Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season.

“It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos.

“I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.”

Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club.

Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down.

Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half.

It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on.

Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time.

Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught.

“I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns.

“I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title.

Real Madrid endured their toughest test at Granada on Monday since La Liga restarted but showed real determination to grind out a 2-1 win and record their ninth consecutive victory as they moved within touching distance of reclaiming the title. Early goals from Ferland Mendy and Karim Benzema were enough to restore a four-point lead over Barcelona and Real will clinch their first league title since 2017 with a win over Villarreal on Thursday or at Leganes on the final day of the season. “It’s true that we’re one step closer but we have to keep going, there are still more points to play for and we’re going to try and win every game left as that was always our objective,” said captain Sergio Ramos. “I really hope we can celebrate winning this league title, our results speak for themselves.” Zinedine Zidane’s Real side got off to a flying start when French defender Mendy skipped into the box practically unopposed and rifled the ball into the net from the tightest of angles in the 10th minute, scoring his first goal for the club. Real’s top scorer Benzema doubled the advantage with a cool finish six minutes later to net his 19th goal of the season but 10th placed Granada, who still had slim hopes of European qualification, refused to lie down. Real’s in-form goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made the first of two fine saves by tipping away a shot from defender Domingos Duarte before the break and Venezuelan forward Darwin Machis pulled one back early in the second half. It was the first goal Real had conceded in six matches but Granada threatened to equalise as Machis missed the target on the volley while Courtois showed superb reflexes to deny forward Antonin late on. Ramos was then the hero as he cleared a Ramon Azeez shot off the line seconds later and the leaders had to withstand a goalmouth scramble in added time. Zidane celebrated wildly when the full-time whistle came and praised his side for coping with Granada’s late onslaught. “I let out a shout because I was happy and because in football you have to suffer,” said the Frenchman, who is closing in on his second La Liga title in under four years as Real coach along with three Champions League crowns. “I shouted out loud because the three points were very important and I wanted to tell my players that they had played a superb game. To win this league you have to suffer a little bit and we dug in as a team. You have to be proud of this team.”

Real Madrid dig deep to beat Granada and move closer to title

Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi is set to join Inter Milan after spending nearly two years on loan at Borussia Dortmund, as per newspapers AS and Marca said on Tuesday. The Moroccon right-back is set to join the Italian side after $56.05 million transfer deal.&nbsp;

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Achraf Hakimi was photographed in Milan on Tuesday during his medical test for the club, he bid farewell to Dortmund in a letter posted on Instagram.&nbsp;

According to a report by AS, Hakimi is set to sign a five-year contract with Inter Milan.&nbsp;

Hakimi is a product of the Real Madrid academy. He made 16 appearances in the 2017-18 season. His career in the club was overshadowed by Dani Carvajal's performance.&nbsp;

Achraf Hakimi rose during his tenure in Borussia Dortmund. He scored nine goals and 10 assists in 45 appearances for the club this season.&nbsp;

"The moment has come to bring a great period of my life to a close," Hakimi wrote on Instagram.

"After two marvellous years, I have to leave this club which has given me so many happy moments."

Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi is set to join Inter Milan after spending nearly two years on loan at Borussia Dortmund, as per newspapers AS and Marca said on Tuesday.

Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi is set to join Inter Milan after spending nearly two years on loan at Borussia Dortmund, as per newspapers AS and Marca said on Tuesday. The Moroccon right-back is set to join the Italian side after $56.05 million transfer deal. Also read: Saudi Arabia's takeover of Newcastle is complicated says Premier League chief Achraf Hakimi was photographed in Milan on Tuesday during his medical test for the club, he bid farewell to Dortmund in a letter posted on Instagram. According to a report by AS, Hakimi is set to sign a five-year contract with Inter Milan. Hakimi is a product of the Real Madrid academy. He made 16 appearances in the 2017-18 season. His career in the club was overshadowed by Dani Carvajal's performance. Achraf Hakimi rose during his tenure in Borussia Dortmund. He scored nine goals and 10 assists in 45 appearances for the club this season. "The moment has come to bring a great period of my life to a close," Hakimi wrote on Instagram. "After two marvellous years, I have to leave this club which has given me so many happy moments."

Real Madrid's Achraf Hakimi joins Inter Milan on a 50 million euro deal

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.&nbsp;

Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

"We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error.

"Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic."

Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window.&nbsp;

"It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona.

Barcelona has regained the top spot in the La Liga table after Ivan Rakitic's crucial goal helped the Catalonia giants edge past Athletic Bilbao. Messi failed to score his 700th career goal for country and club but he did provided 250th career assist to ensure victory to Barcelona. Barcelona's win puts the pressure back to Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid. If they beat Real Mallorca on Wednesday, they return to the top of La Liga. "We knew it was going to be complicated," Setien said. "Also because of the situation, there is some anxiety because there's less and less margin for error. "Sometimes we didn't play with that composure and that showed in the first half when were more inaccurate than usual. We gave some belief and confidence to Athletic." Dependence on Messi was high and his performance determined the course of the match. Rakitic is among the few players who are likely to leave the club during the summer transfer window. "It's a difficult period but we have to stick together," said Rakitic. "It was an important goal, it was a tough game, it was hard for us to open the game up."

La Liga: Lionel Messi's 250th assist helps Barcelona edge past Athletic Bilbao

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday.

Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head.&nbsp;

"Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards.&nbsp;

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Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;on March 1.

Asked about Pique's analysis,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points."

A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more.

Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.&nbsp;

They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over.&nbsp;

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The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be.&nbsp;

Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome.&nbsp;

Barcelona&nbsp;though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend.

Gerard Pique said La Liga's title race is Real Madrid's to lose after Barcelona were held to a goalless draw against Sevilla on Friday. Barca's first slip-up since returning from the three-month hiatus hands Madrid the chance to regain top spot this weekend. After their emphatic 3-0 win over Valencia on Thursday, Zinedine Zidane's side will move level on points with the Catalans if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday and above them due to their superior record head-to-head. "Seeing what we've done in the last two rounds, it's going to be very difficult to win this league," said a despondent Pique afterwards. Also read: Benzema and Asensio volleys fire Madrid to Valencia victory Sevilla, in third, and Valencia, in eighth, always looked capable of shifting the dynamic at the top of the table, with Madrid capitalising to climb back to the summit for the first time since they beat Barcelona on March 1. Asked about Pique's analysis, Barcelona coach Quique Setien said: "I think it comes from frustration. I am optimistic. I think it will be tough for anyone to take maximum points." A valuable point for Sevilla, meanwhile, gives them a five-point cushion over Getafe in fifth, albeit having played a game more. Barca could have few complaints at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. They never really troubled Sevilla for any prolonged period and the closest Lionel Messi came to scoring the 700th goal of his career were a pair of free-kicks tipped over. Also read: Neymar ordered to pay 6.7 million euros to Barcelona The sight of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen jogging up for a late corner demonstrated how big a blow they considered dropping points to be. Yet Real Sociedad are still in the hunt for Champions League qualification and will offer Madrid no guarantees on Sunday while games against Getafe, Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal mean there are still plenty of hurdles for Zidane's team to overcome. Barcelona though would appear to have the tougher run-in, with Athletic Bilbao, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal and local rivals Espanyol coming up.

Gerard Pique pessimistic over Barcelona title bid after Sevilla draw

Karim Benzema's volley could well be La Liga's goal of the season and Marco Asensio's was his first touch in over a year as&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;stormed past Valencia 3-0 on Thursday.&nbsp;

Two brilliant strikes helped&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;to a convincing win at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, where Benzema continued his excellent form with a brace after putting his team in front thanks to another combination with Eden Hazard.&nbsp;

Valencia had been the better side in the first half when Rodrigo Moreno hit the post and then had a goal controversially ruled out after referee Jose Sanchez consulted VAR.&nbsp;

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Yet&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;found a different gear after the break to carve out an impressive victory that reduces their deficit to two points behind Barcelona, who play away at Sevilla on Friday.&nbsp;

Benzema's stunning second goal that saw him take the ball out of the air with one foot and then volley home with the other was a breathtaking moment that came shortly after a dramatic one for Asensio too.&nbsp;

Asensio has not played since June 10 last year after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury but the 24-year-old announced his return in style, volleying in with his first touch, 31 seconds after coming on.&nbsp;

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"It's been many months of hard work and I'm very happy to play again and to score," he said afterwards.&nbsp;

"I feel a lot of emotion, satisfaction. A lot of work has gone into this."&nbsp;

"It means a lot to him," said coach Zinedine Zidane. "We're just happy to see him on the pitch again."

But with nine games to go in the title race, Benzema appears key, particularly as his partnership with the resurgent Hazard continues to flourish.

After a strong start,&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;faded and Valencia came on strong. They hit the post when Maxi Rodriguez's pass sent Rodrigo clear, his shot was diverted by the fingertips of Thibaut Courtois.

Valencia then thought they had scored as Carlos Soler's pass to the back post beat both Maxi and his marker Raphael Varane to find Rodrigo, who tapped in.&nbsp;

But VAR persuaded Sanchez that Maxi's heel was offside and also that the ball had feathered his foot on its way through. Rodrigo opened the palms of his hands in disbelief.&nbsp;

Benzema tried to nod down for Hazard when he would have been better going for goal but&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;had lost their purpose and were grateful for half-time.

They were better in the second half, with more control. Kevin Gameiro came on for Valencia and his first touch was a costly one, a loose pass to Hazard setting&nbsp;Madrid&nbsp;away.&nbsp;

Hazard played a one-two with Luka Modric and pushed the ball across for Benzema to finish.

Asensio came on in the 74th minute after a hug and a smile with Zidane. His first touch was a glorious one as Ferland Mendy beat Daniel Wass to the line and chipped a pass back to his teammate, who punched a superb volley into the net with his left foot.&nbsp;

An incredible moment could only be surpassed by something special, which Benzema delivered. Asensio crossed and Benzema lifted the ball in the air over Hugo Gillamon with his right foot and then with his left, banged it into the top corner.&nbsp;

Valencia were dead and buried and Lee Kang-In was sent off after three frustrated hacks on Sergio Ramos. He departed with one minute left.

Karim Benzema's volley could well be La Liga's goal of the season and Marco Asensio's was his first touch in over a year as Real Madrid stormed past Valencia 3-0 on Thursday.

Karim Benzema's volley could well be La Liga's goal of the season and Marco Asensio's was his first touch in over a year as Real Madrid stormed past Valencia 3-0 on Thursday. Two brilliant strikes helped Madrid to a convincing win at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, where Benzema continued his excellent form with a brace after putting his team in front thanks to another combination with Eden Hazard. Valencia had been the better side in the first half when Rodrigo Moreno hit the post and then had a goal controversially ruled out after referee Jose Sanchez consulted VAR. Also read: Barcelona and Real Madrid renew close-run title race Yet Madrid found a different gear after the break to carve out an impressive victory that reduces their deficit to two points behind Barcelona, who play away at Sevilla on Friday. Benzema's stunning second goal that saw him take the ball out of the air with one foot and then volley home with the other was a breathtaking moment that came shortly after a dramatic one for Asensio too. Asensio has not played since June 10 last year after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury but the 24-year-old announced his return in style, volleying in with his first touch, 31 seconds after coming on. Also read: La Liga: Real Madrid resume its title bid after 3-1 win over Eibar "It's been many months of hard work and I'm very happy to play again and to score," he said afterwards. "I feel a lot of emotion, satisfaction. A lot of work has gone into this." "It means a lot to him," said coach Zinedine Zidane. "We're just happy to see him on the pitch again." But with nine games to go in the title race, Benzema appears key, particularly as his partnership with the resurgent Hazard continues to flourish. After a strong start, Madrid faded and Valencia came on strong. They hit the post when Maxi Rodriguez's pass sent Rodrigo clear, his shot was diverted by the fingertips of Thibaut Courtois. Valencia then thought they had scored as Carlos Soler's pass to the back post beat both Maxi and his marker Raphael Varane to find Rodrigo, who tapped in. But VAR persuaded Sanchez that Maxi's heel was offside and also that the ball had feathered his foot on its way through. Rodrigo opened the palms of his hands in disbelief. Benzema tried to nod down for Hazard when he would have been better going for goal but Madrid had lost their purpose and were grateful for half-time. They were better in the second half, with more control. Kevin Gameiro came on for Valencia and his first touch was a costly one, a loose pass to Hazard setting Madrid away. Hazard played a one-two with Luka Modric and pushed the ball across for Benzema to finish. Asensio came on in the 74th minute after a hug and a smile with Zidane. His first touch was a glorious one as Ferland Mendy beat Daniel Wass to the line and chipped a pass back to his teammate, who punched a superb volley into the net with his left foot. An incredible moment could only be surpassed by something special, which Benzema delivered. Asensio crossed and Benzema lifted the ball in the air over Hugo Gillamon with his right foot and then with his left, banged it into the top corner. Valencia were dead and buried and Lee Kang-In was sent off after three frustrated hacks on Sergio Ramos. He departed with one minute left.

Benzema and Asensio volleys fire Madrid to Valencia victory

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

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Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March.&nbsp;

Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands.

"We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said.&nbsp;

"He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him."

Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen.&nbsp;

One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.&nbsp;

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday.

