<p>A circus bear used to open a&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;match in Russia's town of Pyatigorsk on Saturday (April 14) caused outrage from animal welfare groups.</p>

<p>The bear, named 'Tima', performed gestures and handed the match ball to the referee before the third-tier match between FC Mashuk-KMV and FC Angusht.</p>

<p>FC Angusht, who had initially shared the video, said that the bear was to be used in the World Cup opening ceremony, a claim which FIFA denied according to BBC.</p>

<p>FIFA World Cup will begin in Russia on June 14.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Monday, saying that it’s clear from the footage that “cruel training methods have been used” on the bear.<br />
<br />
Rustam Dudov, manager of the Mashuk club which arranged for the bear to perform, told the Sport Express newspaper Monday that the bear was</p>
— Стасов Антон (@Antonstasov1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Antonstasov1/status/986230441299578881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How many blows have been given to this bear to make him perform in front of thousands of cheering idiots ?</p>
— Laura Libertini (@LauraLibertini1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LauraLibertini1/status/986201307303342080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The bear, named 'Tima', performed gestures and handed the match ball to the referee before the third-tier match between FC Mashuk-KMV and FC Angusht

A circus bear used to open a soccer match in Russia's town of Pyatigorsk on Saturday (April 14) caused outrage from animal welfare groups. The bear, named 'Tima', performed gestures and handed the match ball to the referee before the third-tier match between FC Mashuk-KMV and FC Angusht. FC Angusht, who had initially shared the video, said that the bear was to be used in the World Cup opening ceremony, a claim which FIFA denied according to BBC. FIFA World Cup will begin in Russia on June 14. Monday, saying that it’s clear from the footage that “cruel training methods have been used” on the bear. Rustam Dudov, manager of the Mashuk club which arranged for the bear to perform, told the Sport Express newspaper Monday that the bear was — Стасов Антон (@Antonstasov1) April 17, 2018 × How many blows have been given to this bear to make him perform in front of thousands of cheering idiots ? — Laura Libertini (@LauraLibertini1) April 17, 2018 ×

Watch: Bear 'performs' at soccer match, causes worldwide outrage

<p>Eyebrows were raised last year when Manchester City spent almost 140 million pounds ($197 million) on two full backs and a goalkeeper, but manager Pep Guardiola showed he knew exactly what was needed to capture the Premier League title in style.</p>

<p>Having experienced his first-ever trophyless season as a head coach last campaign, Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson, as well as Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy to enhance City in areas they`d previously been lacking in.</p>

<p>Last season, the Spanish coach had replaced England international goalkeeper Joe Hart with Claudio Bravo. However, 19 goalkeepers who played more than 20 Premier League games finished the 2016-17 campaign with a better save percentage than the Chilean, as City conceded 39 goals.</p>

<p>Ederson did not come cheap at a reported 35 million pounds, but the results have been mightily impressive with the Brazilian being beaten only 25 times so far.</p>

<p>Firstly, he fulfils that ball-playing requirement that Guardiola demands from his keepers. Ederson`s pass success rate of more than 85 per cent is higher than players including Paul Pogba, Kevin De Bruyne, and Cesc Fabregas.&nbsp;<br />
It means the 24-year-old is the league`s most accurate goalkeeper by a comfortable distance.</p>

<p>Ederson has also made some crucial saves, such as the last-gasp penalty stop at Crystal Palace in December, as well making a significant improvement in the save percentage department -- contributions that can make all the difference in a title race.</p>

<p>"He is young and has to improve a lot of things, but he is, for me, already one of the best in the world," Guardiola said recently.</p>

<p><strong>NEW ENERGY</strong></p>

<p>Last year, ageing full backs Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy and Aleksandar Kolarov were tasked with providing extra width down the wing.</p>

<p>All three left in the close season and Guardiola invested in younger replacements on each side, which immediately reaped rewards.</p>

<p>Mendy`s unfortunate injury has deprived City of a potent threat for much of this season, after the Frenchman had settled in very quickly.</p>

<p>Kyle Walker, though, has continued to provide that additional option in attack. The England international has provided six Premier League assists, compared to two from Kolarov, Clichy and Zabaleta combined last campaign.</p>

<p>Further forward, Bernardo Silva has shown glimpses of his creative ability, but is yet to make a regular starting berth his own. Danilo is another who has provided quality in reserve.</p>

<p>Aymeric Laporte became City`s record signing in January, but it would be unfair to judge the young defender after such little time in England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The likes of De Bruyne, David Silva and Sergio Aguero -- all players inherited by Guardiola -- have spearheaded City`s title triumph. But it was the signings in areas City were falling short in, which have helped propel them from nearly men into champions.</p>


Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson

Eyebrows were raised last year when Manchester City spent almost 140 million pounds ($197 million) on two full backs and a goalkeeper, but manager Pep Guardiola showed he knew exactly what was needed to capture the Premier League title in style. Having experienced his first-ever trophyless season as a head coach last campaign, Guardiola wasted no time in bringing in goalkeeper Ederson, as well as Kyle Walker and Benjamin Mendy to enhance City in areas they`d previously been lacking in. Last season, the Spanish coach had replaced England international goalkeeper Joe Hart with Claudio Bravo. However, 19 goalkeepers who played more than 20 Premier League games finished the 2016-17 campaign with a better save percentage than the Chilean, as City conceded 39 goals. Ederson did not come cheap at a reported 35 million pounds, but the results have been mightily impressive with the Brazilian being beaten only 25 times so far. Firstly, he fulfils that ball-playing requirement that Guardiola demands from his keepers. Ederson`s pass success rate of more than 85 per cent is higher than players including Paul Pogba, Kevin De Bruyne, and Cesc Fabregas. It means the 24-year-old is the league`s most accurate goalkeeper by a comfortable distance. Ederson has also made some crucial saves, such as the last-gasp penalty stop at Crystal Palace in December, as well making a significant improvement in the save percentage department -- contributions that can make all the difference in a title race. "He is young and has to improve a lot of things, but he is, for me, already one of the best in the world," Guardiola said recently. NEW ENERGY Last year, ageing full backs Pablo Zabaleta, Gael Clichy and Aleksandar Kolarov were tasked with providing extra width down the wing. All three left in the close season and Guardiola invested in younger replacements on each side, which immediately reaped rewards. Mendy`s unfortunate injury has deprived City of a potent threat for much of this season, after the Frenchman had settled in very quickly. Kyle Walker, though, has continued to provide that additional option in attack. The England international has provided six Premier League assists, compared to two from Kolarov, Clichy and Zabaleta combined last campaign. Further forward, Bernardo Silva has shown glimpses of his creative ability, but is yet to make a regular starting berth his own. Danilo is another who has provided quality in reserve. Aymeric Laporte became City`s record signing in January, but it would be unfair to judge the young defender after such little time in England. The likes of De Bruyne, David Silva and Sergio Aguero -- all players inherited by Guardiola -- have spearheaded City`s title triumph. But it was the signings in areas City were falling short in, which have helped propel them from nearly men into champions.

