Napoli, but they're obviously a very experienced side," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who faced the Italians with Dortmund in the 2013-14 group stage. Liverpool are hoping to return to this year's final which will be played in Istanbul, where they won their fifth title back in 2005. After losing in last season's final, Tottenham Hotspur can look forward to a meeting with German champions Bayern Munich in Group B. Tottenham entertain Bayern in London in their second group game on October 1, which will be the first meeting of the clubs since the 1983-84 UEFA Cup. They will then go to Munich in December. The teams will also meet Greek champions Olympiakos and Red Star Belgrade of Serbia, the 1991 European Cup winners, in Group B. After winning the Europa League, Chelsea are back in the Champions League and can look forward to taking on last season's semi-finalists Ajax as well as former runners-up Valencia and Lille in Group H. Frank Lampard's team kick off at home to Valencia. Ronaldo 'always confident' Premier League champions Manchester City were handed the kindest draw of all four English representatives, with Pep Guardiola's men coming up against Italian debutants Atalanta along with Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb in Group C. City beat Shakhtar 3-0 in Ukraine in last season's group stage before a 6-0 victory in the return. The teams meet in Kharkiv in their first game on September 18. "We have to keep being strong in our country and if we do that, we know we will have a chance in this competition," said Txiki Begiristain, the director of football at City, who have lost in the quarter-finals in the last two seasons. There will be glamour ties between familiar opponents elsewhere, with Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid renewing acquaintances with Paris Saint-Germain in Group A, the sides meeting in their opening game at the Parc des Princes. Real eliminated the French champions in the last 16 on the way to winning the trophy two seasons ago. Turkish champions Galatasaray and Club Brugge of Belgium complete Group A. Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus will come up against Atletico Madrid again after beating the Spanish side in the last 16 last season. They will begin their campaign by clashing in Madrid and will also face Bayer Leverkusen and Lokomotiv Moscow in Group D. "I don't know what's going to happen this year but when the year starts I'm always confident. This year I'm not changing my mind," Ronaldo, whose side lost to Ajax in the quarter-finals last season, told BT Sport. Perhaps the most balanced section sees Zenit Saint Petersburg, Benfica, Lyon and RB Leipzig clash in Group G.

Barcelona handed tough Champions League draw as Liverpool face Napoli again

Five players to watch in Serie A

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million).

The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018.

"Welcome Hirving," Napoli club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis wrote on Twitter without revealing details of the transfer.

Lozano, nicknamed 'Chucky', joined PSV from Pachuca in 2017 for €12.5 million and scored 45 goals in 83 games over two seasons.&nbsp;

"I leave PSV as a happy man," Lozano told the Dutch club's website.

"Winning the Dutch title was one of the highlights in my career so far and I also achieved my dream of playing UEFA Champions League."

Lozano has reportedly agreed a five-year deal worth €42 million which will earn him up to €4.5 million a year.

The contract includes a €130 million buy-out clause, Sky Sports Italia reported.

Lozano will not play in Napoli's Serie A opener Saturday at Fiorentina, but is expected to make his debut against champions Juventus in Turin on August 31.

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million). The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018.

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million). The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018. "Welcome Hirving," Napoli club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis wrote on Twitter without revealing details of the transfer. Lozano, nicknamed 'Chucky', joined PSV from Pachuca in 2017 for €12.5 million and scored 45 goals in 83 games over two seasons. "I leave PSV as a happy man," Lozano told the Dutch club's website. "Winning the Dutch title was one of the highlights in my career so far and I also achieved my dream of playing UEFA Champions League." Lozano has reportedly agreed a five-year deal worth €42 million which will earn him up to €4.5 million a year. The contract includes a €130 million buy-out clause, Sky Sports Italia reported. Lozano will not play in Napoli's Serie A opener Saturday at Fiorentina, but is expected to make his debut against champions Juventus in Turin on August 31.

Mexican forward Hirving Lozano completes Napoli move

Barcelona's £107-million star signing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luis-suarezs-brace-antoine-griezmann-goal-power-barca-over-napoli-242151">Antoine Griezmann</a> netted his first goal for the team in the final La Liga season tuneup on Saturday against Napoli.&nbsp;

Griezmann scored 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. &nbsp;

Having opened his account for the Catalans, Griezmann looked pleased in a video shared by the Barca's Twitter handle after the match. He said, "I am very happy to score my first goal with this shirt."&nbsp;

"I hope it will be the first of many," added the French forward.&nbsp;

A crowd of 60,043 at 110,000-seat Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was treated to an exquisite passing display by Barcelona.&nbsp;

Suarez opened the scoring in the 48th minute and netted twice. Griezmann and the other French striker Ousmane Dembele scored one goal each to sink Napoli 4-0.&nbsp;

Earlier, Barcelona coach had said that Griezmann will have no problems linking up with strike partners Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.&nbsp;"It's true that some players who are a good fit in together easier," Valverde had told media.

Watch Griezmann's first&nbsp;goal for Barcelona:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Antoine Griezmann scores his first goal for Barcelona 😍🤩 🔵🔴<a href="https://t.co/0VsUKZiT2B">pic.twitter.com/0VsUKZiT2B</a>
— .♛. #BBNaija (@theCyberNewt) <a href="https://twitter.com/theCyberNewt/status/1160321376814862336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Watch&nbsp;Griezmann's reaction:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Play for the crest on the front, so they'll remember the name on the back 💙❤ <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a> <a href="https://t.co/U5KSNC2uCc">pic.twitter.com/U5KSNC2uCc</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1160471334759075841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

La Liga champions will start the title defence against Atletico Bilbao on August 17.&nbsp;

Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann netted his first goal for the team in the final La Liga season tuneup on Saturday against Napoli. Griezmann scored in the 56th minute after an impressive run by defender Jordi Alba.

Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann netted his first goal for the team in the final La Liga season tuneup on Saturday against Napoli. Griezmann scored 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. Having opened his account for the Catalans, Griezmann looked pleased in a video shared by the Barca's Twitter handle after the match. He said, "I am very happy to score my first goal with this shirt." "I hope it will be the first of many," added the French forward. A crowd of 60,043 at 110,000-seat Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was treated to an exquisite passing display by Barcelona. Suarez opened the scoring in the 48th minute and netted twice. Griezmann and the other French striker Ousmane Dembele scored one goal each to sink Napoli 4-0. Earlier, Barcelona coach had said that Griezmann will have no problems linking up with strike partners Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. "It's true that some players who are a good fit in together easier," Valverde had told media. Watch Griezmann's first goal for Barcelona: Antoine Griezmann scores his first goal for Barcelona 😍🤩 🔵🔴pic.twitter.com/0VsUKZiT2B — .♛. #BBNaija (@theCyberNewt) August 10, 2019 × Watch Griezmann's reaction: Play for the crest on the front, so they'll remember the name on the back 💙❤ @AntoGriezmann pic.twitter.com/U5KSNC2uCc — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 11, 2019 × La Liga champions will start the title defence against Atletico Bilbao on August 17.

Watch: Antoine Griezmann's reaction after scoring his first goal for Barcelona

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

A magnificent Alexandre Lacazette free kick sent Arsenal into the Europa League semi-finals with a comfortable 1-0 win away to a toothless Napoli on Thursday, ending Serie A's interest in European competition this season.

The Frenchman struck in the 36th minute to earn Arsenal a tie against Valencia, just as Napoli, trailing 2-0 from the first leg, were threatening to take control of the game.

Carlo Ancelotti's team lost their way after that and, although the hosts had 67 per cent of possession, Arsenal were able to sit out the second half to reach the semi-finals for the second season in a row with a 3-0 aggregate win.

"We came here with ambition, we wanted to win, to score some goals. We did it, and kept a clean sheet as well, which is important for the confidence," said Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny.

Ancelotti said that "the game lasted 30 minutes."

"We had two chances to score and we didn't succeed," he added. "We have not been as lucid in the last two months, we are more predictable and because of that, we have difficulty with our finishing."

In a lively opening half hour, Napoli threatened to make a breakthrough as Jose Callejon's effort was saved by Petr Cech's legs and Arkadiusz Milik had a goal chalked off for offside.

The Pole should have put Napoli ahead minutes later when compatriot Piotr Zielinski's cross found him unmarked in the penalty area but he headed wide.

Arsenal also lost Aaron Ramsey to an apparent hamstring problem but, just as it seemed things were going against them, they went ahead as Lacazette curled his free-kick around a poorly organised wall from 25 metres.

Arsenal should have wrapped up the game four minutes into the second half but Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with only Alex Meret to beat, placed his shot too near the goalkeeper who was able to save.

The second half petered out after that as Arsenal sat back and Napoli enjoyed most of the possession but did little with it.

Lorenzo Insigne shot weakly at Cech after getting clear of the Arsenal defence and was immediately substituted, a decision which infuriated the forward who watched the rest of the match on the touchline with his arms folded.

Fabian Ruiz summed up their evening by firing their last chance wildly over the crossbar in stoppage time.

"Insigne was just disappointed with the way the match went, he had believed in our chances like everyone else" said Ancelotti. "His reaction was not linked to the substitution."

A magnificent Alexandre Lacazette free kick sent Arsenal into the Europa League semi-finals with a comfortable 1-0 win away to a toothless Napoli on Thursday, ending Serie A's interest in European competition this season.

A magnificent Alexandre Lacazette free kick sent Arsenal into the Europa League semi-finals with a comfortable 1-0 win away to a toothless Napoli on Thursday, ending Serie A's interest in European competition this season. The Frenchman struck in the 36th minute to earn Arsenal a tie against Valencia, just as Napoli, trailing 2-0 from the first leg, were threatening to take control of the game. Carlo Ancelotti's team lost their way after that and, although the hosts had 67 per cent of possession, Arsenal were able to sit out the second half to reach the semi-finals for the second season in a row with a 3-0 aggregate win. "We came here with ambition, we wanted to win, to score some goals. We did it, and kept a clean sheet as well, which is important for the confidence," said Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny. Ancelotti said that "the game lasted 30 minutes." "We had two chances to score and we didn't succeed," he added. "We have not been as lucid in the last two months, we are more predictable and because of that, we have difficulty with our finishing." In a lively opening half hour, Napoli threatened to make a breakthrough as Jose Callejon's effort was saved by Petr Cech's legs and Arkadiusz Milik had a goal chalked off for offside. The Pole should have put Napoli ahead minutes later when compatriot Piotr Zielinski's cross found him unmarked in the penalty area but he headed wide. Arsenal also lost Aaron Ramsey to an apparent hamstring problem but, just as it seemed things were going against them, they went ahead as Lacazette curled his free-kick around a poorly organised wall from 25 metres. Arsenal should have wrapped up the game four minutes into the second half but Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with only Alex Meret to beat, placed his shot too near the goalkeeper who was able to save. The second half petered out after that as Arsenal sat back and Napoli enjoyed most of the possession but did little with it. Lorenzo Insigne shot weakly at Cech after getting clear of the Arsenal defence and was immediately substituted, a decision which infuriated the forward who watched the rest of the match on the touchline with his arms folded. Fabian Ruiz summed up their evening by firing their last chance wildly over the crossbar in stoppage time. "Insigne was just disappointed with the way the match went, he had believed in our chances like everyone else" said Ancelotti. "His reaction was not linked to the substitution."

Europa League: Magnificent Lacazette free kick sends Arsenal into semis

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time.

Arsenal took the lead in the 14th minute through Ramsey, who finished off a sweeping move down the right by calmly slotting the ball past Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret.

They doubled the advantage 10 minutes later after a moment of individual brilliance from Lucas Torreira, who dashed through the Napoli midfield before spinning and switching the ball to his left foot and letting fly.

The Uruguayan's shot took a heavy deflection off Senegal defender Koulibaly and was registered as an own-goal.

"We can be happy with this result, but (Napoli) are going to be more competitive away. Our challenge - our success - is going to be if we can be competitive away," Arsenal manager Unai Emery told reporters, repeatedly describing the tie as "50:50".

The Gunners tried to increase their advantage as the first half wore on but they failed to capitalise despite several shots on goal from strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Napoli had Meret to thank for numerous saves.

Carlo Ancelotti's men poured forward at the start of the second half in search of an away goal, with striker Lorenzo Insigne's effort ruled offside and Koulibaly denied moments later when keeper Petr Cech tipped his header over the bar.

Arsenal chances&nbsp;​​​​​​​

The game quickly opened up and Ramsey, who will join Napoli's rivals and Serie A leaders Juventus in the close season, and Nacho Monreal created chances at the other end but were unable to outwit Meret again.

