Real Madrid on Thursday announced that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his contract as the head coach of Los Blancos as the Frenchman brings an end to his second stint with the Spanish giants as the manager. <o:p></o:p>

Real Madrid officially announced the development after Zidane reached the club’s training center early in the morning. Zidane leaves Real Madrid after a disappointing campaign with the 13-time European champions, who lost to Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final before failing to grab the opportunity to win the LaLiga. <o:p></o:p>

The Los Blancos ended the season trophyless for the first time in 11 years. <o:p></o:p>

The 1998 World Cup winner first took the helm in January 2016 and guided Real to the 2017 La Liga title and an unprecedented hat-trick of Champions League titles before abruptly quitting on May 31, 2018.<o:p></o:p>

<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:11.25pt;margin-left:
0in;background:white;-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent;box-sizing: border-box;
color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;
orphans: 2;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px">He returned in 2019, winning a second La Liga crown in 2020 and the Spanish Super Cup.&nbsp;

<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:11.25pt;margin-left:
0in;background:white;-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent;box-sizing: border-box;
color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8);font-variant-ligatures: normal;font-variant-caps: normal;
orphans: 2;widows: 2;-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px;text-decoration-thickness: initial;
text-decoration-style: initial;text-decoration-color: initial;word-spacing:
0px"><o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-at-least-70-racial-slurs-marcus-rashford-subjected-to-online-abuse-after-europa-league-final-defeat-387732" hreflang="en">Football: 'At least 70 racial slurs' - Marcus Rashford subjected to online abuse after Europa League final defeat</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid full statement on Zinedine Zidane (translated to English from Spanish):</h2>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p><img alt="Zidane" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a5fd7944-f8cf-47a4-a94c-2842a016c62a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Zidane.JPG" /></o:p></h2>

Real Madrid CF announces that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his current stage as coach of our club.<o:p></o:p>

It is now time to respect his decision and show him our appreciation for his professionalism, dedication and passion in all these years, and for what his figure represents for Real Madrid.<o:p></o:p>

Zidane is one of the great myths of Real Madrid and his legend goes beyond what he has been as a coach and player of our club.<o:p></o:p>

He knows that he is at the heart of Real Madrid and that Real Madrid is and will always be his home.<o:p></o:p>

Real Madrid on Thursday announced that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his contract as the head coach of Los Blancos as the Frenchman brings an end to his second stint with the Spanish giants as the manager.

Real Madrid on Thursday announced that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his contract as the head coach of Los Blancos as the Frenchman brings an end to his second stint with the Spanish giants as the manager. Real Madrid officially announced the development after Zidane reached the club’s training center early in the morning. Zidane leaves Real Madrid after a disappointing campaign with the 13-time European champions, who lost to Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final before failing to grab the opportunity to win the LaLiga. The Los Blancos ended the season trophyless for the first time in 11 years. The 1998 World Cup winner first took the helm in January 2016 and guided Real to the 2017 La Liga title and an unprecedented hat-trick of Champions League titles before abruptly quitting on May 31, 2018. He returned in 2019, winning a second La Liga crown in 2020 and the Spanish Super Cup. ALSO READ: Football: 'At least 70 racial slurs' - Marcus Rashford subjected to online abuse after Europa League final defeat Real Madrid full statement on Zinedine Zidane (translated to English from Spanish): Real Madrid CF announces that Zinedine Zidane has decided to end his current stage as coach of our club. It is now time to respect his decision and show him our appreciation for his professionalism, dedication and passion in all these years, and for what his figure represents for Real Madrid. Zidane is one of the great myths of Real Madrid and his legend goes beyond what he has been as a coach and player of our club. He knows that he is at the heart of Real Madrid and that Real Madrid is and will always be his home.

Football: Zinedine Zidane leaves Real Madrid after disappointing 2020-21 campaign

Atletico Madrid's La Liga title triumph had many protagonists but their two standout players were undoubtedly Luis Suarez and Marcos Llorente, who fell into their laps after being spurned by rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid.

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Suarez, who joined from Barca last summer for around 6 million euros, finished Atletico's top scorer with 21 goals and was decisive right until the end, grabbing the title-clinching strike in the 2-1 win at Real Valladolid on Saturday as well as firing in an 88th-minute winner against Osasuna last week.

Llorente, meanwhile, joined Atletico the previous year after being cast off by boyhood club Real. He got off to a slow start at his new side before transforming himself from a holding midfielder into an explosive winger.

The Spaniard made a name for himself in his new role last year by scoring twice to knock Liverpool out of the Champions League and has gone from strength to strength, scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists in the title-winning campaign.

"This season has been a real struggle but now's the time to celebrate," Llorente said on Saturday.

Between them, Llorente and Suarez scored almost half of the 67 league goals which saw Atletico become champions for the first time since 2014.

Llorente's great uncle Paco Gento was one of Real Madrid's greatest ever players, while his father and grandfather also played for the club.

Real, who finished two points behind Atletico, may now be kicking themselves at letting such a talented player join their neighbours and help lead them to glory at their own expense.

But at least they managed to pocket around 40 million euros for his transfer, and they have well covered in the holding midfield role thanks to the ever-reliable Casemiro.

Barca, however, may be feeling particularly sore about parting ways with Suarez, who was forced out of the Camp Nou last summer as part of a clearout of big earners over the age of 30 which also led to Arturo Vidal and Ivan Rakitic leaving.

MESSI PROTESTS

The Uruguayan's departure came despite the protests of Lionel Messi, who is close friends with Suarez and fiercely criticised the move.

Suarez, who became Barca's third-highest scorer with an astounding 198 goals and won four league titles there, recalled his pain at being pushed out by his former club.

"It was a difficult situation after being mistreated like that, but Atletico opened a door to me so I could keep showing I'm good enough, they put their faith in me," he said in an emotional post-match interview.

"This is very special because of how much I suffered. My statistics show I've won five league titles in seven years."

Atletico coach Diego Simeone added: "Suarez is a competitive animal, a born goalscorer.

"He's a defiant guy who had just left an extraordinary club in Barcelona but he said 'I want to continue at the top' and joined a club which lives football just like he does."

Atletico Madrid's La Liga title triumph had many protagonists but their two standout players were undoubtedly Luis Suarez and Marcos Llorente, who fell into their laps after being spurned by rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Atletico Madrid's La Liga title triumph had many protagonists but their two standout players were undoubtedly Luis Suarez and Marcos Llorente, who fell into their laps after being spurned by rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid. ALSO READ: Football: Atletico Madrid clinch La Liga title thanks to Suarez winner Suarez, who joined from Barca last summer for around 6 million euros, finished Atletico's top scorer with 21 goals and was decisive right until the end, grabbing the title-clinching strike in the 2-1 win at Real Valladolid on Saturday as well as firing in an 88th-minute winner against Osasuna last week. Llorente, meanwhile, joined Atletico the previous year after being cast off by boyhood club Real. He got off to a slow start at his new side before transforming himself from a holding midfielder into an explosive winger. The Spaniard made a name for himself in his new role last year by scoring twice to knock Liverpool out of the Champions League and has gone from strength to strength, scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists in the title-winning campaign. "This season has been a real struggle but now's the time to celebrate," Llorente said on Saturday. Between them, Llorente and Suarez scored almost half of the 67 league goals which saw Atletico become champions for the first time since 2014. Llorente's great uncle Paco Gento was one of Real Madrid's greatest ever players, while his father and grandfather also played for the club. Real, who finished two points behind Atletico, may now be kicking themselves at letting such a talented player join their neighbours and help lead them to glory at their own expense. But at least they managed to pocket around 40 million euros for his transfer, and they have well covered in the holding midfield role thanks to the ever-reliable Casemiro. Barca, however, may be feeling particularly sore about parting ways with Suarez, who was forced out of the Camp Nou last summer as part of a clearout of big earners over the age of 30 which also led to Arturo Vidal and Ivan Rakitic leaving. MESSI PROTESTS The Uruguayan's departure came despite the protests of Lionel Messi, who is close friends with Suarez and fiercely criticised the move. Suarez, who became Barca's third-highest scorer with an astounding 198 goals and won four league titles there, recalled his pain at being pushed out by his former club. "It was a difficult situation after being mistreated like that, but Atletico opened a door to me so I could keep showing I'm good enough, they put their faith in me," he said in an emotional post-match interview. "This is very special because of how much I suffered. My statistics show I've won five league titles in seven years." Atletico coach Diego Simeone added: "Suarez is a competitive animal, a born goalscorer. "He's a defiant guy who had just left an extraordinary club in Barcelona but he said 'I want to continue at the top' and joined a club which lives football just like he does."

Football: Barca, Real pay the price for transfer gaffes as Suarez, Llorente lead Atletico to title

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Zinedine Zidane and Co. need to win this match as they will have a shot to successfully defend their La Liga title. However, their hope also lies on relegation-threatened Valladolid who will play table-toppers Atletico Madrid.&nbsp;

Atletico need to lose this match and Real Madrid need to win in order for Los Blancos to lift their only trophy of the season.

Eden Hazard has had a nightmare of a season. The Belgian has missed most of the season due to a string of injuries but has been playing regularly.&nbsp;

“He didn’t practice with the squad and we are not going to take any risks,” Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Friday.

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos will return to the squad recovering from an injury that has kept him out since March.

Diego Simeone's Atletico have a major shot to lift the La Liga trophy for the first time since 2014, as they don't have any major setbacks.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday. ALSO READ: Football: 'Everybody loves Harry Kane': Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel Zinedine Zidane and Co.

Eden Hazard will miss Real Madrid's must-win final match of LaLiga season due to injury. The match will be played against Villarreal on Saturday. ALSO READ: Football: 'Everybody loves Harry Kane': Chelsea's manager Thomas Tuchel Zinedine Zidane and Co. need to win this match as they will have a shot to successfully defend their La Liga title. However, their hope also lies on relegation-threatened Valladolid who will play table-toppers Atletico Madrid. Atletico need to lose this match and Real Madrid need to win in order for Los Blancos to lift their only trophy of the season. Eden Hazard has had a nightmare of a season. The Belgian has missed most of the season due to a string of injuries but has been playing regularly. “He didn’t practice with the squad and we are not going to take any risks,” Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Friday. Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos will return to the squad recovering from an injury that has kept him out since March. Diego Simeone's Atletico have a major shot to lift the La Liga trophy for the first time since 2014, as they don't have any major setbacks.

Real Madrid's Eden Hazard to miss La Liga finale due to injury

Barely a week has gone by this season without Diego Simeone pronouncing his mantra of "one game at a time" and now it really rings true, with Atletico Madrid one match away from winning La Liga.

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If they beat Real Valladolid on Saturday, they will be crowned champions for the first time since 2014 and few could argue given they will have been top of the table since December.

But Real Madrid are lurking, only two points behind, and ready to dip their neck over the line at the last moment. They have not led La Liga since October 17.

Real Madrid will have to win at home against Villarreal to have any chance but the omens looks good for Zinedine Zidane's side, given their opponents may not be at full strength.

Villarreal are in a three-way battle to finish fifth and sixth, with the team that comes seventh dropping out of the Europa League and into the new and less lucrative Europa Conference League.

But Villarreal could do even better and qualify for the Champions League if they defeat Manchester United in the Europa League final, four days after their game at Valdebebas.

"We will have an eye on the Manchester United game," said Villarreal coach Unai Emery on Wednesday.

A draw for Atletico could mean the top two are tied on points but that would see the trophy returned to Real Madrid, who would sneak it on head-to-head.

In some ways, Atletico might benefit from the situation being clear. They will almost certainly have win to claim the title and can look for victory from the start.

Valladolid might have been relegated already had results gone against them last weekend but instead they are still fighting to be the one team out of three that survives.

Huesca and Elche are the others scrapping to finish 17th, with both of them two points ahead of Valladolid, the trio sandwiched between already-relegated Eibar and Getafe, who are safe.

It means only a win will give Valladolid hope, a scenario that could play into Atletico's hands if it encourages their opponents to attack, opening the spaces that were denied by the defensive approach of Osasuna, who so nearly spoiled Atletico's chances last weekend.

