For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United.

The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky.

That feeling lasted until the French champions began to get a grip on the game and by the end of the night, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/champions-league-psg-take-charge-with-2-0-win-at-united-pogba-sent-off-197032">a 2-0 defeat in the last 16</a>, first-leg clash served to highlight the gulf that remains between this United team and the European elite.

"That's the level we want to get to" United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters. "We've been talking about top four (in the Premier League), that's one thing but we want to be at the top and Man United should be at the top.

"This is a top, top team we played against. Our players today, are disappointed, of course, but I also think they know we need to step up our level to get to the level we want to get to," added the Norwegian after suffering his first defeat since taking over 12 games ago in December.

United lost forwards Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard to muscle injuries midway through the match and replacements Alexis Sanchez and Juan Mata failed to provide the necessary spark.

PSG had to cope without the injured Neymar and Edison Cavani, two-thirds of their attack, yet remained a real threat in the final third with Julian Draxler and Angel Di Maria causing United problems.

That is the kind of strength in depth United will need to build if they are to return to being the kind of force in Europe that they were under Alex Ferguson.

"It's a reality check, you can see the strength they have when they put those players in as you talk about but that's the level we want to get to," added Solskjaer.

"And we are looking to strengthen the squad and then again we have so many young players to take a step up for next season."

The Norwegian insisted, however, that his first loss won't wreck the momentum United have built up in the Premier League.

"No, not at all because at this club we have to bounce back and we are in a tournament, the Champions League, where it's always going to be difficult, but our bread and butter is the (domestic) league so (I'm) not afraid of that.

"The reaction in the dressing room was disappointment and when we go to Paris we'll give it a go. It is a difficult mountain to climb but not impossible".

Only once since the 2010-11 season have United won a Champions League knockout stage game and, with key midfielder Paul Pogba suspended after his late red card, the odds are stacked against that changing in Paris on March 6.

For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United. The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky.

For around 20 minutes, the Champions League glory days really did feel like they were back for Manchester United. The capacity 74,000 crowd at Old Trafford was in full voice, United were attacking Paris St Germain down the flanks with speed and aggression and their opponents looked shaky. That feeling lasted until the French champions began to get a grip on the game and by the end of the night, a 2-0 defeat in the last 16, first-leg clash served to highlight the gulf that remains between this United team and the European elite. "That's the level we want to get to" United's caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told reporters. "We've been talking about top four (in the Premier League), that's one thing but we want to be at the top and Man United should be at the top. "This is a top, top team we played against. Our players today, are disappointed, of course, but I also think they know we need to step up our level to get to the level we want to get to," added the Norwegian after suffering his first defeat since taking over 12 games ago in December. United lost forwards Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard to muscle injuries midway through the match and replacements Alexis Sanchez and Juan Mata failed to provide the necessary spark. PSG had to cope without the injured Neymar and Edison Cavani, two-thirds of their attack, yet remained a real threat in the final third with Julian Draxler and Angel Di Maria causing United problems. That is the kind of strength in depth United will need to build if they are to return to being the kind of force in Europe that they were under Alex Ferguson. "It's a reality check, you can see the strength they have when they put those players in as you talk about but that's the level we want to get to," added Solskjaer. "And we are looking to strengthen the squad and then again we have so many young players to take a step up for next season." The Norwegian insisted, however, that his first loss won't wreck the momentum United have built up in the Premier League. "No, not at all because at this club we have to bounce back and we are in a tournament, the Champions League, where it's always going to be difficult, but our bread and butter is the (domestic) league so (I'm) not afraid of that. "The reaction in the dressing room was disappointment and when we go to Paris we'll give it a go. It is a difficult mountain to climb but not impossible". Only once since the 2010-11 season have United won a Champions League knockout stage game and, with key midfielder Paul Pogba suspended after his late red card, the odds are stacked against that changing in Paris on March 6.

'Reality check': Solskjaer admits PSG showed Manchester United another level

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United.&nbsp;

Uruguay striker Cavani, who has scored 192 goals for PSG, sustained a hip muscle injury in Saturday’s 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux adding to the side’s injury woes ahead of the last-16 first leg.&nbsp;

PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury, leaving the French side with only Kylian Mbappe as a world class striking option. Fullback Thomas Meunier has also been ruled out.&nbsp;

"You cannot replace quality players like this, Neymar is one of the key, key players in Europe and we miss him a lot and now we miss a second key player with Edi," Tuchel told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;

However, he did not expect the French league leaders to change their style of play.&nbsp;

"We miss two key attacking players, but to change our identity for that?...I don't know if it's the moment. We are PSG, we are used to playing offensively and creating chances," he said.&nbsp;

Tuchel added that it was wrong to expect Kylian Mbappe to make up for the injured South American pair.&nbsp;

"It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel.&nbsp;

"I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United.

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed that the club's record scorer Edinson Cavani will miss Tuesday's Champions League match away to Manchester United. Uruguay striker Cavani, who has scored 192 goals for PSG, sustained a hip muscle injury in Saturday’s 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux adding to the side’s injury woes ahead of the last-16 first leg. PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury, leaving the French side with only Kylian Mbappe as a world class striking option. Fullback Thomas Meunier has also been ruled out. "You cannot replace quality players like this, Neymar is one of the key, key players in Europe and we miss him a lot and now we miss a second key player with Edi," Tuchel told reporters on Monday. However, he did not expect the French league leaders to change their style of play. "We miss two key attacking players, but to change our identity for that?...I don't know if it's the moment. We are PSG, we are used to playing offensively and creating chances," he said. Tuchel added that it was wrong to expect Kylian Mbappe to make up for the injured South American pair. "It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel. "I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

Champions League: PSG confirm that Edinson Cavani out of Manchester United match

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday.

The report also found that teams winning groups were finishing with more points than 15 years ago and teams coming bottom with less -- all pointing to an increase in the gap between the elite clubs and the rest.

"The different indicators analysed illustrate a clear trend towards less balance and more predictability," said the Swiss-based CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) Football Observatory.

The study found that the number of "very unbalanced matches", where one team wins by three goals or more, had increased from 16.9 per cent of group matches between 2003 and 2006 to 22.9 per cent between 2015 and 2018.

During the same period, the average number of points won by the eventual group winners rose from 2.11 to 2.26 per game, while the goal difference of the group-winning teams rose from 6.38 after the six matches to 8.91.

Meanwhile, the average points-per-game of the teams finishing bottom of the groups fell from 0.59 to 0.45 and their final goal difference from -6.72 to -9.06.

"A thorough rethink is needed to preserve a sufficient level of sporting and economic balance both within the competition and in European football," the report said.

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday.

More than one in five Champions League group-stage matches in the last four seasons ended with one team winning by a three-goal margin or more, according to a report published on Monday. The report also found that teams winning groups were finishing with more points than 15 years ago and teams coming bottom with less -- all pointing to an increase in the gap between the elite clubs and the rest. "The different indicators analysed illustrate a clear trend towards less balance and more predictability," said the Swiss-based CIES (International Centre for Sports Studies) Football Observatory. The study found that the number of "very unbalanced matches", where one team wins by three goals or more, had increased from 16.9 per cent of group matches between 2003 and 2006 to 22.9 per cent between 2015 and 2018. During the same period, the average number of points won by the eventual group winners rose from 2.11 to 2.26 per game, while the goal difference of the group-winning teams rose from 6.38 after the six matches to 8.91. Meanwhile, the average points-per-game of the teams finishing bottom of the groups fell from 0.59 to 0.45 and their final goal difference from -6.72 to -9.06. "A thorough rethink is needed to preserve a sufficient level of sporting and economic balance both within the competition and in European football," the report said.

Champions League matches more one-sided now: Report

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

"It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added.&nbsp;

Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'.&nbsp;

Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford.

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Thomas Tuchel compared Manchester United's manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to a doctor ahead of their UEFA Champions League last 16 first-leg tie at Old Trafford. Tuchel spoke highly of Solskjaer's contribution to the club as United's caretaker manager during a pre-match press conference. "Obviously there is an effect. We have a (saying) in Germany if you go to the doctor and if he heals you, he's right. How he does it is we don't care. The pain goes away. He's right," said PSG coach Tuchel. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' PSG take on Manchester United for a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. "It's a big challenge to play against him and happy to meet him tomorrow," Solskjaer added. Solskjaer has won 10 of his 1 games since taking over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December, and Tuchel admits the turn around in form has been 'impressive'. Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years.

PSG's head coach Thomas Tuchel compares Solskjaer to a doctor

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday.

United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford.

As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Monday (February 11) that now is the perfect time for Manchester United to face Paris St Germain in their Champions League round-of-16 clash. Solskjaer took over as caretaker manager following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December and United have secured 10 wins in 11 games under his charge, their latest victory a 3-0 win at Fulham on Saturday. United brought in Solskjaer as caretaker until the end of the season when they will make a decision on the next permanent manager. Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' When the draw was made for this fixture, Solskjaer was still at his Norwegian club Molde but now he has the chance to savour a big European night at Old Trafford. As a player under Alex Ferguson, Solskjaer enjoyed many such nights -- including grabbing the stoppage-time winner in the 1999 final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.

Solskjaer says it is the perfect time for Manchester United to play PSG

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday.&nbsp;

PSG will enter Old Trafford reeling from key injuries after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-psg-confirm-that-edinson-cavani-out-of-manchester-united-match-196879">Edinson Cavani</a> and Thomas Meunier joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out of the first-leg of last 16 against Manchester United.&nbsp;

"Any team that have are missing players like Neymar, (Edinson) Cavani, (Thomas) Meunier will feel the effect but that will give any of the other players a chance," said Solskjaer during a pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"So for me it makes it maybe more unpredictable for us who they're going to play because when you've seen that front three for the whole season you know what to expect," he added.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cannot-replace-neymar-and-cavani-says-psg-coach-thomas-tuchel-ahead-of-ucl-tie-at-manchester-united-196891">'Cannot replace' Neymar and Cavani, says PSG coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of UCL tie at Manchester United</a>

"So this time around we're guessing a little bit how they're going to come. But we've got a good guesstimate on how they're approaching this game," said Solskjaer.&nbsp;

Solskjaer was in Lyon last weekend with assistant manager Mike Phelan to watch PSG in action in Ligue 1 but the Norwegian manager said he could not judge Thomas Tuchel's side based on their league form alone.&nbsp;

"It is difficult to compare games because when they play in the league, they know they are going to win it anyway," Solskjaer said ahead of the first leg of their last-16 meeting.