Napoli went closest to scoring when Insigne raced down the right and crossed to Piotr Zielinski, but the Pole's right-foot effort shot up over the bar.

"We had our chances and wasted them. We know we didn’t have a good game. Now we have to think about the return leg," Insigne told Sky Sports.

"The away goal would have been vital. We have to stay focused, learn from our mistakes and have more courage next week," he said.

The Italian side have now failed to beat English opponents away from their San Paolo stadium in nine attempts in European competition, and will need to find some scoring form at home if they are to progress in the competition.

"I think the second half gave us some idea how we can play the second game," Ancelotti told reporters, suggesting his side had more of the run of play as Arsenal's players tired, a number of them pulling up with cramp as the game neared the end.

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time.

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time. Arsenal took the lead in the 14th minute through Ramsey, who finished off a sweeping move down the right by calmly slotting the ball past Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret. They doubled the advantage 10 minutes later after a moment of individual brilliance from Lucas Torreira, who dashed through the Napoli midfield before spinning and switching the ball to his left foot and letting fly. The Uruguayan's shot took a heavy deflection off Senegal defender Koulibaly and was registered as an own-goal. "We can be happy with this result, but (Napoli) are going to be more competitive away. Our challenge - our success - is going to be if we can be competitive away," Arsenal manager Unai Emery told reporters, repeatedly describing the tie as "50:50". The Gunners tried to increase their advantage as the first half wore on but they failed to capitalise despite several shots on goal from strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Napoli had Meret to thank for numerous saves. Carlo Ancelotti's men poured forward at the start of the second half in search of an away goal, with striker Lorenzo Insigne's effort ruled offside and Koulibaly denied moments later when keeper Petr Cech tipped his header over the bar. Arsenal chances The game quickly opened up and Ramsey, who will join Napoli's rivals and Serie A leaders Juventus in the close season, and Nacho Monreal created chances at the other end but were unable to outwit Meret again. Napoli went closest to scoring when Insigne raced down the right and crossed to Piotr Zielinski, but the Pole's right-foot effort shot up over the bar. "We had our chances and wasted them. We know we didn’t have a good game. Now we have to think about the return leg," Insigne told Sky Sports. "The away goal would have been vital. We have to stay focused, learn from our mistakes and have more courage next week," he said. The Italian side have now failed to beat English opponents away from their San Paolo stadium in nine attempts in European competition, and will need to find some scoring form at home if they are to progress in the competition. "I think the second half gave us some idea how we can play the second game," Ancelotti told reporters, suggesting his side had more of the run of play as Arsenal's players tired, a number of them pulling up with cramp as the game neared the end.

Europa League: Arsenal take 2-0 advantage over Napoli

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season.&nbsp;

Second-placed Napoli's shock defeat at Empoli on Wednesday has left the Turin side a massive 18 points clear, meaning it is time to get the calculators out almost two months before the end of the season.

In one of the most lop-sided championships in history, Juventus will clinch the title if they beat AC Milan at home on Saturday and then Napoli lose at home on Sunday to Genoa, who ended Juve's hopes of an unbeaten league season three weeks ago.

That combination would leave Massimiliano Allegri's side 21 points clear with seven games each to play and a better head-to-head record over Napoli.

They would also remain on course to break their own Serie A record of 102 points set in 2013-14, the last season before Antonio Conte left and was replaced by current coach Allegri.

Helped by the signing of five times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus have been utterly dominant this season, winning 26 of their 30 matches, drawing three and losing one.

They have the best attack and defence with 62 goals for and 19 conceded although they have been ruthless rather than sparkling.

Twelve of their wins have been by one-goal margins, nine by two goals and five by three goals and they have only once scored more than three goals in a league game.

There have been a handful of impressive comebacks and dramatic wins but mostly it has been a case of getting the job done as efficiently as possible and leaving enough energy for their main aim, which is winning the Champions League.

Ronaldo will miss the Milan game with a thigh injury and is doubtful for the Champions League quarter-final first leg away to Ajax Amsterdam on Wednesday.

However, Allegri said after the 2-0 win to Cagliari on Tuesday that their injury crisis was easing with Mario Mandzukic available and Leonardo Spinazzola, Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala all close to returning.

The game will be a severe test for Gennaro Gattuso's AC Milan who are fourth, the lowest of the Champions League slots, but have followed a run of five league wins in a row by taking only one point out of their last three matches.

"The strength that we’ve had for three or four months was missing," said Gattuso after Tuesday's 1-1 draw at home to lowly Udinese.

"We gave the feeling of fragility. We must remain calm. We know that we’re going through a tough spell and we must get out of it."

Gattuso said his team were going through one of those phases where the ball feels heavier.

"When you win five matches but then face some difficulties, the ball starts to weigh heavily," he said. "Things that happen that should be prevented and this is the moment we’re in"

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season.

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season. Second-placed Napoli's shock defeat at Empoli on Wednesday has left the Turin side a massive 18 points clear, meaning it is time to get the calculators out almost two months before the end of the season. In one of the most lop-sided championships in history, Juventus will clinch the title if they beat AC Milan at home on Saturday and then Napoli lose at home on Sunday to Genoa, who ended Juve's hopes of an unbeaten league season three weeks ago. That combination would leave Massimiliano Allegri's side 21 points clear with seven games each to play and a better head-to-head record over Napoli. They would also remain on course to break their own Serie A record of 102 points set in 2013-14, the last season before Antonio Conte left and was replaced by current coach Allegri. Helped by the signing of five times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus have been utterly dominant this season, winning 26 of their 30 matches, drawing three and losing one. They have the best attack and defence with 62 goals for and 19 conceded although they have been ruthless rather than sparkling. Twelve of their wins have been by one-goal margins, nine by two goals and five by three goals and they have only once scored more than three goals in a league game. There have been a handful of impressive comebacks and dramatic wins but mostly it has been a case of getting the job done as efficiently as possible and leaving enough energy for their main aim, which is winning the Champions League. Ronaldo will miss the Milan game with a thigh injury and is doubtful for the Champions League quarter-final first leg away to Ajax Amsterdam on Wednesday. However, Allegri said after the 2-0 win to Cagliari on Tuesday that their injury crisis was easing with Mario Mandzukic available and Leonardo Spinazzola, Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala all close to returning. The game will be a severe test for Gennaro Gattuso's AC Milan who are fourth, the lowest of the Champions League slots, but have followed a run of five league wins in a row by taking only one point out of their last three matches. "The strength that we’ve had for three or four months was missing," said Gattuso after Tuesday's 1-1 draw at home to lowly Udinese. "We gave the feeling of fragility. We must remain calm. We know that we’re going through a tough spell and we must get out of it." Gattuso said his team were going through one of those phases where the ball feels heavier. "When you win five matches but then face some difficulties, the ball starts to weigh heavily," he said. "Things that happen that should be prevented and this is the moment we’re in"

Juventus could clinch Serie A title with seven games left

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri.

Roma began the game in fifth place with a chance to move within a point of fourth-placed AC Milan, who lost 1-0 at Sampdoria on Saturday, but instead dropped to sixth after Atalanta won 3-1 at Parma to overtake them.

Arkadiusz Milik put Napoli ahead after two minutes, cleverly controlling Simone Verdi's chipped pass with his heel and then swiveling to fire past Robin Olsen.

Having dominated the first half, with another Milik goal chalked off for offside, Napoli were pegged back in stoppage time when Patrik Schick was fouled by goalkeeper Alex Meret and Diego Perotti slotted home the penalty.

Yet Roma were left reeling by two quick goals after the break as they slumped to a second defeat in Ranieri's three games in charge.

Jose Callejon's low cross slipped under Olsen's hand to leave Dries Mertens with a tap-in at the far post in the 50th minute, then Fabian Ruiz burst down the left and set up Verdi for the third five minutes later.

Substitute Amin Younes added the fourth, scoring at the second attempt after Roma failed to clear a corner.

Second-placed Napoli stayed 15 points behind runaway leaders Juventus, who beat Empoli 1-0 on Saturday.

Milan, in the lowest of the Champions League slots, have 51 points, followed by Atalanta (48) and Roma (47).

Ranieri returned for a second stint at the club to replace Eusebio Di Francesco, fired after a 3-0 derby defeat to Lazio was followed by Champions League elimination at the hands of Porto.

"It's difficult, but we are working hard and trying to do our best," said Ranieri. "The others run faster and harder and get to the ball first. Do I regret taking the job? Never."

Atalanta fell behind to an early Gervinho goal at Parma before Mario Pasalic levelled midway through the first half and two goals in the last 15 minutes from striker Duvan Zapata gave them the points.

The Colombian took his season's tally to 19, level with Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and two behind leading scorer Fabio Quagliarella of Sampdoria.

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri.

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri. Roma began the game in fifth place with a chance to move within a point of fourth-placed AC Milan, who lost 1-0 at Sampdoria on Saturday, but instead dropped to sixth after Atalanta won 3-1 at Parma to overtake them. Arkadiusz Milik put Napoli ahead after two minutes, cleverly controlling Simone Verdi's chipped pass with his heel and then swiveling to fire past Robin Olsen. Having dominated the first half, with another Milik goal chalked off for offside, Napoli were pegged back in stoppage time when Patrik Schick was fouled by goalkeeper Alex Meret and Diego Perotti slotted home the penalty. Yet Roma were left reeling by two quick goals after the break as they slumped to a second defeat in Ranieri's three games in charge. Jose Callejon's low cross slipped under Olsen's hand to leave Dries Mertens with a tap-in at the far post in the 50th minute, then Fabian Ruiz burst down the left and set up Verdi for the third five minutes later. Substitute Amin Younes added the fourth, scoring at the second attempt after Roma failed to clear a corner. Second-placed Napoli stayed 15 points behind runaway leaders Juventus, who beat Empoli 1-0 on Saturday. Milan, in the lowest of the Champions League slots, have 51 points, followed by Atalanta (48) and Roma (47). Ranieri returned for a second stint at the club to replace Eusebio Di Francesco, fired after a 3-0 derby defeat to Lazio was followed by Champions League elimination at the hands of Porto. "It's difficult, but we are working hard and trying to do our best," said Ranieri. "The others run faster and harder and get to the ball first. Do I regret taking the job? Never." Atalanta fell behind to an early Gervinho goal at Parma before Mario Pasalic levelled midway through the first half and two goals in the last 15 minutes from striker Duvan Zapata gave them the points. The Colombian took his season's tally to 19, level with Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and two behind leading scorer Fabio Quagliarella of Sampdoria.

Claudio Ranieri's problems mount as Napoli thump Roma 4-1

Claudio Ranieri's AS Roma homecoming is quickly threatening to turn sour with the veteran coach facing a multitude of problems ahead of Sunday's match against Napoli.

Ranieri, who was appointed one week after being fired by English Premier League side Fulham where he had been in charge for three months, appears to have leapt from the frying pan into the fire.

Having been knocked out of the Champions League by Porto, which led to the downfall of predecessor Eusebio Di Francesco, fifth-placed Roma have lost ground in the race for the Champions League places next season.

They are four points adrift of the top four where they must finish to qualify. Napoli are second with 60 points, 15 behind runaway leaders Juventus who host Empoli on Saturday.

Rome-born Ranieri, in his second stint in charge of the club where he also began his playing career, has inherited a team plagued by injuries and form problems and with an infuriating tendency to switch off during matches.

Having beaten Empoli in his first game, Ranieri's side then lost 2-1 to SPAL, continuing a string of defeats against teams from the lower half of the table. Ranieri gave a withering assessment of the performance against SPAL.

"We need to be more determined, more of a team and also improve our tactics, because we ran hard, but with no real reasoning and that's not good enough," he said.

Italian media reported that tempers flared in the Roma dressing-room at halftime at SPAL with a furious row between strikers Stephan El Shaarawy and Edin Dzeko.

The club have not commented on the reports.

Roma go into Sunday's match with injury problems, something which has been a feature of their season.

El Shaarawy and full back Alessandro Florenzi both left the Italy squad with calf problems during the international break and are unavailable while Daniele De Rossi, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Javier Pastore are doubtful.

La Repubblica newspaper calculated that Roma's squad have suffered 40 muscular injuries between them this season.

There are also worries about the form of goalkeeper Robin Olsen after his performance in the 3-3 draw for Sweden against Norway on Tuesday, with suggestions that Ranieri could turn to Antonio Mirante.