Luis Suarez's 88th-minute winner, which completed a stunning turnaround after Renan Lodi equalised only six minutes before, had the feeling of a pivotal moment, a dramatic twist to prove decisive in who harnesses the prize.

Yet Real Madrid's priority on Sunday was survival and they beat Athletic Bilbao at San Mames to take Atletico to the last day, when the tension will be at its highest.

Simeone admitted "anxiety exists" among his players but in 10 years in charge he has tried to expunge the fatalist tendencies that haunted the club for so long.

Real Madrid have benefitted before, when Atletico conceded in the 93rd minute in the 2014 Champions League final in Lisbon and lost in extra-time. Atletico went close in the 2016 final in Milan too, only to be beaten by Real Madrid on penalties.

Now Simeone's team are within touching distance again, the difference this time that Real Madrid have no control, their own success now depending on what happens at the Jose Zorrilla stadium, 200 kilometres away.

Win or lose, it could be Zidane's final game in charge and there are serious doubts around the future of Ronald Koeman as well, ahead of Barcelona's last match against Eibar.

Barca's disappointing end to the season means they could even surrender third place if they lose while Sevilla will hope for the chance to overcome a two-point gap when they face Alaves on Sunday.

Real Sociedad in fifth are a point ahead of both Real Betis and Villarreal, the tussle for the Europa League still alive. Betis travel to Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad are at Osasuna.

Elche host Athletic Bilbao and to stay up, they will have to better Huesca's result against Valencia at Mestalla. Valladolid must beat Atletico and hope Elche and Huesca both lose.

Barely a week has gone by this season without Diego Simeone pronouncing his mantra of "one game at a time" and now it really rings true, with Atletico Madrid one match away from winning La Liga.

Barely a week has gone by this season without Diego Simeone pronouncing his mantra of "one game at a time" and now it really rings true, with Atletico Madrid one match away from winning La Liga. ALSO READ: Football: Lewandowski poised to make Bundesliga history as Bayern welcome back fans If they beat Real Valladolid on Saturday, they will be crowned champions for the first time since 2014 and few could argue given they will have been top of the table since December. But Real Madrid are lurking, only two points behind, and ready to dip their neck over the line at the last moment. They have not led La Liga since October 17. Real Madrid will have to win at home against Villarreal to have any chance but the omens looks good for Zinedine Zidane's side, given their opponents may not be at full strength. Villarreal are in a three-way battle to finish fifth and sixth, with the team that comes seventh dropping out of the Europa League and into the new and less lucrative Europa Conference League. But Villarreal could do even better and qualify for the Champions League if they defeat Manchester United in the Europa League final, four days after their game at Valdebebas. "We will have an eye on the Manchester United game," said Villarreal coach Unai Emery on Wednesday. A draw for Atletico could mean the top two are tied on points but that would see the trophy returned to Real Madrid, who would sneak it on head-to-head. In some ways, Atletico might benefit from the situation being clear. They will almost certainly have win to claim the title and can look for victory from the start. Valladolid might have been relegated already had results gone against them last weekend but instead they are still fighting to be the one team out of three that survives. Huesca and Elche are the others scrapping to finish 17th, with both of them two points ahead of Valladolid, the trio sandwiched between already-relegated Eibar and Getafe, who are safe. It means only a win will give Valladolid hope, a scenario that could play into Atletico's hands if it encourages their opponents to attack, opening the spaces that were denied by the defensive approach of Osasuna, who so nearly spoiled Atletico's chances last weekend. Luis Suarez's 88th-minute winner, which completed a stunning turnaround after Renan Lodi equalised only six minutes before, had the feeling of a pivotal moment, a dramatic twist to prove decisive in who harnesses the prize. Yet Real Madrid's priority on Sunday was survival and they beat Athletic Bilbao at San Mames to take Atletico to the last day, when the tension will be at its highest. Simeone admitted "anxiety exists" among his players but in 10 years in charge he has tried to expunge the fatalist tendencies that haunted the club for so long. Real Madrid have benefitted before, when Atletico conceded in the 93rd minute in the 2014 Champions League final in Lisbon and lost in extra-time. Atletico went close in the 2016 final in Milan too, only to be beaten by Real Madrid on penalties. Now Simeone's team are within touching distance again, the difference this time that Real Madrid have no control, their own success now depending on what happens at the Jose Zorrilla stadium, 200 kilometres away. Win or lose, it could be Zidane's final game in charge and there are serious doubts around the future of Ronald Koeman as well, ahead of Barcelona's last match against Eibar. Barca's disappointing end to the season means they could even surrender third place if they lose while Sevilla will hope for the chance to overcome a two-point gap when they face Alaves on Sunday. Real Sociedad in fifth are a point ahead of both Real Betis and Villarreal, the tussle for the Europa League still alive. Betis travel to Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad are at Osasuna. Elche host Athletic Bilbao and to stay up, they will have to better Huesca's result against Valencia at Mestalla. Valladolid must beat Atletico and hope Elche and Huesca both lose.

Football: Atletico on cusp of La Liga glory but Real Madrid ready to pounce

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has told his players he will leave the La Liga club at the end of the season, Spanish media reported late on Saturday. 
 
Radio station Onda Cero said Zidane informed the players about his decision before last weekend`s 2-2 La Liga draw at home with Sevilla where Real missed the chance to top the table. 
 
Newspaper Marca said he addressed the team on May 8, a day before that game. 
 
Real were dumped out of the Copa del Rey by third-tier Alcoyano in January and were defeated comfortably by Chelsea in their Champions League semi-final. 
 
They trail La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid by two points with two games left and have an outside chance of retaining the title. 
 
When asked earlier on Saturday whether he would remain in charge next season, Zidane did not give any guarantees. 
 
"I don`t know what`ll happen. I`m here, we`re playing tomorrow and next week but I don`t know what happens after that because this is Real Madrid," he told a news conference ahead of the team`s next tie against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. 
 
Zidane left the club in 2018 just after winning a third consecutive Champions League crown, only to return 10 months later. He also quit the club as a player in 2006 when he retired from playing. 
 
Real host Villarreal on May 23 in the final game of the La Liga season.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has told his players he will leave the La Liga club at the end of the season, Spanish media reported late on Saturday. Radio station Onda Cero said Zidane informed the players about his decision before last weekend`s 2-2 La Liga draw at home with Sevilla where Real missed the chance to top the table.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has told his players he will leave the La Liga club at the end of the season, Spanish media reported late on Saturday. Radio station Onda Cero said Zidane informed the players about his decision before last weekend`s 2-2 La Liga draw at home with Sevilla where Real missed the chance to top the table. Newspaper Marca said he addressed the team on May 8, a day before that game. Real were dumped out of the Copa del Rey by third-tier Alcoyano in January and were defeated comfortably by Chelsea in their Champions League semi-final. They trail La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid by two points with two games left and have an outside chance of retaining the title. When asked earlier on Saturday whether he would remain in charge next season, Zidane did not give any guarantees. "I don`t know what`ll happen. I`m here, we`re playing tomorrow and next week but I don`t know what happens after that because this is Real Madrid," he told a news conference ahead of the team`s next tie against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Zidane left the club in 2018 just after winning a third consecutive Champions League crown, only to return 10 months later. He also quit the club as a player in 2006 when he retired from playing. Real host Villarreal on May 23 in the final game of the La Liga season.

Zidane to leave Real Madrid at end of season: reports

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race.

With the game poised at 1-1, Real's Eder Militao was penalized after a VAR review for touching the ball with his hand as he jumped to defend a cross.

The decision meant that a penalty that had been awarded to the hosts moments earlier for a foul on Karim Benzema by Sevilla goalkeeper Bono was overruled.

Ivan Rakitic scored from the spot to restore Sevilla's lead but a Diego Carlos own goal in the 93rd minute snatched a point for Real to leave them two points behind Atletico.

Zidane's side had appealed for a penalty in the first half when the ball struck Sevilla's Joan Jordan arm although, unlike Militao, the midfielder had not extended his arm.

"I don't understand it at all. If it's a handball against Militao it has to be a handball against Sevilla too," Zidane told Spanish network Movistar Plus.

The French coach prides himself on rarely discussing refereeing decisions but he took to the pitch after the game to remonstrate with official Juan Martinez Munuera.

"He told me that Militao's was a handball but he didn't convince me," added Zidane.

"I never speak about the referee but today I'm angry. In the end it is what it is and what I say won't change anything. I'm happy with how my team played, we deserved more as we were spectacular in the second half."

Real director Emilio Butragueno joined Zidane in expressing his frustration with the decision, recalling his side were denied a penalty against Atletico in March when the ball came off the hand of defender Felipe when he jumped for a header.

"We're not having much luck with plays like this. We've been in a few similar situations this season and once again the decision went against us," he said.

"It was an absolutely decisive decision given the moment in the game and what it meant, a penalty for Sevilla or a penalty for Real Madrid.

"We're concerned as there have been some similar plays which in theory would have gone in our favor and the outcome has been different. We're left feeling a little uneasy."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race. With the game poised at 1-1, Real's Eder Militao was penalized after a VAR review for touching the ball with his hand as he jumped to defend a cross. The decision meant that a penalty that had been awarded to the hosts moments earlier for a foul on Karim Benzema by Sevilla goalkeeper Bono was overruled. Ivan Rakitic scored from the spot to restore Sevilla's lead but a Diego Carlos own goal in the 93rd minute snatched a point for Real to leave them two points behind Atletico. Zidane's side had appealed for a penalty in the first half when the ball struck Sevilla's Joan Jordan arm although, unlike Militao, the midfielder had not extended his arm. "I don't understand it at all. If it's a handball against Militao it has to be a handball against Sevilla too," Zidane told Spanish network Movistar Plus. The French coach prides himself on rarely discussing refereeing decisions but he took to the pitch after the game to remonstrate with official Juan Martinez Munuera. "He told me that Militao's was a handball but he didn't convince me," added Zidane. "I never speak about the referee but today I'm angry. In the end it is what it is and what I say won't change anything. I'm happy with how my team played, we deserved more as we were spectacular in the second half." Real director Emilio Butragueno joined Zidane in expressing his frustration with the decision, recalling his side were denied a penalty against Atletico in March when the ball came off the hand of defender Felipe when he jumped for a header. "We're not having much luck with plays like this. We've been in a few similar situations this season and once again the decision went against us," he said. "It was an absolutely decisive decision given the moment in the game and what it meant, a penalty for Sevilla or a penalty for Real Madrid. "We're concerned as there have been some similar plays which in theory would have gone in our favor and the outcome has been different. We're left feeling a little uneasy."

Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has picked up a hamstring injury, the club announced on Saturday. Several Madrid fans fear that Ramos might just have played his last game for the Spanish Giants as his contract will run out in June.&nbsp;

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"Following the tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with tendonitis in the muscle of his left hamstring. His recovery will continue to be assessed," Real said in a statement.

The 35-year-old had a forgettable season with Real Madrid after being out on most of it due to a string of injuries. Ramos had only 15 league starts and only five appearances in all competitions in 2021.

Real Madrid are second in La Liga on 74 points, take on fourth-placed Sevilla - Ramos's former club - on Sunday. Madrid have four matches left in the league.&nbsp;

Real Madrid were not just beaten but outplayed, their defeat by Chelsea on Wednesday clear enough to spell the end of a team that has gone on and on but can no longer match the best in Europe.

After a historic run that has seen Zinedine Zidane's grandees win three consecutive Champions League titles and four in eight years, Real Madrid can be under no illusions.

This is the third year they have failed to reach the final and the second in a row they have faced elite English opposition and been found wanting.

"Chelsea were the better team," said midfielder Casemiro. "We have no excuses."

Madrid were outclassed by Manchester City last season in the round of 16 and while the 3-1 aggregate score against Chelsea made the tie look competitive, they were fortunate to escape a thrashing.&nbsp;

(Inputs from Agencies)

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has picked up a hamstring injury, the club announced on Saturday. Several Madrid fans fear that Ramos might just have played his last game for the Spanish Giants as his contract will run out in June.

Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has picked up a hamstring injury, the club announced on Saturday. Several Madrid fans fear that Ramos might just have played his last game for the Spanish Giants as his contract will run out in June. ALSO READ: Champions League final venue uncertain after Turkey on the travel red list "Following the tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with tendonitis in the muscle of his left hamstring. His recovery will continue to be assessed," Real said in a statement. The 35-year-old had a forgettable season with Real Madrid after being out on most of it due to a string of injuries. Ramos had only 15 league starts and only five appearances in all competitions in 2021. Real Madrid are second in La Liga on 74 points, take on fourth-placed Sevilla - Ramos's former club - on Sunday. Madrid have four matches left in the league. Real Madrid were not just beaten but outplayed, their defeat by Chelsea on Wednesday clear enough to spell the end of a team that has gone on and on but can no longer match the best in Europe. After a historic run that has seen Zinedine Zidane's grandees win three consecutive Champions League titles and four in eight years, Real Madrid can be under no illusions. This is the third year they have failed to reach the final and the second in a row they have faced elite English opposition and been found wanting. "Chelsea were the better team," said midfielder Casemiro. "We have no excuses." Madrid were outclassed by Manchester City last season in the round of 16 and while the 3-1 aggregate score against Chelsea made the tie look competitive, they were fortunate to escape a thrashing. (Inputs from Agencies)

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos suffers hamstring injury

Thomas Tuchel hailed the hunger of his "fantastic" Chelsea stars as they reached the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final with a 2-0 win against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Goals from Timo Werner and Mason Mount booked Chelsea's first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final appearance since they won the competition for the only time in 2012.

Tuchel's side will face Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;rivals Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on May 29.

Chelsea's 3-1 aggregate victory was well deserved as they produced a commanding display in the semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge, stifling Real's sporadic attacks and repeatedly hitting them on the counter.

They could easily have won more convincingly and Blues boss Tuchel was impressed by their tenacious performance.

"It was difficult in the first half when they had a lot of possession and made us suffer," Tuchel said.

"We were dangerous on counter-attacks, but never lost the desire or hunger to defend.

"It was a fantastic performance in the second half and we could have scored more earlier to be safe.

"It is a fantastic achievement and big congratulations to the team."

Chelsea, who also have an FA Cup final date against Leicester on the horizon, have kept 19 clean sheets since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January.

That defensive efficiency will give them a chance against City, who they have already beaten in the FA Cup semi-finals this season.

Chelsea faces City again in the Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;on Saturday and Tuchel won't look further ahead than that.

"Ask me four days before the final," he said of Chelsea's chances in Turkey.&nbsp;

"It is too early to talk about the final because there can be injured players, out of form or whatever happens.

"We need to wait and see, hopefully, we arrive with the whole squad and in a good moment because it is not done yet.

"We want to go all the way, and that means arriving in Istanbul wanting to win."

<h2>'Should have scored five'&nbsp;</h2>

Tuchel also guided Paris Saint-Germain to last season's&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final, where they lost to Bayern Munich, and he conceded it was a surprise to be back in the showpiece so soon.

"I am very happy that we have achieved this, I am very grateful and thankful to have this opportunity," he said.

"You can never be ahead of plan as a manager and as a player, it does not exist."

Mount's goal in the closing minutes was a well-deserved moment in the spotlight towards the end of a superb individual season for the England midfielder.

Mount has emerged as Chelsea's driving force as he silenced the critics who claimed he was given favourable treatment by former manager Frank Lampard.

Tuchel has quickly come to rely on the 22-year-old and he will have been impressed to hear Mount isn't ready to rest on his laurels.

"We should probably have scored about five, but the most important thing is we won tonight," Mount said.

"I can't put it into words. To get that goal late on, you can see by the celebrations, it was a massive goal and gave us breathing space.

"We haven't won nothing yet. We've got two massive cup finals and hopefully we can win them."

Thomas Tuchel hailed the hunger of his "fantastic" Chelsea stars as they reached the Champions League final with a 2-0 win against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Goals from Timo Werner and Mason Mount booked Chelsea's first Champions League final appearance since they won the competition for the only time in 2012.

Thomas Tuchel hailed the hunger of his "fantastic" Chelsea stars as they reached the Champions League final with a 2-0 win against Real Madrid on Wednesday. Goals from Timo Werner and Mason Mount booked Chelsea's first Champions League final appearance since they won the competition for the only time in 2012. Tuchel's side will face Premier League rivals Manchester City in the final in Istanbul on May 29. Chelsea's 3-1 aggregate victory was well deserved as they produced a commanding display in the semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge, stifling Real's sporadic attacks and repeatedly hitting them on the counter. They could easily have won more convincingly and Blues boss Tuchel was impressed by their tenacious performance. "It was difficult in the first half when they had a lot of possession and made us suffer," Tuchel said. "We were dangerous on counter-attacks, but never lost the desire or hunger to defend. "It was a fantastic performance in the second half and we could have scored more earlier to be safe. "It is a fantastic achievement and big congratulations to the team." Chelsea, who also have an FA Cup final date against Leicester on the horizon, have kept 19 clean sheets since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January. That defensive efficiency will give them a chance against City, who they have already beaten in the FA Cup semi-finals this season. Chelsea faces City again in the Premier League on Saturday and Tuchel won't look further ahead than that. "Ask me four days before the final," he said of Chelsea's chances in Turkey. "It is too early to talk about the final because there can be injured players, out of form or whatever happens. "We need to wait and see, hopefully, we arrive with the whole squad and in a good moment because it is not done yet. "We want to go all the way, and that means arriving in Istanbul wanting to win." 'Should have scored five' Tuchel also guided Paris Saint-Germain to last season's Champions League final, where they lost to Bayern Munich, and he conceded it was a surprise to be back in the showpiece so soon. "I am very happy that we have achieved this, I am very grateful and thankful to have this opportunity," he said. "You can never be ahead of plan as a manager and as a player, it does not exist." Mount's goal in the closing minutes was a well-deserved moment in the spotlight towards the end of a superb individual season for the England midfielder. Mount has emerged as Chelsea's driving force as he silenced the critics who claimed he was given favourable treatment by former manager Frank Lampard. Tuchel has quickly come to rely on the 22-year-old and he will have been impressed to hear Mount isn't ready to rest on his laurels. "We should probably have scored about five, but the most important thing is we won tonight," Mount said. "I can't put it into words. To get that goal late on, you can see by the celebrations, it was a massive goal and gave us breathing space. "We haven't won nothing yet. We've got two massive cup finals and hopefully we can win them."

Tuchel salutes Chelsea's desire as Blues reach Champions League final

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League. However, what further infuriated Madrid fans was Real Madrid winger and former Blues Eden Hazard's reaction after the final whistle.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-outclassed-by-chelsea-as-defeat-raises-fresh-doubts-around-old-guard-383127" hreflang="en">Champions League: Real Madrid outclassed by Chelsea as defeat raises fresh doubts around old guard</a>

Several fans took to social media and criticised the Belgian player for his performance and final whistle reaction against Chelsea. As per Marca, Real Madrid were furious after seeing Eden Hazard laughing and smiling at full time as he greeted some of his former teammates.

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Eden Hazard couldn't help but be happy for his former club 🔵 
 
(🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/btsportfootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@btsportfootball</a>)<a href="https://t.co/xrCdFTG4BW">pic.twitter.com/xrCdFTG4BW</a>
— B/R Football (@brfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/brfootball/status/1390069325592154116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Eden Hazard, who left Chelsea to be a part of Real Madrid in a deal worth £100 million, is having a tough time with the Spanish club as he was ruled out for a lengthy period of time due to a knee injury. Hazard has failed to find some form in his game due to which several RM fans expressed their anger towards the player and urging them to sell him.&nbsp;

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Eden Hazard just got knocked out of the Champions League and this is his reaction after the game. This man doesn’t care 😂 <a href="https://t.co/bzLtcf14GH">pic.twitter.com/bzLtcf14GH</a>
— FutbolBible (@FutbolBible) <a href="https://twitter.com/FutbolBible/status/1390049134418317315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Eden Hazard in the chelsea lockeroom after full time 🥂 <a href="https://t.co/a6ToV7osTn">pic.twitter.com/a6ToV7osTn</a>
— ◣vs◢ (@SW6LORD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SW6LORD/status/1390058276230864899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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April 2012: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
April 2013: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
May 2021: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final 
 
Eden Hazard doesn't deserve to wear Real Madrid Jersey. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/9xbDhdToau">pic.twitter.com/9xbDhdToau</a>
— RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridBabe/status/1390058182882508801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Two players that doesn't deserve to be at my club! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/eQLW7jawBD">pic.twitter.com/eQLW7jawBD</a>
— Hazard Out ‼️ (@lucasvazquez_91) <a href="https://twitter.com/lucasvazquez_91/status/1390069093290569728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It's a shame that this player wears the Ronaldo, Raul Juanito jersey<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hazardout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hazardout</a> <a href="https://t.co/vsYknYJrEF">pic.twitter.com/vsYknYJrEF</a>
— oussama (@uss_lk) <a href="https://twitter.com/uss_lk/status/1390072516878782467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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2 Seasons 
4 Goals 
€146m Transfer fee (included additional fees) 
€15m Salary per season 
Gave him Iconic Number 7 
 
In Return, He's Laughing with his friends after UCL Elimination in Semi-Final. 
 
At least Show some RESPECT for the badge You Wear on your chest. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HazardOut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HazardOut</a> <a href="https://t.co/j04eEBuwJS">pic.twitter.com/j04eEBuwJS</a>
— RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridBabe/status/1390239767376302081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Zinedine Zidane defended Hazard after putting a poor show against the Blues and said: "Eden has to get his confidence back and he needs to keep playing. Little by little, we have to make sure he recovers."

The coach also admitted record signing Hazard had been off the pace during the game but said the only way for the Belgian finally to thrive after two seasons with Real riddled with injuries was to keep playing.

"We were playing a semi-final and every player was ready, they wouldn't have played if they were not," Zidane told reporters.

"We can all be proud of the players, we gave it our best shot and we got here, to within one step of the final. Chelsea put in a great performance and you have to congratulate them."

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League.

Real Madrid were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League after a 2-0 (aggregate 3-1) defeat to Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final tie in the Champions League. However, what further infuriated Madrid fans was Real Madrid winger and former Blues Eden Hazard's reaction after the final whistle. ALSO READ: Champions League: Real Madrid outclassed by Chelsea as defeat raises fresh doubts around old guard Several fans took to social media and criticised the Belgian player for his performance and final whistle reaction against Chelsea. As per Marca, Real Madrid were furious after seeing Eden Hazard laughing and smiling at full time as he greeted some of his former teammates. Eden Hazard couldn't help but be happy for his former club 🔵 (🎥: @btsportfootball)pic.twitter.com/xrCdFTG4BW — B/R Football (@brfootball) May 5, 2021 × Eden Hazard, who left Chelsea to be a part of Real Madrid in a deal worth £100 million, is having a tough time with the Spanish club as he was ruled out for a lengthy period of time due to a knee injury. Hazard has failed to find some form in his game due to which several RM fans expressed their anger towards the player and urging them to sell him. Eden Hazard just got knocked out of the Champions League and this is his reaction after the game. This man doesn’t care 😂 pic.twitter.com/bzLtcf14GH — FutbolBible (@FutbolBible) May 5, 2021 × Eden Hazard in the chelsea lockeroom after full time 🥂 pic.twitter.com/a6ToV7osTn — ◣vs◢ (@SW6LORD) May 5, 2021 × April 2012: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final April 2013: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final May 2021: Madrid Knocked Out of CL in Semi-Final Eden Hazard doesn't deserve to wear Real Madrid Jersey. #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/9xbDhdToau — RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) May 5, 2021 × Two players that doesn't deserve to be at my club! #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/eQLW7jawBD — Hazard Out ‼️ (@lucasvazquez_91) May 5, 2021 × It's a shame that this player wears the Ronaldo, Raul Juanito jersey#hazardout pic.twitter.com/vsYknYJrEF — oussama (@uss_lk) May 5, 2021 × 2 Seasons 4 Goals €146m Transfer fee (included additional fees) €15m Salary per season Gave him Iconic Number 7 In Return, He's Laughing with his friends after UCL Elimination in Semi-Final. At least Show some RESPECT for the badge You Wear on your chest. #HazardOut pic.twitter.com/j04eEBuwJS — RMadridbabe (@RMadridBabe) May 6, 2021 × Zinedine Zidane defended Hazard after putting a poor show against the Blues and said: "Eden has to get his confidence back and he needs to keep playing. Little by little, we have to make sure he recovers." The coach also admitted record signing Hazard had been off the pace during the game but said the only way for the Belgian finally to thrive after two seasons with Real riddled with injuries was to keep playing. "We were playing a semi-final and every player was ready, they wouldn't have played if they were not," Zidane told reporters. "We can all be proud of the players, we gave it our best shot and we got here, to within one step of the final. Chelsea put in a great performance and you have to congratulate them."