"So they approach it differently to the Champions League. You try to do due diligence."

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"We've given ourselves the best possible opportunity because of the way we've come into this game," Ole adds. "We're confident and we're looking like a team. If there was ever a time to go into big games, it's now." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/D4BIyrFrCZ">pic.twitter.com/D4BIyrFrCZ</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1094964820250685445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Let's do this, Reds! 🙌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1095007556345479169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are&nbsp;hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. &nbsp;

United's 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday made it 10 wins and a draw from the 11 games since Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho in mid-December. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that Paris St Germain will be unpredictable without their key players in the UEFA Champions League clash against the French club on Wednesday. PSG will enter Old Trafford reeling from key injuries after Edinson Cavani and Thomas Meunier joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out of the first-leg of last 16 against Manchester United. "Any team that have are missing players like Neymar, (Edinson) Cavani, (Thomas) Meunier will feel the effect but that will give any of the other players a chance," said Solskjaer during a pre-match press conference. "So for me it makes it maybe more unpredictable for us who they're going to play because when you've seen that front three for the whole season you know what to expect," he added. Also Read: 'Cannot replace' Neymar and Cavani, says PSG coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of UCL tie at Manchester United "So this time around we're guessing a little bit how they're going to come. But we've got a good guesstimate on how they're approaching this game," said Solskjaer. Solskjaer was in Lyon last weekend with assistant manager Mike Phelan to watch PSG in action in Ligue 1 but the Norwegian manager said he could not judge Thomas Tuchel's side based on their league form alone. "It is difficult to compare games because when they play in the league, they know they are going to win it anyway," Solskjaer said ahead of the first leg of their last-16 meeting. "So they approach it differently to the Champions League. You try to do due diligence." "We've given ourselves the best possible opportunity because of the way we've come into this game," Ole adds. "We're confident and we're looking like a team. If there was ever a time to go into big games, it's now." #MUFC pic.twitter.com/D4BIyrFrCZ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 11, 2019 × Let's do this, Reds! 🙌 #MUFC #UCL — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 11, 2019 × Solskjaer says Man Utd's recent form has put them in the best possible position and they are hoping to make the quarter-finals for the first time in five years. United's 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday made it 10 wins and a draw from the 11 games since Solskjaer replaced Jose Mourinho in mid-December.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'

Paris Saint-Germain's German footballer Julian Draxler admitted that Neymar and Edinson Cavani will be missed but he is confident that his team will 'draw strength from the group' for their round-of-16 first-leg tie against Manchester United on Wednesday.&nbsp;

PSG are reeling from key injuries after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cannot-replace-neymar-and-cavani-says-psg-coach-thomas-tuchel-ahead-of-ucl-tie-at-manchester-united-196891">Edinson Cavani and Thomas Meunier</a> joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out.&nbsp;

While Draxler could help to fill the void left by Neymar and Cavani but he asked his teammates to focus on themselves ahead of the match at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

"This Round of 16 tie will be different from last year's. It's up to us to show that we are capable of winning," said Draxler during the pre-match press conference.&nbsp;

"I've sent a message to and I spoke to Cavani just after the game we played at home in Paris and we know that we're going to miss him. Of course, I am disappointed that Neymar, Cavani and Meunier are out."

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-says-missing-psg-stars-makes-them-unpredictable-196902">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable'</a>

"But we have a job to do tomorrow night, we can do it," he added.&nbsp;

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel said that it is unfair to expect one player to make up for the injured players.&nbsp;

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🎙️ Julian Draxler: "It's a match that everybody wants to watch. We have to do our talking on the pitch." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGlive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGlive</a> <a href="https://t.co/BZJ1jT1QHo">pic.twitter.com/BZJ1jT1QHo</a>
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"It's not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can't do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel.&nbsp;

"I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain's German footballer Julian Draxler admitted that Neymar and Edinson Cavani will be missed but he is confident that his team will 'draw strength from the group' for their round-of-16 first-leg tie against Manchester United on Wednesday.

Paris Saint-Germain's German footballer Julian Draxler admitted that Neymar and Edinson Cavani will be missed but he is confident that his team will 'draw strength from the group' for their round-of-16 first-leg tie against Manchester United on Wednesday. PSG are reeling from key injuries after Edinson Cavani and Thomas Meunier joined star striker Neymar in being ruled out. While Draxler could help to fill the void left by Neymar and Cavani but he asked his teammates to focus on themselves ahead of the match at Old Trafford. "This Round of 16 tie will be different from last year's. It's up to us to show that we are capable of winning," said Draxler during the pre-match press conference. "I've sent a message to and I spoke to Cavani just after the game we played at home in Paris and we know that we're going to miss him. Of course, I am disappointed that Neymar, Cavani and Meunier are out." Also Read: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says missing PSG stars makes them 'unpredictable' "But we have a job to do tomorrow night, we can do it," he added. Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel said that it is unfair to expect one player to make up for the injured players. 🎙️ Julian Draxler: "It's a match that everybody wants to watch. We have to do our talking on the pitch." #PSGlive pic.twitter.com/BZJ1jT1QHo — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 11, 2019 × "It's not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can't do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel. "I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

'We have a job to do': Julian Draxler asks PSG to focus on UCL tie rather than missing stars

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar and Edinson Cavani are irreplaceable ahead of PSG's last 16 UEFA Champions League tie against Manchester United.&nbsp;

PSG's task against confident Man Utd is made no easier by injuries to key players, with forwards <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-psg-confirm-that-edinson-cavani-out-of-manchester-united-match-196879">Edinson Cavani</a> and Neymar sidelined as well as right-back Thomas Meunier.&nbsp;

"You cannot replace quality players like this. Neymar is the key player. One of the key, key players in Europe and we cannot replace and of course we miss him a lot," said PSG coach Tuchel.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"And now we miss a second key player with Eddie (Edinson Cavani)," he added.&nbsp;

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LIVE 🎙️ <a href="https://twitter.com/TTuchelofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TTuchelofficial</a>'s pre-match press conference ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUPSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUPSG</a>: 
 
"<a href="https://twitter.com/KMbappe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KMbappe</a>'s job isn't to replace <a href="https://twitter.com/neymarjr?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@neymarjr</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECavaniOfficial</a>. He has to play his game."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGlive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGlive</a> <a href="https://t.co/3Y9Ufr4sNs">pic.twitter.com/3Y9Ufr4sNs</a>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1095017882814169088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PSG's Uruguayan striker Cavani has been sidelined after sustaining a hip muscle injury in Saturday's 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux and PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury.&nbsp;

The absence of the world's most expensive player, Neymar, will put the spotlight on the world's most expensive teenager, Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

While Tuchel said that it is unfair to expect Mbappe to make up for the injured players.&nbsp;

"It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel.&nbsp;

"I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."&nbsp;

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar and Edinson Cavani are irreplaceable ahead of PSG's last 16 UEFA Champions League tie against Manchester United.

Paris St Germain coach Thomas Tuchel said that Neymar and Edinson Cavani are irreplaceable ahead of PSG's last 16 UEFA Champions League tie against Manchester United. PSG's task against confident Man Utd is made no easier by injuries to key players, with forwards Edinson Cavani and Neymar sidelined as well as right-back Thomas Meunier. "You cannot replace quality players like this. Neymar is the key player. One of the key, key players in Europe and we cannot replace and of course we miss him a lot," said PSG coach Tuchel. "And now we miss a second key player with Eddie (Edinson Cavani)," he added. LIVE 🎙️ @TTuchelofficial's pre-match press conference ahead of #MUPSG: "@KMbappe's job isn't to replace @neymarjr or @ECavaniOfficial. He has to play his game."#PSGlive pic.twitter.com/3Y9Ufr4sNs — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) February 11, 2019 × PSG's Uruguayan striker Cavani has been sidelined after sustaining a hip muscle injury in Saturday's 1-0 Ligue 1 victory over Girondins de Bordeaux and PSG are already without Neymar, who was ruled out with a foot injury. The absence of the world's most expensive player, Neymar, will put the spotlight on the world's most expensive teenager, Kylian Mbappe. While Tuchel said that it is unfair to expect Mbappe to make up for the injured players. "It’s not really his job to replace Cavani and Neymar, and he can’t do all three things at the same time," said Tuchel. "I want us to play with courage, play as a team, together, tight knit, fight, ready to suffer. And I think I don’t really want to talk about the result but we want to score perhaps more than one (goal)."

'Cannot replace' Neymar and Cavani, says PSG coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of UCL tie at Manchester United

Paris St-Germain got back to winning ways in Ligue 1 on Saturday when a Kylian Mbappe goal gave them a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nantes and condemned the visitors to their 15th straight loss against the capital club.

Mbappe, who celebrated his 20th birthday on Thursday, got his 13th goal of the season midway through the second half when he turned home a deflected corner from Angel Di Maria.

The French champions won their first 14 league games but then drew their next two and the three points at home to Nantes enabled them to extend their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table to 13 points.

Second-place Lille fell further behind when they let a first-half lead slip at home to Toulouse.

Rafael Leao put Lille ahead after 17 minutes but two second-half penalties from Max-Alain Gradel gave Toulouse only their second league win in 13 games stretching back to the first day of September.

The third and fourth-placed sides, Olympique Lyonnais and Montpellier, also fell back when they drew 1-1.

Captain Nabil Fekir put the visitors from Lyon ahead after 67 minutes but Ruben Aguilar, with his first Ligue 1 goal in 47 games, evened the score for Montpellier nine minutes from the final whistle.

PSG now lead Ligue 1 with 47 points, 13 clear of Lille, 15 ahead of Lyon and 17 in front of Montpellier. The capital club has played 17 games, two fewer than Lille, one fewer than Lyon and the same as Montpellier.

At the other end of the table, Guingamp boosted their survival chances when they won 2-0 at fellow strugglers AS Monaco.

Two goals in seven minutes midway through the second half from Marcus Thuram and Nolan Roux gave Guingamp their first league win in 10 games.

It was not enough to lift them out of the last place but they moved on to 11 points, two behind Thierry Henry's side.

Elsewhere, a brace from Jordan Siebatcheu helped Stade Rennais to a 4-0 win over Nimes, St-Etienne beat Dijon 3-0, and Strasbourg triumphed 2-0 at home to Nice.

Reims shared the points with Caen in a 2-2 draw and Olympique de Marseille drew 1-1 at Angers.