Olsen's long-term future at the club, after some unconvincing displays, is also in doubt.

Meanwhile, forward Diego Perotti denied comments by his father Hugo, a former player, about a possible return to Argentina to play for Boca Juniors.

"My father dropped me in it and I'm angry," Perotti told Tyc Sport in Argentina. "I still have two years of my contract to go and I'm not returning to Argentina at the moment."

Ranieri warned that the players were playing for their future at the club. "There's a plan in place if Roma get into the Champions League. If we don't, quite a few of these guys could change clubs," he said.

"I can't say if there will be a revolution if Roma don't qualify for the Champions League, but if they don't get the revenue from that competition something will inevitably have to change."

Claudio Ranieri's AS Roma homecoming is quickly threatening to turn sour with the veteran coach facing a multitude of problems ahead of Sunday's match against Napoli.

Claudio Ranieri's AS Roma homecoming is quickly threatening to turn sour with the veteran coach facing a multitude of problems ahead of Sunday's match against Napoli. Ranieri, who was appointed one week after being fired by English Premier League side Fulham where he had been in charge for three months, appears to have leapt from the frying pan into the fire. Having been knocked out of the Champions League by Porto, which led to the downfall of predecessor Eusebio Di Francesco, fifth-placed Roma have lost ground in the race for the Champions League places next season. They are four points adrift of the top four where they must finish to qualify. Napoli are second with 60 points, 15 behind runaway leaders Juventus who host Empoli on Saturday. Rome-born Ranieri, in his second stint in charge of the club where he also began his playing career, has inherited a team plagued by injuries and form problems and with an infuriating tendency to switch off during matches. Having beaten Empoli in his first game, Ranieri's side then lost 2-1 to SPAL, continuing a string of defeats against teams from the lower half of the table. Ranieri gave a withering assessment of the performance against SPAL. "We need to be more determined, more of a team and also improve our tactics, because we ran hard, but with no real reasoning and that's not good enough," he said. Italian media reported that tempers flared in the Roma dressing-room at halftime at SPAL with a furious row between strikers Stephan El Shaarawy and Edin Dzeko. The club have not commented on the reports. Roma go into Sunday's match with injury problems, something which has been a feature of their season. El Shaarawy and full back Alessandro Florenzi both left the Italy squad with calf problems during the international break and are unavailable while Daniele De Rossi, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Javier Pastore are doubtful. La Repubblica newspaper calculated that Roma's squad have suffered 40 muscular injuries between them this season. There are also worries about the form of goalkeeper Robin Olsen after his performance in the 3-3 draw for Sweden against Norway on Tuesday, with suggestions that Ranieri could turn to Antonio Mirante. Olsen's long-term future at the club, after some unconvincing displays, is also in doubt. Meanwhile, forward Diego Perotti denied comments by his father Hugo, a former player, about a possible return to Argentina to play for Boca Juniors. "My father dropped me in it and I'm angry," Perotti told Tyc Sport in Argentina. "I still have two years of my contract to go and I'm not returning to Argentina at the moment." Ranieri warned that the players were playing for their future at the club. "There's a plan in place if Roma get into the Champions League. If we don't, quite a few of these guys could change clubs," he said. "I can't say if there will be a revolution if Roma don't qualify for the Champions League, but if they don't get the revenue from that competition something will inevitably have to change."

Claudio Ranieri's problems multiply as Roma face Napoli

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight.

Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro.

Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London.

Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday. Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight. Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro. Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London. Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Europa League quarter-finals: Napoli face Arsenal, Slavia meet Chelsea

Serie A leaders Juventus held on to win 2-1 at Napoli in a stormy top-of-the-table clash on Sunday which saw both teams have a player sent off and Lorenzo Insigne miss a late penalty for the hosts.

The win, courtesy of goals from Miralem Pjanic and Emre Can, took Juve 16 points clear of Napoli and almost certainly wrapped up an eighth straight title for the unbeaten Turin giants who have 72 points out of a possible 78 with 12 games left.

Juventus raced into a 2-0 halftime lead after Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret was sent off in the 25th minute. The visitors then had Pjanic dismissed and Napoli's Jose Callejon pulled one back before Insigne let the Turin side off the hook.

The game hinged on an incident in the 25th minute when Napoli fullback Kevin Malcuit's back pass was intercepted by Cristiano Ronaldo, forcing Meret to come out of his penalty area and lunge at the Portuguese forward who went to ground.

The referee awarded a straight red card without reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor. Replays, though, suggested that, although Ronaldo had to jump over Meret's outstretched leg, no contact was made.

"The rules, as I understand them, say that Meret should be sent off whether he makes contact or not," said Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri. "The referee decided, as did the video assistant."

However, Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti said the referee should have seen the replay himself.&nbsp;

"The game was influenced by a controversial decision - did Meret touch him or not, which direction was the ball going? It would have been easier if the referee had looked on the monitor, given that it is there," he said.

PJANIC PENALTY

Meret's dismissal meant Napoli striker Arkadiusz Milik was sacrificed and replaced by substitute keeper David Ospina, whose first job was to pick the ball out of the net as Pjanic scored from the resulting free kick after 28 minutes.

Can added the second in the 39th when he was allowed a free header but the game took another twist with Pjanic's dismissal for a second bookable offence -- a handball in midfield -- two minutes after halftime.

Callejon stole in behind Juve defender Giorgio Chiellini to turn in Insigne's inswinging cross in the 61st minute to reduce the gap as Napoli turned the screw.

The hosts swarmed around the Juventus area and were awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute for handball against Alex Sandro, a decision awarded after a VAR review, but Insigne fired the spot kick against the inside of the post.

"I went to sleep because I should have taken Pjanic off after the first yellow card," said Allegri.

"Obviously, sixteen points is a significant advantage but the maths say that we haven`t won the championship yet."

Serie A leaders Juventus held on to win 2-1 at Napoli in a stormy top-of-the-table clash on Sunday which saw both teams have a player sent off and Lorenzo Insigne miss a late penalty for the hosts.

Serie A leaders Juventus held on to win 2-1 at Napoli in a stormy top-of-the-table clash on Sunday which saw both teams have a player sent off and Lorenzo Insigne miss a late penalty for the hosts. The win, courtesy of goals from Miralem Pjanic and Emre Can, took Juve 16 points clear of Napoli and almost certainly wrapped up an eighth straight title for the unbeaten Turin giants who have 72 points out of a possible 78 with 12 games left. Juventus raced into a 2-0 halftime lead after Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret was sent off in the 25th minute. The visitors then had Pjanic dismissed and Napoli's Jose Callejon pulled one back before Insigne let the Turin side off the hook. The game hinged on an incident in the 25th minute when Napoli fullback Kevin Malcuit's back pass was intercepted by Cristiano Ronaldo, forcing Meret to come out of his penalty area and lunge at the Portuguese forward who went to ground. The referee awarded a straight red card without reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor. Replays, though, suggested that, although Ronaldo had to jump over Meret's outstretched leg, no contact was made. "The rules, as I understand them, say that Meret should be sent off whether he makes contact or not," said Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri. "The referee decided, as did the video assistant." However, Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti said the referee should have seen the replay himself. "The game was influenced by a controversial decision - did Meret touch him or not, which direction was the ball going? It would have been easier if the referee had looked on the monitor, given that it is there," he said. PJANIC PENALTY Meret's dismissal meant Napoli striker Arkadiusz Milik was sacrificed and replaced by substitute keeper David Ospina, whose first job was to pick the ball out of the net as Pjanic scored from the resulting free kick after 28 minutes. Can added the second in the 39th when he was allowed a free header but the game took another twist with Pjanic's dismissal for a second bookable offence -- a handball in midfield -- two minutes after halftime. Callejon stole in behind Juve defender Giorgio Chiellini to turn in Insigne's inswinging cross in the 61st minute to reduce the gap as Napoli turned the screw. The hosts swarmed around the Juventus area and were awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute for handball against Alex Sandro, a decision awarded after a VAR review, but Insigne fired the spot kick against the inside of the post. "I went to sleep because I should have taken Pjanic off after the first yellow card," said Allegri. "Obviously, sixteen points is a significant advantage but the maths say that we haven`t won the championship yet."

Serie A: Juventus win after two sent off and Napoli miss late penalty

Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said.&nbsp;

"For those who were really worried about my dad I can tell you that he is well," Dalma wrote on twitter after fears over her father’s health spread. "He is going home soon."&nbsp;

The 58-year-old was having a routine medical in his homeland before returning to Mexico, where he is coach of second division side Dorados de Sinaloa, when doctors discovered the problem.&nbsp;

However, a source close to the family told Reuters the problem was not serious and that the former Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona midfielder, who famously led his country to the 1986 World Cup title, was not in any danger.

Another source said Maradona, who left the hospital without talking to the media, may have to undergo more tests.

Friday's scare was the latest for Maradona, who has suffered frequent periods in hospital over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century.

He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game. Argentina won 2-1 to reach the last 16, where they were knocked out of the tournament by eventual winners France.

Maradona was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use. He later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight.

In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems.

In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees.

The unexpected news of his admittance to hospital on Friday came just hours after Maradona’s lawyer confirmed he would coach in Mexico for a second consecutive season.

Maradona took over at struggling Dorados de Sinaloa in September and got them into the playoffs where they lost to Atletico San Luis.

“Diego Maradona has arranged to continue with the Dorados de Sinaloa and will stay as coach of the team for the whole season,” his agent Matias Morla wrote on twitter.

The club said his assistant Jose Maria Martinez would lead the team until Maradona returned.

Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said.

Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said. "For those who were really worried about my dad I can tell you that he is well," Dalma wrote on twitter after fears over her father’s health spread. "He is going home soon." The 58-year-old was having a routine medical in his homeland before returning to Mexico, where he is coach of second division side Dorados de Sinaloa, when doctors discovered the problem. However, a source close to the family told Reuters the problem was not serious and that the former Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona midfielder, who famously led his country to the 1986 World Cup title, was not in any danger. Another source said Maradona, who left the hospital without talking to the media, may have to undergo more tests. Friday's scare was the latest for Maradona, who has suffered frequent periods in hospital over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century. He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game. Argentina won 2-1 to reach the last 16, where they were knocked out of the tournament by eventual winners France. Maradona was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use. He later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight. In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems. In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees. The unexpected news of his admittance to hospital on Friday came just hours after Maradona’s lawyer confirmed he would coach in Mexico for a second consecutive season. Maradona took over at struggling Dorados de Sinaloa in September and got them into the playoffs where they lost to Atletico San Luis. “Diego Maradona has arranged to continue with the Dorados de Sinaloa and will stay as coach of the team for the whole season,” his agent Matias Morla wrote on twitter. The club said his assistant Jose Maria Martinez would lead the team until Maradona returned.

Diego Maradona out of hospital after internal bleeding scare

Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti said on Friday it was time to say "Enough" to racism and hatred in soccer following incidents before and during Wednesday's 1-0 win over Napoli.

Inter fans made animal noises and racist chants at Napoli’s Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly during the match, while one fan was killed when he was hit by a car during a violent clash near the stadium before kickoff.

Other coaches also condemned the incidents although they had differing opinions on how to stop the problem.

Inter, who visit Empoli on Saturday, have been ordered to play their next two home games behind closed doors because of the incidents involving Koulibaly.

"I condemn (what happened) with no ifs and buts," Spalletti told a news conference.

"It's the moment to say 'Enough' to hatred in football, 'Enough' to racism and any form of discrimination in the stadium," he said.

"'Enough' to those who celebrate the Heysel or Superga disasters," he added, referring to the Brussels tragedy in which 39 people, mostly Juventus fans, died in 1985, and the 1949 air crash where Torino players and officials were among the 31 dead.

"'Enough' to jeering a coach or a player for 90 minutes... 'Enough' to hatred in football in general. That is the main thing."

Spalletti said that Inter were "with Koulibaly, as we are at the side of all those who are targeted during the games".

"It's very disappointing not to play in front of our own crowd but, if it's the price we have to pay to win this battle, we'll do it willingly," he added.

AS Roma coach Eusebio Di Francesco agreed with Napoli's Carlo Ancelotti, who said on Wednesday that his team will walk off the pitch if there is a repeat of the incident.

"I fully agree with what he says," he said. "If the state cannot deal with the problem, then it is up to us to give an important response."

AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso also backed Ancelotti.

"We just need to have the courage to do it," he said. "If the coach has the courage, then it becomes easier for everyone else.