#Hazardout: Real Madrid fans fume after Belgian's reaction following full time against Chelsea

Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos on Friday took to social media to express his concerns about India's severe COVID-19 crisis. The Madrid skipper shared a link to the UNICEF website and urged people to donate some amount to help with the raging pandemic in India.&nbsp;

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pat-cummins-to-sachin-tendulkar-cricketing-stalwarts-who-donated-in-indias-fight-against-covid-19-381735" hreflang="en">From Pat Cummins to Sachin Tendulkar: Cricketing stalwarts who donated in India's fight against COVID-19</a>

Ramos tweeted: "Deaths and infections continue to rise in India. UNICEF fears that India will become the country with the highest death rate among children under 5 in the world. They urgently need our help."

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Deaths and infections continue to rise in India.<a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNICEF</a> fears that India will become the country with the highest death rate among children under 5 in the world. 
They urgently need our help. 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/wcsNoB3Q1i">https://t.co/wcsNoB3Q1i</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmergenciaIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmergenciaIndia</a>
— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) <a href="https://twitter.com/SergioRamos/status/1387861742861144070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The star defender tested positive for Coronavirus two weeks ago while recovering from a calf injury. He was quarantined for 10 days. The skipper missed out on the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals against Chelsea but he may feature in the second-leg at Stamford Bridge.&nbsp;

Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours, while the active cases crossed the 32,00,000 mark, according to a date updated by the Union Health Ministry on Saturday.&nbsp;

The infection tally rose to 1,91,64,969 with 4,01,993 new cases, while the death toll increased to 2,11,853 with 3,523 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.&nbsp;

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 32,68,710, accounting for 17.06 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 81.84 per cent.&nbsp;

The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease, surged to 1,56,84,406, while the case fatality rate stands 1.11 per cent, the data stated.&nbsp;

India crossed the grim milestone of 15,000,000 on April 19.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 28,83,37,385 samples have been tested up to April 30, of which 19,45,299 were done on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos on Friday took to social media to express his concerns about India's severe COVID-19 crisis. The Madrid skipper shared a link to the UNICEF website and urged people to donate some amount to help with the raging pandemic in India.

Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos on Friday took to social media to express his concerns about India's severe COVID-19 crisis. The Madrid skipper shared a link to the UNICEF website and urged people to donate some amount to help with the raging pandemic in India. IN PICS: From Pat Cummins to Sachin Tendulkar: Cricketing stalwarts who donated in India's fight against COVID-19 Ramos tweeted: "Deaths and infections continue to rise in India. UNICEF fears that India will become the country with the highest death rate among children under 5 in the world. They urgently need our help." Deaths and infections continue to rise in India.@UNICEF fears that India will become the country with the highest death rate among children under 5 in the world. They urgently need our help. ➡️ https://t.co/wcsNoB3Q1i#EmergenciaIndia — Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) April 29, 2021 × The star defender tested positive for Coronavirus two weeks ago while recovering from a calf injury. He was quarantined for 10 days. The skipper missed out on the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals against Chelsea but he may feature in the second-leg at Stamford Bridge. Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours, while the active cases crossed the 32,00,000 mark, according to a date updated by the Union Health Ministry on Saturday. The infection tally rose to 1,91,64,969 with 4,01,993 new cases, while the death toll increased to 2,11,853 with 3,523 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 32,68,710, accounting for 17.06 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 81.84 per cent. The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease, surged to 1,56,84,406, while the case fatality rate stands 1.11 per cent, the data stated. India crossed the grim milestone of 15,000,000 on April 19. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 28,83,37,385 samples have been tested up to April 30, of which 19,45,299 were done on Friday.

'They urgently need our help': Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos expresses concerns about India's COVID-19 crisis

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute.

Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net.

Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance.

"We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said.

"It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1."

This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition.

It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves.

<h2>UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE</h2>

The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs.

Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot.

Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post.

The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time.

The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end.

Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29.

"We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different."

"We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic. Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute. Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net. Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance. "We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said. "It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1." This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition. It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves. UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs. Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot. Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post. The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time. The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end. Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29. "We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different." "We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Champions League: Benzema stunner for Real frustrates impressive Chelsea

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement.

UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced.

"I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday.

"A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game.

"All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year."

Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League.

"The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane.

The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg.

Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play.

The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9.

"We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017.

"We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens."

Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January.

"He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury.

However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd". The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement. UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced. "I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday. "A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game. "All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year." Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League. "The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane. The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg. Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play. The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9. "We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017. "We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens." Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January. "He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury. However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

'Absurd' to think Real could be banned from Champions League - Zidane

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through.&nbsp;

Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.&nbsp;

Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal.&nbsp;

Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season.&nbsp;

"It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday."

They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return.

Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday.

Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January.&nbsp;

"I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him."

After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal.&nbsp;

Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf.&nbsp;

Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened.&nbsp;

Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post.&nbsp;

Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left.&nbsp;

Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.&nbsp;

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea.

Real Madrid handed the initiative back to Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Saturday by drawing at home to Real Betis, a result that raises doubts about the team's condition ahead of Tuesday's Champions League semi-final against Chelsea. Eden Hazard was thrown on for the last 15 minutes of the 0-0 draw at Valdebebas in what was only the Belgian's second appearance in three months but Madrid could not find a way through. Atletico are now two points clear at the top of La Liga and can extend that advantage to five by winning away at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Barcelona could pull level on points with Real Madrid if they overcome Villarreal. Real Madrid struggled for chances and the concern will be that numerous injuries and fatigue are catching up with Zinedine Zidane's side at a crucial moment in the season. "It's two points dropped, that's obvious, we lacked a lot going forward, especially at the start of the game," said Zidane. "We weren't sharp but that can happen. We have to go again on Tuesday." They play Chelsea at home on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals and it is possible none of Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Ferland Mendy, Fede Valverde or Lucas Vazquez, all absent due to injury, will return. Kroos and Mendy have the best chance, with Zidane saying afterwards they would be assessed on Sunday. Hazard could feature against his former club after coming on for the final quarter of an hour but the fact Zidane waited so long to introduce him suggests he is still not considered match fit, having now played 30 minutes since the end of January. "I think in 15 minutes he did well," said Zidane. "He played with spark, with energy. The most important thing was nothing was bothering him. He can make a difference, absolutely, and we're going to need him." After an impressive few weeks in which Real Madrid knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League and became favourites to overhaul Atletico in La Liga, Zidane's team have now been held to three draws in their last four matches, all of them without scoring a goal. Neither side had much success in the first half but the game opened up in the second as the rain poured down and the ball began to skid across the turf. Rodrygo struck the bar, his overhit cross almost flying in, before Betis had three chances in 10 minutes, the best of them falling to Borja Iglesias but he hesitated and Dani Carvajal intervened. Madrid, though, came again as Luka Modric's bending effort was saved before Marcelo found space in the box but skewed his finish wide of the post. Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola had come on, with Zidane deploying wing-backs to find a winner, and then Hazard was introduced with 15 minutes left. Hazard weaved inside and picked out Vinicius Junior but Vinicius slipped with the goal in sight. Madrid had to settle for a point.

Below-par Real Madrid held by Betis with Chelsea test to come

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).&nbsp;

On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition.&nbsp;

They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually.&nbsp;

Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited.&nbsp;

UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four.&nbsp;

"They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito.&nbsp;

"Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else."&nbsp;

He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible."&nbsp;

European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too.&nbsp;

"Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport.&nbsp;

"Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change.&nbsp;

"A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added.&nbsp;

He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms.&nbsp;

"The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead."&nbsp;

Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said.&nbsp;

"The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down.&nbsp;

"There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL). On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition. They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually. Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited. UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four. "They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito. "Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else." He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible." European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too. "Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added. Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport. "Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football. "There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change. "A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added. He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms. "The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead." Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said. "The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down. "There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

'Madrid will not be kicked out of Champions League': ESL chief Perez

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.&nbsp;

Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture.

Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point.&nbsp;

Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday.&nbsp;

But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in.

With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May.&nbsp;

The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. &nbsp;

With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar.

"We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman.&nbsp;

"We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end."

Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last.&nbsp;

Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory.

They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit".&nbsp;

"It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third."

A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break.&nbsp;

Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema.&nbsp;

The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break.&nbsp;

Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line.&nbsp;

Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten.&nbsp;

Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise.&nbsp;

Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net.&nbsp;

Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear.&nbsp;

With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos.&nbsp;

Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one.&nbsp;

Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic.&nbsp;

Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved.&nbsp;

With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.&nbsp;

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas.

Real Madrid climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday after Karim Benzema's flicked finish helped them claim a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a wild Clasico at Valdebebas. Benzema's superb piece of skill and a deflected Toni Kroos free-kick put Madrid in charge and while Oscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barca, they fell to defeat in what could be Lionel Messi's final appearance in this fixture. Victory means Real Madrid go level on points with Atletico, with the top three now separated by a single point. Atletico, without the injured Luis Suarez, face Real Betis on Sunday. But Real Madrid now own the better head-to-head against both of their rivals while Barcelona and Atletico still have to play each other at Camp Nou in the run-in. With Atletico stumbling and both Barca and Real Madrid hitting their stride, this game looked set to define, if not the title, then who would become favourites to be crowned champions in May. The result was a riveting contest at a rain-soaked Alfredo di Stefano stadium - certainly one of the most exciting Clasicos in years - that saw both teams squander numerous chances, several efforts come back off the woodwork and Casemiro sent off in extra time. With the last play of the game, Barcelona substitute Ilaix Moriba rattled Real Madrid's crossbar. "We're still in it," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "We've lost a game against a team who is also fighting for the league but we have eight game left and we will fight to the end." Casemiro's red card had also given Messi a free-kick and the chance for a dramatic equaliser but instead the Argentinian made it seven games now without a goal against Real Madrid, with many wondering if his 45th Clasico will be his last. Messi might yet turn the tide in the eight games still remaining but there is no doubt Madrid are in the groove after backing up beating Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday with another crucial victory. They can finish the job in the Champions League at Anfield next week although Zinedine Zidane admitted afterwards his players are "physically at their limit". "It was a difficult game, the first half was ours, but we suffered in the second," said Zidane. "We deserved the victory, because we had a lot of chances to score the third." A breathless first half began with chances for both sides as Marc-Andre ter Stegen's sloppy clearance almost gave Benzema a clear run at goal before Messi slipped in Jordi Alba but the cross was intercepted by Thibaut Courtois. Real Madrid's opener came after a superb counter-attack from Barcelona, Messi going down too easily on the edge of the area, with Madrid pouring forward on the break. Fede Valverde powered through midfield and fed wide to Lucas Vazquez, whose cross was expertly flicked inside the near post by Benzema. The goal shook Barca, who were unable to restrain the speed of Madrid and particularly Vinicius Junior on the break. Vinicius was brought down by Ronald Araujo on the edge of the area and Kroos' free-kick cannoned off the back off Sergino Dest and in, evading the efforts of Alba to head away on the line. Valverde and Messi both struck the post before half-time, Valverde after another scintillating Madrid counter-attack and Messi from a corner, with Courtois beaten. Koeman brought Antoine Griezmann on for Dest but as the rain poured down, Madrid poured forward. Kroos and Benzema both could have scored a third and they were punished for failing to capitalise. Griezmann jumped over Alba's cross and as the ball skidded through, Mingueza did well to shin it into the net. Araujo deflected Vinicius' cross onto his own post and Alba was denied by Courtois. Again, Madrid tore away, again they missed the chance, Vinicius running onto Luka Modric's pass but opting not to shoot, allowing Araujo to clear. With 20 minutes left, Zidane took off Benzema, Vinicius and Kroos. Referee Gil Manzano had to replace his equipment because of the rain. Messi changed his shirt for a dry one. Barcelona wantd a late penalty when Ferland Mendy clipped Martin Braithwaite with his arm but the appeal was optimistic. Casemiro was sent off in the 90th minute for a late challenge on Mingueza, that gave Messi a free-kick on the edge of the area but Courtois saved. With Ter Stegen up and almost the last kick of the game, Ilaix rattled the crossbar. Madrid survived.

