Egypt forward Mohamed Salah remains a doubt to face Uruguay in their World Cup opener at Yekaterinburg on Friday, the country's football association has said.

The Liverpool player, who sustained a shoulder injury in the Champions League final against Real Madrid last month, took part in light training on Monday but the Egyptian FA's managing director Ehab Lehita said it was too early to say whether he would play against the South Americans.

"He is gradually getting better. However, I cannot confirm today that he will play in the first match," Lehita said of the 25-year-old, who scored 44 goals for Liverpool last season.

"All I can say is that we hope he will play in this match."

Egypt also face Saudi Arabia and hosts Russia in Group A.

"He is gradually getting better. However, I cannot confirm today that he will play in the first match," Lehita said of the 25-year-old, who scored 44 goals for Liverpool last season.

Egypt forward Mohamed Salah remains a doubt to face Uruguay in their World Cup opener at Yekaterinburg on Friday, the country's football association has said. The Liverpool player, who sustained a shoulder injury in the Champions League final against Real Madrid last month, took part in light training on Monday but the Egyptian FA's managing director Ehab Lehita said it was too early to say whether he would play against the South Americans. "He is gradually getting better. However, I cannot confirm today that he will play in the first match," Lehita said of the 25-year-old, who scored 44 goals for Liverpool last season. "All I can say is that we hope he will play in this match." Egypt also face Saudi Arabia and hosts Russia in Group A.

Mohamed Salah still a doubt for World Cup opener against Uruguay

Law enforcement and regulatory forces in Asia say they are gearing up to fight illegal gambling operators who have ramped up activities in the region ahead of the World Cup, making use of savvy technology and cryptocurrencies to evade prosecution.

Illegal gambling on the cup is prevalent in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, where football is hugely popular, but which don't have legal betting alternatives, gambling industry experts say.

Even in South Korea and the Chinese territory of Hong Kong - where betting is legal under registered bodies - illegal gambling on average dwarfs the legal market, they say.

Illegal bookmakers have shifted to online and mobile platforms, which offer a wider range of betting options than legal vendors, making it harder for enforcement agencies to police, the experts say.

Hong Kong and Macau police have said crime syndicates have often used platforms like WeChat to place bets.

Online payment providers and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have also made it easier for illegal operators to facilitate illegal bets, according to Interpol, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, which runs Hong Kong's horse racing and football betting franchise.

"There is a need to develop and execute a sustainable enforcement strategy for a lasting impact against illegal betting and related transnational organised crime," said Martin Purbrick, the club's director of security and integrity.

The Jockey Club estimates Hong Kong's illegal betting turnover this year, including the World Cup, will be at least $68 billion, compared to $6.5 billion in Singapore and $79 billion in South Korea annually.

Hong Kong earns around 5 per cent of its budget from taxing legal gambling and views illegal betting as lost potential revenue. The Jockey Club put the potential loss at about HK$13 billion ($1.7 billion) this year.

Illegal bookmakers in Hong Kong are expected to reap HK$750 million during the World Cup alone, the club said.

Illegal betting this year is expected to be far larger than during the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil, helped by the closer time zones between Russia and countries in the Asia region, according to gambling industry executives.

Asia accounts for 80 per cent of the estimated $500 billion in illegal betting volumes globally, according to Transparency International and the Asian Racing Federation.

Much of the illegal betting is facilitated by companies registered offshore, particularly in the Philippines, which sells online betting licenses to operators.

While operators can claim to be licensed in the Philippines, their sites are illegal in most jurisdictions in Asia, including Hong Kong and South Korea.

Since 2016, Philippine authorities have clamped down on illegal betting operators but there has still been a proliferation in the number of sites in operation, according to officials and executives in the country.

Alfredo Lim, president of PAGCOR, the Philippine gaming regulator, said the bureau was collaborating with government agencies to fight illegal gambling.

"We lose millions from unlawful gambling," Lim said.

In South Korea, police said they would closely monitor illegal sports betting during the World Cup. Hong Kong police said they were conducting a large anti-gambling operation called "Crowbreak" to crack down on illegal gambling activities.

Macau, the world's biggest gambling centre, is expected to see revenues squeezed in June due to more Chinese gamblers wagering on the World Cup than in the enclave's glitzy casinos, according to gaming analysts.

Police in China broke up a large illegal online gambling ring in April, arresting more than 100 people, the Xinhua news agency reported, while Macau police have broken up illegal betting operations conducted via the popular WeChat app.

At the last World Cup in 2014, Interpol said during a six-week operation across China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, law enforcement officers cracked crime gangs estimated to have handled around $2.2 billion worth of bets, mainly through illicit websites.

Illegal gambling on the cup is prevalent in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, where football is hugely popular, but which don't have legal betting alternatives, gambling industry experts say

Law enforcement and regulatory forces in Asia say they are gearing up to fight illegal gambling operators who have ramped up activities in the region ahead of the World Cup, making use of savvy technology and cryptocurrencies to evade prosecution. Illegal gambling on the cup is prevalent in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, where football is hugely popular, but which don't have legal betting alternatives, gambling industry experts say. Even in South Korea and the Chinese territory of Hong Kong - where betting is legal under registered bodies - illegal gambling on average dwarfs the legal market, they say. Illegal bookmakers have shifted to online and mobile platforms, which offer a wider range of betting options than legal vendors, making it harder for enforcement agencies to police, the experts say. Hong Kong and Macau police have said crime syndicates have often used platforms like WeChat to place bets. Online payment providers and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have also made it easier for illegal operators to facilitate illegal bets, according to Interpol, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, which runs Hong Kong's horse racing and football betting franchise. "There is a need to develop and execute a sustainable enforcement strategy for a lasting impact against illegal betting and related transnational organised crime," said Martin Purbrick, the club's director of security and integrity. The Jockey Club estimates Hong Kong's illegal betting turnover this year, including the World Cup, will be at least $68 billion, compared to $6.5 billion in Singapore and $79 billion in South Korea annually. Hong Kong earns around 5 per cent of its budget from taxing legal gambling and views illegal betting as lost potential revenue. The Jockey Club put the potential loss at about HK$13 billion ($1.7 billion) this year. Illegal bookmakers in Hong Kong are expected to reap HK$750 million during the World Cup alone, the club said. Illegal betting this year is expected to be far larger than during the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil, helped by the closer time zones between Russia and countries in the Asia region, according to gambling industry executives. Asia accounts for 80 per cent of the estimated $500 billion in illegal betting volumes globally, according to Transparency International and the Asian Racing Federation. Much of the illegal betting is facilitated by companies registered offshore, particularly in the Philippines, which sells online betting licenses to operators. While operators can claim to be licensed in the Philippines, their sites are illegal in most jurisdictions in Asia, including Hong Kong and South Korea. Since 2016, Philippine authorities have clamped down on illegal betting operators but there has still been a proliferation in the number of sites in operation, according to officials and executives in the country. Alfredo Lim, president of PAGCOR, the Philippine gaming regulator, said the bureau was collaborating with government agencies to fight illegal gambling. "We lose millions from unlawful gambling," Lim said. In South Korea, police said they would closely monitor illegal sports betting during the World Cup. Hong Kong police said they were conducting a large anti-gambling operation called "Crowbreak" to crack down on illegal gambling activities. Macau, the world's biggest gambling centre, is expected to see revenues squeezed in June due to more Chinese gamblers wagering on the World Cup than in the enclave's glitzy casinos, according to gaming analysts. Police in China broke up a large illegal online gambling ring in April, arresting more than 100 people, the Xinhua news agency reported, while Macau police have broken up illegal betting operations conducted via the popular WeChat app. At the last World Cup in 2014, Interpol said during a six-week operation across China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, law enforcement officers cracked crime gangs estimated to have handled around $2.2 billion worth of bets, mainly through illicit websites.

Authorities across Asia battle illegal gambling surge ahead of World Cup

Russia&nbsp;is "100 per cent&nbsp;ready" to host the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup,&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;president Gianni&nbsp;Infantino said on Wednesday as he addressed concerns about racism, human rights and security in the host country a week before the tournament begins.

Russia&nbsp;will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi and&nbsp;Infantino&nbsp;believes that supporters are in for a real treat.

"I think we can say that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is 100 per cent&nbsp;ready&nbsp;and the whole&nbsp;world&nbsp;will actually see it when we kick off on June 14 with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Saudi Arabia in the Luzhniki Stadium,"&nbsp;Infantino&nbsp;said in a video interview.

"Everyone will be able to witness how beautiful the stadiums are, how welcoming the country is, how the organisation and the preparations will work out. It'll be a great experience."

Russia&nbsp;has faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the tournament over issues including fan and team security as well as racism at matches.

FIFA&nbsp;fined&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;30,000 Swiss francs ($30,422) last month for discriminatory chants by fans after racist abuse was directed at French players during a friendly in St Petersburg in March.

"I wouldn't say that I am concerned about discrimination, human rights or security but obviously we take this very, very seriously and we've taken appropriate measures," he added.

"For the first time we have been checking the construction of stadiums, the sites to make sure conditions for the workers are correct... concrete progress has been made in terms of human rights and the way we deal with human rights questions."

Infantino&nbsp;promised a "safe environment" for fans travelling to the event.

"The&nbsp;Russian authorities are aware of the security situation in such a big event," he said. "They are working very hard to prepare in cooperation with police authorities of all governments in the world... to be fully&nbsp;ready&nbsp;to tackle any potential issue.

"Every fan that is coming to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;will be&nbsp;welcome&nbsp;in a safe environment to celebrate. If anyone is thinking to come to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to create trouble, he better stay home."

Russia will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow

Russia is "100 per cent ready" to host the World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday as he addressed concerns about racism, human rights and security in the host country a week before the tournament begins. Russia will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi and Infantino believes that supporters are in for a real treat. "I think we can say that Russia is 100 per cent ready and the whole world will actually see it when we kick off on June 14 with Russia and Saudi Arabia in the Luzhniki Stadium," Infantino said in a video interview. "Everyone will be able to witness how beautiful the stadiums are, how welcoming the country is, how the organisation and the preparations will work out. It'll be a great experience." Russia has faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the tournament over issues including fan and team security as well as racism at matches. FIFA fined Russia 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,422) last month for discriminatory chants by fans after racist abuse was directed at French players during a friendly in St Petersburg in March. "I wouldn't say that I am concerned about discrimination, human rights or security but obviously we take this very, very seriously and we've taken appropriate measures," he added. "For the first time we have been checking the construction of stadiums, the sites to make sure conditions for the workers are correct... concrete progress has been made in terms of human rights and the way we deal with human rights questions." Infantino promised a "safe environment" for fans travelling to the event. "The Russian authorities are aware of the security situation in such a big event," he said. "They are working very hard to prepare in cooperation with police authorities of all governments in the world... to be fully ready to tackle any potential issue. "Every fan that is coming to Russia will be welcome in a safe environment to celebrate. If anyone is thinking to come to Russia to create trouble, he better stay home."

FIFA World Cup: Russia ready to welcome the world, says FIFA chief Gianni Infantino

Egypt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nigeria&nbsp;continued their recent poor form in&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event.

Belgium eased past&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week.

Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime.

Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia.

Egypt&nbsp;was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector&nbsp;Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15.

Nigeria&nbsp;turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.

Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.

Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated.

The&nbsp;Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week.

Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King.

Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played.

But Palestinian football officials praised&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa.

“The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week

Egypt and Nigeria continued their recent poor form in World Cup warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event. Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week. Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime. Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia. Egypt was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15. Nigeria turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the World Cup. Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated. The Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week. Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King. Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World Cup finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half. Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played. But Palestinian football officials praised World Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa. “The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah. Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

FIFA World Cup: Egypt, Nigeria continue to splutter in World Cup warm-ups

While moribund in Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State (IS) group poses a real threat to Russia's World Cup that must be taken seriously, security experts warn.

Alarm bells have been ringing since disturbing photo-montages began to appear on social media late last year, the work of the IS propaganda arm known as the Wafa Media Foundation.

Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions.

Lying on the ground, with knives up against their throats or dying in flames, the message accompanying them was blunt.

"You will not enjoy security until we live it in Muslim countries," the posts said.

Brian Glyn Williams and Robert Troy Souza, authors of a report published last month by West Point's Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) on the dangers IS poses to the June 14 to July 15 World Cup, said the propaganda campaign unfurled by IS was "unprecedented".

"In just the past few years, there have been numerous successful terror attacks or thwarted plots in Russia by terrorists linked to or inspired by the Islamic state," they wrote.

"This suggests the group may have the capacity to launch attacks in Russia during the World Cup."

Lone wolves

These attacks, said the US experts, can be either carried out by "lone wolves" -- assailants who act on their own after being inculcated by IS propaganda -- or by local jihadists.

The latter include Russians and people from Chechnya and the rest of the Caucasus and central Asia, two regions with established links to IS stretching back for over a decade.

They mostly comprise fighters who had recently returned from Syria and Iraq after winding down their campaign to create an ephemeral Islamic "caliphate" in the Middle East.

Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that around 8,500 jihadists from Russia and the former Soviet central Asia have joined the ranks of IS and other jihadist groups in the region.

The exact number of those who have managed to slip through anti-terror services' hands and safely return to their homelands is unclear.

But experts are certain that prior to its territorial rout, IS instructed some of its fighters to go back and form sleeper cells that could be called upon when needed -- such as during a World Cup.

Even if Russia had not intervened in Syria on President Bashar al-Assad's behalf, the world's most watched event would still have been a target of jihadists, said Pascal Boniface, director of the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, who specialises in geopolitics and football.

"The threat of terror now exists for all international sports competitions. They attract the cameras and, therefore, the terrorists," Boniface said.

"Russia's intervention in Syria is an aggravating factor, but it is not what created this problem," said the French analyst.

"There would still be a terror threat without it."

Soft targets

Even before Russia, security measures at the Euro 2016 football championship in France, as well as the 2014 London and 2016 Rio Summer Games were already draconian.

In March 2016, just three months before Euro 2016 was due to kick off, France's then prime minister Manuel Valls announced the arrest in the Paris region of a hardened jihadist who "surely had the Euro in his sights".

"Today, whenever you have a global sports event, the biggest part of the budget goes to security," said Boniface.

Whether they are followed by an attack or not, the act of posting threats online with just a few clicks costs nothing for IS and its sympathisers.

Yet these are followed by security operations that could run to tens and even hundreds of millions of dollars.

With 64 matches played across 12 stadiums in 11 cities spanning the European part of Russia, the World Cup offers an abundance of potential places to strike, CTC warns.

"While the World Cup venues are hard targets that are set to be protected by multiple layers of security, there will be no shortage of soft targets that terrorists could hit," it says.

In Moscow, the authorities are trying to strike a reassuring tone.

They point out that the 2014 Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort of Sochi were staged on the edge of the north Caucasus and still passed off without a hitch.

"Our security operation is taking into account all types of possible dangers and risks," World Cup organising committee chief Alexei Sorokin told AFP.

"Everything is under control and I hope that we will find the right balance between comfort and security, without tilting to one side or the other."

Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions

While moribund in Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State (IS) group poses a real threat to Russia's World Cup that must be taken seriously, security experts warn. Alarm bells have been ringing since disturbing photo-montages began to appear on social media late last year, the work of the IS propaganda arm known as the Wafa Media Foundation. Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions. Lying on the ground, with knives up against their throats or dying in flames, the message accompanying them was blunt. "You will not enjoy security until we live it in Muslim countries," the posts said. Brian Glyn Williams and Robert Troy Souza, authors of a report published last month by West Point's Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) on the dangers IS poses to the June 14 to July 15 World Cup, said the propaganda campaign unfurled by IS was "unprecedented". "In just the past few years, there have been numerous successful terror attacks or thwarted plots in Russia by terrorists linked to or inspired by the Islamic state," they wrote. "This suggests the group may have the capacity to launch attacks in Russia during the World Cup." Lone wolves These attacks, said the US experts, can be either carried out by "lone wolves" -- assailants who act on their own after being inculcated by IS propaganda -- or by local jihadists. The latter include Russians and people from Chechnya and the rest of the Caucasus and central Asia, two regions with established links to IS stretching back for over a decade. They mostly comprise fighters who had recently returned from Syria and Iraq after winding down their campaign to create an ephemeral Islamic "caliphate" in the Middle East. Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that around 8,500 jihadists from Russia and the former Soviet central Asia have joined the ranks of IS and other jihadist groups in the region. The exact number of those who have managed to slip through anti-terror services' hands and safely return to their homelands is unclear. But experts are certain that prior to its territorial rout, IS instructed some of its fighters to go back and form sleeper cells that could be called upon when needed -- such as during a World Cup. Even if Russia had not intervened in Syria on President Bashar al-Assad's behalf, the world's most watched event would still have been a target of jihadists, said Pascal Boniface, director of the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, who specialises in geopolitics and football. "The threat of terror now exists for all international sports competitions. They attract the cameras and, therefore, the terrorists," Boniface said. "Russia's intervention in Syria is an aggravating factor, but it is not what created this problem," said the French analyst. "There would still be a terror threat without it." Soft targets Even before Russia, security measures at the Euro 2016 football championship in France, as well as the 2014 London and 2016 Rio Summer Games were already draconian. In March 2016, just three months before Euro 2016 was due to kick off, France's then prime minister Manuel Valls announced the arrest in the Paris region of a hardened jihadist who "surely had the Euro in his sights". "Today, whenever you have a global sports event, the biggest part of the budget goes to security," said Boniface. Whether they are followed by an attack or not, the act of posting threats online with just a few clicks costs nothing for IS and its sympathisers. Yet these are followed by security operations that could run to tens and even hundreds of millions of dollars. With 64 matches played across 12 stadiums in 11 cities spanning the European part of Russia, the World Cup offers an abundance of potential places to strike, CTC warns. "While the World Cup venues are hard targets that are set to be protected by multiple layers of security, there will be no shortage of soft targets that terrorists could hit," it says. In Moscow, the authorities are trying to strike a reassuring tone. They point out that the 2014 Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort of Sochi were staged on the edge of the north Caucasus and still passed off without a hitch. "Our security operation is taking into account all types of possible dangers and risks," World Cup organising committee chief Alexei Sorokin told AFP. "Everything is under control and I hope that we will find the right balance between comfort and security, without tilting to one side or the other."

Islamic State threat hangs over Russia World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United.&nbsp;

In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million.

Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017.&nbsp;

In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo:

1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem.

2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro.

3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol.

4.&nbsp;He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos.

5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second.

6.&nbsp;That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session.

7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt.

8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal.

9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published.

10. He&nbsp;never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

In 2009, Ronaldo moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United. In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million. Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017. In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo: 1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem. 2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. 3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol. 4. He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos. 5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second. 6. That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session. 7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt. 8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal. 9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published. 10. He never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the world's highest-paid athlete: 10 interesting facts about the Portugal star

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3).

The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style.

Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time.

Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille.

"I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr.

Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014.

He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August.

The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia.

Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3). The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style. Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time. Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille. "I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr. Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014. He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August. The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia. Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Watch: Don't want to be better than Zico, Pele, says Brazil's Neymar

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer.

He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far.

Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer.

Lionel Messi: 62

Cristiano Ronaldo: 61

David Villa: 59

Sunil Chhetri: 59

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">‘Abuse us... but </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">come</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860"> watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri</a>

"I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer. He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa. Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far. Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer. Lionel Messi: 62 Cristiano Ronaldo: 61 David Villa: 59 Sunil Chhetri: 59 ‘Abuse us... but come watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri "I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

After Ronaldo & Messi, this Indian footballer is the 3rd-most active international goalscorer

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14&nbsp;and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3&nbsp;formation.&nbsp;

Coach: Joachim Low

Goalkeeper -

David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Defender -&nbsp;

Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the&nbsp;semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable.&nbsp;

Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team.

Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back.

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad.

<img alt="De Gea.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="770" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/De%20Gea.jpg" width="430" />

Midfielders -&nbsp;

Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His&nbsp;campaign in&nbsp;the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success.

N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding&nbsp;in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign.

James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team.

Forwards -&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was&nbsp;remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup.

Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team.

Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

A collation of dream XI for the football World Cup which will kick off from June 14

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14 and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3 formation. Coach: Joachim Low Goalkeeper - David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Defender - Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable. Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back. Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad. Midfielders - Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His campaign in the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success. N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign. James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team. Forwards - Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup. Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team. Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

With 11 days to go, here is WION's Dream XI for the World Cup

Real Madrid's final Champions League rehearsal was running perfectly on Saturday until Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted and Villarreal scored twice to snatch a 2-2 draw.

Gareth Bale and Ronaldo put Real in cruise control at the Estadio de la Ceramica but the Portugese, along with Luka Modric, was taken off shortly after the hour and Villarreal came surging back.

It was two substitutes that did it, Roger Martinez unleashing a stunning strike into the top corner before Samu Castillejo struck the equaliser five minutes from time.&nbsp

Castillejo took advantage of some hesitation from Luca Zidane, Zinedine Zidane's 20-year-old son, who was making his debut for Real in goal.

"I am happy for his debut, it is an important day for him and his coach," Zidane senior said afterwards.&nbsp

"For his father, we will see what he says at home."

The draw means any hopes Real had of snatching La Liga's runner-up spot off city rivals Atletico are ended but their attention will quickly turn to Liverpool and next weekend's showdown in Kiev. Villarreal jump above Real Betis into fifth.

If Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp had been spying for signs of weakness he would have found few in the opening hour, when Real looked slick, clinical and set for a comfortable victory.&nbsp

But, defensive frailties were exposed again and perhaps this result underlines that if Ronaldo can be neutralised, this is still a team that is far from unbeatable.

"We are ready," Zidane said. "We have not had any injuries today and we are ready to play our last match and our final."

Ronaldo was withdrawn after 61 minutes, the 33-year-old showing no sign of discomfort in what was his first outing since spraining his ankle against Barcelona a fortnight ago.&nbsp

Bale too will hope his smart turn and finish could yet earn him a starting spot against Liverpool, even if Zidane has shown propensity for ignoring the Welshman's league form in the past.&nbsp

After scoring twice against Celta Vigo last weekend, Bale was excellent again here and he at least heads to Ukraine knowing he could not have done much more. He has now scored 17 goals in 19 matches this year when playing more than 60 minutes.

"Gareth has never lowered his level," Zidane said. "I am happy with his role, for what he does, he has not changed anything."

- Zidane names strong side -

Liverpool will have played only one match in 20 days by next weekend and Zidane opted for rhythm over rest, picking a strong team that could be close to his line-up in seven days' time.&nbsp

The Frenchman, however, has tended towards caution in Europe and it would be a surprise if Bale and Isco both started ahead of Lucas Vazquez, and even Marco Asensio, next weekend.

There was a debut in goal for Zidane's son Luca, who joined Real's academy when Zidane was playing for the club in 2004 and has been a regular presence in the squad this season.&nbsp

Luca was born in May 1998, a month before his father inspired France to win the World Cup.&nbsp

Bale opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a goal largely of his own making as he fooled Daniele Bonera by running over Modric's pass, before driving into the bottom corner.&nbsp

Ronaldo doubled the advantage before half-time, nodding home a nonchalant Marcelo cross from the outside of the Brazilian's foot as Real strolled into the interval.

But Ronaldo and Modric trundled off and the game turned on a brilliant shot from Martinez, who jinked inside from the left and found the far top corner.

If Luca Zidane could have done little to stop that one, he might have done better with the equaliser as he rushed out to intercept a clipped ball over the top but failed to claim.&nbsp

Castillejo touched it round his flailing opponent and clipped a sharp finish into the empty net.&nbsp

Earlier in the day, Sevilla maintained their strong end to the season with a 1-0 win over Alaves. They finish seventh, below Real Betis, who slipped to a surprise 3-2 defeat at Leganes.&nbsp

Real Madrid's final Champions League rehearsal was running perfectly on Saturday until Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted and Villarreal scored twice to snatch a 2-2 draw

Real Madrid's final Champions League rehearsal was running perfectly on Saturday until Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted and Villarreal scored twice to snatch a 2-2 draw. Gareth Bale and Ronaldo put Real in cruise control at the Estadio de la Ceramica but the Portugese, along with Luka Modric, was taken off shortly after the hour and Villarreal came surging back. It was two substitutes that did it, Roger Martinez unleashing a stunning strike into the top corner before Samu Castillejo struck the equaliser five minutes from time. Castillejo took advantage of some hesitation from Luca Zidane, Zinedine Zidane's 20-year-old son, who was making his debut for Real in goal. "I am happy for his debut, it is an important day for him and his coach," Zidane senior said afterwards. "For his father, we will see what he says at home." The draw means any hopes Real had of snatching La Liga's runner-up spot off city rivals Atletico are ended but their attention will quickly turn to Liverpool and next weekend's showdown in Kiev. Villarreal jump above Real Betis into fifth. If Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp had been spying for signs of weakness he would have found few in the opening hour, when Real looked slick, clinical and set for a comfortable victory. But, defensive frailties were exposed again and perhaps this result underlines that if Ronaldo can be neutralised, this is still a team that is far from unbeatable. "We are ready," Zidane said. "We have not had any injuries today and we are ready to play our last match and our final." Ronaldo was withdrawn after 61 minutes, the 33-year-old showing no sign of discomfort in what was his first outing since spraining his ankle against Barcelona a fortnight ago. Bale too will hope his smart turn and finish could yet earn him a starting spot against Liverpool, even if Zidane has shown propensity for ignoring the Welshman's league form in the past. After scoring twice against Celta Vigo last weekend, Bale was excellent again here and he at least heads to Ukraine knowing he could not have done much more. He has now scored 17 goals in 19 matches this year when playing more than 60 minutes. "Gareth has never lowered his level," Zidane said. "I am happy with his role, for what he does, he has not changed anything." - Zidane names strong side - Liverpool will have played only one match in 20 days by next weekend and Zidane opted for rhythm over rest, picking a strong team that could be close to his line-up in seven days' time. The Frenchman, however, has tended towards caution in Europe and it would be a surprise if Bale and Isco both started ahead of Lucas Vazquez, and even Marco Asensio, next weekend. There was a debut in goal for Zidane's son Luca, who joined Real's academy when Zidane was playing for the club in 2004 and has been a regular presence in the squad this season. Luca was born in May 1998, a month before his father inspired France to win the World Cup. Bale opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a goal largely of his own making as he fooled Daniele Bonera by running over Modric's pass, before driving into the bottom corner. Ronaldo doubled the advantage before half-time, nodding home a nonchalant Marcelo cross from the outside of the Brazilian's foot as Real strolled into the interval. But Ronaldo and Modric trundled off and the game turned on a brilliant shot from Martinez, who jinked inside from the left and found the far top corner. If Luca Zidane could have done little to stop that one, he might have done better with the equaliser as he rushed out to intercept a clipped ball over the top but failed to claim. Castillejo touched it round his flailing opponent and clipped a sharp finish into the empty net. Earlier in the day, Sevilla maintained their strong end to the season with a 1-0 win over Alaves. They finish seventh, below Real Betis, who slipped to a surprise 3-2 defeat at Leganes.

