A Brazilian gay rights activist has filed a criminal complaint against Neymar for homophobia, after the football superstar called his mother's boyfriend an anti-gay slur in comments leaked to the media.

The Sao Paulo prosecutor's office confirmed to AFP it had received the complaint, which it must now examine to decide whether to open a case against the Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil star.

Neymar's communications team declined to comment on the complaint.

The case was brought by activist Agripino Magalhaes, who said on Instagram he planned to press charges against Neymar and his friends for "criminal homophobia, hate speech and death threats" over comments made in a private conversation on a gaming site.

In the audio recording, Neymar, 28, can be heard using slurs against his mother's new boyfriend, Tiago Ramos, as he and his friends discuss a supposed fight between the couple.

Ramos, 22, and Neymar's mother, Nadine Goncalves, 52, announced in April they were dating.

Brazil's tabloid press was soon running lurid stories about Ramos, a model who is openly bisexual.

Neymar and his friends were discussing rumors that the new couple had had a violent fight, after Ramos was hospitalized last Tuesday with arm wounds sustained at Goncalves's house, according to police.

Neymar said his mother had lied to her family, indicating he did not believe her story that Ramos had tripped on the stairs and cut himself on a pane of glass.

One of his friends can be heard saying that they should assault Ramos with a broomstick in the anus.

Neighbors reportedly said they heard screaming from a fight at Goncalves's house the night Ramos was injured.

However, Neymar's communications team said Ramos and Goncalves had testified before police that the incident was a "domestic accident."

A Brazilian gay rights activist has filed a criminal complaint against Neymar for homophobia, after the football superstar called his mother's boyfriend an anti-gay slur in comments leaked to the media.

A Brazilian gay rights activist has filed a criminal complaint against Neymar for homophobia, after the football superstar called his mother's boyfriend an anti-gay slur in comments leaked to the media. The Sao Paulo prosecutor's office confirmed to AFP it had received the complaint, which it must now examine to decide whether to open a case against the Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil star. Neymar's communications team declined to comment on the complaint. The case was brought by activist Agripino Magalhaes, who said on Instagram he planned to press charges against Neymar and his friends for "criminal homophobia, hate speech and death threats" over comments made in a private conversation on a gaming site. In the audio recording, Neymar, 28, can be heard using slurs against his mother's new boyfriend, Tiago Ramos, as he and his friends discuss a supposed fight between the couple. Ramos, 22, and Neymar's mother, Nadine Goncalves, 52, announced in April they were dating. Brazil's tabloid press was soon running lurid stories about Ramos, a model who is openly bisexual. Neymar and his friends were discussing rumors that the new couple had had a violent fight, after Ramos was hospitalized last Tuesday with arm wounds sustained at Goncalves's house, according to police. Neymar said his mother had lied to her family, indicating he did not believe her story that Ramos had tripped on the stairs and cut himself on a pane of glass. One of his friends can be heard saying that they should assault Ramos with a broomstick in the anus. Neighbors reportedly said they heard screaming from a fight at Goncalves's house the night Ramos was injured. However, Neymar's communications team said Ramos and Goncalves had testified before police that the incident was a "domestic accident."

Neymar faces criminal complaint for homophobia

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, was approved to receive a $120 welfare payment meant for low-paid Brazilian workers affected by the coronavirus pandemic, in an apparent case of identity theft, a report said Thursday.

The Paris Saint-Germain star's name, date of birth and Brazilian ID number were used to register for the 600-real stimulus payment from the federal government, news site UOL reported.

The emergency payments are meant to help Brazilians employed in the informal sector -- such as cleaners or cooks -- whose jobs and incomes have evaporated with stay-at-home measures to contain the virus.

With a contract at PSG, estimated earnings of $95.5 million this year and the record for most expensive football transfer in history, at 222 million euros, Neymar does not qualify.

Yet according to UOL, the application in his name "was initially approved and scheduled for payment... before being frozen and placed 'under evaluation' due to indications it failed to meet the requirements."

The striker's communications staff did not immediately respond to a request for comment from AFP.

UOL reported his staff said Neymar "obviously never applied for this benefit, and does not know who would have done so."

Brazil is one of the countries hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. It has the third-highest death toll globally, at more than 34,000, behind only the US and Britain.

Neymar, 28, is riding out the pandemic at his luxury villa in Mangaratiba, a resort town outside Rio de Janeiro.

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, was approved to receive a $120 welfare payment meant for low-paid Brazilian workers affected by the coronavirus pandemic, in an apparent case of identity theft, a report said Thursday.

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, was approved to receive a $120 welfare payment meant for low-paid Brazilian workers affected by the coronavirus pandemic, in an apparent case of identity theft, a report said Thursday. The Paris Saint-Germain star's name, date of birth and Brazilian ID number were used to register for the 600-real stimulus payment from the federal government, news site UOL reported. The emergency payments are meant to help Brazilians employed in the informal sector -- such as cleaners or cooks -- whose jobs and incomes have evaporated with stay-at-home measures to contain the virus. With a contract at PSG, estimated earnings of $95.5 million this year and the record for most expensive football transfer in history, at 222 million euros, Neymar does not qualify. Yet according to UOL, the application in his name "was initially approved and scheduled for payment... before being frozen and placed 'under evaluation' due to indications it failed to meet the requirements." The striker's communications staff did not immediately respond to a request for comment from AFP. UOL reported his staff said Neymar "obviously never applied for this benefit, and does not know who would have done so." Brazil is one of the countries hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. It has the third-highest death toll globally, at more than 34,000, behind only the US and Britain. Neymar, 28, is riding out the pandemic at his luxury villa in Mangaratiba, a resort town outside Rio de Janeiro.

Neymar mistakenly approved for $120 virus welfare payment: report

A Brazilian judge has suspended Neymar's payment of a fine of 88 million reais ($16.28 million) to tax authorities for irregularities, notably in connection with his transfer to Barcelona in 2013.

The judge, Decio Gabriel Gimenez, at a court in Sao Paulo, suspended the payment of the fine "until further notice", on the grounds that the exact amount due to be paid by Neymar was not clarified.

According to Brazilian press reports, the state has already appealed the decision.

In September 2015, the Brazilian Treasury froze 188.8 million reais of the player's assets, due to unpaid taxes linked to his image rights from 2011 to 2013.

Neymar had left Brazilian side Santos for Barcelona in 2013.

The fine was reduced in 2017 after a tax appeals council quashed two of the five convictions.

The Paris Saint-Germain star, the world's most expensive footballer, agreed to pay a much smaller fine, before the treasury announced in 2018 that he still owed 88 million reais.

Neymar's transfer from Santos to Barca attracted the attention of Spanish authorities, who prosecuted the now-28-year-old and the La Liga giants for "fraud" and "corruption".

Barcelona officially said the transfer cost 57.1 million euros ($63.6 million), with 40 million euros going to Neymar's family and 17.1 million to Santos, but Spanish prosecutors later said it actually cost at least 83.3 million euros.

A Brazilian judge has suspended Neymar's payment of a fine of 88 million reais ($16.28 million) to tax authorities for irregularities, notably in connection with his transfer to Barcelona in 2013.

A Brazilian judge has suspended Neymar's payment of a fine of 88 million reais ($16.28 million) to tax authorities for irregularities, notably in connection with his transfer to Barcelona in 2013. The judge, Decio Gabriel Gimenez, at a court in Sao Paulo, suspended the payment of the fine "until further notice", on the grounds that the exact amount due to be paid by Neymar was not clarified. According to Brazilian press reports, the state has already appealed the decision. In September 2015, the Brazilian Treasury froze 188.8 million reais of the player's assets, due to unpaid taxes linked to his image rights from 2011 to 2013. Neymar had left Brazilian side Santos for Barcelona in 2013. The fine was reduced in 2017 after a tax appeals council quashed two of the five convictions. The Paris Saint-Germain star, the world's most expensive footballer, agreed to pay a much smaller fine, before the treasury announced in 2018 that he still owed 88 million reais. Neymar's transfer from Santos to Barca attracted the attention of Spanish authorities, who prosecuted the now-28-year-old and the La Liga giants for "fraud" and "corruption". Barcelona officially said the transfer cost 57.1 million euros ($63.6 million), with 40 million euros going to Neymar's family and 17.1 million to Santos, but Spanish prosecutors later said it actually cost at least 83.3 million euros.

Brazilian judge suspends Neymar's fine payment to tax authorities

What Messi, Neymar, Ramos are doing during coronavirus self-quarantine

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2.

The game was played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus fears. Still, there were fans outside the Parc des Princes stadium cheering for their team.

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🔥🗣️ 
 
❤️💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICICESTPARIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICICESTPARIS</a> <a href="https://t.co/FgbhCp2cRl">pic.twitter.com/FgbhCp2cRl</a>
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Neymar outshined Borussia's teen sensation, Erling Braut Haaland, by scoring in both the legs.

Neymar and Juan Bernat's first-half goals sealed a quarterfinals spot for the first time since 2016, PSG failed to make it to the last 8 despite spending heavily on transfers (Neymar and Mbappe).

More than 3,000 PSG fans gathered near the stadium as the match was played behind closed doors due to virus fears. France has been one of the countries infected by coronavirus, 2,281 people have been infected whereas 48 people have died due to the novel virus.

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🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️...and breathe 
 
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— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1237868680228159495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Fans gathered at the stadium after being granted by the police authorities, they lit fireworks chanting for the team. Chants could be heard during the match. A banner in the empty stadium read: "Our only virus is Paris SG."

The win for the French team was special as they faced a series of injuries before the match, losing out on their captain Thiago Silva. 
Silva was ruled out of the match after he did not fully recover from a hamstring injury.

Kylian Mbappe started from the bench due to sore throat.

Neymar's diving header in the 28th minute after a Di Maria free-kick marked his 35th goal in 57 matches for the club. Bernate doubled the lead by scoring in the 45+1 minutes.

Angel Di Maria picked up a yellow card after a brawl with Can in the last moments of the match, this means that he will be missing out the first leg of the quarterfinals in the Champions League.

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2.

Paris Saint Germain manage to overturn the scores in a reverse fixture against Borussia Dortmund in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16. The scores were 2-0 by the end of the game and the aggregate score was 3-2. The game was played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus fears. Still, there were fans outside the Parc des Princes stadium cheering for their team. 🔥🗣️ ❤️💙#ICICESTPARIS pic.twitter.com/FgbhCp2cRl — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) March 11, 2020 × Neymar outshined Borussia's teen sensation, Erling Braut Haaland, by scoring in both the legs. Neymar and Juan Bernat's first-half goals sealed a quarterfinals spot for the first time since 2016, PSG failed to make it to the last 8 despite spending heavily on transfers (Neymar and Mbappe). More than 3,000 PSG fans gathered near the stadium as the match was played behind closed doors due to virus fears. France has been one of the countries infected by coronavirus, 2,281 people have been infected whereas 48 people have died due to the novel virus. 🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️🧘‍♂️...and breathe 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/CGijCM0ct8 — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) March 11, 2020 × Fans gathered at the stadium after being granted by the police authorities, they lit fireworks chanting for the team. Chants could be heard during the match. A banner in the empty stadium read: "Our only virus is Paris SG." The win for the French team was special as they faced a series of injuries before the match, losing out on their captain Thiago Silva. Silva was ruled out of the match after he did not fully recover from a hamstring injury. Kylian Mbappe started from the bench due to sore throat. Neymar's diving header in the 28th minute after a Di Maria free-kick marked his 35th goal in 57 matches for the club. Bernate doubled the lead by scoring in the 45+1 minutes. Angel Di Maria picked up a yellow card after a brawl with Can in the last moments of the match, this means that he will be missing out the first leg of the quarterfinals in the Champions League.

Champions League: Neymar's dive knocks Dortmund out, PSG in quarterfinals

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday.

After Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Co lost 2-1 to an Erling Haaland-inspired Dortmund before a crowd of 80,000 in Germany last month, PSG discovered on Monday the second leg of their last-16 tie must be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Estimates put the financial hit to Qatar-owned PSG of playing the game without the presence of nearly 50,000 fans at the Parc des Princes in the region of six million euros ($6.9 million), while the president of the club's Ultras fans group has called on supporters to gather outside the stadium instead.

However, it is still possible the strange atmosphere will work in the home team's favour, removing some of the immense pressure on them.

Agitated supporters are restless at the thought of their team -- despite all the Qatari investment -- going out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the fourth year running.

Following the first-leg defeat, one banner targeted captain Thiago Silva and their two superstar forwards, asking: "Silva, Mbappe, Neymar, afraid of winning? Show some balls."

While PSG's record in France, where they are on course for a seventh Ligue 1 title in eight seasons, is excellent, it is also almost irrelevant. This is a club that begs to be judged on its performance in Europe.

They are the fifth-richest club in the world in the most recent Deloitte Football Money League, with 636 million euros in revenue last season, behind only Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

However, they have fallen at this hurdle in each of the last three seasons, often in farcical fashion.

In 2017 there was the capitulation in Barcelona, a 6-1 defeat following a 4-0 first-leg win. They then spent over 400 million euros to make Neymar and Mbappe the two most expensive signings in the world, but the Brazilian missed the second leg of the 2018 defeat by Madrid due to injury and then sat out both legs of an improbable exit to Manchester United last year.

In eight years since the Qatari takeover, PSG have beaten just three teams in Champions League knockout ties: Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen and Chelsea (twice).

In a recent interview with Canal Plus, sporting director Leonardo tried to take pressure off Thomas Tuchel's team before the Dortmund tie.