How Pep Guardiola's signings turned Manchester City from nearly men into champions

<p><br />
By winning their third title in seven seasons since first being backed by the petro-dollars of Abu Dhabi billionaire Sheikh Mansour, Manchester City can justifiably claim to be the outstanding Premier League club of the current decade.</p>

<p>Even more alarming for their rivals, though, after Manchester United's 1-0 loss to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday sealed City's triumph is that Pep Guardiola's latest fabulous creation may only be at the dawn of a potential new dynasty.</p>

<p>Yet, even if City's season has already been a majestic success, what with a League Cup triumph and winning the Premier League with a record-equalling five matches to spare, a better measure will only come by the end of next season.</p>

<p>For no English champions have successfully defended their Premier League crown since City's once lordly neighbours United won the title for a third straight season in 2008-09.</p>

<p>That side, guided by Alex Ferguson and featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney in their pomp, completed a remarkable three-year spell, also featuring a Champions League win, another final appearance and a Club World Cup triumph.</p>

<p>This is the deafening level of dominance that the team once famously derided as "noisy neighbours" by Ferguson will now be out to cement after what could still end up as an unprecedented 100-goal, 100-point season.</p>

<p>The last decade, though, suggests back-to-back successes will be no given. Ferguson's last United triumph in 2012-13 was by 11 points from the then champions City the following season, under new management, they finished seventh.</p>

<p>Jose Mourinho's 2015 Chelsea side won the league handsomely but could only finish 10th the following campaign. Last season's champions, Chelsea, look unlikely to be in the top four this year.</p>

<p>Yet if any team look capable of bucking this trend, it is Guardiola's latest potential masterpiece, which, remember, is still a work in progress.</p>

<p>He won both La Liga, with Barcelona, and the Bundesliga at Bayern Munich three years in succession, changing attitudes in both the Spanish and German game with the sort of possession-based pass mastery at pace that some believed would be stifled in England. That theory has been wholly debunked.</p>

<p>Certainly, Liverpool's heroics in both the Champions League and Premier League, swarming all over City for three victories this term, and Manchester United's 3-2 comeback win at the Etihad which delayed the coronation, dented the aura.</p>

<p>Those performances offered others a blueprint of how to knock City out of their aristocratic stride, yet still this could not hide the extent of their overall dominance.</p>

<p><strong>CONTINENTAL SUCCESS</strong></p>

<p>The dynasty will only be built on European success, though, and after the quarter-final exit to Liverpool, City's owners, who want a gilded continental powerhouse to match United's global lustre, will demand it and back those demands with huge funding.</p>

<p>Guardiola's talent and commitment is the key to this.</p>

<p>City's fans must have been left with soaring hearts on hearing how the Spaniard, in the second of a three-year deal, had talked of his long-term ambitions to make City's name resonate more in global terms.</p>

<p>"(Manchester City) does not have a history behind it at the level of titles but it does have the desire to become winners," he told a South American TV company.</p>

<p>"I do not rule out continuing to lead in 10 years. It will depend how I feel and if they want me."</p>

<p>Of course, they will want him. Every club does. His imprint in just two seasons has already been immense, vastly improving youthful talent like Raheem Sterling, John Stones, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, none of whom are older than 23.</p>

<p>Key men Fernandinho and David Silva are in their thirties now but much more can be still be expected of Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva alongside Kevin de Bruyne, the league's outstanding player this season.</p>

<p>"We need titles in Europe," Guardiola concedes. "After what this club has done in the last ten years, in terms of creating facilities and making it bigger, it will happen.</p>

<p>"But you need time. It might be next season or the season after that but it will happen, soon it will happen."</p>

<p>Guardiola sounded like a man who will be there when it does.</p>


City have now won their third title in seven seasons

By winning their third title in seven seasons since first being backed by the petro-dollars of Abu Dhabi billionaire Sheikh Mansour, Manchester City can justifiably claim to be the outstanding Premier League club of the current decade. Even more alarming for their rivals, though, after Manchester United's 1-0 loss to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday sealed City's triumph is that Pep Guardiola's latest fabulous creation may only be at the dawn of a potential new dynasty. Yet, even if City's season has already been a majestic success, what with a League Cup triumph and winning the Premier League with a record-equalling five matches to spare, a better measure will only come by the end of next season. For no English champions have successfully defended their Premier League crown since City's once lordly neighbours United won the title for a third straight season in 2008-09. That side, guided by Alex Ferguson and featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney in their pomp, completed a remarkable three-year spell, also featuring a Champions League win, another final appearance and a Club World Cup triumph. This is the deafening level of dominance that the team once famously derided as "noisy neighbours" by Ferguson will now be out to cement after what could still end up as an unprecedented 100-goal, 100-point season. The last decade, though, suggests back-to-back successes will be no given. Ferguson's last United triumph in 2012-13 was by 11 points from the then champions City the following season, under new management, they finished seventh. Jose Mourinho's 2015 Chelsea side won the league handsomely but could only finish 10th the following campaign. Last season's champions, Chelsea, look unlikely to be in the top four this year. Yet if any team look capable of bucking this trend, it is Guardiola's latest potential masterpiece, which, remember, is still a work in progress. He won both La Liga, with Barcelona, and the Bundesliga at Bayern Munich three years in succession, changing attitudes in both the Spanish and German game with the sort of possession-based pass mastery at pace that some believed would be stifled in England. That theory has been wholly debunked. Certainly, Liverpool's heroics in both the Champions League and Premier League, swarming all over City for three victories this term, and Manchester United's 3-2 comeback win at the Etihad which delayed the coronation, dented the aura. Those performances offered others a blueprint of how to knock City out of their aristocratic stride, yet still this could not hide the extent of their overall dominance. CONTINENTAL SUCCESS The dynasty will only be built on European success, though, and after the quarter-final exit to Liverpool, City's owners, who want a gilded continental powerhouse to match United's global lustre, will demand it and back those demands with huge funding. Guardiola's talent and commitment is the key to this. City's fans must have been left with soaring hearts on hearing how the Spaniard, in the second of a three-year deal, had talked of his long-term ambitions to make City's name resonate more in global terms. "(Manchester City) does not have a history behind it at the level of titles but it does have the desire to become winners," he told a South American TV company. "I do not rule out continuing to lead in 10 years. It will depend how I feel and if they want me." Of course, they will want him. Every club does. His imprint in just two seasons has already been immense, vastly improving youthful talent like Raheem Sterling, John Stones, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, none of whom are older than 23. Key men Fernandinho and David Silva are in their thirties now but much more can be still be expected of Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva alongside Kevin de Bruyne, the league's outstanding player this season. "We need titles in Europe," Guardiola concedes. "After what this club has done in the last ten years, in terms of creating facilities and making it bigger, it will happen. "But you need time. It might be next season or the season after that but it will happen, soon it will happen." Guardiola sounded like a man who will be there when it does.

Manchester City win EPL. Start of a dynasty?