Real Madrid edge thrilling Clasico to go top of La Liga

Zinedine Zidane on Friday said that he hoped Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos won't have played their last Clasicos come the end of the season, with doubts over the futures of the Barcelona and Real Madrid captains ahead of a huge La Liga encounter.

Both players' contracts are up at the end of the campaign and Messi is yet to commit to a new deal with Barca after trying to force an exit last summer.

When asked if Saturday's clash in the Spanish capital would be the last of the pair's careers at Spain's top two clubs, Madrid coach Zidane said: "I hope not".

"Sergio is not going to play tomorrow. It's sad, but I really hope that he will stay here," the Frenchman added of the injured 35-year-old.

Zidane also said he hoped Messi would remain at Barca for the good of Spanish football, joking "let him stay at Barcelona -- he's doing very well there!"

Barca and reigning champions Madrid are both trying to chase down league leaders Atletico Madrid, whose defeat at Sevilla last Sunday allowed their rivals to move within touching distance of the summit.

Madrid are three points behind their city rivals in third, while second-placed Barca are a point closer, meaning whoever wins at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium will knock Atletico off the top for the first time since December after ruthlessly chipping away at what was a 10-point lead in February.

Zidane, whose team impressed in a 3-1 Champions League win over Liverpool this week, appeared confident ahead of a crucial fixture in his attempt to retain his team's league title.

"We have been very good recently, consistent," he said.

"And not just with the ball, we have improved defensively too. We know that regardless of what we have done up to now, we will have to play well tomorrow."

Barca boss Ronald Koeman also wants Messi and Ramos to both stay, telling reporters "the best thing for La Liga is that the best players keep playing until the last possible moment".

The 58-year-old said he was hoping for "the best Messi" as his team hope to extend a six-match league winning run which has come thanks in large part to the Argentine playmaker's sparkling recent form.

The 33-year-old has scored 23 La Liga goals -- 10 of those coming in his last eight appearances -- and set up eight more this term to give Barca a fighting chance of finishing top of the pile after a troubled start to the season dominated by his efforts to leave and the club's serious financial difficulties.

"We need the best Barca to win. We will have to do everything perfectly, the attack, our movement, our passing game, and for that you need Leo," said the Dutch coach, whose team haven't lost in La Liga since early December.

Koeman will be boosted by the return from injury of Spain defenders Gerard Pique and Sergi Roberto.

"They are two important players, not only for their quality on the field but also for their personalities," said Koeman.

"They lack a bit of rhythm, but they are strong physically and are keen to help the team."

Zinedine Zidane on Friday said that he hoped Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos won't have played their last Clasicos come the end of the season, with doubts over the futures of the Barcelona and Real Madrid captains ahead of a huge La Liga encounter.

Zinedine Zidane on Friday said that he hoped Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos won't have played their last Clasicos come the end of the season, with doubts over the futures of the Barcelona and Real Madrid captains ahead of a huge La Liga encounter. Both players' contracts are up at the end of the campaign and Messi is yet to commit to a new deal with Barca after trying to force an exit last summer. When asked if Saturday's clash in the Spanish capital would be the last of the pair's careers at Spain's top two clubs, Madrid coach Zidane said: "I hope not". "Sergio is not going to play tomorrow. It's sad, but I really hope that he will stay here," the Frenchman added of the injured 35-year-old. Zidane also said he hoped Messi would remain at Barca for the good of Spanish football, joking "let him stay at Barcelona -- he's doing very well there!" Barca and reigning champions Madrid are both trying to chase down league leaders Atletico Madrid, whose defeat at Sevilla last Sunday allowed their rivals to move within touching distance of the summit. Madrid are three points behind their city rivals in third, while second-placed Barca are a point closer, meaning whoever wins at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium will knock Atletico off the top for the first time since December after ruthlessly chipping away at what was a 10-point lead in February. Zidane, whose team impressed in a 3-1 Champions League win over Liverpool this week, appeared confident ahead of a crucial fixture in his attempt to retain his team's league title. "We have been very good recently, consistent," he said. "And not just with the ball, we have improved defensively too. We know that regardless of what we have done up to now, we will have to play well tomorrow." Barca boss Ronald Koeman also wants Messi and Ramos to both stay, telling reporters "the best thing for La Liga is that the best players keep playing until the last possible moment". The 58-year-old said he was hoping for "the best Messi" as his team hope to extend a six-match league winning run which has come thanks in large part to the Argentine playmaker's sparkling recent form. The 33-year-old has scored 23 La Liga goals -- 10 of those coming in his last eight appearances -- and set up eight more this term to give Barca a fighting chance of finishing top of the pile after a troubled start to the season dominated by his efforts to leave and the club's serious financial difficulties. "We need the best Barca to win. We will have to do everything perfectly, the attack, our movement, our passing game, and for that you need Leo," said the Dutch coach, whose team haven't lost in La Liga since early December. Koeman will be boosted by the return from injury of Spain defenders Gerard Pique and Sergi Roberto. "They are two important players, not only for their quality on the field but also for their personalities," said Koeman. "They lack a bit of rhythm, but they are strong physically and are keen to help the team."

Zidane hopes there will be more Clasicos for Messi and Ramos

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half.

Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale.

The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital.

"I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp.

"I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago.

"We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team."

Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season.

But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign.

Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.

"It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years.

"I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger."

Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants.

The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain.

"When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said.&nbsp;

"My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev. Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half. Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale. The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital. "I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp. "I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago. "We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team." Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season. But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign. Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. "It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years. "I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger." Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants. The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain. "When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said. "My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Klopp not on Real Madrid revenge mission

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool.&nbsp;

Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper.&nbsp;

A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday.

Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.&nbsp;

Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season.&nbsp;

The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury.&nbsp;

However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021.&nbsp;

Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Ramos reunion denied -</h2>

&nbsp;

Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection.

Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order.&nbsp;

When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too.

Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance.

If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible.

The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer.

For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important.&nbsp;

Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury.

Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by.

But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year.

Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition.

In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans. Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool. Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper. A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years. But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday. Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic. After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history. Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season. The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury. However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021. Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back. - Ramos reunion denied - Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection. Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order. When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too. Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance. If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible. The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer. For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important. Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury. Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by. But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year. Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition. In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Fallen giants seek revival as Real Madrid, Liverpool battle again

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left.&nbsp;

And if they can overcome Liverpool, they will have a semi-final to come against either Chelsea or Porto and be within sight of a 14th European triumph.

"I think my team has been underestimated," said Zidane in a press conference on Monday.&nbsp;"I trust my team a lot and I know what it can give. But we can't change what people think. We can only work day by day and while there is still a chance, we never give up.&nbsp;

"We are going to fight for everything. We have had difficult moments this season and now we are better but it doesn't mean anything tomorrow."&nbsp;

Zidane raised the possibility of Eden Hazard being involved in the first leg in Madrid on Tuesday, even though the Belgian has missed the last three weeks with a pelvic injury. Hazard trained at Valdebebas on Monday morning.&nbsp;

"We have talked a lot about this, Hazard has to be calm. The important thing is that he has recovered," said Zidane. "If the player is well, I want him with the team. We are going to do things little by little and we'll see what happens."&nbsp;

Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos, who injured his calf on international duty last month with Spain.&nbsp;

Ramos played a key role as Real Madrid beat Liverpool in the Champions League final in 2018, after his challenge forced Mohamed Salah to be substituted in the first half. &nbsp;

"I know Sergio, he is a teammate, a friend," said Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez. "It's a shame, nobody likes to be injured in moments as important as this and even more so when you know Sergio, who is the captain.&nbsp;

"I'm sure that not just Salah but everyone from Liverpool will want to take revenge and win the game, just like us."&nbsp;

Liverpool bounced back from their defeat in Kiev by winning the Champions League and Premier League over the next two seasons but, like Madrid, they have wavered since, falling behind Bayern Munich and Manchester City.&nbsp;

"We don't think about the past," said Zidane. "It's a big game for them and it's a different game from the final in Kiev. We're preparing for a different game."&nbsp;

"We are at a club where every day, every minute we live with pressure," added Nacho. "We know how to handle it, we try to use it in the best possible way, which is to lift a trophy at the end of the season."&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday. Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left.

Zinedine Zidane believes Real Madrid are being underrated ahead of the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool on Tuesday. Madrid have endured a patchy season but remain alive in the Champions League and La Liga, with the gap to Atletico Madrid down to three points with nine games left. And if they can overcome Liverpool, they will have a semi-final to come against either Chelsea or Porto and be within sight of a 14th European triumph. "I think my team has been underestimated," said Zidane in a press conference on Monday. "I trust my team a lot and I know what it can give. But we can't change what people think. We can only work day by day and while there is still a chance, we never give up. "We are going to fight for everything. We have had difficult moments this season and now we are better but it doesn't mean anything tomorrow." Zidane raised the possibility of Eden Hazard being involved in the first leg in Madrid on Tuesday, even though the Belgian has missed the last three weeks with a pelvic injury. Hazard trained at Valdebebas on Monday morning. "We have talked a lot about this, Hazard has to be calm. The important thing is that he has recovered," said Zidane. "If the player is well, I want him with the team. We are going to do things little by little and we'll see what happens." Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos, who injured his calf on international duty last month with Spain. Ramos played a key role as Real Madrid beat Liverpool in the Champions League final in 2018, after his challenge forced Mohamed Salah to be substituted in the first half. "I know Sergio, he is a teammate, a friend," said Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez. "It's a shame, nobody likes to be injured in moments as important as this and even more so when you know Sergio, who is the captain. "I'm sure that not just Salah but everyone from Liverpool will want to take revenge and win the game, just like us." Liverpool bounced back from their defeat in Kiev by winning the Champions League and Premier League over the next two seasons but, like Madrid, they have wavered since, falling behind Bayern Munich and Manchester City. "We don't think about the past," said Zidane. "It's a big game for them and it's a different game from the final in Kiev. We're preparing for a different game." "We are at a club where every day, every minute we live with pressure," added Nacho. "We know how to handle it, we try to use it in the best possible way, which is to lift a trophy at the end of the season."

Zidane: Nobody should write off Real Madrid

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years.&nbsp;

Sergio Ramos marked his return from injury by converting a penalty after Karim Benzema continued his scoring streak by capitalising on a glaring error from Atlanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello.&nbsp;

Sportiello's scuffed clearance in the first half resulted in Benzema being given an easy finish at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium and after an electric start, Atalanta never really recovered.&nbsp;

Luis Muriel pulled one back for the visitors late on but any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed as substitute Marco Asensio fired in a third for Madrid.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane's side will be in Friday's draw for the last eight and with their old guard fit and firing again, they will be hopeful of exceeding what are now dampened expectations of La Liga's reigning champions.&nbsp;

"We showed tonight how much hunger there still is in this team," said Luka Modric. "We can go far. How far let's see but today was an important step."

Ramos played just over an hour in his second appearance since recovering from a knee injury while Benzema's goal was his eighth in as many games and 70th in the Champions League, making him only the fifth player to reach that number.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old Modric and Toni Kroos were dominant in the absence of the suspended Casemiro.&nbsp;

"I feel 27!" joked Modric. "The years on your passport don't matter, it's about what you do on the pitch."