Ronaldo and Bale score in Real Madrid draw against Villarreal

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could have played together at Arsenal had things worked out differently.

Arsene Wenger, who took charge of the final game of his 22-year reign on Sunday, revealed how he tried to sign both in 2003.&nbsp

Ronaldo went to Manchester United before joining Real Madrid and Wenger was unable to prise Messi from Barcelona.

“The obvious player [Arsenal missed out on] that comes to mind is Ronaldo. He was here with his mother and we were very close. Then Man United came in and they had Carlos Queiroz at the time, who was their coach. United played against Sporting Lisbon and Ronaldo was outstanding and they signed him. Wenger said.&nbsp

“There is always something you could have done differently but the problem of negotiations is to know when you give in and when you don’t give in. Once we were at £4.5m, we were still in negotiations. David [Dein] met with [the agent Jorge] Mendes in Paris and he was representing Sporting, so we were very close but Man United went to £12m, which we could not afford.

“I met Cesc [Fàbregas’s] parents and at the time we were interested in Messi and [Gerard] Piqué as well. We tried for the three but of course, it didn’t work out ... because of the agents. With Messi, Barcelona didn’t want to lose him of course and they made [the offer] that was needed to keep the player at the club.”

Wenger revealed how he tried to sign both in 2003.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi could have played together at Arsenal had things worked out differently. Arsene Wenger, who took charge of the final game of his 22-year reign on Sunday, revealed how he tried to sign both in 2003. Ronaldo went to Manchester United before joining Real Madrid and Wenger was unable to prise Messi from Barcelona. “The obvious player [Arsenal missed out on] that comes to mind is Ronaldo. He was here with his mother and we were very close. Then Man United came in and they had Carlos Queiroz at the time, who was their coach. United played against Sporting Lisbon and Ronaldo was outstanding and they signed him. Wenger said. “There is always something you could have done differently but the problem of negotiations is to know when you give in and when you don’t give in. Once we were at £4.5m, we were still in negotiations. David [Dein] met with [the agent Jorge] Mendes in Paris and he was representing Sporting, so we were very close but Man United went to £12m, which we could not afford. “I met Cesc [Fàbregas’s] parents and at the time we were interested in Messi and [Gerard] Piqué as well. We tried for the three but of course, it didn’t work out ... because of the agents. With Messi, Barcelona didn’t want to lose him of course and they made [the offer] that was needed to keep the player at the club.”

Arsenal tried to sign Ronaldo, Messi, reveals Wenger

A pro-Islamic State(IS) organisation which earlier targeted football star Lionel Messi, has now threatened to kill and be head, Cristiano Ronaldo, ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp

A mocked-up image was also released where both Messi and Ronaldo pinned down on the pitch in a packed stadium with knife-wielding terrorists hacking at their necks.

The second poster released shows a militant carrying what appears to be an explosive device into a stadium. It comes with the message: 'Fifa World Cup Russia 2018 - victory will be ours'.

It is the latest in a series of online threats made against this summer's football tournament and Barcelona star Messi has been the target of similar warnings earlier also.&nbsp

Last year, the organization released a chilling image of Messi behind bars with blood-soaked eyes, threatening to unleash violence in this year's football World Cup.&nbsp

The poster released by the Wafa media foundation said: “You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary,” ending with the message "just terrorism", which is the famous American shoe company Nike's tagline "just do it".

The Messi poster was tweeted by SITE intelligence group, a company which tracks terror activities online.

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'The ground will be filled with your blood': <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISIS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISIS</a> fanatics threaten to BEHEAD <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ronaldo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ronaldo</a> in posters warning of attacks at the World Cup <a href="https://t.co/sQLYVo0XTb">pic.twitter.com/sQLYVo0XTb</a>
— Syria Scope En (@Syria_scope_En) <a href="https://twitter.com/Syria_scope_En/status/997043485374021633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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ISIS fanatics threaten to BEHEAD Messi and Ronaldo in posters warning of attacks at WORLD CUP <a href="https://t.co/dLJN0iNGbP">pic.twitter.com/dLJN0iNGbP</a>
— LOVE lies (@Shyne_Davids) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shyne_Davids/status/997050415207284736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The 2018 FIFA World Cup will be played across 11 cities in Russia from June 14 to July 15, when the final will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

Tens of thousands of England fans are expected to base themselves in St. Petersburg for the month-long finals.

St Petersburg, Russia's second largest city, was the scene of a horrific ISIS attack when a briefcase bomb detonated on the underground in April last year, killing 14 people.

The blast was in retaliation to Russia's airstrikes in Syria that have helped bring the regime to its knees.&nbsp

Thousands of Russians from mainly central Asia have travelled to the Middle East to fight for ISIS. 
&nbsp

2018 FIFA World Cup will be played across 11 cities in Russia from June 14 to July 15

A pro-Islamic State(IS) organisation which earlier targeted football star Lionel Messi, has now threatened to kill and be head, Cristiano Ronaldo, ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. A mocked-up image was also released where both Messi and Ronaldo pinned down on the pitch in a packed stadium with knife-wielding terrorists hacking at their necks. The second poster released shows a militant carrying what appears to be an explosive device into a stadium. It comes with the message: 'Fifa World Cup Russia 2018 - victory will be ours'. It is the latest in a series of online threats made against this summer's football tournament and Barcelona star Messi has been the target of similar warnings earlier also. Last year, the organization released a chilling image of Messi behind bars with blood-soaked eyes, threatening to unleash violence in this year's football World Cup. The poster released by the Wafa media foundation said: “You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary,” ending with the message "just terrorism", which is the famous American shoe company Nike's tagline "just do it". The Messi poster was tweeted by SITE intelligence group, a company which tracks terror activities online. 'The ground will be filled with your blood': #ISIS fanatics threaten to BEHEAD #Messi and #Ronaldo in posters warning of attacks at the World Cup pic.twitter.com/sQLYVo0XTb — Syria Scope En (@Syria_scope_En) May 17, 2018 × ISIS fanatics threaten to BEHEAD Messi and Ronaldo in posters warning of attacks at WORLD CUP pic.twitter.com/dLJN0iNGbP — LOVE lies (@Shyne_Davids) May 17, 2018 × The 2018 FIFA World Cup will be played across 11 cities in Russia from June 14 to July 15, when the final will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Tens of thousands of England fans are expected to base themselves in St. Petersburg for the month-long finals. St Petersburg, Russia's second largest city, was the scene of a horrific ISIS attack when a briefcase bomb detonated on the underground in April last year, killing 14 people. The blast was in retaliation to Russia's airstrikes in Syria that have helped bring the regime to its knees. Thousands of Russians from mainly central Asia have travelled to the Middle East to fight for ISIS.

After Messi, ISIS threatens to 'behead' Ronaldo ahead of Russia World Cup

Mohamed Salah, Egyptian footballer also considered the 'Egyptian King' scored two goals against AS Roma on Wednesday at Anfield.&nbsp;

He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool'&nbsp;

'He felt the love in Liverpool,' Salah said.&nbsp;

Salah was named Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year on Sunday. Leading with 43 goals in 47 games this season is indeed an incredible record.&nbsp;

He is next in line with the great attacking players, Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar.

There has been some news of him becoming the next winner of the most prestigious individual accolade in world football.

"I love that when I was a kid that I was playing the PlayStation as Liverpool," Salah jokes.

It was absolutely a delight for English Football League audiences to watch Salah throughout the season as some of his performances were awestruck.&nbsp;

When asked about him being the third best player in the world, he says, "I'll leave that for the people to decide".

The calm and relaxed player did not celebrate either of his goals against his former club.&nbsp;

Pressure builds upon him as his fellow teammate named him as "Player of the Year".&nbsp;

"It makes me work harder," he says due to fan's expectations. "It makes me give everything, more than before because now there's more pressure. Everyone is looking for you to do something. When I didn't score in one game, they said: 'Wow, he's playing badly'."

"Everyone is expecting something in each game I'm playing. I don't have to score in every game but I want to do my best. I want to give everything for the club for my teammates and myself also", he added.&nbsp;

He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool'

Mohamed Salah, Egyptian footballer also considered the 'Egyptian King' scored two goals against AS Roma on Wednesday at Anfield. He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool' 'He felt the love in Liverpool,' Salah said. Salah was named Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year on Sunday. Leading with 43 goals in 47 games this season is indeed an incredible record. He is next in line with the great attacking players, Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar. There has been some news of him becoming the next winner of the most prestigious individual accolade in world football. "I love that when I was a kid that I was playing the PlayStation as Liverpool," Salah jokes. It was absolutely a delight for English Football League audiences to watch Salah throughout the season as some of his performances were awestruck. When asked about him being the third best player in the world, he says, "I'll leave that for the people to decide". The calm and relaxed player did not celebrate either of his goals against his former club. Pressure builds upon him as his fellow teammate named him as "Player of the Year". "It makes me work harder," he says due to fan's expectations. "It makes me give everything, more than before because now there's more pressure. Everyone is looking for you to do something. When I didn't score in one game, they said: 'Wow, he's playing badly'." "Everyone is expecting something in each game I'm playing. I don't have to score in every game but I want to do my best. I want to give everything for the club for my teammates and myself also", he added.

Mohamed Salah felt the 'love in Liverpool'

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/youtube-headquarters-shooting-woman-attacker-wounds-3-then-kills-self-128180">YouTube headquarters shooting: Woman attacker wounds 3, then kills self</a>

A woman opened fire at YouTube's headquarters near San Francisco on Tuesday. Three people were reported wounded after which the woman shot herself.&nbsp

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/ready-to-retaliate-against-us-tariff-plan-china-128188">Ready to retaliate against US tariff plan: China</a>

In a move which could trigger an all-out trade war, China today said it will retaliate against US move to impose tariffs while condemning President Trump's measure to impose tariffs on worth $50 billion on Chinese goods.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-papers-leak-school-principal-questioned-again-may-get-a-clean-chit-128185">CBSE papers leak: School principal questioned again, may get a clean chit</a>

The Delhi Police's Crime Branch questioned the principal of a school, whose two teachers were arrested for their alleged role in the leak of Class 12 economics paper, again today, after which officials said they had not found anything yet to indicate his involvement in the leak.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/world/no-plans-to-extend-european-privacy-law-globally-mark-zuckerberg-128202">No plans to extend European privacy law globally: Mark Zuckerberg</a>

Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on Tuesday the social network had no immediate plans to apply a strict new European Union law on data privacy in its entirety to the rest of the world, as the company reels from a scandal over its handling of personal information of millions of its users.

<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ronaldo-stuns-buffon-as-real-madrid-outplay-juventus-128178">Champions League: Ronaldo stuns Buffon as Real Madrid outplay Juventus</a>

Defending champions Real Madrid thrashed Juventus by 3-0 in the first leg of UEFA Champions League round of 8 at Juventus Stadium, Italy. Gianluigi Buffon was astounded by the visitors as Juve does not have the tendency to let in many goals but suffered a tragic defeat it the first leg.&nbsp

YouTube headquarters shooting: Woman attacker wounds 3, then kills self A woman opened fire at YouTube's headquarters near San Francisco on Tuesday. Three people were reported wounded after which the woman shot herself. Ready to retaliate against US tariff plan: China In a move which could trigger an all-out trade war, China today said it will retaliate against US move to impose tariffs while condemning President Trump's measure to impose tariffs on worth $50 billion on Chinese goods. CBSE papers leak: School principal questioned again, may get a clean chit The Delhi Police's Crime Branch questioned the principal of a school, whose two teachers were arrested for their alleged role in the leak of Class 12 economics paper, again today, after which officials said they had not found anything yet to indicate his involvement in the leak. No plans to extend European privacy law globally: Mark Zuckerberg Facebook Inc Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on Tuesday the social network had no immediate plans to apply a strict new European Union law on data privacy in its entirety to the rest of the world, as the company reels from a scandal over its handling of personal information of millions of its users. Champions League: Ronaldo stuns Buffon as Real Madrid outplay Juventus Defending champions Real Madrid thrashed Juventus by 3-0 in the first leg of UEFA Champions League round of 8 at Juventus Stadium, Italy. Gianluigi Buffon was astounded by the visitors as Juve does not have the tendency to let in many goals but suffered a tragic defeat it the first leg.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Spanish giants, Real Madrid are set to clash with Serie A leaders Juventus in the first leg of UEFA Champions League round of 8 at 12:15 AM on Wednesday's early morning at Juventus Stadium, Italy.