Real Madrid has resumed their La Liga title race with a 3-1 win over Eibar. Real Madrid's victory has reduced the gap behind league leaders Barcelona back to two points after the Catalans thrashed Real Mallorca 4-0 on Saturday. Also read: Real Madrid star Marcelo takes the knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign Toni Kroos opened for the Spanish Giants on the fourth minute and within 37 minutes they were up by three goals after Sergio Ramos and Marcelo scored. Eden Hazard was making his first start since February after he injured his right ankle in November and February. He underwent surgery in March. Hazard and Ramos were taken off before the start of the second half and were seen with ice packs strapped to them while sitting in the stands. "We knew Eden would lack a bit of rhythm playing the whole game," coach Zinedine Zidane said. "He played well for an hour, he took a knock which was a scare but at half-time, he said he was fine. He is happy with what he has done and we are happy with him." Eibar tried to make a comeback after Pedro Bigas scored in the second half but it could not happen. One of the biggest moments of the games was when Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.

La Liga: Real Madrid resume its title bid after 3-1 win over Eibar

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Just before the season was postponed on March 10, former Real great Jorge Valdano had likened the two teams’ inconsistent form to a race between two limping men, but both sides are set to be refreshed and stronger after the long break.

Barca are boosted by the return of Luis Suarez from a knee injury that looked set to rule him out for the season, and his aggression and power should help them ease their problems in breaking down sides.

Real will again enjoy the services of Eden Hazard after he was sidelined with a fractured ankle in February. Also back is Spain forward Marcos Asensio, who should ease the burden on Karim Benzema, their runaway leading scorer with 14 strikes.

Barca, targeting a third consecutive Spanish title, led Real by two points when the season was postponed.

The break has also given their ageing squad some much-needed rest, while the extra time on the training ground should help them further adapt to the ideas of coach Quique Setien, who succeeded Ernesto Valverde in January.

With no fans allowed into venues and Real playing their home games at the 6,000-capacity Alfredo Di Stefano stadium while the Santiago Bernabeu is being refurbished, it will be a title race unlike any other.

“We will miss that boost and support you get from the crowd, who have a huge influence,” said Setien.

Barca have a slightly more comfortable run-in in their remaining 11 fixtures in the space of five weeks, with home games against Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid plus trips to Sevilla and Villarreal looking like their toughest games.

Real, who beat Barca in March only to blow their lead at the top by losing to Real Betis, have five potentially tricky fixtures: Valencia, Getafe and Villarreal at home, plus trips to Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao.

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Barcelona and Real Madrid resume one of the tightest title races in recent memory when La Liga kicks back into action this week in empty stadiums, after a three-month pause due to the coronavirus pandemic. Just before the season was postponed on March 10, former Real great Jorge Valdano had likened the two teams’ inconsistent form to a race between two limping men, but both sides are set to be refreshed and stronger after the long break. Barca are boosted by the return of Luis Suarez from a knee injury that looked set to rule him out for the season, and his aggression and power should help them ease their problems in breaking down sides. Real will again enjoy the services of Eden Hazard after he was sidelined with a fractured ankle in February. Also back is Spain forward Marcos Asensio, who should ease the burden on Karim Benzema, their runaway leading scorer with 14 strikes. Barca, targeting a third consecutive Spanish title, led Real by two points when the season was postponed. The break has also given their ageing squad some much-needed rest, while the extra time on the training ground should help them further adapt to the ideas of coach Quique Setien, who succeeded Ernesto Valverde in January. With no fans allowed into venues and Real playing their home games at the 6,000-capacity Alfredo Di Stefano stadium while the Santiago Bernabeu is being refurbished, it will be a title race unlike any other. “We will miss that boost and support you get from the crowd, who have a huge influence,” said Setien. Barca have a slightly more comfortable run-in in their remaining 11 fixtures in the space of five weeks, with home games against Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid plus trips to Sevilla and Villarreal looking like their toughest games. Real, who beat Barca in March only to blow their lead at the top by losing to Real Betis, have five potentially tricky fixtures: Valencia, Getafe and Villarreal at home, plus trips to Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao.

Barcelona and Real Madrid renew close-run title race

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain.&nbsp;

The three clubs will play each other in a round-robin group, with Inter against Bayern held in Milan, Real facing Inter in Madrid and Bayern hosting Real in Munich.&nbsp;

Proceeds from the fixtures will be donated to medical facilities in Italy and Spain, two of the world's worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

The aim is "to send out a message of solidarity and fraternity to the people of Europe", said a statement from Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Dates for the tournament have not been decided. The timing will "depend on the match calendar and when football can be played in front of fans again", the clubs said.&nbsp;

Bayern will invite 5,000 nurses, carers and doctors to the Allianz Arena for their match against Real Madrid.&nbsp;

"Nurses, carers and doctors in particular are doing an outstanding job for society at the moment," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "We, the three clubs, want to show these heroes our appreciation, respect and gratitude."&nbsp;

"The great commitment of all healthcare workers has been essential to allow us to look to the future," said Inter president Steven Zhang.&nbsp;

"With this initiative we want to thank them and celebrate their work and at the same time send a message of unity and solidarity between nations."&nbsp;

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain.

Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan will stage a new competition called the 'European Solidarity Cup' in 2021 to raise money for medical facilities in Italy and Spain. The three clubs will play each other in a round-robin group, with Inter against Bayern held in Milan, Real facing Inter in Madrid and Bayern hosting Real in Munich. Proceeds from the fixtures will be donated to medical facilities in Italy and Spain, two of the world's worst-hit countries by the coronavirus pandemic. The aim is "to send out a message of solidarity and fraternity to the people of Europe", said a statement from Real Madrid. Dates for the tournament have not been decided. The timing will "depend on the match calendar and when football can be played in front of fans again", the clubs said. Bayern will invite 5,000 nurses, carers and doctors to the Allianz Arena for their match against Real Madrid. "Nurses, carers and doctors in particular are doing an outstanding job for society at the moment," said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "We, the three clubs, want to show these heroes our appreciation, respect and gratitude." "The great commitment of all healthcare workers has been essential to allow us to look to the future," said Inter president Steven Zhang. "With this initiative we want to thank them and celebrate their work and at the same time send a message of unity and solidarity between nations."

Real Madrid, Bayern and Inter Milan to launch European Solidarity Cup

Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic apologised on Thursday after travelling to Serbia and breaking self-isolation rules put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus.&nbsp;

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Jovic claims he was given permission to fly to his home country of Serbia by Real Madrid, who went into quarantine last week after one of the club's&nbsp;basketball&nbsp;players tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-masked-virat-kohli-refuses-selfie-request-at-airport-over-covid-19-concern-287640" hreflang="en">WATCH: 'Masked' Virat Kohli refuses selfie request at airport over COVID-19 concern</a>

But after arriving in Belgrade, according to Spanish newspaper AS, the 22-year-old was "seen on the streets of the capital, celebrating the birthday of his girlfriend".&nbsp;

The local press in Belgrade have reported that Jovic was visited by police, although it is not clear whether charges will be brought against him.&nbsp;

"First of all,&nbsp;I am very sorry that I am the main topic (of debate) these days, and I am sorry that people are constantly writing about me and not about the main protagonists in the fight against this crisis,&nbsp;who are the doctors and all those who work in healthcare," Jovic wrote on social media.&nbsp;

"In Madrid, my Covid-19 test was negative. So I decided to travel to Serbia, to help and support our people, in addition to being close to my family,&nbsp;with the permission of my club.&nbsp;

"When I arrived in Serbia, they gave me the test and it came out negative.&nbsp;I am very sorry that some people have not done their job professionally and have not given me specific instructions on how I should behave during my isolation.&nbsp;

"In Spain it is allowed to go to buy food or buy products in pharmacies,&nbsp;which does not happen here (in Serbia).&nbsp;I apologise to everyone&nbsp;if in any way I have hurt or put someone in danger.&nbsp;I hope that together we can overcome all this."

Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic apologised on Thursday after travelling to Serbia and breaking self-isolation rules put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus.

Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic apologised on Thursday after travelling to Serbia and breaking self-isolation rules put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus. Also read: Dybala, Maldini reveal that they test positive for COVID-19, another English club falls victim Jovic claims he was given permission to fly to his home country of Serbia by Real Madrid, who went into quarantine last week after one of the club's basketball players tested positive for the virus. Also read: WATCH: 'Masked' Virat Kohli refuses selfie request at airport over COVID-19 concern But after arriving in Belgrade, according to Spanish newspaper AS, the 22-year-old was "seen on the streets of the capital, celebrating the birthday of his girlfriend". The local press in Belgrade have reported that Jovic was visited by police, although it is not clear whether charges will be brought against him. "First of all, I am very sorry that I am the main topic (of debate) these days, and I am sorry that people are constantly writing about me and not about the main protagonists in the fight against this crisis, who are the doctors and all those who work in healthcare," Jovic wrote on social media. "In Madrid, my Covid-19 test was negative. So I decided to travel to Serbia, to help and support our people, in addition to being close to my family, with the permission of my club. "When I arrived in Serbia, they gave me the test and it came out negative. I am very sorry that some people have not done their job professionally and have not given me specific instructions on how I should behave during my isolation. "In Spain it is allowed to go to buy food or buy products in pharmacies, which does not happen here (in Serbia). I apologise to everyone if in any way I have hurt or put someone in danger. I hope that together we can overcome all this."

Jovic apologises for breaking self-isolation rules in Serbia

Real Madrid's ex-president Lorenzo Sanz who led the Spanish club to their Champions League in the year 1998 ending their 32-year wait has died at the age of 76 died due to coronavirus.&nbsp;

Sanz was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday after he was down with fever for eight days where he was tested positive for coronavirus. He suffered kidney failure because of the infection and died on Saturday night.&nbsp;

Death of Sanz made him the first high-profile death in Spain. Both his sons Lorenzo Jr (who plays Basketball for Real Madrid) and Fernando (who plays football for Real Madrid) knew about their father's worsening condition. Fernando announced his father's death.&nbsp;

Lorenzo Jr said: "We have to wait 24 hours but because of his age the situation is very complicated. The hardest thing is not being able to see him."

Lorenzo Sanz became president of the club in the year 1995 and achieved a Champions League glory in 1998, he was the club president 2000.

The death toll in Spain due to coronavirus climbed to 1,326 on Saturday after the health ministry reported 324 deaths. While the number of confirmed infections rose to 24,926 from 19,980 in the previous rally.

The continuously rising number of infections in Spain has put the country into the top four worst-hit countries in the world. Apart from Spain, Iran, Italy and China are the worst affected by the deadly virus which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan.

Real Madrid's ex-president Lorenzo Sanz who led the Spanish club to their Champions League in the year 1998 ending their 32-year wait has died at the age of 76 died due to coronavirus.

Real Madrid's ex-president Lorenzo Sanz who led the Spanish club to their Champions League in the year 1998 ending their 32-year wait has died at the age of 76 died due to coronavirus. Sanz was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday after he was down with fever for eight days where he was tested positive for coronavirus. He suffered kidney failure because of the infection and died on Saturday night. Death of Sanz made him the first high-profile death in Spain. Both his sons Lorenzo Jr (who plays Basketball for Real Madrid) and Fernando (who plays football for Real Madrid) knew about their father's worsening condition. Fernando announced his father's death. Lorenzo Jr said: "We have to wait 24 hours but because of his age the situation is very complicated. The hardest thing is not being able to see him." Lorenzo Sanz became president of the club in the year 1995 and achieved a Champions League glory in 1998, he was the club president 2000. The death toll in Spain due to coronavirus climbed to 1,326 on Saturday after the health ministry reported 324 deaths. While the number of confirmed infections rose to 24,926 from 19,980 in the previous rally. The continuously rising number of infections in Spain has put the country into the top four worst-hit countries in the world. Apart from Spain, Iran, Italy and China are the worst affected by the deadly virus which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan.