"It's not life or death. If we lose we will try again next year," he insisted. "We need to stop all the negativity. We have a fantastic team and fantastic players."

Nevertheless, it is worth pondering how what is essentially a vanity project can continue to be credible if PSG keep on losing the games that really matter.

The need to beat Dortmund is therefore critical, even in these mitigating circumstances, and the futures of both Neymar and Mbappe, forever linked to Real Madrid, could depend on it.

If they do reach a first quarter-final since 2016, the weight off their shoulders will be huge and might well be replaced by a realisation that winning the trophy for the first time is a real possibility.

Coach Tuchel is under contract until 2021 but, just like Unai Emery and Laurent Blanc before him, it is hard to see how he would survive another disappointing European showing.

Tuchel is also under pressure after a decision to radically change his team's formation for the first leg backfired badly.

He needs a big performance from Neymar, who wanted to leave last summer rather than stick around for a third season in Paris but was poor in Dortmund. Tuchel also needs Mbappe, scorer of 30 goals this season, to deliver on the night.

"He struggled against Dortmund. His reaction since then has been astounding, in every training session. He is decisive and he is in great form," Tuchel said recently, and he will hope that form continues at an eerily empty stadium on Wednesday.

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday.

Nothing ever seems to go to plan in the Champions League for Paris Saint-Germain, whose bid to avoid yet another exit in the first knockout round against Borussia Dortmund will be played out before an empty stadium on Wednesday. After Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Co lost 2-1 to an Erling Haaland-inspired Dortmund before a crowd of 80,000 in Germany last month, PSG discovered on Monday the second leg of their last-16 tie must be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak. Estimates put the financial hit to Qatar-owned PSG of playing the game without the presence of nearly 50,000 fans at the Parc des Princes in the region of six million euros ($6.9 million), while the president of the club's Ultras fans group has called on supporters to gather outside the stadium instead. However, it is still possible the strange atmosphere will work in the home team's favour, removing some of the immense pressure on them. Agitated supporters are restless at the thought of their team -- despite all the Qatari investment -- going out of the Champions League in the last 16 for the fourth year running. Following the first-leg defeat, one banner targeted captain Thiago Silva and their two superstar forwards, asking: "Silva, Mbappe, Neymar, afraid of winning? Show some balls." While PSG's record in France, where they are on course for a seventh Ligue 1 title in eight seasons, is excellent, it is also almost irrelevant. This is a club that begs to be judged on its performance in Europe. They are the fifth-richest club in the world in the most recent Deloitte Football Money League, with 636 million euros in revenue last season, behind only Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Bayern Munich. However, they have fallen at this hurdle in each of the last three seasons, often in farcical fashion. In 2017 there was the capitulation in Barcelona, a 6-1 defeat following a 4-0 first-leg win. They then spent over 400 million euros to make Neymar and Mbappe the two most expensive signings in the world, but the Brazilian missed the second leg of the 2018 defeat by Madrid due to injury and then sat out both legs of an improbable exit to Manchester United last year. In eight years since the Qatari takeover, PSG have beaten just three teams in Champions League knockout ties: Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen and Chelsea (twice). In a recent interview with Canal Plus, sporting director Leonardo tried to take pressure off Thomas Tuchel's team before the Dortmund tie. "It's not life or death. If we lose we will try again next year," he insisted. "We need to stop all the negativity. We have a fantastic team and fantastic players." Nevertheless, it is worth pondering how what is essentially a vanity project can continue to be credible if PSG keep on losing the games that really matter. The need to beat Dortmund is therefore critical, even in these mitigating circumstances, and the futures of both Neymar and Mbappe, forever linked to Real Madrid, could depend on it. If they do reach a first quarter-final since 2016, the weight off their shoulders will be huge and might well be replaced by a realisation that winning the trophy for the first time is a real possibility. Coach Tuchel is under contract until 2021 but, just like Unai Emery and Laurent Blanc before him, it is hard to see how he would survive another disappointing European showing. Tuchel is also under pressure after a decision to radically change his team's formation for the first leg backfired badly. He needs a big performance from Neymar, who wanted to leave last summer rather than stick around for a third season in Paris but was poor in Dortmund. Tuchel also needs Mbappe, scorer of 30 goals this season, to deliver on the night. "He struggled against Dortmund. His reaction since then has been astounding, in every training session. He is decisive and he is in great form," Tuchel said recently, and he will hope that form continues at an eerily empty stadium on Wednesday.

Champions League: PSG under pressure against Dortmund to keep Mbappe, Neymar project on track

Kylian Mbappe capped a brilliant individual performance by scoring twice and creating another for Mauro Icardi as leaders Paris St Germain cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory over Dijon in their Ligue 1 clash at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

With Neymar and Marco Veratti suspended and Thiago Silva missing with injury, PSG got off to the perfect start when midfielder Pablo Sarabia steered a mis-hit shot from Marquinhos past Runar Runarsson in the third minute to give them the lead.

Mbappe added a second in the 74th minute, timing his run perfectly to collect Julian Draxler's through ball before rounding Runarsson and slotting the ball through the arms of the diving goalkeeper.

He then set up Icardi for PSG's third three minutes later, sliding a perfectly-weighted pass into the path of the Argentinian striker for him to fire the ball home.

The 21-year-old completed his attacking masterclass with a second goal in stoppage time at the end of the game, rifling the ball past the helpless Runarsson to complete the 4-0 rout.

The win took PSG to 68 points from 27 games and restored their lead at the top of the table to 13 following second-placed Olympique de Marseille's 3-2 win over Nimes on Friday night. Dijon remains just above the relegation places with 27 points.

In the late kickoffs, Teji Savanier scored twice for Montpellier as they thumped Strasbourg 3-0 and Anger put some daylight between themselves and the relegation zone with a 1-0 win away to Brest.

Bottom side Toulouse slumped to a 2-0 defeat at home against Rennes while Amiens, who are second from bottom, lost 1-0 at home to Metz, with Farid Boulaya getting on the scoresheet for the visitors.

On the south coast, Monaco was held to a 1-1 draw with Reims when Wissam Ben Yedder's first-half penalty for the home side was cancelled out by a 58th-minute equaliser from Hassane Kamara.

Kylian Mbappe capped a brilliant individual performance by scoring twice and creating another for Mauro Icardi as leaders Paris St Germain cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory over Dijon in their Ligue 1 clash at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

Kylian Mbappe capped a brilliant individual performance by scoring twice and creating another for Mauro Icardi as leaders Paris St Germain cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory over Dijon in their Ligue 1 clash at the Parc des Princes on Saturday. With Neymar and Marco Veratti suspended and Thiago Silva missing with injury, PSG got off to the perfect start when midfielder Pablo Sarabia steered a mis-hit shot from Marquinhos past Runar Runarsson in the third minute to give them the lead. Mbappe added a second in the 74th minute, timing his run perfectly to collect Julian Draxler's through ball before rounding Runarsson and slotting the ball through the arms of the diving goalkeeper. He then set up Icardi for PSG's third three minutes later, sliding a perfectly-weighted pass into the path of the Argentinian striker for him to fire the ball home. The 21-year-old completed his attacking masterclass with a second goal in stoppage time at the end of the game, rifling the ball past the helpless Runarsson to complete the 4-0 rout. The win took PSG to 68 points from 27 games and restored their lead at the top of the table to 13 following second-placed Olympique de Marseille's 3-2 win over Nimes on Friday night. Dijon remains just above the relegation places with 27 points. In the late kickoffs, Teji Savanier scored twice for Montpellier as they thumped Strasbourg 3-0 and Anger put some daylight between themselves and the relegation zone with a 1-0 win away to Brest. Bottom side Toulouse slumped to a 2-0 defeat at home against Rennes while Amiens, who are second from bottom, lost 1-0 at home to Metz, with Farid Boulaya getting on the scoresheet for the visitors. On the south coast, Monaco was held to a 1-1 draw with Reims when Wissam Ben Yedder's first-half penalty for the home side was cancelled out by a 58th-minute equaliser from Hassane Kamara.

Mbappe masterclass fires PSG to 4-0 win over Dijon

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-champions-league-ucl-teen-sensation-haalands-brace-down-neymars-psg-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281462">Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles</a>

Bordeaux's Hwang Ui-jo hit the first goal on 18th minute giving the visiting side an edge over the hosts, but Edinson Cavani's goal in 25th goal equalised for the Parisian side. Cavani's goal was PSG's 200th goal. The first half ended with 2-2 scoreline after Marquinhos and Pablo scored during the injury time.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-president-nasser-al-khelaifi-charged-with-criminal-offences-281974"> Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences</a>

In the second half, Marquinhos scored his second goal on 63rd minute (3-2) and he was followed by another goal by Kylian Mbappe in the 69th minute (4-2). Bordeaux's Ruben Pardo scored the final goal for the team in the 83rd minute (4-3).

Marquinhos' brace, Cavani's 200th PSG goal and a goal by Kylian Mbappe put the Paris Saint Germain on 65 points from 26 games but they lost captain Thiago Silva to a muscle injury and Neymar picked up a straight red card for a late challenge in stoppage time.

The capital side remains Ligue 1 table-toppers, the gap with the second-placed Marseille increased to 13 points after they (Marseille) lost 3-1 to Nantes on Saturday.

PSG continues to fumble after their loss against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes.

Paris Saint Germain narrowly beat Bordeaux after a seven-goal thriller on Sunday. Despite Neymar Jr's red card, the Parisian side managed to beat Bordeaux 4-3 at Parc des Princes. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles Bordeaux's Hwang Ui-jo hit the first goal on 18th minute giving the visiting side an edge over the hosts, but Edinson Cavani's goal in 25th goal equalised for the Parisian side. Cavani's goal was PSG's 200th goal. The first half ended with 2-2 scoreline after Marquinhos and Pablo scored during the injury time. Also read: Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi charged with criminal offences In the second half, Marquinhos scored his second goal on 63rd minute (3-2) and he was followed by another goal by Kylian Mbappe in the 69th minute (4-2). Bordeaux's Ruben Pardo scored the final goal for the team in the 83rd minute (4-3). Marquinhos' brace, Cavani's 200th PSG goal and a goal by Kylian Mbappe put the Paris Saint Germain on 65 points from 26 games but they lost captain Thiago Silva to a muscle injury and Neymar picked up a straight red card for a late challenge in stoppage time. The capital side remains Ligue 1 table-toppers, the gap with the second-placed Marseille increased to 13 points after they (Marseille) lost 3-1 to Nantes on Saturday. PSG continues to fumble after their loss against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Ligue 1: PSG manage win against Bordeaux despite Neymar's red card

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../neymar-back-from-injury-for-borussia- dortmund-clash-281179">Neymar</a> has criticised Paris Saint-Germain's handling of his recent injury after scoring in the 2-1 defeat at Borussia Dortmund, which leaves the French club facing the prospect of another early Champions League exit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-champions-league-ucl-teen-sensation-haalands-brace-down-neymars-psg-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281462" hreflang="en">Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles</a>

After missing four games in the last fortnight with a rib injury, the Brazilian superstar looked short of match fitness in Tuesday's last-16, first-leg, defeat at Dortmund.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeones-atletico-stun-mighty-liverpool-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281473" hreflang="en">Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16</a>

Norwegian goal-machine Erling Braut Haaland scored twice to make him the Champions League joint top-scorer, but Neymar gave PSG a lifeline for the second leg in Paris on March 11.

He tapped home for what could prove a crucial away goal after being set up by France striker Kylian Mbappe in the second half.&nbsp;

Neymar, the world's most expensive player, was critical of the French league champions for not letting him play more before Tuesday's clash.

"It's hard to go four games without playing," said Neymar.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately it wasn't my choice, it was the choice of the club, of the doctors, they made that decision, which I didn't like.

"We had a lot of discussions about it because I wanted to play, I felt good, but the club was afraid and in the end, it was me who suffered."

Big-spending PSG is desperate to avoid exiting the Champions League at the first knockout round for the fourth season in a row.

"It was a tough game, but we have to do what we can in the return game," Neymar, 28, told reporters.

"Playing now at home is the best thing in the world, we have 90 minutes to do something.

Neymar has criticised Paris Saint-Germain's handling of his recent injury after scoring in the 2-1 defeat at Borussia Dortmund, which leaves the French club facing the prospect of another early Champions League exit.

Neymar has criticised Paris Saint-Germain's handling of his recent injury after scoring in the 2-1 defeat at Borussia Dortmund, which leaves the French club facing the prospect of another early Champions League exit. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles After missing four games in the last fortnight with a rib injury, the Brazilian superstar looked short of match fitness in Tuesday's last-16, first-leg, defeat at Dortmund. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 Norwegian goal-machine Erling Braut Haaland scored twice to make him the Champions League joint top-scorer, but Neymar gave PSG a lifeline for the second leg in Paris on March 11. He tapped home for what could prove a crucial away goal after being set up by France striker Kylian Mbappe in the second half. Neymar, the world's most expensive player, was critical of the French league champions for not letting him play more before Tuesday's clash. "It's hard to go four games without playing," said Neymar. "Unfortunately it wasn't my choice, it was the choice of the club, of the doctors, they made that decision, which I didn't like. "We had a lot of discussions about it because I wanted to play, I felt good, but the club was afraid and in the end, it was me who suffered." Big-spending PSG is desperate to avoid exiting the Champions League at the first knockout round for the fourth season in a row. "It was a tough game, but we have to do what we can in the return game," Neymar, 28, told reporters. "Playing now at home is the best thing in the world, we have 90 minutes to do something.