The way Real Madrid have picked up the pace in LaLiga and reached the third position ahead of Valencia and giving a tough competition to Atletico Madrid is remarkable.

After defeating Paris-Saint Germain in the round of 16 of Champions League, Real won last three matches in LaLiga and currently is high on hopes to proceed further in the tournament.

The star players of Real Madrid are healthy and shining bright, as Madrid is not suffering from any suspension and injury. Only addition of defender Nacho is doubtful ahead of first leg clash.

On the other hand, Juventus is currently leading the Italian league, Series A with 78 points and have reached the quarter-finals after defeating Tottenham by an aggregate of 4-3.

Gonzalo Higuain might create trouble for the Real's defenders as he has already proved himself in the leg of 8, apart from that, Paulo Dybala is another major weapon for Juve.

For Juventus, Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic are suffering suspensions and Federico Bernardeschi is out due to injury.

The probability of winning is 50-50 as both the teams are equally strong though, Juventus will miss few of its major players but the result will be depended on which team will make lesser mistakes and take full advantage.

Playing XI (TBC)

Real Madrid: Navas, Carvajal, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo, Modric, Casemiro, Kroos, Bale, Ronaldo, Benzema.

Juventus: Buffon, De Sciglio, Barzagli, Chiellini, Alex Sandro, Khedira, Matuidi, Marchisio, Dybala, Cuadrado, Higuain.

Spanish giants, Real Madrid are set to clash with Serie A leaders Juventus in the first leg of UEFA Champions League round of 8

Spanish giants, Real Madrid are set to clash with Serie A leaders Juventus in the first leg of UEFA Champions League round of 8 at 12:15 AM on Wednesday's early morning at Juventus Stadium, Italy. The way Real Madrid have picked up the pace in LaLiga and reached the third position ahead of Valencia and giving a tough competition to Atletico Madrid is remarkable. After defeating Paris-Saint Germain in the round of 16 of Champions League, Real won last three matches in LaLiga and currently is high on hopes to proceed further in the tournament. The star players of Real Madrid are healthy and shining bright, as Madrid is not suffering from any suspension and injury. Only addition of defender Nacho is doubtful ahead of first leg clash. On the other hand, Juventus is currently leading the Italian league, Series A with 78 points and have reached the quarter-finals after defeating Tottenham by an aggregate of 4-3. Gonzalo Higuain might create trouble for the Real's defenders as he has already proved himself in the leg of 8, apart from that, Paulo Dybala is another major weapon for Juve. For Juventus, Medhi Benatia and Miralem Pjanic are suffering suspensions and Federico Bernardeschi is out due to injury. The probability of winning is 50-50 as both the teams are equally strong though, Juventus will miss few of its major players but the result will be depended on which team will make lesser mistakes and take full advantage. Playing XI (TBC) Real Madrid: Navas, Carvajal, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo, Modric, Casemiro, Kroos, Bale, Ronaldo, Benzema. Juventus: Buffon, De Sciglio, Barzagli, Chiellini, Alex Sandro, Khedira, Matuidi, Marchisio, Dybala, Cuadrado, Higuain.

Champions League preview: Real Madrid take on Juventus in quarter-finals

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead.

Ronaldo, appearing in his 900th career match, made his mark to devastating effect as time ran out.

First, he pulled his team level with a header from a Ricardo Quaresma cross, before adding the winner in almost identical circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time.

However, the 33-year-old Real Madrid star had to wait for the VAR system to validate his goal after a suspicion of offside. His two-goal salvo took his Portugal tally to 81.&nbsp;

Earlier, Salah, who has shone at Liverpool this season with 28 Premier League goals, broke the deadlock in Zurich after 56 minutes.

After a quickfire exchange of passes, Abdallah El Said found Salah in space for his teammate to beat Beto in the Portuguese goal with a sweetly-timed left-foot strike from the edge of the area.

&quot;In the last minutes we were better, created four chances and showed great determination to turn it around. They showed that they did not want to lose,&quot; said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.&nbsp;

&quot;And with Ronaldo, it&#39;s about a goal and another goal.&quot;

Ronaldo had two first-half chances blocked as he tried to continue his impressive recent form which had seen him score 18 goals in his last nine La Liga games, including registering a 50th hat-trick.&nbsp;

Salah was replaced late in the game by Shikabala and Portugal sensed a chance to grab a share of the spoils.

Quaresma, meanwhile, saw a 72nd minute attempt saved by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal while Bruno Alves saw a close-range header from a corner drift wide of the goal.

Shikabala had a fierce shot saved by Beto diving high to his right before Alves&#39;s frustrations boiled over late in the game with a yellow card.

But with time running out, Ronaldo had the final say as the five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner moved into third place on the all-time list of international goal scorers.

Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals while Iran&#39;s Ali Daei leads the list with 109 goals in 149 internationals.

Egypt, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1990, will play in Group A at the finals this summer with hosts Russia, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Portugal are in Group B and will face Spain, Morocco and Iran.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead

Cristiano Ronaldo hit two goals in stoppage time as European champions Portugal defeated Egypt 2-1 in a friendly international on Friday, winning his personal duel with Mohamed Salah who had put the seven-time African champions ahead. Ronaldo, appearing in his 900th career match, made his mark to devastating effect as time ran out. First, he pulled his team level with a header from a Ricardo Quaresma cross, before adding the winner in almost identical circumstances in the fourth minute of injury time. However, the 33-year-old Real Madrid star had to wait for the VAR system to validate his goal after a suspicion of offside. His two-goal salvo took his Portugal tally to 81. Earlier, Salah, who has shone at Liverpool this season with 28 Premier League goals, broke the deadlock in Zurich after 56 minutes. After a quickfire exchange of passes, Abdallah El Said found Salah in space for his teammate to beat Beto in the Portuguese goal with a sweetly-timed left-foot strike from the edge of the area. "In the last minutes we were better, created four chances and showed great determination to turn it around. They showed that they did not want to lose," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. "And with Ronaldo, it's about a goal and another goal." Ronaldo had two first-half chances blocked as he tried to continue his impressive recent form which had seen him score 18 goals in his last nine La Liga games, including registering a 50th hat-trick. Salah was replaced late in the game by Shikabala and Portugal sensed a chance to grab a share of the spoils. Quaresma, meanwhile, saw a 72nd minute attempt saved by Mohamed El-Shenawy in the Egypt goal while Bruno Alves saw a close-range header from a corner drift wide of the goal. Shikabala had a fierce shot saved by Beto diving high to his right before Alves's frustrations boiled over late in the game with a yellow card. But with time running out, Ronaldo had the final say as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner moved into third place on the all-time list of international goal scorers. Legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskas scored 84 goals while Iran's Ali Daei leads the list with 109 goals in 149 internationals. Egypt, back at a World Cup for the first time since 1990, will play in Group A at the finals this summer with hosts Russia, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Portugal are in Group B and will face Spain, Morocco and Iran.

Ronaldo's last-gasp two-goal show steals Salah limelight

Football is a game of uncertainties, it is not justified to predict the performance of any team and pass the judgement regarding the final result of the game.

The second leg of Champion&#39;s Trophy is starting from today with one of the most crucial face-offs when a Spanish giant will fight with French leaders.

Defending champion Real Madrid will enter the game with a high because they have already taken a 3-1 lead against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg and the aggregate after including today&#39;s score will act as an decider that which team will proceed further.

Paris Saint Germain needs to create chances and the presure of&nbsp;Neymar&#39;s absence must not affect the team&#39;s performance

PSG has the potential and might dribble the comeback and display a shocker in forfeiting the first-leg deficit against Real Madrid. Yes, chances are there!

PSG are up against it, all the more so with Neymar, the world&#39;s most expensive player missing as he recovers in Brazil following a foot operation.

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Paris​ have lost just one of their last 46 European home games ???? 
 
Are they strong enough to see off Madrid? 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LoveitLiveit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LoveitLiveit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/7GUOWzYqwA">pic.twitter.com/7GUOWzYqwA</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/971064594671329280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Brazil&#39;s Paris St Germain forward Neymar has had a successful operation on his injured foot and ankle.

He was operated on Saturday at the Mater Dei Hospital in Belo Horizonte and currently on post-op rehabilitation. Neymar&#39;s absence is a major important implication in today&#39; match.

Out of contract at the end of this season, Emery is relying on big performances from players like Thiago Silva and Angel Di Maria, who were both left out in the first leg.

Kylian Mbappe is looking good at the moment with some outstanding assists in the previous matches.

Real has the confidence and Charged up and Marcelo&#39;s return is a plus point

Cristiano Ronaldo had scored twice as Real Madrid came from behind to stun Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the first leg of their heavyweight Champions League to inspire the team to victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. The team has travelled to Paris to play the match at Parc des Princes. A memorable stadium when Di Stefano lifted the club&#39;s first continental crown.&nbsp;

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???? Ronaldo doing what he does! 
 
Which one of your friends is always trying tricks like <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a>? ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/XGpD9tj3C0">pic.twitter.com/XGpD9tj3C0</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/971020904598827010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Captain Sergio Ramos said, &quot;The Champions League means a lot to us,&quot;

&quot;They have a lot of offensive power, but we have our weapons and we&#39;re going to try to do damage in Paris,&quot; he further added.

Marcelo has returned from injury and he is a big advantage for the team.

This clash takes on huge importance for Zinedine Zidane&rsquo;s Real, who have had an unusually poor domestic campaign and faced many criticisms for the same even his future as Real coach was doubtful.

As far as the final result is concerned, Real Madrid definitely has an intent of winning the game but PSG&#39;s attacking is equally great and might register a comeback and draw the aggregate.

&nbsp;

PSG has the potential and might dribble the comeback and display a shocker in forfeiting the first-leg deficit against Real Madrid. Yes, chances are there!

Football is a game of uncertainties, it is not justified to predict the performance of any team and pass the judgement regarding the final result of the game. The second leg of Champion's Trophy is starting from today with one of the most crucial face-offs when a Spanish giant will fight with French leaders. Defending champion Real Madrid will enter the game with a high because they have already taken a 3-1 lead against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg and the aggregate after including today's score will act as an decider that which team will proceed further. Paris Saint Germain needs to create chances and the presure of Neymar's absence must not affect the team's performance PSG has the potential and might dribble the comeback and display a shocker in forfeiting the first-leg deficit against Real Madrid. Yes, chances are there! PSG are up against it, all the more so with Neymar, the world's most expensive player missing as he recovers in Brazil following a foot operation. Paris have lost just one of their last 46 European home games ???? Are they strong enough to see off Madrid? #LoveitLiveit #UCL pic.twitter.com/7GUOWzYqwA — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 6, 2018 × Brazil's Paris St Germain forward Neymar has had a successful operation on his injured foot and ankle. He was operated on Saturday at the Mater Dei Hospital in Belo Horizonte and currently on post-op rehabilitation. Neymar's absence is a major important implication in today' match. Out of contract at the end of this season, Emery is relying on big performances from players like Thiago Silva and Angel Di Maria, who were both left out in the first leg. Kylian Mbappe is looking good at the moment with some outstanding assists in the previous matches. Real has the confidence and Charged up and Marcelo's return is a plus point Cristiano Ronaldo had scored twice as Real Madrid came from behind to stun Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the first leg of their heavyweight Champions League to inspire the team to victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. The team has travelled to Paris to play the match at Parc des Princes. A memorable stadium when Di Stefano lifted the club's first continental crown. ???? Ronaldo doing what he does! Which one of your friends is always trying tricks like @Cristiano? ????#UCL pic.twitter.com/XGpD9tj3C0 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 6, 2018 × Captain Sergio Ramos said, "The Champions League means a lot to us," "They have a lot of offensive power, but we have our weapons and we're going to try to do damage in Paris," he further added. Marcelo has returned from injury and he is a big advantage for the team. This clash takes on huge importance for Zinedine Zidane’s Real, who have had an unusually poor domestic campaign and faced many criticisms for the same even his future as Real coach was doubtful. As far as the final result is concerned, Real Madrid definitely has an intent of winning the game but PSG's attacking is equally great and might register a comeback and draw the aggregate.

Champions League: Neymar's absence, Marcelo's return favour Real against PSG

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Real Madrid came from behind to stun Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the first leg of their heavyweight Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

Ronaldo scored his 100th Champions League goal for title-holders Real from the penalty spot late in the first half to cancel out Adrien Rabiot&#39;s opener for the French side at the Santiago Bernabeu, set up by Neymar.