Real Madrid's ex-prez Lorenzo Sanz dies due to coronavirus

Manchester City will be up against both Real Madrid and their reputation on Wednesday as the Champions League's biggest winners play one of its biggest underachievers at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-empty-etihad-stadium-witnesses-first-manchester-city-win-after-uefa-ban-281761">Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban</a>

After City's win over Leicester on Saturday, Pep Guardiola said: "We will try to be ourselves. We can win and we can lose but we must try to be ourselves."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj63YTa4evnAhWCxzgGHcxnBd04FBAWMAF6BAgGEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0g9DIodXfqnE2BIBrnaXBA" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776" target="_blank">Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban</a>

Yet in some ways, City will seek a role reversal too. Madrid's record is the envy of Europe but in particular by teams like City, whose financial might and technical talent has translated only into disappointment outside domestic competition.&nbsp;

In the time City have won three Premier League titles and five domestic cups, they have gone past the Champions League's quarter-finals only once, reaching the last four in 2016, only to be beaten by Madrid.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane's side, meanwhile, have surrendered dominance in La Liga to Barcelona but made amends for one Spanish league title in seven years by winning an four Champions Leagues out of the last six.&nbsp;

Few would argue that quality explains the difference. Madrid's success has certainly been due in part to the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo but City have perhaps boasted an even better all-round collection of players and their excellence in England points to a club well-equipped to excel in Europe.&nbsp;

Guardiola has been accused of over-thinking against elite opposition too yet City's lethargy encompasses nine seasons in the Champions League and Guardiola has only been in charge for three.&nbsp;

Instead, Madrid's habit for coming through the kind of crunch games that have so often proved City's undoing suggests each club's identification with the Champions League has become something of a self-fulfilling prophecy.&nbsp;

Madrid believe this tournament is their tournament, a conviction based on historic success that makes them assured under pressure and ruthless in the decisive moments.&nbsp;

"When you have a history of the (Alfredo) Di Stefano period, winning five or six European Cups at that time, it means a new player that comes to Real Madrid and puts on that shirt knows 'we have to defend our history'," said Guardiola. "That gives them a boost because they live that history."&nbsp;

When Madrid last won the Champions League by beating&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;in the final in 2018, their advance to the trophy seemed to rely on a number of crucial interventions falling their way.&nbsp;

In the semi-final against Bayern Munich, they progressed after an error from Bayern's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. In the quarters, they were awarded a fortuitous 97th-minute penalty to beat Juventus. Even in the last 16, they faced a Paris Saint-Germain side without the injured Neymar.&nbsp;

Yet where some saw luck, Madrid's coach and their players saw a refusal to give in.&nbsp;

"The point is Madrid never give up," said Zidane after their last-gasp triumph over Juventus. "We came up against a number of obstacles but we believe in the goals we want to achieve and we achieve them because we fight."&nbsp;

For City, that refusal to accept defeat is still to be established and with every year that victory evades them, doubts grow too.&nbsp;

"It's a real, real test," said Guardiola. "The king of this competition against a team who are not used to playing this kind of game much, because our best performance was one semi-final in our history.&nbsp;

"So, in a marvellous stadium we have to show our personalty."&nbsp;

Personality to Guardiola means a certain style as well as attitude but to Madrid, the objective is more straight-forward.&nbsp;

"At Real Madrid, every season, you have to go for everything and win everything," said Zidane last summer. "And more importantly, we believe we can do it."&nbsp;

Manchester City will be up against both Real Madrid and their reputation on Wednesday as the Champions League's biggest winners play one of its biggest underachievers at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester City will be up against both Real Madrid and their reputation on Wednesday as the Champions League's biggest winners play one of its biggest underachievers at the Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Premier League: 'Empty' Etihad Stadium witnesses first Manchester City win after UEFA ban After City's win over Leicester on Saturday, Pep Guardiola said: "We will try to be ourselves. We can win and we can lose but we must try to be ourselves." Also read: Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban Yet in some ways, City will seek a role reversal too. Madrid's record is the envy of Europe but in particular by teams like City, whose financial might and technical talent has translated only into disappointment outside domestic competition. In the time City have won three Premier League titles and five domestic cups, they have gone past the Champions League's quarter-finals only once, reaching the last four in 2016, only to be beaten by Madrid. Zinedine Zidane's side, meanwhile, have surrendered dominance in La Liga to Barcelona but made amends for one Spanish league title in seven years by winning an four Champions Leagues out of the last six. Few would argue that quality explains the difference. Madrid's success has certainly been due in part to the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo but City have perhaps boasted an even better all-round collection of players and their excellence in England points to a club well-equipped to excel in Europe. Guardiola has been accused of over-thinking against elite opposition too yet City's lethargy encompasses nine seasons in the Champions League and Guardiola has only been in charge for three. Instead, Madrid's habit for coming through the kind of crunch games that have so often proved City's undoing suggests each club's identification with the Champions League has become something of a self-fulfilling prophecy. Madrid believe this tournament is their tournament, a conviction based on historic success that makes them assured under pressure and ruthless in the decisive moments. "When you have a history of the (Alfredo) Di Stefano period, winning five or six European Cups at that time, it means a new player that comes to Real Madrid and puts on that shirt knows 'we have to defend our history'," said Guardiola. "That gives them a boost because they live that history." When Madrid last won the Champions League by beating Liverpool in the final in 2018, their advance to the trophy seemed to rely on a number of crucial interventions falling their way. In the semi-final against Bayern Munich, they progressed after an error from Bayern's goalkeeper Sven Ulreich. In the quarters, they were awarded a fortuitous 97th-minute penalty to beat Juventus. Even in the last 16, they faced a Paris Saint-Germain side without the injured Neymar. Yet where some saw luck, Madrid's coach and their players saw a refusal to give in. "The point is Madrid never give up," said Zidane after their last-gasp triumph over Juventus. "We came up against a number of obstacles but we believe in the goals we want to achieve and we achieve them because we fight." For City, that refusal to accept defeat is still to be established and with every year that victory evades them, doubts grow too. "It's a real, real test," said Guardiola. "The king of this competition against a team who are not used to playing this kind of game much, because our best performance was one semi-final in our history. "So, in a marvellous stadium we have to show our personalty." Personality to Guardiola means a certain style as well as attitude but to Madrid, the objective is more straight-forward. "At Real Madrid, every season, you have to go for everything and win everything," said Zidane last summer. "And more importantly, we believe we can do it."

Manchester City target role reversal against Champions League kings Real Madrid

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point.

Real manager Zinedine Zidane was philosophical.

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👔💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zidane?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zidane</a> analyses our 2-2 draw against <a href="https://twitter.com/RCCeltaEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCCeltaEN</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridCelta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridCelta</a> <a href="https://t.co/bhzYiGlrJY">pic.twitter.com/bhzYiGlrJY</a>
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden/status/1229178136073469953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"There's nothing to explain, it's just the way things are, it's football," he said. "I'm not worried about it, but I'm disappointed, as always when you drop two points at home."&nbsp;

Barcelona beat third-place Getafe on Saturday to open a 10-point gap on the chasing pack. Sevilla could have climbed to third on Sunday but were held, 2-2, at home by rock-bottom Espanyol.&nbsp;

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HIGHLIGHTS | <a href="https://twitter.com/SantiMina7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SantiMina7</a> scored with his first touch as <a href="https://twitter.com/RCCeltaEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCCeltaEN</a> stunned the Bernabeu! 💙😱 
 
📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridCelta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridCelta</a> <a href="https://t.co/SK12xGJL6y">pic.twitter.com/SK12xGJL6y</a>
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1229176907251449857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Real had won five straight in La Liga to accelerate past Barcelona. On Sunday they welcomed back Eden Hazard, who had been out since November. Coach Zinedine Zidane also recalled his other 100 million euro player Gareth Bale to complete an all-star attack with Karim Benzema.

Yet Celta leapt into the lead after seven minutes. A pass from Iago Aspas sent Fedor Smolov galloping clear up the middle and he shot low past Thibaut Courtois.

"There were mistakes, especially for the first goal," said Zidane. "We were not well-positioned, it happens, and it'll happen to us again."

Celta had only climbed out of the relegation places the weekend before and looked anxious and overawed on the ball.&nbsp;

Real dominated the rest of the first half and their starry attacking lineup produced pacy, intricate and imaginative attacking interchanges but a combination of good defending and bad finishing kept Real out for the rest of the first half.

Real again dominated the start of the first half.&nbsp;

Sergio Ramos, already playing as an extra striker, slammed the ball into the net but had been standing offside.&nbsp;

In the 52nd minute, Marcelo, not for the first time, found space on the left. His low cross deflected to Toni Kroos following the attack. The German drilled in the equaliser. It was the sixth straight season Kroos had scored against Celta.

In the 65th minute, goalkeeper Ruben Blanco pulled down the impressive Hazard. Ramos slammed the penalty into the bottom corner of the net.

"We're glad he's back," said Zidane who took the Belgian off in the 73rd minute.

"We know what he can do for us. He didn't go further than we planned after three months out," Zidane said. "He was involved in a lot of attacking action."

Celta responded by rediscovering their attacking nerve.

With four minutes left, a sharp pass from Denis Suarez, who had come on in the 71st minute, caught the Real back four rigid on the edge of their own area. Santi Mina, who had been on for just two minutes, raced onto the ball and drilled a shot past Courtois.

"An extraordinary pass," said Zidane.

Real play Levante in the league next Sunday before entertaining Manchester City in the Champions League.

"Now we have to prepare for our next game because after that it's going to get harder and harder."

Real Madrid also used the match Sunday to send a message to China.

The players came on before the match wearing shirts with the Chinese message "China, come on!"

During the game the advertising hoardings flashed up the English message "Wuhan! Come on! We support you!"

"Real Madrid wishes to express its full support for all of the people affected by the coronavirus," the club tweeted in English.

Yao Fei, Charge d'Affaires in China's Madrid embassy, responded with a tweet of thanks in Spanish.

"A million thanks to Real Madrid for their valuable support for China in the fight against the coronavirus! Victory will be ours!"

The point ensured Celta stayed just outside the relegations places ahead of Mallorca, who beat Alaves on Saturday, on goal difference. The pair are two points clear of Leganes, who drew with Betis on Sunday and Espanyol who drew at Sevilla.

Sevilla missed a chance to exploit Getafe's loss to Barcelona and fourth-placed Atletico Madrid's 2-2 draw at Valencia on Friday.&nbsp;

Lucas Ocampos headed Sevilla in front after 14 minutes before Adrian Embarba levelled the scores with a free-kick.

China winger Wu Lei put the away side ahead five minutes after the break.

After Victor Sanchez was sent off Suso exploited Sevilla's man advantage to score his first goal for the club since arriving on loan from AC Milan last month.

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point.

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point. Real manager Zinedine Zidane was philosophical. 👔💬 #Zidane analyses our 2-2 draw against @RCCeltaEN. #RealMadridCelta pic.twitter.com/bhzYiGlrJY — Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) February 16, 2020 × "There's nothing to explain, it's just the way things are, it's football," he said. "I'm not worried about it, but I'm disappointed, as always when you drop two points at home." Barcelona beat third-place Getafe on Saturday to open a 10-point gap on the chasing pack. Sevilla could have climbed to third on Sunday but were held, 2-2, at home by rock-bottom Espanyol. HIGHLIGHTS | @SantiMina7 scored with his first touch as @RCCeltaEN stunned the Bernabeu! 💙😱 📺 #RealMadridCelta pic.twitter.com/SK12xGJL6y — LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) February 16, 2020 × Real had won five straight in La Liga to accelerate past Barcelona. On Sunday they welcomed back Eden Hazard, who had been out since November. Coach Zinedine Zidane also recalled his other 100 million euro player Gareth Bale to complete an all-star attack with Karim Benzema. Yet Celta leapt into the lead after seven minutes. A pass from Iago Aspas sent Fedor Smolov galloping clear up the middle and he shot low past Thibaut Courtois. "There were mistakes, especially for the first goal," said Zidane. "We were not well-positioned, it happens, and it'll happen to us again." Celta had only climbed out of the relegation places the weekend before and looked anxious and overawed on the ball. Real dominated the rest of the first half and their starry attacking lineup produced pacy, intricate and imaginative attacking interchanges but a combination of good defending and bad finishing kept Real out for the rest of the first half. Real again dominated the start of the first half. Sergio Ramos, already playing as an extra striker, slammed the ball into the net but had been standing offside. In the 52nd minute, Marcelo, not for the first time, found space on the left. His low cross deflected to Toni Kroos following the attack. The German drilled in the equaliser. It was the sixth straight season Kroos had scored against Celta. In the 65th minute, goalkeeper Ruben Blanco pulled down the impressive Hazard. Ramos slammed the penalty into the bottom corner of the net. "We're glad he's back," said Zidane who took the Belgian off in the 73rd minute. "We know what he can do for us. He didn't go further than we planned after three months out," Zidane said. "He was involved in a lot of attacking action." Celta responded by rediscovering their attacking nerve. With four minutes left, a sharp pass from Denis Suarez, who had come on in the 71st minute, caught the Real back four rigid on the edge of their own area. Santi Mina, who had been on for just two minutes, raced onto the ball and drilled a shot past Courtois. "An extraordinary pass," said Zidane. Real play Levante in the league next Sunday before entertaining Manchester City in the Champions League. "Now we have to prepare for our next game because after that it's going to get harder and harder." Real Madrid also used the match Sunday to send a message to China. The players came on before the match wearing shirts with the Chinese message "China, come on!" During the game the advertising hoardings flashed up the English message "Wuhan! Come on! We support you!" "Real Madrid wishes to express its full support for all of the people affected by the coronavirus," the club tweeted in English. Yao Fei, Charge d'Affaires in China's Madrid embassy, responded with a tweet of thanks in Spanish. "A million thanks to Real Madrid for their valuable support for China in the fight against the coronavirus! Victory will be ours!" The point ensured Celta stayed just outside the relegations places ahead of Mallorca, who beat Alaves on Saturday, on goal difference. The pair are two points clear of Leganes, who drew with Betis on Sunday and Espanyol who drew at Sevilla. Sevilla missed a chance to exploit Getafe's loss to Barcelona and fourth-placed Atletico Madrid's 2-2 draw at Valencia on Friday. Lucas Ocampos headed Sevilla in front after 14 minutes before Adrian Embarba levelled the scores with a free-kick. China winger Wu Lei put the away side ahead five minutes after the break. After Victor Sanchez was sent off Suso exploited Sevilla's man advantage to score his first goal for the club since arriving on loan from AC Milan last month.