Neymar criticises PSG injury handling after Dortmund defeat

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund.&nbsp;

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🚀 THAT thunderbolt by Erling Haaland 😱 
 
🤔 A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOTW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOTW</a> contender?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NissanFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NissanFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sha23D5z8O">pic.twitter.com/Sha23D5z8O</a>
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The match became exciting in the second half after Haaland smashed a stunning close-range goal for Borussia in the 69th-minute, however, it looked like PSG would leave Dortmund with a tie in the first leg after Neymar scored in the 75th minute. But Haaland's 77th-minute goal was the match decider.&nbsp;

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🇳🇴 Erling Braut Haaland = 1st teenager to score 10 in a single campaign in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> history 👏👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/6zAbGwQsBE">pic.twitter.com/6zAbGwQsBE</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1229914960052047872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 19-year old, 6ft 3 inches, is leading the top scorer's list after scoring 10 goals and 1 assist in the last seven&nbsp;matches. Lewandowski has scored the same number of goals (10) but has no assist.&nbsp;

Haaland told UEFA.com, "I feel like I still can do a lot better. I have to play better at this level, have to work hard to improve,".

The prolific Norwegian striker was adjudged the man of the match for his stellar performance against PSG.

Borussia Dortmund will still be precautious as they face Paris Saint Germain on their home turf in the next leg.

Haaland said: "The result is quite a dangerous one, as Paris has a very strong team and can still go through in the return leg."

Haaland has been a recent signing for Dortmund, they bought the young lad for 20 million euros from Salzburg during the winter transfer window.&nbsp;

He scored 28 goals in 22 games for Salzburg. The Leeds-born player now has 11 goals in just seven outings for his new club.

Haaland threatens Mbappe's record of scoring 19 Champions League goals before turning 21.&nbsp;

The $434 million line-up of Paris Saint Germain will eye to overturn the scoreline in the second leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League. 
&nbsp;

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund.

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund. 🚀 THAT thunderbolt by Erling Haaland 😱 🤔 A #GOTW contender?#UCL | @NissanFootball pic.twitter.com/Sha23D5z8O — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 18, 2020 × The match became exciting in the second half after Haaland smashed a stunning close-range goal for Borussia in the 69th-minute, however, it looked like PSG would leave Dortmund with a tie in the first leg after Neymar scored in the 75th minute. But Haaland's 77th-minute goal was the match decider. 🇳🇴 Erling Braut Haaland = 1st teenager to score 10 in a single campaign in #UCL history 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/6zAbGwQsBE — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 18, 2020 × The 19-year old, 6ft 3 inches, is leading the top scorer's list after scoring 10 goals and 1 assist in the last seven matches. Lewandowski has scored the same number of goals (10) but has no assist. Haaland told UEFA.com, "I feel like I still can do a lot better. I have to play better at this level, have to work hard to improve,". The prolific Norwegian striker was adjudged the man of the match for his stellar performance against PSG. Borussia Dortmund will still be precautious as they face Paris Saint Germain on their home turf in the next leg. Haaland said: "The result is quite a dangerous one, as Paris has a very strong team and can still go through in the return leg." Haaland has been a recent signing for Dortmund, they bought the young lad for 20 million euros from Salzburg during the winter transfer window. He scored 28 goals in 22 games for Salzburg. The Leeds-born player now has 11 goals in just seven outings for his new club. Haaland threatens Mbappe's record of scoring 19 Champions League goals before turning 21. The $434 million line-up of Paris Saint Germain will eye to overturn the scoreline in the second leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League.

Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-glimpse-of-psg-star-neymars-new-5-storey-mansion-436">Neymar </a>has been named in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-psg-aided-by-own-goal-for-the-ages-in-win-over-lyon-279646">Paris Saint-Germain</a> squad for Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/latest-sports-news-leipzig-back-on-top-with-3-0-win-over-strugglers-werder-280892">Borussia Dortmund</a>, despite missing the French club's last four games through injury.

The world's most expensive player has been struggling with a rib problem but was expected to be fit in time for the game at Signal Iduna Park.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-should-forget-his-brazilian-party-nights-if-he-returns-to-barca-jordi-mestre-280200">Neymar should bid farewell to his Brazilian parties if he wants Barca return: Jordi Mestre</a>

The Brazilian missed last season's surprise last-16 loss to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-newbie-trained-away-from-club-facilities-citing-coronavirus-fears-280634">Manchester United </a>with a foot injury, while he also sat out the second leg of the defeat at the same stage of the competition by Real Madrid in 2018.

Neymar was rested, along with Kylian Mbappe, for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-psg-aided-by-own-goal-for-the-ages-in-win-over-lyon-279646">PSG's </a>remarkable 4-4 draw at Amiens in Ligue 1 on Saturday.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-glimpse-of-psg-star-neymars-new-5-storey-mansion-436">PSG superstar Neymar's new 5-storey mansion near club ground</a>

"He will be in Dortmund, I'm sure of it, but without being in the best shape he was in two weeks ago," Tuchel said before the Amiens game.

"But he will help us. I am sure and convinced of that."

PSG are yet to reach the Champions League semi-finals since being bought by their Qatari owners in 2011, with their run to the last four in 1994-95 still the closest they have come to lifting the European Cup.

Neymar has been named in the Paris Saint-Germain squad for Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at Borussia Dortmund, despite missing the French club's last four games through injury.

Neymar has been named in the Paris Saint-Germain squad for Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg at Borussia Dortmund, despite missing the French club's last four games through injury. The world's most expensive player has been struggling with a rib problem but was expected to be fit in time for the game at Signal Iduna Park. Also read: Neymar should bid farewell to his Brazilian parties if he wants Barca return: Jordi Mestre The Brazilian missed last season's surprise last-16 loss to Manchester United with a foot injury, while he also sat out the second leg of the defeat at the same stage of the competition by Real Madrid in 2018. Neymar was rested, along with Kylian Mbappe, for PSG's remarkable 4-4 draw at Amiens in Ligue 1 on Saturday. Also see: PSG superstar Neymar's new 5-storey mansion near club ground "He will be in Dortmund, I'm sure of it, but without being in the best shape he was in two weeks ago," Tuchel said before the Amiens game. "But he will help us. I am sure and convinced of that." PSG are yet to reach the Champions League semi-finals since being bought by their Qatari owners in 2011, with their run to the last four in 1994-95 still the closest they have come to lifting the European Cup.

Neymar back from injury for Borussia Dortmund clash

Neymar Jr's possible return&nbsp;to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre.

The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of&nbsp;conditions on the player.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../ligue-1-neymars-injury-forces-him-out-of- nantes-clash-278487">Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash</a>

Jordi Mestre said that the young footballer should forget his excuses&nbsp;for missing out games for his lavish birthday parties in Brazil if he gets&nbsp;transferred to Camp Nou. Jordi Mestre resigned from the team in July.&nbsp;

According to Jordi Mestre a lot of conditions might be put on the Brazilian forward following his return: "On sporting terms, he could come back but on a series of conditions. Firstly, PSG have to agree, then he would have to withdraw his lawsuit and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and after that, all the birthday parties in Brazil would have to stop."

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Happy birthday to me 🤙🏽🤪 thank for everything my God ❤️🙏🏽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Njr28?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Njr28</a> <a href="https://t.co/GeqzdhfIJW">pic.twitter.com/GeqzdhfIJW</a>
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The PSG star was recently ruled of the play due to an injury, interestingly this injury was struck some days around his birthday. He has skipped a fixture which fell on his birthday, three times in a row now.

All due to the same 'injury' problem. He has missed 60 games for the Paris side due to the injury since his arrival in 2017. That's 76 matches played and 60 matches missed. This has angered PSG's top brass level. He had also been in news last year for missing out a fixture because of his sister Rafaella's birthday for the fifth time in a row. The last match he played for PSG was on February 2 against Montpellier.&nbsp;

Neymar's return to Camp Nou has made rounds for quite some time. The PSG star joined his current French club after signing a record $242 million fee from the Catalonia Giants in 2017, but during the off-season, the 28-year-old Brazilian wanted out from the Paris Saint Germain.&nbsp;

Though the deal was not materialised the rumours have not rested as of now.&nbsp;

Barcelona are currently second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga points table, Lionel Messi has been doing all the goal-scoring for the team after Luis Suarez's injury. Neymar's signing could help Barca return to its glorious period of 'MSN' (Messi, Suarez, Neymar).&nbsp;

Neymar Jr's possible return to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre. The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of conditions on the player.

Neymar Jr's possible return to Barcelona has been critically examined by Barca's former vice president Jordi Mestre. The ex-Barcelona vice-president feels the Brazilian star's signing will help the team but will also impose a lot of conditions on the player. Also read- Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash Jordi Mestre said that the young footballer should forget his excuses for missing out games for his lavish birthday parties in Brazil if he gets transferred to Camp Nou. Jordi Mestre resigned from the team in July. According to Jordi Mestre a lot of conditions might be put on the Brazilian forward following his return: "On sporting terms, he could come back but on a series of conditions. Firstly, PSG have to agree, then he would have to withdraw his lawsuit and acknowledge that he was in the wrong and after that, all the birthday parties in Brazil would have to stop." Happy birthday to me 🤙🏽🤪 thank for everything my God ❤️🙏🏽 #Njr28 pic.twitter.com/GeqzdhfIJW — Neymar Jr (@neymarjr) February 5, 2020 × The PSG star was recently ruled of the play due to an injury, interestingly this injury was struck some days around his birthday. He has skipped a fixture which fell on his birthday, three times in a row now. All due to the same 'injury' problem. He has missed 60 games for the Paris side due to the injury since his arrival in 2017. That's 76 matches played and 60 matches missed. This has angered PSG's top brass level. He had also been in news last year for missing out a fixture because of his sister Rafaella's birthday for the fifth time in a row. The last match he played for PSG was on February 2 against Montpellier. Neymar's return to Camp Nou has made rounds for quite some time. The PSG star joined his current French club after signing a record $242 million fee from the Catalonia Giants in 2017, but during the off-season, the 28-year-old Brazilian wanted out from the Paris Saint Germain. Though the deal was not materialised the rumours have not rested as of now. Barcelona are currently second to their arch-rivals Real Madrid in the La Liga points table, Lionel Messi has been doing all the goal-scoring for the team after Luis Suarez's injury. Neymar's signing could help Barca return to its glorious period of 'MSN' (Messi, Suarez, Neymar).

Neymar should bid farewell to his Brazilian parties if he wants Barca return: Jordi Mestre

Paris Saint-Germain further strengthened their dominance of Ligue 1 on Tuesday with a 2-1 win at Nantes that moved the champions 15 points clear of the domestic rivals.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-neymars-injury-forces-him-out-of-nantes-clash-278487">Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash</a>

Goals in either half from Mauro Icardi and Thilo Kehrer were just about enough for Thomas Tuchel's side to stretch their lead over second-placed Marseille ahead of their trip to Saint-Etienne on Wednesday.

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👏 Thank you to the 8⃣5⃣0⃣ supporters who traveled with us to Nantes! 🚗🚌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCNPSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCNPSG</a> <a href="https://t.co/mT6TrOm8MA">pic.twitter.com/mT6TrOm8MA</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1224840059096043522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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PSG&nbsp;extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 20 matches despite a Presnel Kimpembe howler allowing Moses Simon to race through and pull one back in the 68th minute, setting up a nervy finish.

"I'm thrilled with how we played for 70 minutes, I'm very satisfied," said Tuchel to Canal.

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A thrilling end to the match, earning all three points! (1-2)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCNPSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCNPSG</a> 
 
🔴🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICICESTPARIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICICESTPARIS</a> <a href="https://t.co/xUuodEuoJU">pic.twitter.com/xUuodEuoJU</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1224814911898968069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"We should have scored four times but only scored twice, and then that error ... I think it was a bit too much confidence."

The capital club were dominant for long periods despite the absence of Neymar with a rib complaint, and it was Kylian Mbappe, starting following his touchline spat with Tuchel at the weekend, who created the opener.

World Cup winner Mbappe burst down the left flank before pulling back perfectly for Angel Di Maria, whose shot brushed fellow Argentine Icardi before nestling in the back of the net.

The three points looked to be sealed 11 minutes after the break when Kehrer headed home Di Maria's corner.&nbsp;

However, Kimpembe let Nantes back into the game 11 minutes later when his fluffed attempt at a flicked pass to centre-back partner Kehrer gave Simon his chance.

PSG&nbsp;had a series of good opportunities to go back two goals ahead, with Mbappe twice denied by fine last-ditch defending, but they failed to capitalise and had to thank Keylor Navas for twice saving the result in the final minutes.

First, he got out well to stop Simon as the Nigerian bore down on goal and in stoppage time got down brilliantly to push away Renaud Emond's close-range flick.

Earlier, Rennes missed the chance to go second after Loic Remy's early goal consigned them to a 1-0 defeat at Champions League-chasing Lille.

Remy struck in the fourth minute for the hosts when he collected Jonathan Ikone's pass before lashing home a long-range effort to move his fourth-placed side up to 37 points, three behind Rennes.

The away side remain a further three points away from Marseille, who would have been temporarily overtaken by Rennes had they won by two goals or more.

Monaco meanwhile won their first league match of 2020 1-0 over Angers thanks to Stevan Jovetic, who guided in Youssouf Fofana's long pass with his head to move Robert Moreno's side ninth, level on 32 points with four other teams.

The victory ends a four-match winless run in the league for Monaco that was made worse by last week's French Cup exit at the hands of Saint-Etienne last week.

Paris Saint-Germain further strengthened their dominance of Ligue 1 on Tuesday with a 2-1 win at Nantes that moved the champions 15 points clear of the domestic rivals.