<p>World champions Germany drew 1-1 with Spain in a high tempo friendly on Friday as they launched their preparations for a title defence in Russia while their opponents had striker Diego Costa making his long-awaited comeback as a substitute.</p>

<p>Germany&#39;s Thomas Mueller scored with a long-range strike in the 35th minute to cancel out Rodrigo Moreno&#39;s early opener.</p>

<p>The hosts were made to work hard against the Spaniards, who are unbeaten under coach Julen Lopetegui, but still managed to stretch their own unbeaten run to 22 matches, one shy of the German record of 23 dating back to 1978-80.</p>

<p>They can now match it when they take on five-times world champions Brazil on Tuesday when Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, host Argentina in Madrid.</p>

<p>&quot;I think it was a very good test for both teams because both teams combine well when they have possession,&quot; said Germany coach Joachim Loew.</p>

<p>&quot;Spain and us tried to increase the pressure, attack early, press early. It was a high intensity game and a good test to gain a lot of insight. We still have some room for improvement.&quot;</p>

<p>The visitors, with captain Sergio Ramos earning his 150th cap, went ahead when Rodrigo timed his run perfectly to pick up a superb through ball from Andres Iniesta and beat keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the sixth minute.</p>

<p>The Germans, who at times struggled with their opponents&#39; quick passing, managed to draw level with an unstoppable 20-metre strike from Mueller 10 minutes before the break.</p>

<p><strong>Busy Keepers</strong></p>

<p>Keepers David de Gea and Ter Stegen were kept busy after the break and Mats Hummels hit the crossbar with a looping header from a clever Toni Kroos free kick as both sides carved out good chances.</p>

<p>&quot;We have a good feeling after this game against the best team in the world,&quot; said Lopetegui, whose own unbeaten run with Spain is now 17 games.</p>

<p>&quot;We had chances to win the game. Germany are extremely fast and strong. We were fully motivated against the world champions.&quot;</p>

<p>Spain&#39;s Costa made his comeback as a substitute in the second half after the combative forward missed out on playing late last year when he was unable to feature for his club because of a FIFA transfer ban for signing minors.</p>

<p>Atletico completed a 57 million pound ($80.6 million) deal for Costa to rejoin them from Chelsea in September, but the move was delayed because the Liga club could not register new players due to the ban, which ended on Jan. 1.</p>

<p>His return is good news for Lopetegui&#39;s team, one of the title contenders at the World Cup in Russia starting in June.</p>

<p>The Germans have been drawn in Group F of the tournament, along with Mexico, South Korea and Sweden.</p>

<p>Spain are in Group B and will play Iran, Morocco and Portugal.</p>


World champions Germany drew 1-1 with Spain in a high tempo friendly on Friday as they launched their preparations for a title defence in Russia while their opponents had striker Diego Costa making his long-awaited comeback as a substitute

World champions Germany drew 1-1 with Spain in a high tempo friendly on Friday as they launched their preparations for a title defence in Russia while their opponents had striker Diego Costa making his long-awaited comeback as a substitute. Germany's Thomas Mueller scored with a long-range strike in the 35th minute to cancel out Rodrigo Moreno's early opener. The hosts were made to work hard against the Spaniards, who are unbeaten under coach Julen Lopetegui, but still managed to stretch their own unbeaten run to 22 matches, one shy of the German record of 23 dating back to 1978-80. They can now match it when they take on five-times world champions Brazil on Tuesday when Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, host Argentina in Madrid. "I think it was a very good test for both teams because both teams combine well when they have possession," said Germany coach Joachim Loew. "Spain and us tried to increase the pressure, attack early, press early. It was a high intensity game and a good test to gain a lot of insight. We still have some room for improvement." The visitors, with captain Sergio Ramos earning his 150th cap, went ahead when Rodrigo timed his run perfectly to pick up a superb through ball from Andres Iniesta and beat keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the sixth minute. The Germans, who at times struggled with their opponents' quick passing, managed to draw level with an unstoppable 20-metre strike from Mueller 10 minutes before the break. Busy Keepers Keepers David de Gea and Ter Stegen were kept busy after the break and Mats Hummels hit the crossbar with a looping header from a clever Toni Kroos free kick as both sides carved out good chances. "We have a good feeling after this game against the best team in the world," said Lopetegui, whose own unbeaten run with Spain is now 17 games. "We had chances to win the game. Germany are extremely fast and strong. We were fully motivated against the world champions." Spain's Costa made his comeback as a substitute in the second half after the combative forward missed out on playing late last year when he was unable to feature for his club because of a FIFA transfer ban for signing minors. Atletico completed a 57 million pound ($80.6 million) deal for Costa to rejoin them from Chelsea in September, but the move was delayed because the Liga club could not register new players due to the ban, which ended on Jan. 1. His return is good news for Lopetegui's team, one of the title contenders at the World Cup in Russia starting in June. The Germans have been drawn in Group F of the tournament, along with Mexico, South Korea and Sweden. Spain are in Group B and will play Iran, Morocco and Portugal.

Football:  Germany draw 1-1 with Spain as Costa makes comeback

<p>Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the &quot;wrong&quot; time.</p>

<p>Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League&#39;s best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate.</p>

<p>Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form.</p>

<p>&quot;What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market,&quot; said the Manchester United boss. &quot;That&#39;s why I don&#39;t like the winter market very much.</p>

<p>&quot;I think this was a chance that we didn&#39;t want to lose and we made. But we don&#39;t believe a lot in the winter market.</p>

<p>&quot;And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him.&quot;</p>

<p>Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba.</p>

<p>But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team.</p>

<p>&quot;No. That&#39;s something that we can develop and we&#39;re going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together,&quot; said the manager.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I don&#39;t consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed.</p>

<p>&quot;He&#39;s fit and if he is trying too hard, that&#39;s great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things.&quot;</p>

<p>Sanchez&#39;s eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United&#39;s lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title.</p>

<p><strong>Sanchez happy</strong></p>

<p>But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez&#39;s United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy.</p>

<p>&quot;He&#39;s fine,&quot; said the United boss. &quot;He&#39;s happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he&#39;s a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn&#39;t be happier.&quot;</p>

<p>United&#39;s eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City.</p>

<p>And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs.</p>

<p>&quot;They have qualities and they have weaknesses,&quot; he said. &quot;We have qualities, and we have weaknesses.</p>

<p>&quot;And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team&#39;s weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things.</p>

<p>&quot;But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there.&quot;</p>


Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form

Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the "wrong" time. Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League's best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate. Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form. "What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market," said the Manchester United boss. "That's why I don't like the winter market very much. "I think this was a chance that we didn't want to lose and we made. But we don't believe a lot in the winter market. "And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him." Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba. But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team. "No. That's something that we can develop and we're going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together," said the manager. "I don't consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed. "He's fit and if he is trying too hard, that's great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things." Sanchez's eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United's lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title. Sanchez happy But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez's United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy. "He's fine," said the United boss. "He's happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he's a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn't be happier." United's eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City. And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs. "They have qualities and they have weaknesses," he said. "We have qualities, and we have weaknesses. "And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team's weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things. "But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there."