"But this isn't just a problem in our country, because I've seen bananas thrown into the pitch in others."

Education needed

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri, however, said he did not believe that stopping matches was the answer.

"I don't tolerate any form of racism or insults about tragedies and deaths, but we should not stop games," he said.

"We need to educate children when they start school. And we, presidents, coaches and players, need to be aware that our words carry weight and influence people. We must be more responsible."

Former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri, now with English Premier League side Chelsea, remembered that two matches were interrupted because of racist incidents when he was in charge of the team.

"I'm really very sorry for Kalidou because he is a wonderful man," he said. "I'm sorry for him but I think in Italy we can do something more about this problem."

Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti said on Friday it was time to say "Enough" to racism and hatred in soccer following incidents before and during Wednesday's 1-0 win over Napoli.

Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti said on Friday it was time to say "Enough" to racism and hatred in soccer following incidents before and during Wednesday's 1-0 win over Napoli. Inter fans made animal noises and racist chants at Napoli’s Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly during the match, while one fan was killed when he was hit by a car during a violent clash near the stadium before kickoff. Other coaches also condemned the incidents although they had differing opinions on how to stop the problem. Inter, who visit Empoli on Saturday, have been ordered to play their next two home games behind closed doors because of the incidents involving Koulibaly. "I condemn (what happened) with no ifs and buts," Spalletti told a news conference. "It's the moment to say 'Enough' to hatred in football, 'Enough' to racism and any form of discrimination in the stadium," he said. "'Enough' to those who celebrate the Heysel or Superga disasters," he added, referring to the Brussels tragedy in which 39 people, mostly Juventus fans, died in 1985, and the 1949 air crash where Torino players and officials were among the 31 dead. "'Enough' to jeering a coach or a player for 90 minutes... 'Enough' to hatred in football in general. That is the main thing." Spalletti said that Inter were "with Koulibaly, as we are at the side of all those who are targeted during the games". "It's very disappointing not to play in front of our own crowd but, if it's the price we have to pay to win this battle, we'll do it willingly," he added. AS Roma coach Eusebio Di Francesco agreed with Napoli's Carlo Ancelotti, who said on Wednesday that his team will walk off the pitch if there is a repeat of the incident. "I fully agree with what he says," he said. "If the state cannot deal with the problem, then it is up to us to give an important response." AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso also backed Ancelotti. "We just need to have the courage to do it," he said. "If the coach has the courage, then it becomes easier for everyone else. "But this isn't just a problem in our country, because I've seen bananas thrown into the pitch in others." Education needed Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri, however, said he did not believe that stopping matches was the answer. "I don't tolerate any form of racism or insults about tragedies and deaths, but we should not stop games," he said. "We need to educate children when they start school. And we, presidents, coaches and players, need to be aware that our words carry weight and influence people. We must be more responsible." Former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri, now with English Premier League side Chelsea, remembered that two matches were interrupted because of racist incidents when he was in charge of the team. "I'm really very sorry for Kalidou because he is a wonderful man," he said. "I'm sorry for him but I think in Italy we can do something more about this problem."

'That's enough,' says Inter coach Luciano Spalletti, after racism and violence

Cristiano Ronaldo saved Juventus' unbeaten Serie A record this season when he came off the bench to score the equaliser in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Atalanta on Wednesday.

Juve, who dropped their first away points of the season, were down to 10 men at one of Serie A's toughest venues when Ronaldo nodded home from close range in the 78th minute.

The Turin side thought they had snatched a win when Leonardo Bonucci volleyed home from a free kick in stoppage time but it was ruled out for offside.

Juventus, with 16 wins and two draws from 18 games, have 50 points, nine ahead of Napoli who travel to Inter Milan later on Wednesday. Atalanta are eighth with 25 points.

"We knew we were in for a battle today. We did well to stay in the game after going down to 10 men," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri.

"We could have won it at the end but it's still a good result against an excellent side."

Atalanta defender Berat Djimsiti miscued and sent an innocuous Alex Sandro cross into his own net to put Juventus ahead in the second minute before two goals from Duvan Zapata turned the game around.

The Colombian, scorer of Atalanta's last eight goals, collected Alejandro Gomez's pass with his back to goal and turned easily past Bonucci before firing a low shot past Wojciech Szczesny in the 24th minute.

Juventus midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 53rd minute and Zapata headed Atalanta in front from a corner three minutes later.

Ronaldo, left out of the starting line-up for a Serie A game for the first time since his move from Real Madrid, came to the rescue with his 12th league goal of the season.

A corner was floated to the far post, Mario Mandzukic headed it back into the middle and Ronaldo nodded home.

Allegri apologised for his angry reaction on the touchline to Bentancur's dismissal.

"I got a bit angry today and I'm sorry about that but we should be setting an example for the fans," he said. "If we want to improve things in Italy, we need to improve our football culture.

Cristiano Ronaldo saved Juventus' unbeaten Serie A record this season when he came off the bench to score the equaliser in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Atalanta on Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo saved Juventus' unbeaten Serie A record this season when he came off the bench to score the equaliser in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Atalanta on Wednesday. Juve, who dropped their first away points of the season, were down to 10 men at one of Serie A's toughest venues when Ronaldo nodded home from close range in the 78th minute. The Turin side thought they had snatched a win when Leonardo Bonucci volleyed home from a free kick in stoppage time but it was ruled out for offside. Juventus, with 16 wins and two draws from 18 games, have 50 points, nine ahead of Napoli who travel to Inter Milan later on Wednesday. Atalanta are eighth with 25 points. "We knew we were in for a battle today. We did well to stay in the game after going down to 10 men," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. "We could have won it at the end but it's still a good result against an excellent side." Atalanta defender Berat Djimsiti miscued and sent an innocuous Alex Sandro cross into his own net to put Juventus ahead in the second minute before two goals from Duvan Zapata turned the game around. The Colombian, scorer of Atalanta's last eight goals, collected Alejandro Gomez's pass with his back to goal and turned easily past Bonucci before firing a low shot past Wojciech Szczesny in the 24th minute. Juventus midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for a second bookable offence in the 53rd minute and Zapata headed Atalanta in front from a corner three minutes later. Ronaldo, left out of the starting line-up for a Serie A game for the first time since his move from Real Madrid, came to the rescue with his 12th league goal of the season. A corner was floated to the far post, Mario Mandzukic headed it back into the middle and Ronaldo nodded home. Allegri apologised for his angry reaction on the touchline to Bentancur's dismissal. "I got a bit angry today and I'm sorry about that but we should be setting an example for the fans," he said. "If we want to improve things in Italy, we need to improve our football culture.

Substitute Ronaldo saves 10-man Juve's unbeaten record

Liverpool made life difficult for themselves in Tuesday's 1-0 Champions League win over Napoli but few sides will fancy drawing them in the last 16, defender Virgil van Dijk has said.

Liverpool spurned several clear chances either side of Mohamed Salah's 34th-minute strike but held on to finish second in Group C, ahead of Napoli on goals scored, after the clubs were tied on nine points with the same head-to-head record.

"We could have made it a bit easier if we had scored two more ... but the job is done and we are through to the knockout stages," Van Dijk told the club website.

Last season's finalists will find out who they meet in the next round when the draw is made on Monday and Van Dijk said on current form there would be few teams crossing their fingers to get Liverpool.

"I don't think so. That's what we showed last season and this season as well," he added. "We'll see what's going to happen."

Liverpool made life difficult for themselves in Tuesday's 1-0 Champions League win over Napoli but few sides will fancy drawing them in the last 16, defender Virgil van Dijk has said.

Liverpool made life difficult for themselves in Tuesday's 1-0 Champions League win over Napoli but few sides will fancy drawing them in the last 16, defender Virgil van Dijk has said. Liverpool spurned several clear chances either side of Mohamed Salah's 34th-minute strike but held on to finish second in Group C, ahead of Napoli on goals scored, after the clubs were tied on nine points with the same head-to-head record. "We could have made it a bit easier if we had scored two more ... but the job is done and we are through to the knockout stages," Van Dijk told the club website. Last season's finalists will find out who they meet in the next round when the draw is made on Monday and Van Dijk said on current form there would be few teams crossing their fingers to get Liverpool. "I don't think so. That's what we showed last season and this season as well," he added. "We'll see what's going to happen."

Liverpool made hard work of Napoli, says Van Dijk

Mohamed Salah's delightful first-half strike gave Liverpool a 1-0 win over Napoli that sent them into the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Champions+league+liverpool">Champions League</a>'s last 16 and the Italian side crashing out at a tension-filled Anfield on Tuesday.

Liverpool knew that a 1-0 win, or a victory by two goals or more, would be enough to seal a top-two spot in Group C, and Salah was again the hero for the hosts, scoring what proved to be the winner with a magical individual burst in the 34th minute.

Napoli pressed for a leveller in the second half, with Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denying Arkadiusz Milik in stoppage time with a superb save, but the home side's resolute defence stood firm to the intense relief of the home fans.

Paris St Germain's 4-1 victory at Red Star Belgrade meant they finished top with 11 points while Napoli, who started the day leading the way, exited the competition as Liverpool snatched second spot on goals scored after both teams finished with nine points.

"I’m still full of good feeling," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said. "This game was just amazing. Outstanding, unbelievable. The boys played with their whole heart on the pitch."

Klopp stuck with the midfield three that struggled against PSG in their last Champions League match and it was Napoli who found their rhythm first, creating some promising openings early on.

Salah was then presented with a glorious opportunity to break the deadlock, but his touch let him down at the last moment while at the other end, Marek Hamsik could not find the target from a good position.

Kalidou Koulibaly was doing a fine job of marking Salah, until the Egyptian produced a moment of magic to score the only goal of the game, skipping past Koulibaly before slotting in from a tight angle -- his 34th goal for Liverpool in 2018 in all competitions.

Liverpool really should have extended their lead in the second half, with Salah firing wide from a good position, before Sadio Mane was denied by a fine save from David Ospina.

Napoli saved their best attacking play for the latter stages, with Jose Callejon firing over from close range, before Mane somehow shot wide when he should have scored.

Milik almost broke Liverpool hearts right at the death, only to be denied by Alisson, who raced from his line to make a game-saving block.

"Napoli have gone very close but not quite far enough," Napoli manager Carlo Ancelotti said.

"We have no regrets really. The players have done well in such a very difficult group. It would have been a wonderful achievement to qualify. Lots of people did not even think we would take it this far."

Mohamed Salah's delightful first-half strike gave Liverpool a 1-0 win over Napoli that sent them into the Champions League's last 16 and the Italian side crashing out at a tension-filled Anfield on Tuesday.

Mohamed Salah's delightful first-half strike gave Liverpool a 1-0 win over Napoli that sent them into the Champions League's last 16 and the Italian side crashing out at a tension-filled Anfield on Tuesday. Liverpool knew that a 1-0 win, or a victory by two goals or more, would be enough to seal a top-two spot in Group C, and Salah was again the hero for the hosts, scoring what proved to be the winner with a magical individual burst in the 34th minute. Napoli pressed for a leveller in the second half, with Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denying Arkadiusz Milik in stoppage time with a superb save, but the home side's resolute defence stood firm to the intense relief of the home fans. Paris St Germain's 4-1 victory at Red Star Belgrade meant they finished top with 11 points while Napoli, who started the day leading the way, exited the competition as Liverpool snatched second spot on goals scored after both teams finished with nine points. "I’m still full of good feeling," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said. "This game was just amazing. Outstanding, unbelievable. The boys played with their whole heart on the pitch." Klopp stuck with the midfield three that struggled against PSG in their last Champions League match and it was Napoli who found their rhythm first, creating some promising openings early on. Salah was then presented with a glorious opportunity to break the deadlock, but his touch let him down at the last moment while at the other end, Marek Hamsik could not find the target from a good position. Kalidou Koulibaly was doing a fine job of marking Salah, until the Egyptian produced a moment of magic to score the only goal of the game, skipping past Koulibaly before slotting in from a tight angle -- his 34th goal for Liverpool in 2018 in all competitions. Liverpool really should have extended their lead in the second half, with Salah firing wide from a good position, before Sadio Mane was denied by a fine save from David Ospina. Napoli saved their best attacking play for the latter stages, with Jose Callejon firing over from close range, before Mane somehow shot wide when he should have scored. Milik almost broke Liverpool hearts right at the death, only to be denied by Alisson, who raced from his line to make a game-saving block. "Napoli have gone very close but not quite far enough," Napoli manager Carlo Ancelotti said. "We have no regrets really. The players have done well in such a very difficult group. It would have been a wonderful achievement to qualify. Lots of people did not even think we would take it this far."