Paris Saint-Germain further strengthened their dominance of Ligue 1 on Tuesday with a 2-1 win at Nantes that moved the champions 15 points clear of the domestic rivals. Also read- Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash Goals in either half from Mauro Icardi and Thilo Kehrer were just about enough for Thomas Tuchel's side to stretch their lead over second-placed Marseille ahead of their trip to Saint-Etienne on Wednesday. 👏 Thank you to the 8⃣5⃣0⃣ supporters who traveled with us to Nantes! 🚗🚌#FCNPSG pic.twitter.com/mT6TrOm8MA — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 4, 2020 × PSG extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 20 matches despite a Presnel Kimpembe howler allowing Moses Simon to race through and pull one back in the 68th minute, setting up a nervy finish. "I'm thrilled with how we played for 70 minutes, I'm very satisfied," said Tuchel to Canal. A thrilling end to the match, earning all three points! (1-2)#FCNPSG 🔴🔵 #ICICESTPARIS pic.twitter.com/xUuodEuoJU — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 4, 2020 × "We should have scored four times but only scored twice, and then that error ... I think it was a bit too much confidence." The capital club were dominant for long periods despite the absence of Neymar with a rib complaint, and it was Kylian Mbappe, starting following his touchline spat with Tuchel at the weekend, who created the opener. World Cup winner Mbappe burst down the left flank before pulling back perfectly for Angel Di Maria, whose shot brushed fellow Argentine Icardi before nestling in the back of the net. The three points looked to be sealed 11 minutes after the break when Kehrer headed home Di Maria's corner. However, Kimpembe let Nantes back into the game 11 minutes later when his fluffed attempt at a flicked pass to centre-back partner Kehrer gave Simon his chance. PSG had a series of good opportunities to go back two goals ahead, with Mbappe twice denied by fine last-ditch defending, but they failed to capitalise and had to thank Keylor Navas for twice saving the result in the final minutes. First, he got out well to stop Simon as the Nigerian bore down on goal and in stoppage time got down brilliantly to push away Renaud Emond's close-range flick. Earlier, Rennes missed the chance to go second after Loic Remy's early goal consigned them to a 1-0 defeat at Champions League-chasing Lille. Remy struck in the fourth minute for the hosts when he collected Jonathan Ikone's pass before lashing home a long-range effort to move his fourth-placed side up to 37 points, three behind Rennes. The away side remain a further three points away from Marseille, who would have been temporarily overtaken by Rennes had they won by two goals or more. Monaco meanwhile won their first league match of 2020 1-0 over Angers thanks to Stevan Jovetic, who guided in Youssouf Fofana's long pass with his head to move Robert Moreno's side ninth, level on 32 points with four other teams. The victory ends a four-match winless run in the league for Monaco that was made worse by last week's French Cup exit at the hands of Saint-Etienne last week.

Ligue 1: PSG move 15 points clear with tight Nantes win

Neymar is set to miss Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Ligue 1 clash against Nantes due to injury.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-shines-but-psg-held-by-monaco-in-thriller-273837">Neymar shines but PSG held by Monaco in thriller</a>

The club announced their squad for the Nantes clash and the Brazilian international was the notable absentee. He sustained an injury during the match against Montpellier on February 1.

"Neymar has a costochondral injury, suffered during the first half of the match against Montpellier. This was confirmed by tests that were conducted today," the club said in a statement.

PSG squad: Mitchel Bakker, Marcin Bulka, Edinson Cavani, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Angel Di Maria, Julian Draxler, Idrissa Gueye, Mauro Icardi, Thilo Kehrer, Presnel Kimpembe, Tanguy Kouassi, Layvin Kurzawa, Kylian Mbappe, Thomas Meunier, Keylor Navas, Leandro Paredes, Sergio Rico, Pablo Sarabia, Marco Verratti.

PSG top the Ligue 1 table with 55 points and will take on Nantes on February 5.

Neymar is set to miss Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Ligue 1 clash against Nantes due to injury. Also read: Neymar shines but PSG held by Monaco in thriller The club announced their squad for the Nantes clash and the Brazilian international was the notable absentee.

Neymar is set to miss Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Ligue 1 clash against Nantes due to injury. Also read: Neymar shines but PSG held by Monaco in thriller The club announced their squad for the Nantes clash and the Brazilian international was the notable absentee. He sustained an injury during the match against Montpellier on February 1. "Neymar has a costochondral injury, suffered during the first half of the match against Montpellier. This was confirmed by tests that were conducted today," the club said in a statement. PSG squad: Mitchel Bakker, Marcin Bulka, Edinson Cavani, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Angel Di Maria, Julian Draxler, Idrissa Gueye, Mauro Icardi, Thilo Kehrer, Presnel Kimpembe, Tanguy Kouassi, Layvin Kurzawa, Kylian Mbappe, Thomas Meunier, Keylor Navas, Leandro Paredes, Sergio Rico, Pablo Sarabia, Marco Verratti. PSG top the Ligue 1 table with 55 points and will take on Nantes on February 5.

Ligue 1: Neymar's injury forces him out of Nantes clash

Instagram followers: Top 10 most-followed accounts, Ronaldo crosses 200m mark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-barcelona-offered-to-restructure-salaries-to-pay-for-neymar-return-259218">Neymar</a> scored twice and created another goal but leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-saint-germain-and-french-football-braced-for-neymar-exit-243259">Paris Saint-Germain</a> were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno.

The Brazilian gave PSG the lead after just two minutes at the Parc des Princes but Monaco scored two quick goals through Gelson Martins and Wissam Ben Yedder to move 2-1 ahead inside quarter of an hour.

A Fode Ballo-Toure own goal brought PSG level and Neymar restored their advantage from the penalty spot before half-time after a foul on Kylian Mbappe.

But Monaco, who also host PSG on Wednesday in a rearranged fixture, earned a point when Islam Slimani's goal was controversially awarded after it was initially ruled out for offside.

"We didn't put in our best performance but we tried.&nbsp;It was a good test. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-monaco-eye-history-making-comeback-against-juventus-15391">Monaco</a> has a good team but we are superior and we must show it on the pitch," Neymar told Canal+.&nbsp;

"If we had played at our best we would have taken the three points.

"I think on the third goal, the fact our defender touched the ball wasn't intentional but the decision falls to the referee. They have VAR for that, we can't complain. We weren't perfect tonight either."

It was just the second time PSG have dropped points at home this season after a shock 2-0 defeat by Reims in September but the draw represented a positive start for former Spain coach Moreno, who replaced Leonardo Jardim at the end of December.

"We should be very happy. I'm very pleased with my players and I want to congratulate them for a great match," said Moreno.

"We played to our strengths on the counter-attack. We think we can beat any team and that's what I tell my players. That's our philosophy."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-stars-as-psg-snatch-draw-against-real-madrid-264752">PSG</a> had started the new year in rampant form by scoring six both times in a pair of domestic cup wins and looked on track for a 10th win in a row over Monaco after Neymar controlled a terrific Marco Verratti pass to smash home the opener.

Thomas Tuchel's side came in riding an eight-match winning streak across which they had scored 34 goals but concerns remained over the deployment of a prolific four-man attack against stronger opposition.

Monaco hit back almost immediately as Cesc Fabregas threaded a neat ball through for Ben Yedder and although he was chopped down by Keylor Navas, the rebound rolled into the path of Martins who tapped into an empty net.

The visitors soon exposed PSG again, this time Keita Balde ran at the defence before slipping across to Ben Yedder who applied a composed finish for his league-best 14th goal.

The Monaco duo almost combined to devastating effect once more on the counter, with Navas producing a fine save with his legs to thwart Senegalese forward Balde.&nbsp;

PSG equalised moments later when Neymar received the ball in the box and his snapshot took a couple of deflections the latter coming off Ballo-Toure for an own goal.

Kamil Glik headed against the post on the half-hour but PSG regained the lead on 41 minutes, Neymar converting a spot-kick after Mbappe was brought down by Martins.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-hit-back-to-beat-scotland-in-euro-qualifier-248242">Aleksandr Golovin</a> missed an excellent chance to level before the break while Neymar was denied a hat-trick by a sharp reflex stop from Benjamin Lecomte early in the second half.

Monaco made it 3-3 with 20 minutes to go with the help of the video assistant referee system.

The linesman raised his flag as Slimani forced in from close range but replays showed Marquinhos had knocked the ball towards the Algerian, albeit inadvertently, prompting the original offside decision to be overturned.&nbsp;

Mbappe could have won it at the death but sliced wide on the volley as PSG drew for the first time this season in the league.

Lille's miserable away form continued as they lost 1-0 at Dijon, who played for over an hour with 10 men after the dismissal of Hamza Mendyl.

Julio Tavares scored the winning goal on 47 minutes as Dijon pulled four points clear of the relegation places while Lille blew the chance to return to the top three.&nbsp;

Lille are unbeaten at home but have won just once in 10 outings on the road while losing on seven occasions.

Neymar scored twice and created another goal but leaders Paris Saint-Germain were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno.

Neymar scored twice and created another goal but leaders Paris Saint-Germain were held to an entertaining 3-3 draw at home on Sunday by a Monaco side playing their first Ligue 1 game under new coach Robert Moreno. The Brazilian gave PSG the lead after just two minutes at the Parc des Princes but Monaco scored two quick goals through Gelson Martins and Wissam Ben Yedder to move 2-1 ahead inside quarter of an hour. A Fode Ballo-Toure own goal brought PSG level and Neymar restored their advantage from the penalty spot before half-time after a foul on Kylian Mbappe. But Monaco, who also host PSG on Wednesday in a rearranged fixture, earned a point when Islam Slimani's goal was controversially awarded after it was initially ruled out for offside. "We didn't put in our best performance but we tried. It was a good test. Monaco has a good team but we are superior and we must show it on the pitch," Neymar told Canal+. "If we had played at our best we would have taken the three points. "I think on the third goal, the fact our defender touched the ball wasn't intentional but the decision falls to the referee. They have VAR for that, we can't complain. We weren't perfect tonight either." It was just the second time PSG have dropped points at home this season after a shock 2-0 defeat by Reims in September but the draw represented a positive start for former Spain coach Moreno, who replaced Leonardo Jardim at the end of December. "We should be very happy. I'm very pleased with my players and I want to congratulate them for a great match," said Moreno. "We played to our strengths on the counter-attack. We think we can beat any team and that's what I tell my players. That's our philosophy." PSG had started the new year in rampant form by scoring six both times in a pair of domestic cup wins and looked on track for a 10th win in a row over Monaco after Neymar controlled a terrific Marco Verratti pass to smash home the opener. Thomas Tuchel's side came in riding an eight-match winning streak across which they had scored 34 goals but concerns remained over the deployment of a prolific four-man attack against stronger opposition. Monaco hit back almost immediately as Cesc Fabregas threaded a neat ball through for Ben Yedder and although he was chopped down by Keylor Navas, the rebound rolled into the path of Martins who tapped into an empty net. The visitors soon exposed PSG again, this time Keita Balde ran at the defence before slipping across to Ben Yedder who applied a composed finish for his league-best 14th goal. The Monaco duo almost combined to devastating effect once more on the counter, with Navas producing a fine save with his legs to thwart Senegalese forward Balde. PSG equalised moments later when Neymar received the ball in the box and his snapshot took a couple of deflections the latter coming off Ballo-Toure for an own goal. Kamil Glik headed against the post on the half-hour but PSG regained the lead on 41 minutes, Neymar converting a spot-kick after Mbappe was brought down by Martins. Aleksandr Golovin missed an excellent chance to level before the break while Neymar was denied a hat-trick by a sharp reflex stop from Benjamin Lecomte early in the second half. Monaco made it 3-3 with 20 minutes to go with the help of the video assistant referee system. The linesman raised his flag as Slimani forced in from close range but replays showed Marquinhos had knocked the ball towards the Algerian, albeit inadvertently, prompting the original offside decision to be overturned. Mbappe could have won it at the death but sliced wide on the volley as PSG drew for the first time this season in the league. Lille's miserable away form continued as they lost 1-0 at Dijon, who played for over an hour with 10 men after the dismissal of Hamza Mendyl. Julio Tavares scored the winning goal on 47 minutes as Dijon pulled four points clear of the relegation places while Lille blew the chance to return to the top three. Lille are unbeaten at home but have won just once in 10 outings on the road while losing on seven occasions.

Neymar shines but PSG held by Monaco in thriller

Pablo Sarabia, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-mbappe-and-neymar-on-target-as-psg-sink-nantes-266408">Kylian Mbappe</a> and Angel Di-Maria scored for the record eight-time tournament winners inside the opening 48 minutes as Harisson Manzala responded for the hosts in the final edition of the competition.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">PSG</a> coach Thomas Tuchel chose to leave the world's most expensive player - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Neymar Jr</a> -&nbsp;who has suffered from injuries since the start of the season, in Paris as the German-made eight changes from the side which hammered Saint-Etienne on Sunday.

"I think it was a game that we had to win," said Tuchel.

"We played with players who lacked rhythm. I didn't expect too much from my team. We could have scored more goals.

"But we are happy -&nbsp;no injuries and now is the time to prepare to play Amiens at the weekend."

Le Mans coach Richard Dezire handed the club's record goal-scorer Vincent Crehin a start after the striker came off the bench to grab the winner against Ligue 2's bottom side Orleans on Friday.

Last year's quarter-finalists began the brightest at the MMArena as Spain attacker Sarabia, starting just his third game of the season, opened the scoring after 21 minutes.