Paris St-Germain got back to winning ways in Ligue 1 on Saturday when a Kylian Mbappe goal gave them a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nantes and condemned the visitors to their 15th straight loss against the capital club.

Paris St-Germain got back to winning ways in Ligue 1 on Saturday when a Kylian Mbappe goal gave them a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nantes and condemned the visitors to their 15th straight loss against the capital club. Mbappe, who celebrated his 20th birthday on Thursday, got his 13th goal of the season midway through the second half when he turned home a deflected corner from Angel Di Maria. The French champions won their first 14 league games but then drew their next two and the three points at home to Nantes enabled them to extend their lead at the top of the Ligue 1 table to 13 points. Second-place Lille fell further behind when they let a first-half lead slip at home to Toulouse. Rafael Leao put Lille ahead after 17 minutes but two second-half penalties from Max-Alain Gradel gave Toulouse only their second league win in 13 games stretching back to the first day of September. The third and fourth-placed sides, Olympique Lyonnais and Montpellier, also fell back when they drew 1-1. Captain Nabil Fekir put the visitors from Lyon ahead after 67 minutes but Ruben Aguilar, with his first Ligue 1 goal in 47 games, evened the score for Montpellier nine minutes from the final whistle. PSG now lead Ligue 1 with 47 points, 13 clear of Lille, 15 ahead of Lyon and 17 in front of Montpellier. The capital club has played 17 games, two fewer than Lille, one fewer than Lyon and the same as Montpellier. At the other end of the table, Guingamp boosted their survival chances when they won 2-0 at fellow strugglers AS Monaco. Two goals in seven minutes midway through the second half from Marcus Thuram and Nolan Roux gave Guingamp their first league win in 10 games. It was not enough to lift them out of the last place but they moved on to 11 points, two behind Thierry Henry's side. Elsewhere, a brace from Jordan Siebatcheu helped Stade Rennais to a 4-0 win over Nimes, St-Etienne beat Dijon 3-0, and Strasbourg triumphed 2-0 at home to Nice. Reims shared the points with Caen in a 2-2 draw and Olympique de Marseille drew 1-1 at Angers.

PSG return to winning ways with triumph over Nantes

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday.

PSG's star striker posted Instagram images of himself in Brazil with his family on Thursday.&nbsp;

Neymar was rested for the club's previous match, against Orleans in the French League Cup on Tuesday because of thigh pains.

Asked on Friday, on the eve of a Ligue 1 match against Nantes, if the club had signed off on Neymar's early departure, Tuchel answered "Yes."

The player "left with my permission," the coach said adding, with a laugh: "it's better that way!"&nbsp;

Neymar's last appearance was against Red Star Belgrade in a key Champions League match on December 11 when he scored as PSG won 4-1 to secure a place in the last 16.

"Ney played injured against Belgrade," Tuchel said. "It was a risk but it was super important to take the risk. We are glad that things were not worse after the match."

"He wants to play every game, against Orleans and Nantes," the German added. "It's always the same with him, but it's time to be smart and take no chances with this injury."

Tuchel said Neymar could now "stay relaxed and rest for two weeks".

PSG are 10 points clear and are unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. Visiting Nantes are mired in mid table under former PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic.&nbsp;

After Saturday, PSG's next match is against Pontlivy, from the regional fifth division, in the French Cup on January 6. Their next league match is at Amiens on January 12.

Tuchel said he was hoping to use the break to strengthen his squad.

PSG seem likely to lose midfielder Adrien Rabiot and have yet to entirely replace central defender Thiago Motta, who retired in the summer but Tuchel said he wanted duplicates of two of the club's current starters.

"It's easy," Tuchel said. "Another Marco Verratti and another Marquinhos and I'll be happy."

"Top lads with a personality and the highest quality are hard to find."

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday.

Neymar, who is already on holiday in Brazil, is skipping Paris Saint-Germain's last match of the year "with my permission" manager Thomas Tuchel told a press conference in Paris on Friday. PSG's star striker posted Instagram images of himself in Brazil with his family on Thursday. Neymar was rested for the club's previous match, against Orleans in the French League Cup on Tuesday because of thigh pains. Asked on Friday, on the eve of a Ligue 1 match against Nantes, if the club had signed off on Neymar's early departure, Tuchel answered "Yes." The player "left with my permission," the coach said adding, with a laugh: "it's better that way!" Neymar's last appearance was against Red Star Belgrade in a key Champions League match on December 11 when he scored as PSG won 4-1 to secure a place in the last 16. "Ney played injured against Belgrade," Tuchel said. "It was a risk but it was super important to take the risk. We are glad that things were not worse after the match." "He wants to play every game, against Orleans and Nantes," the German added. "It's always the same with him, but it's time to be smart and take no chances with this injury." Tuchel said Neymar could now "stay relaxed and rest for two weeks". PSG are 10 points clear and are unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. Visiting Nantes are mired in mid table under former PSG coach Vahid Halilhodzic. After Saturday, PSG's next match is against Pontlivy, from the regional fifth division, in the French Cup on January 6. Their next league match is at Amiens on January 12. Tuchel said he was hoping to use the break to strengthen his squad. PSG seem likely to lose midfielder Adrien Rabiot and have yet to entirely replace central defender Thiago Motta, who retired in the summer but Tuchel said he wanted duplicates of two of the club's current starters. "It's easy," Tuchel said. "Another Marco Verratti and another Marquinhos and I'll be happy." "Top lads with a personality and the highest quality are hard to find."

Neymar went home early 'with my permission', says Tuchel

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is not happy after receiving six yellow cards during Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-on-the-ropes-as-psg-close-in-on-champions-league-knockouts-180113">loss against Paris Saint Germain</a>.

"<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-made-to-look-like-butchers-against-psg-says-klopp-180125">We looked like Butchers</a>' Jurgen Klopp complains of PSG's 'playacting' during the French club's 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Champions League.

The Parc des Princes contest was marked by a number of interruptions with last season's finalists Liverpool committing 20 fouls.

While addressing the media, Klopp said, "The number of interruptions in the game was just not cool."

"Two times in a row we won the fair play, what is it table, in England. And tonight we like butchers when you at the yellow cards we had," he added.

"So it was clever of PSG, of Neymar, specially him yeah, but a lot of other players went down like it was really something serious."

Defeat left the English club's hopes of reaching the last 16 hanging in the balance.

Liverpool are third in Group C on six points, two behind PSG and three behind Napoli, who they face at Anfield in the final round of matches on Dec. 11.

Juergen Klopp's side need a 1-0 win, or a victory by a two-goal margin or more, to progress.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is not happy after receiving six yellow cards during Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League loss against Paris Saint Germain. "We looked like Butchers' Jurgen Klopp complains of PSG's 'playacting' during the French club's 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Champions League.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is not happy after receiving six yellow cards during Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League loss against Paris Saint Germain. "We looked like Butchers' Jurgen Klopp complains of PSG's 'playacting' during the French club's 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Champions League. The Parc des Princes contest was marked by a number of interruptions with last season's finalists Liverpool committing 20 fouls. While addressing the media, Klopp said, "The number of interruptions in the game was just not cool." "Two times in a row we won the fair play, what is it table, in England. And tonight we like butchers when you at the yellow cards we had," he added. "So it was clever of PSG, of Neymar, specially him yeah, but a lot of other players went down like it was really something serious." Defeat left the English club's hopes of reaching the last 16 hanging in the balance. Liverpool are third in Group C on six points, two behind PSG and three behind Napoli, who they face at Anfield in the final round of matches on Dec. 11. Juergen Klopp's side need a 1-0 win, or a victory by a two-goal margin or more, to progress.

'It was clever of Neymar': Juergen Klopp complains of PSG playacting

Paris St&nbsp;Germain's head coach confirmed that two of his star players Neymar and Kylian Mbappe will be fit for their side's crunch Champions League match with Liverpool.

Thomas Tuchel told a news conference on Tuesday (November 27) that Brazilian Neymar and World Cup winner Mbappe are 'fit and ready to go', which should be a boost for the runaway French league leaders.

The two attackers missed PSG's 1-0 weekend victory over Toulouse, leaving it to Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani to score the team's winning goal.

PSG lost 3-2 to Liverpool when the teams met in September through an injury-time winner by Firmino, but mixed results for both sides since leave them eager for a win when they play their Group C match on Wednesday (November 28) at the Parc de Princes stadium in Paris.

Italian side Napoli lead the group on head-to-head, with Liverpool in second and PSG third.

Red Star Belgrade lie in fourth but are also in contention to qualify from the group after a shock 2-0 win over Liverpool earlier this month.

Paris St Germain's head coach confirmed that two of his star players Neymar and Kylian Mbappe will be fit for their side's crunch Champions League match with Liverpool.

Paris St Germain's head coach confirmed that two of his star players Neymar and Kylian Mbappe will be fit for their side's crunch Champions League match with Liverpool. Thomas Tuchel told a news conference on Tuesday (November 27) that Brazilian Neymar and World Cup winner Mbappe are 'fit and ready to go', which should be a boost for the runaway French league leaders. The two attackers missed PSG's 1-0 weekend victory over Toulouse, leaving it to Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani to score the team's winning goal. PSG lost 3-2 to Liverpool when the teams met in September through an injury-time winner by Firmino, but mixed results for both sides since leave them eager for a win when they play their Group C match on Wednesday (November 28) at the Parc de Princes stadium in Paris. Italian side Napoli lead the group on head-to-head, with Liverpool in second and PSG third. Red Star Belgrade lie in fourth but are also in contention to qualify from the group after a shock 2-0 win over Liverpool earlier this month.

UEFA Champions League: Neymar, Kylian Mbappe prepare for crucial Liverpool clash

France's Human Rights League (LDH) said on Thursday it would file a legal complaint against soccer club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) after an investigative website reported its scouts had for years listed the ethnic origins of young recruits.

The website, Mediapart, which based its allegations on the so-called "Football Leaks' documents, claimed PSG had until the spring of 2018 asked recruiters to record the origin of players in four categories: "Francais" (French), "Maghrebin" (North African), "Antillais" (West Indian), and "Afrique noire" (Black African).

It is against French law to collect personal data which reveals racial or ethnic origins of individuals.

In 2014, the director of the club's recruitment unit across the country, excluding the Paris region, defended at a meeting the ethnic vision of the team, justifying a discriminatory recruitment policy, Mediapart said.

The comments triggered protests at the club, but despite being summoned by management, the director was never punished, Mediapart said.

Qatari-owned PSG acknowledged and condemned on Thursday the existence of the ethnic identity files.