Sanchez transferred to Manchester United at 'wrong' time: Jose Mourinho

<p>Diego Costa helped Atletico Madrid take a big step toward the Europa League quarter-finals by scoring in a 3-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow on Thursday.</p>

<p>Atletico will carry a commanding lead into the second leg in Russia.</p>

<p>Saul Niguez hit the net with a stunning strike at the Wanda Metropolitano before Costa made it two with an instinctive finish.</p>

<p>Koke added a third late on to leave Lokomotiv with a mountain to climb next week.</p>

<p>Costa has six goals in 12 appearances since moving to Atletico from Chelsea in January.</p>

<p>&quot;In the whole game we were superior,&quot; Atletico coach Diego Simeone said.</p>

<p>Security around the game was ramped up amid fears of a repeat of the fan violence that marred Athletic Bilbao&#39;s match against Spartak Moscow a fortnight ago.</p>

<p>Only around 500 Russian supporters were reported to have made the trip to the Spanish capital, however, and there was no visible sign of trouble before kick-off.</p>

<p>Lokomotiv sit seven points clear at the top of the Russian Premier League but this is as far as the club has gone in Europe since reaching the Champions League last 16 in 2004.</p>

<p>&quot;In no way did I feel embarrassment for the team,&quot; Lokomotiv coach Yuri Semin said.</p>

<p>&quot;We do not consider the tie lost.&quot;</p>

<p>Atletico, meanwhile, are rated as Europa League favourites with the bookmakers and, on this evidence, they will take some stopping.</p>

<p>Lokomotiv managed only one shot on target in the 90 minutes.</p>

<p>Both teams stood around the centre circle before kick-off as a minute that began in silence broke into applause in memory of Fiorentina defender Davide Astori, who died suddenly on Sunday.</p>

<p>Atletico controlled possession early on but it took a thunderbolt from distance to break the deadlock.</p>

<p>Saul picked the ball up 30 yards out and without a better option unleashed a left-footed shot that sailed into the top corner.</p>

<p>They should have doubled their lead before half-time. Lokomotiv goalkeeper Guilherme rushed out and was robbed of the ball by Antoine Griezmann on the touchline. With the goal gaping, the Frenchman could only guide his long-range effort wide of the far post.</p>

<p>Costa was more precise early in the second half, however, steering home the rebound after Griezmann had seen his close-range finish saved. Saul had provided the brilliant pass.</p>

<p>Griezmann was taken off in the 66th minute and Costa followed eight minutes later.</p>

<p>But there was still time for a third when Koke burst into the box and prodded a shot into the corner.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Diego Costa helped Atletico Madrid take a big step toward the Europa League quarter-finals by scoring in a 3-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow on Thursday

Diego Costa helped Atletico Madrid take a big step toward the Europa League quarter-finals by scoring in a 3-0 victory over Lokomotiv Moscow on Thursday. Atletico will carry a commanding lead into the second leg in Russia. Saul Niguez hit the net with a stunning strike at the Wanda Metropolitano before Costa made it two with an instinctive finish. Koke added a third late on to leave Lokomotiv with a mountain to climb next week. Costa has six goals in 12 appearances since moving to Atletico from Chelsea in January. "In the whole game we were superior," Atletico coach Diego Simeone said. Security around the game was ramped up amid fears of a repeat of the fan violence that marred Athletic Bilbao's match against Spartak Moscow a fortnight ago. Only around 500 Russian supporters were reported to have made the trip to the Spanish capital, however, and there was no visible sign of trouble before kick-off. Lokomotiv sit seven points clear at the top of the Russian Premier League but this is as far as the club has gone in Europe since reaching the Champions League last 16 in 2004. "In no way did I feel embarrassment for the team," Lokomotiv coach Yuri Semin said. "We do not consider the tie lost." Atletico, meanwhile, are rated as Europa League favourites with the bookmakers and, on this evidence, they will take some stopping. Lokomotiv managed only one shot on target in the 90 minutes. Both teams stood around the centre circle before kick-off as a minute that began in silence broke into applause in memory of Fiorentina defender Davide Astori, who died suddenly on Sunday. Atletico controlled possession early on but it took a thunderbolt from distance to break the deadlock. Saul picked the ball up 30 yards out and without a better option unleashed a left-footed shot that sailed into the top corner. They should have doubled their lead before half-time. Lokomotiv goalkeeper Guilherme rushed out and was robbed of the ball by Antoine Griezmann on the touchline. With the goal gaping, the Frenchman could only guide his long-range effort wide of the far post. Costa was more precise early in the second half, however, steering home the rebound after Griezmann had seen his close-range finish saved. Saul had provided the brilliant pass. Griezmann was taken off in the 66th minute and Costa followed eight minutes later. But there was still time for a third when Koke burst into the box and prodded a shot into the corner.

Costa leads Atletico rout over Lokomotiv Moscow

<p>Arsenal&nbsp;manager Arsene Wenger expressed his relief after his side&#39;s Europa League success at AC Milan on Thursday by describing it as an important win after a nightmare week.</p>

<p>&quot;I am happy with the spirit and response we gave,&quot; said the Frenchman after a 2-0 victory at San Siro in the last 16 first leg tie ended a run of four successive defeats.</p>

<p>&ldquo;We were not in a position to take risks, but we could not be too cautious as you lose fluidity. We defended with resilience until the end,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>&quot;When you are knocked down like a boxer, you don&rsquo;t have time to react and you are only halfway up, but you have to respond. Your pride and desire to show quality has to come through in the game.</p>

<p>&quot;It is an important win of course after we had a nightmare week,&quot; added Wenger, whose side came to Milan after losing to Premier League leaders Manchester City -- who also beat them in last month&#39;s League Cup final -- and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Squad ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreTheArsenal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreTheArsenal</a> <a href="https://t.co/6WwNDnCaq3">pic.twitter.com/6WwNDnCaq3</a></p>
&mdash; Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/971915723156045824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Arsenal&#39;s Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil described the win in Milan as &quot;our best away performance for some time&quot;, while Aaron Ramsey, scorer of the second goal, called it a &quot;great response.&quot;</p>

<p>Arsenal&nbsp;are 13 points adrift of the Champions League places in the Premier League and are pinning their hopes on winning the Europa League to qualify for Europe&#39;s elite club competition.</p>

<p>Not surprisingly, Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso was far from happy after seeing his team&#39;s 13-match unbeaten run end.</p>

<p>&quot;We made too many mistakes,&quot; he said. &quot;We never played as a compact team and they deserved the win.</p>

<p>&quot;Every time they attacked, they could have scored. Playing at this level is something new for our lads but there were too many mistakes,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>However, the famously fiery coach refused to throw in the towel in the tie.</p>

<p>&quot;In football, you never say never,&quot; he said. &quot;We&#39;ll go to London to try and win, we&#39;re not going on an excursion. This is Milan and there is a shirt we have to respect.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It is an important win of course after we had a nightmare week: Arsene Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger expressed his relief after his side's Europa League success at AC Milan on Thursday by describing it as an important win after a nightmare week. "I am happy with the spirit and response we gave," said the Frenchman after a 2-0 victory at San Siro in the last 16 first leg tie ended a run of four successive defeats. “We were not in a position to take risks, but we could not be too cautious as you lose fluidity. We defended with resilience until the end," he said. "When you are knocked down like a boxer, you don’t have time to react and you are only halfway up, but you have to respond. Your pride and desire to show quality has to come through in the game. "It is an important win of course after we had a nightmare week," added Wenger, whose side came to Milan after losing to Premier League leaders Manchester City -- who also beat them in last month's League Cup final -- and Brighton & Hove Albion. Squad ????#WeAreTheArsenal pic.twitter.com/6WwNDnCaq3 — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) March 9, 2018 × Arsenal's Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil described the win in Milan as "our best away performance for some time", while Aaron Ramsey, scorer of the second goal, called it a "great response." Arsenal are 13 points adrift of the Champions League places in the Premier League and are pinning their hopes on winning the Europa League to qualify for Europe's elite club competition. Not surprisingly, Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso was far from happy after seeing his team's 13-match unbeaten run end. "We made too many mistakes," he said. "We never played as a compact team and they deserved the win. "Every time they attacked, they could have scored. Playing at this level is something new for our lads but there were too many mistakes," he added. However, the famously fiery coach refused to throw in the towel in the tie. "In football, you never say never," he said. "We'll go to London to try and win, we're not going on an excursion. This is Milan and there is a shirt we have to respect."