Choupo-Moting added a second on the 41-minute mark and Mbappe side-footed home a third less than 90 seconds later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-icardi-di-maria-hand-psg-victory-on-neymars-latest-return-263994">Di Maria</a> hit a fourth three minutes into the second half as Le Mans' goalkeeper Pierre Patron fumbled the Argentina attacker's effort into his own goal.

DR Congo youth international Harisson Manzala claimed a consolation effort with 35 minutes to play by scoring for the first time this term.

Mbappe was substituted for Mauro Icardi on the 68-minute mark with Tuchel turning his focus to Saturday's Ligue 1 fixture against Amiens, a final game before a two-week winter break.

Elsewhere, Lyon, who are&nbsp;yet to win the trophy, hammered Toulouse 4-1 without <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lyon-beat-angers-to-consolidate-ligue-1-third-place-211979">Memphis Depay</a> who has been ruled out for six months with a knee injury.

Pablo Sarabia, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di-Maria scored for the record eight-time tournament winners inside the opening 48 minutes as Harisson Manzala responded for the hosts in the final edition of the competition.

Pablo Sarabia, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di-Maria scored for the record eight-time tournament winners inside the opening 48 minutes as Harisson Manzala responded for the hosts in the final edition of the competition. PSG coach Thomas Tuchel chose to leave the world's most expensive player - Neymar Jr - who has suffered from injuries since the start of the season, in Paris as the German-made eight changes from the side which hammered Saint-Etienne on Sunday. "I think it was a game that we had to win," said Tuchel. "We played with players who lacked rhythm. I didn't expect too much from my team. We could have scored more goals. "But we are happy - no injuries and now is the time to prepare to play Amiens at the weekend." Le Mans coach Richard Dezire handed the club's record goal-scorer Vincent Crehin a start after the striker came off the bench to grab the winner against Ligue 2's bottom side Orleans on Friday. Last year's quarter-finalists began the brightest at the MMArena as Spain attacker Sarabia, starting just his third game of the season, opened the scoring after 21 minutes. Choupo-Moting added a second on the 41-minute mark and Mbappe side-footed home a third less than 90 seconds later. Di Maria hit a fourth three minutes into the second half as Le Mans' goalkeeper Pierre Patron fumbled the Argentina attacker's effort into his own goal. DR Congo youth international Harisson Manzala claimed a consolation effort with 35 minutes to play by scoring for the first time this term. Mbappe was substituted for Mauro Icardi on the 68-minute mark with Tuchel turning his focus to Saturday's Ligue 1 fixture against Amiens, a final game before a two-week winter break. Elsewhere, Lyon, who are yet to win the trophy, hammered Toulouse 4-1 without Memphis Depay who has been ruled out for six months with a knee injury.

PSG cruise into League Cup quarters without rested Neymar

St Etienne have been ordered to play their Ligue 1 matches behind closed doors until further notice for "wide use of fireworks" in the stands during Sunday's home defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Paris St Germain</a>, the French Football League (LFP) said.

The home supporters set off flares and fireworks at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as PSG forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopp-rules-out-move-for-france-superstar-mbappe-261033">Kylian Mbappe</a> fired home an 89th-minute goal in a 4-0 win for the visitors.

The referee was forced to blow the whistle in the last minute and stoppage time was not played.

"In view of the particularly serious facts, there will be a total closed-door measure," the LFP said in a statement.

Paris St Germain extended their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 standings to seven points with a game in hand, courtesy of two goals from Mbappe and one each from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-glimpse-of-psg-star-neymars-new-5-storey-mansion-436">Neymar</a> and Mauro Icardi.

St Etienne have been ordered to play their Ligue 1 matches behind closed doors until further notice for "wide use of fireworks" in the stands during Sunday's home defeat by Paris St Germain, the French Football League (LFP) said.

St Etienne have been ordered to play their Ligue 1 matches behind closed doors until further notice for "wide use of fireworks" in the stands during Sunday's home defeat by Paris St Germain, the French Football League (LFP) said. The home supporters set off flares and fireworks at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as PSG forward Kylian Mbappe fired home an 89th-minute goal in a 4-0 win for the visitors. The referee was forced to blow the whistle in the last minute and stoppage time was not played. "In view of the particularly serious facts, there will be a total closed-door measure," the LFP said in a statement. Paris St Germain extended their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 standings to seven points with a game in hand, courtesy of two goals from Mbappe and one each from Neymar and Mauro Icardi.

Football: St Etienne hit with stadium ban over fireworks during PSG match

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ligue-1-mbappe-and-neymar-on-target-as-psg-sink-nantes-266408">Kylian Mbappe and Neymar</a> were at their brilliant best as Paris St Germain demolished Galatasaray 5-0 in their final Champions League Group A game at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday.

Both Mbappe and Neymar scored one and set up two other goals as the French champions, who had already made sure they would end the group phase on top, finished with 16 points, five ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Real Madrid</a> after the 13-time champions beat Club Brugge 3-1 away.

Galatasaray, who also conceded goals by Pablo Sarabia, Mauro Icardi and Edinson Cavani and ended with two points, were eliminated from all European competitions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-stars-as-psg-snatch-draw-against-real-madrid-264752">PSG</a> and Galatasaray fans clashed briefly before kickoff outside the stadium with one supporter being taken to hospital with a minor injury, a police source said.

Despite having midfielder Marco Verratti and keeper Keylor Navas on the bench and Angel Di Maria out with a last-minute injury, PSG dominated and were rewarded in the 32nd minute.

Neymar played Mbappe through and the French international flicked the ball into the path of Icardi who poked home the ball to put the hosts ahead with his fifth <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-gabriel-jesus-hat-trick-gives-man-city-4-1-win-at-dinamo-zagreb-267832">Champions League</a> goal this season,&nbsp;his 12th in his last 13 games in all competitions.

Sarabia made it 2-0 three minutes later with an angled shot after being set up by Neymar. The Brazilian found the back of the net himself two minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike into the far corner after being set up by a Mbappe backheel.

Mbappe, who has now scored 19 goals and set up 11 in 30 Champions League games, increased the advantage in the 63rd with a cool finish from another Neymar assist.

Fan favourite Cavani, who came on as a second-half substitute, rounded it off with a penalty in the 84th minute after Ryan Donk had brought down Mbappe.

Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were at their brilliant best as Paris St Germain demolished Galatasaray 5-0 in their final Champions League Group A game at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday.

Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were at their brilliant best as Paris St Germain demolished Galatasaray 5-0 in their final Champions League Group A game at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday. Both Mbappe and Neymar scored one and set up two other goals as the French champions, who had already made sure they would end the group phase on top, finished with 16 points, five ahead of Real Madrid after the 13-time champions beat Club Brugge 3-1 away. Galatasaray, who also conceded goals by Pablo Sarabia, Mauro Icardi and Edinson Cavani and ended with two points, were eliminated from all European competitions. PSG and Galatasaray fans clashed briefly before kickoff outside the stadium with one supporter being taken to hospital with a minor injury, a police source said. Despite having midfielder Marco Verratti and keeper Keylor Navas on the bench and Angel Di Maria out with a last-minute injury, PSG dominated and were rewarded in the 32nd minute. Neymar played Mbappe through and the French international flicked the ball into the path of Icardi who poked home the ball to put the hosts ahead with his fifth Champions League goal this season, his 12th in his last 13 games in all competitions. Sarabia made it 2-0 three minutes later with an angled shot after being set up by Neymar. The Brazilian found the back of the net himself two minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike into the far corner after being set up by a Mbappe backheel. Mbappe, who has now scored 19 goals and set up 11 in 30 Champions League games, increased the advantage in the 63rd with a cool finish from another Neymar assist. Fan favourite Cavani, who came on as a second-half substitute, rounded it off with a penalty in the 84th minute after Ryan Donk had brought down Mbappe.

Champions League: Mbappe and Neymar dazzle as PSG thrash Galatasaray

A superb <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-stars-as-psg-snatch-draw-against-real-madrid-264752">Kylian Mbappe</a> goal and a Neymar penalty helped Paris St Germain restore a five-point lead atop the Ligue 1 standings with a 2-0 home win over Nantes on Wednesday.

France striker Mbappe found the back of the net with a jaw-dropping backheel finish early in the second half and Neymar doubled the tally in the closing stages to put&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;on 36 points from 15 games.

Second-placed Marseille, who have played one game more, had narrowed the gap to two points with a 2-0 victory at Angers on Tuesday.

"It's not easy to beat Nantes they are very compact. We tried to play fast but we lost too many balls," said&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;midfielder Marquinhos.

Nantes dropped to ninth in the table on 23 points from 16 games.

At the Parc des Princes, coach Thomas Tuchel left Mauro Icardi on the substitutes' bench with Mbappe starting up front alongside Angel Di Maria and Neymar.

The Brazilian thought he had opened the scoring shortly before halftime but his effort was ruled out by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rule-makers-look-at-ways-of-providing-more-information-about-var-decisions-266170">VAR</a> because of a Julian Draxler foul in the area.

Mbappe went close four minutes into the second half but Alban Lafont parried away the France international's powerful angled shot.

Mbappe, however, put the hosts ahead in the 52nd minute with a gorgeous backheel from Di Maria's whipped pass after the Argentine had been played through on the right flank by Neymar.

Neymar converted a penalty six minutes from fulltime after Lafont had brought down Icardi in the area following a poor header back from defender Nicolas Pallois.

Keylor Navas made a key save to deny Pallois in stoppage time, helping secure a ninth clean sheet in nine league victories for&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;at home this season.

Elsewhere, St Etienne bounced back from their first defeat under Claude Puel with a 4-1 home victory against Nice thanks to a Denis Bouanga double.

The win lifted Les Verts, who were second from the bottom when Puel was appointed two months ago, up to fifth on 25 points.

"It was a perfect game which should boost our confidence," said Puel, who has secured 14 points in seven games for St Etienne.

Monaco's Wissam Ben Yedder scored an early penalty and set up Gelson Martins for the winner as they won 2-1 at bottom side Toulouse.

A superb Kylian Mbappe goal and a Neymar penalty helped Paris St Germain restore a five-point lead atop the Ligue 1 standings with a 2-0 home win over Nantes on Wednesday.

A superb Kylian Mbappe goal and a Neymar penalty helped Paris St Germain restore a five-point lead atop the Ligue 1 standings with a 2-0 home win over Nantes on Wednesday. France striker Mbappe found the back of the net with a jaw-dropping backheel finish early in the second half and Neymar doubled the tally in the closing stages to put PSG on 36 points from 15 games. Second-placed Marseille, who have played one game more, had narrowed the gap to two points with a 2-0 victory at Angers on Tuesday. "It's not easy to beat Nantes they are very compact. We tried to play fast but we lost too many balls," said PSG midfielder Marquinhos. Nantes dropped to ninth in the table on 23 points from 16 games. At the Parc des Princes, coach Thomas Tuchel left Mauro Icardi on the substitutes' bench with Mbappe starting up front alongside Angel Di Maria and Neymar. The Brazilian thought he had opened the scoring shortly before halftime but his effort was ruled out by the VAR because of a Julian Draxler foul in the area. Mbappe went close four minutes into the second half but Alban Lafont parried away the France international's powerful angled shot. Mbappe, however, put the hosts ahead in the 52nd minute with a gorgeous backheel from Di Maria's whipped pass after the Argentine had been played through on the right flank by Neymar. Neymar converted a penalty six minutes from fulltime after Lafont had brought down Icardi in the area following a poor header back from defender Nicolas Pallois. Keylor Navas made a key save to deny Pallois in stoppage time, helping secure a ninth clean sheet in nine league victories for PSG at home this season. Elsewhere, St Etienne bounced back from their first defeat under Claude Puel with a 4-1 home victory against Nice thanks to a Denis Bouanga double. The win lifted Les Verts, who were second from the bottom when Puel was appointed two months ago, up to fifth on 25 points. "It was a perfect game which should boost our confidence," said Puel, who has secured 14 points in seven games for St Etienne. Monaco's Wissam Ben Yedder scored an early penalty and set up Gelson Martins for the winner as they won 2-1 at bottom side Toulouse.

Ligue 1: Mbappe and Neymar on target as PSG sink Nantes

Neymar made his latest comeback from injury for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/di-maria-sends-psg-five-points-clear-as-nice-see-red-256983">Paris Saint-Germain</a> on Friday as first-half goals by Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria saw the Ligue 1 leaders ease to a 2-0 win over Lille at the Parc des Princes.

The in-form Icardi opened the scoring from close range in the 17th minute with his 10th goal in PSG's last nine games, and Di Maria doubled their lead just after the half-hour mark.

Despite not being near their best, Thomas Tuchel's side were too strong for the team who finished runners-up behind them last season.

After just 14 games, PSG are 11 points clear of second-placed Marseille, who play on Sunday.

Neymar had not played for his club since October 5, having suffered a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-neymar-sidelined-for-four-weeks-paris-st-germain-256001">hamstring injury</a> playing for Brazil against Nigeria a week later.

It was just the latest spell on the sidelines for the world's most expensive player, who has featured in barely half of PSG's matches since signing from Barcelona in 2017.

His decision to fly to Madrid to take in the Davis Cup tennis this week did not go down well with Tuchel, but the German coach still handed Neymar a start here.

On just his sixth appearance of the campaign, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-barcelona-offered-to-restructure-salaries-to-pay-for-neymar-return-259218">Neymar</a> lasted 65 minutes before being replaced by Kylian Mbappe, who had been struggling with illness in recent days.