"The general management of the club never knew of an ethnic registration system within a recruitment department or possessed any such forms.

"Paris Saint-Germain confirms that forms with illegal contents were used between 2013 and 2018 by the recruitment cell of the training academy dedicated to regions outside Ile-de-France (Paris area). These forms were an individual initiative of the head of this department," it said.

In a statement, the LDH said any such system was deeply racist and discriminatory.

"These practices, if confirmed, are illegal," it said. "This is why the Human Rights League has decided to file to the public prosecutor a complaint ... to punish the culprits."

France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu warned of consequences and said she had asked French football authorities to investigate the case.

"If this is proved true, they are punishable by disciplinary or even criminal punishment. It is not acceptable that people are identified and recruited according to their skin colour or origin," she said.

If found guilty those responsible could face five years in jail and a €300,000 fine.

It is not the first time the issue has come up in French soccer. In 2011, Mediapart revealed that the national coach at the time, Laurent Blanc, had discussed with other officials a project to enforce racial quotas in youth academies.

France's Human Rights League (LDH) said on Thursday it would file a legal complaint against soccer club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) after an investigative website reported its scouts had for years listed the ethnic origins of young recruits.

France's Human Rights League (LDH) said on Thursday it would file a legal complaint against soccer club Paris Saint Germain (PSG) after an investigative website reported its scouts had for years listed the ethnic origins of young recruits. The website, Mediapart, which based its allegations on the so-called "Football Leaks' documents, claimed PSG had until the spring of 2018 asked recruiters to record the origin of players in four categories: "Francais" (French), "Maghrebin" (North African), "Antillais" (West Indian), and "Afrique noire" (Black African). It is against French law to collect personal data which reveals racial or ethnic origins of individuals. In 2014, the director of the club's recruitment unit across the country, excluding the Paris region, defended at a meeting the ethnic vision of the team, justifying a discriminatory recruitment policy, Mediapart said. The comments triggered protests at the club, but despite being summoned by management, the director was never punished, Mediapart said. Qatari-owned PSG acknowledged and condemned on Thursday the existence of the ethnic identity files. "The general management of the club never knew of an ethnic registration system within a recruitment department or possessed any such forms. "Paris Saint-Germain confirms that forms with illegal contents were used between 2013 and 2018 by the recruitment cell of the training academy dedicated to regions outside Ile-de-France (Paris area). These forms were an individual initiative of the head of this department," it said. In a statement, the LDH said any such system was deeply racist and discriminatory. "These practices, if confirmed, are illegal," it said. "This is why the Human Rights League has decided to file to the public prosecutor a complaint ... to punish the culprits." France's Sports Minister Roxana Maracineanu warned of consequences and said she had asked French football authorities to investigate the case. "If this is proved true, they are punishable by disciplinary or even criminal punishment. It is not acceptable that people are identified and recruited according to their skin colour or origin," she said. If found guilty those responsible could face five years in jail and a €300,000 fine. It is not the first time the issue has come up in French soccer. In 2011, Mediapart revealed that the national coach at the time, Laurent Blanc, had discussed with other officials a project to enforce racial quotas in youth academies.

France's PSG club faces complaint over ethnic origin recruitment policy

World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe scored four goals in 14 second-half minutes to lead Paris St Germain to a 5-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday as they became the first team in Ligue 1 history to win their first nine games.

PSG, who were flattered by the scoreline, took their goal tally to 32 as they moved eight points clear at the top after a bruising match where both teams finished the first half with 10 men.

Lyonnais, who had to substitute two players before halftime because of injury, more than held their own for the first hour and hit the post with the score at 1-0.

Brazilian Neymar converted a penalty to give&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;a ninth-minute lead but the game took a dramatic turn when the hosts had Presnel Kimpembe sent off in the 32nd minute for a dangerous studs-up tackle on Tanguy Ndombele.

The referee initially gave a yellow card but changed it to red after a VAR review.

The numbers were evened up in first-half stoppage time after Lucas Tousart was given a second yellow card for tripping Mbappe and was sent off for the second game in a row.

Lyonnais nearly snatched an equaliser in extraordinary circumstances after halftime when&nbsp;PSG defender Thiago Silva fired a clearance straight at Maxwell Cornet and the ball came off him and struck the foot of the post.

Mbappe, who until then had been anonymous, also hit the post from the next move and shortly afterwards the floodgates opened.

The 19-year-old extended&nbsp;PSG's lead in the 61st minute with a shot which went in off both posts and then tapped in a short pass from Marquinhos after Lyonnais failed to clear the ball.

He completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute after Neymar sent him clear of the defence and he ran on to finish emphatically.

Five minutes later, he drilled home the ball after it ricocheted around the Lyonnais penalty area.

AS Monaco's dismal season continued with a 2-1 home defeat by Rennes, leaving last season's runners-up 18th in the 20-team table with six points.

Damien Da Silva took advantage of poor defending to give Rennes a 14th-minute lead and Monaco had Andrea Raggi sent off at the end of the first half for aiming a punch at Clement Grenier at a corner.

Radamel Falcao levelled four minutes after the restart but Hatem Ben Arfa's long-range drive sealed Monaco's fate 13 minutes from time.

Nantes's new coach Vahid Halilhodzic had an awful debut at Bordeaux as his side conceded twice in the first eight minutes on the way to a 3-0 defeat. The 66-year-old former Japan and Algeria coach replaced Miguel Cardoso on Tuesday.

Olympique Marseille moved up to third (16 points) by beating Caen 2-0 with first-half goals from Kostas Mitroglou and Florian Thauvin.

World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe scored four goals in 14 second-half minutes to lead Paris St Germain to a 5-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday as they became the first team in Ligue 1 history to win their first nine games.

World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe scored four goals in 14 second-half minutes to lead Paris St Germain to a 5-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday as they became the first team in Ligue 1 history to win their first nine games. PSG, who were flattered by the scoreline, took their goal tally to 32 as they moved eight points clear at the top after a bruising match where both teams finished the first half with 10 men. Lyonnais, who had to substitute two players before halftime because of injury, more than held their own for the first hour and hit the post with the score at 1-0. Brazilian Neymar converted a penalty to give PSG a ninth-minute lead but the game took a dramatic turn when the hosts had Presnel Kimpembe sent off in the 32nd minute for a dangerous studs-up tackle on Tanguy Ndombele. The referee initially gave a yellow card but changed it to red after a VAR review. The numbers were evened up in first-half stoppage time after Lucas Tousart was given a second yellow card for tripping Mbappe and was sent off for the second game in a row. Lyonnais nearly snatched an equaliser in extraordinary circumstances after halftime when PSG defender Thiago Silva fired a clearance straight at Maxwell Cornet and the ball came off him and struck the foot of the post. Mbappe, who until then had been anonymous, also hit the post from the next move and shortly afterwards the floodgates opened. The 19-year-old extended PSG's lead in the 61st minute with a shot which went in off both posts and then tapped in a short pass from Marquinhos after Lyonnais failed to clear the ball. He completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute after Neymar sent him clear of the defence and he ran on to finish emphatically. Five minutes later, he drilled home the ball after it ricocheted around the Lyonnais penalty area. AS Monaco's dismal season continued with a 2-1 home defeat by Rennes, leaving last season's runners-up 18th in the 20-team table with six points. Damien Da Silva took advantage of poor defending to give Rennes a 14th-minute lead and Monaco had Andrea Raggi sent off at the end of the first half for aiming a punch at Clement Grenier at a corner. Radamel Falcao levelled four minutes after the restart but Hatem Ben Arfa's long-range drive sealed Monaco's fate 13 minutes from time. Nantes's new coach Vahid Halilhodzic had an awful debut at Bordeaux as his side conceded twice in the first eight minutes on the way to a 3-0 defeat. The 66-year-old former Japan and Algeria coach replaced Miguel Cardoso on Tuesday. Olympique Marseille moved up to third (16 points) by beating Caen 2-0 with first-half goals from Kostas Mitroglou and Florian Thauvin.

Mbappe scores four in 14 minutes in PSG rout

Paris St Germain stretched their perfect Ligue 1 start to six wins after coming from behind to beat Rennes 3-1 away in a rip-roaring clash on Sunday.&nbsp;

The result left PSG top of the French league on a maximum 18 points, five clear of second-placed Lille, after Angel Di Maria and Thomas Meunier cancelled out an early Adrian Rabiot own goal which fired the adventurous home side ahead.&nbsp;

Second half substitute Eric Choupo-Moting added the third in the closing stages for the visitors, who rebounded from a 3-2 Champions League defeat by Liverpool on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Roared on by their vocal fans, Rennes twice went close before they stunned the more fancied visitors in the 11th minute when towering striker Mbaye Niang glanced on an inswinging corner which cannoned into the net off Rabiot.

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🆕📷✊ Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting celebrates his first goal for PSG!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRFCPSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRFCPSG</a> <a href="https://t.co/iVQ7flOZNp">pic.twitter.com/iVQ7flOZNp</a>
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The visitors quickly regained their composure and levelled on the stroke of halftime thanks to a superb Di Maria strike, the Argentina midfielder unleashing a low shot after Edinson Cavani's clever dummy from a Julian Draxler cut-back.

PSG continued to pile on the pressure after the break, with Cavani hitting the post and Rennes twice clearing off the line in a frantic goalmouth scramble before Meunier turned the match on its head with a fine finish.&nbsp;

The Belgium international drilled his shot from just inside the penalty area into the bottom right corner of the net after a defence-splitting pass from Neymar, who came to life after a quiet opening half.

Rennes threw men forward in search of an equaliser and were punished after Choupo-Moting volleyed home from close range to put the icing on the cake for PSG.&nbsp;

Stoppage time drew a warm round of applause from the home crowd when a schoolboy fan got past security stewards to embrace Neymar, as the Brazil forward gifted him his jersey before ushering the tearful youngster off the pitch.

Paris St Germain stretched their perfect Ligue 1 start to six wins after coming from behind to beat Rennes 3-1 away in a rip-roaring clash on Sunday. The result left PSG top of the French league on a maximum 18 points, five clear of second-placed Lille, after Angel Di Maria and Thomas Meunier cancelled out an early Adrian Rabiot own goal which fired the adventurous home side ahead.

