King of Clay and tennis great Rafael Nadal will join the board of directors of Real Madrid Football Club in a shock move. Nadal, who won 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals and helped Spain claim five Davis Cup crowns before retiring in 2024, is set to pursue a leadership role in a sport beyond tennis. Real Madrid board members will be asked to approve Nadal’s appointment at a meeting later this month. &nbsp;In a public statement, Real Madrid labelled Nadal as "one of the greatest legends in the history of sport and one of the most admired and recognised Spanish athletes in the world".&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-james-backs-manchester-city-to-beat-arsenal-premier-league-title-race-1793806494690">David James backs Manchester City to outclass 'favourites' Arsenal in Premier League title race</a> &nbsp;"It is a great source of pride that a figure of his sporting and human stature, a benchmark of Spanish and world sport, will become part of our board of directors and contribute, from this position of responsibility, to the present and future of our club," Real added. &nbsp;Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Nadal—a lifelong Real Madrid fan who holds member number 67,778—shared a photo of himself in a club kit in response to the news. &nbsp;"I want to thank president Florentino Perez and the board for proposing that I join the board of directors of Real Madrid," Nadal said in his post on X. “I have accepted this proposal with great excitement, a desire to learn, and a willingness to contribute everything I can."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Quiero agradecer al presidente Florentino Pérez y a la Junta que me hayan propuesto formar parte de la Junta Directiva del @realmadrid. 

He aceptado esta propuesta con mucha ilusión, ganas de aprender y aportar todo lo que pueda.

🤍🤍🤍 https://t.co/cFBQnUVW6j&mdash; Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://x.com/RafaelNadal/status/2117950318784995834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

However, it remains unclear what responsibilities Nadal would hold on the club's board. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Perez was re-elected to serve a new four-year term as Real president in June, having held the office since 2009. Soon after, he reappointed 'The Special One’ Jose Mourinho to a second spell as head coach, hoping to improve the club's fortunes after they went a second season without a trophy in La Liga, the Champions League or the Copa del Rey. &nbsp;Real Madrid are currently third in the league after 11 games - three points behind defending champions Barcelona.

Tennis icon Rafael Nadal joins Real Madrid's Board of Directors. Read how the 22-time Grand Slam legend accepted Florentino Perez's proposal. 

King of Clay and tennis great Rafael Nadal will join the board of directors of Real Madrid Football Club in a shock move. Nadal, who won 22 Grand Slam titles, two Olympic gold medals and helped Spain claim five Davis Cup crowns before retiring in 2024, is set to pursue a leadership role in a sport beyond tennis. Real Madrid board members will be asked to approve Nadal’s appointment at a meeting later this month. In a public statement, Real Madrid labelled Nadal as "one of the greatest legends in the history of sport and one of the most admired and recognised Spanish athletes in the world". Also read| David James backs Manchester City to outclass 'favourites' Arsenal in Premier League title race "It is a great source of pride that a figure of his sporting and human stature, a benchmark of Spanish and world sport, will become part of our board of directors and contribute, from this position of responsibility, to the present and future of our club," Real added. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), Nadal—a lifelong Real Madrid fan who holds member number 67,778—shared a photo of himself in a club kit in response to the news. "I want to thank president Florentino Perez and the board for proposing that I join the board of directors of Real Madrid," Nadal said in his post on X. “I have accepted this proposal with great excitement, a desire to learn, and a willingness to contribute everything I can."

Tennis icon Rafael Nadal joins Real Madrid's Board of Directors. Read how the 22-time Grand Slam legend accepted Florentino Perez's proposal.&nbsp;

Tennis icon Rafael Nadal to join Real Madrid board of directors in shock move

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho said on Saturday (Oct 17) if he were winger Vinicius Junior he would have left the club this summer. The Brazilian was sent off during Madrid's win over Villarreal last weekend for hair pulling and was banned for four matches, meaning he will miss the Clasico clash against Barcelona on October 25. Vinicius, 26, has also been targeted regularly by opposition fans and been racially abused on many occasions since joining Madrid in 2018.&nbsp;"He's a spectacular kid who it's easy to have a good relationship with," Mourinho told reporters. "He's a fantastic boy, tremendous credit to him for the fact that he keeps living and surviving and still having a smile...&nbsp;"If it were me in his place, probably I wouldn't be here. In this last summer I would have forced an exit to a league, a country, to somewhere there are rival clubs and stadiums that respect him."&nbsp;In the summer Vinicius signed a new contract with Real Madrid until 2032.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-psg-crush-man-city-4-2-real-madrid-stun-roma-with-late-fightback-1792134702752">UEFA Champions League: PSG crush Man City 4-2, Real Madrid stun Roma with late fightback</a>&nbsp;Question marks remain over whether Madrid can line up with attacking superstars Vinicius, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham together, without losing balance.&nbsp;"Because he loves Real Madrid, for loving the club and the city, for believing that things can always improve, he renewed and he keeps on smiling," continued Mourinho. "No one or nobody can... well, influence him negatively yes, because he's human... but take away his joy of living and working and being with his team-mates, no, no one can do that."&nbsp;Mourinho took Vinicius off during the 4-3 Champions League win at Roma on Wednesday, with the winger still struggling to return to the form that helped him win the competition twice under Carlo Ancelotti.&nbsp;Mourinho said he was happy that Vinicius's ban was four matches, saying he thought some hidden figures at the Spanish football federation's disciplinary committee "would give him one or two more".<h3>‘There are limits’</h3>Madrid face Sevilla on Sunday aiming not to fall further behind league leaders Barcelona, who visit Real Betis later on Saturday.&nbsp;Hansi Flick's Barcelona have won every single match this season and are six points ahead of fourth-placed Real Madrid.&nbsp;Los Blancos and Mourinho have blamed referees for some of their results, including the 2-1 derby defeat by Atletico Madrid in September. On Friday (Oct 16), Real Madrid called for La Liga president Javier Tebas to resign after he compared the club's efforts to discredit referees to the techniques of Nazi propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels.&nbsp;Tebas later attempted to clarify that he was drawing comparisons with "those propaganda techniques" and not with the ideology of the Nazis.&nbsp;"I don't want to talk about this, there are limits and there are limits. You can only excuse it if it's a clinical case -- otherwise there's no excuse," said Mourinho. "I don't want to go down that road. Madrid and its fans understands what it is up against.&nbsp;"For the prestige that the league has abroad, for being the current world champions, it's better if we try to keep this here and not let it get out (to the world)."

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho backed Vinicius Jr amid his four-match La Liga ban, stating he would have left the club this summer if he were in the Brazilian’s position.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho said on Saturday (Oct 17) if he were winger Vinicius Junior he would have left the club this summer. The Brazilian was sent off during Madrid's win over Villarreal last weekend for hair pulling and was banned for four matches, meaning he will miss the Clasico clash against Barcelona on October 25. Vinicius, 26, has also been targeted regularly by opposition fans and been racially abused on many occasions since joining Madrid in 2018. "He's a spectacular kid who it's easy to have a good relationship with," Mourinho told reporters. "He's a fantastic boy, tremendous credit to him for the fact that he keeps living and surviving and still having a smile... "If it were me in his place, probably I wouldn't be here. In this last summer I would have forced an exit to a league, a country, to somewhere there are rival clubs and stadiums that respect him." In the summer Vinicius signed a new contract with Real Madrid until 2032. Also read| UEFA Champions League: PSG crush Man City 4-2, Real Madrid stun Roma with late fightback Question marks remain over whether Madrid can line up with attacking superstars Vinicius, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham together, without losing balance. "Because he loves Real Madrid, for loving the club and the city, for believing that things can always improve, he renewed and he keeps on smiling," continued Mourinho. "No one or nobody can... well, influence him negatively yes, because he's human... but take away his joy of living and working and being with his team-mates, no, no one can do that." Mourinho took Vinicius off during the 4-3 Champions League win at Roma on Wednesday, with the winger still struggling to return to the form that helped him win the competition twice under Carlo Ancelotti. Mourinho said he was happy that Vinicius's ban was four matches, saying he thought some hidden figures at the Spanish football federation's disciplinary committee "would give him one or two more". ‘There are limits’ Madrid face Sevilla on Sunday aiming not to fall further behind league leaders Barcelona, who visit Real Betis later on Saturday. Hansi Flick's Barcelona have won every single match this season and are six points ahead of fourth-placed Real Madrid. Los Blancos and Mourinho have blamed referees for some of their results, including the 2-1 derby defeat by Atletico Madrid in September. On Friday (Oct 16), Real Madrid called for La Liga president Javier Tebas to resign after he compared the club's efforts to discredit referees to the techniques of Nazi propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels. Tebas later attempted to clarify that he was drawing comparisons with "those propaganda techniques" and not with the ideology of the Nazis. "I don't want to talk about this, there are limits and there are limits. You can only excuse it if it's a clinical case -- otherwise there's no excuse," said Mourinho. "I don't want to go down that road. Madrid and its fans understands what it is up against. "For the prestige that the league has abroad, for being the current world champions, it's better if we try to keep this here and not let it get out (to the world)."

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho backed Vinicius Jr amid his four-match La Liga ban, stating he would have left the club this summer if he were in the Brazilian’s position.

Jose Mourinho on ‘Special Kid’ Vinicius: ‘I’d have left Madrid if I were in his place’

La Liga president Javier Tebas hits out on Tuesday (Sep 22) at what he deemed accusations of a refereeing "conspiracy" by Real Madrid following their derby loss to Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho brought two printed screen-shots of what he thought were red-card tackles committed by Atletico players to his post-match press conference following Sunday's 2-1 defeat.&nbsp;Tebas responded to a pro-Real article on social media with a lengthy riposte to allegations of a "conspiracy" against the 15-time European champions.&nbsp;"Here they go again, the mouthpieces and the regime's television, building the same old narrative -- the permanent conspiracy," said Tebas, who has often been at odds with Real Madrid and the club's outspoken president Florentino Perez. "This article goes further -- it claims that referees harm 'The business that feeds them'.&nbsp;"What exactly is it asking for? Refereeing based on revenue, viewership, or the badge? What a way to understand equality in the competition.&nbsp;"Real Madrid are crucial to La Liga. But claiming that 'La Liga is worth nothing' without them reveals the disdain for the other clubs, their fans, and their history. The competition belongs to no one."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-palmer-rice-among-five-ruled-out-of-england-s-upcoming-matches-1790003830461">Nations League: Palmer, Rice among five ruled out of England’s upcoming matches</a>&nbsp;Madrid have made a stuttering start to the season and already sit six points behind reigning champions and early leaders Barcelona in the La Liga table.&nbsp;"Claiming that referees are directed against Real Madrid is living in another galaxy," added Tebas. "That narrative serves as an excuse to cover up other shortcomings that are plain to see in these first matches of the season.&nbsp;"It's more comfortable to point to a conspiracy than to explain what's happening on the pitch."&nbsp;Mourinho returned for a second spell in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu in the close-season, tasked with ending a two-year spell without a major trophy.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has hit back at Real Madrid's refereeing "conspiracy" allegations following their derby defeat to Atletico Madrid. Read his full response.

La Liga president Javier Tebas hits out on Tuesday (Sep 22) at what he deemed accusations of a refereeing "conspiracy" by Real Madrid following their derby loss to Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho brought two printed screen-shots of what he thought were red-card tackles committed by Atletico players to his post-match press conference following Sunday's 2-1 defeat. Tebas responded to a pro-Real article on social media with a lengthy riposte to allegations of a "conspiracy" against the 15-time European champions. "Here they go again, the mouthpieces and the regime's television, building the same old narrative -- the permanent conspiracy," said Tebas, who has often been at odds with Real Madrid and the club's outspoken president Florentino Perez. "This article goes further -- it claims that referees harm 'The business that feeds them'. "What exactly is it asking for? Refereeing based on revenue, viewership, or the badge? What a way to understand equality in the competition. "Real Madrid are crucial to La Liga. But claiming that 'La Liga is worth nothing' without them reveals the disdain for the other clubs, their fans, and their history. The competition belongs to no one." Also read| Nations League: Palmer, Rice among five ruled out of England’s upcoming matches Madrid have made a stuttering start to the season and already sit six points behind reigning champions and early leaders Barcelona in the La Liga table. "Claiming that referees are directed against Real Madrid is living in another galaxy," added Tebas. "That narrative serves as an excuse to cover up other shortcomings that are plain to see in these first matches of the season. "It's more comfortable to point to a conspiracy than to explain what's happening on the pitch." Mourinho returned for a second spell in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu in the close-season, tasked with ending a two-year spell without a major trophy.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has hit back at Real Madrid's refereeing "conspiracy" allegations following their derby defeat to Atletico Madrid. Read his full response.