"I didn't expect too much from him because he has been out for six weeks. He lacked precision and his usual sense of timing but that is how it is," said Tuchel of Neymar.&nbsp;

The Brazilian only produced brief glimpses of his class and headed straight to the dressing room after being taken off, with some supporters jeering the 27-year-old as he departed.

"It's normal, lots of players do that," insisted Tuchel, dismissing any controversy.

"Others go to the bench, but I didn't see it because I was focused on making changes on the field. There is no need to make a big thing about it."

The main reason for Neymar's withdrawal, however, will have been to keep him fresh for next Tuesday's trip to Real Madrid when he will hope to make his first Champions League appearance this season.

Lille had beaten PSG 5-1 when the sides last met in April, but they came here on a run of just one win in nine and without an away victory since March.

They were without their top scorer, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, due to suspension, and coach Christophe Galtier had been left reeling when two of his assistants,&nbsp;Portuguese duo Joao Sacramento and Nuno Santos,&nbsp;left 48 hours before this game to team up with Jose Mourinho at Tottenham Hotspur.

They still almost took a second-minute lead through Xeka, but the midfielder's shot was saved by Keylor Navas.

Instead it was PSG who went in front from their first chance, Icardi converting at the far post after Jose Fonte had failed to cut out Idrissa Gueye's low centre.

Mike Maignan saved well from Gueye before the home side scored again in the 31st minute through another of their Argentine contingent.

Both Di Maria and Icardi had scored in PSG's last game, a 2-1 win at Brest, and both were fresh here having not featured in the Argentina squad for their friendly matches against Brazil and Uruguay.

On form they surely deserve to be playing for their country, however.

Di Maria controlled Julian Draxler's pass and beat Maignan to make it 2-0. That was the end of the scoring, although Draxler and substitute Edinson Cavani both squandered excellent second-half chances.

"They didn't play for Argentina and that was good for us because it meant we were able to manage their workload and keep them fresh," Tuchel said of his two goal-scorers.

"I'm delighted because they got their goals and worked hard for the team."

Neymar made his latest comeback from injury for Paris Saint-Germain on Friday as first-half goals by Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria saw the Ligue 1 leaders ease to a 2-0 win over Lille at the Parc des Princes.

Neymar made his latest comeback from injury for Paris Saint-Germain on Friday as first-half goals by Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria saw the Ligue 1 leaders ease to a 2-0 win over Lille at the Parc des Princes. The in-form Icardi opened the scoring from close range in the 17th minute with his 10th goal in PSG's last nine games, and Di Maria doubled their lead just after the half-hour mark. Despite not being near their best, Thomas Tuchel's side were too strong for the team who finished runners-up behind them last season. After just 14 games, PSG are 11 points clear of second-placed Marseille, who play on Sunday. Neymar had not played for his club since October 5, having suffered a hamstring injury playing for Brazil against Nigeria a week later. It was just the latest spell on the sidelines for the world's most expensive player, who has featured in barely half of PSG's matches since signing from Barcelona in 2017. His decision to fly to Madrid to take in the Davis Cup tennis this week did not go down well with Tuchel, but the German coach still handed Neymar a start here. On just his sixth appearance of the campaign, Neymar lasted 65 minutes before being replaced by Kylian Mbappe, who had been struggling with illness in recent days. "I didn't expect too much from him because he has been out for six weeks. He lacked precision and his usual sense of timing but that is how it is," said Tuchel of Neymar. The Brazilian only produced brief glimpses of his class and headed straight to the dressing room after being taken off, with some supporters jeering the 27-year-old as he departed. "It's normal, lots of players do that," insisted Tuchel, dismissing any controversy. "Others go to the bench, but I didn't see it because I was focused on making changes on the field. There is no need to make a big thing about it." The main reason for Neymar's withdrawal, however, will have been to keep him fresh for next Tuesday's trip to Real Madrid when he will hope to make his first Champions League appearance this season. Lille had beaten PSG 5-1 when the sides last met in April, but they came here on a run of just one win in nine and without an away victory since March. They were without their top scorer, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, due to suspension, and coach Christophe Galtier had been left reeling when two of his assistants, Portuguese duo Joao Sacramento and Nuno Santos, left 48 hours before this game to team up with Jose Mourinho at Tottenham Hotspur. They still almost took a second-minute lead through Xeka, but the midfielder's shot was saved by Keylor Navas. Instead it was PSG who went in front from their first chance, Icardi converting at the far post after Jose Fonte had failed to cut out Idrissa Gueye's low centre. Mike Maignan saved well from Gueye before the home side scored again in the 31st minute through another of their Argentine contingent. Both Di Maria and Icardi had scored in PSG's last game, a 2-1 win at Brest, and both were fresh here having not featured in the Argentina squad for their friendly matches against Brazil and Uruguay. On form they surely deserve to be playing for their country, however. Di Maria controlled Julian Draxler's pass and beat Maignan to make it 2-0. That was the end of the scoring, although Draxler and substitute Edinson Cavani both squandered excellent second-half chances. "They didn't play for Argentina and that was good for us because it meant we were able to manage their workload and keep them fresh," Tuchel said of his two goal-scorers. "I'm delighted because they got their goals and worked hard for the team."

Ligue 1: Icardi, Di Maria hand PSG victory on Neymar's latest return

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed.

Barca spent the bulk of the last transfer window trying to lure Neymar back from PSG, two years after he left the Catalans for a world record transfer fee of 222 million euros.

But the two clubs failed to reach an agreement before September's transfer deadline.

The Catalans, who had already signed French forward Antoine Griezmann for 120 million euros and Frenkie de Jong for 75 million, were constricted in their pursuit for Neymar by UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.

The rules, designed to prevent the sport’s richest owners from crushing their rivals, oblige clubs to be transparent about revenues and broadly balance them against expenditure. They also include a limit on the losses clubs can incur.

"We told (club president Josep Maria) Bartomeu that if it was necessary to delay payments in our contracts to meet Financial Fair Play regulations and sign Neymar we would do it," Pique told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday.

"We were ready to adjust our contracts. We weren't going to contribute money, but we were going to make things easier by allowing some payments to be made in the second or third year instead of the first."

The Brazilian sat out the start of the season while he waited for the transfer saga to end but returned to the team in September, scoring four goals in five Ligue 1 appearances.

He is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-neymar-sidelined-for-four-weeks-paris-st-germain-256001">currently sidelined </a>with a groin injury sustained on international duty with Brazil.

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed.

Barcelona were so keen to bring Neymar back from Paris St Germain that the players were ready to accept delays to salary payments in order for the club to afford the Brazilian, defender Gerard Pique has revealed. Barca spent the bulk of the last transfer window trying to lure Neymar back from PSG, two years after he left the Catalans for a world record transfer fee of 222 million euros. But the two clubs failed to reach an agreement before September's transfer deadline. The Catalans, who had already signed French forward Antoine Griezmann for 120 million euros and Frenkie de Jong for 75 million, were constricted in their pursuit for Neymar by UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations. The rules, designed to prevent the sport’s richest owners from crushing their rivals, oblige clubs to be transparent about revenues and broadly balance them against expenditure. They also include a limit on the losses clubs can incur. "We told (club president Josep Maria) Bartomeu that if it was necessary to delay payments in our contracts to meet Financial Fair Play regulations and sign Neymar we would do it," Pique told Spanish radio station Cadena Ser on Thursday. "We were ready to adjust our contracts. We weren't going to contribute money, but we were going to make things easier by allowing some payments to be made in the second or third year instead of the first." The Brazilian sat out the start of the season while he waited for the transfer saga to end but returned to the team in September, scoring four goals in five Ligue 1 appearances. He is currently sidelined with a groin injury sustained on international duty with Brazil.

Football: Barcelona offered to restructure salaries to pay for Neymar return

Paris St Germain forward Neymar will be out of action for four weeks because of a thigh injury, the Ligue 1 leaders said on Monday.

"Neymar underwent an MRI (scan) this afternoon... a medical check-up will be done in eight days but his return to competition is expected in four weeks depending on the evolution (of the injury)," PSG said in a statement.

Neymar picked up the injury during Brazil's 1-1 draw against Nigeria in a friendly game in Singapore on Sunday.

The striker is set to miss PSG's two Champions League games against Club Brugge next week and on November&nbsp;6.

Paris St Germain forward Neymar will be out of action for four weeks because of a thigh injury, the Ligue 1 leaders said on Monday. "Neymar underwent an MRI (scan) this afternoon.

Paris St Germain forward Neymar will be out of action for four weeks because of a thigh injury, the Ligue 1 leaders said on Monday. "Neymar underwent an MRI (scan) this afternoon... a medical check-up will be done in eight days but his return to competition is expected in four weeks depending on the evolution (of the injury)," PSG said in a statement. Neymar picked up the injury during Brazil's 1-1 draw against Nigeria in a friendly game in Singapore on Sunday. The striker is set to miss PSG's two Champions League games against Club Brugge next week and on November 6.

Injured Neymar sidelined for four weeks: PSG

Neymar scored a fine late winner as Paris Saint-Germain beat Lyon 1-0 on Sunday to move three points clear at the top of the Ligue 1 table.

The Brazilian finally beat Anthony Lopes, who had pulled off numerous impressive saves, with three minutes of normal time to play at the Groupama Stadium.

It was Neymar's second winning goal in as many league games since being reinstated to the team following a protracted transfer saga which saw him attempt to force through a return to Barcelona.

"Neymar can do better," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "It's the second or third game in four months for him. He's not at 100 percent capacity.

"He is not at his limit. He can do better, he will do better. He's going to get to his best level, with matches and decisive goals like that, it's going to help him."

The Parisians sit top on 15 points after Angers and Nice both won over the weekend to temporarily join Tuchel's side at the summit, and followed up their impressive midweek Champions League victory over Real Madrid with the win in constant drizzling rain in Lyon.

Sylvinho's Lyon remain in ninth place and are without a win since mid-August.

PSG were without the attacking trio of Kylian Mbappe, Edinson Cavani and Mauro Icardi due to injuries, while midfielder Marco Verratti started on the bench.

The best of the early chances fell to Neymar on 22 minutes but his effort was superbly saved by Lopes.

Neymar was denied again by another tidy Lopes stop four minutes before the break as the Portugal international tipped the Brazil forward's dangerous free-kick over the bar.&nbsp;

PSG's domination from the first half carried over into the second 45 minutes.

Abdou Diallo had the pick of the chances, using the wet conditions to glance a header from a Neymar corner over the crossbar.

The world's most expensive player was targeted by home fans when taking set-pieces from the left-hand side as they threw plastic bottles and rolled-up bin bags at him.

With 87 minutes on the clock, substitute Verratti found Neymar in the box who dribbled into space and finally beat Lopes to the keeper's left with a low shot.

He celebrated by running towards the same corner of the ground where he had earlier been taunted by the Lyon supporters.

Hat-trick hero Ninga&nbsp;

Earlier, Angers moved into second place after replacement Casimir Ninga scored an 11-minute hat-trick in a 4-1 thrashing of Saint-Etienne.

Ninga, who joined the club from second-tier Caen in August, put Angers into the lead with less than a quarter of an hour remaining before adding two more goals by the 89th minute to clinch their first home win over Saint-Etienne in 43 years.

The defeat at Stade Raymond Kopa leaves Les Verts a point above the relegation zone, with Ghislain Printant's outfit having failed to win since the opening day of the season.

Stephane Moulin's Angers, who finished 13th in the league last season, have claimed four wins from their opening six fixtures to pull level with Nice in second spot.

"Casimir made a thundering impact. I truly congratulate him because he's worked a lot since arriving at the club," Moulin said.

"The second half perfectly resembles what we have been doing since the start of the season. It's a little bit new but it corresponds perfectly to what we're trying to do."

Neymar scored a fine late winner as Paris Saint-Germain beat Lyon 1-0 on Sunday to move three points clear at the top of the Ligue 1 table. The Brazilian finally beat Anthony Lopes, who had pulled off numerous impressive saves, with three minutes of normal time to play at the Groupama Stadium.

Neymar scored a fine late winner as Paris Saint-Germain beat Lyon 1-0 on Sunday to move three points clear at the top of the Ligue 1 table. The Brazilian finally beat Anthony Lopes, who had pulled off numerous impressive saves, with three minutes of normal time to play at the Groupama Stadium. It was Neymar's second winning goal in as many league games since being reinstated to the team following a protracted transfer saga which saw him attempt to force through a return to Barcelona. "Neymar can do better," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "It's the second or third game in four months for him. He's not at 100 percent capacity. "He is not at his limit. He can do better, he will do better. He's going to get to his best level, with matches and decisive goals like that, it's going to help him." The Parisians sit top on 15 points after Angers and Nice both won over the weekend to temporarily join Tuchel's side at the summit, and followed up their impressive midweek Champions League victory over Real Madrid with the win in constant drizzling rain in Lyon. Sylvinho's Lyon remain in ninth place and are without a win since mid-August. PSG were without the attacking trio of Kylian Mbappe, Edinson Cavani and Mauro Icardi due to injuries, while midfielder Marco Verratti started on the bench. The best of the early chances fell to Neymar on 22 minutes but his effort was superbly saved by Lopes. Neymar was denied again by another tidy Lopes stop four minutes before the break as the Portugal international tipped the Brazil forward's dangerous free-kick over the bar. PSG's domination from the first half carried over into the second 45 minutes. Abdou Diallo had the pick of the chances, using the wet conditions to glance a header from a Neymar corner over the crossbar. The world's most expensive player was targeted by home fans when taking set-pieces from the left-hand side as they threw plastic bottles and rolled-up bin bags at him. With 87 minutes on the clock, substitute Verratti found Neymar in the box who dribbled into space and finally beat Lopes to the keeper's left with a low shot. He celebrated by running towards the same corner of the ground where he had earlier been taunted by the Lyon supporters. Hat-trick hero Ninga Earlier, Angers moved into second place after replacement Casimir Ninga scored an 11-minute hat-trick in a 4-1 thrashing of Saint-Etienne. Ninga, who joined the club from second-tier Caen in August, put Angers into the lead with less than a quarter of an hour remaining before adding two more goals by the 89th minute to clinch their first home win over Saint-Etienne in 43 years. The defeat at Stade Raymond Kopa leaves Les Verts a point above the relegation zone, with Ghislain Printant's outfit having failed to win since the opening day of the season. Stephane Moulin's Angers, who finished 13th in the league last season, have claimed four wins from their opening six fixtures to pull level with Nice in second spot. "Casimir made a thundering impact. I truly congratulate him because he's worked a lot since arriving at the club," Moulin said. "The second half perfectly resembles what we have been doing since the start of the season. It's a little bit new but it corresponds perfectly to what we're trying to do."