Paris St Germain stretched their perfect Ligue 1 start to six wins after coming from behind to beat Rennes 3-1 away in a rip-roaring clash on Sunday. The result left PSG top of the French league on a maximum 18 points, five clear of second-placed Lille, after Angel Di Maria and Thomas Meunier cancelled out an early Adrian Rabiot own goal which fired the adventurous home side ahead. Second half substitute Eric Choupo-Moting added the third in the closing stages for the visitors, who rebounded from a 3-2 Champions League defeat by Liverpool on Tuesday. Roared on by their vocal fans, Rennes twice went close before they stunned the more fancied visitors in the 11th minute when towering striker Mbaye Niang glanced on an inswinging corner which cannoned into the net off Rabiot. 🆕📷✊ Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting celebrates his first goal for PSG!!! #SRFCPSG pic.twitter.com/iVQ7flOZNp — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) September 23, 2018 × The visitors quickly regained their composure and levelled on the stroke of halftime thanks to a superb Di Maria strike, the Argentina midfielder unleashing a low shot after Edinson Cavani's clever dummy from a Julian Draxler cut-back. PSG continued to pile on the pressure after the break, with Cavani hitting the post and Rennes twice clearing off the line in a frantic goalmouth scramble before Meunier turned the match on its head with a fine finish. The Belgium international drilled his shot from just inside the penalty area into the bottom right corner of the net after a defence-splitting pass from Neymar, who came to life after a quiet opening half. Rennes threw men forward in search of an equaliser and were punished after Choupo-Moting volleyed home from close range to put the icing on the cake for PSG. Stoppage time drew a warm round of applause from the home crowd when a schoolboy fan got past security stewards to embrace Neymar, as the Brazil forward gifted him his jersey before ushering the tearful youngster off the pitch.

PSG fight back to maintain perfect start with 3-1 win at Rennes

Neymar&#39;s broken foot and sprained ankle will keep him out of action for at least six weeks, his father said on Tuesday, but no decision has yet been made on whether surgery will be required to repair the damage.

The world&#39;s most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday&#39;s 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain&#39;s arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille and the Brazilian was in tears as he was carried off the pitch at Parc de Princes.

His father said the damage was such that Neymar would definitely miss next week&#39;s Champions League encounter against Real Madrid.

&quot;PSG know that they won&#39;t have Neymar in the next few games and that they won&#39;t have Neymar for the next six weeks at least,&quot; he told ESPN Brasil.

&quot;Because this treatment is going to take six to eight weeks, we know that, whether it is surgery or conventional, it will be six or eight weeks.&quot;

Neymar Senior said his son and the French club were waiting to see the Brazil&#39;s national team doctor before deciding whether or not the forward needed surgery.

Brazil&#39;s most important player in recent years, Neymar is a key part of the squad that will head to the World Cup finals in Russia in June.

&quot;They will decide together,&quot; Neymar Sr said. &quot;It is a difficult time for us. We don&#39;t want to be in this situation. But we have to accept it and help Neymar as best we can.&quot;

The comments made live on air to a sports talk show contradicted those of Paris St Germain manager Unai Emery, who had said the 26-year old could be ready for the season-defining clash against Madrid.

PSG trail Real 3-1 ahead of the last 16 second-leg game in Paris on March 6.

Neymar has scored 28 goals and provided 16 assists for PSG this season.

The world's most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday's 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain's arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille

Neymar's broken foot and sprained ankle will keep him out of action for at least six weeks, his father said on Tuesday, but no decision has yet been made on whether surgery will be required to repair the damage. The world's most expensive footballer suffered the injury during Sunday's 3-1 Ligue 1 win over Paris Saint Germain's arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille and the Brazilian was in tears as he was carried off the pitch at Parc de Princes. His father said the damage was such that Neymar would definitely miss next week's Champions League encounter against Real Madrid. "PSG know that they won't have Neymar in the next few games and that they won't have Neymar for the next six weeks at least," he told ESPN Brasil. "Because this treatment is going to take six to eight weeks, we know that, whether it is surgery or conventional, it will be six or eight weeks." Neymar Senior said his son and the French club were waiting to see the Brazil's national team doctor before deciding whether or not the forward needed surgery. Brazil's most important player in recent years, Neymar is a key part of the squad that will head to the World Cup finals in Russia in June. "They will decide together," Neymar Sr said. "It is a difficult time for us. We don't want to be in this situation. But we have to accept it and help Neymar as best we can." The comments made live on air to a sports talk show contradicted those of Paris St Germain manager Unai Emery, who had said the 26-year old could be ready for the season-defining clash against Madrid. PSG trail Real 3-1 ahead of the last 16 second-leg game in Paris on March 6. Neymar has scored 28 goals and provided 16 assists for PSG this season.

Football: Neymar Jr out for six to eight weeks, says Neymar Sr

When the whole world is celebrating valentines day, football fanatics will definitely ditch their dates as it is Champions League night.

Now, if the boy chooses to watch this clash over his girl then he might get dumped by his girlfriend.

But this football match is worth that, believe me, there is no way to miss the Neymar-Ronaldo rivalry tonight as it is impossible not to&nbsp;see this tie as a confrontation between the global superstars on each side in Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.

The biggest clash of 2018 till now is set to start. Real Madrid vs Paris Saint Germain and Liverpool vs Porto.

Real Madrid vs Paris Saint Germain

Champions league is back and Zinedine Zidane is hoping the Champions League will again bring out the best in Real Madrid.

The defending champions are set to face the formidable Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday&#39;s last 16, first leg.

Although, Real Madrid are floundering in La Liga this season, sitting in fourth place, 17 points adrift of leaders Barcelona.

The current performance has even called into question Zidane&#39;s future as coach. Zidane has been going through the toughest period of his short managerial career.

On the other hand, PSG will look forward to winning the contest with a revenge hypothesis as they will never forget the 6-1 humiliation they suffered in Barcelona at the same stage of last year&#39;s Champions League.

PSG fans are hoping there can be no repeat of such an embarrassing defeat, especially with Neymar -- who masterminded that Barcelona comeback -- now in their ranks.

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Kylian Mbapp&eacute;, Edinson Cavani &amp; Neymar have scored 16 of Paris&#39; 25 goals in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> this season... 
 
Best trio in the competition? ???????????? <a href="https://t.co/poIkc5dn5t">pic.twitter.com/poIkc5dn5t</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/963752586967945217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Real Madrid 1 PSG 0 - 2015/16 Champions League group stage

PSG 0 Real Madrid 0 - 2015/16 Champions League group stage

PSG 1 Real Madrid 1 - 1993/94 UEFA Cup Winners&#39; Cup quarter-final second leg

Real Madrid 0 PSG 1 - 1993/94 UEFA Cup Winners&#39; Cup quarter-final first leg

PSG 4 Real Madrid 1 - 1992/93 UEFA Cup quarter-final second leg

Real Madrid 3 PSG 1 - 1992/93 UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg

As many as 1,800 police officers will be on duty to look out for trouble on what has been classified a &quot;high risk&quot; occasion.

Liverpool vs FC Porto

Also, Liverpool will face FC Porto in the&nbsp;first leg of an intriguing Champions League knockout on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;at the Estadio do Dragao, Portugal.

Porto had never won against Liverpool in the previous four Champions League clashes and they are looking forward to create history tonight.

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Manchester City have now won 34 games in all competitions this season. ???????????? 
 
2017/18 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> favourites? ???? <a href="https://t.co/bgSGQmyD76">pic.twitter.com/bgSGQmyD76</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/963535576426336259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Previous meetings:

Liverpool 4 Porto 1 - 2007/08 Champions League group stage

Porto 1 Liverpool 1 - 2007/08 Champions League group stage

Liverpool 2 Porto 0 - 2000/01 UEFA Cup quarter-final second leg

Porto 0 Liverpool 0 - 2000/01 UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg

Porto is currently standing at number two in the Group G behind Besiktas and Liverpool are winners of Group E ahead of Sevilla.

&nbsp;

Liverpool will face FC Porto and Real Madrid will face Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of Champions League

When the whole world is celebrating valentines day, football fanatics will definitely ditch their dates as it is Champions League night. Now, if the boy chooses to watch this clash over his girl then he might get dumped by his girlfriend. But this football match is worth that, believe me, there is no way to miss the Neymar-Ronaldo rivalry tonight as it is impossible not to see this tie as a confrontation between the global superstars on each side in Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar. The biggest clash of 2018 till now is set to start. Real Madrid vs Paris Saint Germain and Liverpool vs Porto. Real Madrid vs Paris Saint Germain Champions league is back and Zinedine Zidane is hoping the Champions League will again bring out the best in Real Madrid. The defending champions are set to face the formidable Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday's last 16, first leg. Although, Real Madrid are floundering in La Liga this season, sitting in fourth place, 17 points adrift of leaders Barcelona. The current performance has even called into question Zidane's future as coach. Zidane has been going through the toughest period of his short managerial career. On the other hand, PSG will look forward to winning the contest with a revenge hypothesis as they will never forget the 6-1 humiliation they suffered in Barcelona at the same stage of last year's Champions League. PSG fans are hoping there can be no repeat of such an embarrassing defeat, especially with Neymar -- who masterminded that Barcelona comeback -- now in their ranks. Kylian Mbappé, Edinson Cavani & Neymar have scored 16 of Paris' 25 goals in the #UCL this season... Best trio in the competition? ???????????? pic.twitter.com/poIkc5dn5t — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 14, 2018 × Real Madrid 1 PSG 0 - 2015/16 Champions League group stage PSG 0 Real Madrid 0 - 2015/16 Champions League group stage PSG 1 Real Madrid 1 - 1993/94 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup quarter-final second leg Real Madrid 0 PSG 1 - 1993/94 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup quarter-final first leg PSG 4 Real Madrid 1 - 1992/93 UEFA Cup quarter-final second leg Real Madrid 3 PSG 1 - 1992/93 UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg As many as 1,800 police officers will be on duty to look out for trouble on what has been classified a "high risk" occasion. Liverpool vs FC Porto Also, Liverpool will face FC Porto in the first leg of an intriguing Champions League knockout on Wednesday at the Estadio do Dragao, Portugal. Porto had never won against Liverpool in the previous four Champions League clashes and they are looking forward to create history tonight. Manchester City have now won 34 games in all competitions this season. ???????????? 2017/18 #UCL favourites? ???? pic.twitter.com/bgSGQmyD76 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 13, 2018 × Previous meetings: Liverpool 4 Porto 1 - 2007/08 Champions League group stage Porto 1 Liverpool 1 - 2007/08 Champions League group stage Liverpool 2 Porto 0 - 2000/01 UEFA Cup quarter-final second leg Porto 0 Liverpool 0 - 2000/01 UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg Porto is currently standing at number two in the Group G behind Besiktas and Liverpool are winners of Group E ahead of Sevilla.