La Liga: Celta strike late to put brakes on Real Madrid

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

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

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

Neymar back from injury for Borussia Dortmund clash

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-over-635-president-xi-says-china-starting-peoples-war-279156">As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war'</a>

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b33696b8-bc26-4c81-9452-db4cd0ac207b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_48.jpg" /> 
The death toll in&nbsp;China's&nbsp;coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-over-635-president-xi-says-china-starting-peoples-war-279156">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-killed-chief-of-al-qaeda-in-arabian-peninsula-in-yemen-trump-279162">US killed chief of Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula in Yemen: Trump</a>

<img alt="Military chief of Al-Qaeda network in Yemen Qassim al-Rimi " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23caa27f-945e-46d6-acc4-759cf9c13807" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127729-qassim1main.jpg" />

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that US forces had killed its founder and leader Qassim al-Rimi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-killed-chief-of-al-qaeda-in-arabian-peninsula-in-yemen-trump-279162">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-palestinians-killed-16-israelis-hurt-in-violence-over-trump-plan-279166">At&nbsp;least&nbsp;two&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;killed,&nbsp;16&nbsp;Israelis&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;in&nbsp;violence&nbsp;over&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;plan</a>

<img alt="A Palestinian hurls stones at Israeli troops" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="108cbef5-458a-485f-8775-9cf9ed5112a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_23.jpg" />

At&nbsp;least&nbsp;two&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the occupied West Bank and&nbsp;16&nbsp;Israelis&nbsp;were&nbsp;hurt&nbsp;on Thursday in a surge of&nbsp;violence&nbsp;that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a&nbsp;US&nbsp;peace&nbsp;plan. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-palestinians-killed-16-israelis-hurt-in-violence-over-trump-plan-279166">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basque-double-dumps-barcelona-and-real-madrid-out-of-copa-del-rey-279158">Basque double dumps Barcelona and Real Madrid out of Copa del Rey</a>

<img alt="Real Madrid and Barcelona" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb818dda-eb2b-4f94-a576-45acac5327fd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/127726-113918-untitled-design-60.jpg" /> 
Barcelona&nbsp;and&nbsp;Real Madrid&nbsp;both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/basque-double-dumps-barcelona-and-real-madrid-out-of-copa-del-rey-279158">Read more</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jet-skids-off-runway-in-istanbul-279154">Gravitas: Jet skids off runway in Istanbul</a>

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Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war' The death toll in China's coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. As coronavirus death toll rises over 635, President Xi says China starting 'people's war' The death toll in China's coronavirus continued to rise on Friday with authorities reporting at least 636 deaths with infections rising past 31,000. Read more US killed chief of Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula in Yemen: Trump US President Donald Trump has confirmed that US forces had killed its founder and leader Qassim al-Rimi. Read more At least two Palestinians killed, 16 Israelis hurt in violence over Trump plan At least two Palestinians were killed in the occupied West Bank and 16 Israelis were hurt on Thursday in a surge of violence that erupted amid Palestinian anger at a US peace plan. Read more Basque double dumps Barcelona and Real Madrid out of Copa del Rey Barcelona and Real Madrid both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals. Read more Gravitas: Jet skids off runway in Istanbul

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, US kills Al-Qaeda chief in Arabian Peninsula and more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Barcelona </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/latest-sports-news-real-madrid-vs-atletico-madrid-karim-benzema-scores-home-win-278121">Real Madrid</a> both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Barca</a> was beaten 1-0 by Bilbao at San Mames, where Inaki Williams headed in a dramatic 93rd-minute winner after La Real had seen off Madrid 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Messi fires back at Barca sporting director Abidal after jibe</a>

Two sensational upsets added another layer of excitement to a competition that has been full of surprises this season, with Bilbao and Real Sociedad joining Granada and second division Mirandes in an unfamiliar line-up for the draw on Friday.

"There have been some surprise results," said Williams. "Sometimes you just have to have faith and heart." &nbsp;

For Barca, defeat was particularly painful, coming at the end of a turbulent week that saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Lionel Messi</a> engage in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">public spat</a> with the club's sporting director <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Eric Abidal</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Ousmane Dembele</a> ruled out, probably for the rest of the season, with another hamstring tear.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-might-leave-barcelona-next-summer-following-his-clash-with-abidal-278991">Lionel Messi targets Abidal fueling Barcelona exit rumours</a>

To make matters worse, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Gerard Pique</a> hobbled off with his own injury problem in the second half against Bilbao and looks doubtful to face Real Betis in La Liga on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Messi</a>'s riposte that "everyone should take responsibility for their own decisions" after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Abidal </a>suggested <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Ernesto Valverde</a> was sacked last month because of the players, means <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Barcelona </a>are in political turmoil off the pitch.&nbsp;

And the fear is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-back-at-barca-sporting-director-abidal-after-jibe-278773">Messi </a>could even leave in the summer by activating a clause in his contract that allows him to walk away from the club for free.

Defeat in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-del-rey-boost-for-setien-as-messi-leads-barca-rout-over-leganes-277671">Copa del Rey</a>, a distant third in Barca's list of priorities this season, will not dictate Messi's thinking but another setback certainly adds to the sense of a club currently in a state of crisis.

Quique Setien has lost two of his opening six games in charge, with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-16-draw-date-rules-possible-scenarios-for-english-teams-and-all-you-need-to-know-268455">Champions League</a> tie against Napoli fast-approaching.&nbsp;The fall-out from another failure in Europe would prove longer-lasting.

"We deserved to go through," said Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu. "But the ambition and attitude I saw on the field encourage me for the league and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-16-draw-date-rules-possible-scenarios-for-english-teams-and-all-you-need-to-know-268455">Champions League</a>. Success can come."

For a rotated Madrid side, who sit top of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-to-kick-off-la-liga-next-friday-after-courts-fixture-ruling-241878">La Liga</a>, the loss against Real Sociedad was perhaps less damaging, even if they conceded as many goals in 69 minutes as they had in their last 11 matches put together.

"It hurts, we have to be honest, nobody likes a defeat," said Madrid coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-unfazed-by-jose-mourinho-talk-as-real-madrid-prepare-for-sevilla-test-251051">Zinedine Zidane</a>.

Their 21-game unbeaten streak comes to an end after an uncharacteristically careless performance in which a rotated side highlighted the importance of the likes of Casemiro, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-wants-raphael-varane-to-stay-but-is-ambiguous-about-gareth-bale-future-207501">Raphael Varane</a> and Thibaut Courtois.

Barcelona and Real Madrid both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals.

Barcelona and Real Madrid both crashed out of the Copa del Rey on Thursday night as Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad pulled off a shock Basque double to reach the semi-finals. Barca was beaten 1-0 by Bilbao at San Mames, where Inaki Williams headed in a dramatic 93rd-minute winner after La Real had seen off Madrid 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller at the Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Messi fires back at Barca sporting director Abidal after jibe Two sensational upsets added another layer of excitement to a competition that has been full of surprises this season, with Bilbao and Real Sociedad joining Granada and second division Mirandes in an unfamiliar line-up for the draw on Friday. "There have been some surprise results," said Williams. "Sometimes you just have to have faith and heart." For Barca, defeat was particularly painful, coming at the end of a turbulent week that saw Lionel Messi engage in a public spat with the club's sporting director Eric Abidal and Ousmane Dembele ruled out, probably for the rest of the season, with another hamstring tear. Also read: Lionel Messi targets Abidal fueling Barcelona exit rumours To make matters worse, Gerard Pique hobbled off with his own injury problem in the second half against Bilbao and looks doubtful to face Real Betis in La Liga on Sunday. Messi's riposte that "everyone should take responsibility for their own decisions" after Abidal suggested Ernesto Valverde was sacked last month because of the players, means Barcelona are in political turmoil off the pitch. And the fear is Messi could even leave in the summer by activating a clause in his contract that allows him to walk away from the club for free. Defeat in the Copa del Rey, a distant third in Barca's list of priorities this season, will not dictate Messi's thinking but another setback certainly adds to the sense of a club currently in a state of crisis. Quique Setien has lost two of his opening six games in charge, with a Champions League tie against Napoli fast-approaching. The fall-out from another failure in Europe would prove longer-lasting. "We deserved to go through," said Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu. "But the ambition and attitude I saw on the field encourage me for the league and the Champions League. Success can come." For a rotated Madrid side, who sit top of La Liga, the loss against Real Sociedad was perhaps less damaging, even if they conceded as many goals in 69 minutes as they had in their last 11 matches put together. "It hurts, we have to be honest, nobody likes a defeat," said Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane. Their 21-game unbeaten streak comes to an end after an uncharacteristically careless performance in which a rotated side highlighted the importance of the likes of Casemiro, Raphael Varane and Thibaut Courtois.

Basque double dumps Barcelona and Real Madrid out of Copa del Rey

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">La Liga</a> title credentials. Benzema's strike gave Real their first home <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-sd-eibar-beat-atletico-madrid-for-first-time-in-league-history-275242">victory</a> over their neighbours in the league since 2012 and piled more pressure on Atleti coach Diego Simeone, who was subjected to taunts from the gleeful Santiago Bernabeu crowd.

The victory meant <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real </a>increased their lead over Barcelona at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-casemiros-double-against-sevilla-takes-real-madrid-top-of-table-275245">top of the table</a> to six points, although the Catalans can reduce the margin to three if they beat Levante on Sunday. Atletico are fifth and trail their local rivals by 13 points, while their injury problems deepened when striker Alvaro Morata limped off early in the second half with a suspected muscle problem.

French forward Benzema had not scored in his previous four league outings but broke the deadlock in the 56th minute of a tight game by side-footing home a cross from Ferland Mendy after coach Zinedine Zidane had sprung a double substitution. Zidane had begun the match with a compact narrow formation containing five midfielders but after failing to break down Atletico he hauled off Toni Kroos and Isco at the start of the second half for natural wingers Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Jr.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th-spanish-super-cup-273840">Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup</a>

<img alt="Benzema " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08487b16-6076-4308-b672-3d24a772c1d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-02-02T123741.230.jpg" /> 
[&nbsp;Madrid's Karim Benzema celebrates scoring their first goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

The change instantly gave Real more width and Brazilian teenager Vinicius helped burst open a stubborn Atletico with some patient play in midfield, taking out three defenders by releasing Mendy, who needed only one touch to pick out Benzema. "I wasn't happy with what I was seeing on the pitch so I made the chances to give us more wing play and more pressure in attack but it wasn't the players' fault, it was mine," Zidane told reporters.

"The substitutions changed the game but I don't like taking players off after the first half because it's harsh on the players but it's what I had to do. We were much better in the second half and I think we deserved the victory," he added. Atletico rarely looked like troubling a Real defence that has only conceded 13 goals in 22 league games this season, although they had a strong penalty appeal turned down when Casemiro sent Morata to the ground in the first half.

Morata's injury swelled Atletico's list of injured players to seven, less than three weeks before they are due to host holders Liverpool in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Argentine has transformed Atletico's fortunes during his tenure including four wins at the Bernabeu but on this occasion, he was subjected to derisory from the home crowd, who chanted "Simeone please stay" as the final whistle approached. 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's La Liga title credentials.

Real Madrid twisted the knife into their wounded rivals Atletico Madrid as Karim Benzema fired them to a 1-0 home win in the city derby on Saturday which also underlined Real's La Liga title credentials. Benzema's strike gave Real their first home victory over their neighbours in the league since 2012 and piled more pressure on Atleti coach Diego Simeone, who was subjected to taunts from the gleeful Santiago Bernabeu crowd. The victory meant Real increased their lead over Barcelona at the top of the table to six points, although the Catalans can reduce the margin to three if they beat Levante on Sunday. Atletico are fifth and trail their local rivals by 13 points, while their injury problems deepened when striker Alvaro Morata limped off early in the second half with a suspected muscle problem. French forward Benzema had not scored in his previous four league outings but broke the deadlock in the 56th minute of a tight game by side-footing home a cross from Ferland Mendy after coach Zinedine Zidane had sprung a double substitution. Zidane had begun the match with a compact narrow formation containing five midfielders but after failing to break down Atletico he hauled off Toni Kroos and Isco at the start of the second half for natural wingers Lucas Vazquez and Vinicius Jr. Also Read: Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup [ Madrid's Karim Benzema celebrates scoring their first goal (Courtesy: Reuters) ] The change instantly gave Real more width and Brazilian teenager Vinicius helped burst open a stubborn Atletico with some patient play in midfield, taking out three defenders by releasing Mendy, who needed only one touch to pick out Benzema. "I wasn't happy with what I was seeing on the pitch so I made the chances to give us more wing play and more pressure in attack but it wasn't the players' fault, it was mine," Zidane told reporters. "The substitutions changed the game but I don't like taking players off after the first half because it's harsh on the players but it's what I had to do. We were much better in the second half and I think we deserved the victory," he added. Atletico rarely looked like troubling a Real defence that has only conceded 13 goals in 22 league games this season, although they had a strong penalty appeal turned down when Casemiro sent Morata to the ground in the first half. Morata's injury swelled Atletico's list of injured players to seven, less than three weeks before they are due to host holders Liverpool in the last 16 of the Champions League. The Argentine has transformed Atletico's fortunes during his tenure including four wins at the Bernabeu but on this occasion, he was subjected to derisory from the home crowd, who chanted "Simeone please stay" as the final whistle approached.

Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid; Karim Benzema scores home win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th- spanish-super-cup-273840">Real Madrid</a> midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla&nbsp;on Saturday that took them top of&nbsp;La&nbsp;Liga&nbsp;for at least 24 hours.

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5⃣ Tackles! 
1⃣1⃣ Recoveries! 
 
Complete performance from <a href="https://twitter.com/Casemiro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Casemiro</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridSevillaFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridSevillaFC</a>. 💯💫 <a href="https://t.co/cAENtEs8FI">pic.twitter.com/cAENtEs8FI</a>
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1218715700459642880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sevilla, however, were left fuming by the decision to rule out a first-half header from Luuk de Jong from a corner after a VAR review of a challenge by midfielder Nemanja Gudelj on Real defender Eder Militao.