Neymar saves PSG to send French champions three points clear

Angel Di Maria was hailed as "exceptional" after scoring twice against his former club as Paris Saint-Germain shrugged off the absences of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe and thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 on Wednesday to get off to the perfect start in the Champions League.

Di Maria beat Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois at his near post to put PSG ahead in the 14th minute at the Parc des Princes, but it was his second goal just after the half-hour that really lit up this encounter.

The Argentine, who starred for Real for four years and won the Champions League with them in 2014 before moving to Manchester United, gave Courtois no chance with a left-footed shot from 20 yards out that arrowed into the corner.

Thomas Meunier added the gloss at the death but it was Di Maria who had cleared the way, stepping into the gap left by the injured Mbappe and Edinson Cavani as well as suspended Neymar.

"We can't be too surprised because he has been showing for more than a year now that he is capable of performances like that," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "He was exceptional tonight. He is always dangerous."

After a summer dominated by the saga of whether Neymar would leave, it was a reminder that the French champions have others capable of winning such games.

These two clubs are trying to recover some of their lustre after disappointing campaigns in Europe last season, but for PSG this result is a measure of revenge for their defeat at the hands of Real in the last 16 the previous year.

They remain unbeaten at home in the Champions League group stage since 2004 and they are already in control of Group A before facing Galatasaray and Club Brugge, who drew 0-0 on Wednesday.

"Everyone was saying how could we win with all these players out but maybe that meant we were not the favourites and it can also help when you don't feel too much pressure," Tuchel added.

'No intensity'

Real remain far from convincing since Zinedine Zidane's return for a second spell as coach of the 13-time European Cup winners. There is still much work to be done if they are to go deep in this competition again after being humbled by Ajax in the last 16 last spring.

"PSG are a good team and created lots of chances but what worries me is that my team played without any intensity," Zidane lamented as his team failed to muster a shot on target.

"We didn't really ever get going. We usually create lots of chances and today, well we scored two goals but both were disallowed. Apart from that there was nothing."&nbsp;

Hazard makes little impact

They had a Gareth Bale goal disallowed for handball after a VAR review just after going two behind, while Eden Hazard struggled to make an impact on his first start since his move from Chelsea.

Madrid were also handicapped by the absences of Sergio Ramos, Nacho and Marcelo in defence as well as Ballon d'Or winner Luka Modric in midfield.

PSG, confusingly wearing white while the visitors wore dark blue, opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Di Maria latched onto a Juan Bernat cutback from the left byline and fired in.

Hazard shot just wide at the other end moments later and Bale curled a free-kick over the bar from the edge of the area. Just after that, in the 33rd minute, Di Maria took a touch and smashed a shot into the right-hand corner to make it 2-0.

Then came Bale's disallowed goal, and the Welshman came close again in first-half stoppage time, yet the Spanish giants created little in the second half apart from a Karim Benzema goal that was ruled out for offside.

Hazard, meanwhile, departed 20 minutes from time having failed to make his mark, and PSG scored again in stoppage time, Meunier exchanging passes with Bernat before finishing.

Both sides should still make it through but for now it is PSG, six months on from their horror show against Manchester United, who have more reason to be optimistic. Especially with so much firepower still to return.

Angel Di Maria was hailed as "exceptional" after scoring twice against his former club as Paris Saint-Germain shrugged off the absences of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe and thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 on Wednesday to get off to the perfect start in the Champions League.

Angel Di Maria was hailed as "exceptional" after scoring twice against his former club as Paris Saint-Germain shrugged off the absences of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe and thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 on Wednesday to get off to the perfect start in the Champions League. Di Maria beat Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois at his near post to put PSG ahead in the 14th minute at the Parc des Princes, but it was his second goal just after the half-hour that really lit up this encounter. The Argentine, who starred for Real for four years and won the Champions League with them in 2014 before moving to Manchester United, gave Courtois no chance with a left-footed shot from 20 yards out that arrowed into the corner. Thomas Meunier added the gloss at the death but it was Di Maria who had cleared the way, stepping into the gap left by the injured Mbappe and Edinson Cavani as well as suspended Neymar. "We can't be too surprised because he has been showing for more than a year now that he is capable of performances like that," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "He was exceptional tonight. He is always dangerous." After a summer dominated by the saga of whether Neymar would leave, it was a reminder that the French champions have others capable of winning such games. These two clubs are trying to recover some of their lustre after disappointing campaigns in Europe last season, but for PSG this result is a measure of revenge for their defeat at the hands of Real in the last 16 the previous year. They remain unbeaten at home in the Champions League group stage since 2004 and they are already in control of Group A before facing Galatasaray and Club Brugge, who drew 0-0 on Wednesday. "Everyone was saying how could we win with all these players out but maybe that meant we were not the favourites and it can also help when you don't feel too much pressure," Tuchel added. 'No intensity' Real remain far from convincing since Zinedine Zidane's return for a second spell as coach of the 13-time European Cup winners. There is still much work to be done if they are to go deep in this competition again after being humbled by Ajax in the last 16 last spring. "PSG are a good team and created lots of chances but what worries me is that my team played without any intensity," Zidane lamented as his team failed to muster a shot on target. "We didn't really ever get going. We usually create lots of chances and today, well we scored two goals but both were disallowed. Apart from that there was nothing." Hazard makes little impact They had a Gareth Bale goal disallowed for handball after a VAR review just after going two behind, while Eden Hazard struggled to make an impact on his first start since his move from Chelsea. Madrid were also handicapped by the absences of Sergio Ramos, Nacho and Marcelo in defence as well as Ballon d'Or winner Luka Modric in midfield. PSG, confusingly wearing white while the visitors wore dark blue, opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Di Maria latched onto a Juan Bernat cutback from the left byline and fired in. Hazard shot just wide at the other end moments later and Bale curled a free-kick over the bar from the edge of the area. Just after that, in the 33rd minute, Di Maria took a touch and smashed a shot into the right-hand corner to make it 2-0. Then came Bale's disallowed goal, and the Welshman came close again in first-half stoppage time, yet the Spanish giants created little in the second half apart from a Karim Benzema goal that was ruled out for offside. Hazard, meanwhile, departed 20 minutes from time having failed to make his mark, and PSG scored again in stoppage time, Meunier exchanging passes with Bernat before finishing. Both sides should still make it through but for now it is PSG, six months on from their horror show against Manchester United, who have more reason to be optimistic. Especially with so much firepower still to return.

Champions League: Angel Di Maria stars as Paris Saint-Germain tear apart Real Madrid

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has reduced Paris St Germain striker Neymar's suspension from three to two UEFA games for insulting match officials, CAS said on Tuesday.

PSG and the Brazilian had appealed against the three-game ban imposed by European governing body UEFA in June, and CAS partially upheld the appeal.

Neymar labelled the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system "a disgrace" after PSG were eliminated from the Champions League last 16 by Manchester United after the Premier League side were awarded a decisive last-gasp penalty in a 3-1 win at the Parc des Princes.

Neymar will be eligible to play in the Champions League in the third round of matches, when PSG travel to Club Brugge on Oct. 22.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has reduced Paris St Germain striker Neymar's suspension from three to two UEFA games for insulting match officials, CAS said on Tuesday.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has reduced Paris St Germain striker Neymar's suspension from three to two UEFA games for insulting match officials, CAS said on Tuesday. PSG and the Brazilian had appealed against the three-game ban imposed by European governing body UEFA in June, and CAS partially upheld the appeal. Neymar labelled the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system "a disgrace" after PSG were eliminated from the Champions League last 16 by Manchester United after the Premier League side were awarded a decisive last-gasp penalty in a 3-1 win at the Parc des Princes. Neymar will be eligible to play in the Champions League in the third round of matches, when PSG travel to Club Brugge on Oct. 22.

Neymar's European suspension reduced from three to two games: CAS

Neymar shrugged off a hostile reception as he marked his return to action for Paris Saint-Germain with a stunning injury-time winner on Saturday, and then insisted it was time to move on from the saga of his aborted return to Barcelona.

The world's most expensive player was booed and insulted by sections of the PSG support in the Ligue 1 match against Strasbourg at the Parc des Princes.

That seemed set to be the only story of the afternoon until the second minute of added time when, with the game still goalless, the Brazilian met Abdou Diallo's cross with an acrobatic effort that sent the ball arcing back over his own head and in off the post, sealing a 1-0 win.

It was a remarkable goal and a reminder of why PSG paid a world record 222 million euros ($264 million at the time) to sign Neymar in 2017. It also leaves them two points clear of Rennes at the top of Ligue 1.

"I made it clear that I have nothing against the fans, nothing against Paris Saint-Germain as a club. Everyone knows I wanted to leave. I am not going to get into the details of what happened," he said after the game.

"It is time to turn the page. Today I am a Paris Saint-Germain player and I am going to give everything on the field."

He had not played for his club since May and had been left on the sidelines in their first four league games of the campaign because of the uncertainty surrounding his future.

However, having been resigned to a third season in France, he was handed a start by coach Thomas Tuchel here, and loud jeers greeted his name as the teams were read out. He was also regularly whistled by fans when he touched the ball.

"It is not the first time I have been booed by everyone," Neymar admitted.

"I played in Brazil away from home, I was widely booed. I have played in finals and been booed, I have played here in France, away from home, and also been booed.

"It is sad but I know that, from now on, every game I play will be an away game."

One banner unfurled in Portuguese, aimed at Neymar's father who is also his agent, read: "Neymar Senior, sell your son in the Vila Mimosa".

Vila Mimosa is a district of Rio de Janeiro notorious for prostitution.

Another banner mockingly called Neymar "Calimero", a reference to the always unlucky Italian cartoon character.

Certainly not much was going right on the field for the 27-year-old or for his team, who had been held by Strasbourg twice in the league last season.

Revenge 

Neymar hit the post direct from a corner late on but ended up getting his revenge -- it was against Strasbourg that he suffered a broken foot back in January.

"It was not easy because he is a very sensitive kid," Tuchel said. "It wasn't easy for the supporters either during the transfer window, so we have to accept their reaction. He can play better but he needs several matches to get his rhythm back."

As brilliant as the goal was, it was not met with unanimous approval by supporters, but Neymar will clearly be missed when he sits out Wednesday's Champions League opener against Real Madrid due to suspension.

PSG were still without the injured Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani here, but Mauro Icardi appeared as a substitute after arriving on loan from Inter Milan just before the transfer deadline.

New goalkeeper Keylor Navas started in goal following his arrival from Real and excelled himself with one early save from Ludovic Ajorque.

Lamine Kone headed over for the visitors late in the first half, and it was not until the latter stages that the hosts began to apply concerted pressure.

Neymar burst through in the 76th minute only to be denied by Matz Sels, and Strasbourg's Belgian goalkeeper then made a stunning save to tip Ander Herrera's deflected effort around the post.

There was nothing Sels could do, however, when Neymar produced his moment of magic at the death.

Neymar shrugged off a hostile reception as he marked his return to action for Paris Saint-Germain with a stunning injury-time winner on Saturday, and then insisted it was time to move on from the saga of his aborted return to Barcelona.