Champions League: These football clashes might make you break up

Brazilian superstar Neymar looks set to return to Paris Saint-Germain against Dijon on Wednesday after coach Unai Emery included him in the Ligue 1 leaders&#39; squad on Tuesday.

Neymar missed Sunday&#39;s 1-0 win at Nantes due to a rib injury but Spaniard Emery believes he should be recovered in time.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-why-referee-tony-chapron-is-suspended-29673" target="_blank">How French referee Tony Chapron &#39;tackled&#39; Diego Carlos</a>

&quot;Neymar trained well (on Monday). He&#39;ll still feel pain for a few days but he took part in training and finished it well,&quot; said the former Sevilla coach.

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<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">&nbsp;</div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd-eVEJjtwI/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">⚽️????????&zwj;♂️????</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/neymarjr/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Nj ???????? ???? neymarjr</a> (@neymarjr) on <time datetime="2018-01-15T16:04:44+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 15, 2018 at 8:04am PST</time>
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&nbsp;

&quot;He&#39;ll need a week or two for the pain to pass. He&#39;s fine in non-contact (training) but if he takes a knock in the same area, the pain will persist.

&quot;We&#39;ll see but he should be ready (to face Dijon).&quot;

Brazilian-born Italy international midfielder Thiago Motta is not fit to return from a calf injury, though.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Coach Unai Emery included him in the Ligue 1 leaders' squad to play against Dijon on Wednesday

Brazilian superstar Neymar looks set to return to Paris Saint-Germain against Dijon on Wednesday after coach Unai Emery included him in the Ligue 1 leaders' squad on Tuesday. Neymar missed Sunday's 1-0 win at Nantes due to a rib injury but Spaniard Emery believes he should be recovered in time. Watch: How French referee Tony Chapron 'tackled' Diego Carlos "Neymar trained well (on Monday). He'll still feel pain for a few days but he took part in training and finished it well," said the former Sevilla coach. ⚽️????????‍♂️???? A post shared by Nj ???????? ???? neymarjr (@neymarjr) on Jan 15, 2018 at 8:04am PST × "He'll need a week or two for the pain to pass. He's fine in non-contact (training) but if he takes a knock in the same area, the pain will persist. "We'll see but he should be ready (to face Dijon)." Brazilian-born Italy international midfielder Thiago Motta is not fit to return from a calf injury, though.

Neymar set to return after injury

Lionel Messi netted twice in Barcelona&#39;s convincing 3-0 victory over Juventus that kicked off their Champions League campaign in style, while Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Chelsea also won big on Tuesday.

After a troubled summer, a home meeting with last season&#39;s runners-up may not have been what Barcelona wanted, but Messi was at his brilliant best to give the Catalans the three points.

New signing Ousmane Dembele was handed a first Barcelona start at the Camp Nou but it was Messi who got the opening goal on the stroke of half-time after a brilliant exchange of passes with Luis Suarez.

It was fine play from the Argentine that led to Ivan Rakitic doubling Barca&#39;s lead on 56 minutes and Messi saved the best for last with a sublime goal to complete the victory midway through the second half.

&quot;I have suffered many times playing against Messi and now I have the luck to have him on my side,&quot; said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.

The result gave Barcelona revenge for their defeat to Juventus in last season&#39;s quarter-finals and leaves them on top of Group D alongside Sporting Lisbon, who won 3-2 away to Olympiakos in Greece.

Sporting, who had been three goals up at half-time, host Barcelona next.

While Barcelona adapt to life without Neymar, the Brazilian is enjoying life with PSG and scored the opener in their superb 5-0 victory over Celtic in Glasgow.

Neymar silenced the Parkhead crowd in the 19th minute for his fifth goal in five appearances for PSG, and he then set up Kylian Mbappe to make it 2-0.

Edinson Cavani -- the third member of PSG&#39;s &#39;MCN&#39; front three -- won and converted a penalty to put the visitors out of sight before the interval.

A Mikael Lustig own goal on 83 minutes and another for Cavani put the seal on PSG&#39;s victory and left Celtic to contemplate their heaviest ever home defeat in Europe.

&quot;It was a great match and very important to win. It is always a pleasure to play alongside great players,&quot; Neymar told beIN Sports.

PSG&#39;s next opponents in Group B will be five-time European champions Bayern Munich, who began their campaign by brushing aside Anderlecht 3-0 at the Allianz Arena.

The game was conditioned by the early sending-off of Anderlecht&#39;s Sven Kums for giving away a penalty that Robert Lewandowski converted.

Alexandru Chipciu did hit the post for the 10 men when it was still 1-0 but Bayern added two more goals in the second half, with Joshua Kimmich setting up Thiago Alcantara to score before wrapping up the win himself.

Fellaini United&#39;s fixer 
Substitute Marouane Fellaini was an unlikely source of inspiration as Manchester United comfortably defeated Basel 3-0 in Group A on their return to the Champions League.

Fellaini came on for the injured Paul Pogba and gave United a 35th-minute lead at a drizzly Old Trafford. He later teed up Marcus Rashford for the hosts&#39; third goal after Romelu Lukaku had struck early in the second period.

It was United&#39;s first Champions League game since December 2015, with Jose Mourinho&#39;s side having engineered a return to the competition by winning the Europa League last season.

In the same group, CSKA Moscow came from behind to beat Portuguese champions Benfica 2-1 in Lisbon with Timur Zhamaletdinov getting their winner. CSKA entertain United later this month.

Mourinho&#39;s old club Chelsea were the biggest winners on the night, thrashing group stage newcomers Qarabag 6-0 at Stamford Bridge in Group C.

A superb Pedro Rodriguez strike set Chelsea on their way before recent signing Davide Zappacosta&#39;s intended cross flew in to make it 2-0 before the interval.

Cesar Azpilicueta and Tiemoue Bakayoko scored after the break and Michy Batshuayi added the fifth before forcing Maksim Medvedev into the own goal that completed the rout.

Chelsea next go to Atletico Madrid, who drew 0-0 at Roma on Tuesday.

Messi scored twice for Barcelona, Neymar scored the opener in PSG's superb 5-0 victory over Celtic in Glasgow

Lionel Messi netted twice in Barcelona's convincing 3-0 victory over Juventus that kicked off their Champions League campaign in style, while Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Chelsea also won big on Tuesday. After a troubled summer, a home meeting with last season's runners-up may not have been what Barcelona wanted, but Messi was at his brilliant best to give the Catalans the three points. New signing Ousmane Dembele was handed a first Barcelona start at the Camp Nou but it was Messi who got the opening goal on the stroke of half-time after a brilliant exchange of passes with Luis Suarez. It was fine play from the Argentine that led to Ivan Rakitic doubling Barca's lead on 56 minutes and Messi saved the best for last with a sublime goal to complete the victory midway through the second half. "I have suffered many times playing against Messi and now I have the luck to have him on my side," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. The result gave Barcelona revenge for their defeat to Juventus in last season's quarter-finals and leaves them on top of Group D alongside Sporting Lisbon, who won 3-2 away to Olympiakos in Greece. Sporting, who had been three goals up at half-time, host Barcelona next. While Barcelona adapt to life without Neymar, the Brazilian is enjoying life with PSG and scored the opener in their superb 5-0 victory over Celtic in Glasgow. Neymar silenced the Parkhead crowd in the 19th minute for his fifth goal in five appearances for PSG, and he then set up Kylian Mbappe to make it 2-0. Edinson Cavani -- the third member of PSG's 'MCN' front three -- won and converted a penalty to put the visitors out of sight before the interval. A Mikael Lustig own goal on 83 minutes and another for Cavani put the seal on PSG's victory and left Celtic to contemplate their heaviest ever home defeat in Europe. "It was a great match and very important to win. It is always a pleasure to play alongside great players," Neymar told beIN Sports. PSG's next opponents in Group B will be five-time European champions Bayern Munich, who began their campaign by brushing aside Anderlecht 3-0 at the Allianz Arena. The game was conditioned by the early sending-off of Anderlecht's Sven Kums for giving away a penalty that Robert Lewandowski converted. Alexandru Chipciu did hit the post for the 10 men when it was still 1-0 but Bayern added two more goals in the second half, with Joshua Kimmich setting up Thiago Alcantara to score before wrapping up the win himself. Fellaini United's fixer Substitute Marouane Fellaini was an unlikely source of inspiration as Manchester United comfortably defeated Basel 3-0 in Group A on their return to the Champions League. Fellaini came on for the injured Paul Pogba and gave United a 35th-minute lead at a drizzly Old Trafford. He later teed up Marcus Rashford for the hosts' third goal after Romelu Lukaku had struck early in the second period. It was United's first Champions League game since December 2015, with Jose Mourinho's side having engineered a return to the competition by winning the Europa League last season. In the same group, CSKA Moscow came from behind to beat Portuguese champions Benfica 2-1 in Lisbon with Timur Zhamaletdinov getting their winner. CSKA entertain United later this month. Mourinho's old club Chelsea were the biggest winners on the night, thrashing group stage newcomers Qarabag 6-0 at Stamford Bridge in Group C. A superb Pedro Rodriguez strike set Chelsea on their way before recent signing Davide Zappacosta's intended cross flew in to make it 2-0 before the interval. Cesar Azpilicueta and Tiemoue Bakayoko scored after the break and Michy Batshuayi added the fifth before forcing Maksim Medvedev into the own goal that completed the rout. Chelsea next go to Atletico Madrid, who drew 0-0 at Roma on Tuesday.

Champions League: Barcelona beat Juventus; PSG, ManU & Chelsea win big

Neymar starred from beginning to end on his home debut for Paris Saint-Germain, scoring twice in a 6-2 thumping of Toulouse in Ligue 1 on Sunday.

The Brazilian superstar had a hand in everything else his new side did at the Parc des Princes as they recovered from the shock of falling behind early on to a Max Gradel goal.

Neymar got the equaliser and the 222 million-euro ($261 million) man later completed the rout in stunning style after further goals from Adrien Rabiot, an Edinson Cavani penalty, Javier Pastore and Layvin Kurzawa.

Marco Verratti was sent off for PSG midway through the second half and Toulouse at one point came back to 3-2, but they were ultimately blown away by the world&#39;s most expensive player.

&quot;I feel very happy and relaxed, I feel at home. I am adapting as quickly as possible. I am getting better physically and I can still improve yet,&quot; the 25-year-old said ominously after the game.