Arsenal beat AC Milan to register much-awaited victory

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Paris Saint Germain needs to create chances and the presure of&nbsp;Neymar&#39;s absence must not affect the team&#39;s performance</strong></p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Paris​ have lost just one of their last 46 European home games ????<br />
<br />
Are they strong enough to see off Madrid?<br />
<br />
<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></p>
&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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<p>Brazil&#39;s Paris St Germain forward Neymar has had a successful operation on his injured foot and ankle.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Kylian Mbappe is looking good at the moment with some outstanding assists in the previous matches.</p>

<p><strong>Real has the confidence and Charged up and Marcelo&#39;s return is a plus point</strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">???? Ronaldo doing what he does!<br />
<br />
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></p>
&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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<p>Captain Sergio Ramos said, &quot;The Champions League means a lot to us,&quot;</p>

<p>&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.</p>

<p>Marcelo has returned from injury and he is a big advantage for the team.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>FC Barcelona defeated the visitors Atletico Madrid by 1-0 at their home ground&nbsp;Camp Nou on Sunday. Both the teams are neck-to-neck and are racing to be at number one spot at the Spanish League table. Barca has maintained a modest lead throughout the season but in the previous matches, Atletico displayed a splendid performance to cut the gap between them and the table leaders.</p>

<p>FC Barcelona was five points ahead of second-ranked Atletico Madrid which further extended to eight as marvellous Messi netted in the 26th minute by clearing a free-kick and hitting a swinging banana shot into the top right corner and gave a 1-0 lead. It was Messi&#39;s 600th career goal from 25 yards out.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">???? Another landmark for Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>!<br />
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/2M3jsXs79U">https://t.co/2M3jsXs79U</a> <a href="https://t.co/kqLEVeAVBY">pic.twitter.com/kqLEVeAVBY</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/970392218602233856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Messi&#39;s goal gave Barcelona a 1-0 win against second-place Atletico Madrid and widened the gap over their closest rivals to eight points with 11 games remaining.</p>

<p>Besides Barca fans and followers, the coach Ernesto Valverde is also very happy after the vital win against Atletico. In the post-match presentation, he said, &quot;(Lionel) Messi there is just one in the world.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;I don&#39;t know what would have happened (if he would not be playing for Barcelona), but what is the reason to think about that if he is playing with us?&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also focused on further matches and hoped the team would compete well in such important and crucial games and said, &quot;We have made a step forward, but it is not definitive.&quot;</p>

<p>Before the match, Atletico coach Diego Simeone had hailed&nbsp;Griezmann saying, &quot;Antoine is an extraordinary footballer and when he is at his level like this, he is one of the best, and it is clear that in his present position he is in the perfect place.&quot;</p>

<p>But Atletico striker Antoine Griezmann, who came in with seven goals in two games, was largely anonymous.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Messi's goal gave Barcelona a 1-0 win against second-place Atletico Madrid and widened the gap over their closest rivals to eight points with 11 games remaining

FC Barcelona defeated the visitors Atletico Madrid by 1-0 at their home ground Camp Nou on Sunday. Both the teams are neck-to-neck and are racing to be at number one spot at the Spanish League table. Barca has maintained a modest lead throughout the season but in the previous matches, Atletico displayed a splendid performance to cut the gap between them and the table leaders. FC Barcelona was five points ahead of second-ranked Atletico Madrid which further extended to eight as marvellous Messi netted in the 26th minute by clearing a free-kick and hitting a swinging banana shot into the top right corner and gave a 1-0 lead. It was Messi's 600th career goal from 25 yards out. ???? Another landmark for Leo #Messi! ➡️ https://t.co/2M3jsXs79U pic.twitter.com/kqLEVeAVBY — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 4, 2018 × Messi's goal gave Barcelona a 1-0 win against second-place Atletico Madrid and widened the gap over their closest rivals to eight points with 11 games remaining. Besides Barca fans and followers, the coach Ernesto Valverde is also very happy after the vital win against Atletico. In the post-match presentation, he said, "(Lionel) Messi there is just one in the world." "I don't know what would have happened (if he would not be playing for Barcelona), but what is the reason to think about that if he is playing with us?" He also focused on further matches and hoped the team would compete well in such important and crucial games and said, "We have made a step forward, but it is not definitive." Before the match, Atletico coach Diego Simeone had hailed Griezmann saying, "Antoine is an extraordinary footballer and when he is at his level like this, he is one of the best, and it is clear that in his present position he is in the perfect place." But Atletico striker Antoine Griezmann, who came in with seven goals in two games, was largely anonymous.

Messi just one in the world: FCB coach Ernesto Valverde

<p>&quot;I think the pundit has to use the head when you speak tactics because you must have the knowledge to speak about tactics,&quot; said&nbsp;Chelsea manager Antonio Conte while defending&nbsp;the tactics of his team in the Sunday&#39;s match, which they eventually lost by 0-1 against the table leader Manchester City.</p>

<p>Conte defended his cautious approach despite his side failing to register a shot on target as they went down 1-0 to Premier League champions-elect Manchester City.</p>

<p>The Italian&#39;s tactics were lambasted by pundits and Chelsea fans alike as he started without a recognised striker by leaving club-record signing Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud on the bench.</p>

<p>City moved 18 points clear at the top of the table, and 25 ahead of Chelsea in fifth, as Bernardo Silva&#39;s goal 35 seconds into the second half broke the visitors&#39; resistance.</p>

<p>However, Conte claimed it would be &quot;stupid&quot; to open up against the runaway league leaders, citing criticism of Arsenal`s back-to-back 3-0 defeats to City in the League Cup final and Premier League in the past week.</p>

<p>&quot;I&#39;m not so stupid to play against Man City open and lose 3-0 or 4-0,&quot; said Conte.</p>

<p>&quot;If I remember well, Arsenal three days ago played against them and you criticise (Arsene) Wenger because they concede three goals.</p>

<p>Chelsea, though, had no response after going behind as Conte waited until 12 minutes from time to introduce Giroud, whilst Morata wasn`t brought on until the final minute when he replaced Chelsea&#39;s top scorer Eden Hazard.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Great performance boys! A step closer! ???????????????????????? <a href="https://t.co/pfG1tbk2gB">pic.twitter.com/pfG1tbk2gB</a></p>
&mdash; David Silva (@21LVA) <a href="https://twitter.com/21LVA/status/970369878766112768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Belgian ploughed a lonely furrow as an auxiliary central forward but had no impact on the game before trudging off with his head bowed to make way for Morata.</p>

<p>&quot;I try to wait because the (Morata) substitution was with (Eden) Hazard and you hope until the end that a player like Hazard can invent something in the game,&quot; added Conte.</p>

<p>A fourth defeat in five Premier League games leaves Chelsea&#39;s ambitions of Champions League football next season in serious peril.</p>