Champions League: Salah's strike sinks Napoli; Liverpool reach last 16

Sadio Mane will be ready to start in Tuesday's must-win Champions League group stage clash with Napoli, according to manager Juergen Klopp who has called on the home supporters to deliver an electric atmosphere.

Senegalese forward Mane, having recovered from a foot injury sustained against Everton, returned as a second-half substitute in Liverpool's 4-0 win over Bournemouth which took them to the top of the Premier League on Saturday.

"Sadio can deal with the pain obviously -- it looked like that in Bournemouth, so that's cool," Klopp told a news conference on Monday.

"It's good enough that we can consider him at least.

"We have two sessions still to come -- we'll train tomorrow morning as well. We have the meeting to do. In the squad there is nothing really serious after the (Bournemouth) game, that's good."

Liverpool are third in Group C with six points, three behind Napoli and two behind Paris St Germain who they lost to a fortnight ago. They need to either win 1-0 or by two goals or more to pip Napoli on head-to-head.

The stage is set for a tense night under the Anfield lights where Liverpool will require the kind of grandstand finish they enjoyed in 2004 when they needed to beat Greek side Olympiakios by two clear goals in their last group game to progress and did so thanks to Steven Gerrard's last-gasp screamer.

"Now we have the chance to go through and that is pretty special after the campaign we played so far," Klopp, whose side lost all three away games, told reporters.

"Now we have to create a special atmosphere with the way we play and we have to use it as well.

"I am really looking forward to it. It is a big opportunity for us and we will try everything to put it right."

Klopp confirmed defender Dejan Lovren, who has missed Liverpool's last three matches, will need a late fitness test before a decision is taken on his involvement.

"Yesterday he was out on the pitch and looked quite well," Klopp added. "Can he be part of training today or not? We will see that."

The manager also expects midfielder Adam Lallana to feature after the player felt no ill-effects from a head injury he sustained against Bournemouth.

Sadio Mane will be ready to start in Tuesday's must-win Champions League group stage clash with Napoli, according to manager Juergen Klopp who has called on the home supporters to deliver an electric atmosphere.

Sadio Mane will be ready to start in Tuesday's must-win Champions League group stage clash with Napoli, according to manager Juergen Klopp who has called on the home supporters to deliver an electric atmosphere. Senegalese forward Mane, having recovered from a foot injury sustained against Everton, returned as a second-half substitute in Liverpool's 4-0 win over Bournemouth which took them to the top of the Premier League on Saturday. "Sadio can deal with the pain obviously -- it looked like that in Bournemouth, so that's cool," Klopp told a news conference on Monday. "It's good enough that we can consider him at least. "We have two sessions still to come -- we'll train tomorrow morning as well. We have the meeting to do. In the squad there is nothing really serious after the (Bournemouth) game, that's good." Liverpool are third in Group C with six points, three behind Napoli and two behind Paris St Germain who they lost to a fortnight ago. They need to either win 1-0 or by two goals or more to pip Napoli on head-to-head. The stage is set for a tense night under the Anfield lights where Liverpool will require the kind of grandstand finish they enjoyed in 2004 when they needed to beat Greek side Olympiakios by two clear goals in their last group game to progress and did so thanks to Steven Gerrard's last-gasp screamer. "Now we have the chance to go through and that is pretty special after the campaign we played so far," Klopp, whose side lost all three away games, told reporters. "Now we have to create a special atmosphere with the way we play and we have to use it as well. "I am really looking forward to it. It is a big opportunity for us and we will try everything to put it right." Klopp confirmed defender Dejan Lovren, who has missed Liverpool's last three matches, will need a late fitness test before a decision is taken on his involvement. "Yesterday he was out on the pitch and looked quite well," Klopp added. "Can he be part of training today or not? We will see that." The manager also expects midfielder Adam Lallana to feature after the player felt no ill-effects from a head injury he sustained against Bournemouth.

Champions League: Liverpool receive Sadio Mane fitness boost ahead of Napoli clash

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa.

Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday.

But substitute Ruiz pulled Napoli level immediately after play resumed, with defender Biraschi piling the misery on the hosts by turning into his own net three minutes from time.

Napoli move up into second place, three points behind champions Juventus who travel to AC Milan on Sunday, and three ahead of third-placed Inter Milan who play at Bergamo side Atalanta.

"This success is worth even more than three points, because it was achieved on a difficult pitch made heavy by the rain," said Brazilian midfielder Allan.

"We won and that's what is important. It gives us peace of mind before the (international) break."&nbsp;

Ancelotti's side proved wasteful in the first half with Lorenzo Insigne hitting the post and Poland's Arkadiusz Milik being denied in front of goal.

Dries Mertens started on the bench, with Polish pair Milik and Krzysztof Piatek up front for the visitors.

Insigne rattled the post on 11 minutes with Argentina defender Cristian Romero deflecting away a Zielinski strike.

But Kouame broke the deadlock from a Romulo cross, rising highest to nod in his second goal this season.

Home goalkeeper Andrei Radu punched a dangerous Insigne cross off the head of Jose Callejon, before denying Milik with 10 minutes left of the first half.

Ancelotti's side had already lost in Genoa this season when they fell 3-0 to Sampdoria, and another defeat was looming as the rain came down.

But Ruiz found a way through when Allan crossed to Mertens whose clever backheel in the penalty area set up the Spaniard to beat Radu.

Biraschi worsened Genoa's current crisis amid a scramble in his own goalmouth, as they slipped to a third straight loss after last week's 5-0 thrashing by Inter.

"It hurts to lose to a late own goal," said Genoa coach Ivan Juric.

Gervinho strikes for Parma&nbsp; 
==============================

Earlier, promoted Parma came away with a 2-1 win from Torino to move level on 17 points with their rivals for a Europa League spot, who sit in eighth.

Walter Mazzarri's side are unbeaten since losing to Napoli on September 23.

Former Arsenal winger Gervinho scored his third goal this season after a defensive mix-up from Armando Izzo and Cameroonian Nicolas Nkoulou saw the Ivorian surge forward with a brilliant solo run after nine minutes, with Roberto Inglese adding a 25th-minute second.

Daniele Baselli pulled one back for Torino eight minutes before the break.

Cagliari came from two goals down to grab a point at SPAL.

Andrea Petagna headed in after less than three minutes for SPAL with captain Mirco Antenucci drilling in the second on 71 minutes.

But Cagliari battled back and five minutes later were level as Leonardo Pavoletti headed in a corner and Artur Ionita equalised with a quick turn and shot.&nbsp;

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa. Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday.

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa. Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday. But substitute Ruiz pulled Napoli level immediately after play resumed, with defender Biraschi piling the misery on the hosts by turning into his own net three minutes from time. Napoli move up into second place, three points behind champions Juventus who travel to AC Milan on Sunday, and three ahead of third-placed Inter Milan who play at Bergamo side Atalanta. "This success is worth even more than three points, because it was achieved on a difficult pitch made heavy by the rain," said Brazilian midfielder Allan. "We won and that's what is important. It gives us peace of mind before the (international) break." Ancelotti's side proved wasteful in the first half with Lorenzo Insigne hitting the post and Poland's Arkadiusz Milik being denied in front of goal. Dries Mertens started on the bench, with Polish pair Milik and Krzysztof Piatek up front for the visitors. Insigne rattled the post on 11 minutes with Argentina defender Cristian Romero deflecting away a Zielinski strike. But Kouame broke the deadlock from a Romulo cross, rising highest to nod in his second goal this season. Home goalkeeper Andrei Radu punched a dangerous Insigne cross off the head of Jose Callejon, before denying Milik with 10 minutes left of the first half. Ancelotti's side had already lost in Genoa this season when they fell 3-0 to Sampdoria, and another defeat was looming as the rain came down. But Ruiz found a way through when Allan crossed to Mertens whose clever backheel in the penalty area set up the Spaniard to beat Radu. Biraschi worsened Genoa's current crisis amid a scramble in his own goalmouth, as they slipped to a third straight loss after last week's 5-0 thrashing by Inter. "It hurts to lose to a late own goal," said Genoa coach Ivan Juric. Gervinho strikes for Parma ============================== Earlier, promoted Parma came away with a 2-1 win from Torino to move level on 17 points with their rivals for a Europa League spot, who sit in eighth. Walter Mazzarri's side are unbeaten since losing to Napoli on September 23. Former Arsenal winger Gervinho scored his third goal this season after a defensive mix-up from Armando Izzo and Cameroonian Nicolas Nkoulou saw the Ivorian surge forward with a brilliant solo run after nine minutes, with Roberto Inglese adding a 25th-minute second. Daniele Baselli pulled one back for Torino eight minutes before the break. Cagliari came from two goals down to grab a point at SPAL. Andrea Petagna headed in after less than three minutes for SPAL with captain Mirco Antenucci drilling in the second on 71 minutes. But Cagliari battled back and five minutes later were level as Leonardo Pavoletti headed in a corner and Artur Ionita equalised with a quick turn and shot.

Ruiz and late own goal rescue Napoli in rainy Genoa

Mohamed Salah scored twice on a record-breaking night as Liverpool beat Red Star Belgrade 4-0 in Champions League Group C at Anfield on Wednesday to get their last-16 hopes back on track.

After their defeat at Napoli in their previous game, Juergen Klopp's side bounced back with his attacking trio again all delivering as Salah made it 50 goals for the club while Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane also both hit the target.

Egyptian Salah appeared to be rediscovering his deadly form of last season as he reached his half-century quicker than any Liverpool player in history, achieving the feat in 65 games -- 12 quicker than the previous record holder Albert Stubbins.

Red Star, beaten 6-1 by Paris St Germain in their last outing and without away support as the club served the second of a two-match ban on travelling fans, posed little threat in a subdued atmosphere.

Yet Liverpool were still able to produce enough quality to comfortably pick up the three points and, with PSG and Napoli drawing 2-2, they now top the group with six points, one more than Napoli and two ahead of the French champions.

"When the game calmed down we played&nbsp;football&nbsp;and created chances - it was a really good game and I enjoyed it a lot," said Klopp.

"It was a good&nbsp;football&nbsp;game and a deserved win."

Firmino set Liverpool, beaten at Napoli in their previous game, on their way in the 20th minute with an emphatic finish after a smart pull back from Andy Robertson found the Brazilian in space in the box.

Swiss international Xherdan Shaqiri, busy and creative throughout, fed Salah for Liverpool's second on the stroke of halftime, the Egyptian firing home from inside the box.

Red Star had threatened little and Liverpool put the game beyond them six minutes after the interval when Filip Stojkovic stuck out an arm to block Mane and Salah blasted home the penalty for his landmark goal.

There has been talk of Salah struggling for form this season and while he still looks a little short of full sharpness, six goals in 13 games in all competitions is no mean return.

Mane then missed another penalty, his shot pushed on to the bar by Red Star keeper Milan Borjan, before making amends with a close-range finish in the 80th minute.

Substitute Adam Lallana could have made it five when he burst through alone from the halfway line but Canada international Borjan denied him.

Mohamed Salah scored twice on a record-breaking night as Liverpool beat Red Star Belgrade 4-0 in Champions League Group C at Anfield on Wednesday to get their last-16 hopes back on track.

Mohamed Salah scored twice on a record-breaking night as Liverpool beat Red Star Belgrade 4-0 in Champions League Group C at Anfield on Wednesday to get their last-16 hopes back on track. After their defeat at Napoli in their previous game, Juergen Klopp's side bounced back with his attacking trio again all delivering as Salah made it 50 goals for the club while Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane also both hit the target. Egyptian Salah appeared to be rediscovering his deadly form of last season as he reached his half-century quicker than any Liverpool player in history, achieving the feat in 65 games -- 12 quicker than the previous record holder Albert Stubbins. Red Star, beaten 6-1 by Paris St Germain in their last outing and without away support as the club served the second of a two-match ban on travelling fans, posed little threat in a subdued atmosphere. Yet Liverpool were still able to produce enough quality to comfortably pick up the three points and, with PSG and Napoli drawing 2-2, they now top the group with six points, one more than Napoli and two ahead of the French champions. "When the game calmed down we played football and created chances - it was a really good game and I enjoyed it a lot," said Klopp. "It was a good football game and a deserved win." Firmino set Liverpool, beaten at Napoli in their previous game, on their way in the 20th minute with an emphatic finish after a smart pull back from Andy Robertson found the Brazilian in space in the box. Swiss international Xherdan Shaqiri, busy and creative throughout, fed Salah for Liverpool's second on the stroke of halftime, the Egyptian firing home from inside the box. Red Star had threatened little and Liverpool put the game beyond them six minutes after the interval when Filip Stojkovic stuck out an arm to block Mane and Salah blasted home the penalty for his landmark goal. There has been talk of Salah struggling for form this season and while he still looks a little short of full sharpness, six goals in 13 games in all competitions is no mean return. Mane then missed another penalty, his shot pushed on to the bar by Red Star keeper Milan Borjan, before making amends with a close-range finish in the 80th minute. Substitute Adam Lallana could have made it five when he burst through alone from the halfway line but Canada international Borjan denied him.