La Liga president Tebas rejects Real Madrid's refereeing conspiracy allegations

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lamine-yamal-ballon-dor-comments-mbappe-dembele-barcelona-1788879907390">Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims</a>Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition.Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul.The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score.Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory."It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems."Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross.Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League."Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime.It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain.<h2>Welcome win for Villa</h2>Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away.John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season.Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break.The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball.Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory."We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery.Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal.Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side.However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in.<h2>UEFA Champions League</h2>Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France.Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille.Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence.Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off.In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights. Also Read - Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010. Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition. Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul. The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score. Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory. "It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems." Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross. Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League. "Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime. It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain. Welcome win for Villa Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away. John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season. Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break. The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball. Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory. "We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery. Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal. Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side. However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in. UEFA Champions League Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France. Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille. Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence. Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off. In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences.<h2>How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled</h2>Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, <a href="https://x.com/le_Parisien/status/2095120200974614532">reported French newspaper Le Parisien</a> on its X handle.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-retirement-argentina-football-matches-to-halt-in-tribute-to-legend-1788417815400">Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend</a>"Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French).Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym."Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added.According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay.<h2>Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan?</h2>The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences. How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, reported French newspaper Le Parisien on its X handle. Also Read - Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend "Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French). Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym. "Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added. According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay. Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan? The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities foil plan of 18-year-old jailed criminal to kidnap footballer Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid have confirmed that star forward Vinicius Jr. has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2032, ending speculation over his future. The announcement also puts an end to rumours linking the Brazilian with a move to Premier League champions Arsenal. In a statement, the club said, "Real Madrid CF and Vinicius Jr. have agreed to extend the contract of our player, who is now tied to the club until June 30, 2032."&nbsp;Vinicius joined Real Madrid in Jul 2018 as an 18-year-old and has since become one of the club's key players. Across eight seasons, he has made 375 appearances, scored 128 goals and helped the club win 14 trophies, including two UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, three FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, one Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups.&nbsp;The Brazilian also scored in both Champions League finals that Real Madrid won in 2022 and 2024, playing a major role in the club's recent success.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pressure-continues-to-mount-on-fifa-chief-infantino-as-uefa-maintains-boycott-threat-conmebol-criticises-1786077683861">Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief as UEFA maintains boycott threat</a>&nbsp;His performances have earned him several individual honours, including the Best FIFA Men's Player Award 2024, the Golden Ball of the Intercontinental Cup 2024, the Champions League Player of the Season 2023-24, the Golden Ball of the Club World Cup 2022 and the Champions League Best Young Player award for 2021-22.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-can-india-reach-wtc-final-with-a-series-win-in-sri-lanka-1786096551558">Explained | Can India reach WTC final with a series win in Sri Lanka?</a>&nbsp;Vinicius has also been named in the FIFA World XI (2024), the FIFA FIFPro World11 (2023 and 2024) and the Champions League Team of the Season in three consecutive campaigns from 2021-22 to 2023-24.&nbsp;The club concluded its statement by describing the 26-year-old as "one of the most important players in one of the most successful periods in our history".&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Real Madrid announced on Thursday that Vinicius Jr. has signed a new contract, extending his stay at the club until 2032.

Real Madrid have confirmed that star forward Vinicius Jr. has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2032, ending speculation over his future. The announcement also puts an end to rumours linking the Brazilian with a move to Premier League champions Arsenal. In a statement, the club said, "Real Madrid CF and Vinicius Jr. have agreed to extend the contract of our player, who is now tied to the club until June 30, 2032." Vinicius joined Real Madrid in Jul 2018 as an 18-year-old and has since become one of the club's key players. Across eight seasons, he has made 375 appearances, scored 128 goals and helped the club win 14 trophies, including two UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, three FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, one Copa del Rey and three Spanish Super Cups. The Brazilian also scored in both Champions League finals that Real Madrid won in 2022 and 2024, playing a major role in the club's recent success. Also Read - Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief as UEFA maintains boycott threat His performances have earned him several individual honours, including the Best FIFA Men's Player Award 2024, the Golden Ball of the Intercontinental Cup 2024, the Champions League Player of the Season 2023-24, the Golden Ball of the Club World Cup 2022 and the Champions League Best Young Player award for 2021-22. Also Read - Explained | Can India reach WTC final with a series win in Sri Lanka? Vinicius has also been named in the FIFA World XI (2024), the FIFA FIFPro World11 (2023 and 2024) and the Champions League Team of the Season in three consecutive campaigns from 2021-22 to 2023-24. The club concluded its statement by describing the 26-year-old as "one of the most important players in one of the most successful periods in our history". With inputs from agencies

Real Madrid announced on Thursday that Vinicius Jr. has signed a new contract, extending his stay at the club until 2032.

Real Madrid secure Vinicius Jr with contract extension until 2032

English Premier League champions Arsenal are closely monitoring the contract situation of Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior and could make a move if the Brazilian fails to agree a new deal with the Spanish giants. The 26-year-old has emerged as one of several attacking targets being considered by the Premier League champions as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. However, discussions remain at a preliminary stage, and there is no certainty that Arsenal will formalise their interest.&nbsp;No direct talks have taken place between Arsenal and Real Madrid, but the prospect of signing Vinicius has reportedly received backing across the club's hierarchy. Vinicius has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu after spending eight seasons with Los Blancos. Negotiations over an extension have yet to produce a breakthrough, leaving uncertainty over his long-term future.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-zim-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-zimbabwe-by-90-runs-take-2-0-lead-in-series-1784989975992">IND vs ZIM, 2nd T20I: India thrash Zimbabwe by 90 runs; take 2-0 lead in series</a>&nbsp;Real Madrid are unlikely to risk losing one of their biggest stars on a free transfer, particularly with the forward set to earn a substantial loyalty bonus if he remains at the club next season. The Brazilian enjoyed another impressive campaign at the FIFA World Cup, featuring in all five of Brazil's matches and scoring four goals before Carlo Ancelotti's side were knocked out by Norway in the Round of 16.&nbsp;At club level, Vinicius scored 22 goals across all competitions during the 2025-26 season. Despite his contributions, Real Madrid ended the campaign without silverware for a second straight year, finishing second in La Liga, eight points behind Barcelona. Since arriving from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has established himself as one of Madrid's key players, making 375 appearances while contributing 128 goals and 100 assists.

Arsenal are considering a move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr as contract renewal talks remain unresolved. Here's the latest on the Brazilian winger's transfer future

English Premier League champions Arsenal are closely monitoring the contract situation of Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior and could make a move if the Brazilian fails to agree a new deal with the Spanish giants. The 26-year-old has emerged as one of several attacking targets being considered by the Premier League champions as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. However, discussions remain at a preliminary stage, and there is no certainty that Arsenal will formalise their interest. No direct talks have taken place between Arsenal and Real Madrid, but the prospect of signing Vinicius has reportedly received backing across the club's hierarchy. Vinicius has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu after spending eight seasons with Los Blancos. Negotiations over an extension have yet to produce a breakthrough, leaving uncertainty over his long-term future. Also Read: IND vs ZIM, 2nd T20I: India thrash Zimbabwe by 90 runs; take 2-0 lead in series Real Madrid are unlikely to risk losing one of their biggest stars on a free transfer, particularly with the forward set to earn a substantial loyalty bonus if he remains at the club next season. The Brazilian enjoyed another impressive campaign at the FIFA World Cup, featuring in all five of Brazil's matches and scoring four goals before Carlo Ancelotti's side were knocked out by Norway in the Round of 16. At club level, Vinicius scored 22 goals across all competitions during the 2025-26 season. Despite his contributions, Real Madrid ended the campaign without silverware for a second straight year, finishing second in La Liga, eight points behind Barcelona. Since arriving from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has established himself as one of Madrid's key players, making 375 appearances while contributing 128 goals and 100 assists.

Arsenal are monitoring Vinicius Jr's contract situation at Real Madrid and could launch a move if the Brazilian fails to sign a new deal

Vinicius Junior to Arsenal? Gunners eye blockbuster transfer as Real Madrid contract talks stall

Real Madrid have officially signed French defender Ibrahima Konate on a four-year contract, the club announced on Thursday (Jun 18). According to the club’s statement, Konate will remain with Real Madrid until 30 Jun, 2030 and will join his national teammates Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni at the Spanish club. The 27-year-old spent five seasons with Liverpool between 2021 and 2026, where he won the Premier League and FA Cup and also helped the team reach the UEFA Champions League final.&nbsp;Before moving to Liverpool, Konate played for French side Sochaux during the 2016-17 season and later represented Germany’s RB Leipzig, where he finished as a runner-up in the German Cup on two occasions.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-a-performance-to-be-proud-of-pm-starmer-praises-england-after-croatia-win-1781774976449">FIFA 2026 | 'A performance to be proud of': PM Starmer praises England after Croatia win</a>&nbsp;Since making his debut for France in 2022, Konate has earned more than 60 international caps. He was part of the French team that finished second at the 2022 FIFA World Cup after losing to Argentina in the final. He also helped France secure third place in the 2024--25 UEFA Nations League.&nbsp;Konate is currently representing France at the FIFA World Cup 2026, being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada. France began their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Senegal.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Real Madrid have strengthened their squad with the signing of French defender Ibrahima Konate on a four-year deal. The former Liverpool centre-back is the club’s third major signing of the summer transfer window.

Real Madrid have officially signed French defender Ibrahima Konate on a four-year contract, the club announced on Thursday (Jun 18). According to the club’s statement, Konate will remain with Real Madrid until 30 Jun, 2030 and will join his national teammates Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni at the Spanish club. The 27-year-old spent five seasons with Liverpool between 2021 and 2026, where he won the Premier League and FA Cup and also helped the team reach the UEFA Champions League final. Before moving to Liverpool, Konate played for French side Sochaux during the 2016-17 season and later represented Germany’s RB Leipzig, where he finished as a runner-up in the German Cup on two occasions. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | 'A performance to be proud of': PM Starmer praises England after Croatia win Since making his debut for France in 2022, Konate has earned more than 60 international caps. He was part of the French team that finished second at the 2022 FIFA World Cup after losing to Argentina in the final. He also helped France secure third place in the 2024--25 UEFA Nations League. Konate is currently representing France at the FIFA World Cup 2026, being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada. France began their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Senegal. With inputs from agencies

Real Madrid have strengthened their squad with the signing of French defender Ibrahima Konate on a four-year deal. The former Liverpool centre-back is the club’s third major signing of the summer transfer window.

French star Konate signs four-year deal with Real Madrid

Barcelona secured their 29th Spanish league title after beating Real Madrid 2-0 in the Clasico on Sunday. Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres struck in the first half to help Hansi Flick's side clinch La Liga in consecutive years, while consigning Madrid to a trophyless season. Barca moved an unassailable 14 points clear of second-place Los Blancos with three matches remaining.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vinesh-phogat-denied-entry-into-comeback-tournament-as-wrestling-federation-imposes-ban-1778325904938">Vinesh Phogat denied entry into comeback tournament as WFI imposes ban</a>This was only the second time the outcome of La Liga has been decided directly by the result of a Clasico, with record 36-time champions Real Madrid winning their first title in 1932 after a draw with Barca.Flick's team were disappointed to be knocked out in the Champions League quarter-finals by Atletico Madrid in April, but were still determined to celebrate in style."This title is more special for winning it at home against Madrid, now we have to enjoy it with the fans," Barca midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar."We have been the best team in Spain -- of course we (also) want to win the Champions League, that's the objective."Next year we will have another opportunity."Madrid arrived at the match embroiled in chaos, after midfielder Fede Valverde was ruled out with a head injury following a training ground scuffle with team-mate Aurelien Tchouameni, who started.Barca coach Flick received bad news before the game, with his father passing away, but took his place on the touchline regardless, to oversee his side's comfortable triumph."It has been a tough day. It started in the morning and I really, I'll never forget this day," Flick told fans on the pitch."I'm really proud about that we have such a team. I want to say thank you to everyone, thank you for everything, thanks for really fighting. I really appreciate that a lot."The German coach opted for the energetic Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, on the right wing in place of injured teenage star Lamine Yamal.The Catalans, who only needed to avoid defeat, came out with their eyes firmly locked on the prize, racing into a two-goal lead inside 18 minutes.Rashford opened the scoring with a superb free-kick, whipping the ball into the top left corner from a position 20 yards out, right of centre.Torres doubled the hosts' advantage at a jubilant Camp Nou, the 62,000-strong crowd enjoying the first Clasico back there since the stadium was reopened.Dani Olmo produced a clever backheel to allow Torres to burst into the box and ram past Thibaut Courtois.Gonzalo Garcia, playing in place of injured Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe, prodded narrowly wide after racing in behind Barca's high defensive line.<h2>Madrid frustration</h2>Urged on by coach Alvaro Arbeloa on the touchline, unlikely to be at the helm next season, Madrid battled to stem the bleeding.Rashford could have added a third before the break but fired wide, with Fermin Lopez unmarked and well placed to finish.Torres should have struck early in the second half but Courtois saved from the Spain international as he ran through.Jude Bellingham put the ball in Barcelona's net but the goal was ruled out for offside, while Joan Garcia thwarted Vinicius Junior.Barca fans batted inflatable beach balls around to taunt the Brazilian over his unfulfilled Ballon d'Or ambitions, and lapped up the party atmosphere.Courtois saved from substitutes Raphinha, back after injury, and Robert Lewandowski as Madrid saw out the remainder of the match without taking further damage."We can't say a lot (to the fans), because we understand the frustration, their upset, how unsatisfied they have to be with this season," Arbeloa told reporters."All we can do is work, looking towards the future, learning from everything we did badly this year, knowing that Real Madrid always come back."Flick's side remain on course to match the record of 100 points in a league season and can win all their home matches if they defeat Real Betis in the one remaining.Meanwhile Madrid finish a second consecutive season without a major trophy, staring down the barrel of a summer reshuffle, including former coach Jose Mourinho being linked with a potential return.What is clear is that for now president Florentino Perez cannot seem to find the solution to end Flick's Barca's domestic domination.