Brazilian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../supercopa-quick-thinking-kroos-helps-real-to- final-273097">Casemiro</a>, initially deployed as a holding midfielder, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute with an ice-cool dinked finish after a back-heel from Serbian forward Luka Jovic released him in the area.

Sevilla&nbsp;levelled in the 64th with a curled effort from Dutch striker De Jong which was allowed to stand even though the ball had bounced off the elbow of forward Munir El Haddadi in the build-up.

Casemiro dragged Real back in front moments&nbsp;later with a towering header, taking his side first in the standings on 43 points after 20 games, three ahead of champions Barcelona who host Granada on Sunday.

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Real Madrid take the top spot in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaLigaSantander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaLigaSantander</a> after their win at the Bernabeu. 🔝💜 <a href="https://t.co/WQT3RbXqWe">pic.twitter.com/WQT3RbXqWe</a>
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLigaEN/status/1218655726329114624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sevilla's sporting director Monchi was furious with the decision to rule out the first goal for the tangle between Gudelj and Militao.

"It's the type of thing you see all the time, and I refuse to analyse the game after that because that moment was key and it's absurd to try and give any analysis after a goal like that was ruled out," he told reporters.

"If they had ruled out our other goal, I would have gone down to the pitch and ordered my players to leave."

Sevilla&nbsp;coach Julen Lopetegui added: "I cannot understand how they could rule out that goal, there is no reason at all."

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla on Saturday that took them top of La Liga for at least 24 hours.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro produced a performance worthy of a top striker by scoring twice in a 2-1 win for Zinedine Zidane's side over Sevilla on Saturday that took them top of La Liga for at least 24 hours. 5⃣ Tackles! 1⃣1⃣ Recoveries! Complete performance from @Casemiro in #RealMadridSevillaFC. 💯💫 pic.twitter.com/cAENtEs8FI — LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) January 19, 2020 × Sevilla, however, were left fuming by the decision to rule out a first-half header from Luuk de Jong from a corner after a VAR review of a challenge by midfielder Nemanja Gudelj on Real defender Eder Militao. Brazilian Casemiro, initially deployed as a holding midfielder, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute with an ice-cool dinked finish after a back-heel from Serbian forward Luka Jovic released him in the area. Sevilla levelled in the 64th with a curled effort from Dutch striker De Jong which was allowed to stand even though the ball had bounced off the elbow of forward Munir El Haddadi in the build-up. Casemiro dragged Real back in front moments later with a towering header, taking his side first in the standings on 43 points after 20 games, three ahead of champions Barcelona who host Granada on Sunday. Real Madrid take the top spot in #LaLigaSantander after their win at the Bernabeu. 🔝💜 pic.twitter.com/WQT3RbXqWe — LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) January 18, 2020 × Sevilla's sporting director Monchi was furious with the decision to rule out the first goal for the tangle between Gudelj and Militao. "It's the type of thing you see all the time, and I refuse to analyse the game after that because that moment was key and it's absurd to try and give any analysis after a goal like that was ruled out," he told reporters. "If they had ruled out our other goal, I would have gone down to the pitch and ordered my players to leave." Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui added: "I cannot understand how they could rule out that goal, there is no reason at all."

La Liga: Casemiro's double against Sevilla takes Real Madrid top of table

Barcelona have overtaken Real Madrid to top the Deloitte Football Money League for the first time and become the first club to break the 800 million euros (686 million pounds) revenue barrier.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-draw-as-clasico-marred-by-violence-269061">Also Read:&nbsp;Barcelona, Real Madrid draw as Clasico marred by violence</a>

The 23rd edition of the table shows an 11 per cent&nbsp;rise in combined revenues, excluding transfer fees, for the top 20 clubs who between them enjoyed turnovers of a record 9.3 billion euros for the 2018-19 season.

Real Madrid have dropped to second, generating income of 757.3 million euros, while Manchester United remain third.

Arsenal have slipped out of the top 10 or the first time.

Barcelona's rise to the top with income of 840 million euros is a clear sign of 'a club adapting to changing market conditions' by bringing merchandising and licensing activities in-house, according to Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte.

"Barca have reduced the reliance on broadcast revenue and focussing on growing revenues within it's control," he said.

"With the club expecting further growth of 30 million euros in commercial revenues and total revenue of almost 880 million in 2019-20 we expect them to retain the top spot next year.

"Barca are on course to achieve its stated ambition to be the first one billion Money League club in years to come."

Bayern Munich remain in fourth position with Paris St Germain entering the top five ahead of Manchester City.

Champions League winners Liverpool are seventh, one place ahead of Tottenham Hotspur who they beat in the final.

Tottenham's 521.1 million euros income pushes them ahead of Chelsea and Arsenal, making them the capital's highest revenue generating club for the first time since 1996-97.

Once again the Premier League's eye-watering television broadcast deals have enables it to dominate the Money League with eight clubs inside the top 20.

Spain's La Liga has three and the Bundesliga have three while Serie A has four but Juventus are the highest-placed in 10th. Napoli have moved into the top 20.

Juventus' revenue increased 17 per cent to 459.7 million euros, helped by the arrival of talismanic Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

Apart from PSG, only Olympique Lyonnais of France's Ligue 1 are on the list.

While Jones says revenue growth in Europe's big soccer leagues continues to outpace other sectors, mainly because of broadcasting rights, there is a marked concentration of increase at the top with the combined revenue of the top five clubs more than the combined total of the clubs ranked 10th to 20th.

"What is notable in this edition of the Money League is the apparent continuing emergence of 'mini-leagues within the Money League'," he said. "The largest revenue-generating clubs continue to pull away from the rest."

The highest-ranked club outside the big five leagues is Ajax Amsterdam in 23rd place.

Barcelona have overtaken Real Madrid to top the Deloitte Football Money League for the first time and become the first club to break the 800 million euros (686 million pounds) revenue barrier.

Barcelona have overtaken Real Madrid to top the Deloitte Football Money League for the first time and become the first club to break the 800 million euros (686 million pounds) revenue barrier. Also Read: Barcelona, Real Madrid draw as Clasico marred by violence The 23rd edition of the table shows an 11 per cent rise in combined revenues, excluding transfer fees, for the top 20 clubs who between them enjoyed turnovers of a record 9.3 billion euros for the 2018-19 season. Real Madrid have dropped to second, generating income of 757.3 million euros, while Manchester United remain third. Arsenal have slipped out of the top 10 or the first time. Barcelona's rise to the top with income of 840 million euros is a clear sign of 'a club adapting to changing market conditions' by bringing merchandising and licensing activities in-house, according to Dan Jones, partner in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte. "Barca have reduced the reliance on broadcast revenue and focussing on growing revenues within it's control," he said. "With the club expecting further growth of 30 million euros in commercial revenues and total revenue of almost 880 million in 2019-20 we expect them to retain the top spot next year. "Barca are on course to achieve its stated ambition to be the first one billion Money League club in years to come." Bayern Munich remain in fourth position with Paris St Germain entering the top five ahead of Manchester City. Champions League winners Liverpool are seventh, one place ahead of Tottenham Hotspur who they beat in the final. Tottenham's 521.1 million euros income pushes them ahead of Chelsea and Arsenal, making them the capital's highest revenue generating club for the first time since 1996-97. Once again the Premier League's eye-watering television broadcast deals have enables it to dominate the Money League with eight clubs inside the top 20. Spain's La Liga has three and the Bundesliga have three while Serie A has four but Juventus are the highest-placed in 10th. Napoli have moved into the top 20. Juventus' revenue increased 17 per cent to 459.7 million euros, helped by the arrival of talismanic Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Apart from PSG, only Olympique Lyonnais of France's Ligue 1 are on the list. While Jones says revenue growth in Europe's big soccer leagues continues to outpace other sectors, mainly because of broadcasting rights, there is a marked concentration of increase at the top with the combined revenue of the top five clubs more than the combined total of the clubs ranked 10th to 20th. "What is notable in this edition of the Money League is the apparent continuing emergence of 'mini-leagues within the Money League'," he said. "The largest revenue-generating clubs continue to pull away from the rest." The highest-ranked club outside the big five leagues is Ajax Amsterdam in 23rd place.

Now, Barcelona outshines Real Madrid in 'money league'

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real Madrid</a> beat city rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cup-atletico-madrid-beat-fc-barcelona-exciting-game-play-ends-with-nail-biting-finish-273311">Atletico Madrid</a> in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup.

Courtois and Jan Oblak were both imperious during a goalless final in Jeddah but the Belgian came up trumps, saving Thomas Partey's penalty after Saul Niguez had already hit the post.

Sergio Ramos tucked away the winning spot-kick to ensure Real Madrid clinched their first trophy of the season, with La Liga and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-16-draw-date-rules-possible-scenarios-for-english-teams-and-all-you-need-to-know-268455">Champions League</a> next in their sights.

"I went through their takers on the bench," said Courtois. "Saul's surprised me but Thomas' I read, and he's got a very hard shot."

Atletico might have won it in extra-time when Alvaro Morata went through one-on-one but Real's Federico Valverde took a red card in exchange for cynically fouling the striker from behind.

"It was something you shouldn't do and I apologised to Alvaro but it was the only option I had left," said Valverde.

"It was the most important moment of the match," added Atletico coach Diego Simeone.&nbsp;

"If he had gone through it was a goal but I told him that anyone would have done the same in his position."

Victory maintains Zinedine Zidane's spotless record as a coach in finals.&nbsp;

He has now led Madrid to success three times in the Champions League, and two each in the Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spanish-super-cups-format-relocation-to-saudi-arabia-due-to-footballs-desire-for-money-says-valverde-273188">Spanish Super Cup</a>.

"I have won many things as a player and now as a coach," said Zidane. "But I congratulate the players. You can achieve anything if you work hard enough."

The focus before the tournament was more on the decision of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to move this year's Super Cup a four-team competition rather than a straight final away from Spain and to Saudi Arabia, despite the country's long-criticised treatment of women and record on human rights.

Before the final, RFEF president Luis Rubiales said he was "very happy" with how the format had panned out. "We have to improve things because it is a country that has just started organising these sorts of events," he added.

For all the controversy off the pitch, on the pitch, the tournament has delivered.&nbsp;

Real Madrid played brilliantly to beat Valencia on Wednesday while a pulsating 3-2 win for Atletico on Thursday has put Barcelona coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ernesto-valverde-backs-griezmann-to-connect-with-messi-suarez-238867">Ernesto Valverde</a> on the brink of the sack.&nbsp;

And although the final lacked goals and quality finishing, there was drama until the end and joy on the faces of Real Madrid's players as Ramos hoisted another trophy under the fireworks.

Ramos had been guilty of sloppiness early on and Atletico should have capitalised.&nbsp;

The defender played a pass straight to Joao Felix on the edge of the area but Felix dragged wide and then Ferland Mendy gave the ball away, only for Morata to look for contact from Courtois and a penalty when there was neither.

Both teams had good chances to win it late on, with Luka Jovic's deflected cross finding Valverde free five yards out but the midfielder's header hit his own knee before drifting harmlessly over.

Then Atletico might have nicked it as Kieran Trippier clipped an excellent pass over the top for Morata, who opted for accuracy rather than power and Courtois was able to push away.&nbsp;

Into extra-time and, with 105 minutes on the clock, Courtois did well to flash out a leg and block Morata's acrobatic effort while Oblak twice denied Real, first a curling shot from Luka Modric and then a follow-up from Mariano Diaz.

Yet the most dramatic moment was still to come as Saul sent Morata clean through, with only Courtois to beat, before the chasing Valverde scythed him down from behind.&nbsp;

The red card was inevitable but Atletico only had a free-kick and, for four minutes, a one-man advantage. Trippier hit the free-kick into the wall and Real held on for penalties.&nbsp;

Carvajal found the corner but Saul struck the post, despite sending Courtois the wrong way. Rodrygo coolly put Real two ahead and Thomas missed, this time Courtois diving right and palming clear.&nbsp;

Modric swept into the corner before Trippier did the same. It was left to Ramos to hit the winning shot.&nbsp;

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as Real Madrid beat city rivals Atletico Madrid in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup.