Salah strikes twice to make it 50 as Liverpool beat Red Star

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has called on the Anfield crowd to make the difference during his side's Champions League clash at home to Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday.

Liverpool won their opening Group C encounter 3-2 at home to Paris St-Germain but suffered a late away defeat by Napoli in their last match in Europe's elite club competition.

The Merseyside club sit second in the group on three points along with PSG and a point behind Napoli with only the top two teams going through to the knockout stage.

In his news conference on Tuesday, Klopp said the atmosphere at Anfield -- where the fans in the Kop stand are famous for getting behind the team -- could be Liverpool's secret weapon.

"We need to be ready for a really hard fight," he told reporters. "We need to be ready to fight for every little square of space with all we have and we need the crowd.

"We learned last year that the atmosphere can make the difference and we have to make sure of that again. It's a really hard group for all the teams and we have to make sure we make the next step against a really good side."

Red Star are bottom of the section but held Napoli 0-0 in their opener. Liverpool face the 1991 European Cup winners twice in the next two weeks looking to steal a march on their rivals.

Despite Liverpool's favourites tag in those games, Klopp did not expect an easy task against a club making their first bow in the group stage since going out as holders 26 years ago.

"They are the top team in Serbia and they bring confidence with them. They are used to winningfootball&nbsp;games and we have to make sure they cannot come in that mood," the German said.

"You can see that they live their big dream... this generation has come through (to the group stage) like a miracle and now they want to extend it. That's how I would motivate my boys if it was about that and that's what makes them dangerous."

Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita will not feature in Wednesday's clash due to injury but forward Sadio Mane is available after recovering from surgery on a hand injury picked up on international duty with Senegal.

"Sadio looked good in training in the last two days. So if nothing happens he is in contention," he said.

Captain Henderson came off at halftime in Saturday's Premier League win at Huddersfield Town with a hamstring problem and Keita suffered a similar issue this month on duty with Guinea.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has called on the Anfield crowd to make the difference during his side's Champions League clash at home to Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has called on the Anfield crowd to make the difference during his side's Champions League clash at home to Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday. Liverpool won their opening Group C encounter 3-2 at home to Paris St-Germain but suffered a late away defeat by Napoli in their last match in Europe's elite club competition. The Merseyside club sit second in the group on three points along with PSG and a point behind Napoli with only the top two teams going through to the knockout stage. In his news conference on Tuesday, Klopp said the atmosphere at Anfield -- where the fans in the Kop stand are famous for getting behind the team -- could be Liverpool's secret weapon. "We need to be ready for a really hard fight," he told reporters. "We need to be ready to fight for every little square of space with all we have and we need the crowd. "We learned last year that the atmosphere can make the difference and we have to make sure of that again. It's a really hard group for all the teams and we have to make sure we make the next step against a really good side." Red Star are bottom of the section but held Napoli 0-0 in their opener. Liverpool face the 1991 European Cup winners twice in the next two weeks looking to steal a march on their rivals. Despite Liverpool's favourites tag in those games, Klopp did not expect an easy task against a club making their first bow in the group stage since going out as holders 26 years ago. "They are the top team in Serbia and they bring confidence with them. They are used to winningfootball games and we have to make sure they cannot come in that mood," the German said. "You can see that they live their big dream... this generation has come through (to the group stage) like a miracle and now they want to extend it. That's how I would motivate my boys if it was about that and that's what makes them dangerous." Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita will not feature in Wednesday's clash due to injury but forward Sadio Mane is available after recovering from surgery on a hand injury picked up on international duty with Senegal. "Sadio looked good in training in the last two days. So if nothing happens he is in contention," he said. Captain Henderson came off at halftime in Saturday's Premier League win at Huddersfield Town with a hamstring problem and Keita suffered a similar issue this month on duty with Guinea.

Juergen Klopp looks to Kop to inspire his players in Europe

Lorenzo Insigne’s 90th-minute winner gave Napoli a deserved 1-0 Champions League victory over Liverpool on Wednesday that saw the Italians move to the top of Group C.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a dominant performance against a muted Liverpool team that failed to muster a single shot on target in a Champions League game for the first time since a 1-0 defeat to Benfica in February 2006.

Napoli top the group with four points, while Liverpool are level on three with Paris St Germain, who they beat 3-2 at Anfield in their opening game. Red Star Belgrade are bottom with one point.

The visitors were dealt a blow inside the opening 20 minutes when midfielder Naby Keita was taken off on a stretcher on his Champions League debut for Liverpool, and Napoli had the better of the first half with Insigne shooting wide and Arkadiusz Milik forcing a save from Alisson Becker.

Poland striker Milik again stung the palms of Alisson early in the second half as Napoli grew in confidence.

They went close to taking the lead with 10 minutes remaining when substitute Dries Mertens met a cross from Mario Rui and volleyed off the crossbar from six metres.

The pressure paid off in the 90th minute as Insigne scored a deserved winning goal, stretching to tap in a low cross from Jose Callejon.

“It’s wonderful to win like this, but we had a great performance as a team and wanted the result at all costs,” Insigne told Sky Italia.

"Now we’ll enjoy this victory for a little bit...

"We know it’s a difficult group, we always did, but we want to make our mark in every game and put any opponent under pressure."

Liverpool face Red Star at Anfield next and Napoli travel to Paris to play PSG on Oct. 24.

Lorenzo Insigne’s 90th-minute winner gave Napoli a deserved 1-0 Champions League victory over Liverpool on Wednesday that saw the Italians move to the top of Group C.

Lorenzo Insigne’s 90th-minute winner gave Napoli a deserved 1-0 Champions League victory over Liverpool on Wednesday that saw the Italians move to the top of Group C. Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a dominant performance against a muted Liverpool team that failed to muster a single shot on target in a Champions League game for the first time since a 1-0 defeat to Benfica in February 2006. Napoli top the group with four points, while Liverpool are level on three with Paris St Germain, who they beat 3-2 at Anfield in their opening game. Red Star Belgrade are bottom with one point. The visitors were dealt a blow inside the opening 20 minutes when midfielder Naby Keita was taken off on a stretcher on his Champions League debut for Liverpool, and Napoli had the better of the first half with Insigne shooting wide and Arkadiusz Milik forcing a save from Alisson Becker. Poland striker Milik again stung the palms of Alisson early in the second half as Napoli grew in confidence. They went close to taking the lead with 10 minutes remaining when substitute Dries Mertens met a cross from Mario Rui and volleyed off the crossbar from six metres. The pressure paid off in the 90th minute as Insigne scored a deserved winning goal, stretching to tap in a low cross from Jose Callejon. “It’s wonderful to win like this, but we had a great performance as a team and wanted the result at all costs,” Insigne told Sky Italia. "Now we’ll enjoy this victory for a little bit... "We know it’s a difficult group, we always did, but we want to make our mark in every game and put any opponent under pressure." Liverpool face Red Star at Anfield next and Napoli travel to Paris to play PSG on Oct. 24.

Champions League: Late winner sends Napoli top with victory over Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita was taken to hospital after injuring his back during Liverpool's 1-0 defeat at Napoli on Wednesday

Keita, who joined from RB Leipzig for £48m this summer, was taken off on a stretcher after just 19 minutes of the game.

He received treatment on the pitch in Italy before being substituted.

According to the club, Keita underwent a number of precautionary health checks to assess his actual condition. 
&nbsp; 
No decision has yet been taken on when the 23-year-old will be discharged.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Keita was in 'severe pain' - but he isn't ruled out of Sunday.<a href="https://t.co/H94sikYoom">https://t.co/H94sikYoom</a>
— Liverpool FC News (@LivEchoLFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LivEchoLFC/status/1047724245382512640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Keita has made nine appearances for Liverpool this season, including four starts in the Premier League.

Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita was taken to hospital after injuring his back during Liverpool's 1-0 defeat at Napoli on Wednesday Keita, who joined from RB Leipzig for £48m this summer, was taken off on a stretcher after just 19 minutes of the game.

Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita was taken to hospital after injuring his back during Liverpool's 1-0 defeat at Napoli on Wednesday Keita, who joined from RB Leipzig for £48m this summer, was taken off on a stretcher after just 19 minutes of the game. He received treatment on the pitch in Italy before being substituted. According to the club, Keita underwent a number of precautionary health checks to assess his actual condition. No decision has yet been taken on when the 23-year-old will be discharged. Keita was in 'severe pain' - but he isn't ruled out of Sunday.https://t.co/H94sikYoom — Liverpool FC News (@LivEchoLFC) October 4, 2018 × Keita has made nine appearances for Liverpool this season, including four starts in the Premier League.

Naby Keita in hospital after complaining of back pain during Liverpool's defeat to Napoli

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Dries Mertens gave Napoli an early lead before Ronaldo provided a pinpoint cross for Mario Mandzukic to head in the equaliser and then set up an easy second for the Croat when his shot hit the post.

Ronaldo's goalbound header also provided the third Juve goal for Leonardo Bonucci after Napoli had left back Mario Rui sent off for a petulant kick at Paulo Dybala.

AS Roma upset the form book with a 3-1 derby win over neighbours Lazio, who had won their last five games in all competitions, while Inter Milan beat Cagliari 2-0 to notch their third league win in a row.

Leaders Juventus, aiming for an eighth title in a row, have 21 points from seven games, six clear of last season's runners-up Napoli. Sassuolo and Inter have 13 points followed by Lazio in fifth place on 12 and Roma in sixth on 11.

"Ronaldo is enjoying himself," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. "He has integrated very well. His precision in the passing moves is exceptional. I think this was his best match of the season."

Piotr Zielinski fired against the post after six minutes as Napoli made a bright start and they were rewarded four minutes later.

Bonucci's risky diagonal ball out of defence was intercepted by Allan who quickly found Jose Callejon and the Spaniard laid the ball off for Mertens to tap in.

Juventus needed a piece of Ronaldo brilliance to get back into the game in the 26th minute. The Portuguese twisted and turned past Elseid Hysaj and then dropped a perfect cross onto the head of Mandzukic who powered a downward effort past David Ospina.

Ospina then got down well to stop a Ronaldo free kick and did even better to block the rebound to prevent Juve getting a quick second.

Four minutes after halftime, Ronaldo collected the ball on the edge of the area, fired a shot against the post and Mandzukic followed up to turn the rebound into the net.

Mario Rui was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at Dybala and, although it seemed a fair decision, the Napoli players were enraged by the Argentine's theatrical reaction.

Napoli threatened an equaliser when Callejon got through but his shot was blocked by Wojciech Szczesny and Bonucci wrapped up the game, tapping in Ronaldo's header at the far post following a corner in the 75th minute.

Ronaldo could have had a goal himself but fired a shot into the side-netting after getting clear of the defence.

"We played well for the first 20 minutes, then our opponents took control of the game," said Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We need to continue improving. We will be competitive right until the end."

Rome overcame their poor start to the season by beating Lazio for the seventh time in their last nine meetings.

Lorenzo Pellegrini back-heeled Roma ahead on the stroke of halftime, shortly after replacing the injured Javier Pastore.

But an awful mistake by Roma defender Federico Fazio allowed Lazio back into the match. The Argentine was dispossessed as he tried to dribble around Ciro Immobile, who ran on to fire the ball wide of Patrick Olsen for his first goal in a Rome derby.

But Roma were back in front within four minutes when Aleksandar Kolarov fired the free kick through a huge hole in the Lazio wall.

Defender Fazio completed the win, and atoned for his earlier mistake, by meeting a free kick with a towering header to score four minutes from time.

Argentine forward Lautaro Gonzalez headed Inter in front after 12 minutes at San Siro, his first goal for the club since his move from Racing Club, and Matteo Politano volleyed the second in the 89th minute.