<p>Conte&#39;s men now trail Tottenham Hotspur in fourth by five points.<br />
However, the former Juventus boss insisted it wasn&#39;t his side&#39;s performance at the Etihad that will come back to haunt them if they fail to make the top four.</p>

<p>&quot;We must have a big regret for the defeat against Bournemouth, Watford, (Manchester) United, but I don&#39;t think today because today we played against a team that is showing to be a strong team,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>&quot;Today they showed the difference between them and us in this moment. Twenty-five points is a big gap and I think that we can have a regret for the other games but not for this.&quot;</p>

<p>City boss Pep Guardiola wouldn`t be drawn on Chelsea`s tactics as his side registered 902 passes - the most of any team in a Premier League game for 14 years.</p>

<p>However, he hailed the standards set by his players.</p>

<p>&quot;In all aspects we were better. We make an amazing high pressing, they could not contact with Hazard, Willian or Pedro (Rodriguez).</p>

<p>&quot;We didn&#39;t concede one shot on target, we create enough chances to win, and I think we made an amazing performance because (it) is against Chelsea, the last champion.&quot;</p>

<p>Guardiola admitted even he has been surprised by the extent of City&#39;s dominance this season, but insisted it is to their credit rather than the other contenders falling away.</p>

<p>&quot;To have the distance from five or six contenders: 25 to Chelsea; 33 for Arsenal; United tomorrow (are) going to play; 20 to Tottenham, in March it is a lot.</p>

<p>&quot;I think Tottenham, Liverpool, United even, they make good results but we were so good so far.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Manchester City moved 18 points clear at the top of the table, and 25 ahead of Chelsea in fifth, as Bernardo Silva's goal 35 seconds into the second half broke the visitors' resistance

"I think the pundit has to use the head when you speak tactics because you must have the knowledge to speak about tactics," said Chelsea manager Antonio Conte while defending the tactics of his team in the Sunday's match, which they eventually lost by 0-1 against the table leader Manchester City. Conte defended his cautious approach despite his side failing to register a shot on target as they went down 1-0 to Premier League champions-elect Manchester City. The Italian's tactics were lambasted by pundits and Chelsea fans alike as he started without a recognised striker by leaving club-record signing Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud on the bench. City moved 18 points clear at the top of the table, and 25 ahead of Chelsea in fifth, as Bernardo Silva's goal 35 seconds into the second half broke the visitors' resistance. However, Conte claimed it would be "stupid" to open up against the runaway league leaders, citing criticism of Arsenal`s back-to-back 3-0 defeats to City in the League Cup final and Premier League in the past week. "I'm not so stupid to play against Man City open and lose 3-0 or 4-0," said Conte. "If I remember well, Arsenal three days ago played against them and you criticise (Arsene) Wenger because they concede three goals. Chelsea, though, had no response after going behind as Conte waited until 12 minutes from time to introduce Giroud, whilst Morata wasn`t brought on until the final minute when he replaced Chelsea's top scorer Eden Hazard. Great performance boys! A step closer! ???????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/pfG1tbk2gB — David Silva (@21LVA) March 4, 2018 × The Belgian ploughed a lonely furrow as an auxiliary central forward but had no impact on the game before trudging off with his head bowed to make way for Morata. "I try to wait because the (Morata) substitution was with (Eden) Hazard and you hope until the end that a player like Hazard can invent something in the game," added Conte. A fourth defeat in five Premier League games leaves Chelsea's ambitions of Champions League football next season in serious peril. Conte's men now trail Tottenham Hotspur in fourth by five points. However, the former Juventus boss insisted it wasn't his side's performance at the Etihad that will come back to haunt them if they fail to make the top four. "We must have a big regret for the defeat against Bournemouth, Watford, (Manchester) United, but I don't think today because today we played against a team that is showing to be a strong team," he said. "Today they showed the difference between them and us in this moment. Twenty-five points is a big gap and I think that we can have a regret for the other games but not for this." City boss Pep Guardiola wouldn`t be drawn on Chelsea`s tactics as his side registered 902 passes - the most of any team in a Premier League game for 14 years. However, he hailed the standards set by his players. "In all aspects we were better. We make an amazing high pressing, they could not contact with Hazard, Willian or Pedro (Rodriguez). "We didn't concede one shot on target, we create enough chances to win, and I think we made an amazing performance because (it) is against Chelsea, the last champion." Guardiola admitted even he has been surprised by the extent of City's dominance this season, but insisted it is to their credit rather than the other contenders falling away. "To have the distance from five or six contenders: 25 to Chelsea; 33 for Arsenal; United tomorrow (are) going to play; 20 to Tottenham, in March it is a lot. "I think Tottenham, Liverpool, United even, they make good results but we were so good so far."

Bernardo Silva thrashes Chelsea's 'tactics' to stretch City's lead

<p>Arsene Wenger said Arsenal must recover quickly if they are to avoid suffering a fifth successive defeat when they visit AC Milan in the Europa League this week.</p>

<p>The under-fire Gunners manager accepted winning the competition marks his side&#39;s best hope of returning to the Champions League next season after a 2-1 defeat at Brighton left Arsenal 13 points adrift of the Premier League&#39;s top four.</p>

<p>But Wenger warned the effects of the London club`s recent schedule that included back-to-back 3-0 losses to Manchester City in the League Cup final and the league, had taken their toll on his players.</p>

<p>Wenger gave fatigue as the reason he opted to leave Aaron Ramsey, Hector Bellerin and Danny Welbeck out of his starting line-up at south coast club Brighton&#39;s Amex Stadium and the veteran manager is hoping his decision means he can call on fresh legs at the San Siro.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">&quot;Couldn&#39;t have been placed better&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoalOfTheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoalOfTheDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialBHAFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialBHAFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/n9GHoSmham">pic.twitter.com/n9GHoSmham</a></p>
&mdash; Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/970438827629260801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;It is important to recover mentally and physically, we are still jaded today, we gave a lot on Thursday night (against Manchester City) and you can see that today,&quot; he said after Sunday`s latest setback.</p>

<p>&quot;We have to continue, first to recover now. We play Sunday, Thursday, Sunday, Sunday... it&#39;s nearly physically impossible to play this number of games.</p>

<p>&quot;The veteran French boss, who took charge at Arsenal in 1996, added: &quot;I left Ramsey out completely of the squad, left him at home, after everything he gave physically. We have to be realistic, we need two teams to collapse to qualify for the Champions League, and I don`t see that happening.</p>

<p>&quot;Two teams to drop so many points is very difficult to imagine. But we have to give our best as long as we can, and the Europa League becomes important.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chris Hughton is only the 3rd manager to beat Arsene Wenger in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> with three different clubs (after Mark Hughes &amp; Sam Allardyce)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BHAARS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BHAARS</a> <a href="https://t.co/t5y8caNm4j">pic.twitter.com/t5y8caNm4j</a></p>
&mdash; Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/970397484064366593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>First-half goals from Brighton`s Lewis Dunk and Glenn Murray put Chris Hughton&#39;s side in control, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang replying for Arsenal.</p>