Thibaut Courtois proved the hero on Sunday as Real Madrid beat city rivals Atletico Madrid in a penalty shoot-out in Saudi Arabia to win their 11th Spanish Super Cup. Courtois and Jan Oblak were both imperious during a goalless final in Jeddah but the Belgian came up trumps, saving Thomas Partey's penalty after Saul Niguez had already hit the post. Sergio Ramos tucked away the winning spot-kick to ensure Real Madrid clinched their first trophy of the season, with La Liga and the Champions League next in their sights. "I went through their takers on the bench," said Courtois. "Saul's surprised me but Thomas' I read, and he's got a very hard shot." Atletico might have won it in extra-time when Alvaro Morata went through one-on-one but Real's Federico Valverde took a red card in exchange for cynically fouling the striker from behind. "It was something you shouldn't do and I apologised to Alvaro but it was the only option I had left," said Valverde. "It was the most important moment of the match," added Atletico coach Diego Simeone. "If he had gone through it was a goal but I told him that anyone would have done the same in his position." Victory maintains Zinedine Zidane's spotless record as a coach in finals. He has now led Madrid to success three times in the Champions League, and two each in the Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and now Spanish Super Cup. "I have won many things as a player and now as a coach," said Zidane. "But I congratulate the players. You can achieve anything if you work hard enough." The focus before the tournament was more on the decision of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to move this year's Super Cup a four-team competition rather than a straight final away from Spain and to Saudi Arabia, despite the country's long-criticised treatment of women and record on human rights. Before the final, RFEF president Luis Rubiales said he was "very happy" with how the format had panned out. "We have to improve things because it is a country that has just started organising these sorts of events," he added. For all the controversy off the pitch, on the pitch, the tournament has delivered. Real Madrid played brilliantly to beat Valencia on Wednesday while a pulsating 3-2 win for Atletico on Thursday has put Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde on the brink of the sack. And although the final lacked goals and quality finishing, there was drama until the end and joy on the faces of Real Madrid's players as Ramos hoisted another trophy under the fireworks. Ramos had been guilty of sloppiness early on and Atletico should have capitalised. The defender played a pass straight to Joao Felix on the edge of the area but Felix dragged wide and then Ferland Mendy gave the ball away, only for Morata to look for contact from Courtois and a penalty when there was neither. Both teams had good chances to win it late on, with Luka Jovic's deflected cross finding Valverde free five yards out but the midfielder's header hit his own knee before drifting harmlessly over. Then Atletico might have nicked it as Kieran Trippier clipped an excellent pass over the top for Morata, who opted for accuracy rather than power and Courtois was able to push away. Into extra-time and, with 105 minutes on the clock, Courtois did well to flash out a leg and block Morata's acrobatic effort while Oblak twice denied Real, first a curling shot from Luka Modric and then a follow-up from Mariano Diaz. Yet the most dramatic moment was still to come as Saul sent Morata clean through, with only Courtois to beat, before the chasing Valverde scythed him down from behind. The red card was inevitable but Atletico only had a free-kick and, for four minutes, a one-man advantage. Trippier hit the free-kick into the wall and Real held on for penalties. Carvajal found the corner but Saul struck the post, despite sending Courtois the wrong way. Rodrygo coolly put Real two ahead and Thomas missed, this time Courtois diving right and palming clear. Modric swept into the corner before Trippier did the same. It was left to Ramos to hit the winning shot.

Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-sevilla-miss-chance-to-catch-real-with-draw-against-bilbao-272094">Real Madrid</a> midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday.

Isco and Luka Modric scored either side of halftime to put <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-unfazed-by-jose-mourinho-talk-as-real-madrid-prepare-for-sevilla-test-251051">Zinedine Zidane</a>'s side further at ease before Dani Parejo converted a consolation penalty for last year's Copa del Rey winners in added time.

Real will meet the winners of Thursday's semi between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in Sunday's showpiece at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah.

Germany international Kroos caught Valencia's Jaume Domenech out to open the scoring in the 15th minute, curling a cross towards goal while the keeper was still organising his defence and the ball flew over the line before Domenech could recover.

The soft manner of the goal appeared to hit Valencia hard after an even start to the game and Isco put Real further ahead by volleying home in the 39th minute after a sweeping move involving Federico&nbsp;Valverde&nbsp;and Dani Carvajal.

Modric killed off Valencia's faint hopes of a second-half revival, providing a classy finish with the outside of his boot in the 65th minute to completing another incisive Real counter-attack.

"We were in complete control throughout the game, we came out with the intention of getting hold of the ball, that's what we did and our plan worked perfectly," Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters.

The 62,000-capacity arena was around two-thirds full for the first game of the competition, which used to be a two-legged season curtain raiser between the Spanish league champions and the Cup winners but has been given a radical facelift.

Spanish soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales spearheaded the changes to the format, increasing the number of teams to four and signing a three-year deal to move it to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-appeals-for-calm-after-killing-of-iranian-general-qasem-soleimani-272563">Saudi Arabia</a> which media reports say is worth 40 million euros annually.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday.

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos scored directly from a corner as his side booked their place in the final of the revamped Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia by outclassing Valencia 3-1 on Wednesday. Isco and Luka Modric scored either side of halftime to put Zinedine Zidane's side further at ease before Dani Parejo converted a consolation penalty for last year's Copa del Rey winners in added time. Real will meet the winners of Thursday's semi between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in Sunday's showpiece at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah. Germany international Kroos caught Valencia's Jaume Domenech out to open the scoring in the 15th minute, curling a cross towards goal while the keeper was still organising his defence and the ball flew over the line before Domenech could recover. The soft manner of the goal appeared to hit Valencia hard after an even start to the game and Isco put Real further ahead by volleying home in the 39th minute after a sweeping move involving Federico Valverde and Dani Carvajal. Modric killed off Valencia's faint hopes of a second-half revival, providing a classy finish with the outside of his boot in the 65th minute to completing another incisive Real counter-attack. "We were in complete control throughout the game, we came out with the intention of getting hold of the ball, that's what we did and our plan worked perfectly," Real midfielder Casemiro told reporters. The 62,000-capacity arena was around two-thirds full for the first game of the competition, which used to be a two-legged season curtain raiser between the Spanish league champions and the Cup winners but has been given a radical facelift. Spanish soccer federation chief Luis Rubiales spearheaded the changes to the format, increasing the number of teams to four and signing a three-year deal to move it to Saudi Arabia which media reports say is worth 40 million euros annually.

Supercopa: Quick-thinking Kroos helps Real to final

Midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-arturo-vidals-late-strike-ensure-barcelona-go-past-bottom-placed-leganes-264136">Arturo&nbsp;Vidal's</a>&nbsp;decision to sue <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-draw-as-clasico-marred-by-violence-269061&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjivPr5yenmAhWNzzgGHYhKCscQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nCe6iWq7mw4tGdCV6jpku">Barcelona</a> over a dispute about bonus payments will not&nbsp;affect&nbsp;his standing in the&nbsp;team, coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-retirement-date-not-far-away-warns-valverde-266797">Ernesto&nbsp;Valverde</a>&nbsp;said.

The Chilean’s lawyers have filed a complaint to Spain’s player’s union (AFE) citing an unpaid bonus of 2.4 million euros (2.05 million pounds).

"In contractual situations, there's always a difference of opinion and the issue will be resolved internally,"&nbsp;Valverde&nbsp;told a news conference ahead of&nbsp;Barca's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">La Liga</a> match at Espanyol on Saturday.

"We all know Arturo here, he is the same as always and that's that, I don't see any problem. I don't think this will have any impact on the pitch and that's all I'm concerned with. He's training well at the moment."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/teenager-fati-makes-history-as-barcelona-knock-inter-out-of-champions-league-267646">Barca</a>&nbsp;has declined to comment on the complaint, while Vidal said it is “unfair” he has not received all of the 4.1 million euros his people believe he is owed in total in appearance bonuses.

The complaint came a month after Vidal said he would look to leave the club if he did not get more playing time.

The former Juventus and Bayern Munich midfielder has started only four La Liga games this season but could be set for a bigger role after Arthur Melo was ruled out for three more weeks with a groin injury and Carles Alena joined Real Betis on loan.

Barca&nbsp;holds a two-point lead over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Real Madrid</a> at the top of the standings and faces an Espanyol side who are bottom of La Liga but will be playing their first game under new coach Abelardo Fernandez.

Valverde&nbsp;added that goalkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/teenager-fati-makes-history-as-barcelona-knock-inter-out-of-champions-league-267646">Marc-Andre ter Stegen</a> will miss the Espanyol game with a knee problem and was also doubtful for next Thursday's Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia.

Barca&nbsp;will meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-iniestas-kobe-win-emperors-cup-in-national-stadium-opener-271652">Atletico Madrid</a> in Jeddah for a place in the Jan. 12 final&nbsp;against&nbsp;Valencia or Real Madrid.

Midfielder Arturo Vidal's decision to sue Barcelona over a dispute about bonus payments will not affect his standing in the team, coach Ernesto Valverde said. The Chilean’s lawyers have filed a complaint to Spain’s player’s union (AFE) citing an unpaid bonus of 2.

Midfielder Arturo Vidal's decision to sue Barcelona over a dispute about bonus payments will not affect his standing in the team, coach Ernesto Valverde said. The Chilean’s lawyers have filed a complaint to Spain’s player’s union (AFE) citing an unpaid bonus of 2.4 million euros (2.05 million pounds). "In contractual situations, there's always a difference of opinion and the issue will be resolved internally," Valverde told a news conference ahead of Barca's La Liga match at Espanyol on Saturday. "We all know Arturo here, he is the same as always and that's that, I don't see any problem. I don't think this will have any impact on the pitch and that's all I'm concerned with. He's training well at the moment." Barca has declined to comment on the complaint, while Vidal said it is “unfair” he has not received all of the 4.1 million euros his people believe he is owed in total in appearance bonuses. The complaint came a month after Vidal said he would look to leave the club if he did not get more playing time. The former Juventus and Bayern Munich midfielder has started only four La Liga games this season but could be set for a bigger role after Arthur Melo was ruled out for three more weeks with a groin injury and Carles Alena joined Real Betis on loan. Barca holds a two-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of the standings and faces an Espanyol side who are bottom of La Liga but will be playing their first game under new coach Abelardo Fernandez. Valverde added that goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen will miss the Espanyol game with a knee problem and was also doubtful for next Thursday's Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia. Barca will meet Atletico Madrid in Jeddah for a place in the Jan. 12 final against Valencia or Real Madrid.

Vidal's lawsuit against Barca won't affect status in team: Valverde

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/napoli-sack-coach-ancelotti-after-reaching-champions-league-last-16-267631">Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti</a>&nbsp;to take up the role at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Merseyside club</a>, the Italian said on Monday.

Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Chelsea</a> in England, left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Napoli</a> this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a>, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-to-compete-manchester-united-in-league-cup-semi-finals-derby-269097">Duncan Ferguson</a>, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday.

"The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me."

Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Real Madrid</a>, outlined his long-term plan to get&nbsp;Everton&nbsp;playing&nbsp;football&nbsp;that would delight the club's supporters.

"We want to try and&nbsp;play&nbsp;attractive&nbsp;football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League.

"I have my idea of this team and squad.&nbsp;I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters.

"They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus.&nbsp;It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly."

Ancelotti&nbsp;confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the&nbsp;players, saying he had done the same at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a> with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane.

"Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the&nbsp;players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me.

"Duncan has done a great job, the&nbsp;players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal."

Everton&nbsp;host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a> on Thursday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday. Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed Chelsea in England, left Napoli this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone. Everton, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss Duncan Ferguson, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday. "The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough," Ancelotti told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me." Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and Real Madrid, outlined his long-term plan to get Everton playing football that would delight the club's supporters. "We want to try and play attractive football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League. "I have my idea of this team and squad. I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters. "They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus. It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly." Ancelotti confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the players, saying he had done the same at Paris St Germain with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane. "Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant," Ancelotti said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me. "Duncan has done a great job, the players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal." Everton host Burnley on Thursday.

We want to try and play attractive football: Carlo Ancelotti on Everton

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

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

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

Barcelona, Real Madrid draw as Clasico marred by violence

After the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-el-clasico-sans-lionel-messi-cristiano-ronaldo-light-up-camp-nou-173983">El Clasico</a> match between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-crash-to-defeat-at-levante-after-second-half-collapse-259630">Barcelona</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Real Madrid</a> ended as a goalless draw, protesters clashed with police outside the Camp Nou.

Clashes began between police and protesters outside the ground as demonstrations continued surrounding the Catalan separatist movement, with several arrests and reports of injuries, Goal.com reported.

Nine people have been arrested for throwing objects at law enforcement officials.

The match between the two rivals was originally set for October 26, but the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-back-out-of-next-months-la-liga-miami-match-183117"> Spanish FA </a>decided to push back kick-off by two months after fierce protests in Barcelona regarding prison sentences handed down to several key figures in the Catalan separatist movement.

As the game neared its conclusion, an announcement was made over the Camp Nou loudspeaker for fans to avoid certain exits, as fires had already been set by demonstrators outside the ground.

When the final whistle was blown, clashes between protesters and police intensified. Reports stated that masked protesters set trash bins on fire and threw rocks and glass bottles at police.

The second Clasico of the season is scheduled for March 1 and will take place at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.

After the El Clasico match between Barcelona and Real Madrid ended as a goalless draw, protesters clashed with police outside the Camp Nou. Clashes began between police and protesters outside the ground as demonstrations continued surrounding the Catalan separatist movement, with several arrests and reports of injuries, Goal.

After the El Clasico match between Barcelona and Real Madrid ended as a goalless draw, protesters clashed with police outside the Camp Nou. Clashes began between police and protesters outside the ground as demonstrations continued surrounding the Catalan separatist movement, with several arrests and reports of injuries, Goal.com reported. Nine people have been arrested for throwing objects at law enforcement officials. The match between the two rivals was originally set for October 26, but the Spanish FA decided to push back kick-off by two months after fierce protests in Barcelona regarding prison sentences handed down to several key figures in the Catalan separatist movement. As the game neared its conclusion, an announcement was made over the Camp Nou loudspeaker for fans to avoid certain exits, as fires had already been set by demonstrators outside the ground. When the final whistle was blown, clashes between protesters and police intensified. Reports stated that masked protesters set trash bins on fire and threw rocks and glass bottles at police. The second Clasico of the season is scheduled for March 1 and will take place at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.