This was only the second time the outcome of La Liga has been decided directly by the result of a Clasico, with record 36-time champions Real Madrid winning their first title in 1932 after a draw with Barca.

Barcelona secured their 29th Spanish league title after beating Real Madrid 2-0 in the Clasico on Sunday. Marcus Rashford and Ferran Torres struck in the first half to help Hansi Flick's side clinch La Liga in consecutive years, while consigning Madrid to a trophyless season. Barca moved an unassailable 14 points clear of second-place Los Blancos with three matches remaining. Also Read - Vinesh Phogat denied entry into comeback tournament as WFI imposes ban This was only the second time the outcome of La Liga has been decided directly by the result of a Clasico, with record 36-time champions Real Madrid winning their first title in 1932 after a draw with Barca. Flick's team were disappointed to be knocked out in the Champions League quarter-finals by Atletico Madrid in April, but were still determined to celebrate in style. "This title is more special for winning it at home against Madrid, now we have to enjoy it with the fans," Barca midfielder Frenkie de Jong told Movistar. "We have been the best team in Spain -- of course we (also) want to win the Champions League, that's the objective. "Next year we will have another opportunity." Madrid arrived at the match embroiled in chaos, after midfielder Fede Valverde was ruled out with a head injury following a training ground scuffle with team-mate Aurelien Tchouameni, who started. Barca coach Flick received bad news before the game, with his father passing away, but took his place on the touchline regardless, to oversee his side's comfortable triumph. "It has been a tough day. It started in the morning and I really, I'll never forget this day," Flick told fans on the pitch. "I'm really proud about that we have such a team. I want to say thank you to everyone, thank you for everything, thanks for really fighting. I really appreciate that a lot." The German coach opted for the energetic Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, on the right wing in place of injured teenage star Lamine Yamal. The Catalans, who only needed to avoid defeat, came out with their eyes firmly locked on the prize, racing into a two-goal lead inside 18 minutes. Rashford opened the scoring with a superb free-kick, whipping the ball into the top left corner from a position 20 yards out, right of centre. Torres doubled the hosts' advantage at a jubilant Camp Nou, the 62,000-strong crowd enjoying the first Clasico back there since the stadium was reopened. Dani Olmo produced a clever backheel to allow Torres to burst into the box and ram past Thibaut Courtois. Gonzalo Garcia, playing in place of injured Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe, prodded narrowly wide after racing in behind Barca's high defensive line. Madrid frustration Urged on by coach Alvaro Arbeloa on the touchline, unlikely to be at the helm next season, Madrid battled to stem the bleeding. Rashford could have added a third before the break but fired wide, with Fermin Lopez unmarked and well placed to finish. Torres should have struck early in the second half but Courtois saved from the Spain international as he ran through. Jude Bellingham put the ball in Barcelona's net but the goal was ruled out for offside, while Joan Garcia thwarted Vinicius Junior. Barca fans batted inflatable beach balls around to taunt the Brazilian over his unfulfilled Ballon d'Or ambitions, and lapped up the party atmosphere. Courtois saved from substitutes Raphinha, back after injury, and Robert Lewandowski as Madrid saw out the remainder of the match without taking further damage. "We can't say a lot (to the fans), because we understand the frustration, their upset, how unsatisfied they have to be with this season," Arbeloa told reporters. "All we can do is work, looking towards the future, learning from everything we did badly this year, knowing that Real Madrid always come back." Flick's side remain on course to match the record of 100 points in a league season and can win all their home matches if they defeat Real Betis in the one remaining. Meanwhile Madrid finish a second consecutive season without a major trophy, staring down the barrel of a summer reshuffle, including former coach Jose Mourinho being linked with a potential return. What is clear is that for now president Florentino Perez cannot seem to find the solution to end Flick's Barca's domestic domination.

This was only the second time the outcome of La Liga has been decided directly by the result of a Clasico, with record 36-time champions Real Madrid winning their first title in 1932 after a draw with Barca.

Barcelona beat Real Madrid in El Clasico to win La Liga

Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian Mbappe's team has issued a statement following the footballer's criticism over travelling to Italy for a weekend getaway with actor girlfriend Ester Exposito. Mbappe was questioned by fans online over his commitment to Real Madrid before the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday (May 10) in Spanish La Liga. Barca, with four rounds to go and 11 points clear of Real Madrid, will lift the trophy if they avoid defeat vs Real Madrid on Sunday. Fans, meanwhile, are of opinion that Mbappe, who is recovering from an injury, is saving himself for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 which starts in nearly a month's time on June 11 in USA, Canada, and Mexico.<h2>What Mbappe said about travelling to Italy?</h2>The statement issued by Mbappe's team after photos of him and his girlfriend's Italy trip drew criticism on social media, read: "Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, ­without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team."Also See - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-league-who-is-leading-the-golden-boot-in-ongoing-season-check-complete-list-1777962671901">Champions League | Who is leading the golden boot race in ongoing season? check list</a>The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup."If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club," reads the petition doing rounds on social media.Mbappe is currently going recovering from a hamstring injury which he suffered against Real Betis on April 24. His absence also played a role in Real Madrid's exit from Champions League where he has the season-high 15 goals.<h2>What next for Real Madrid?</h2>Apart from the El Clasico on coming Sunday, there's nothing much going on for Real Madrid. They are 11 short of Barcelona's tally in La Liga and have already exited from Copa Del Rey as well as Champions League. With the football season coming to an end across the globe, all eyes are settled on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup.

Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian Mbappe's team has issued a statement following the footballer's criticism over travelling to Italy for a weekend getaway with actor girlfriend Ester Exposito. Mbappe was questioned by fans online over his commitment to Real Madrid before the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday (May 10) in Spanish La Liga. Barca, with four rounds to go and 11 points clear of Real Madrid, will lift the trophy if they avoid defeat vs Real Madrid on Sunday. Fans, meanwhile, are of opinion that Mbappe, who is recovering from an injury, is saving himself for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 which starts in nearly a month's time on June 11 in USA, Canada, and Mexico. What Mbappe said about travelling to Italy? The statement issued by Mbappe's team after photos of him and his girlfriend's Italy trip drew criticism on social media, read: "Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team." Also See - Champions League | Who is leading the golden boot race in ongoing season? check list The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup. "If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club," reads the petition doing rounds on social media. Mbappe is currently going recovering from a hamstring injury which he suffered against Real Betis on April 24. His absence also played a role in Real Madrid's exit from Champions League where he has the season-high 15 goals. What next for Real Madrid? Apart from the El Clasico on coming Sunday, there's nothing much going on for Real Madrid. They are 11 short of Barcelona's tally in La Liga and have already exited from Copa Del Rey as well as Champions League. With the football season coming to an end across the globe, all eyes are settled on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappe issues statement after criticism for weekend trip with actor girlfriend amid injury recovery

The race for the La Liga title is all but over as Barcelona are in pole position to clinch the title. With just six matches to go in the regular season, Barcelona will look to wrap up the title as early as possible, with them having a decisive advantage. So ahead of the final leg of La Liga, here are all the details with Barcelona looking to get one better of arch-rivals Real Madrid.<h2>What are the current standings?</h2>As things stand, Barcelona are top of La Liga with 82 points from 32 matches, a season during which they have won 27 matches. On the other hand, Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid are second with 73 points from 32 matches. This means Real can only reach a maximum of 91 points if they win all their matches from now until the end of the season.<h2>When could Barcelona win La Liga?</h2>Currently, with Real still able to reach 91 points, Hansi Flick’s side needs to reach 92 points to win La Liga. This means they need 10 more points to seal the title from the six remaining matches. This also means that if Real Madrid continue to win, Barcelona will need to win their next three matches and pick a draw on matchday 36 to seal the title.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;The title could be wrapped up early, but for that, Real Madrid should drop points, while Barcelona should continue winning. If Real Madrid lose their next two matches and Barcelona win their next matches, the title race could be settled on matchday 34.&nbsp;However, if Barcelona win their next two matches, then follow that with an El Clásico win over Real Madrid on May 10, then Flick’s men can seal the title on matchday 35.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a><h2>Can Real still win title?</h2>Technically, yes, Real Madrid can still win La Liga, but for that, they will need a huge helping hand. Firstly, Real should win all their matches while hoping Barcelona don’t pick more than eight points in their remaining six games. In case Real win all their matches and Barcelona pick nine points, both teams will end with 91 points each. Since it is assumed Real will win all their matches, they will, in turn, have a better head-to-head over Barcelona as they both meet on matchday 35.

As things stand, Barcelona are top of La Liga with 82 points from 32 matches, a season during which they have won 27 matches. On the other hand, Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid are second with 73 points from 32 matches. 

The race for the La Liga title is all but over as Barcelona are in pole position to clinch the title. With just six matches to go in the regular season, Barcelona will look to wrap up the title as early as possible, with them having a decisive advantage. So ahead of the final leg of La Liga, here are all the details with Barcelona looking to get one better of arch-rivals Real Madrid. What are the current standings? As things stand, Barcelona are top of La Liga with 82 points from 32 matches, a season during which they have won 27 matches. On the other hand, Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid are second with 73 points from 32 matches. This means Real can only reach a maximum of 91 points if they win all their matches from now until the end of the season. When could Barcelona win La Liga? Currently, with Real still able to reach 91 points, Hansi Flick’s side needs to reach 92 points to win La Liga. This means they need 10 more points to seal the title from the six remaining matches. This also means that if Real Madrid continue to win, Barcelona will need to win their next three matches and pick a draw on matchday 36 to seal the title. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The title could be wrapped up early, but for that, Real Madrid should drop points, while Barcelona should continue winning. If Real Madrid lose their next two matches and Barcelona win their next matches, the title race could be settled on matchday 34. However, if Barcelona win their next two matches, then follow that with an El Clásico win over Real Madrid on May 10, then Flick’s men can seal the title on matchday 35. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Can Real still win title? Technically, yes, Real Madrid can still win La Liga, but for that, they will need a huge helping hand. Firstly, Real should win all their matches while hoping Barcelona don’t pick more than eight points in their remaining six games. In case Real win all their matches and Barcelona pick nine points, both teams will end with 91 points each. Since it is assumed Real will win all their matches, they will, in turn, have a better head-to-head over Barcelona as they both meet on matchday 35.