How Madrid's veterans would fare against more polished opposition remains to be seen, after they came up short against Manchester City last year and Ajax the year before that, both in the last 16.

<h2>- Madrid punish Atalanta errors -</h2>

They will be unlikely to benefit from the same generosity Atalanta afforded them across the two legs.

Remo Freuler's red card and a late goal spoiled the Italians' night in Bergamo and it was individual errors from Sportiello and then Rafael Toloi for the penalty that let them down again here.

"We started strong and we were succeeding with our pressing," said Muriel. "It's a shame because from our two mistakes came the two goals that cut our legs from under us."

Atalanta tore into Madrid early on, with the intensity of their press giving their opponents no time to settle and Robin Gosens could have scored, only to fail to connect with Muriel's cross.

The early storm weathered, Madrid found their feet as Kroos began to dictate from deep and the tireless Modric popped passes around Atalanta's midfield.&nbsp;

The lively Vinicius Junior took too long after a neat one-two with Benzema, who then showed the youngster how it should be done.&nbsp;

Sportiello's clearance was tamed by Modric, whose second touch pushed the ball into the box before a third cut the ball back to Benzema, who had an open net.&nbsp;

The goal killed Atalanta's belief and Vinicius almost added a second after half-time, only to prod wide after a surging run to the edge of Atalanta's six-yard box.&nbsp;

But the warning was not heeded and Vinicius raced past Toloi, whose dangling leg made enough contact to concede the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the corner.

Ramos signalled to the bench that his work was done and he departed shortly after, before Benzema headed Lucas Vazquez's cross at Sportiello and the rebound against the post.

Muriel gave Atalanta hope by curling in a superb free-kick with eight minutes left but in an instant it was gone again, as Asensio drove in a third.

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years.

Real Madrid avoided another early Champions League exit on Tuesday by beating Atalanta 3-1 to win the tie 4-1 on aggregate and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in three years. Sergio Ramos marked his return from injury by converting a penalty after Karim Benzema continued his scoring streak by capitalising on a glaring error from Atlanta goalkeeper Marco Sportiello. Sportiello's scuffed clearance in the first half resulted in Benzema being given an easy finish at the Alfredo di Stefano stadium and after an electric start, Atalanta never really recovered. Luis Muriel pulled one back for the visitors late on but any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed as substitute Marco Asensio fired in a third for Madrid. Zinedine Zidane's side will be in Friday's draw for the last eight and with their old guard fit and firing again, they will be hopeful of exceeding what are now dampened expectations of La Liga's reigning champions. "We showed tonight how much hunger there still is in this team," said Luka Modric. "We can go far. How far let's see but today was an important step." Ramos played just over an hour in his second appearance since recovering from a knee injury while Benzema's goal was his eighth in as many games and 70th in the Champions League, making him only the fifth player to reach that number. The 35-year-old Modric and Toni Kroos were dominant in the absence of the suspended Casemiro. "I feel 27!" joked Modric. "The years on your passport don't matter, it's about what you do on the pitch." How Madrid's veterans would fare against more polished opposition remains to be seen, after they came up short against Manchester City last year and Ajax the year before that, both in the last 16. - Madrid punish Atalanta errors - They will be unlikely to benefit from the same generosity Atalanta afforded them across the two legs. Remo Freuler's red card and a late goal spoiled the Italians' night in Bergamo and it was individual errors from Sportiello and then Rafael Toloi for the penalty that let them down again here. "We started strong and we were succeeding with our pressing," said Muriel. "It's a shame because from our two mistakes came the two goals that cut our legs from under us." Atalanta tore into Madrid early on, with the intensity of their press giving their opponents no time to settle and Robin Gosens could have scored, only to fail to connect with Muriel's cross. The early storm weathered, Madrid found their feet as Kroos began to dictate from deep and the tireless Modric popped passes around Atalanta's midfield. The lively Vinicius Junior took too long after a neat one-two with Benzema, who then showed the youngster how it should be done. Sportiello's clearance was tamed by Modric, whose second touch pushed the ball into the box before a third cut the ball back to Benzema, who had an open net. The goal killed Atalanta's belief and Vinicius almost added a second after half-time, only to prod wide after a surging run to the edge of Atalanta's six-yard box. But the warning was not heeded and Vinicius raced past Toloi, whose dangling leg made enough contact to concede the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the corner. Ramos signalled to the bench that his work was done and he departed shortly after, before Benzema headed Lucas Vazquez's cross at Sportiello and the rebound against the post. Muriel gave Atalanta hope by curling in a superb free-kick with eight minutes left but in an instant it was gone again, as Asensio drove in a third.

Real Madrid's old guard see off Atalanta to reach Champions League last eight

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker.

Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible."

"We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club."

Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future."

Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros.

The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!"

Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible.

Zinedine Zidane opened the door to Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Real Madrid on Monday, admitting a comeback is "possible" for the striker. Asked by Sky Italia if there is any truth to rumours that Ronaldo could rejoin Madrid, Zidane said: "It's possible, it's possible." "We know Cristiano," Zidane added. "We know the person he is and everything he's done at Real Madrid. But now he's a Juventus player and you have to have respect both him and the club." Asked if he would like to coach Ronaldo again, Zidane said: "I did what I had to do with Cristiano. Let's see what will happen in the future." Reports in Spain have suggested Ronaldo is keen on returning to Real Madrid, where he enjoyed a hugely successful nine years before leaving in 2018 for 100 million euros. The 36-year-old increased speculation last week with a cryptic post on social media, in which he wrote: "It's true the past belongs in museums (I should say!) but fortunately, football has memory... and so do I!" Ronaldo's time at Juventus has not been as successful as was hoped. The team sit third in Serie A while defeat by Porto last week meant they went out in the Champions League last 16 for a second consecutive year.

Zidane says Ronaldo return to Real Madrid 'possible'

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury.

Hazard has missed Madrid's past seven games with a thigh problem but could return, as could captain Sergio Ramos, against Elche on Saturday, a timely boost ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Atalanta.

"We're happy we're getting back Sergio and Eden for tomorrow. Our idea is they get some minutes, and then we'll see," Zidane told a news conference Friday.

Signed for 100 million euros from Chelsea in July 2019, Hazard has been restricted to just nine starts this season. He has suffered a series of injuries and also missed a game after testing positive for Covid-19.

"He looks well physically and emotionally. He's overcome all these injures, these aches and now he looks good, that's why he's with us and I hope he can play," said Zidane.

"He had a lengthy injury, that he hadn't had before, but he has a long contract and I think he's a player who, when he gets fit, is going to be great, I'm certain of it."

"It's difficult when a player has an injury and isn't 100%, but I'm sure he's going to do very well here," added Zidane. &nbsp;

Ramos, who turns 35 later this month, is available again following knee surgery in February. He hasn't played since January 14 and is out of contract at the end of the season.

"I don't know what's going to happen. What we want is for Sergio to stay here, that's what I can say as coach because he's an important player for us," said Zidane.

Ramos said Thursday "there is no news" regarding an extension but spoke of his desire to play until he is 40.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he believes Eden Hazard is "going to do very well" at the club as the Belgium star prepares for his latest comeback from injury. Hazard has missed Madrid's past seven games with a thigh problem but could return, as could captain Sergio Ramos, against Elche on Saturday, a timely boost ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Atalanta. "We're happy we're getting back Sergio and Eden for tomorrow. Our idea is they get some minutes, and then we'll see," Zidane told a news conference Friday. Signed for 100 million euros from Chelsea in July 2019, Hazard has been restricted to just nine starts this season. He has suffered a series of injuries and also missed a game after testing positive for Covid-19. "He looks well physically and emotionally. He's overcome all these injures, these aches and now he looks good, that's why he's with us and I hope he can play," said Zidane. "He had a lengthy injury, that he hadn't had before, but he has a long contract and I think he's a player who, when he gets fit, is going to be great, I'm certain of it." "It's difficult when a player has an injury and isn't 100%, but I'm sure he's going to do very well here," added Zidane. Ramos, who turns 35 later this month, is available again following knee surgery in February. He hasn't played since January 14 and is out of contract at the end of the season. "I don't know what's going to happen. What we want is for Sergio to stay here, that's what I can say as coach because he's an important player for us," said Zidane. Ramos said Thursday "there is no news" regarding an extension but spoke of his desire to play until he is 40.

Zidane confident Hazard will be success at Madrid

Ferland Mendy put Real Madrid within touching distance of the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;quarter-finals on Wednesday with the late strike that sank 10-man Atalanta 1-0 in Bergamo.

The French left-back's curling effort came four minutes from time in a last 16, first leg clash in which the hosts had to play a man down for over 70 minutes, giving Zinedine Zidane's side the advantage heading into the second leg in Madrid on March 16.

"We didn't have a great game tonight, but the most important thing was the result, scoring away was important for us," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"It's a very good result against an Atalanta team even at ten, because they defended very well.

"The tie is open. We are going to have a great return match."

Atalanta had attacked early but the game was transformed when Swiss midfielder Remo Freuler was harshly send off in the 17th minutes for tripping Mendy at the edge of the penalty area.

Gian Piero Gasperini's woes continued with forward Duvan Zapata limping off after half an hour with a muscular problem with midfielder Mario Pasalic coming off the bench.

"The game was ruined," said Gasperini.&nbsp;

"I don't know what would have happened 11 against 11.

"I just got banned for saying something in Serie A, if I say something now then UEFA will ban me. But this is football suicide.&nbsp;

"Enough of these referees who've never played a game and don't know the difference between a challenge and a foul."

<h2>Advantage Madrid&nbsp;</h2>

Spanish midfielder Isco got a rare start up front for injury-hit Real Madrid playing alongside Marco Asensio and Vinicius.

The 13-time European&nbsp;champions&nbsp;were without striker Karim Benzema due to an ankle problem with an injury list also including Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard and Dani Carvajal.

"It's true that there are many casualties, but the players who are here are doing well, committed, every time there is a change we adapt," added Zidane.&nbsp;

But Zidane's side failed to truly make the most of the extra man despite coming closest to breaking through in the first half with a Casemiro header, with Nacho, Isco and&nbsp;Vinícius Junior also threatening and Luka Modric firing over.

Atalanta continued to attack, with Luis Muriel missing a chance to give the hosts the lead four minutes before the break with a long-range strike that went just wide.

Atalanta goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini then kept the scores level when he stopped a Casemiro header on a free kick before the half-time whistle.

Josip Ilicic came on in place of Muriel after 56 minutes.

The Slovenian scored five goals against Valencia at this stage of the competition last season, but was substituted four minutes from time after a poor display.

Soon afterwards Madrid broke through thanks to Mendy, who beat Gollini with a stylish, curling effort into the top corner.

Madrid have the advantage going into the second leg having missed out on the quarter-finals for the last two seasons.

"Normally there are a lot of goals in games against Atalanta, we were expecting a difficult game but after the red it was normal they would defend deep," said Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Atalanta need a historic effort in the away leg to reach the last eight for a second successive year.

The Bergamo side won their last 16, first leg clash against Valencia 4-1 a year ago in front of 45,000 spectators in Milan's San Siro.

That match was considered to have been one of the reasons behind the acceleration of coronavirus in Italy with Bergamo at the epicentre of the country's outbreak.

The are in their second&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaign, but Wednesday's match was the first knock-out fixture in their home stadium which underwent renovations last season.

And thousands of fans ignored the Italian team's plea to stay away with a party atmosphere outside the stadium with a fireworks display.

Ferland Mendy put Real Madrid within touching distance of the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday with the late strike that sank 10-man Atalanta 1-0 in Bergamo.