Neymar shrugged off a hostile reception as he marked his return to action for Paris Saint-Germain with a stunning injury-time winner on Saturday, and then insisted it was time to move on from the saga of his aborted return to Barcelona. The world's most expensive player was booed and insulted by sections of the PSG support in the Ligue 1 match against Strasbourg at the Parc des Princes. That seemed set to be the only story of the afternoon until the second minute of added time when, with the game still goalless, the Brazilian met Abdou Diallo's cross with an acrobatic effort that sent the ball arcing back over his own head and in off the post, sealing a 1-0 win. It was a remarkable goal and a reminder of why PSG paid a world record 222 million euros ($264 million at the time) to sign Neymar in 2017. It also leaves them two points clear of Rennes at the top of Ligue 1. "I made it clear that I have nothing against the fans, nothing against Paris Saint-Germain as a club. Everyone knows I wanted to leave. I am not going to get into the details of what happened," he said after the game. "It is time to turn the page. Today I am a Paris Saint-Germain player and I am going to give everything on the field." He had not played for his club since May and had been left on the sidelines in their first four league games of the campaign because of the uncertainty surrounding his future. However, having been resigned to a third season in France, he was handed a start by coach Thomas Tuchel here, and loud jeers greeted his name as the teams were read out. He was also regularly whistled by fans when he touched the ball. "It is not the first time I have been booed by everyone," Neymar admitted. "I played in Brazil away from home, I was widely booed. I have played in finals and been booed, I have played here in France, away from home, and also been booed. "It is sad but I know that, from now on, every game I play will be an away game." One banner unfurled in Portuguese, aimed at Neymar's father who is also his agent, read: "Neymar Senior, sell your son in the Vila Mimosa". Vila Mimosa is a district of Rio de Janeiro notorious for prostitution. Another banner mockingly called Neymar "Calimero", a reference to the always unlucky Italian cartoon character. Certainly not much was going right on the field for the 27-year-old or for his team, who had been held by Strasbourg twice in the league last season. Revenge Neymar hit the post direct from a corner late on but ended up getting his revenge -- it was against Strasbourg that he suffered a broken foot back in January. "It was not easy because he is a very sensitive kid," Tuchel said. "It wasn't easy for the supporters either during the transfer window, so we have to accept their reaction. He can play better but he needs several matches to get his rhythm back." As brilliant as the goal was, it was not met with unanimous approval by supporters, but Neymar will clearly be missed when he sits out Wednesday's Champions League opener against Real Madrid due to suspension. PSG were still without the injured Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani here, but Mauro Icardi appeared as a substitute after arriving on loan from Inter Milan just before the transfer deadline. New goalkeeper Keylor Navas started in goal following his arrival from Real and excelled himself with one early save from Ludovic Ajorque. Lamine Kone headed over for the visitors late in the first half, and it was not until the latter stages that the hosts began to apply concerted pressure. Neymar burst through in the 76th minute only to be denied by Matz Sels, and Strasbourg's Belgian goalkeeper then made a stunning save to tip Ander Herrera's deflected effort around the post. There was nothing Sels could do, however, when Neymar produced his moment of magic at the death.

'Time to turn the page' - Neymar scores stunning winner on PSG return

Neymar was named in the Paris Saint-Germain starting lineup for the first time for four months as the French champions face Strasbourg on Saturday.

The world's most expensive player has had to come to terms with the prospect of a third season in Ligue 1 after PSG and his former club Barcelona failed to agree terms on a move before the transfer window shut on September 2.

The 27-year-old has since been away on international duty for Brazil in two friendly matches in the United States, scoring one goal and making another in a 2-2 draw with Colombia and then coming on as a substitute in a 1-0 loss to Peru.

Those were his first appearances this season after he was left out of PSG's opening four league games amid the uncertainty over his future.

It remains to be seen what reception the Brazilian will get from the Parc des Princes crowd after fans help up a banners telling him to "get lost" at a home game last month.

PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said Friday the fans' reaction was beyond his control.

"I can understand that all the supporters are not happy at the moment. But I can't influence this reaction or control the supporters," Tuchel said. "The only thing that I can control is my team."

Neymar was named in the Paris Saint-Germain starting lineup for the first time for four months as the French champions face Strasbourg on Saturday. The world's most expensive player has had to come to terms with the prospect of a third season in Ligue 1 after PSG and his former club Barcelona failed to agree terms on a move before the transfer window shut on September 2.

Neymar was named in the Paris Saint-Germain starting lineup for the first time for four months as the French champions face Strasbourg on Saturday. The world's most expensive player has had to come to terms with the prospect of a third season in Ligue 1 after PSG and his former club Barcelona failed to agree terms on a move before the transfer window shut on September 2. The 27-year-old has since been away on international duty for Brazil in two friendly matches in the United States, scoring one goal and making another in a 2-2 draw with Colombia and then coming on as a substitute in a 1-0 loss to Peru. Those were his first appearances this season after he was left out of PSG's opening four league games amid the uncertainty over his future. It remains to be seen what reception the Brazilian will get from the Parc des Princes crowd after fans help up a banners telling him to "get lost" at a home game last month. PSG coach Thomas Tuchel said Friday the fans' reaction was beyond his control. "I can understand that all the supporters are not happy at the moment. But I can't influence this reaction or control the supporters," Tuchel said. "The only thing that I can control is my team."

Neymar in PSG team for first time in four months

Brazil coach Tite said Neymar will make a long-awaited return from injury when the South American champions take on Colombia in a friendly in Miami on Friday.

Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has not played since suffering an ankle injury in a friendly against Qatar in June which ruled him out of the Copa America.

However Tite Thursday said the striker had been declared fit and ready to return against the Colombians in Friday's game at the Hard Rock Stadium.

"Clinically he has recovered from the injury that as everyone remembers removed him from the Copa America," Tite said.

"If he wasn't fit, he wouldn't be with the national team. We are not irresponsible to force a situation when it concerns the athlete's health," Tite added.

"Me and the coaching staff will be very attentive to his development. He is ready, he is capable of doing what the team needs," he added.

Brazil went on to win the Copa America crown without Neymar in July, their first victory in the tournament since 2007.

Since then Neymar has been embroiled in a protracted saga, which saw him fail in his attempts to engineer a move back to Barcelona from PSG.

Tite meanwhile said he expects a demanding test of his team against Colombia, who were eliminated in the quarter-finals of this year's Copa America.

"It will be a strong confrontation. We all know the quality of the Colombian national team," Tite said.

While the game will mark the return of Neymar, Tite also plans to hand a debut to Real Madrid's 19-year-old Vinicius Jr.

"I'm happy to be here realising my dream," Vinicius said. "It's hard to believe that at 19 I'm here next to the best players, next to my idol (Neymar) and the players I'd always supported," he told a press conference.

Colombia meanwhile will be without star attackers Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez.

Brazil coach Tite said Neymar will make a long-awaited return from injury when the South American champions take on Colombia in a friendly in Miami on Friday. Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has not played since suffering an ankle injury in a friendly against Qatar in June which ruled him out of the Copa America.

Brazil coach Tite said Neymar will make a long-awaited return from injury when the South American champions take on Colombia in a friendly in Miami on Friday. Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has not played since suffering an ankle injury in a friendly against Qatar in June which ruled him out of the Copa America. However Tite Thursday said the striker had been declared fit and ready to return against the Colombians in Friday's game at the Hard Rock Stadium. "Clinically he has recovered from the injury that as everyone remembers removed him from the Copa America," Tite said. "If he wasn't fit, he wouldn't be with the national team. We are not irresponsible to force a situation when it concerns the athlete's health," Tite added. "Me and the coaching staff will be very attentive to his development. He is ready, he is capable of doing what the team needs," he added. Brazil went on to win the Copa America crown without Neymar in July, their first victory in the tournament since 2007. Since then Neymar has been embroiled in a protracted saga, which saw him fail in his attempts to engineer a move back to Barcelona from PSG. Tite meanwhile said he expects a demanding test of his team against Colombia, who were eliminated in the quarter-finals of this year's Copa America. "It will be a strong confrontation. We all know the quality of the Colombian national team," Tite said. While the game will mark the return of Neymar, Tite also plans to hand a debut to Real Madrid's 19-year-old Vinicius Jr. "I'm happy to be here realising my dream," Vinicius said. "It's hard to believe that at 19 I'm here next to the best players, next to my idol (Neymar) and the players I'd always supported," he told a press conference. Colombia meanwhile will be without star attackers Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez.

Neymar set to return for Brazil v Colombia: Tite

Paris St Germain are not close to reaching a deal with Barcelona that would take Neymar back to the Spanish champions as the Catalans have not met the French club's asking price for the Brazil forward, PSG's sporting director Leonardo said on Friday.

Barca's attempt to re-sign Neymar two years after he joined PSG for a world record €222 million ($247.40 million) has dominated sports headlines for months, but time is running out to strike a deal before the transfer window shuts on Sept. 2.

Speaking after PSG's 2-0 win at Metz on Friday, which Neymar missed, Leonardo said the Ligue 1 champions would only sell the player at the right price, which Barca have yet to come up with.

"The first time we received a proposal from Barcelona for Neymar was on August 27. They have not yet given us an offer which has met our demands," Leonardo said.

"PSG's position on Neymar has always been clear: if a satisfactory offer arrives then he could leave but that is not the case. The negotiations have not broken down but there's no agreement for now because our demands have not been met."

Leonardo did not hide the fact that Neymar is keen to move from PSG, but said the Brazilian's position was not helped by his staggering price tag.

"Neymar has always made it clear that he wants to leave but no-one has enough money to buy him. And if an offer doesn't arrive which we think is worth it, he will stay," he added.

"He's an extraordinary player but his relationship with the club isn't the best right now."

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said earlier on Friday that he had grown tired of the negotiations over Neymar and would be glad when the transfer window closed.

"I am really looking forward to that day -- September 2 -- so that we can all get some rest at last and know what we have for the season as it has gone on too long," Valverde said ahead of Saturday's La Liga game at Osasuna.

"Neymar is a PSG player and as always we respect all our rivals, but I reiterate that I'm looking forward to this ending once and for all."

Valverde was then asked to rate out of 10 how bored he was with the transfer speculation surrounding Neymar and said: "Around nine and a half."

Paris St Germain are not close to reaching a deal with Barcelona that would take Neymar back to the Spanish champions as the Catalans have not met the French club's asking price for the Brazil forward, PSG's sporting director Leonardo said on Friday.

Paris St Germain are not close to reaching a deal with Barcelona that would take Neymar back to the Spanish champions as the Catalans have not met the French club's asking price for the Brazil forward, PSG's sporting director Leonardo said on Friday. Barca's attempt to re-sign Neymar two years after he joined PSG for a world record €222 million ($247.40 million) has dominated sports headlines for months, but time is running out to strike a deal before the transfer window shuts on Sept. 2. Speaking after PSG's 2-0 win at Metz on Friday, which Neymar missed, Leonardo said the Ligue 1 champions would only sell the player at the right price, which Barca have yet to come up with. "The first time we received a proposal from Barcelona for Neymar was on August 27. They have not yet given us an offer which has met our demands," Leonardo said. "PSG's position on Neymar has always been clear: if a satisfactory offer arrives then he could leave but that is not the case. The negotiations have not broken down but there's no agreement for now because our demands have not been met." Leonardo did not hide the fact that Neymar is keen to move from PSG, but said the Brazilian's position was not helped by his staggering price tag. "Neymar has always made it clear that he wants to leave but no-one has enough money to buy him. And if an offer doesn't arrive which we think is worth it, he will stay," he added. "He's an extraordinary player but his relationship with the club isn't the best right now." Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said earlier on Friday that he had grown tired of the negotiations over Neymar and would be glad when the transfer window closed. "I am really looking forward to that day -- September 2 -- so that we can all get some rest at last and know what we have for the season as it has gone on too long," Valverde said ahead of Saturday's La Liga game at Osasuna. "Neymar is a PSG player and as always we respect all our rivals, but I reiterate that I'm looking forward to this ending once and for all." Valverde was then asked to rate out of 10 how bored he was with the transfer speculation surrounding Neymar and said: "Around nine and a half."

Barca offer for Neymar has not met PSG demands: Leonardo

Neymar was left out of Paris Saint-Germain's third consecutive Ligue 1 match on Sunday as his employers await a resolution to the Brazilian's protracted transfer saga.

Neymar was declared fit to play for the first time since injuring his ankle in May by PSG coach Thomas Tuchel on the eve of Toulouse's visit to the Parc des Princes.

But the club's Qatari owners and sporting director Leonardo have sidelined him as the uncertainty over his future continues to dominate their early season landscape.

In the squad list published ahead of the 1900 GMT kick-off Neymar was marked down as "absent".

The 27-year-old wants a return to Spain, to his former club Barca who sold him to the French champions for a world record 222 million euros ($264 million at the time) in 2017.

Or to Real Madrid, who reportedly had a 100 million euros bid plus players rejected this week.

Tuchel, when quizzed about his wantaway forward on Saturday, told reporters: "He can play (against Toulouse) if the situation between him and the club is clear.... Today it's not clear, perhaps tomorrow it will be".

Pressed, the German added Neymar was "ready to play" but the final decision rested with the club's sporting director.

"Perhaps you have to speak to Leonardo," he suggested. "Neymar's had a good week (training) with all the squad, a week with a lot of work and intensity."

The European transfer window closes on September 2. Whether Neymar figures in PSG's fourth league outing next Friday at Metz could be up to the negotiators.

Neymar was left out of Paris Saint-Germain's third consecutive Ligue 1 match on Sunday as his employers await a resolution to the Brazilian's protracted transfer saga.

Neymar was left out of Paris Saint-Germain's third consecutive Ligue 1 match on Sunday as his employers await a resolution to the Brazilian's protracted transfer saga. Neymar was declared fit to play for the first time since injuring his ankle in May by PSG coach Thomas Tuchel on the eve of Toulouse's visit to the Parc des Princes. But the club's Qatari owners and sporting director Leonardo have sidelined him as the uncertainty over his future continues to dominate their early season landscape. In the squad list published ahead of the 1900 GMT kick-off Neymar was marked down as "absent". The 27-year-old wants a return to Spain, to his former club Barca who sold him to the French champions for a world record 222 million euros ($264 million at the time) in 2017. Or to Real Madrid, who reportedly had a 100 million euros bid plus players rejected this week. Tuchel, when quizzed about his wantaway forward on Saturday, told reporters: "He can play (against Toulouse) if the situation between him and the club is clear.... Today it's not clear, perhaps tomorrow it will be". Pressed, the German added Neymar was "ready to play" but the final decision rested with the club's sporting director. "Perhaps you have to speak to Leonardo," he suggested. "Neymar's had a good week (training) with all the squad, a week with a lot of work and intensity." The European transfer window closes on September 2. Whether Neymar figures in PSG's fourth league outing next Friday at Metz could be up to the negotiators.

Neymar excluded from PSG's Toulouse clash as transfer saga drags on

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