As things stand, Barcelona are top of La Liga with 82 points from 32 matches, a season during which they have won 27 matches. On the other hand, Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid are second with 73 points from 32 matches.&nbsp;

All permutations explained: When could Barcelona win La Liga title

Real Madrid star man and former Birmingham City player, Jude Bellingham, has invested in The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix as he showed affection for his hometown. The Hundred, England’s premier short-form cricket format, has been in the news for multiple reasons recently; however, the headlines belonged to Bellingham, who now owns a stake in the franchise. Speaking after buying a stake, Bellingham was full of gratitude for his hometown, from where he started his journey as a sportsman.<h2>Bellingham pays tribute to Birmingham</h2>The England midfielder has taken a 1.2 per cent holding in the Edgbaston-based Hundred team at a reported cost of over £800,000 ($1 million). The Phoenix franchise was valued at around £82million when Knighthead Capital acquired a 49 per cent stake last year during a sales process initiated by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Bellingham, who was brought up in nearby Stourbridge and began his career at Birmingham City, is a big cricket fan and played for Hagley in Worcestershire as a junior.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;"I love Birmingham. I'm very grateful for what the whole city of Birmingham has done for me," said the 22-year-old.&nbsp;"I love cricket as well, so when I got the opportunity to get involved, I didn't really think twice about it, so I'm so happy to be on board.&nbsp;"I got the best upbringing in football, in life, through Birmingham City. I feel like I owe the city something."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Legendary NFL quarterback Tom Brady is also part of the Knighthead group that owns Birmingham City. Stakes in the eight city-based franchises -- which all have men's and women's teams -- were sold last year to private investors, raising huge sums for cricket in England and Wales. The 2026 edition of the Hundred starts on July 21 and runs for four weeks.

The Hundred, England’s premier short-form cricket format, has been in the news for multiple reasons recently; however, the headlines belonged to Jude Bellingham, who now owns a stake in the franchise.

Real Madrid star man and former Birmingham City player, Jude Bellingham, has invested in The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix as he showed affection for his hometown. The Hundred, England’s premier short-form cricket format, has been in the news for multiple reasons recently; however, the headlines belonged to Bellingham, who now owns a stake in the franchise. Speaking after buying a stake, Bellingham was full of gratitude for his hometown, from where he started his journey as a sportsman. Bellingham pays tribute to Birmingham The England midfielder has taken a 1.2 per cent holding in the Edgbaston-based Hundred team at a reported cost of over £800,000 ($1 million). The Phoenix franchise was valued at around £82million when Knighthead Capital acquired a 49 per cent stake last year during a sales process initiated by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Bellingham, who was brought up in nearby Stourbridge and began his career at Birmingham City, is a big cricket fan and played for Hagley in Worcestershire as a junior. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions "I love Birmingham. I'm very grateful for what the whole city of Birmingham has done for me," said the 22-year-old. "I love cricket as well, so when I got the opportunity to get involved, I didn't really think twice about it, so I'm so happy to be on board. "I got the best upbringing in football, in life, through Birmingham City. I feel like I owe the city something." ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Legendary NFL quarterback Tom Brady is also part of the Knighthead group that owns Birmingham City. Stakes in the eight city-based franchises -- which all have men's and women's teams -- were sold last year to private investors, raising huge sums for cricket in England and Wales. The 2026 edition of the Hundred starts on July 21 and runs for four weeks.

The Hundred, England’s premier short-form cricket format, has been in the news for multiple reasons recently; however, the headlines belonged to Jude Bellingham, who now owns a stake in the franchise.

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham buys stake in The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix, says 'grateful for the city'

Late goals from Luis Daaz and Michael Olise secured a thrilling 4–3 victory for Bayern Munich over Real Madrid on Wednesday, sealing a 6–4 aggregate win and booking a Champions League semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain.The second leg at the Allianz Arena was a chaotic, high-intensity contest, with Real Madrid leading three times on the night despite Bayern’s advantage from a 2–1 first-leg win in Spain.&nbsp;Real stunned the home crowd inside 34 seconds when Arda Güler capitalised on a misplaced Manuel Neuer pass to score the opener. He struck again later in the half with a superb free-kick after Aleksandar Pavlović had levelled for Bayern. Harry Kane restored Bayern’s advantage in the tie, but Kylian Mbappé responded to put Madrid 3–2 up on the night, bringing the aggregate score level before half-time.&nbsp;The game swung again late on after Eduardo Camavinga was sent off for a second yellow card with four minutes remaining. Bayern pressed the advantage, and Luis Díaz fired home from distance after a deflection to put the hosts back in control. As Real pushed for a late equaliser, Michael Olise sealed the win with a stunning curled finish in stoppage time, sending Bayern into the semi-finals against PSG.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-s-vaishali-rameshbabu-scripts-history-beats-gm-kateryna-lagno-to-win-2026-fide-women-s-candidates-1776283355299">India's Vaishali Rameshbabu scripts history, beats Kateryna Lagno to win 2026 FIDE Women's Candidates</a>&nbsp;Tempers flared after the final whistle when Guler was shown a straight red card for confronting the referee. The match also marked a historic first for Real Madrid, who fielded a starting XI without a single Spanish player. Jude Bellingham started on the bench after the first leg, alongside several tactical changes made by coach Arbeloa. Neuer endured a difficult night, having earlier gifted Real the opening goal with an errant pass directly to Güler.&nbsp;Bayern responded quickly through Pavlović’s header from a Joshua Kimmich corner after a lapse from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Despite Madrid’s attacking pressure and goals from Güler and Mbappé, Bayern’s resilience and late attacking quality proved decisive.<h2>Arsenal beat Sporting Lisbon to advance to semis</h2>Elsewhere, Arsenal also progressed to the Champions League semi-finals after a goalless draw against Sporting Lisbon secured a 1–0 aggregate victory. Mikel Arteta’s side endured a nervy night at the Emirates but held firm to reach the last four for the second consecutive season, a first in the club’s history.&nbsp;Geny Catamo came closest for Sporting, striking the post in the first half, but Arsenal advanced despite a below-par performance. The Gunners, who last reached the final in 2006, will face Real Madrid in the semi-finals, with the first leg set for April 29 and the return leg at the Emirates on May 5.

Champions League: Bayern Munich edge out Real Madrid; Arsenal beat Sporting Lisbon to book place in semis

Late goals from Luis Daaz and Michael Olise secured a thrilling 4–3 victory for Bayern Munich over Real Madrid on Wednesday, sealing a 6–4 aggregate win and booking a Champions League semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain. The second leg at the Allianz Arena was a chaotic, high-intensity contest, with Real Madrid leading three times on the night despite Bayern’s advantage from a 2–1 first-leg win in Spain. Real stunned the home crowd inside 34 seconds when Arda Güler capitalised on a misplaced Manuel Neuer pass to score the opener. He struck again later in the half with a superb free-kick after Aleksandar Pavlović had levelled for Bayern. Harry Kane restored Bayern’s advantage in the tie, but Kylian Mbappé responded to put Madrid 3–2 up on the night, bringing the aggregate score level before half-time. The game swung again late on after Eduardo Camavinga was sent off for a second yellow card with four minutes remaining. Bayern pressed the advantage, and Luis Díaz fired home from distance after a deflection to put the hosts back in control. As Real pushed for a late equaliser, Michael Olise sealed the win with a stunning curled finish in stoppage time, sending Bayern into the semi-finals against PSG. Also Read: India's Vaishali Rameshbabu scripts history, beats Kateryna Lagno to win 2026 FIDE Women's Candidates Tempers flared after the final whistle when Guler was shown a straight red card for confronting the referee. The match also marked a historic first for Real Madrid, who fielded a starting XI without a single Spanish player. Jude Bellingham started on the bench after the first leg, alongside several tactical changes made by coach Arbeloa. Neuer endured a difficult night, having earlier gifted Real the opening goal with an errant pass directly to Güler. Bayern responded quickly through Pavlović’s header from a Joshua Kimmich corner after a lapse from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Despite Madrid’s attacking pressure and goals from Güler and Mbappé, Bayern’s resilience and late attacking quality proved decisive. Arsenal beat Sporting Lisbon to advance to semis Elsewhere, Arsenal also progressed to the Champions League semi-finals after a goalless draw against Sporting Lisbon secured a 1–0 aggregate victory. Mikel Arteta’s side endured a nervy night at the Emirates but held firm to reach the last four for the second consecutive season, a first in the club’s history. Geny Catamo came closest for Sporting, striking the post in the first half, but Arsenal advanced despite a below-par performance. The Gunners, who last reached the final in 2006, will face Real Madrid in the semi-finals, with the first leg set for April 29 and the return leg at the Emirates on May 5.

Bayern Munich staged a thrilling comeback against Real Madrid to book their place in the semi-finals as Arsenal beat Sporting Lisbon on aggregate to book their place in the last four

A place in the Champions League semifinal will be up for grabs as 15-time champions Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the second leg on Wednesday (April 15). Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. So ahead of the all-important second leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, here is all you need to know.&nbsp;What is the head-to-head record for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in Champions League history?Not much separates both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in overall head-to-head records, with the hosts of Wednesday’s match winning 13 while Madrid have won 12 in 29 previous meetings. Four matches have ended in draws between the sides.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;What is the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?The Allianz Arena in Munich will be the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg.&nbsp;When will the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League start?The Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Champions League clash starts at 12:30 a.m. IST and 8:00 p.m. GMT.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Which channel will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.&nbsp;Which platform will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League?Sony Live will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.

Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern Munich in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. 

A place in the Champions League semifinal will be up for grabs as 15-time champions Real Madrid face Bayern Munich in the second leg on Wednesday (April 15). Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis. So ahead of the all-important second leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, here is all you need to know. What is the head-to-head record for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in Champions League history? Not much separates both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in overall head-to-head records, with the hosts of Wednesday’s match winning 13 while Madrid have won 12 in 29 previous meetings. Four matches have ended in draws between the sides. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions What is the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? The Allianz Arena in Munich will be the venue for the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg. When will the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League start? The Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Champions League clash starts at 12:30 a.m. IST and 8:00 p.m. GMT. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Which channel will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? The Sony Sports Network will broadcast the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India. Which platform will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League? Sony Live will live-stream the Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash in the Champions League in India.

Down 1-2 from the first leg, Real Madrid will face an uphill task when they face Bayern Munich in their backyard at the Allianz Arena, knowing anything less than a win will see them miss out on a spot in the semis.&nbsp;

Champions League: All you need to know about Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid clash

India's Under 12 football team has emerged as champions at the prestigious Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge, held at the iconic training complex of Real Madrid in Madrid, Spain. Competing against some of the best youth teams from across the globe, the Indian U12 side delivered a composed and commanding performance throughout the tournament. Facing leading footballing nations, the team combined tactical discipline with attacking flair to secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Brazil in a gripping final, according to a press release. This achievement gains further significance given the scale and pedigree of the tournament, hosted by a leading European club, and reflects the steady rise of India's grassroots football ecosystem while setting a new benchmark for youth development in the country.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a> The annual tournament, conducted during Easter week, brought together over 80 teams and more than 1,000 young players across U10, U12 and U14 categories, representing regions including Europe, North America, South America and South Asia. Hosted at Real Madrid's famed Sports City, the event offers young athletes a rare opportunity to compete on the same pitches graced by global stars such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. India's campaign stood out not only for its championship win but also for its overall consistency and competitive excellence. The Indian U14 contingent also progressed to the semi-finals, going down to Italy in a nail-biting five-goal thriller, with Italy scoring the decisive goal late in the second half. Both teams demonstrated depth in talent and resilience against top-tier international opposition, contributing to India's strong overall presence at the tournament.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a> The Indian squads, comprising players from Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, represented a unified national effort as part of the Conscient Sports program. Their journey to the top included notable victories against teams from Spain, Germany, Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, the USA, Canada, Malaysia, Azerbaijan and Morocco, underscoring the global competitiveness of the event. Adding to the prestige of the tournament, Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos attended as the official ambassador, interacting with players and inspiring the next generation of football talent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India's Under 12 football team has emerged as champions at the prestigious Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge, held at the iconic training complex of Real Madrid in Madrid, Spain.

India's Under 12 football team has emerged as champions at the prestigious Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge, held at the iconic training complex of Real Madrid in Madrid, Spain. Competing against some of the best youth teams from across the globe, the Indian U12 side delivered a composed and commanding performance throughout the tournament. Facing leading footballing nations, the team combined tactical discipline with attacking flair to secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Brazil in a gripping final, according to a press release. This achievement gains further significance given the scale and pedigree of the tournament, hosted by a leading European club, and reflects the steady rise of India's grassroots football ecosystem while setting a new benchmark for youth development in the country. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The annual tournament, conducted during Easter week, brought together over 80 teams and more than 1,000 young players across U10, U12 and U14 categories, representing regions including Europe, North America, South America and South Asia. Hosted at Real Madrid's famed Sports City, the event offers young athletes a rare opportunity to compete on the same pitches graced by global stars such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. India's campaign stood out not only for its championship win but also for its overall consistency and competitive excellence. The Indian U14 contingent also progressed to the semi-finals, going down to Italy in a nail-biting five-goal thriller, with Italy scoring the decisive goal late in the second half. Both teams demonstrated depth in talent and resilience against top-tier international opposition, contributing to India's strong overall presence at the tournament. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions The Indian squads, comprising players from Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, represented a unified national effort as part of the Conscient Sports program. Their journey to the top included notable victories against teams from Spain, Germany, Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, the USA, Canada, Malaysia, Azerbaijan and Morocco, underscoring the global competitiveness of the event. Adding to the prestige of the tournament, Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos attended as the official ambassador, interacting with players and inspiring the next generation of football talent. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India's Under 12 football team has emerged as champions at the prestigious Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge, held at the iconic training complex of Real Madrid in Madrid, Spain.