Ferland Mendy put Real Madrid within touching distance of the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday with the late strike that sank 10-man Atalanta 1-0 in Bergamo. The French left-back's curling effort came four minutes from time in a last 16, first leg clash in which the hosts had to play a man down for over 70 minutes, giving Zinedine Zidane's side the advantage heading into the second leg in Madrid on March 16. "We didn't have a great game tonight, but the most important thing was the result, scoring away was important for us," said Zidane. "It's a very good result against an Atalanta team even at ten, because they defended very well. "The tie is open. We are going to have a great return match." Atalanta had attacked early but the game was transformed when Swiss midfielder Remo Freuler was harshly send off in the 17th minutes for tripping Mendy at the edge of the penalty area. Gian Piero Gasperini's woes continued with forward Duvan Zapata limping off after half an hour with a muscular problem with midfielder Mario Pasalic coming off the bench. "The game was ruined," said Gasperini. "I don't know what would have happened 11 against 11. "I just got banned for saying something in Serie A, if I say something now then UEFA will ban me. But this is football suicide. "Enough of these referees who've never played a game and don't know the difference between a challenge and a foul." Advantage Madrid Spanish midfielder Isco got a rare start up front for injury-hit Real Madrid playing alongside Marco Asensio and Vinicius. The 13-time European champions were without striker Karim Benzema due to an ankle problem with an injury list also including Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard and Dani Carvajal. "It's true that there are many casualties, but the players who are here are doing well, committed, every time there is a change we adapt," added Zidane. But Zidane's side failed to truly make the most of the extra man despite coming closest to breaking through in the first half with a Casemiro header, with Nacho, Isco and Vinícius Junior also threatening and Luka Modric firing over. Atalanta continued to attack, with Luis Muriel missing a chance to give the hosts the lead four minutes before the break with a long-range strike that went just wide. Atalanta goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini then kept the scores level when he stopped a Casemiro header on a free kick before the half-time whistle. Josip Ilicic came on in place of Muriel after 56 minutes. The Slovenian scored five goals against Valencia at this stage of the competition last season, but was substituted four minutes from time after a poor display. Soon afterwards Madrid broke through thanks to Mendy, who beat Gollini with a stylish, curling effort into the top corner. Madrid have the advantage going into the second leg having missed out on the quarter-finals for the last two seasons. "Normally there are a lot of goals in games against Atalanta, we were expecting a difficult game but after the red it was normal they would defend deep," said Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Atalanta need a historic effort in the away leg to reach the last eight for a second successive year. The Bergamo side won their last 16, first leg clash against Valencia 4-1 a year ago in front of 45,000 spectators in Milan's San Siro. That match was considered to have been one of the reasons behind the acceleration of coronavirus in Italy with Bergamo at the epicentre of the country's outbreak. The are in their second Champions League campaign, but Wednesday's match was the first knock-out fixture in their home stadium which underwent renovations last season. And thousands of fans ignored the Italian team's plea to stay away with a party atmosphere outside the stadium with a fireworks display.

Mendy's late strike puts Real Madrid in sight of Champions League quarters

Real Madrid are back within touching distance of the top of La Liga after they punished another Atletico Madrid slip against Levante on Saturday by beating Real Valladolid 1-0.

Atletico had the chance to stretch their lead to 11 points this week by winning back-to-back games against Levante but instead they followed a 1-1 draw on Wednesday with a surprise 2-0 loss, meaning a five-point advantage became only six.

Real Madrid cranked up the pressure again by edging to a win over struggling Real Valladolid, Casemiro's second-half header cutting the gap to just three points, albeit with Atletico still owning a game in hand.

The swing in momentum comes at a bad time for Atletico, who face Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday, and it feels significant given it has coincided with a resurgence, in La Liga at least, for their chasing rivals.

Real Madrid's victory at the Jose Zorilla Stadium was their fourth in a row, three of those coming with clean sheets, which suggests a return to form for a defence that all but clinched them the title last season.

Zinedine Zidane's side have done it without several key players too. Karim Benzema is the latest absentee through injury, joining the likes of Eden Hazard, Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal on the sidelines.

It meant a rare start for Mariano Diaz up front against Valladolid, while Isco was the only senior player named by Zidane on the bench.

Barcelona, meanwhile, play at home to Cadiz on Sunday when Ronald Koeman's side will be hoping to ease the pain of the Champions League thrashing by Paris Saint-Germain in midweek with an eighth consecutive win in La Liga. Victory would put them six points behind Atletico.

<h2>- Atletico undone by Levante -</h2>

Atleti's defeat was only their second in the league this season and their first at the Wanda Metropolitano in any competition since Barca beat them there in December 2019.

They have now gone seven league games without a clean sheet, their longest run since Simeone became coach in 2011, and their hopes of tightening up will not be helped by an injury to Jose Gimenez, who hobbled off and may not be fit to face Chelsea.

"League campaigns are always the same, with big moments, difficulties, obstacles, for everyone, not only for Atletico Madrid," Simeone said. "The teams that are strong in those moments are the ones that will achieve their objectives."

Due to rearranged fixtures, they were facing Levante for the second time in four days and Levante proved their draw in midweek was no fluke, even if they had to survive 28 Atletico shots before the final whistle blew.

Luis Suarez went closest to finding an equaliser, his bending free-kick in the second half coming back off the post. Suarez has now gone three league games without scoring for the first time this season.

Jose Luis Morales had already put Levante in front with a deflected finish off Felipe and while Atletico huffed and puffed, they were unable to find a way past Levante's inspired goalkeeper Dani Cardenas.

Cardenas made 10 saves, the most from any La Liga keeper without conceding this term.

Atletico's goalkeeper Jan Oblak then went up for a corner in injury-time, leaving Jorge de Frutos to make it two from the halfway line by launching into an open net.

"In the first half we were flat," said Simeone. "In the second we created a lot of chances, Suarez hit the post -- there was a lot of positives to take."

For an hour, it looked like Real Madrid might suffer similar frustration against a determined Valladolid, who would have led had it not been for a string of excellent saves by Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Courtois had to pull off a double stop to deny Fabian Orellana and Saidy Janko in the first half and then in the second blocked Orellana, who had been bizarrely set up by Ferland Mendy launching a ball across his own penalty area.

The Belgian kept Madrid in it and then Casemiro put them in front. Casemiro had been allowed two free headers already by Valladolid's defence and he pounced at the third opportunity, nodding in Toni Kroos' free-kick to give Real Madrid hope.

Real Madrid are back within touching distance of the top of La Liga after they punished another Atletico Madrid slip against Levante on Saturday by beating Real Valladolid 1-0.

Real Madrid are back within touching distance of the top of La Liga after they punished another Atletico Madrid slip against Levante on Saturday by beating Real Valladolid 1-0. Atletico had the chance to stretch their lead to 11 points this week by winning back-to-back games against Levante but instead they followed a 1-1 draw on Wednesday with a surprise 2-0 loss, meaning a five-point advantage became only six. Real Madrid cranked up the pressure again by edging to a win over struggling Real Valladolid, Casemiro's second-half header cutting the gap to just three points, albeit with Atletico still owning a game in hand. The swing in momentum comes at a bad time for Atletico, who face Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday, and it feels significant given it has coincided with a resurgence, in La Liga at least, for their chasing rivals. Real Madrid's victory at the Jose Zorilla Stadium was their fourth in a row, three of those coming with clean sheets, which suggests a return to form for a defence that all but clinched them the title last season. Zinedine Zidane's side have done it without several key players too. Karim Benzema is the latest absentee through injury, joining the likes of Eden Hazard, Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal on the sidelines. It meant a rare start for Mariano Diaz up front against Valladolid, while Isco was the only senior player named by Zidane on the bench. Barcelona, meanwhile, play at home to Cadiz on Sunday when Ronald Koeman's side will be hoping to ease the pain of the Champions League thrashing by Paris Saint-Germain in midweek with an eighth consecutive win in La Liga. Victory would put them six points behind Atletico. - Atletico undone by Levante - Atleti's defeat was only their second in the league this season and their first at the Wanda Metropolitano in any competition since Barca beat them there in December 2019. They have now gone seven league games without a clean sheet, their longest run since Simeone became coach in 2011, and their hopes of tightening up will not be helped by an injury to Jose Gimenez, who hobbled off and may not be fit to face Chelsea. "League campaigns are always the same, with big moments, difficulties, obstacles, for everyone, not only for Atletico Madrid," Simeone said. "The teams that are strong in those moments are the ones that will achieve their objectives." Due to rearranged fixtures, they were facing Levante for the second time in four days and Levante proved their draw in midweek was no fluke, even if they had to survive 28 Atletico shots before the final whistle blew. Luis Suarez went closest to finding an equaliser, his bending free-kick in the second half coming back off the post. Suarez has now gone three league games without scoring for the first time this season. Jose Luis Morales had already put Levante in front with a deflected finish off Felipe and while Atletico huffed and puffed, they were unable to find a way past Levante's inspired goalkeeper Dani Cardenas. Cardenas made 10 saves, the most from any La Liga keeper without conceding this term. Atletico's goalkeeper Jan Oblak then went up for a corner in injury-time, leaving Jorge de Frutos to make it two from the halfway line by launching into an open net. "In the first half we were flat," said Simeone. "In the second we created a lot of chances, Suarez hit the post -- there was a lot of positives to take." For an hour, it looked like Real Madrid might suffer similar frustration against a determined Valladolid, who would have led had it not been for a string of excellent saves by Thibaut Courtois. Courtois had to pull off a double stop to deny Fabian Orellana and Saidy Janko in the first half and then in the second blocked Orellana, who had been bizarrely set up by Ferland Mendy launching a ball across his own penalty area. The Belgian kept Madrid in it and then Casemiro put them in front. Casemiro had been allowed two free headers already by Valladolid's defence and he pounced at the third opportunity, nodding in Toni Kroos' free-kick to give Real Madrid hope.

Real Madrid close on top spot after Atletico stumble again

Real Madrid's French duo Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy struck in the second half as the Spanish champions overcame an injury crisis to beat Getafe 2-0 at home on Tuesday and close the gap to La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid to five points.

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Benzema leapt to connect with a curling cross from Vinicius Jr. and head Real in front on the hour mark, giving the hosts a deserved lead after dominating the first half against an unambitious Getafe side who had only one shot on goal all game.

French left-back Ferland Mendy doubled their lead six minutes later, starting the move with a bursting run through midfield before sliding in to knock home a cross from Marcelo.

The victory took Zinedine Zidane's side into second in the standings and left them five points below Atletico, who drew 2-2 with Celta Vigo on Monday to end an eight-game winning streak but have two games in hand.

"This win gives us a lot of confidence, I think we are on our way back to our best," said Benzema.

"Getafe always makes things difficult for you but we put in a big performance. We're just focusing on ourselves, we're not looking at the league table but we're going to try to win every game because there's still a long way to go in the season."

Real were missing nine first-team players through injury or suspension, which led Zidane to field an unorthodox 3-4-3 formation which was particularly effective down the left-hand side due to the twin threat of left-backs Mendy and Marcelo.

He also gave 20-year-old midfielder Marvin Park his first start for the club, although the youngster only lasted 55 minutes before being taken off for 19-year-old Sergio Arribas.

Defender Victor Chust also came on late to make his league debut.

Real Madrid's French duo Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy struck in the second half as the Spanish champions overcame an injury crisis to beat Getafe 2-0 at home on Tuesday and close the gap to La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid to five points.

Real Madrid's French duo Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy struck in the second half as the Spanish champions overcame an injury crisis to beat Getafe 2-0 at home on Tuesday and close the gap to La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid to five points. ALSO READ: Juventus hold Inter to book spot in Coppa Italia final Benzema leapt to connect with a curling cross from Vinicius Jr. and head Real in front on the hour mark, giving the hosts a deserved lead after dominating the first half against an unambitious Getafe side who had only one shot on goal all game. French left-back Ferland Mendy doubled their lead six minutes later, starting the move with a bursting run through midfield before sliding in to knock home a cross from Marcelo. The victory took Zinedine Zidane's side into second in the standings and left them five points below Atletico, who drew 2-2 with Celta Vigo on Monday to end an eight-game winning streak but have two games in hand. "This win gives us a lot of confidence, I think we are on our way back to our best," said Benzema. "Getafe always makes things difficult for you but we put in a big performance. We're just focusing on ourselves, we're not looking at the league table but we're going to try to win every game because there's still a long way to go in the season." Real were missing nine first-team players through injury or suspension, which led Zidane to field an unorthodox 3-4-3 formation which was particularly effective down the left-hand side due to the twin threat of left-backs Mendy and Marcelo. He also gave 20-year-old midfielder Marvin Park his first start for the club, although the youngster only lasted 55 minutes before being taken off for 19-year-old Sergio Arribas. Defender Victor Chust also came on late to make his league debut.