The Portuguese star then turned the ball home from close range with seven minutes left before Marcelo secured what could turn out to be a decisive first-leg lead ahead of the return in Paris on March 6 and sent nearly 80,000 home fans into raptures.

&quot;These days are to be remembered, and what better way to do it than with the character we showed,&quot; Real skipper Sergio Ramos told Spanish television.&nbsp;

&quot;We need to keep playing like that, with the desire to defend the Champions League. You can never consider Real Madrid to be dead and buried.&quot;

Rabiot said PSG were plagued by familiar problems

&quot;We always say the same things and we always get caught out in the same way,&quot; Rabiot told beIN Sports.&nbsp;

&quot;The problem is it&#39;s easy to score eight against Dijon, or four goals in league games. It is in these matches that you need to be decisive.&quot; &quot;

The late collapse for PSG brings back echoes of the way they fell apart to lose 6-1 in Barcelona on their way to a humiliating exit at the same stage of the competition last season.

Neymar, in Barcelona&#39;s ranks then, could not make the difference for PSG, who now have a huge job on their hands to turn the tie around.

Having looked set to come away with a precious draw, the defeat piles the pressure on coach Unai Emery, but for Real the outcome is an enormous boost for their boss Zinedine Zidane.

Under pressure himself with Real flagging domestically, he needed this win, and will earn praise for his substitutions, with Marco Asensio coming off the bench to set up each of the two late goals.

That was after Zidane had taken a risk by leaving out Gareth Bale, a key element in the side that has won three of the last four Champions Leagues. The Welshman&#39;s place in the line-up was taken by Isco.

Emery went even further, dropping his captain Thiago Silva to make way for 22-year-old Presnel Kimpembe in the centre of the PSG defence.

- Difficult night for Neymar - 
Real supporters chose an image of a famous fan in Rafael Nadal to adorn a display unfurled at the south end of the ground as the sides came out, hoping their team could draw inspiration from someone who has conquered Paris 10 times as French Open champion.

The hosts started well too, while Neymar struggled, slipping when one pass was aimed towards him, complaining as a Luka Modric challenge sent him to the floor and picking up a yellow card for a foul on Nacho.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, saw Alphonse Areola make a fine save from his net-bound shot after he had been released by Marcelo, and not long after that, in the 33rd minute, PSG scored.

Neymar could claim an assist, although it didn&#39;t look like the Brazilian meant to help Kylian Mbappe&#39;s low ball across the box from the right into the path of Rabiot, who swept home unmarked.

PSG had a precious away goal, but they could not hold their lead until the break as Giovani Lo Celso gave away a penalty for a foul on Toni Kroos.

Areola, having just made a superb save from Karim Benzema, could do nothing to keep out Ronaldo&#39;s spot-kick.

The visitors had chances to go ahead again in the second half, Keylor Navas saving well from Mbappe and Sergio Ramos blocking bravely from Rabiot.

Emery then surprisingly took off Edinson Cavani and replaced him with Thomas Meunier, a right-back. But it was Zidane&#39;s decision to send on Asensio that proved crucial.

In the space of three late minutes, Asensio saw one cross palmed out by Areola and then rebound into the net off Ronaldo&#39;s thigh, before another assist was finished off by Marcelo, potentially finishing the tie in the process.

Neymar, in Barcelona's ranks then, could not make the difference for PSG, who now have a huge job on their hands to turn the tie around.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Real Madrid came from behind to stun Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 in the first leg of their heavyweight Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday. Ronaldo scored his 100th Champions League goal for title-holders Real from the penalty spot late in the first half to cancel out Adrien Rabiot's opener for the French side at the Santiago Bernabeu, set up by Neymar. The Portuguese star then turned the ball home from close range with seven minutes left before Marcelo secured what could turn out to be a decisive first-leg lead ahead of the return in Paris on March 6 and sent nearly 80,000 home fans into raptures. "These days are to be remembered, and what better way to do it than with the character we showed," Real skipper Sergio Ramos told Spanish television. "We need to keep playing like that, with the desire to defend the Champions League. You can never consider Real Madrid to be dead and buried." Rabiot said PSG were plagued by familiar problems "We always say the same things and we always get caught out in the same way," Rabiot told beIN Sports. "The problem is it's easy to score eight against Dijon, or four goals in league games. It is in these matches that you need to be decisive." " The late collapse for PSG brings back echoes of the way they fell apart to lose 6-1 in Barcelona on their way to a humiliating exit at the same stage of the competition last season. Neymar, in Barcelona's ranks then, could not make the difference for PSG, who now have a huge job on their hands to turn the tie around. Having looked set to come away with a precious draw, the defeat piles the pressure on coach Unai Emery, but for Real the outcome is an enormous boost for their boss Zinedine Zidane. Under pressure himself with Real flagging domestically, he needed this win, and will earn praise for his substitutions, with Marco Asensio coming off the bench to set up each of the two late goals. That was after Zidane had taken a risk by leaving out Gareth Bale, a key element in the side that has won three of the last four Champions Leagues. The Welshman's place in the line-up was taken by Isco. Emery went even further, dropping his captain Thiago Silva to make way for 22-year-old Presnel Kimpembe in the centre of the PSG defence. - Difficult night for Neymar - Real supporters chose an image of a famous fan in Rafael Nadal to adorn a display unfurled at the south end of the ground as the sides came out, hoping their team could draw inspiration from someone who has conquered Paris 10 times as French Open champion. The hosts started well too, while Neymar struggled, slipping when one pass was aimed towards him, complaining as a Luka Modric challenge sent him to the floor and picking up a yellow card for a foul on Nacho. Ronaldo, meanwhile, saw Alphonse Areola make a fine save from his net-bound shot after he had been released by Marcelo, and not long after that, in the 33rd minute, PSG scored. Neymar could claim an assist, although it didn't look like the Brazilian meant to help Kylian Mbappe's low ball across the box from the right into the path of Rabiot, who swept home unmarked. PSG had a precious away goal, but they could not hold their lead until the break as Giovani Lo Celso gave away a penalty for a foul on Toni Kroos. Areola, having just made a superb save from Karim Benzema, could do nothing to keep out Ronaldo's spot-kick. The visitors had chances to go ahead again in the second half, Keylor Navas saving well from Mbappe and Sergio Ramos blocking bravely from Rabiot. Emery then surprisingly took off Edinson Cavani and replaced him with Thomas Meunier, a right-back. But it was Zidane's decision to send on Asensio that proved crucial. In the space of three late minutes, Asensio saw one cross palmed out by Areola and then rebound into the net off Ronaldo's thigh, before another assist was finished off by Marcelo, potentially finishing the tie in the process.

Champions League: Real Madrid rule as Ronaldo's double strike drowns PSG

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

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

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

Champions League: These football clashes might make you break up

Cristiano Ronaldo converted two penalties as Real Madrid battled to a 4-1 away win at Valencia in La Liga on Saturday, lifting the recent gloom over the defending Spanish and European champions.

The result leaves Madrid 16 points behind top-placed Barcelona on 54, Atletico Madrid is second on 43, Valencia third on 40 with Real another two back.

Real manager Zinedine Zidane was able to field his favoured forward line of Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema for the first time in 279 days.

&quot;This was a big game in a big stadium and we played with great character,&quot; said Zidane.

&quot;It shows we are still here and that we are ready to fight. There&#39;s a long way to go in the league and we will do our best possible.&quot;

This was no walk in the park for Zidane&#39;s men who indeed had to fight until two late strikes from Marcelo and then Toni Kroos relieved the tension.

On a sunny afternoon at an animated Mestalla stadium with its impeccable turf and rowdy Curva Nord stand, Valencia, a club back on their feet after a decade of turmoil, had only lost once at home this season and gained a 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu in August.

Valencia&#39;s fast, confident, counter-attacking bamboozled Madrid defenders Raphael Varane and Nacho from the off and the home team also looked menacing from corners.

From one Valencia corner, however, Bale headed down to Ronaldo who tore down the field, passing to Marcelo and advancing into the Valencia box where Martin Montoya fouled the Portuguese superstar as he collected a pass.

Ronaldo sent Neto the wrong way on 17 minutes and added a second penalty, for his eighth league goal of the season, after Montoya fouled him again.

Having only lost at the Mestalla to Villarreal this season Marcelino Garcia&#39;s collection of loan signings and youngsters showed magnificent will as they fought to get back into the game.

Rodrigo missed a gaping open goal for the hosts just before half-time.&nbsp;

Just before the hour 22-year-old Spanish striker Santi Mina lost Nacho and stole in at a corner to pull a goal back with a well-directed header. It was his third goal in three games.

Bale, who showed all his old pace, was then booked for telling the referee he needed glasses. Television replays suggested Bale had a good point.

As for Benzema, he was largely reliable in build-up play although he seemed reluctant to shoot, as he trudged off when substituted looking as depressed as the Spanish press claim he is.

With tension building, Ronaldo might have scored three times, failing to convert after great work from Bale and Luka Modric and sending a free-kick sizzling narrowly wide.

Marcelo finished brilliantly to relieve Madrid nerves after a tearing run and cut in from the left culminated in a fierce low drive into the bottom corner.

Zidane, who has been in charge at Madrid since January 2016 after Rafael Benitez was fired after a defeat in Valencia, looked visibly relieved.

Kroos then put the cherry on Madrid&#39;s cake with a precise strike from outside the area with Valencia fading.

&nbsp;

Real manager Zinedine Zidane was able to field his favoured forward line of Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema for the first time in 279 days

Cristiano Ronaldo converted two penalties as Real Madrid battled to a 4-1 away win at Valencia in La Liga on Saturday, lifting the recent gloom over the defending Spanish and European champions. The result leaves Madrid 16 points behind top-placed Barcelona on 54, Atletico Madrid is second on 43, Valencia third on 40 with Real another two back. Real manager Zinedine Zidane was able to field his favoured forward line of Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema for the first time in 279 days. "This was a big game in a big stadium and we played with great character," said Zidane. "It shows we are still here and that we are ready to fight. There's a long way to go in the league and we will do our best possible." This was no walk in the park for Zidane's men who indeed had to fight until two late strikes from Marcelo and then Toni Kroos relieved the tension. On a sunny afternoon at an animated Mestalla stadium with its impeccable turf and rowdy Curva Nord stand, Valencia, a club back on their feet after a decade of turmoil, had only lost once at home this season and gained a 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu in August. Valencia's fast, confident, counter-attacking bamboozled Madrid defenders Raphael Varane and Nacho from the off and the home team also looked menacing from corners. From one Valencia corner, however, Bale headed down to Ronaldo who tore down the field, passing to Marcelo and advancing into the Valencia box where Martin Montoya fouled the Portuguese superstar as he collected a pass. Ronaldo sent Neto the wrong way on 17 minutes and added a second penalty, for his eighth league goal of the season, after Montoya fouled him again. Having only lost at the Mestalla to Villarreal this season Marcelino Garcia's collection of loan signings and youngsters showed magnificent will as they fought to get back into the game. Rodrigo missed a gaping open goal for the hosts just before half-time. Just before the hour 22-year-old Spanish striker Santi Mina lost Nacho and stole in at a corner to pull a goal back with a well-directed header. It was his third goal in three games. Bale, who showed all his old pace, was then booked for telling the referee he needed glasses. Television replays suggested Bale had a good point. As for Benzema, he was largely reliable in build-up play although he seemed reluctant to shoot, as he trudged off when substituted looking as depressed as the Spanish press claim he is. With tension building, Ronaldo might have scored three times, failing to convert after great work from Bale and Luka Modric and sending a free-kick sizzling narrowly wide. Marcelo finished brilliantly to relieve Madrid nerves after a tearing run and cut in from the left culminated in a fierce low drive into the bottom corner. Zidane, who has been in charge at Madrid since January 2016 after Rafael Benitez was fired after a defeat in Valencia, looked visibly relieved. Kroos then put the cherry on Madrid's cake with a precise strike from outside the area with Valencia fading.

Football: Ronaldo leads Real Madrid to Valencia victory

Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a hat-trick as Real Madrid thrashed Real Sociedad 5-2 in La Liga on Saturday to warm up for their Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style.

Atletico Madrid saw off Malaga 1-0 in a tight game to provisionally close the gap on leaders Barcelona to six points.

Real&#39;s big victory over Sociedad took them third above Valencia but they trail Barcelona by 16 points as they turn their attention to the defence of their Champions League title against PSG at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.

Zinedine Zidane rested Casemiro and Gareth Bale with one eye on that, but the Welsh winger&#39;s replacement Lucas Vazquez took full advantage when he headed home Ronaldo&#39;s cross after 49 seconds.

Karim Benzema struck the post with a low effort as he failed to break his scoring drought, the French striker is now without a league goal since November, as Real pressed to add to their advantage.

They did just that after 27 minutes when a brilliant turn by Asensio unlocked Sociedad&#39;s defence and Marcelo crossed for Ronaldo to slam home from close range.

Toni Kroos curled home the third from outside the area and Ronaldo headed home Luka Modric&#39;s corner in a four-minute spell before the interval.