India's U12 football team scripts history at Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge

Champions League | Arsenal beat Sporting 1-0 while Bayern Munich beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of quarter-final on Tuesday (Apr 7). The sides will face off in the second leg a week later.

Champions League | Arsenal beat Sporting 1-0 while Bayern Munich beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of quarter-final on Tuesday (Apr 7). The sides will face off in the second leg a week later.

Champions League | Arsenal vs Sporting & Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid - check full result

Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich visit Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League quarter-finals high on confidence and looking like Europe's most complete side, bolstered by the likely return of superstar striker Harry Kane. Record 15-time winners Madrid have endured a difficult season, plagued by inconsistency, but have made a habit of pulling off the unexpected in this competition. Just as it seemed their well of Champions League magic was running dry, Madrid produced their best performance of the season to crush Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the last 16.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erling-haaland-hat-trick-helps-man-city-thrash-liverpool-to-reach-fa-cup-semis-1775315949507">Erling Haaland hat-trick helps Man City thrash Liverpool to reach FA Cup semis</a>Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy."It would be presumptuous to assume that we'll definitely advance," said honorary Bayern president Uli Hoeness. "But we haven't had such great chances in terms of the playing quality as we have this year in a long time."Kane, who has scored 48 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this season, missed Bayern's battling 3-2 Bundesliga win at Freiburg on Saturday with an ankle issue."He'd play in a wheelchair," said Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, while Kompany added that he had "a feeling" that the England striker would be ready.With Michael Olise and Luis Diaz joining Kane in attack, Kompany's side play an aggressive, high-pressing style which helped them demolish Atalanta in the last 16, 10-2 on aggregate.Bayern came from two goals down to beat Freiburg and match-winner Lennart Karl said that fighting spirit was crucial heading into the Madrid clash."It gives us a lot of confidence. It was very important -- we actually feel unbeatable at the moment," he said, with Bayern's last defeat coming in January, 14 matches ago.In that same period Madrid have lost four times, with coach Alvaro Arbeloa struggling to find the right balance when all his superstars are fit, just like Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti before him."They're not playing the best football, but they're outstanding in terms of experience," noted Hoeness.<h2>Bernabeu factor</h2>Madrid fell to a disappointing defeat at Mallorca in La Liga on Saturday, leaving them seven points behind rivals Barcelona in the Spanish title race.Arbeloa brushed off the loss and said it would have no bearing on his team's performance against Bayern, in the club's favoured competition."I know what my players are capable of, I know they understand the importance of Tuesday's game," Arbeloa told reporters."The demand on the team will be maximum and I know the support that Madrid fans will offer us -- with them, everything is easier."Bayern are well aware of the impact of Madrid's supporters on big European nights at the Bernabeu, which, along with the weight of history and sublime individual quality, helps Los Blancos pull off remarkable results even when the odds are against them."It's the stadium and the fans who, together with the team, transform into a hurricane that sweeps over the opponent," said Bayern powerbroker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge."You need nerves of steel, you have to stay calm, and you have to be mentally prepared... it's not just an ordinary game. It will be the toughest test."Two Bayern players who understand that more than most are goalkeepers Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich, who have both cracked in the Bernabeu pressure cooker before.In the 2018 semi-final Ulreich went to pick up a back pass before suddenly realising his mistake and let it run past him, with Karim Benzema tapping into the empty net.Madrid went on to win that tie, as they have on all of the last four knockouts against Bayern. In each of those years, they went on to lift the trophy.In the 2024 semi-finals former Stoke City striker Joselu struck twice in the dying embers of the second leg, the first after a Neuer handling error, to send Bayern crashing out.No teams have faced each other more in the competition, with Tuesday's match the 29th occasion Madrid will meet Bayern.The German giants last eliminated Los Blancos in 2012 but believe they finally have the quality this year to rewrite the narrative of the last decade.

Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy.

Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich visit Real Madrid on Tuesday in the Champions League quarter-finals high on confidence and looking like Europe's most complete side, bolstered by the likely return of superstar striker Harry Kane. Record 15-time winners Madrid have endured a difficult season, plagued by inconsistency, but have made a habit of pulling off the unexpected in this competition. Just as it seemed their well of Champions League magic was running dry, Madrid produced their best performance of the season to crush Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the last 16. Also Read - Erling Haaland hat-trick helps Man City thrash Liverpool to reach FA Cup semis Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy. "It would be presumptuous to assume that we'll definitely advance," said honorary Bayern president Uli Hoeness. "But we haven't had such great chances in terms of the playing quality as we have this year in a long time." Kane, who has scored 48 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this season, missed Bayern's battling 3-2 Bundesliga win at Freiburg on Saturday with an ankle issue. "He'd play in a wheelchair," said Bayern midfielder Joshua Kimmich, while Kompany added that he had "a feeling" that the England striker would be ready. With Michael Olise and Luis Diaz joining Kane in attack, Kompany's side play an aggressive, high-pressing style which helped them demolish Atalanta in the last 16, 10-2 on aggregate. Bayern came from two goals down to beat Freiburg and match-winner Lennart Karl said that fighting spirit was crucial heading into the Madrid clash. "It gives us a lot of confidence. It was very important -- we actually feel unbeatable at the moment," he said, with Bayern's last defeat coming in January, 14 matches ago. In that same period Madrid have lost four times, with coach Alvaro Arbeloa struggling to find the right balance when all his superstars are fit, just like Xabi Alonso and Carlo Ancelotti before him. "They're not playing the best football, but they're outstanding in terms of experience," noted Hoeness. Bernabeu factor Madrid fell to a disappointing defeat at Mallorca in La Liga on Saturday, leaving them seven points behind rivals Barcelona in the Spanish title race. Arbeloa brushed off the loss and said it would have no bearing on his team's performance against Bayern, in the club's favoured competition. "I know what my players are capable of, I know they understand the importance of Tuesday's game," Arbeloa told reporters. "The demand on the team will be maximum and I know the support that Madrid fans will offer us -- with them, everything is easier." Bayern are well aware of the impact of Madrid's supporters on big European nights at the Bernabeu, which, along with the weight of history and sublime individual quality, helps Los Blancos pull off remarkable results even when the odds are against them. "It's the stadium and the fans who, together with the team, transform into a hurricane that sweeps over the opponent," said Bayern powerbroker Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "You need nerves of steel, you have to stay calm, and you have to be mentally prepared... it's not just an ordinary game. It will be the toughest test." Two Bayern players who understand that more than most are goalkeepers Manuel Neuer and Sven Ulreich, who have both cracked in the Bernabeu pressure cooker before. In the 2018 semi-final Ulreich went to pick up a back pass before suddenly realising his mistake and let it run past him, with Karim Benzema tapping into the empty net. Madrid went on to win that tie, as they have on all of the last four knockouts against Bayern. In each of those years, they went on to lift the trophy. In the 2024 semi-finals former Stoke City striker Joselu struck twice in the dying embers of the second leg, the first after a Neuer handling error, to send Bayern crashing out. No teams have faced each other more in the competition, with Tuesday's match the 29th occasion Madrid will meet Bayern. The German giants last eliminated Los Blancos in 2012 but believe they finally have the quality this year to rewrite the narrative of the last decade.

Despite Madrid's prestige and troupe of attacking stars -- Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Jude Bellingham included, as well as City hat-trick hero Federico Valverde -- Bayern are arguably favourites to lift the trophy.

Real Madrid hope for Champions League luck to come back against Bayern Munich

Kylian Mbappé has denied sensational reports that Real Madrid’s medical team scanned the wrong knee and misdiagnosed his injury. The France captain called the claims false and clarified that communication lapses-not a medical blunder-fueled the rumors. He says his recovery is on track as he prepares for France duty.

Real Madrid Knee Controversy: Mbappé Responds to Rumors About Real Madrid Knee Scan

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

Champions League | Who's in and who's out? - Check all teams in quarter-finals and last 8 match-ups

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-host-iran-football-world-cup-matches-if-fifa-approves-mexico-president-us-donald-trump-1773770109017">'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President</a>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish.Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour."We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus.PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg.Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm.Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season.<h2>Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt</h2>Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night."All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running.Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match.Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success.They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice.Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen."We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta.His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals.The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon.Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time.Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end.Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had. Also Read - 'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish. Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour. "We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus. PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate. Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm. Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season. Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night. "All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running. Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match. Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success. They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice. Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen. "We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta. His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals. The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon. Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time. Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end. Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Champions League | PSG, Real Madrid, Arsenal through last 8; Bodo/Glimt's fairy tale run ends

Kylian Mbappe is ready to return from injury as Real Madrid aim to eliminate Manchester City in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday. Mbappe was sidelined by a knee injury for Real's 3-0 win over City in the first leg in Madrid last week. But the France forward, who has scored 38 goals in 33 appearances this season, is set to feature at the Etihad Stadium."Mbappe is ready to play," Real boss Alvaro Arbeloa told reporters on Monday.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-willian-transfers-investigated-premier-league-punishes-chelsea-with-10-75m-fine-suspended-transfer-ban-2026-1773676350418">Hazard, Willian Transfers Investigated: PL punishes Chelsea with £10.75m fine</a>"I cannot wait to see him back on the pitch, to enjoy watching him play, to score the goals he scores. Of course he'll be important."England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City."Bellingham wanted to come with his team-mates," Arbeloa said."I'm very happy to see him getting closer to the team. It is important to be around his team-mates, during the team-talk and at half-time he'll be one of the leaders as he always is."Real are expected to knock City out of the Champions League for a third successive season after establishing a substantial first leg advantage.Real defender Antonio Rudiger believes the key to victory is stopping City striker Erling Haaland from rediscovering his top form after a poor recent run."Players like Haaland, it's a huge pleasure to play against this type of player," Rudiger said."I like the physical battle, I want it and need it, the same as him. I'm looking forward to it."He's a world-class striker, very strong, and I like these type of duels."Rudiger acknowledged his combative approach as he addressed recent claims from Getafe defender Diego Rico about his conduct.Rico said Rudiger committed an "assault" against him in a challenge earlier this month."In slow motion it looks terrible but in the action itself and also what the player said, it was like I almost killed him," Rudiger said."He doesn't need to exaggerate because if I'd had the intention to do that he wouldn't have stood up."I don't justify it but the way he spoke after the game was like I killed him, but he was running afterwards."We all know I like to be tough on the pitch but I still have boundaries. I am a human being."

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City.

Kylian Mbappe is ready to return from injury as Real Madrid aim to eliminate Manchester City in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday. Mbappe was sidelined by a knee injury for Real's 3-0 win over City in the first leg in Madrid last week. But the France forward, who has scored 38 goals in 33 appearances this season, is set to feature at the Etihad Stadium. "Mbappe is ready to play," Real boss Alvaro Arbeloa told reporters on Monday. Also Read - Hazard, Willian Transfers Investigated: PL punishes Chelsea with £10.75m fine "I cannot wait to see him back on the pitch, to enjoy watching him play, to score the goals he scores. Of course he'll be important." England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City. "Bellingham wanted to come with his team-mates," Arbeloa said. "I'm very happy to see him getting closer to the team. It is important to be around his team-mates, during the team-talk and at half-time he'll be one of the leaders as he always is." Real are expected to knock City out of the Champions League for a third successive season after establishing a substantial first leg advantage. Real defender Antonio Rudiger believes the key to victory is stopping City striker Erling Haaland from rediscovering his top form after a poor recent run. "Players like Haaland, it's a huge pleasure to play against this type of player," Rudiger said. "I like the physical battle, I want it and need it, the same as him. I'm looking forward to it. "He's a world-class striker, very strong, and I like these type of duels." Rudiger acknowledged his combative approach as he addressed recent claims from Getafe defender Diego Rico about his conduct. Rico said Rudiger committed an "assault" against him in a challenge earlier this month. "In slow motion it looks terrible but in the action itself and also what the player said, it was like I almost killed him," Rudiger said. "He doesn't need to exaggerate because if I'd had the intention to do that he wouldn't have stood up. "I don't justify it but the way he spoke after the game was like I killed him, but he was running afterwards. "We all know I like to be tough on the pitch but I still have boundaries. I am a human being."