Real Madrid see off Getafe to revive hopes of catching Atletico

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.&nbsp;

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Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand.&nbsp;

Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. &nbsp;

"What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca.

"I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect.

"We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season.

"Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back."

Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month.&nbsp;

"I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race. ALSO READ: Leicester's Jamie Vardy available for Sunday clash after hernia surgery Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand. Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. "What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca. "I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect. "We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season. "Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back." Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month. "I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

'I don't deserve to be treated like that': Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane loses cool

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury.

Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt.

The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone."

Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half.&nbsp;

"He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us."

Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros.&nbsp;

"We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more."

Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack.&nbsp;

There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth.&nbsp;

Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post.&nbsp;

Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner.&nbsp;

Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho.&nbsp;

Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner.

Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third.

The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches.

Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes.

Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19. Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury. Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt. The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday. "The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone." Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half. "He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us." Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival. The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros. "We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more." Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack. There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth. Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post. Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner. Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho. Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner. Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third. The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches. Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes. Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.

Hazard leads Real Madrid to Alaves rout to relieve pressure on Zidane

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday.

The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit.

"Real Madrid C.F. report that our coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19," the club said in a statement.

Zidane already had to self-isolate this month after coming into contact with a person infected with the virus.

He tested negative at the time and was able to oversee the team.

After successive defeats in the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey, the second a shock loss to third-tier Alcoyano, Zidane is again under pressure as Real Madrid try to reignite their La Liga title challenge away to Alaves.

Zidane's side are playing catch-up to Atletico Madrid after draws against struggling Elche and Osasuna, two of the league's bottom three, in recent weeks.

Alaves beat Madrid 2-1 in the capital in late November but have won just once in eight matches since, their slide into a relegation scrap costing coach Pablo Machin his job last week with former Spain international Abelardo Fernandez returning to take charge.

Real assistant coach David Bettoni said that Zidane was "fine" after his positive test, although "sad" not to be among the players.

"I spoke with the coach this morning and he is fine," said Bettoni.

"He was a little sad this morning not to be with us. He will not physically be with us, but we all know that he will be with us supporting.

"He will not be with us physically during tomorrow's game, but he will be with us to support the players, give his energy and help everyone."

Bettoni also played down talk of Zidane's future after their Copa del Rey embarrassment.

"You know the boss, he likes football, it's his passion. He is fortunate to coach this great club. In football it is a complicated time, but he is in good spirits," said Bettoni.

"I see him every morning with a smile, with joy, wanting to train. We want to carry on, we are fortunate to train at this club, so we enjoy them every day with our players."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday. The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday. The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit. "Real Madrid C.F. report that our coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19," the club said in a statement. Zidane already had to self-isolate this month after coming into contact with a person infected with the virus. He tested negative at the time and was able to oversee the team. After successive defeats in the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey, the second a shock loss to third-tier Alcoyano, Zidane is again under pressure as Real Madrid try to reignite their La Liga title challenge away to Alaves. Zidane's side are playing catch-up to Atletico Madrid after draws against struggling Elche and Osasuna, two of the league's bottom three, in recent weeks. Alaves beat Madrid 2-1 in the capital in late November but have won just once in eight matches since, their slide into a relegation scrap costing coach Pablo Machin his job last week with former Spain international Abelardo Fernandez returning to take charge. Real assistant coach David Bettoni said that Zidane was "fine" after his positive test, although "sad" not to be among the players. "I spoke with the coach this morning and he is fine," said Bettoni. "He was a little sad this morning not to be with us. He will not physically be with us, but we all know that he will be with us supporting. "He will not be with us physically during tomorrow's game, but he will be with us to support the players, give his energy and help everyone." Bettoni also played down talk of Zidane's future after their Copa del Rey embarrassment. "You know the boss, he likes football, it's his passion. He is fortunate to coach this great club. In football it is a complicated time, but he is in good spirits," said Bettoni. "I see him every morning with a smile, with joy, wanting to train. We want to carry on, we are fortunate to train at this club, so we enjoy them every day with our players."

Real Madrid coach Zidane positive for Covid-19: club

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future.&nbsp;

Humiliated in the cup by Segunda B's Alcoyano, a week after being outfought and largely outplayed in the Spanish Super Cup by Athletic Bilbao, Madrid find themselves in another slump.&nbsp;

Their season might well finish without a trophy, with Atletico Madrid marching on in La Liga and Europe's elite stretching the gap even further away from Spain's once formidable trio in the Champions League.&nbsp;

But more worrying is that this appears to be a squad now in desperate need of renovation and a team shorn of the strengths that took them to the title only six months ago.&nbsp;

The question is whether Zidane is the person for a rebuild, or even now if he wants to be. Asked if he still has the backing of the players on Wednesday, Zidane said: "I believe so, you have to ask them. We've done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work.&nbsp;

"Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can't answer that."

Zidane has never been a coach to impose a clear identity, his numerous successes drawing suspicion in part because they seemed to arrive from nowhere, without a crescendo to give them more credibility.&nbsp;

But they were always built on a solid defence, a dependable core and a relentless will to win that meant close games became narrow victories and pressure periods brought a reaction.&nbsp;

Zidane needs another reaction now, starting at Mendizorrotza against Alaves on Saturday, like when Madrid won the Clasico at Camp Nou in October, and rattled off six victories on the bounce in December, each time after their coach's position had come under scrutiny.&nbsp;

The difference this time is not just the scale of the failure against Alcoyano - who have not played in the top flight in half a century - but that it left Zidane accused of ignoring the future too.&nbsp;

His reliance on a select core was underlined by the poor performances of fringe players like Isco, Marcelo and Eder Militao, who looked short of sharpness and, perhaps, motivation.

Even more jarring for those higher up the club may have been the struggles of Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde and Alvaro Odriozola, youngsters once circled as players that could be part of a new era.

And what about those not there? Luka Jovic was sent back on loan to Eintracht Frankfurt and scored twice for them in 28 minutes.

Or Martin Odegaard, who was recalled early from his loan at Real Sociedad only to be left searching this month for another exit. Sergio Reguilon is at Tottenham, Dani Ceballos at Arsenal.

Zidane has decelerated the transition, perhaps because it was by relying on the old guard that Real Madrid beat Barcelona to the league last term.

And when Zidane demanded change in the summer of 2019, his first transfer window after coming back, it was the club that failed to deliver.

Eden Hazard, Jovic, Ferland Mendy, Militao and Rodrygo were signed for around 300 million euros but only Mendy at left-back has consistently improved the first team. Zidane's priorities, like Paul Pogba, were overlooked.

Nobody could have predicted those arrivals would have to last Real Madrid two seasons, the pandemic strangling the club financially meaning there were no new signings last year.

But their lack of impact has been laid bare, the price of failing to update growing ever more costly.

Zidane has always been trusted to pull Madrid out of a mess but never to build something new. When they won the title last season, it papered over the cracks, a testament to his ability to manage and motivate but the need for renewal remained.

Zidane wanted change in exchange for coming back. The change the club is now pondering is their coach.

<h2>Fixtures&nbsp;(all times GMT)</h2>

Friday

Levante v Real Sociedad (2100)

Saturday

Huesca v Villarreal (1400), Sevilla v Cadiz (1615), Real Sociedad v Real Betis (1830), Alaves v Real Madrid (2100)

Sunday

Osasuna v Granada (1400), Elche v Barcelona (1615), Celta Vigo v Eibar (1830), Atletico Madrid (2100)

Monday

Athletic Club v Getafe

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future.

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future. Humiliated in the cup by Segunda B's Alcoyano, a week after being outfought and largely outplayed in the Spanish Super Cup by Athletic Bilbao, Madrid find themselves in another slump. Their season might well finish without a trophy, with Atletico Madrid marching on in La Liga and Europe's elite stretching the gap even further away from Spain's once formidable trio in the Champions League. But more worrying is that this appears to be a squad now in desperate need of renovation and a team shorn of the strengths that took them to the title only six months ago. The question is whether Zidane is the person for a rebuild, or even now if he wants to be. Asked if he still has the backing of the players on Wednesday, Zidane said: "I believe so, you have to ask them. We've done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work. "Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can't answer that." Zidane has never been a coach to impose a clear identity, his numerous successes drawing suspicion in part because they seemed to arrive from nowhere, without a crescendo to give them more credibility. But they were always built on a solid defence, a dependable core and a relentless will to win that meant close games became narrow victories and pressure periods brought a reaction. Zidane needs another reaction now, starting at Mendizorrotza against Alaves on Saturday, like when Madrid won the Clasico at Camp Nou in October, and rattled off six victories on the bounce in December, each time after their coach's position had come under scrutiny. The difference this time is not just the scale of the failure against Alcoyano - who have not played in the top flight in half a century - but that it left Zidane accused of ignoring the future too. His reliance on a select core was underlined by the poor performances of fringe players like Isco, Marcelo and Eder Militao, who looked short of sharpness and, perhaps, motivation. Even more jarring for those higher up the club may have been the struggles of Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde and Alvaro Odriozola, youngsters once circled as players that could be part of a new era. And what about those not there? Luka Jovic was sent back on loan to Eintracht Frankfurt and scored twice for them in 28 minutes. Or Martin Odegaard, who was recalled early from his loan at Real Sociedad only to be left searching this month for another exit. Sergio Reguilon is at Tottenham, Dani Ceballos at Arsenal. Zidane has decelerated the transition, perhaps because it was by relying on the old guard that Real Madrid beat Barcelona to the league last term. And when Zidane demanded change in the summer of 2019, his first transfer window after coming back, it was the club that failed to deliver. Eden Hazard, Jovic, Ferland Mendy, Militao and Rodrygo were signed for around 300 million euros but only Mendy at left-back has consistently improved the first team. Zidane's priorities, like Paul Pogba, were overlooked. Nobody could have predicted those arrivals would have to last Real Madrid two seasons, the pandemic strangling the club financially meaning there were no new signings last year. But their lack of impact has been laid bare, the price of failing to update growing ever more costly. Zidane has always been trusted to pull Madrid out of a mess but never to build something new. When they won the title last season, it papered over the cracks, a testament to his ability to manage and motivate but the need for renewal remained. Zidane wanted change in exchange for coming back. The change the club is now pondering is their coach. Fixtures (all times GMT) Friday Levante v Real Sociedad (2100) Saturday Huesca v Villarreal (1400), Sevilla v Cadiz (1615), Real Sociedad v Real Betis (1830), Alaves v Real Madrid (2100) Sunday Osasuna v Granada (1400), Elche v Barcelona (1615), Celta Vigo v Eibar (1830), Atletico Madrid (2100) Monday Athletic Club v Getafe

Resistance to change leaves Madrid and Zidane pondering futures again

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said.

The Frenchman had been self-isolating since Thursday after contact with a person infected with the virus.

"He's negative and the league have given him their okay," the source told AFP.

Real Madrid are second in La Liga after a run of seven wins in eight games, including a crucial win over leaders Atletico Madrid who are two points ahead with two games in hand.

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said.

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said. The Frenchman had been self-isolating since Thursday after contact with a person infected with the virus. "He's negative and the league have given him their okay," the source told AFP. Real Madrid are second in La Liga after a run of seven wins in eight games, including a crucial win over leaders Atletico Madrid who are two points ahead with two games in hand.

Real Madrid coach Zidane gets Covid clearance

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers.

After letting go&nbsp;Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-southampton-boss-ralph-hasenhuttl-cries-tears-of-joy-as-saints-defeat-liverpool-354575" hreflang="en">Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool</a>

Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi."

Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-to-continue-during-new-english-lockdown-354549" hreflang="en">Premier League to continue during new English lockdown</a>

Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract. Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers. After letting go Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi. ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi." Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends. ALSO READ: Premier League to continue during new English lockdown Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos to join PSG? Real Madrid star makes stunning revelation

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