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team's goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1 in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash on Saturday to maintain their perfect start to the season. Dries Mertens gave Napoli an early lead before Ronaldo provided a pinpoint cross for Mario Mandzukic to head in the equaliser and then set up an easy second for the Croat when his shot hit the post. Ronaldo's goalbound header also provided the third Juve goal for Leonardo Bonucci after Napoli had left back Mario Rui sent off for a petulant kick at Paulo Dybala. AS Roma upset the form book with a 3-1 derby win over neighbours Lazio, who had won their last five games in all competitions, while Inter Milan beat Cagliari 2-0 to notch their third league win in a row. Leaders Juventus, aiming for an eighth title in a row, have 21 points from seven games, six clear of last season's runners-up Napoli. Sassuolo and Inter have 13 points followed by Lazio in fifth place on 12 and Roma in sixth on 11. "Ronaldo is enjoying himself," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. "He has integrated very well. His precision in the passing moves is exceptional. I think this was his best match of the season." Piotr Zielinski fired against the post after six minutes as Napoli made a bright start and they were rewarded four minutes later. Bonucci's risky diagonal ball out of defence was intercepted by Allan who quickly found Jose Callejon and the Spaniard laid the ball off for Mertens to tap in. Juventus needed a piece of Ronaldo brilliance to get back into the game in the 26th minute. The Portuguese twisted and turned past Elseid Hysaj and then dropped a perfect cross onto the head of Mandzukic who powered a downward effort past David Ospina. Ospina then got down well to stop a Ronaldo free kick and did even better to block the rebound to prevent Juve getting a quick second. Four minutes after halftime, Ronaldo collected the ball on the edge of the area, fired a shot against the post and Mandzukic followed up to turn the rebound into the net. Mario Rui was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at Dybala and, although it seemed a fair decision, the Napoli players were enraged by the Argentine's theatrical reaction. Napoli threatened an equaliser when Callejon got through but his shot was blocked by Wojciech Szczesny and Bonucci wrapped up the game, tapping in Ronaldo's header at the far post following a corner in the 75th minute. Ronaldo could have had a goal himself but fired a shot into the side-netting after getting clear of the defence. "We played well for the first 20 minutes, then our opponents took control of the game," said Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. "We need to continue improving. We will be competitive right until the end." Rome overcame their poor start to the season by beating Lazio for the seventh time in their last nine meetings. Lorenzo Pellegrini back-heeled Roma ahead on the stroke of halftime, shortly after replacing the injured Javier Pastore. But an awful mistake by Roma defender Federico Fazio allowed Lazio back into the match. The Argentine was dispossessed as he tried to dribble around Ciro Immobile, who ran on to fire the ball wide of Patrick Olsen for his first goal in a Rome derby. But Roma were back in front within four minutes when Aleksandar Kolarov fired the free kick through a huge hole in the Lazio wall. Defender Fazio completed the win, and atoned for his earlier mistake, by meeting a free kick with a towering header to score four minutes from time. Argentine forward Lautaro Gonzalez headed Inter in front after 12 minutes at San Siro, his first goal for the club since his move from Racing Club, and Matteo Politano volleyed the second in the 89th minute.

Ronaldo sets up all three goals as Juve beat Napoli

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich.

When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players.

When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence 
 
?? <a href="https://twitter.com/SerieA_TIM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SerieA_TIM</a> <a href="https://t.co/aH6DrKQeWG">pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG</a>
— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) <a href="https://twitter.com/en_sscnapoli/status/988131785300201472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse.

We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences.

Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Seria A teams took part in a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women

SS Napoli defeated Juventus in a dramatic fashion as Kalidou Koulibaly scored with a header in the 89th minute and stunned Serie A leaders Juventus on Sunday at Allianz Arena, Munich. When the match started, players from both the team had red stripes on their cheek. Not only Juventus and Napoli players, but this trend was actively promoted this weekend by all Serie A players. When the players entered the field with red marks on their face then the fans and spectators were surprised but after some time, the commentators revealed that it is a part of a social media campaign to create awareness against violence to women. The players are sporting red marks on their face in support of a campaign against domestic violence ?? @SerieA_TIM pic.twitter.com/aH6DrKQeWG — Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) April 22, 2018 × The players were expressing solidarity with victims of domestic abuse. We World Onlus, a humanitarian organisation teamed up with Serie A players to promote the campaign worldwide. So far, the campaign has been very successful in reaching worldwide audiences. Also, the players should be applauded for taking part&nbspand encouraging the campaign even in the crucial matches.

Here is why Buffon, Dybala and other players were playing with red mark on their cheeks

Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri was captured showing the "middle finger"&nbsp;to Juventus fans ahead of Napoli and Juventus clash on Sunday.

When the team bus of Napoli arrived at the Allianz Arena in Munich it was surrounded by Juventus fans and a group of people who allegedly spit&nbsp;on Nalopi team bus.

"I replied to a group of people who were spitting at the bus and insulting us for being Neapolitan," said Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri on the alleged unethical behaviour.

He also mentioned that, "I would never make a gesture like that towards anyone for being a Juventus fan."

"The vast majority of Juventus fans are wonderful people and there was one in our hotel who we had a good laugh and joke with."&nbsp;

Watch the video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri showing his middle finger to the Juventus fans who were insulting him ?<a href="https://t.co/t7LSdBzwQJ">pic.twitter.com/t7LSdBzwQJ</a>
— Ahmed Wagih (@Ahmed__Wagih) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ahmed__Wagih/status/988117752132046854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After winning the match 1-0 to Juventus, Sarri said that he replied to a group of people who were spitting and insulting the Napoli team. He also mentioned that he was not targeting Juve fans.

Maurizio Sarri was spotted giving the middle finger to a group of Juventus fans on Sunday

Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri was captured showing the "middle finger" to Juventus fans ahead of Napoli and Juventus clash on Sunday. When the team bus of Napoli arrived at the Allianz Arena in Munich it was surrounded by Juventus fans and a group of people who allegedly spit on Nalopi team bus. "I replied to a group of people who were spitting at the bus and insulting us for being Neapolitan," said Napoli manager Maurizio Sarri on the alleged unethical behaviour. He also mentioned that, "I would never make a gesture like that towards anyone for being a Juventus fan." "The vast majority of Juventus fans are wonderful people and there was one in our hotel who we had a good laugh and joke with." Watch the video: Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri showing his middle finger to the Juventus fans who were insulting him ?pic.twitter.com/t7LSdBzwQJ — Ahmed Wagih (@Ahmed__Wagih) April 22, 2018 × After winning the match 1-0 to Juventus, Sarri said that he replied to a group of people who were spitting and insulting the Napoli team. He also mentioned that he was not targeting Juve fans.

Caught on camera: Napoli manager Sarri's obscene gesture at Juventus fans

Napoli went down 3-1 at home to RB Leipzig, Arsenal and AC Milan enjoyed comfortable away wins, and Borussia Dortmund&#39;s Michy Batshuayi scored twice to secure a 3-2 victory in Europa League last 32, first leg action on Thursday.

Italian league leaders Napoli went ahead against Leipzig but slumped to a 3-1 defeat after a Timo Werner brace, Arsenal overcame Sweden&#39;s Ostersunds 3-0 helped by an own goal and Milan won by the same score against Bulgarian champions Ludogorets.

Batshuayi took his tally to five goals in three games since joining Dortmund on loan from Chelsea, with his double against Atalanta hauling the Germans side back from 2-1 down after Josip Ilicic scored twice in five minutes for the Italians.

Nice striker Mario Balotelli also scored two goals against Lokomotiv Moscow only to be upstaged by a Manuel Fernandes hat-trick as the visitors hit back to win 3-2.

Twice former winners Atletico Madrid recovered from an early fright to win 4-1 at FC Copenhagen as Saul Niguez, Kevin Gameiro, Antoine Griezmann and Vitolo shared the goals after Victor Fischer had put the Danish side in front.

FCSB, formerly Steaua Bucharest, beat Lazio 1-0 and Celtic overcame Zenit St Petersburg by the same score.

Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri has made it clear that his priority lies in Serie A and a disappointingly sparse crowd turned up for the visit of Leipzig.

Adam Ounas gave Napoli the lead early in the second half, the Algerian&#39;s first goal for the club, but the away side made the most of shoddy defending to turn the game around.

Werner levelled with an opportunist finish, then Bruma finished off a counter-attack and Werner added another in stoppage time as Napoli were again caught on the break.

Best Hope

Arsenal&#39;s Nacho Monreal and Mesut Ozil were on target at Ostersunds either side of a Sotirios Papagiannopoulos own goal.

Like the Londoners, Milan&#39;s best hope of Champions League football next season appears to be by winning the Europa League. Patrick Cutrone, a Ricardo Rodriguez penalty and Fabio Borini gave them an impressive win at Bulgarian champions Ludogorets.

Balotelli took his tally to 21 goals this term for Nice, where he is in his second season enjoying a new lease of life.

The maverick Italian slotted home after four minutes and converted a penalty in the 28th, sending Lokomotiv keeper Guilherme the wrong way after a Nemanja Pejcinovic handball.

Not to be outdone, Fernandes replied with a penalty before halftime and curled in a free kick to equalize in the 67th before completing his second Europa League hat-trick this term from Anton Miranchuk&#39;s cross.

Athletic Bilbao striker Aritz Aduriz, 37, scored twice in a 3-1 win at Spartak Moscow, while their Basque rivals Real Socieded were held 2-2 at home by Salzburg.

Sporting&#39;s Bruno Fernandes, Gelson Martins and Seydou Doumbia scored in an eight-minute spell after halftime as they came from behind to win 3-1 on Astana&#39;s artificial pitch in Kazakhstan where Marin Tomasov gave the hosts an early lead.

The roof was closed for the match with temperatures hovering around minus 20 Celsius outside.

&nbsp;

Napoli went down 3-1 at home to RB Leipzig, Arsenal and AC Milan enjoyed comfortable away wins, and Borussia Dortmund's Michy Batshuayi scored twice to secure a 3-2 victory in Europa League last 32, first leg

Napoli went down 3-1 at home to RB Leipzig, Arsenal and AC Milan enjoyed comfortable away wins, and Borussia Dortmund's Michy Batshuayi scored twice to secure a 3-2 victory in Europa League last 32, first leg action on Thursday. Italian league leaders Napoli went ahead against Leipzig but slumped to a 3-1 defeat after a Timo Werner brace, Arsenal overcame Sweden's Ostersunds 3-0 helped by an own goal and Milan won by the same score against Bulgarian champions Ludogorets. Batshuayi took his tally to five goals in three games since joining Dortmund on loan from Chelsea, with his double against Atalanta hauling the Germans side back from 2-1 down after Josip Ilicic scored twice in five minutes for the Italians. Nice striker Mario Balotelli also scored two goals against Lokomotiv Moscow only to be upstaged by a Manuel Fernandes hat-trick as the visitors hit back to win 3-2. Twice former winners Atletico Madrid recovered from an early fright to win 4-1 at FC Copenhagen as Saul Niguez, Kevin Gameiro, Antoine Griezmann and Vitolo shared the goals after Victor Fischer had put the Danish side in front. FCSB, formerly Steaua Bucharest, beat Lazio 1-0 and Celtic overcame Zenit St Petersburg by the same score. Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri has made it clear that his priority lies in Serie A and a disappointingly sparse crowd turned up for the visit of Leipzig. Adam Ounas gave Napoli the lead early in the second half, the Algerian's first goal for the club, but the away side made the most of shoddy defending to turn the game around. Werner levelled with an opportunist finish, then Bruma finished off a counter-attack and Werner added another in stoppage time as Napoli were again caught on the break. Best Hope Arsenal's Nacho Monreal and Mesut Ozil were on target at Ostersunds either side of a Sotirios Papagiannopoulos own goal. Like the Londoners, Milan's best hope of Champions League football next season appears to be by winning the Europa League. Patrick Cutrone, a Ricardo Rodriguez penalty and Fabio Borini gave them an impressive win at Bulgarian champions Ludogorets. Balotelli took his tally to 21 goals this term for Nice, where he is in his second season enjoying a new lease of life. The maverick Italian slotted home after four minutes and converted a penalty in the 28th, sending Lokomotiv keeper Guilherme the wrong way after a Nemanja Pejcinovic handball. Not to be outdone, Fernandes replied with a penalty before halftime and curled in a free kick to equalize in the 67th before completing his second Europa League hat-trick this term from Anton Miranchuk's cross. Athletic Bilbao striker Aritz Aduriz, 37, scored twice in a 3-1 win at Spartak Moscow, while their Basque rivals Real Socieded were held 2-2 at home by Salzburg. Sporting's Bruno Fernandes, Gelson Martins and Seydou Doumbia scored in an eight-minute spell after halftime as they came from behind to win 3-1 on Astana's artificial pitch in Kazakhstan where Marin Tomasov gave the hosts an early lead. The roof was closed for the match with temperatures hovering around minus 20 Celsius outside.