The Portuguese forward completed his treble after Geronimo Rulli beat away substitute Bale&#39;s long-range effort. Jon Bautista and Asier Illaramendi netted consolation goals for Real Sociedad.

&quot;Today from the first minute the team came out to play football, to keep the ball, to press the opponent and steal it high up, and there was a big difference,&quot; Real captain Sergio Ramos said.

&quot;Then in front of goal we were more accurate (than in recent games). I&#39;d be lying to you if I said that we weren&#39;t thinking about PSG.

&quot;Against them we play for our season, (here) we could have continued to press but we couldn&#39;t keep up that rhythm for 90 minutes. We knew how to rest ourselves.

&quot;The objective was to gain confidence and that is what we did today.&quot;

In Malaga, second-placed Atletico went ahead almost instantly when Antoine Griezmann capitalised on Saul Niguez&#39;s deflected strike falling at his feet close to goal.

Jan Oblak saved a Roberto Rosales free kick in the second half as Atletico kept their opponents at bay to earn a narrow victory in typical fashion.

Malaga, rooted to the bottom of the table, have picked up two points in their last eight games.

&quot;We started very strongly, taking advantage of our opponent being off balance and we could score a goal which put us ahead,&quot; Atletico coach Diego Simeone told reporters.

&quot;It was an intense game, we were always putting the work in. We take with us a very important victory.

&quot;The team is rejuvenated, it still has enormous hope, that&#39;s clear to see. Everyone has played a lot of minutes, that&#39;s why we are where we are, because the team worked well.&quot;

Alaves continued their good form under Abelardo, winning 2-1 at fifth-place Villarreal to climb to 16th and seven points above the relegation zone while Eibar moved sixth thanks to a 1-0 win at Leganes as Ivan Ramis scored deep into stoppage-time.

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Atletico Madrid saw off Malaga 1-0 in a tight game to provisionally close the gap on leaders Barcelona to six points

Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a hat-trick as Real Madrid thrashed Real Sociedad 5-2 in La Liga on Saturday to warm up for their Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style. Atletico Madrid saw off Malaga 1-0 in a tight game to provisionally close the gap on leaders Barcelona to six points. Real's big victory over Sociedad took them third above Valencia but they trail Barcelona by 16 points as they turn their attention to the defence of their Champions League title against PSG at the Bernabeu on Wednesday. Zinedine Zidane rested Casemiro and Gareth Bale with one eye on that, but the Welsh winger's replacement Lucas Vazquez took full advantage when he headed home Ronaldo's cross after 49 seconds. Karim Benzema struck the post with a low effort as he failed to break his scoring drought, the French striker is now without a league goal since November, as Real pressed to add to their advantage. They did just that after 27 minutes when a brilliant turn by Asensio unlocked Sociedad's defence and Marcelo crossed for Ronaldo to slam home from close range. Toni Kroos curled home the third from outside the area and Ronaldo headed home Luka Modric's corner in a four-minute spell before the interval. The Portuguese forward completed his treble after Geronimo Rulli beat away substitute Bale's long-range effort. Jon Bautista and Asier Illaramendi netted consolation goals for Real Sociedad. "Today from the first minute the team came out to play football, to keep the ball, to press the opponent and steal it high up, and there was a big difference," Real captain Sergio Ramos said. "Then in front of goal we were more accurate (than in recent games). I'd be lying to you if I said that we weren't thinking about PSG. "Against them we play for our season, (here) we could have continued to press but we couldn't keep up that rhythm for 90 minutes. We knew how to rest ourselves. "The objective was to gain confidence and that is what we did today." In Malaga, second-placed Atletico went ahead almost instantly when Antoine Griezmann capitalised on Saul Niguez's deflected strike falling at his feet close to goal. Jan Oblak saved a Roberto Rosales free kick in the second half as Atletico kept their opponents at bay to earn a narrow victory in typical fashion. Malaga, rooted to the bottom of the table, have picked up two points in their last eight games. "We started very strongly, taking advantage of our opponent being off balance and we could score a goal which put us ahead," Atletico coach Diego Simeone told reporters. "It was an intense game, we were always putting the work in. We take with us a very important victory. "The team is rejuvenated, it still has enormous hope, that's clear to see. Everyone has played a lot of minutes, that's why we are where we are, because the team worked well." Alaves continued their good form under Abelardo, winning 2-1 at fifth-place Villarreal to climb to 16th and seven points above the relegation zone while Eibar moved sixth thanks to a 1-0 win at Leganes as Ivan Ramis scored deep into stoppage-time.

LaLiga: Ronaldo hits hat-trick as Real and Atletico win

&nbsp;Cristiano Ronaldo scored on the rebound after having a penalty saved to give Real Madrid a scarcely-deserved 3-2 win against Malaga on Saturday while Atletico Madrid recorded their biggest win of the season by thrashing Levante 5-0.

Real twice squandered the lead at home to Malaga due to individual errors but restored their advantage for a third time in the 76th minute as Ronaldo knocked in on the rebound when his spot-kick was turned away by visiting goalkeeper Roberto, ending a domestic goal drought that had spanned four games.

Atletico took advantage of some woeful defending from their hosts, whose defender Rober Pier scored an own goal in the fifth minute while Kevin Gameiro cashed in on a dreadful attempted clearance by Chema Rodriguez to tap in the second in the 29th.

Gameiro struck again after the interval while Antoine Griezmann scored twice in the space of three minutes to complete the rout, netting for the first time in seven league games.

Atletico are third, tied with fourth-placed Real on 27 points after 13 games while Barcelona, on 34, visit second-placed Valencia on Sunday with the chance to move seven points clear at the top of the standings.

&quot;This was a great performance from us, we began with an early goal and put them under a lot of pressure and created a lot of chances,&quot; Gameiro told reporters.

&quot;It&#39;s great to score five goals but we have to keep working like this.&quot;

Atletico also set a club record of 13 games unbeaten at the start of a season, bettering their previous tally of 12 from the 1995-96 campaign when they won a league and Cup double.

Karim Benzema nudged in Real&#39;s opening goal in the ninth minute after Ronaldo&#39;s header came back off the bar but Malaga levelled in the 16th through Uruguayan Diego Rolan after an awful misplaced pass in the area by Real&#39;s Toni Kroos.

It was Malaga&#39;s first goal away from home in the league this season.

Germany midfielder Kroos made amends by whipping in a corner which Casemiro leaped to head Real back in front in the 21st minute, while Malaga were denied an equaliser on the stroke of halftime for a foul by defender Paul Baysse on Dani Carvajal as he headed home.

Real were without captain Sergio Ramos, who broke his nose in last week&#39;s goalless draw with Atletico Madrid.

Coach Zinedine Zidane also rested Luka Modric and benched usual number one goalkeeper Keylor Navas despite the Costa Rican returning from injury, instead keeping faith with Kiko Casilla.

Malaga pulled level again 12 minutes into the second half following two errors from Madrid. First Raphael Varane gave the ball away and then Casilla let Gonzalo Castro&#39;s shot from distance slip through his hands.

Real took the lead for the third time when Luis Hernandez tripped Luka Modric in the area, allowing Ronaldo to convert at the second time of asking.

&quot;We started well and scored early which is important but we started giving the ball away and everything changed,&quot; Zidane told reporters.

&quot;The second half was very difficult but we&#39;re happy with the result and need to remember we won, even if things didn&#39;t go exactly as we would have wanted.&quot;

Elsewhere on Saturday Real Betis and Girona played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with three goals in a frantic finale while Eibar won a local derby at Alaves 2-1.

It was Malaga's first goal away from home in the league this season.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored on the rebound after having a penalty saved to give Real Madrid a scarcely-deserved 3-2 win against Malaga on Saturday while Atletico Madrid recorded their biggest win of the season by thrashing Levante 5-0. Real twice squandered the lead at home to Malaga due to individual errors but restored their advantage for a third time in the 76th minute as Ronaldo knocked in on the rebound when his spot-kick was turned away by visiting goalkeeper Roberto, ending a domestic goal drought that had spanned four games. Atletico took advantage of some woeful defending from their hosts, whose defender Rober Pier scored an own goal in the fifth minute while Kevin Gameiro cashed in on a dreadful attempted clearance by Chema Rodriguez to tap in the second in the 29th. Gameiro struck again after the interval while Antoine Griezmann scored twice in the space of three minutes to complete the rout, netting for the first time in seven league games. Atletico are third, tied with fourth-placed Real on 27 points after 13 games while Barcelona, on 34, visit second-placed Valencia on Sunday with the chance to move seven points clear at the top of the standings. "This was a great performance from us, we began with an early goal and put them under a lot of pressure and created a lot of chances," Gameiro told reporters. "It's great to score five goals but we have to keep working like this." Atletico also set a club record of 13 games unbeaten at the start of a season, bettering their previous tally of 12 from the 1995-96 campaign when they won a league and Cup double. Karim Benzema nudged in Real's opening goal in the ninth minute after Ronaldo's header came back off the bar but Malaga levelled in the 16th through Uruguayan Diego Rolan after an awful misplaced pass in the area by Real's Toni Kroos. It was Malaga's first goal away from home in the league this season. Germany midfielder Kroos made amends by whipping in a corner which Casemiro leaped to head Real back in front in the 21st minute, while Malaga were denied an equaliser on the stroke of halftime for a foul by defender Paul Baysse on Dani Carvajal as he headed home. Real were without captain Sergio Ramos, who broke his nose in last week's goalless draw with Atletico Madrid. Coach Zinedine Zidane also rested Luka Modric and benched usual number one goalkeeper Keylor Navas despite the Costa Rican returning from injury, instead keeping faith with Kiko Casilla. Malaga pulled level again 12 minutes into the second half following two errors from Madrid. First Raphael Varane gave the ball away and then Casilla let Gonzalo Castro's shot from distance slip through his hands. Real took the lead for the third time when Luis Hernandez tripped Luka Modric in the area, allowing Ronaldo to convert at the second time of asking. "We started well and scored early which is important but we started giving the ball away and everything changed," Zidane told reporters. "The second half was very difficult but we're happy with the result and need to remember we won, even if things didn't go exactly as we would have wanted." Elsewhere on Saturday Real Betis and Girona played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with three goals in a frantic finale while Eibar won a local derby at Alaves 2-1.

Ronaldo gives Real win over Malaga

Paraguay beat Chile comfortably in the South American World Cup qualifier match to keep their hopes alive to enter the finals in Russia next year.

Paraguay&#39;s 3-0 goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz with&nbsp;Alexis Sanchez failing to make any impact for the home team.

In the other South American qualifier, Brazil beat Ecuador 2-0 to guarantee top spot in South America&#39;s World Cup qualifying race. Paulinho and Coutinho helped the South American giants to clinch the tie as the Brizalian&nbsp;giants looked to conquer the odds in an unpredictable qualifying round. 
&nbsp; 
Argentina, however, stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Uruguay in Montevideo.&nbsp;

Uruguay star Suarez looked to score several times but the match ended goalless&nbsp;at the end of 90 minutes.

The draw means Uruguay remain in third place, one behind Colombia, who were held to a 0-0 draw against Venezuela who have already been eliminated.

Paraguay's goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz

Paraguay beat Chile comfortably in the South American World Cup qualifier match to keep their hopes alive to enter the finals in Russia next year. Paraguay's 3-0 goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz with Alexis Sanchez failing to make any impact for the home team. In the other South American qualifier, Brazil beat Ecuador 2-0 to guarantee top spot in South America's World Cup qualifying race. Paulinho and Coutinho helped the South American giants to clinch the tie as the Brizalian giants looked to conquer the odds in an unpredictable qualifying round. Argentina, however, stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Uruguay in Montevideo. Uruguay star Suarez looked to score several times but the match ended goalless at the end of 90 minutes. The draw means Uruguay remain in third place, one behind Colombia, who were held to a 0-0 draw against Venezuela who have already been eliminated.

World Cup qualifiers: Paraguay beat Chile, Uruguay hold Argentina

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo today hit out at the Spanish football federation(RFEF) accusing the sports body&#39;s decision to impose a five-match ban as &quot;exaggerated&quot; and &nbsp;&quot;ridiculous&quot;.

&quot;It&#39;s impossible not to react to this situation, 5 games! It seems to me exaggerated and ridiculous, this is called persecution!&quot; Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post.

Ronaldo was handed the ban after he shoved referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea as he was being sent off during Madrid&#39;s match against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday. Ronaldo&#39;s on-field behaviour meant he received an automatic one-match ban for his dismissal and an extra four-match ban was added later after he was found guilty of misbehaviour with the referee.

The World Player of the Year was fined $4,500 and given ten days to appeal. Real appealed but the RFEF rejected it although the club can still take the case to Spanish&#39;s government&#39;s sports court in order to reduce the ban.

During the match against Barcelona on Sunday, the 32-year-old star threw his shirt after scoring and held it up to the crowd and was promptly booked and just minutes later he was sent off after trying to win a penalty and appeared to angrily push Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea which later attracted a four-match ban.