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City.

Champions League R16: Mbappe to turn up for Real Madrid vs Man City in second leg

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-replace-iran-at-fifa-world-cup-2026-after-sports-minister-cannot-participate-claim-iraq-uae-donald-trump-israel-us-war-west-asia-conflict-1773246224722">Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim?</a>"(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this."Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running.The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz.City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian."I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week."In football you never know. We will try."PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes.Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level.Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto.A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time."It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form."There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team."Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on."A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said."We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't."<h2>Arsenal leave it late</h2>Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week.Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen.Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany.But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals."I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz."We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week."Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition.Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time.Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe. Also Read - Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim? "(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this." Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running. The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz. City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian. "I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week. "In football you never know. We will try." PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes. Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level. Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto. A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time. "It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form. "There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team." Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on. "A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said. "We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't." Arsenal leave it late Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week. Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen. Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany. But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals. "I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz. "We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week." Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition. Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time. Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Champions League R16 | Real Madrid trounce Man City, PSG sink Chelsea and Arsenal draw against Levekusen

The Champions League Round of 16 has thrown up some interesting draws, as some heavyweights of the game are set to collide in the pre-quarterfinal stage. In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. Spurs, on the other hand, have been paired off with Atletico Madrid as the two will meet for the first time in a competitive match since 1963.<h2>Real Madrid-Man City to face off again</h2>The Spanish giants, record 15-time European champions, will host City in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next month before travelling to England for the return the following week.&nbsp;The clubs have already played each other this season, with Pep Guardiola's City winning 2-1 in Madrid in December during the league phase, in which the Premier League club finished eighth and Real ninth.&nbsp;That allowed City, Champions League winners in 2023, to advance straight to the last 16 while Madrid had to come through the knockout phase play-offs, in which they beat Benfica 3-1 on aggregate.<h2>2025-26 Champions League round of 16: Full draw</h2>- PSG vs Chelsea- Galatasaray vs Liverpool- Real Madrid vs City- Atalanta vs Bayern Munich&nbsp;- Newcastle vs Barcelona- Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham- Bodø/Glimt vs Sporting- Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;PSG will be at home to Chelsea in the first leg after qualifying for this stage with a 5-4 aggregate win over Ligue 1 rivals Monaco in the play-offs. Chelsea progressed straight to the last 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase.&nbsp;There is a record total of six English clubs in the last 16. None will play each other in the last 16 but there are two potential all-English quarter-finals.&nbsp;Liverpool will have a last-16 rematch against Galatasaray, the Turkish giants having defeated the Anfield club 1-0 in September in the league phase.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Newcastle United will take on Barcelona with the first leg at St James' Park -- the Spanish side won 2-1 there during the league phase in September.&nbsp;Tottenham Hotspur were drawn to play Atletico Madrid, with the winners of that tie then facing Newcastle or Barcelona in the last eight.&nbsp;Arsenal, who finished first in the league phase, will come up against Bayer Leverkusen and if they win that would then be huge favourites in a quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt or Sporting of Portugal.

In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. 

The Champions League Round of 16 has thrown up some interesting draws, as some heavyweights of the game are set to collide in the pre-quarterfinal stage. In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final. Spurs, on the other hand, have been paired off with Atletico Madrid as the two will meet for the first time in a competitive match since 1963. Real Madrid-Man City to face off again The Spanish giants, record 15-time European champions, will host City in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next month before travelling to England for the return the following week. The clubs have already played each other this season, with Pep Guardiola's City winning 2-1 in Madrid in December during the league phase, in which the Premier League club finished eighth and Real ninth. That allowed City, Champions League winners in 2023, to advance straight to the last 16 while Madrid had to come through the knockout phase play-offs, in which they beat Benfica 3-1 on aggregate. 2025-26 Champions League round of 16: Full draw - PSG vs Chelsea - Galatasaray vs Liverpool - Real Madrid vs City - Atalanta vs Bayern Munich - Newcastle vs Barcelona - Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham - Bodø/Glimt vs Sporting - Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds PSG will be at home to Chelsea in the first leg after qualifying for this stage with a 5-4 aggregate win over Ligue 1 rivals Monaco in the play-offs. Chelsea progressed straight to the last 16 after finishing sixth in the league phase. There is a record total of six English clubs in the last 16. None will play each other in the last 16 but there are two potential all-English quarter-finals. Liverpool will have a last-16 rematch against Galatasaray, the Turkish giants having defeated the Anfield club 1-0 in September in the league phase. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Meanwhile, Newcastle United will take on Barcelona with the first leg at St James' Park -- the Spanish side won 2-1 there during the league phase in September. Tottenham Hotspur were drawn to play Atletico Madrid, with the winners of that tie then facing Newcastle or Barcelona in the last eight. Arsenal, who finished first in the league phase, will come up against Bayer Leverkusen and if they win that would then be huge favourites in a quarter-final against Bodo/Glimt or Sporting of Portugal.

In the draws made on Friday (Feb 27), Man City have been drawn against Real Madrid, as the two rivals meet again, having also squared off in the league stage. In another tie, defending champions PSG face Chelsea in a repeat of the Club World Cup final.&nbsp;

Champions League: Man City-Real Madrid to square off in R16, PSG face Chelsea in high-voltage clash

The Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff has eventually found something controversial to be associated with. The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica player and the match was stopped good 10 minutes before restarting. As for the result Real Madrid won both the legs and advanced to the R16 with an aggregate score of 3-1.<h2>Another controversy hits Real Madrid vs Benfica</h2>Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The Spanish club issued a statement on the incident and informed asking the disciplinary committee "to initiate an immediate expulsion procedure" against the person concerned.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-how-round-of-16-draw-works-check-date-venue-and-all-possible-match-ups-1772091553761">Champions League - How round of 16 draw works? Check all possible match-ups</a>"Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society," the statement further read.<h2>Real Madrid vs Benfica first-leg controversy</h2>The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-reveals-what-benfica-s-prestianni-said-to-real-madrid-s-vinicius-jr-in-alleged-racial-abuse-1771377432674">Vinicus Jr &nbsp;was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni</a> during the first-leg match in Lisbon. The match was stopped for 10 minutes before it started again and Vini ensured hsi team wins 1-0 before doing the same in Madrid on Feb 25.After the racism incident, UEFA provisonally banned Prestianni for one match pending a detailed investigation which could lead to futher punishment for the Benfica player, who denied racially abusing Vini Jr.<h2>Real Madrid in Champions League R16</h2>With the win in knockout playoffs, Real Madris will either face Sporting CP or Manchester City in the Round 16 which begins Mar 10. The draw for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-round-of-16-teams-bracket-draw-match-ups-and-knockout-playoff-results-1772080353341">Champions League R16</a> will be held on Friday (Feb 27) at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.&nbsp;

The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused.

The Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg match in Champions League knockout playoff has eventually found something controversial to be associated with. The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica player and the match was stopped good 10 minutes before restarting. As for the result Real Madrid won both the legs and advanced to the R16 with an aggregate score of 3-1. Another controversy hits Real Madrid vs Benfica Before the start of the second-leg match, the cameras panning on the spectators present in the stadium caught one of them gesturing a Nazi salute. The secutiy officials identified the person soon after the incident and the fan was subsequently ejected from the ground. The Spanish club issued a statement on the incident and informed asking the disciplinary committee "to initiate an immediate expulsion procedure" against the person concerned. Also Read - Champions League - How round of 16 draw works? Check all possible match-ups "Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society," the statement further read. Real Madrid vs Benfica first-leg controversy The incident at the Santiago Bernabeu came after Real Madrid player Vinicus Jr was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during the first-leg match in Lisbon. The match was stopped for 10 minutes before it started again and Vini ensured hsi team wins 1-0 before doing the same in Madrid on Feb 25. After the racism incident, UEFA provisonally banned Prestianni for one match pending a detailed investigation which could lead to futher punishment for the Benfica player, who denied racially abusing Vini Jr. Real Madrid in Champions League R16 With the win in knockout playoffs, Real Madris will either face Sporting CP or Manchester City in the Round 16 which begins Mar 10. The draw for Champions League R16 will be held on Friday (Feb 27) at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.

The match, played at Santiago Bernabeu - home of Real Madrid, on Wednesday (Feb 25), saw one of the spectators raise a Nazi salute. The Spanish giants have launched a probe into the incident. In the first-leg of the playoff between the two teams, Real Madrid's Vinicus Jr was racially abused.

Champions League | 'Nazi salute after racism': Real Madrid vs Benfica second-leg also hit with controversy

In the latest development in the racial abuse of Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid has submitted “all available evidence” to the UEFA (European football’s governing body) as of Thursday (Feb 19). Vinicius Jr, runners-up in the Ballon d’Or in 2024, was alleged to have been racially abused in their Champions League Playoff clash between Real Madrid and Benfica. In the wake of the incident, UEFA has launched an investigation into the matter as Real Madrid submitted their side of evidence.&nbsp;<h2>Real Madrid submit all evidence</h2>Tuesday's first leg of the knockout phase play-off tie in Lisbon was stopped for 10 minutes after Vinicius told the referee Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni had called him a "monkey" during a confrontation.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;The Argentine midfielder, who covered his mouth during the argument after Vinicius had celebrated a goal dancing in front of the home fans, denies the allegation.&nbsp;UEFA announced on Wednesday it would investigate "allegations of discriminatory behaviour" as a furore broke out, with teammates rushing to back Vinicius, who has repeatedly suffered racist abuse since joining Real in 2018.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Real Madrid has submitted all available evidence to UEFA regarding the incidents during the Benfica game, which witnessed "unacceptable episodes of racism", the club said in a statement.&nbsp;"Real Madrid appreciates the unanimous support, backing, and affection that our player Vinicius Jr. has received from all areas of the global football community."&nbsp;Benfica issued a statement on Wednesday backing Prestianni and speaking of a "defamation campaign" against him, while manager Jose Mourinho questioned Vinicius's celebration.&nbsp;It will now interesting to see what happens next with the second leg set to take place next week.&nbsp;

UEFA announced on Wednesday it would investigate "allegations of discriminatory behaviour" as a furore broke out, with teammates rushing to back Vinicius, who has repeatedly suffered racist abuse since joining Real in 2018.

In the latest development in the racial abuse of Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid has submitted “all available evidence” to the UEFA (European football’s governing body) as of Thursday (Feb 19). Vinicius Jr, runners-up in the Ballon d’Or in 2024, was alleged to have been racially abused in their Champions League Playoff clash between Real Madrid and Benfica. In the wake of the incident, UEFA has launched an investigation into the matter as Real Madrid submitted their side of evidence. Real Madrid submit all evidence Tuesday's first leg of the knockout phase play-off tie in Lisbon was stopped for 10 minutes after Vinicius told the referee Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni had called him a "monkey" during a confrontation. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli The Argentine midfielder, who covered his mouth during the argument after Vinicius had celebrated a goal dancing in front of the home fans, denies the allegation. UEFA announced on Wednesday it would investigate "allegations of discriminatory behaviour" as a furore broke out, with teammates rushing to back Vinicius, who has repeatedly suffered racist abuse since joining Real in 2018. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Real Madrid has submitted all available evidence to UEFA regarding the incidents during the Benfica game, which witnessed "unacceptable episodes of racism", the club said in a statement. "Real Madrid appreciates the unanimous support, backing, and affection that our player Vinicius Jr. has received from all areas of the global football community." Benfica issued a statement on Wednesday backing Prestianni and speaking of a "defamation campaign" against him, while manager Jose Mourinho questioned Vinicius's celebration. It will now interesting to see what happens next with the second leg set to take place next week.

UEFA announced on Wednesday it would investigate "allegations of discriminatory behaviour" as a furore broke out, with teammates rushing to back Vinicius, who has repeatedly suffered racist abuse since joining Real in 2018.