El Clasico turns voilent as police and fans clash outside Camp Nou

By Mallika Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/semi-finalists-of-uefa-champions-league-211419">UEFA Champions League</a> record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-stroll-into-champions-league-knockouts-267845">Atletico Madrid</a> procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-part-company-with-kovac-259760"> Bayern Munich</a> became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Champions League 2019-20 now gears up for the Final 16 Draw which is set to take place at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, on Monday 16 December and is to determine the match fixtures for the next year.&nbsp;

The draw that is to be live-streamed on the UEFA website will feature all the seeded teams (group winners) and the unseeded teams (group runners-up) who are to be placed in separate pots.&nbsp;

Seeded teams:&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain (FRA: Group A)

Bayern München (GER: Group B)

Manchester City (ENG: Group C)

Juventus (ITA: Group D)

Liverpool (ENG, holders: Group E)

Barcelona (ESP: Group F)

Leipzig (GER: Group G)

Valencia (ESP: Group H)

Unseeded teams:

Real Madrid (ESP: Group A)

Tottenham Hotspur (ENG: Group B)

Atalanta (ITA: Group C)

Atlético (ESP: Group D)

Napoli (ITA: Group E)

Dortmund (GER: Group F)

Lyon (FRA: Group G)

Chelsea (ENG: Group H)

In Pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-league-gears-up-for-final-16-draw-after-record-breaking-group-stage-268079">Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record-breaking group stage</a>

The seeded teams are to play at home grounds in the second leg. No team can play a club from their UEFA Champions League group or a side who plays from the same national league. Further restrictions are to be confirmed before the draw.&nbsp;

Four Premier League teams have qualified into the Final 16 with Liverpool (Titleholders) and Manchester City (English Champions) finishing at the top of their groups and Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspurs qualifying as runner ups from their respective groups.&nbsp;

Here are the five potential opponents for each team that they can be drawn against for the next round:&nbsp;

Liverpool: Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta, Borussia Dortmund, Lyon.

Manchester City: Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Napoli, Lyon.

Chelsea: Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, Bayern Munich.Tottenham Tottenham Hotspurs: Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, Valencia.

Other European powerhouses could each potentially face the following:&nbsp;

Barcelona: Atalanta, Chelsea, Lyon, Napoli, Tottenham&nbsp;

Bayern Munich: Atletico Madrid, Atalanta, Chelsea, Lyon, Napoli, Real Madrid

Juventus: Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, Lyon, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur

Leipzig: Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Napoli, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain: Atalanta, Atlético Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur

Valencia: Atalanta, Borussia Dortmund, Lyon, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur

Atalanta: Barcelona, Bayern, Leipzig, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia

Atletico Madrid: Bayern, Leipzig, Liverpool, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain

Dortmund: Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia

Lyon: Barcelona, Bayern, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Valencia

Napoli: Barcelona, Bayern, Leipzig, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia

Real Madrid: Bayern, Juventus, Leipzig, Liverpool, Manchester City

The first legs of the knockout stage are scheduled for 18, 19, 25 and 26 February, with the second legs on 10, 11, 17 and 18 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET.&nbsp;

The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 20 March, with all matches being played in home and away format, except the Final which is to be played in Istanbul, Turkey on May 30, 2020.

By Mallika Singh UEFA Champions League record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with Atletico Madrid procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as Bayern Munich became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches.

By Mallika Singh UEFA Champions League record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with Atletico Madrid procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as Bayern Munich became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches. Champions League 2019-20 now gears up for the Final 16 Draw which is set to take place at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, on Monday 16 December and is to determine the match fixtures for the next year. The draw that is to be live-streamed on the UEFA website will feature all the seeded teams (group winners) and the unseeded teams (group runners-up) who are to be placed in separate pots. Seeded teams: Paris Saint-Germain (FRA: Group A) Bayern München (GER: Group B) Manchester City (ENG: Group C) Juventus (ITA: Group D) Liverpool (ENG, holders: Group E) Barcelona (ESP: Group F) Leipzig (GER: Group G) Valencia (ESP: Group H) Unseeded teams: Real Madrid (ESP: Group A) Tottenham Hotspur (ENG: Group B) Atalanta (ITA: Group C) Atlético (ESP: Group D) Napoli (ITA: Group E) Dortmund (GER: Group F) Lyon (FRA: Group G) Chelsea (ENG: Group H) In Pictures: Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record-breaking group stage The seeded teams are to play at home grounds in the second leg. No team can play a club from their UEFA Champions League group or a side who plays from the same national league. Further restrictions are to be confirmed before the draw. Four Premier League teams have qualified into the Final 16 with Liverpool (Titleholders) and Manchester City (English Champions) finishing at the top of their groups and Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspurs qualifying as runner ups from their respective groups. Here are the five potential opponents for each team that they can be drawn against for the next round: Liverpool: Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta, Borussia Dortmund, Lyon. Manchester City: Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Napoli, Lyon. Chelsea: Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, Bayern Munich.Tottenham Tottenham Hotspurs: Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Barcelona, RB Leipzig, Valencia. Other European powerhouses could each potentially face the following: Barcelona: Atalanta, Chelsea, Lyon, Napoli, Tottenham Bayern Munich: Atletico Madrid, Atalanta, Chelsea, Lyon, Napoli, Real Madrid Juventus: Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, Lyon, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur Leipzig: Atalanta, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Napoli, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur Paris Saint-Germain: Atalanta, Atlético Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur Valencia: Atalanta, Borussia Dortmund, Lyon, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur Atalanta: Barcelona, Bayern, Leipzig, Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia Atletico Madrid: Bayern, Leipzig, Liverpool, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain Dortmund: Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia Lyon: Barcelona, Bayern, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City, Valencia Napoli: Barcelona, Bayern, Leipzig, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Valencia Real Madrid: Bayern, Juventus, Leipzig, Liverpool, Manchester City The first legs of the knockout stage are scheduled for 18, 19, 25 and 26 February, with the second legs on 10, 11, 17 and 18 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET. The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 20 March, with all matches being played in home and away format, except the Final which is to be played in Istanbul, Turkey on May 30, 2020.

Champions League Final 16 Draw: Date, rules, possible scenarios for English teams and all you need to know

UEFA announced the&nbsp;full draw for the Champions League last 16 on Monday after the record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-stroll-into-champions-league-knockouts-267845">Atletico Madrid</a>&nbsp;procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-part-company-with-kovac-259760">&nbsp;Bayern Munich</a>&nbsp;became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Draw was&nbsp;live-streamed on the UEFA website from&nbsp;UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland and&nbsp;determine the match fixtures for the next year.

Liverpool will return to the scene of their 2019 Champions League triumph after they were drawn against Atletico Madrid in the last 16 of the competition on Monday.

The two-legged tie which includes one fixture at Atletico's Wanda Metropolitano, where Jurgen Klopp's men lifted the trophy in June and another at Anfield will be one of the highlights of the opening knockout stage.

Another will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Real Madrid</a>'s clash with reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, who are trying to win the European crown for the first time.

Neymar's Paris Saint-Germain, who have fallen at the last 16 stage in the last three seasons, were pitted against Borussia Dortmund while Frank Lampard's youthful Chelsea face European masters Bayern Munich.

Last season's beaten finalists Tottenham, now led by Jose Mourinho, must beat German side Leipzig to reach the quarter-finals and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldo-and-higuain-on-target-as-juventus-beat-leverkusen-2-0-267848">Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus</a> face France's other representatives, Lyon.

Barcelona will play Napoli and surprise Italian qualifiers Atalanta were drawn against Valencia.

Here is the full draw for the Champions League last 16:

Borussia Dortmund (GER) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)&nbsp;

Real Madrid (ESP) v Manchester City (ENG)

Atalanta (ITA) v Valencia (ESP)

Atletico Madrid (ESP) v Liverpool (ENG)&nbsp;

Chelsea (ENG) v Bayern Munich (GER)

Lyon (FRA)&nbsp;v Juventus (ITA)

Tottenham Hotspur (ENG) v Leipzig (GER)

Napoli (ITA)&nbsp;v Barcelona (ESP)&nbsp;

The first legs of the knockout stage are scheduled for 18, 19, 25 and 26 February, with the second legs on 10, 11, 17 and 18 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET.&nbsp;

The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 20 March, with all matches being played in home and away format, except the Final which is to be played in Istanbul, Turkey on May 30, 2020.

&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

UEFA announced the full draw for the Champions League last 16 on Monday after the record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with Atletico Madrid procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as Bayern Munich became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches.

UEFA announced the full draw for the Champions League last 16 on Monday after the record-breaking three months long group stage ended on Wednesday night with Atletico Madrid procuring the last spot in the Final 16 as Bayern Munich became the first German club ever to emerge victorious in all of their six group matches. The Draw was live-streamed on the UEFA website from UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland and determine the match fixtures for the next year. Liverpool will return to the scene of their 2019 Champions League triumph after they were drawn against Atletico Madrid in the last 16 of the competition on Monday. The two-legged tie which includes one fixture at Atletico's Wanda Metropolitano, where Jurgen Klopp's men lifted the trophy in June and another at Anfield will be one of the highlights of the opening knockout stage. Another will be Real Madrid's clash with reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, who are trying to win the European crown for the first time. Neymar's Paris Saint-Germain, who have fallen at the last 16 stage in the last three seasons, were pitted against Borussia Dortmund while Frank Lampard's youthful Chelsea face European masters Bayern Munich. Last season's beaten finalists Tottenham, now led by Jose Mourinho, must beat German side Leipzig to reach the quarter-finals and Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus face France's other representatives, Lyon. Barcelona will play Napoli and surprise Italian qualifiers Atalanta were drawn against Valencia. Here is the full draw for the Champions League last 16: Borussia Dortmund (GER) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) Real Madrid (ESP) v Manchester City (ENG) Atalanta (ITA) v Valencia (ESP) Atletico Madrid (ESP) v Liverpool (ENG) Chelsea (ENG) v Bayern Munich (GER) Lyon (FRA) v Juventus (ITA) Tottenham Hotspur (ENG) v Leipzig (GER) Napoli (ITA) v Barcelona (ESP) The first legs of the knockout stage are scheduled for 18, 19, 25 and 26 February, with the second legs on 10, 11, 17 and 18 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET. The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 20 March, with all matches being played in home and away format, except the Final which is to be played in Istanbul, Turkey on May 30, 2020. (With inputs from AFP)

Champions League last 16 fixtures: Liverpool to clash with Atletico Madrid; City to face Real Madrid

Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record breaking group stage

Chelsea manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Frank&nbsp;Lampard&nbsp;</a>says he hopes to sign a forward in&nbsp;January&nbsp;to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Real Madrid</a> in the close season.

Chelsea was cleared to sign players in the next transfer window last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport halved a ban for breaching rules on the international transfer and registration of players under 18.

"I will look at all areas of the team,"&nbsp;Lampard&nbsp;told reporters after his team reached the last 16 of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-in-eye-of-storm-against-salzburg-267519">Champions League</a> by beating Lille 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

"But I think it was quite clear in the summer that you lose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-go-top-with-gutsy-win-against-alaves-265514">Eden Hazard</a>, who was a huge part of scoring or creating our goals last season and the season before that, the high level of player he is.

"We've found ways as a team where we can still be competitive but going forward if we're looking at if we can get even better in forwarding areas to help competition then I think we'll always look at that."

Lampard&nbsp;did not think that signing another striker might affect the confidence of younger players like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-abraham-return-helps-chelsea-beat-villa-266321">Tammy Abraham</a>, who has scored 13 goals for the club this season.

"I don't think it is a concern at all because they are here to stay, I truly believe in that," he added. "I believe in the quality of all the young players here."

Chelsea's&nbsp;next match is at home against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says he hopes to sign a forward in January to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to Real Madrid in the close season.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says he hopes to sign a forward in January to make up for the loss of Belgian Eden Hazard, who moved to Real Madrid in the close season. Chelsea was cleared to sign players in the next transfer window last week after the Court of Arbitration for Sport halved a ban for breaching rules on the international transfer and registration of players under 18. "I will look at all areas of the team," Lampard told reporters after his team reached the last 16 of the Champions League by beating Lille 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday. "But I think it was quite clear in the summer that you lose Eden Hazard, who was a huge part of scoring or creating our goals last season and the season before that, the high level of player he is. "We've found ways as a team where we can still be competitive but going forward if we're looking at if we can get even better in forwarding areas to help competition then I think we'll always look at that." Lampard did not think that signing another striker might affect the confidence of younger players like Tammy Abraham, who has scored 13 goals for the club this season. "I don't think it is a concern at all because they are here to stay, I truly believe in that," he added. "I believe in the quality of all the young players here." Chelsea's next match is at home against Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.

Lampard keen to strengthen Chelsea's attack in January

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Gareth Bale</a> "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said.

Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order'.

He was booed by real fans during last month's match against Real Sociedad.

The 30-year-old forward was also involved in a tense stand-off with coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-to-be-the-player-we-know-he-is-zinedine-zidane-245111">Zinedine Zidane</a> in the off-season, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning was scrapped.

"He's not ecstatic," Bale's agent Jonathan Barnett told the BBC's Euro Leagues Podcast. "He has got a contract and as long as he is a Real Madrid player he will play at 100 per cent&nbsp;- and do very well.

"He has never asked to leave. If the right opportunity came along for him and it's something he wants to do we have to have a chat with the president of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-go-top-with-gutsy-win-against-alaves-265514">Real Madrid</a> and see where we are."

Bale was absent from training on Thursday and Spanish newspaper Marca said he would miss Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol as well as Wednesday's Champions League game at Club Bruges due to a hamstring strain.

Gareth Bale "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said. Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales.