Coach Zidane backed Ronaldo, saying: &quot;We played a great game but I am annoyed by Cristiano&#39;s sending off, perhaps it wasn&#39;t a penalty but the red card is a little harsh. We can&#39;t change it, but we&#39;ll try and make sure he plays on Wednesday.&quot;

Ronaldo was handed the ban after he shoved referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea as he was being sent off during Madrid's match against Barcelona

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo today hit out at the Spanish football federation(RFEF) accusing the sports body's decision to impose a five-match ban as "exaggerated" and "ridiculous". "It's impossible not to react to this situation, 5 games! It seems to me exaggerated and ridiculous, this is called persecution!" Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post. Ronaldo was handed the ban after he shoved referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea as he was being sent off during Madrid's match against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday. Ronaldo's on-field behaviour meant he received an automatic one-match ban for his dismissal and an extra four-match ban was added later after he was found guilty of misbehaviour with the referee. The World Player of the Year was fined $4,500 and given ten days to appeal. Real appealed but the RFEF rejected it although the club can still take the case to Spanish's government's sports court in order to reduce the ban. During the match against Barcelona on Sunday, the 32-year-old star threw his shirt after scoring and held it up to the crowd and was promptly booked and just minutes later he was sent off after trying to win a penalty and appeared to angrily push Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea which later attracted a four-match ban. Coach Zidane backed Ronaldo, saying: "We played a great game but I am annoyed by Cristiano's sending off, perhaps it wasn't a penalty but the red card is a little harsh. We can't change it, but we'll try and make sure he plays on Wednesday."

Five match ban seems exaggerated and ridiculous: Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid will appeal Cristiano Ronaldo&#39;s second yellow card for diving in the Spanish Super Cup first leg at Barcelona, coach Zinedine Zidane said after the Portuguese showed the best and worst side of his game in Real&#39;s 3-1 win.

Ronaldo spent 24 minutes on the pitch after not starting the game at the Nou Camp but still had the biggest impact.

The 32-year-old, who was given a hostile reception by Barca fans as he warmed up before replacing Karim Benzema, hit back moments after Lionel Messi&#39;s equaliser with a brilliant strike into the top corner to put Real 2-1 up in the 80th minute.

The Portuguese threw off his shirt after scoring and provocatively held it up to the crowd and was booked.

Two minutes later he was sent off for trying to win a penalty in a challenge from Samuel Umtiti, angrily pushing referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea before leaving the pitch.

&quot;We played a great game but I am annoyed by Cristiano&#39;s sending off,&quot; Zidane told a news conference.

&quot;Perhaps it wasn&#39;t a penalty but the red card is a little harsh. We can&#39;t change it, but we&#39;ll try and make sure he plays on Wednesday.&quot;

Madrid captain Sergio Ramos also leapt to Ronaldo&#39;s defence.

&quot;I think he was caught off balance and he didn&#39;t dive,&quot; said the defender. &quot;We should try and appeal it. It should be analysed a little more.&quot;

Marco Asensio scored Real&#39;s third with a stunning long range goal in the 90th minute, giving Madrid a healthy advantage as they seek to win a fourth trophy in four months and earn their first Super Cup since 2012.

&quot;We fought with 10 players, we believed until the end but it&#39;s only one game, we have the second leg up next,&quot; added Zidane.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said his side had not deserved to lose 3-1.

&quot;I don&#39;t have the sensation we were as far away from them as the scoreline suggests,&quot; he said. &quot;They scored three times, but we played well and had our chances.

&quot;They caught us on the counter-attack when it was 1-1 and scored a great goal, and then another one. But it&#39;s not just about getting into the danger zone, it&#39;s about putting your chances away.&quot;

The Portuguese threw off his shirt after scoring and provocatively held it up to the crowd and was booked

Real Madrid will appeal Cristiano Ronaldo's second yellow card for diving in the Spanish Super Cup first leg at Barcelona, coach Zinedine Zidane said after the Portuguese showed the best and worst side of his game in Real's 3-1 win. Ronaldo spent 24 minutes on the pitch after not starting the game at the Nou Camp but still had the biggest impact. The 32-year-old, who was given a hostile reception by Barca fans as he warmed up before replacing Karim Benzema, hit back moments after Lionel Messi's equaliser with a brilliant strike into the top corner to put Real 2-1 up in the 80th minute. The Portuguese threw off his shirt after scoring and provocatively held it up to the crowd and was booked. Two minutes later he was sent off for trying to win a penalty in a challenge from Samuel Umtiti, angrily pushing referee Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea before leaving the pitch. "We played a great game but I am annoyed by Cristiano's sending off," Zidane told a news conference. "Perhaps it wasn't a penalty but the red card is a little harsh. We can't change it, but we'll try and make sure he plays on Wednesday." Madrid captain Sergio Ramos also leapt to Ronaldo's defence. "I think he was caught off balance and he didn't dive," said the defender. "We should try and appeal it. It should be analysed a little more." Marco Asensio scored Real's third with a stunning long range goal in the 90th minute, giving Madrid a healthy advantage as they seek to win a fourth trophy in four months and earn their first Super Cup since 2012. "We fought with 10 players, we believed until the end but it's only one game, we have the second leg up next," added Zidane. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said his side had not deserved to lose 3-1. "I don't have the sensation we were as far away from them as the scoreline suggests," he said. "They scored three times, but we played well and had our chances. "They caught us on the counter-attack when it was 1-1 and scored a great goal, and then another one. But it's not just about getting into the danger zone, it's about putting your chances away."

Real Madrid to appeal Ronaldo card: Zidane

Real Madrid forward Cristiano&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;wants to leave the club and Spain after being accused of committing tax fraud in the country, a report in Portuguese sports daily A Bola said on Friday.

The newspaper said its story was based on a reliable source and that the 32-year-old four-times world player of the year had already made up his mind to ask the club for a transfer.

It said that&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;was &quot;deeply disenchanted&quot; with the allegations against him.

Record, another sports daily, carried a similar story.

Ronaldo&#39;s agents could not immediately be reached for comment.

Spanish prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against the player accusing him of defrauding tax authorities of 14.7 million euros ($16.5 million) by hiding his image rights income between 2011 and 2014.&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;has denied any wrongdoing.

Real Madrid said on Thursday they were confident the Portuguese forward had acted legally. They could not immediately be reached on Friday to comment on the report.

Ronaldo&nbsp;led Real Madrid to their 12th European Cup earlier this month after scoring two goals in a 4-1 victory over Juventus in the Champions League final, becoming the tournament&#39;s top scorer.

Ronaldo, Portugal&#39;s all-time leading scorer, is the latest in a long line of soccer players in Spain -- among them Barcelona&#39;s Lionel Messi and Neymar -- to be caught up in cases over tax or transfers.

Ronaldo&nbsp;has completed eight seasons at Real Madrid since joining them from Manchester United in 2009 for a then world record fee of 96 million euros

During that time, they have won the Champions League three times and La Liga twice. In November, he agreed to extend his contract until 2021.

He is currently at the Confederations Cup in Russia with the Portuguese national team where his team mate Andre Silva said that&nbsp;Ronaldo&nbsp;was motivated for the tournament.

&quot;All I can say is that he is motivated, focused on the national team and encouraging us on to win the tournament,&quot; he told a news conference in Kazan, where Portugal face Mexico on Sunday.

A source close to Cristiano Ronaldo told a Portuguese newspaper that the footballer was 'deeply disenchanted' with the allegations, and had handed a transfer request

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave the club and Spain after being accused of committing tax fraud in the country, a report in Portuguese sports daily A Bola said on Friday. The newspaper said its story was based on a reliable source and that the 32-year-old four-times world player of the year had already made up his mind to ask the club for a transfer. It said that Ronaldo was "deeply disenchanted" with the allegations against him. Record, another sports daily, carried a similar story. Ronaldo's agents could not immediately be reached for comment. Spanish prosecutors have filed a lawsuit against the player accusing him of defrauding tax authorities of 14.7 million euros ($16.5 million) by hiding his image rights income between 2011 and 2014. Ronaldo has denied any wrongdoing. Real Madrid said on Thursday they were confident the Portuguese forward had acted legally. They could not immediately be reached on Friday to comment on the report. Ronaldo led Real Madrid to their 12th European Cup earlier this month after scoring two goals in a 4-1 victory over Juventus in the Champions League final, becoming the tournament's top scorer. Ronaldo, Portugal's all-time leading scorer, is the latest in a long line of soccer players in Spain -- among them Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Neymar -- to be caught up in cases over tax or transfers. Ronaldo has completed eight seasons at Real Madrid since joining them from Manchester United in 2009 for a then world record fee of 96 million euros During that time, they have won the Champions League three times and La Liga twice. In November, he agreed to extend his contract until 2021. He is currently at the Confederations Cup in Russia with the Portuguese national team where his team mate Andre Silva said that Ronaldo was motivated for the tournament. "All I can say is that he is motivated, focused on the national team and encouraging us on to win the tournament," he told a news conference in Kazan, where Portugal face Mexico on Sunday.

Upset Ronaldo wants to leave Real Madrid amid tax fraud claims

Cristiano Ronaldo proved Atletico Madrid&#39;s Champions League destroyer once more with a hat-trick as Real Madrid took a commanding 3-0 semi-final, first leg lead on Tuesday.

Ronaldo extended his lead as the all-time top scorer in Madrid derby matches by taking his tally to 21 and put Real firmly on course to defend their title in the final in Cardiff on June 3.

The Portuguese rewarded a bright Real start by heading home Casemiro&#39;s deflected cross after just 10 minutes.

Ronaldo then smashed home from just inside the area and turned home Lucas Vazquez&#39;s cross in the final 20 minutes as Real continued their domination of Atletico having eliminated them in the Champions League for the past three seasons.

&quot;The team was tremendous. I scored the goals but the team was phenomenal from start to finish,&quot; said Ronaldo.

The sides meet again for the second leg on May 10.

&quot;We have a good advantage but the tie isn&#39;t over yet,&quot; added Ronaldo.

&quot;Atletico are a good side and it is not a coincidence they are in the semi-finals again. We have to be concentrated next Wednesday.&quot;

Atletico boss Diego Simeone, meanwhile, told his side to forget their latest derby demolition and hope for a miracle at the last European match at their Vicente Calderon stadium next week.

&quot;We need to forget about this game,&quot; said the Argentine.

&quot;It seems impossible, but it is football and football has these unexpected things that make it marvellous.

&quot;Until the last drip of hope is gone, we will give it everything we have.&quot;

Real needed a stoppage time equaliser en route to beating Atletico in the 2014 final, scored a late winner in the quarter-finals a year later and edged last season&#39;s final between the two on a penalty shootout.

However, there was far more a gulf between the sides this time round.

Real piled on the pain in the opening stages for the 4,000 visiting away fans and could have killed the tie in the opening half hour.

Atletico were handed a lucky escape on seven minutes when Jan Oblak parried Dani Carvajal&#39;s effort at the end of a careering run and the Slovenian recovered to also turn behind Karim Benzema&#39;s follow-up effort.

&nbsp;No let off 
 
There was no let off three minutes later, though, as Atletico failed to clear a corner and Casemiro&#39;s bouncing cross looped up for Ronaldo to power home a header.

Oblak kept Atletico alive in the moments that followed with a brilliant save from Raphael Varane&#39;s header and more comfortable stop from Isco.

However, at the other end, Keylor Navas rescued Real from conceding a vital away goal when he got a touch on the ball as Kevin Gameiro tried to round him when clean through on goal.

The majority of the efforts continued to rain down on Oblak&#39;s goal as Luka Modric drilled a shot from the edge of the box inches wide.

And Benzema then acrobatically turned a Ronaldo cross just over the bar.

The only negative news of the night for Real was an injury to right-back Dani Carvajal just before half-time as he pulled up with a muscle problem that looks set to keep him out of the second leg.

Clear-cut chances were far harder to come by after half-time as Atletico toiled to create, whilst Real sat on their lead waiting for the chance to counter-attack.

However, once again in ties between these two, Real got the slice of luck to go with their extra quality.

The ball rebounded up perfectly off the heels of Filipe Luis for Ronaldo to blast high past Oblak.