Europa League: Napoli lose at home, Arsenal and Milan win away

Sergio Aguero became Manchester City&#39;s all-time record scorer and was described as &quot;a legend&quot; by coach Pep Guardiola whose side booked their place in the Champions League last 16 with a 4-2 win at Napoli.

The 29-year-old Argentine beat the old mark of 177 set by Eric Brook in the 1930s when he hit City&#39;s third goal in Naples, then promised to give his shirt to his eight-year-old son Benjamin -- the grandson of Argentina and Napoli legend Diego Maradona.

&quot;This shirt is for my son, he texted me to say: &quot;As soon as you score, bring me the shirt&#39;,&quot; said Aguero.

&quot;I am bringing the shirt back to my son. My family called from Argentina, they were watching me.&quot;

Aguero&#39;s son was born from his marriage to Giannina Maradona, the daughter of Diego.

And Aguero achieved his new landmark at the San Paolo Stadium where Maradona made himself a Neapolitan icon between 1984 and 1991, winning two Serie A titles and the UEFA Cup.

&quot;What he (Aguero) has achieved has made him a legend, he&#39;s gone down in history, so I would tell him to enjoy,&quot; said Guardiola.

Aguero paid tribute to his team-mates for his record 178 goals.

&quot;I&#39;m very happy for this moment and happy because the team help support me and the fans.

&quot;I&#39;ll enjoy this moment because it only happens once.

&quot;Napoli are a good team and away always in the Champions League is difficult.&quot;

The Premier League leaders had needed just a point to seal their berth in the knockout rounds for the fifth consecutive year, with two games to go.&nbsp;

But City&#39;s fourth victory out of four in Group F confirmed their progress with 12 points.

Napoli are third, six points behind Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk who beat Dutch outfit Feyenoord 3-1, and are close to elimination from the elite European competition.

Record man&nbsp;

The new benchmark is just another for the man from Buenos Aires who joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 for &pound;38 million, scoring two goals and assisting one on his debut against Swansea.

He currently has the best goals-to-minutes ratio in Premier League history -- scoring 107 in 154 Premier League matches at a rate of a goal every 106 minutes.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old Argentine beat the old mark of 177 set by Eric Brook in the 1930s when he hit City's third goal in Naples, then promised to give his shirt to his eight-year-old son Benjamin -- the grandson of Argentina and Napoli legend Diego Maradona.

Sergio Aguero became Manchester City's all-time record scorer and was described as "a legend" by coach Pep Guardiola whose side booked their place in the Champions League last 16 with a 4-2 win at Napoli. The 29-year-old Argentine beat the old mark of 177 set by Eric Brook in the 1930s when he hit City's third goal in Naples, then promised to give his shirt to his eight-year-old son Benjamin -- the grandson of Argentina and Napoli legend Diego Maradona. "This shirt is for my son, he texted me to say: "As soon as you score, bring me the shirt'," said Aguero. "I am bringing the shirt back to my son. My family called from Argentina, they were watching me." Aguero's son was born from his marriage to Giannina Maradona, the daughter of Diego. And Aguero achieved his new landmark at the San Paolo Stadium where Maradona made himself a Neapolitan icon between 1984 and 1991, winning two Serie A titles and the UEFA Cup. "What he (Aguero) has achieved has made him a legend, he's gone down in history, so I would tell him to enjoy," said Guardiola. Aguero paid tribute to his team-mates for his record 178 goals. "I'm very happy for this moment and happy because the team help support me and the fans. "I'll enjoy this moment because it only happens once. "Napoli are a good team and away always in the Champions League is difficult." The Premier League leaders had needed just a point to seal their berth in the knockout rounds for the fifth consecutive year, with two games to go. But City's fourth victory out of four in Group F confirmed their progress with 12 points. Napoli are third, six points behind Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk who beat Dutch outfit Feyenoord 3-1, and are close to elimination from the elite European competition. Record man The new benchmark is just another for the man from Buenos Aires who joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2011 for £38 million, scoring two goals and assisting one on his debut against Swansea. He currently has the best goals-to-minutes ratio in Premier League history -- scoring 107 in 154 Premier League matches at a rate of a goal every 106 minutes.

Football: Aguero's son, Maradona's grandson, proud owner of record shirt

Manchester City beat Napoli 2-1 in their Champions League Group F match on Tuesday, maintaining their 100 percent record after three games, but Pep Guardiola&#39;s side were forced to hang on despite going 2-0 up inside 13 minutes.

City started as they left off in their 7-2 crushing of Stoke City in the Premier League on Saturday, attacking with a speed and fluency which the Serie A leaders struggled to cope with.

Raheem Sterling put the home side ahead in the ninth minute, finishing with his left foot after Kyle Walker&#39;s attempt to convert a David Silva pull-back was blocked.

Four minutes later, the in-form Kevin De Bruyne created the second, powering down the right flank and delivering a pinpoint low cross to Gabriel Jesus who made no mistake.

The Premier League leaders were producing wave after wave of attacks and the appreciative crowd sensed that this could be another massacre.

Belgian midfielder De Bruyne fired a long-range shot against the bar in the 25th minute after a swift City counter-attack, and then Jesus had a goalbound effort cleared off the line by Kalidou Koulibaly.

But then City began to lose focus, sloppily giving the ball away in dangerous positions, slowing down their breaks, and Napoli sensed that the game might not be just about damage limitation.

The Italians had an opportunity to narrow the deficit in the 38th minute after Kyle Walker gave away a penalty but City&#39;s Brazilian keeper Ederson produced a fine save to keep out Dries Mertens&#39; spot-kick.

After the break, Napoli grew into the game, with some clever touches and smart movement troubling the City defence and John Stones needed to use his midriff to stop a Marek Hamsik shot that was heading for an open goal.

Napoli&#39;s reward came when they got a second chance from the spot in the 73rd minute, this time Amadou Diawara firing home after Faouzi Ghoujlam was tripped by Fernandinho.

Despite some late pressure from Maurizio Sarri&#39;s side, City showed some grit as they held on to secure their third straight win which leaves them on top of the group with nine points.

&quot;We knew they played patient football and had attacking threat. We knew it would be tough but we wanted to play our football,&quot; said City defender John Stones.

&quot;At times it was great to watch. I am upset to concede the goal we did but overall ... a great team performance. We have put ourselves in a good position (in the group). There are a lot of games to play still. This was a good test to see where we are at,&quot; he added.

Napoli are third on three points, trailing second-placed Shakhtar Donetsk who are on six.

Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri said City are now at par with Barca and Real

Manchester City beat Napoli 2-1 in their Champions League Group F match on Tuesday, maintaining their 100 percent record after three games, but Pep Guardiola's side were forced to hang on despite going 2-0 up inside 13 minutes. City started as they left off in their 7-2 crushing of Stoke City in the Premier League on Saturday, attacking with a speed and fluency which the Serie A leaders struggled to cope with. Raheem Sterling put the home side ahead in the ninth minute, finishing with his left foot after Kyle Walker's attempt to convert a David Silva pull-back was blocked. Four minutes later, the in-form Kevin De Bruyne created the second, powering down the right flank and delivering a pinpoint low cross to Gabriel Jesus who made no mistake. The Premier League leaders were producing wave after wave of attacks and the appreciative crowd sensed that this could be another massacre. Belgian midfielder De Bruyne fired a long-range shot against the bar in the 25th minute after a swift City counter-attack, and then Jesus had a goalbound effort cleared off the line by Kalidou Koulibaly. But then City began to lose focus, sloppily giving the ball away in dangerous positions, slowing down their breaks, and Napoli sensed that the game might not be just about damage limitation. The Italians had an opportunity to narrow the deficit in the 38th minute after Kyle Walker gave away a penalty but City's Brazilian keeper Ederson produced a fine save to keep out Dries Mertens' spot-kick. After the break, Napoli grew into the game, with some clever touches and smart movement troubling the City defence and John Stones needed to use his midriff to stop a Marek Hamsik shot that was heading for an open goal. Napoli's reward came when they got a second chance from the spot in the 73rd minute, this time Amadou Diawara firing home after Faouzi Ghoujlam was tripped by Fernandinho. Despite some late pressure from Maurizio Sarri's side, City showed some grit as they held on to secure their third straight win which leaves them on top of the group with nine points. "We knew they played patient football and had attacking threat. We knew it would be tough but we wanted to play our football," said City defender John Stones. "At times it was great to watch. I am upset to concede the goal we did but overall ... a great team performance. We have put ourselves in a good position (in the group). There are a lot of games to play still. This was a good test to see where we are at," he added. Napoli are third on three points, trailing second-placed Shakhtar Donetsk who are on six.

Champions League: City make it three out of three with win over Napoli

Vincent Aboubakar headed a late goal, his second of the game, to give Besiktas a shock 3-2 win away at Napoli in the Champions League after the Serie A team had twice come from behind and missed a penalty along the way.

An early goal by Adriano gave Besiktas the lead, Dries Mertens equalised on the half hour and Aboubakar put the Turkish side back in front before halftime in the Group B game.

Lorenzo Insigne&#39;s penalty was saved by Fabricio in the 50th minute but Napoli were awarded another spot kick 19 minutes later and substitute Manolo Gabbiadini converted.

Gabbiadini also had a goal disallowed for offside before Aboubakar got behind the Napoli defence to head home in the 86th minute, leaving Napoli with six points in Group B and the Turkish side with five.

Napoli, beaten in their last two games, fielded Mertens as a false number nine to replace injured striker Arkadiusz Milik.

The Belgian had two early chances but Besiktas went ahead with their first chance in the 12th minute when the unmarked Adriano turned in Ricardo Quaresma&#39;s low cross at the far post.

Mertens levelled from close range after half an hour, only for Aboubakar to pounce on a dreadful pass from Christian Maggio and plant his shot past Pepe Reina.

Napoli were awarded their first penalty soon after halftime but Insigne saw his shot saved by Fabricio. However, substitute Gabbiadini, who replaced Insigne shortly afterwards, made no mistake from another spot kick in the 69th minute.

Napoli seemed poised to take all three points but instead the Cameroonian Aboubakar snatched an unlikely win for Besiktas. 
 
(Reuters)

Aboubakar gave Besiktas a shock 3-2 win in the Champions League match

Vincent Aboubakar headed a late goal, his second of the game, to give Besiktas a shock 3-2 win away at Napoli in the Champions League after the Serie A team had twice come from behind and missed a penalty along the way. An early goal by Adriano gave Besiktas the lead, Dries Mertens equalised on the half hour and Aboubakar put the Turkish side back in front before halftime in the Group B game. Lorenzo Insigne's penalty was saved by Fabricio in the 50th minute but Napoli were awarded another spot kick 19 minutes later and substitute Manolo Gabbiadini converted. Gabbiadini also had a goal disallowed for offside before Aboubakar got behind the Napoli defence to head home in the 86th minute, leaving Napoli with six points in Group B and the Turkish side with five. Napoli, beaten in their last two games, fielded Mertens as a false number nine to replace injured striker Arkadiusz Milik. The Belgian had two early chances but Besiktas went ahead with their first chance in the 12th minute when the unmarked Adriano turned in Ricardo Quaresma's low cross at the far post. Mertens levelled from close range after half an hour, only for Aboubakar to pounce on a dreadful pass from Christian Maggio and plant his shot past Pepe Reina. Napoli were awarded their first penalty soon after halftime but Insigne saw his shot saved by Fabricio. However, substitute Gabbiadini, who replaced Insigne shortly afterwards, made no mistake from another spot kick in the 69th minute. Napoli seemed poised to take all three points but instead the Cameroonian Aboubakar snatched an unlikely win for Besiktas. (Reuters)

Aboubakar gives Besiktas dramatic win over Napoli

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

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

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

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain joins Juventus for $99 million

napoli

Napoli, News on Napoli, stories on Napoli, articles on Napoli, Napoli stories at Wion, Napoli news, Napoli latest news