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<h5>I feel very happy and relaxed, I feel at home. I am adapting as quickly as possible. I am getting better physically and I can still improve yet,&#39; the 25-year-old said after the game</h5>
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It was PSG&#39;s third win in as many league outings this season and they join reigning champions Monaco and Saint-Etienne in having the maximum nine points to their name.

Saint-Etienne visit the French capital next Friday and will be dreading the prospect after this latest exhibition from PSG&#39;s new superstar.

Neymar had a part in all of his side&#39;s goals in last week&#39;s 3-0 win at Guingamp, scoring one in his first game in French football since his stunning world-record transfer, and he was again at the centre of everything here.

Gradel, making his first appearance for Toulouse on loan from Bournemouth, volleyed the away side in front in the 18th minute but Neymar had already seen a shot strike the top of the bar before that.

The Brazilian then saw a header tipped onto the post by Alban Lafont before he equalised just after the half-hour, setting up Rabiot for a shot that was pushed out by the away goalkeeper before following in to convert the loose ball.

The same duo combined as PSG went in front, Rabiot playing a one-two with Neymar before beating Lafont with a low strike into the bottom corner from 25 yards.

&#39;Class&#39; 
The second half was quieter before coming to life after Verratti was harshly shown a second yellow for catching Christopher Jullien in the Toulouse area in the 69th minute.

Soon after, the referee gave a harsh decision the other way, awarding a penalty for a foul on Neymar when Toulouse striker Andy Delort appeared to play the ball.

Cavani scored from the spot, the goal his 11th in his last 11 Ligue 1 games, but Toulouse quickly pulled another one back when the giant Jullien headed in from a corner with 12 minutes left to make it 3-2.

Yet there was to be no grandstand finish from the visitors, as instead substitute Pastore -- the man who has lost his place to accommodate Neymar -- curled in a superb fourth.

Neymar&#39;s corner was headed in by Kurzawa. But Neymar had to have the last word and somehow engineered himself space in the area in stoppage time before finishing to make it 6-2 and bring the Parc des Princes crowd to its feet.

&quot;If I forget the fact I am the Toulouse coach, it is good for football to see that kind of class,&quot; said opposition boss Pascal Dupraz.

Elsewhere on Sunday, Marcelo Bielsa suffered a second straight loss as Lille coach in a disappointing 2-0 home defeat against Caen, while Marseille were frustrated by Angers in a 1-1 draw at the Velodrome.

Radamel Falcao struck his fifth goal in three games on Friday to give Monaco a 1-0 win at Metz, while Saint-Etienne beat newcomers Amiens 3-0 on Saturday. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Brazilian superstar had a hand in everything

Neymar starred from beginning to end on his home debut for Paris Saint-Germain, scoring twice in a 6-2 thumping of Toulouse in Ligue 1 on Sunday. The Brazilian superstar had a hand in everything else his new side did at the Parc des Princes as they recovered from the shock of falling behind early on to a Max Gradel goal. Neymar got the equaliser and the 222 million-euro ($261 million) man later completed the rout in stunning style after further goals from Adrien Rabiot, an Edinson Cavani penalty, Javier Pastore and Layvin Kurzawa. Marco Verratti was sent off for PSG midway through the second half and Toulouse at one point came back to 3-2, but they were ultimately blown away by the world's most expensive player. "I feel very happy and relaxed, I feel at home. I am adapting as quickly as possible. I am getting better physically and I can still improve yet," the 25-year-old said ominously after the game. I feel very happy and relaxed, I feel at home. I am adapting as quickly as possible. I am getting better physically and I can still improve yet,' the 25-year-old said after the game × It was PSG's third win in as many league outings this season and they join reigning champions Monaco and Saint-Etienne in having the maximum nine points to their name. Saint-Etienne visit the French capital next Friday and will be dreading the prospect after this latest exhibition from PSG's new superstar. Neymar had a part in all of his side's goals in last week's 3-0 win at Guingamp, scoring one in his first game in French football since his stunning world-record transfer, and he was again at the centre of everything here. Gradel, making his first appearance for Toulouse on loan from Bournemouth, volleyed the away side in front in the 18th minute but Neymar had already seen a shot strike the top of the bar before that. The Brazilian then saw a header tipped onto the post by Alban Lafont before he equalised just after the half-hour, setting up Rabiot for a shot that was pushed out by the away goalkeeper before following in to convert the loose ball. The same duo combined as PSG went in front, Rabiot playing a one-two with Neymar before beating Lafont with a low strike into the bottom corner from 25 yards. 'Class' The second half was quieter before coming to life after Verratti was harshly shown a second yellow for catching Christopher Jullien in the Toulouse area in the 69th minute. Soon after, the referee gave a harsh decision the other way, awarding a penalty for a foul on Neymar when Toulouse striker Andy Delort appeared to play the ball. Cavani scored from the spot, the goal his 11th in his last 11 Ligue 1 games, but Toulouse quickly pulled another one back when the giant Jullien headed in from a corner with 12 minutes left to make it 3-2. Yet there was to be no grandstand finish from the visitors, as instead substitute Pastore -- the man who has lost his place to accommodate Neymar -- curled in a superb fourth. Neymar's corner was headed in by Kurzawa. But Neymar had to have the last word and somehow engineered himself space in the area in stoppage time before finishing to make it 6-2 and bring the Parc des Princes crowd to its feet. "If I forget the fact I am the Toulouse coach, it is good for football to see that kind of class," said opposition boss Pascal Dupraz. Elsewhere on Sunday, Marcelo Bielsa suffered a second straight loss as Lille coach in a disappointing 2-0 home defeat against Caen, while Marseille were frustrated by Angers in a 1-1 draw at the Velodrome. Radamel Falcao struck his fifth goal in three games on Friday to give Monaco a 1-0 win at Metz, while Saint-Etienne beat newcomers Amiens 3-0 on Saturday.

Neymar dazzles on home debut, PSG thump Toulouse 6-2

Brazilian superstar Neymar has pledged to spark a trophy glut at Paris Saint Germain after agreeing to a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-neymar-signs-record-breaking-264-million-deal-with-psg-18572" target="_blank">five-year deal on a world record 222 million euro ($264 million) transfer from Barcelona.</a>

The 25-year-old will earn a mind-boggling 30 million euros ($35.5 million) a year in Paris but insists he will prove value for money for the ambitious but under-performing Qatari-owned French side.

&quot;I am extremely happy to join Paris Saint-Germain,&quot; said Neymar.

&quot;Since I arrived in Europe, the club has always been one of the most competitive and most ambitious. And the biggest challenge, what most motivated me to join my new teammates is to help the club to conquer the titles that their fans want.&nbsp;

&quot;Paris Saint-Germain&#39;s ambition attracted me to the club, along with the passion and the energy this brings. I played four seasons in Europe and I feel ready to take the challenge.&nbsp;

&quot;From today, I will do everything I can to help my new teammates, to open up new horizons for my club and to bring happiness to its millions of supporters around the world.&quot;

PSG said that Neymar will be unveiled at a press conference at the club&#39;s Parc des Princes at 1130GMT on Friday.

He will then be presented to fans at the same ground at 1345GMT on Saturday before the season-opening Ligue 1 fixture against promoted Amiens.

PSG wasted no time in pressing Neymar&#39;s commercial value by announcing that shirts bearing his name will be on sale from 0800GMT Friday at the club&#39;s megastore on the city&#39;s iconic Champs Elysees.

Football legend Pele congratulated Neymar on his move, telling his successor in the famed Brazilian number 10 shirt: &quot;Good luck for your new challenge&quot;.

&quot;Paris is a beautiful city and one of my favourites in the world,&quot; three-time World Cup winner Pele wrote on Twitter.

The transfer is more than double the previous world record set by Manchester United&#39;s capture of Paul Pogba from Juventus last year for 105 million euros, leaving many commentators aghast at the rampant inflation in football transfer fees.

Leading coaches such as Arsenal&#39;s Arsene Wenger and Manchester United&#39;s Jose Mourinho lamented that the move could cause even greater inflation in transfer fees and player wages.

&quot;It also looks like the inflation is accelerating,&quot; said Wenger, whose 21 years at Arsenal have been characterised by prudent spending.

&quot;It&#39;s beyond calculation and beyond rationality.&quot;

&nbsp;&#39;A state signing&#39;

However, in the French capital there is huge excitement at PSG having landed a star name to finally make them feared among European football&#39;s elite with even French president Emmanuel Macron enthused.

&quot;It adds attractiveness. Yes, it&#39;s good news,&quot; said Macron.

&quot;Neymar to PSG -- the transfer of the century&quot;, splashed Le Parisien&#39;s front page on Thursday with the first five pages devoted to his impending arrival.

The mood is understandably more sombre in Barcelona where attention has turned to who the Catalans can sign to replace Neymar in the month before the transfer window closes.

Neymar&#39;s Brazilian international teammate Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund&#39;s Ousmane Dembele have both been linked.

There is also scepticism at the role played by PSG&#39;s owners Oryx Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) at a time of political crisis for the energy-rich state which has been boycotted by its Gulf neighbours in recent months and will play host to the World Cup in 2022.

Spanish newspaper El Mundo described the move as a &quot;state signing.&quot;

But whilst La Liga protests at losing one of its biggest stars, Barca&#39;s players have continued to wish their now former teammate well.

&quot;My friend I wish you the best in everything that comes!!!&quot; Luis Suarez posted on Instagram alongside a picture of the two hugging.