Vinicius Jr racial abuse case: Real Madrid submit 'all available evidence' to UEFA

The Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League play-off leg 1 match turned ugly on Tuesday (Feb 17) at Estadio da Luz after Real's Vinicius Jr. was allegedly abuses with racial taunts by an opposition player. The Real Madrid players, along with Kylian Mbappe, showed solidarity with Vini and left the field as well. The match was halted for 10 minutes just after Vinicius scored the only goal of the match across both sides. Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr.<h2>What did Prestianni say to Vinicus Jr.?</h2>After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him, Mbappe revealed: "The Benfica player wearing no.25 (Prestianni), I won't say his name because he doesn't deserve it.... he puts his shirt over his mouth to say, 'Vini is a monkey' five times. I heard it... this player does not deserve to play in the Champions League."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-play-off-leg-1-results-today-real-madrid-beat-benfica-psg-beat-monaco-dortmund-beat-atalanta-galatasaray-stun-juventus-1771374795215">Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid, PSG and Dortmund win, Galatasaray stun Juventus</a>Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are. But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them," read a part of the post. Have a look at the video of aftermath of incident:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨🛑 Vinicius Jr tells the referee and then José Mourinho that Gianluca Prestianni has racially abused him. Vini said Prestianni racially insulted while covering his mouth with the shirt.<a href="https://twitter.com/JosePadi_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JosePadi_</a> 🎥 <a href="https://t.co/ffhgLgWB1P">pic.twitter.com/ffhgLgWB1P</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2023873593504133199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What is the punishment of racism in UEFA Champions League matches?</h2>As per UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations, Article 14 on racism and other discriminatory conduct, player found guilty of racist behavior - such as insulting the human dignity of a person or group on grounds including race, skin color, ethnic origin, etc.- incurs a suspension lasting at least ten matches. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him. Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: “Racists are, above all, cowards.”

The Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League play-off leg 1 match turned ugly on Tuesday (Feb 17) at Estadio da Luz after Real's Vinicius Jr. was allegedly abuses with racial taunts by an opposition player. The Real Madrid players, along with Kylian Mbappe, showed solidarity with Vini and left the field as well. The match was halted for 10 minutes just after Vinicius scored the only goal of the match across both sides. Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr. What did Prestianni say to Vinicus Jr.? After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him, Mbappe revealed: "The Benfica player wearing no.25 (Prestianni), I won't say his name because he doesn't deserve it.... he puts his shirt over his mouth to say, 'Vini is a monkey' five times. I heard it... this player does not deserve to play in the Champions League." Also Read - Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid, PSG and Dortmund win, Galatasaray stun Juventus Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are. But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them," read a part of the post. Have a look at the video of aftermath of incident:

After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him. Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: “Racists are, above all, cowards.”

Champions League: Real Madrid players leave field after Vinicius Jr. faces alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Prestianni

The controversial European Super League is all set for a permanent halt after Real Madrid, the last remaining club of the original roster, pulled out of the tournament on Wednesday (Feb 11). Real Madrid reached an agreement with UEFA (European football’s apex body) to end the dispute surrounding the league. With Real Madrid pulling out, the proposed league is now set to be dissolved, with top clubs opting for an expanded version of the Champions League.<h2>Real Madrid pull out of European Super League</h2>Spanish giants Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez has relentlessly championed the idea of a Super League, and promoters A22 Sports Management, were seeking $4 billion in damages from European football governing body UEFA after the project collapsed.&nbsp;"UEFA, the European Football Clubs (EFC, the sole, independent body representing football clubs within Europe) and Real Madrid CF reach an agreement for the good of European club football," read a statement published by Real Madrid and UEFA.&nbsp;"This agreement of principles will also serve to resolve their legal disputes related to the European Super League, once such principles are executed and implemented."&nbsp;In the statement Real Madrid and UEFA said their agreement was over "respecting the principle of sporting merit with emphasis on long-term club sustainability" and "the enhancement of fan experience through the use of technology".&nbsp;Last week, Spanish champions Barcelona confirmed their withdrawal from the Super League, which was launched by 12 clubs in 2021 but quickly folded under the weight of immense fan and institutional pressure.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Shortly after the semi-closed Super League project was announced, the six English clubs involved -- Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea -- all withdrew.&nbsp;Four other clubs, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus, followed suit by 2024, leaving only Barca and Real Madrid still involved.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;After a Spanish court ruled that opposition to the Super League from world and European football governing bodies FIFA and UEFA "prevented free competition", Madrid and A22 plotted legal action against UEFA.&nbsp;A source close to the matter told AFP that Wednesday's announcement was "a historic agreement" and the beginning "of a period of peace" which would benefit all parties.&nbsp;In 2022, UEFA decided to expand the Champions League to 36 teams and introduce the league phase, grouping all sides in the same table and increasing the number of matches from six to eight, for the 2024/25 season onwards.

Real Madrid reached an agreement with UEFA (European football’s apex body) to end the dispute surrounding the league. With Real Madrid pulling out, the proposed league is now set to be dissolved, with top clubs opting for an expanded version of the Champions League.

The controversial European Super League is all set for a permanent halt after Real Madrid, the last remaining club of the original roster, pulled out of the tournament on Wednesday (Feb 11). Real Madrid reached an agreement with UEFA (European football’s apex body) to end the dispute surrounding the league. With Real Madrid pulling out, the proposed league is now set to be dissolved, with top clubs opting for an expanded version of the Champions League. Real Madrid pull out of European Super League Spanish giants Madrid, whose president Florentino Perez has relentlessly championed the idea of a Super League, and promoters A22 Sports Management, were seeking $4 billion in damages from European football governing body UEFA after the project collapsed. "UEFA, the European Football Clubs (EFC, the sole, independent body representing football clubs within Europe) and Real Madrid CF reach an agreement for the good of European club football," read a statement published by Real Madrid and UEFA. "This agreement of principles will also serve to resolve their legal disputes related to the European Super League, once such principles are executed and implemented." In the statement Real Madrid and UEFA said their agreement was over "respecting the principle of sporting merit with emphasis on long-term club sustainability" and "the enhancement of fan experience through the use of technology". Last week, Spanish champions Barcelona confirmed their withdrawal from the Super League, which was launched by 12 clubs in 2021 but quickly folded under the weight of immense fan and institutional pressure. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Shortly after the semi-closed Super League project was announced, the six English clubs involved -- Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea -- all withdrew. Four other clubs, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus, followed suit by 2024, leaving only Barca and Real Madrid still involved. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli After a Spanish court ruled that opposition to the Super League from world and European football governing bodies FIFA and UEFA "prevented free competition", Madrid and A22 plotted legal action against UEFA. A source close to the matter told AFP that Wednesday's announcement was "a historic agreement" and the beginning "of a period of peace" which would benefit all parties. In 2022, UEFA decided to expand the Champions League to 36 teams and introduce the league phase, grouping all sides in the same table and increasing the number of matches from six to eight, for the 2024/25 season onwards.

Real Madrid reached an agreement with UEFA (European football’s apex body) to end the dispute surrounding the league. With Real Madrid pulling out, the proposed league is now set to be dissolved, with top clubs opting for an expanded version of the Champions League.

Real Madrid pull out of controversial European Super League, reach agreement with UEFA

Alvaro Carreras and Kylian Mbappe's goals earned Real Madrid a battling 2-0 win at Valencia on Sunday to close the gap to La Liga leaders Barcelona to one point. After the Spanish champions had beaten Mallorca on Saturday, Alvaro Arbeloa's side eked out a tight victory at Mestalla to keep the pressure on their arch-rivals.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lindsey-vonn-s-olympic-comeback-ends-in-heartbreak-after-downhill-crash-airlifted-to-hospital-1770567013247">Lindsey Vonn's Olympic comeback ends in heartbreak after downhill crash</a>Missing suspended forward Vinicius Junior and injured midfielder Jude Bellingham, Los Blancos lacked sparkle but did just enough to claim three points on Spain's east coast.England international Trent Alexander-Arnold made his return after injury as a substitute in the second half of Madrid's victory.Arbeloa's side had the better chances in the first half but failed to create danger on a consistent basis in a gritty encounter.Arda Guler's shot deflected narrowly wide, while Valencia stopper Stole Dimitrievski saved well with his legs from Mbappe's fierce drive.Madrid right-back David Jimenez, from the club's youth academy, came closest to scoring after French superstar Mbappe teed him up, but the Macedonian goalkeeper denied him too.Midway through the second half, Carreras conjured a goal out of nothing to give Madrid the lead.Drifting inside from the left of the box, the defender used his weaker right foot to stroke the ball inside Dimitrievski's near post.Valencia might have levelled but Lucas Beltran's effort on the stretch beat Thibaut Courtois and clipped the post.Arbeloa brought on Alexander-Arnold for his first appearance since early December following a thigh injury, as Madrid looked to close out the game.They eventually secured the three points in stoppage time as Brahim Diaz teed up La Liga's top scorer Mbappe, who finished calmly for his 23rd goal in the competition this season.Valencia's fans, some of whom had waved white handkerchieves during the match in protest at the club's situation, headed for the exits with Los Che 17th, one point above the drop zone.

Missing suspended forward Vinicius Junior and injured midfielder Jude Bellingham, Los Blancos lacked sparkle but did just enough to claim three points on Spain's east coast.

Alvaro Carreras and Kylian Mbappe's goals earned Real Madrid a battling 2-0 win at Valencia on Sunday to close the gap to La Liga leaders Barcelona to one point. After the Spanish champions had beaten Mallorca on Saturday, Alvaro Arbeloa's side eked out a tight victory at Mestalla to keep the pressure on their arch-rivals. Also Read: Lindsey Vonn's Olympic comeback ends in heartbreak after downhill crash Missing suspended forward Vinicius Junior and injured midfielder Jude Bellingham, Los Blancos lacked sparkle but did just enough to claim three points on Spain's east coast. England international Trent Alexander-Arnold made his return after injury as a substitute in the second half of Madrid's victory. Arbeloa's side had the better chances in the first half but failed to create danger on a consistent basis in a gritty encounter. Arda Guler's shot deflected narrowly wide, while Valencia stopper Stole Dimitrievski saved well with his legs from Mbappe's fierce drive. Madrid right-back David Jimenez, from the club's youth academy, came closest to scoring after French superstar Mbappe teed him up, but the Macedonian goalkeeper denied him too. Midway through the second half, Carreras conjured a goal out of nothing to give Madrid the lead. Drifting inside from the left of the box, the defender used his weaker right foot to stroke the ball inside Dimitrievski's near post. Valencia might have levelled but Lucas Beltran's effort on the stretch beat Thibaut Courtois and clipped the post. Arbeloa brought on Alexander-Arnold for his first appearance since early December following a thigh injury, as Madrid looked to close out the game. They eventually secured the three points in stoppage time as Brahim Diaz teed up La Liga's top scorer Mbappe, who finished calmly for his 23rd goal in the competition this season. Valencia's fans, some of whom had waved white handkerchieves during the match in protest at the club's situation, headed for the exits with Los Che 17th, one point above the drop zone.

Missing suspended forward Vinicius Junior and injured midfielder Jude Bellingham, Los Blancos lacked sparkle but did just enough to claim three points on Spain's east coast.

La Liga: Real Madrid beat Valencia to stay within a point of Barca

From Real Madrid to Bayern Munich here is a list of five richest football clubs in the world. The list also features the likes of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool. The data used is analysed by Deloitte Football Money League. 