<p>Wenger admitted his side&#39;s confidence is low after a woeful run that has brought eight defeats since the turn of the year and he said he did not wish to add to that problem by criticising the display against Brighton.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s difficult for me to get into any negative assessment,&quot; he explained. &quot;The team needs more support at the moment. Tough objective judgement as well.&quot;</p>

<p>Wenger, in a somewhat bizarre analogy more befitting the occasional ramblings of compatriot Eric Cantona, the former Manchester United star, added: &quot;When you struggle for confidence, it&#39;s difficult as well when you have just the trousers on... It&#39;s easy to take the trousers off as well, but when you are naked completely you have to try and find a shirt and get dressed properly again.&quot;</p>

<p>Defeat intensified the pressure on Wenger but he insisted he had more immediate concerns.</p>

<p>&quot;At the moment, my future is not my main worry. My worry is to get Arsenal winning football games. Then we&#39;ll see where we go from there. I`ll try and give my best as long as I am here.&quot;</p>

<p>Brighton is now seven points clear of the bottom three and manager Hughton said: &quot;It&#39;s relieved a bit of the pressure of having to get a result. It&#39;s a nice position to be in.</p>

<p>&quot;Hopefully it will create some confidence. This group are working that hard, giving themselves every chance.&quot;</p>

<p>Hughton added: &quot;But we`re all professionals around here and, come tomorrow, our thoughts have to be in the next game -- can we get more points to make it even more comforting?&nbsp;&quot;As soon as you take your foot off the pedal, there are too many good teams around who can knock you down again.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The under-fire Gunners manager accepted winning the competition marks his side's best hope of returning to the Champions League next season

Arsene Wenger said Arsenal must recover quickly if they are to avoid suffering a fifth successive defeat when they visit AC Milan in the Europa League this week. The under-fire Gunners manager accepted winning the competition marks his side's best hope of returning to the Champions League next season after a 2-1 defeat at Brighton left Arsenal 13 points adrift of the Premier League's top four. But Wenger warned the effects of the London club`s recent schedule that included back-to-back 3-0 losses to Manchester City in the League Cup final and the league, had taken their toll on his players. Wenger gave fatigue as the reason he opted to leave Aaron Ramsey, Hector Bellerin and Danny Welbeck out of his starting line-up at south coast club Brighton's Amex Stadium and the veteran manager is hoping his decision means he can call on fresh legs at the San Siro. "Couldn't have been placed better"#GoalOfTheDay @OfficialBHAFC pic.twitter.com/n9GHoSmham — Premier League (@premierleague) March 4, 2018 × "It is important to recover mentally and physically, we are still jaded today, we gave a lot on Thursday night (against Manchester City) and you can see that today," he said after Sunday`s latest setback. "We have to continue, first to recover now. We play Sunday, Thursday, Sunday, Sunday... it's nearly physically impossible to play this number of games. "The veteran French boss, who took charge at Arsenal in 1996, added: "I left Ramsey out completely of the squad, left him at home, after everything he gave physically. We have to be realistic, we need two teams to collapse to qualify for the Champions League, and I don`t see that happening. "Two teams to drop so many points is very difficult to imagine. But we have to give our best as long as we can, and the Europa League becomes important." Chris Hughton is only the 3rd manager to beat Arsene Wenger in the #PL with three different clubs (after Mark Hughes & Sam Allardyce)#BHAARS pic.twitter.com/t5y8caNm4j — Premier League (@premierleague) March 4, 2018 × First-half goals from Brighton`s Lewis Dunk and Glenn Murray put Chris Hughton's side in control, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang replying for Arsenal. Wenger admitted his side's confidence is low after a woeful run that has brought eight defeats since the turn of the year and he said he did not wish to add to that problem by criticising the display against Brighton. "It's difficult for me to get into any negative assessment," he explained. "The team needs more support at the moment. Tough objective judgement as well." Wenger, in a somewhat bizarre analogy more befitting the occasional ramblings of compatriot Eric Cantona, the former Manchester United star, added: "When you struggle for confidence, it's difficult as well when you have just the trousers on... It's easy to take the trousers off as well, but when you are naked completely you have to try and find a shirt and get dressed properly again." Defeat intensified the pressure on Wenger but he insisted he had more immediate concerns. "At the moment, my future is not my main worry. My worry is to get Arsenal winning football games. Then we'll see where we go from there. I`ll try and give my best as long as I am here." Brighton is now seven points clear of the bottom three and manager Hughton said: "It's relieved a bit of the pressure of having to get a result. It's a nice position to be in. "Hopefully it will create some confidence. This group are working that hard, giving themselves every chance." Hughton added: "But we`re all professionals around here and, come tomorrow, our thoughts have to be in the next game -- can we get more points to make it even more comforting? "As soon as you take your foot off the pedal, there are too many good teams around who can knock you down again."

Arsene Wenger wary of Milan as Arsenal try to snap losing run

<p>FC Barcelona won against the visitors Atletico Madrid by 1-0&nbsp;at Camp Nou on Sunday. The match was labelled as &quot;the Grand Final&quot; by some Spanish media houses,&nbsp;as&nbsp;both the teams are neck-to-neck and are&nbsp;racing to be at number spot in the League table.</p>

<p>The game started in the second half when Atletico Madrid displayed enough intent and courage to win the Spanish title race. Otherwise, the first half was entirely dominated by FC Barcelona and&nbsp;Atletico seemed as if they have surrendered in the initial 45 minutes.</p>

<p>Barcelona sent the first warning in the 3rd minute itself by earning a corner, they had put Atletico under immense pressure by claiming 5 corners within 12 minutes, though, none of them was converted. Atletico striker Antoine Griezmann, meanwhile, who came in with seven goals in two games, was largely anonymous.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Vital win ???? <a href="https://t.co/niHSuzyN5m">pic.twitter.com/niHSuzyN5m</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/970351018536873984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Despite the massive dominance, few of the Barca&#39;s stars were unlucky to some extent, first Luis Suarez as two of his goals were offsides. He thought he had scored a second after half-volleying through Oblak&#39;s legs but was flagged offside before Jose Gimenez applied a crucial block to deflect a Messi shot over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And Iniesta, who suffered an injury to his right hamstring during and will have more tests tomorrow will provide more insight into his condition. Iniesta now has 10 days to recover before next week&#39;s Champions League second leg against Chelsea.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">[INJURY NEWS] <a href="https://twitter.com/andresiniesta8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andresiniesta8</a> has a hamstring injury in his right leg. More tests are needed to find out the extent of the problem <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/2rhv79AekT">pic.twitter.com/2rhv79AekT</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/970336976137342981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>FC Barcelona was five points ahead of second-ranked Atletico Madrid which extended to eight as marvellous Messi netted in the 26th minute by clearing a free-kick by hitting a swinging banana shot into the top right corner and gave a 1-0 lead. It was Messi&#39;s 600th career goal from a free-kick from 25 yards out.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">???? With that goal Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> reaches 600 as a professional! ????<br />
???????? 539 ⚽<br />
???????? 61 ⚽<br />
???? Congratulations, Leo! ???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/8o7gBNoSaH">pic.twitter.com/8o7gBNoSaH</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/970324755327963136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The second half was bit competitive but the 1-0 lead helped the Catalans to maintain the pressure and the efforts of Atletico Madrid went in vain.</p>

<p>Though they were close to equalizing and almost did also but the goal in the second half was offside, a very close one.</p>