Gareth Bale "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said. Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order'. He was booed by real fans during last month's match against Real Sociedad. The 30-year-old forward was also involved in a tense stand-off with coach Zinedine Zidane in the off-season, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning was scrapped. "He's not ecstatic," Bale's agent Jonathan Barnett told the BBC's Euro Leagues Podcast. "He has got a contract and as long as he is a Real Madrid player he will play at 100 per cent - and do very well. "He has never asked to leave. If the right opportunity came along for him and it's something he wants to do we have to have a chat with the president of Real Madrid and see where we are." Bale was absent from training on Thursday and Spanish newspaper Marca said he would miss Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol as well as Wednesday's Champions League game at Club Bruges due to a hamstring strain.

Gareth Bale has never asked to leave Real Madrid, says agent

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-and-rapinoe-expected-to-take-ballon-dor-honours-265502">Lionel Messi</a> underlined his ability to make the difference on big occasions by hitting a sensational late goal to give Barcelona a 1-0 win at title rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday as the champions reclaimed top spot in La Liga from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-go-top-with-gutsy-win-against-alaves-265514">Real Madrid</a>.

The Argentine, playing his 701st game for Barca, settled a pulsating and tense encounter in the 86th minute, galloping down the right wing and cutting inside before playing a one-two with Luis Suarez and guiding the ball into the bottom corner.

It was Messi's 30th goal in 39 competitive games against Atletico and inflicted a first home defeat on Diego Simeone's side since they were beaten by Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano in February.

"Whenever you have a game like this which is really tight and really tough, being able to count on Messi is always an advantage," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.

Messi's strike saw Barca return to the top of the standings with 31 points after 14 games, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference, while Atletico were left in sixth spot on 25 points, having played one match more than the two pacesetters.

Atleti and Barca hit the woodwork and visiting keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen made two stunning saves, while the home side felt Gerard Pique should have been shown a second yellow card in the second half for a late tackle on Alvaro Morata.

"We feel very hard done by," said Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez. "We played superbly and Barcelona had hardly any chances but when Messi appears he is capable of doing anything and he made it look so easy, that's why he is the best."

Atleti were also fortunate not to have a player sent off when Vitolo slammed into Pique's knee with a fierce challenge a few minutes later after picking up an earlier booking.

Antoine Griezmann got a hostile reception from the home fans in his first game against his old side since a bitter 120 million euro ($132.26 million) transfer to Barca in the close season and had a poor game, firing his one chance over the bar.

Atleti were under pressure after one win in their previous six games and they made a flying start, nearly going ahead when Barca's Junior Firpo deflected a cross against the far post.

Soon after Ter Stegen pulled off a marvellous save by using his body to thwart Mario Hermoso from point-blank range.

The German then demonstrated outstanding reflexes by swooping to the ground to beat away a header from Morata, while he watched a shot from Hector Herrera fly past the post.

Barca were cagey in their approach for large chunks of the game although Pique hit the bar with a header before the break and Ivan Rakitic scuffed a shot straight at keeper Jan Oblak.

Roared on by 67,000 fans, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-atletico-madrid-held-at-alaves-after-perez-thunderbolt-258742">Atletico</a> looked more likely to snatch a winner but yet again Messi proved the difference.

The Argentine clinched the 2015 La Liga title for Barca with a strike against Atletico and also hit winning goals against them in pivotal games in the 2016/17 and 2017/18 seasons.

His goal here could also prove crucial in what looks set to be a thrilling two-horse race between Barca and Real, who meet on December&nbsp;18 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-el-clasico-to-be-played-on-december-18-spanish-football-federation-257705">'Clasico' at the Camp Nou</a>.

"We suffered a little but games like these are the ones which can win you the title," added Barca's Sergi Roberto, who also credited his side's goalkeeper for the win.

"Marc saved two clear goals and Messi decided the game, but this was a triumph for the entire team," he added.

Lionel Messi underlined his ability to make the difference on big occasions by hitting a sensational late goal to give Barcelona a 1-0 win at title rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday as the champions reclaimed top spot in La Liga from Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi underlined his ability to make the difference on big occasions by hitting a sensational late goal to give Barcelona a 1-0 win at title rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday as the champions reclaimed top spot in La Liga from Real Madrid. The Argentine, playing his 701st game for Barca, settled a pulsating and tense encounter in the 86th minute, galloping down the right wing and cutting inside before playing a one-two with Luis Suarez and guiding the ball into the bottom corner. It was Messi's 30th goal in 39 competitive games against Atletico and inflicted a first home defeat on Diego Simeone's side since they were beaten by Real Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano in February. "Whenever you have a game like this which is really tight and really tough, being able to count on Messi is always an advantage," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Messi's strike saw Barca return to the top of the standings with 31 points after 14 games, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference, while Atletico were left in sixth spot on 25 points, having played one match more than the two pacesetters. Atleti and Barca hit the woodwork and visiting keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen made two stunning saves, while the home side felt Gerard Pique should have been shown a second yellow card in the second half for a late tackle on Alvaro Morata. "We feel very hard done by," said Atletico midfielder Saul Niguez. "We played superbly and Barcelona had hardly any chances but when Messi appears he is capable of doing anything and he made it look so easy, that's why he is the best." Atleti were also fortunate not to have a player sent off when Vitolo slammed into Pique's knee with a fierce challenge a few minutes later after picking up an earlier booking. Antoine Griezmann got a hostile reception from the home fans in his first game against his old side since a bitter 120 million euro ($132.26 million) transfer to Barca in the close season and had a poor game, firing his one chance over the bar. Atleti were under pressure after one win in their previous six games and they made a flying start, nearly going ahead when Barca's Junior Firpo deflected a cross against the far post. Soon after Ter Stegen pulled off a marvellous save by using his body to thwart Mario Hermoso from point-blank range. The German then demonstrated outstanding reflexes by swooping to the ground to beat away a header from Morata, while he watched a shot from Hector Herrera fly past the post. Barca were cagey in their approach for large chunks of the game although Pique hit the bar with a header before the break and Ivan Rakitic scuffed a shot straight at keeper Jan Oblak. Roared on by 67,000 fans, Atletico looked more likely to snatch a winner but yet again Messi proved the difference. The Argentine clinched the 2015 La Liga title for Barca with a strike against Atletico and also hit winning goals against them in pivotal games in the 2016/17 and 2017/18 seasons. His goal here could also prove crucial in what looks set to be a thrilling two-horse race between Barca and Real, who meet on December 18 in the 'Clasico' at the Camp Nou. "We suffered a little but games like these are the ones which can win you the title," added Barca's Sergi Roberto, who also credited his side's goalkeeper for the win. "Marc saved two clear goals and Messi decided the game, but this was a triumph for the entire team," he added.

La Liga: Lionel Messi sinks Atletico as Barcelona return to the top

Kylian Mbappe instigated a dramatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-jurgen-klopp-confident-of-mohamed-salah-fitness-ahead-of-clash-against-napoli-264732">Champions League comeback </a>on Tuesday as Paris Saint-Germain scored twice in two minutes to rescue a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid and secure first place in Group A.

Madrid dominated the majority of a pulsating contest at the Santiago Bernabeu and looked to have sewn up an impressive victory when Karim Benzema scored his second goal in the 79th minute.

But PSG pulled off an unlikely turnaround as Mbappe capitalised on a defensive mix-up to pull one back in the 81st minute before Pablo Sarabia, once of Real, drove into the top corner second later.

"Real were better for long periods," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "We were lucky but that's not a crime."

Gareth Bale, who came on as a substitute to a mixed reception from the home fans, almost won it in injury-time when his bending free-kick struck the post.

The draw means PSG will go through as group winners while Madrid are guaranteed to finish second after Club Brugge drew 1-1 at Galatasaray in the early kick-off.

Madrid's late capitulation tarnished an excellent display that highlighted their transformation since the 3-0 thrashing at the Parc des Princes in September.

"It was a great performance," said Zinedine Zidane. "The players are not happy with the result but you have to be happy with what we have done for 80 minutes. I'd take that performance all day long."

There was also the worrying sight of Eden Hazard hobbling off with what looked like an ankle injury in the second half, with the Clasico against Barcelona only three weeks away.

"It's more than just a knock but I hope the twist is a minor one," said Zidane.

Neymar was also left on the bench by Tuchel despite recovering from a hamstring injury, only to be brought on at half-time. It was his dummy that led to Sarabia's equaliser.

"I didn't want to risk him," said Tuchel. "I prefered to be sure he could finish the match."

Zidane's press conference on Monday became another ode to Mbappe, who will reportedly be Madrid's number one target next summer.

The Frenchman, in his 100th game for PSG, looked like he wanted to put on a show, puffing out his chest after an early foul by Sergio Ramos and squeezing Zidane's hand as he fetched a ball from behind his back.

The threat of Mbappe hung over the match but Madrid were much the better side, slicker in their passing, faster with the ball and more aggressive in winning it back.

Their opening goal came in the 17th minute and Hazard started it, skipping between Thomas Meunier and Marquinhos before switching to the right. Isco struck Fede Valverde's pull-back against the post before Benzema showed a cool head to find the corner.

On the back foot for most of the half, PSG twice went close towards the end of it. Mbappe, slipped through by Angel Di Maria, opted to shoot when he might have squared for Mauro Icardi.

Icardi was then brought down in the area after nipping around Thibaut Courtois. Referee Artur Dias pointed to the spot and showed the goalkeeper a red card but a VAR review showed Idrissa Gueye had pushed Marcelo in the build-up.

Madrid looked to have put the game to bed when Luka Modric ghosted clear and Marcelo's cross found the deadly Benzema free at the back post.

But the celebrations had barely finished when Mbappe pulled one back, a gift as Courtois and Raphael Varane allowed Meunier's cross to slip between them, leaving the 21-year-old with an open goal.

It felt like a consolation but PSG had other ideas as a clever dummy from Neymar fooled the entire home defence and the ball cannoned out to Sarabia, who swept it into the top corner.&nbsp;

Both teams looked for a winner and PSG went close, Mbappe firing into the side-netting before Bale's bending free-kick hit the post deep into injury-time.

Kylian Mbappe instigated a dramatic Champions League comeback on Tuesday as Paris Saint-Germain scored twice in two minutes to rescue a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid and secure first place in Group A.

Kylian Mbappe instigated a dramatic Champions League comeback on Tuesday as Paris Saint-Germain scored twice in two minutes to rescue a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid and secure first place in Group A. Madrid dominated the majority of a pulsating contest at the Santiago Bernabeu and looked to have sewn up an impressive victory when Karim Benzema scored his second goal in the 79th minute. But PSG pulled off an unlikely turnaround as Mbappe capitalised on a defensive mix-up to pull one back in the 81st minute before Pablo Sarabia, once of Real, drove into the top corner second later. "Real were better for long periods," said PSG coach Thomas Tuchel. "We were lucky but that's not a crime." Gareth Bale, who came on as a substitute to a mixed reception from the home fans, almost won it in injury-time when his bending free-kick struck the post. The draw means PSG will go through as group winners while Madrid are guaranteed to finish second after Club Brugge drew 1-1 at Galatasaray in the early kick-off. Madrid's late capitulation tarnished an excellent display that highlighted their transformation since the 3-0 thrashing at the Parc des Princes in September. "It was a great performance," said Zinedine Zidane. "The players are not happy with the result but you have to be happy with what we have done for 80 minutes. I'd take that performance all day long." There was also the worrying sight of Eden Hazard hobbling off with what looked like an ankle injury in the second half, with the Clasico against Barcelona only three weeks away. "It's more than just a knock but I hope the twist is a minor one," said Zidane. Neymar was also left on the bench by Tuchel despite recovering from a hamstring injury, only to be brought on at half-time. It was his dummy that led to Sarabia's equaliser. "I didn't want to risk him," said Tuchel. "I prefered to be sure he could finish the match." Zidane's press conference on Monday became another ode to Mbappe, who will reportedly be Madrid's number one target next summer. The Frenchman, in his 100th game for PSG, looked like he wanted to put on a show, puffing out his chest after an early foul by Sergio Ramos and squeezing Zidane's hand as he fetched a ball from behind his back. The threat of Mbappe hung over the match but Madrid were much the better side, slicker in their passing, faster with the ball and more aggressive in winning it back. Their opening goal came in the 17th minute and Hazard started it, skipping between Thomas Meunier and Marquinhos before switching to the right. Isco struck Fede Valverde's pull-back against the post before Benzema showed a cool head to find the corner. On the back foot for most of the half, PSG twice went close towards the end of it. Mbappe, slipped through by Angel Di Maria, opted to shoot when he might have squared for Mauro Icardi. Icardi was then brought down in the area after nipping around Thibaut Courtois. Referee Artur Dias pointed to the spot and showed the goalkeeper a red card but a VAR review showed Idrissa Gueye had pushed Marcelo in the build-up. Madrid looked to have put the game to bed when Luka Modric ghosted clear and Marcelo's cross found the deadly Benzema free at the back post. But the celebrations had barely finished when Mbappe pulled one back, a gift as Courtois and Raphael Varane allowed Meunier's cross to slip between them, leaving the 21-year-old with an open goal. It felt like a consolation but PSG had other ideas as a clever dummy from Neymar fooled the entire home defence and the ball cannoned out to Sarabia, who swept it into the top corner. Both teams looked for a winner and PSG went close, Mbappe firing into the side-netting before Bale's bending free-kick hit the post deep into injury-time.

Champions League: Mbappe stars as PSG snatch draw against Real Madrid

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