And Ronaldo completed his second hat-trick against Atletico this season four minutes from time when Lucas Vazquez&#39;s cutback picked out the four-time World Player of the Year to slot home from close range. 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Ronaldo put Real firmly on course to defend their title in the final in Cardiff on June 3

Cristiano Ronaldo proved Atletico Madrid's Champions League destroyer once more with a hat-trick as Real Madrid took a commanding 3-0 semi-final, first leg lead on Tuesday. Ronaldo extended his lead as the all-time top scorer in Madrid derby matches by taking his tally to 21 and put Real firmly on course to defend their title in the final in Cardiff on June 3. The Portuguese rewarded a bright Real start by heading home Casemiro's deflected cross after just 10 minutes. Ronaldo then smashed home from just inside the area and turned home Lucas Vazquez's cross in the final 20 minutes as Real continued their domination of Atletico having eliminated them in the Champions League for the past three seasons. "The team was tremendous. I scored the goals but the team was phenomenal from start to finish," said Ronaldo. The sides meet again for the second leg on May 10. "We have a good advantage but the tie isn't over yet," added Ronaldo. "Atletico are a good side and it is not a coincidence they are in the semi-finals again. We have to be concentrated next Wednesday." Atletico boss Diego Simeone, meanwhile, told his side to forget their latest derby demolition and hope for a miracle at the last European match at their Vicente Calderon stadium next week. "We need to forget about this game," said the Argentine. "It seems impossible, but it is football and football has these unexpected things that make it marvellous. "Until the last drip of hope is gone, we will give it everything we have." Real needed a stoppage time equaliser en route to beating Atletico in the 2014 final, scored a late winner in the quarter-finals a year later and edged last season's final between the two on a penalty shootout. However, there was far more a gulf between the sides this time round. Real piled on the pain in the opening stages for the 4,000 visiting away fans and could have killed the tie in the opening half hour. Atletico were handed a lucky escape on seven minutes when Jan Oblak parried Dani Carvajal's effort at the end of a careering run and the Slovenian recovered to also turn behind Karim Benzema's follow-up effort. No let off There was no let off three minutes later, though, as Atletico failed to clear a corner and Casemiro's bouncing cross looped up for Ronaldo to power home a header. Oblak kept Atletico alive in the moments that followed with a brilliant save from Raphael Varane's header and more comfortable stop from Isco. However, at the other end, Keylor Navas rescued Real from conceding a vital away goal when he got a touch on the ball as Kevin Gameiro tried to round him when clean through on goal. The majority of the efforts continued to rain down on Oblak's goal as Luka Modric drilled a shot from the edge of the box inches wide. And Benzema then acrobatically turned a Ronaldo cross just over the bar. The only negative news of the night for Real was an injury to right-back Dani Carvajal just before half-time as he pulled up with a muscle problem that looks set to keep him out of the second leg. Clear-cut chances were far harder to come by after half-time as Atletico toiled to create, whilst Real sat on their lead waiting for the chance to counter-attack. However, once again in ties between these two, Real got the slice of luck to go with their extra quality. The ball rebounded up perfectly off the heels of Filipe Luis for Ronaldo to blast high past Oblak. And Ronaldo completed his second hat-trick against Atletico this season four minutes from time when Lucas Vazquez's cutback picked out the four-time World Player of the Year to slot home from close range. (AFP)

Real Madrid 3-0 Atletico Madrid with Ronaldo's hat-trick

Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of the Real Madrid squad for Wednesday&#39;s trip to Deportivo la Coruna as coach Zinedine Zidane maintained his rotation policy despite defeat by Barcelona on Sunday.

It is the third consecutive La Liga away game Ronaldo has not been included in the Real squad.

However, the European champions have recorded victories at Leganes and Sporting Gijon without the World Player of the Year.

Gareth Bale and captain Sergio Ramos are unavailable through injury and suspension respectively.

Meanwhile, midfielder Toni Kroos is also rested.

Raphael Varane returns from nearly a month out with a hamstring problem to ease the blow of Ramos`s absence at the heart of the defence.

Madrid and Barca are locked on 75 points each at the top of La Liga.

However, Real still have matters in their own hands as they have a game in hand on their title rivals. 
 
(Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Coach Zinedine Zidane maintained his rotation policy despite defeat by Barcelona on Sunday

Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of the Real Madrid squad for Wednesday's trip to Deportivo la Coruna as coach Zinedine Zidane maintained his rotation policy despite defeat by Barcelona on Sunday. It is the third consecutive La Liga away game Ronaldo has not been included in the Real squad. However, the European champions have recorded victories at Leganes and Sporting Gijon without the World Player of the Year. Gareth Bale and captain Sergio Ramos are unavailable through injury and suspension respectively. Meanwhile, midfielder Toni Kroos is also rested. Raphael Varane returns from nearly a month out with a hamstring problem to ease the blow of Ramos`s absence at the heart of the defence. Madrid and Barca are locked on 75 points each at the top of La Liga. However, Real still have matters in their own hands as they have a game in hand on their title rivals. (Reuters)

Zidane's rotation policy: Real Madrid rests Ronaldo

Real Madrid moved five points clear of Barcelona at the top of La Liga despite a lacklustre performance as goals from Karim Benzema, Isco and Nacho secured a 3-0 win over Alaves on Sunday.

Benzema volleyed home Dani Carvajal&#39;s cutback for the opening goal just after the half hour mark.

However, the European champions were grateful to Alaves&#39; wastefulness in front of goal after the break as Deyverson and Edgar Mendez passed up huge chances to equalise.

Isco eventually made the game safe five minutes from time before Nacho rounded off the scoring moments later.

Barcelona can close back to within two points with victory at Granada later on Sunday.

&quot;Playing every three days you can&#39;t always play perfectly for 90 minutes,&quot; said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane.

&quot;We were having problems, we weren&#39;t playing well and then all of a sudden Cristiano (Ronaldo) gets the ball, passes it to Isco and he controls and scores.

&quot;That is what this team has. We know that at any moment we can hurt the opponent.&quot;

Zidane had handed a rest from the start to a host of his stars involved in international duty over the past week as captain Sergio Ramos, Marcelo and James Rodriguez were left out.

Yet, Zidane&#39;s plans were undone inside 10 minutes when Raphael Varane suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury and had to be replaced by Carvajal.

&quot;Rafa has damaged the same area as before, it isn&#39;t as bad as three weeks ago and we hope it is nothing major.&quot;

Zidane did name his first-choice front three as Ronaldo and Gareth Bale flanked Benzema.

All three fired off target from the edge of the box as Madrid started brightly, but they had to wait 31 minutes for the opener.

Carvajal&#39;s burst of pace took him to the by-line and he picked out the unmarked Benzema to smash into the far corner.

Madrid&#39;s rhythm was disrupted by the half-time whistle, though, as Alaves were the better side for large spells of the second-half.

Deyverson headed over from point-blank range from Theo Hernandez&#39;s cross before Mendez passed up the visitors&#39; best chance when he slotted wide when unmarked at the back post.

Manu Garcia&#39;s flicked header also then dipped just beyond Kiko Casilla&#39;s far post as the Santiago Bernabeu crowd became restless.

However, Isco settled their nerves when he rocketed Ronaldo&#39;s through ball into the roof of the net from a narrow angle.

And Nacho gave the scoreline an unjustified gloss when he tapped into an empty net after Fernando Pacheco made a brilliant save to tip Bale&#39;s free-kick onto the bar.

Earlier, an unsettling week for Sevilla ended with another disappointing result as they were held 0-0 at home by Sporting Gijon, leaving them fourth in La Liga on Sunday.

In the wake of Sporting director Monchi&#39;s decision to leave the club after 17 years, Sevilla boss Jorge Sampaoli cast doubt on his future before kick-off with Argentina reportedly interested in hiring him to salvage their floundering World Cup qualifying campaign.

However, Sampaoli&#39;s stock has fallen in recent weeks as Sevilla&#39;s winless run stretched to five games in all competitions despite dominating for 95 minutes at the Sanchez Pizjuan.

A draw is far more valuable for Sporting at the other end of the table as they move to within five points of safety in 18th.

(AFP)

Karim Benzema, Isco and Nacho netted for Los Blancos

Real Madrid moved five points clear of Barcelona at the top of La Liga despite a lacklustre performance as goals from Karim Benzema, Isco and Nacho secured a 3-0 win over Alaves on Sunday. Benzema volleyed home Dani Carvajal's cutback for the opening goal just after the half hour mark. However, the European champions were grateful to Alaves' wastefulness in front of goal after the break as Deyverson and Edgar Mendez passed up huge chances to equalise. Isco eventually made the game safe five minutes from time before Nacho rounded off the scoring moments later. Barcelona can close back to within two points with victory at Granada later on Sunday. "Playing every three days you can't always play perfectly for 90 minutes," said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane. "We were having problems, we weren't playing well and then all of a sudden Cristiano (Ronaldo) gets the ball, passes it to Isco and he controls and scores. "That is what this team has. We know that at any moment we can hurt the opponent." Zidane had handed a rest from the start to a host of his stars involved in international duty over the past week as captain Sergio Ramos, Marcelo and James Rodriguez were left out. Yet, Zidane's plans were undone inside 10 minutes when Raphael Varane suffered a recurrence of a hamstring injury and had to be replaced by Carvajal. "Rafa has damaged the same area as before, it isn't as bad as three weeks ago and we hope it is nothing major." Zidane did name his first-choice front three as Ronaldo and Gareth Bale flanked Benzema. All three fired off target from the edge of the box as Madrid started brightly, but they had to wait 31 minutes for the opener. Carvajal's burst of pace took him to the by-line and he picked out the unmarked Benzema to smash into the far corner. Madrid's rhythm was disrupted by the half-time whistle, though, as Alaves were the better side for large spells of the second-half. Deyverson headed over from point-blank range from Theo Hernandez's cross before Mendez passed up the visitors' best chance when he slotted wide when unmarked at the back post. Manu Garcia's flicked header also then dipped just beyond Kiko Casilla's far post as the Santiago Bernabeu crowd became restless. However, Isco settled their nerves when he rocketed Ronaldo's through ball into the roof of the net from a narrow angle. And Nacho gave the scoreline an unjustified gloss when he tapped into an empty net after Fernando Pacheco made a brilliant save to tip Bale's free-kick onto the bar. Earlier, an unsettling week for Sevilla ended with another disappointing result as they were held 0-0 at home by Sporting Gijon, leaving them fourth in La Liga on Sunday. In the wake of Sporting director Monchi's decision to leave the club after 17 years, Sevilla boss Jorge Sampaoli cast doubt on his future before kick-off with Argentina reportedly interested in hiring him to salvage their floundering World Cup qualifying campaign. However, Sampaoli's stock has fallen in recent weeks as Sevilla's winless run stretched to five games in all competitions despite dominating for 95 minutes at the Sanchez Pizjuan. A draw is far more valuable for Sporting at the other end of the table as they move to within five points of safety in 18th. (AFP)

Real Madrid win against Alaves to stretch La Liga lead

Real Madrid&#39;s Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo was the best-paid footballer in 2016-17, with 87.5 million euros ($95.3m) in earnings, ahead of his Argentinian rival at Barcelona, Lionel Messi (76.5m), according to figures to appear in Tuesday&#39;s edition of France Football.

Messi&#39;s Brazilian teammate Neymar is third with 55.5 million euros ahead of Real Madrid&#39;s Welsh forward Gareth Bale (41m) and &nbsp;Argentina&#39;s Ezequiel Lavezzi (28.5m), who plays for Hebei Fortune in the Chinese Super League.

Manchester United&#39;s Jose Mourinho is the best-paid coach, with income of 28 million euros, the magazine said.

France Football said it based its figures on salary, bonuses and advertising income for the 2016-2017 season.

(AFP)

Barcelona duo Messi and Neymar were the next highest-paid footballers in 2016-17, according to France Football

Real Madrid's Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo was the best-paid footballer in 2016-17, with 87.5 million euros ($95.3m) in earnings, ahead of his Argentinian rival at Barcelona, Lionel Messi (76.5m), according to figures to appear in Tuesday's edition of France Football. Messi's Brazilian teammate Neymar is third with 55.5 million euros ahead of Real Madrid's Welsh forward Gareth Bale (41m) and Argentina's Ezequiel Lavezzi (28.5m), who plays for Hebei Fortune in the Chinese Super League. Manchester United's Jose Mourinho is the best-paid coach, with income of 28 million euros, the magazine said. France Football said it based its figures on salary, bonuses and advertising income for the 2016-2017 season. (AFP)

Ronaldo best-paid footballer, Mourinho highest-paid manager

Celta Vigo held their fancied opponents Real Madrid to dump them out of the&nbsp;Copa del Rey.

A 2-2 stalemate meant Celta beat Los Blancos 4-3 on aggregate to enter the semi-finals of the cup tournament.

A Danila own goal right before half-time was a huge blow for the&nbsp;injury-plagued Real Madrid.

A fine free-kick from Ronaldo after the break gave Madrid hope.&nbsp;However, Daniel Wass restored Celta&#39;s lead five minutes from time before Lucas Vazquez&#39;s stoppage time header at least prevented Madrid from suffering a third defeat in four games.

(WION with inputs from AFP)

Celta Vigo held Real at home to progress to the semi-finals of the cup tournament

Celta Vigo held their fancied opponents Real Madrid to dump them out of the Copa del Rey. A 2-2 stalemate meant Celta beat Los Blancos 4-3 on aggregate to enter the semi-finals of the cup tournament. A Danila own goal right before half-time was a huge blow for the injury-plagued Real Madrid. A fine free-kick from Ronaldo after the break gave Madrid hope. However, Daniel Wass restored Celta's lead five minutes from time before Lucas Vazquez's stoppage time header at least prevented Madrid from suffering a third defeat in four games. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Real Madrid dumped out of Copa del Rey by Celta Vigo

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