&quot;Also thank you for your support, for everything that I learned with you and for the unique moments that we spent together!!!! Keep like this and never change love you little bro.&quot;

The transfer is more than double the previous world record set by Manchester United's capture of Paul Pogba from Juventus last year for 105 million euros

Brazilian superstar Neymar has pledged to spark a trophy glut at Paris Saint Germain after agreeing to a five-year deal on a world record 222 million euro ($264 million) transfer from Barcelona. The 25-year-old will earn a mind-boggling 30 million euros ($35.5 million) a year in Paris but insists he will prove value for money for the ambitious but under-performing Qatari-owned French side. "I am extremely happy to join Paris Saint-Germain," said Neymar. "Since I arrived in Europe, the club has always been one of the most competitive and most ambitious. And the biggest challenge, what most motivated me to join my new teammates is to help the club to conquer the titles that their fans want. "Paris Saint-Germain's ambition attracted me to the club, along with the passion and the energy this brings. I played four seasons in Europe and I feel ready to take the challenge. "From today, I will do everything I can to help my new teammates, to open up new horizons for my club and to bring happiness to its millions of supporters around the world." PSG said that Neymar will be unveiled at a press conference at the club's Parc des Princes at 1130GMT on Friday. He will then be presented to fans at the same ground at 1345GMT on Saturday before the season-opening Ligue 1 fixture against promoted Amiens. PSG wasted no time in pressing Neymar's commercial value by announcing that shirts bearing his name will be on sale from 0800GMT Friday at the club's megastore on the city's iconic Champs Elysees. Football legend Pele congratulated Neymar on his move, telling his successor in the famed Brazilian number 10 shirt: "Good luck for your new challenge". "Paris is a beautiful city and one of my favourites in the world," three-time World Cup winner Pele wrote on Twitter. The transfer is more than double the previous world record set by Manchester United's capture of Paul Pogba from Juventus last year for 105 million euros, leaving many commentators aghast at the rampant inflation in football transfer fees. Leading coaches such as Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Manchester United's Jose Mourinho lamented that the move could cause even greater inflation in transfer fees and player wages. "It also looks like the inflation is accelerating," said Wenger, whose 21 years at Arsenal have been characterised by prudent spending. "It's beyond calculation and beyond rationality." 'A state signing' However, in the French capital there is huge excitement at PSG having landed a star name to finally make them feared among European football's elite with even French president Emmanuel Macron enthused. "It adds attractiveness. Yes, it's good news," said Macron. "Neymar to PSG -- the transfer of the century", splashed Le Parisien's front page on Thursday with the first five pages devoted to his impending arrival. The mood is understandably more sombre in Barcelona where attention has turned to who the Catalans can sign to replace Neymar in the month before the transfer window closes. Neymar's Brazilian international teammate Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund's Ousmane Dembele have both been linked. There is also scepticism at the role played by PSG's owners Oryx Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) at a time of political crisis for the energy-rich state which has been boycotted by its Gulf neighbours in recent months and will play host to the World Cup in 2022. Spanish newspaper El Mundo described the move as a "state signing." But whilst La Liga protests at losing one of its biggest stars, Barca's players have continued to wish their now former teammate well. "My friend I wish you the best in everything that comes!!!" Luis Suarez posted on Instagram alongside a picture of the two hugging. "Also thank you for your support, for everything that I learned with you and for the unique moments that we spent together!!!! Keep like this and never change love you little bro."

Neymar pledges trophy haul after PSG transfer

Neymar&#39;s world record move to Paris Saint-Germain was completed Thursday when the French club confirmed the Brazilian superstar had signed a five year-deal, earning him an estimated 30 million euros ($35.5 million) a year.

The deal was signed just hours after the 25-year-old paid off his 222 million euro ($264 million) buyout clause to Barcelona.

&quot;I am extremely happy to join Paris Saint-Germain,&quot; said Neymar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/neymar-transfer-crisis-hit-qatars-soft-power-play-18575">Also </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/neymar-transfer-crisis-hit-qatars-soft-power-play-18575">read:</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/neymar-transfer-crisis-hit-qatars-soft-power-play-18575">&nbsp;Neymar transfer crisis-hit Qatar&#39;s &#39;soft power play&#39;</a>

&quot;Since I arrived in Europe, the club has always been one of the most competitive and most ambitious. And the biggest challenge, what most motivated me to join my new teammates is to help the club to conquer the titles that their fans want.&nbsp;

&quot;Paris Saint-Germain&#39;s ambition attracted me to the club, along with the passion and the energy this brings. I played four seasons in Europe and I feel ready to take the challenge.&nbsp;

&quot;From today, I will do everything I can to help my new teammates, to open up new horizons for my club and to bring happiness to its millions of supporters around the world.&quot;

PSG said that Neymar will be unveiled at a press conference at the club&#39;s Parc des Princes at 1130GMT on Friday.

He will then be presented to fans at the same ground at 1345GMT on Saturday before the season-opening Ligue 1 fixture against promoted Amiens.

PSG wasted no time in pressing Neymar&#39;s commercial value by announcing that shirts bearing his name will be on sale from 0800GMT Friday at the club&#39;s megastore on the city&#39;s iconic Champs Elysees.

The transfer is more than double the previous world record set by Manchester United&#39;s capture of Paul Pogba from Juventus last year for 105 million euros, leaving many commentators aghast at the rampant inflation in football transfer fees.

Leading coaches such as Arsenal&#39;s Arsene Wenger and Manchester United&#39;s Jose Mourinho lamented that the move could cause even greater inflation in transfer fees and player wages.

&quot;It also looks like the inflation is accelerating,&quot; said Wenger, whose 21 years at Arsenal have been characterised by prudent spending.

&quot;It&#39;s beyond calculation and beyond rationality.&quot;

&nbsp;Pele says &#39;good luck&#39;

However, in the French capital there is huge excitement at PSG&#39;s Qatari-backed project having landed a star name to finally make them feared among European football&#39;s elite with even French president Emmanuel Macron enthused.

&quot;It adds attractiveness. Yes, it&#39;s good news,&quot; said Macron.

&quot;Neymar to PSG -- the transfer of the century&quot;, splashed Le Parisien&#39;s front page on Thursday with the first five pages devoted to his impending arrival.

The mood is understandably more sombre in Barcelona where attention has turned to who the Catalans can sign to replace Neymar in the month before the transfer window closes.

Neymar&#39;s Brazilian international teammate Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund&#39;s Ousmane Dembele have both been linked.

There is also scepticism at the role played by PSG&#39;s owners Oryx Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) at a time of political crisis for the energy-rich state which has been boycotted by its Gulf neighbours in recent months and will play host to the World Cup in 2022.

Spanish newspaper El Mundo described the move as a &quot;state signing.&quot;

But whilst La Liga protests at losing one of its biggest stars, Barca&#39;s players have continued to wish their now former teammate well.

&quot;My friend I wish you the best in everything that comes!!!&quot; Luis Suarez posted on Instagram alongside a picture of the two hugging.

&quot;Also thank you for your support, for everything that I learned with you and for the unique moments that we spent together!!!! Keep like this and never change love you little bro.&quot;

Football legend Pele congratulated Neymar on his world record move, telling his successor in the famed Brazilian number 10 shirt: &quot;Good luck for your new challenge&quot;.

&quot;Paris is a beautiful city and one of my favourites in the world,&quot; three-time World Cup winner Pele wrote on Twitter.

Earlier Thursday, Spain&#39;s football league threatened to stall the saga by initially refusing to accept the cheque presented by Neymar&#39;s representatives at its Madrid headquarters.

La Liga president Javier Tebas had accused the French club of breaching UEFA&#39;s financial fair play rules.

Clubs can be sanctioned by European football&#39;s governing body for making a loss of more than 30 million euros over a three-year period.

However, UEFA insisted the move will not automatically trigger a failure to comply with FFP regulations.

He will earn $35.5 million a year in Paris

Neymar's world record move to Paris Saint-Germain was completed Thursday when the French club confirmed the Brazilian superstar had signed a five year-deal, earning him an estimated 30 million euros ($35.5 million) a year. The deal was signed just hours after the 25-year-old paid off his 222 million euro ($264 million) buyout clause to Barcelona. "I am extremely happy to join Paris Saint-Germain," said Neymar. Also read: Neymar transfer crisis-hit Qatar's 'soft power play' "Since I arrived in Europe, the club has always been one of the most competitive and most ambitious. And the biggest challenge, what most motivated me to join my new teammates is to help the club to conquer the titles that their fans want. "Paris Saint-Germain's ambition attracted me to the club, along with the passion and the energy this brings. I played four seasons in Europe and I feel ready to take the challenge. "From today, I will do everything I can to help my new teammates, to open up new horizons for my club and to bring happiness to its millions of supporters around the world." PSG said that Neymar will be unveiled at a press conference at the club's Parc des Princes at 1130GMT on Friday. He will then be presented to fans at the same ground at 1345GMT on Saturday before the season-opening Ligue 1 fixture against promoted Amiens. PSG wasted no time in pressing Neymar's commercial value by announcing that shirts bearing his name will be on sale from 0800GMT Friday at the club's megastore on the city's iconic Champs Elysees. The transfer is more than double the previous world record set by Manchester United's capture of Paul Pogba from Juventus last year for 105 million euros, leaving many commentators aghast at the rampant inflation in football transfer fees. Leading coaches such as Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Manchester United's Jose Mourinho lamented that the move could cause even greater inflation in transfer fees and player wages. "It also looks like the inflation is accelerating," said Wenger, whose 21 years at Arsenal have been characterised by prudent spending. "It's beyond calculation and beyond rationality." Pele says 'good luck' However, in the French capital there is huge excitement at PSG's Qatari-backed project having landed a star name to finally make them feared among European football's elite with even French president Emmanuel Macron enthused. "It adds attractiveness. Yes, it's good news," said Macron. "Neymar to PSG -- the transfer of the century", splashed Le Parisien's front page on Thursday with the first five pages devoted to his impending arrival. The mood is understandably more sombre in Barcelona where attention has turned to who the Catalans can sign to replace Neymar in the month before the transfer window closes. Neymar's Brazilian international teammate Philippe Coutinho of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund's Ousmane Dembele have both been linked. There is also scepticism at the role played by PSG's owners Oryx Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) at a time of political crisis for the energy-rich state which has been boycotted by its Gulf neighbours in recent months and will play host to the World Cup in 2022. Spanish newspaper El Mundo described the move as a "state signing." But whilst La Liga protests at losing one of its biggest stars, Barca's players have continued to wish their now former teammate well. "My friend I wish you the best in everything that comes!!!" Luis Suarez posted on Instagram alongside a picture of the two hugging. "Also thank you for your support, for everything that I learned with you and for the unique moments that we spent together!!!! Keep like this and never change love you little bro." Football legend Pele congratulated Neymar on his world record move, telling his successor in the famed Brazilian number 10 shirt: "Good luck for your new challenge". "Paris is a beautiful city and one of my favourites in the world," three-time World Cup winner Pele wrote on Twitter. Earlier Thursday, Spain's football league threatened to stall the saga by initially refusing to accept the cheque presented by Neymar's representatives at its Madrid headquarters. La Liga president Javier Tebas had accused the French club of breaching UEFA's financial fair play rules. Clubs can be sanctioned by European football's governing body for making a loss of more than 30 million euros over a three-year period. However, UEFA insisted the move will not automatically trigger a failure to comply with FFP regulations.

Neymar completes record-breaking $264 million move to PSG