From Real Madrid to Bayern Munich here is a list of five richest football clubs in the world. The list also features the likes of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool. The data used is analysed by Deloitte Football Money League.&nbsp;

From Real Madrid to Bayern Munich, 5 richest football clubs in the world

Real Madrid fell to a shock 3-2 defeat in the Copa del Rey last 16 on Wednesday as Alvaro Arbeloa's debut as coach ended in humiliation by second-tier opposition.&nbsp;Appointed on Monday to replace Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa and his side were ousted by Jefte Betancor's stoppage-time winner at the Carlos Belmonte stadium.&nbsp;Without French superstar Kylian Mbappe and various other key players, Arbeloa's side struggled against a side currently 17th in Spain's second division.&nbsp;Albacete took the lead through Javi Villar but Franco Mastantuono equalised just before half-time.&nbsp;Jefte put the hosts back ahead after 82 minutes and then scored the winner after Gonzalo Garcia's 91st-minute goal looked to have forced extra time for the 15-time European champions.&nbsp;"Here at this club a draw is already bad -- it's a tragedy. Imagine a defeat like this, it's painful," Arbeloa told reporters.&nbsp;"I'm sure all our fans feel the same way. Even more so when it happens against a team from a lower division, although we already know here how tough any opponent can be.&nbsp;"If anyone is responsible and to blame for this outcome, it's clearly me, the one who made the decisions regarding the line-up, how we wanted to play, the substitutions.&nbsp;"I can only thank the players for the way they welcomed me, for the effort they put in today."&nbsp;After Madrid lost the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday against rivals Barcelona, president Florentino Perez replaced Alonso with reserve team coach Arbeloa.&nbsp;The Spaniard selected two players currently playing in the reserves he led until Monday -- holding midfielder Jorge Cestero and right-back David Jimenez.&nbsp;As well as Mbappe he left out players including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Jude Bellingham, to rest ahead of the return to La Liga action on Saturday against Levante."I'd do the same again, I brought a team capable of winning," said Arbeloa.&nbsp;The first half was mostly played under heavy gloom, not just Madrid's mood but an intense fog which set in a few minutes into the game.&nbsp;Vinicius Junior smashed high and wide from long range as neither side produced any clear chances until shortly before half-time when the hosts took a shock lead.&nbsp;Villar escaped Mastantuono's attentions at a corner and nodded Albacete in front after 42 minutes.&nbsp;Arbeloa's side levelled before the break through, also capitalising on a corner, with Mastantuono turning home from close range.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Jefte's double</h2>Albacete frustrated Madrid after the break and then burst into life in attack to take the lead once more.&nbsp;Andriy Lunin pushed away an effort from Riki but shortly afterwards Jefte put Alberto Gonzalez's side ahead.&nbsp;Gonzalo Garcia's clearance fell to the striker in the box and he fired down into the ground with ball bouncing up and flashing past Lunin.&nbsp;Madrid's young forward made amends by pulling his team level in stoppage time with a well-placed header.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;However there was a sting in the tale as Jefte produced a sensational lofted finish past Lunin to snatch a famous late victory for Albacete, their first ever against Real Madrid.&nbsp;"I'm not afraid of failure, I can understand that someone would want to call this defeat that," added Arbeloa.&nbsp;"Failure is on the path to success, for me they are not in opposite directions."&nbsp;Madrid captain Dani Carvajal, who came on as a substitute and could not stop Jefte's winner, said the players would work hard to revert the club's slump.&nbsp;"We're not at our best moment, we have to work hard, we all have to give a lot more, it's a reality," Carvajal told reporters.&nbsp;"We ask for forgiveness for the fans. We were not up to the level of this club, me first of all, and we will give our lives in the next games and months (to turn it around)."&nbsp;Elsewhere Real Betis beat Elche 2-1 and Alaves defeated Rayo Vallecano 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals.&nbsp;Holders Barcelona visit second division leaders Racing Santander on Thursday.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Appointed on Monday to replace Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa and his side were ousted by Jefte Betancor's stoppage-time winner at the Carlos Belmonte stadium.

Real Madrid fell to a shock 3-2 defeat in the Copa del Rey last 16 on Wednesday as Alvaro Arbeloa's debut as coach ended in humiliation by second-tier opposition. Appointed on Monday to replace Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa and his side were ousted by Jefte Betancor's stoppage-time winner at the Carlos Belmonte stadium. Without French superstar Kylian Mbappe and various other key players, Arbeloa's side struggled against a side currently 17th in Spain's second division. Albacete took the lead through Javi Villar but Franco Mastantuono equalised just before half-time. Jefte put the hosts back ahead after 82 minutes and then scored the winner after Gonzalo Garcia's 91st-minute goal looked to have forced extra time for the 15-time European champions. "Here at this club a draw is already bad -- it's a tragedy. Imagine a defeat like this, it's painful," Arbeloa told reporters. "I'm sure all our fans feel the same way. Even more so when it happens against a team from a lower division, although we already know here how tough any opponent can be. "If anyone is responsible and to blame for this outcome, it's clearly me, the one who made the decisions regarding the line-up, how we wanted to play, the substitutions. "I can only thank the players for the way they welcomed me, for the effort they put in today." After Madrid lost the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday against rivals Barcelona, president Florentino Perez replaced Alonso with reserve team coach Arbeloa. The Spaniard selected two players currently playing in the reserves he led until Monday -- holding midfielder Jorge Cestero and right-back David Jimenez. As well as Mbappe he left out players including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Jude Bellingham, to rest ahead of the return to La Liga action on Saturday against Levante. "I'd do the same again, I brought a team capable of winning," said Arbeloa. The first half was mostly played under heavy gloom, not just Madrid's mood but an intense fog which set in a few minutes into the game. Vinicius Junior smashed high and wide from long range as neither side produced any clear chances until shortly before half-time when the hosts took a shock lead. Villar escaped Mastantuono's attentions at a corner and nodded Albacete in front after 42 minutes. Arbeloa's side levelled before the break through, also capitalising on a corner, with Mastantuono turning home from close range. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Jefte's double Albacete frustrated Madrid after the break and then burst into life in attack to take the lead once more. Andriy Lunin pushed away an effort from Riki but shortly afterwards Jefte put Alberto Gonzalez's side ahead. Gonzalo Garcia's clearance fell to the striker in the box and he fired down into the ground with ball bouncing up and flashing past Lunin. Madrid's young forward made amends by pulling his team level in stoppage time with a well-placed header. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes However there was a sting in the tale as Jefte produced a sensational lofted finish past Lunin to snatch a famous late victory for Albacete, their first ever against Real Madrid. "I'm not afraid of failure, I can understand that someone would want to call this defeat that," added Arbeloa. "Failure is on the path to success, for me they are not in opposite directions." Madrid captain Dani Carvajal, who came on as a substitute and could not stop Jefte's winner, said the players would work hard to revert the club's slump. "We're not at our best moment, we have to work hard, we all have to give a lot more, it's a reality," Carvajal told reporters. "We ask for forgiveness for the fans. We were not up to the level of this club, me first of all, and we will give our lives in the next games and months (to turn it around)." Elsewhere Real Betis beat Elche 2-1 and Alaves defeated Rayo Vallecano 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals. Holders Barcelona visit second division leaders Racing Santander on Thursday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Appointed on Monday to replace Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa and his side were ousted by Jefte Betancor's stoppage-time winner at the Carlos Belmonte stadium.

Real Madrid crash out of Copa del Rey at Albacete on Arbeloa debut

Real Madrid have ended Xabi Alonso’s short stint as head coach after their painful Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona, moving swiftly to appoint former club defender Alvaro Arbeloa as his replacement. The decision, confirmed on Monday, came just eight months after Alonso took charge, highlighting the club’s zero-tolerance approach toward inconsistency and underwhelming results.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite occasional flashes of promise, Madrid struggled to establish rhythm under the Basque coach, with key defeats and uneven performances across competitions piling pressure on his tenure. The 3-2 loss to Hansi Flick’s Barcelona in Saudi Arabia proved decisive, forcing the club into immediate action. Arbeloa, a Madrid product through and through, now steps in to stabilise the dressing room.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hasaranga-shines-with-four-for-as-sri-lanka-edge-out-pakistan-in-rain-hit-3rd-t20i-level-series-1768190783943">Hasaranga shines with four-for as Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan in rain-hit 3rd T20I, level series</a><h2>Mutual decision brings an early end to Alonso’s tenure</h2>Real Madrid said Monday that coach Xabi Alonso has left the Spanish giants by mutual consent, to be replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa. A day after the team lost the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, the club parted ways with the Basque coach eight months after his arrival and immediately appointed former Madrid player Arbeloa, who was coaching the reserve side.&nbsp;"Real Madrid announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his tenure as first-team coach to an end," said the Los Blancos in a statement.In a separate statement Madrid then announced Arbeloa would take Alonso's place, without specifying the length of the 42-year-old's contract.&nbsp;"Arbeloa has been the coach of Castilla since June 2025 and has developed his entire coaching career in Real Madrid's academy since 2020," said Los Blancos. Arbeloa's first match at the helm is a Copa del Rey last-16 visit to face second-tier Albacete on Wednesday.&nbsp;The Spaniard played 238 times for Madrid between 2009-2016, winning two Champions League titles and La Liga once, among other silverware. Arbeloa also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, as well as the European Championship in 2008 and 2012, playing alongside Alonso for club and country.<h2>Inconsistency, pressure, and the Super Cup defeat that sealed fate</h2>Alonso joined in June, replacing veteran Carlo Ancelotti, but Madrid struggled to find consistency under the Basque coach and are second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona. Los Blancos were outplayed in a 3-2 defeat in Saudi Arabia on Sunday by Hansi Flick's side, the 44-year-old's last at the helm.&nbsp;Alonso was close to the sack towards the end of 2025 but a run of five consecutive wins kept him in his position, until the Super Cup defeat. Alonso had signed a three-season deal after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, until June 2028.&nbsp;The team were thrashed 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in July in the Club World Cup semi-finals, which was an early setback for the coach.&nbsp;Despite a Clasico win over Barcelona in October, it appeared president Florentino Perez had not fully warmed to Alonso, who had intended to bring a modern coaching approach to the team. The team struggled through a run of poor form amid an injury crisis, with Spanish media reporting some players had fallen out with him and that Alonso would be ousted if they failed to beat Manchester City in the Champions League in December.&nbsp;Madrid lost but the performance was solid enough that Alonso was given more time to try and save his job. However, the defeat by Barca in Jeddah was the final straw for Madrid, who agreed a deal with Alonso for him to depart.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid part ways with Xabi Alonso after Super Cup defeat to Barcelona and appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as new coach. The former defender takes charge ahead of the Copa del Rey clash as Madrid chase stability.


Real Madrid have ended Xabi Alonso’s short stint as head coach after their painful Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona, moving swiftly to appoint former club defender Alvaro Arbeloa as his replacement. The decision, confirmed on Monday, came just eight months after Alonso took charge, highlighting the club’s zero-tolerance approach toward inconsistency and underwhelming results. Despite occasional flashes of promise, Madrid struggled to establish rhythm under the Basque coach, with key defeats and uneven performances across competitions piling pressure on his tenure. The 3-2 loss to Hansi Flick’s Barcelona in Saudi Arabia proved decisive, forcing the club into immediate action. Arbeloa, a Madrid product through and through, now steps in to stabilise the dressing room. Also read | Hasaranga shines with four-for as Sri Lanka edge out Pakistan in rain-hit 3rd T20I, level series Mutual decision brings an early end to Alonso’s tenure Real Madrid said Monday that coach Xabi Alonso has left the Spanish giants by mutual consent, to be replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa. A day after the team lost the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, the club parted ways with the Basque coach eight months after his arrival and immediately appointed former Madrid player Arbeloa, who was coaching the reserve side. "Real Madrid announces that, by mutual agreement between the club and Xabi Alonso, it has been decided to bring his tenure as first-team coach to an end," said the Los Blancos in a statement. In a separate statement Madrid then announced Arbeloa would take Alonso's place, without specifying the length of the 42-year-old's contract. "Arbeloa has been the coach of Castilla since June 2025 and has developed his entire coaching career in Real Madrid's academy since 2020," said Los Blancos. Arbeloa's first match at the helm is a Copa del Rey last-16 visit to face second-tier Albacete on Wednesday. The Spaniard played 238 times for Madrid between 2009-2016, winning two Champions League titles and La Liga once, among other silverware. Arbeloa also lifted the World Cup with Spain in 2010, as well as the European Championship in 2008 and 2012, playing alongside Alonso for club and country. Inconsistency, pressure, and the Super Cup defeat that sealed fate Alonso joined in June, replacing veteran Carlo Ancelotti, but Madrid struggled to find consistency under the Basque coach and are second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona. Los Blancos were outplayed in a 3-2 defeat in Saudi Arabia on Sunday by Hansi Flick's side, the 44-year-old's last at the helm. Alonso was close to the sack towards the end of 2025 but a run of five consecutive wins kept him in his position, until the Super Cup defeat. Alonso had signed a three-season deal after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, until June 2028. The team were thrashed 4-0 by Paris Saint-Germain in July in the Club World Cup semi-finals, which was an early setback for the coach. Despite a Clasico win over Barcelona in October, it appeared president Florentino Perez had not fully warmed to Alonso, who had intended to bring a modern coaching approach to the team. The team struggled through a run of poor form amid an injury crisis, with Spanish media reporting some players had fallen out with him and that Alonso would be ousted if they failed to beat Manchester City in the Champions League in December. Madrid lost but the performance was solid enough that Alonso was given more time to try and save his job. However, the defeat by Barca in Jeddah was the final straw for Madrid, who agreed a deal with Alonso for him to depart. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Real Madrid part ways with Xabi Alonso after Super Cup defeat to Barcelona and appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as new coach. The former defender takes charge ahead of the Copa del Rey clash as Madrid chase stability.

Real Madrid part ways with Xabi Alonso after Super Cup loss, appoint Arbeloa as new coach

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