<p>FC Barcelona has earned a crucial 3 points and stand at top of LaLiga charts and continues its unbeaten run.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">????<br />
???? <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLiga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaLiga</a><br />
???????? For&ccedil;a Bar&ccedil;a <a href="https://t.co/riabW56GFS">pic.twitter.com/riabW56GFS</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/970349427528433664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi scored from the 25 yards out and whipped the free-kick beyond the scrambling Oblak and into the top corner

FC Barcelona won against the visitors Atletico Madrid by 1-0 at Camp Nou on Sunday. The match was labelled as "the Grand Final" by some Spanish media houses, as both the teams are neck-to-neck and are racing to be at number spot in the League table. The game started in the second half when Atletico Madrid displayed enough intent and courage to win the Spanish title race. Otherwise, the first half was entirely dominated by FC Barcelona and Atletico seemed as if they have surrendered in the initial 45 minutes. Barcelona sent the first warning in the 3rd minute itself by earning a corner, they had put Atletico under immense pressure by claiming 5 corners within 12 minutes, though, none of them was converted. Atletico striker Antoine Griezmann, meanwhile, who came in with seven goals in two games, was largely anonymous. Vital win ???? pic.twitter.com/niHSuzyN5m — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 4, 2018 × Despite the massive dominance, few of the Barca's stars were unlucky to some extent, first Luis Suarez as two of his goals were offsides. He thought he had scored a second after half-volleying through Oblak's legs but was flagged offside before Jose Gimenez applied a crucial block to deflect a Messi shot over. And Iniesta, who suffered an injury to his right hamstring during and will have more tests tomorrow will provide more insight into his condition. Iniesta now has 10 days to recover before next week's Champions League second leg against Chelsea. [INJURY NEWS] @andresiniesta8 has a hamstring injury in his right leg. More tests are needed to find out the extent of the problem #BarçaAtleti pic.twitter.com/2rhv79AekT — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 4, 2018 × FC Barcelona was five points ahead of second-ranked Atletico Madrid which extended to eight as marvellous Messi netted in the 26th minute by clearing a free-kick by hitting a swinging banana shot into the top right corner and gave a 1-0 lead. It was Messi's 600th career goal from a free-kick from 25 yards out. ???? With that goal Leo #Messi reaches 600 as a professional! ???? ???????? 539 ⚽ ???????? 61 ⚽ ???? Congratulations, Leo! ???? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/8o7gBNoSaH — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 4, 2018 × The second half was bit competitive but the 1-0 lead helped the Catalans to maintain the pressure and the efforts of Atletico Madrid went in vain. Though they were close to equalizing and almost did also but the goal in the second half was offside, a very close one. FC Barcelona has earned a crucial 3 points and stand at top of LaLiga charts and continues its unbeaten run. ???? ???? @LaLiga ???????? Força Barça pic.twitter.com/riabW56GFS — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 4, 2018 ×

Messi makes difference again to beat Atletico Madrid

<p>Tottenham Hotspur apparently affected early in the season by playing home games at Wembley, achieved a sixth straight win there by beating Huddersfield Town 2-0 with a double by Son Heung-min in the Premier League on Saturday.</p>

<p>It was their 17th game unbeaten in all competitions and moved them up to provisional third place, a point ahead of Liverpool, who were playing later at home to Newcastle United.</p>

<p>South Korean Son Heung-min gave Spurs a halftime lead and added the second with a header from Harry Kane&#39;s superb cross before being substituted to an ovation.</p>

<p>&quot;We feel comfortable at Wembley, we enjoy playing here,&quot; Son said after scoring four times this week at the national stadium where Tottenham are playing while they build a new home ground.</p>

<p>Spurs, who did not win in their first three league games there, are a point behind second-placed Manchester United, who play at Crystal Palace on Monday and five ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea, who visit runaway leaders Manchester City on Sunday.</p>

<p>The defeat pushed Huddersfield right back into the relegation mix, only three points above the bottom three, after winning their two previous games.</p>

<p>Swansea City were the big winners at the bottom, moving above five teams to 13th, including West Ham United who they beat 4-1.</p>

<p>The first half was extended by 10 minutes after a bad injury to West Ham&#39;s New Zealand defender Winston Reid and by the interval the visitors were two goals down.</p>

<p>Ki Sung-Yeung scored the first after nine minutes and the unmarked Mike van der Hoon added a second in the 32nd.</p>

<p>Andy King&#39;s goal and Jordan Ayew&#39;s penalty ensured victory before a consolation by Michail Antonio.</p>

<p>West Ham manager David Moyes, whose team travelled seven hours by coach to reach Swansea from London on Friday after their flight was cancelled, was bitterly disappointed with the performance, their worst since he took over in November.</p>

<p>&quot;I&#39;m embarrassed,&quot; he told reporters. &quot;We played so bad. I couldn&#39;t assess it, it was that poor. The fans travelled through the snow to get here and we let them down badly. That was the poorest performance since I came here.&quot;</p>

<p>Victory continued Swansea&#39;s improved form under Portuguese manager Carlos Carvalhal.</p>

<p>Since he joined the club at the end of December with Swansea bottom they have won five league games and lost only two.</p>

<p><strong>Pardew despair</strong></p>

<p>In contrast, West Bromwich Albion&#39;s change of manager in the same month has not paid off.</p>

<p>Alan Pardew&#39;s job appears to be under greater threat than ever after a 1-0 defeat at Watford.</p>

<p>Albion has now won one of 15 league games since Pardew took over at the start of December and are seven points adrift at the bottom of the table.</p>

<p>Watford captain Troy Deeney was sent clear by Will Hughes to score the only goal.</p>

<p>&quot;The players gave me everything today and I cannot ask for more than that,&quot; Pardew said.</p>

<p>&quot;It is tough but it isn&#39;t about me, it about West Brom and it is tough for the fans and the players.&quot;</p>

<p>Stoke City stayed second-bottom but earned a valuable point in a 0-0 draw at Southampton.</p>

<p>Burnley supporters must have despaired when their team went a goal down at home to Everton. Sean Dyche&#39;s team have never won a Premier League game after falling behind.</p>

<p>This time they did, however, celebrating Dyche&#39;s 250th game as manager by winning 2-1 with goals from Ashley Barnes and substitute Chris Wood.</p>

<p>Everton captain Ashley Williams was sent off four minutes from the end for a wild swipe at Barnes.</p>

<p>In Sunday&#39;s other match, Arsene Wenger&#39;s struggling sixth-placed Arsenal visit mid-table Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.</p>


Tottenham Hotspur achieved a sixth straight win there by beating Huddersfield Town 2-0

Tottenham Hotspur apparently affected early in the season by playing home games at Wembley, achieved a sixth straight win there by beating Huddersfield Town 2-0 with a double by Son Heung-min in the Premier League on Saturday. It was their 17th game unbeaten in all competitions and moved them up to provisional third place, a point ahead of Liverpool, who were playing later at home to Newcastle United. South Korean Son Heung-min gave Spurs a halftime lead and added the second with a header from Harry Kane's superb cross before being substituted to an ovation. "We feel comfortable at Wembley, we enjoy playing here," Son said after scoring four times this week at the national stadium where Tottenham are playing while they build a new home ground. Spurs, who did not win in their first three league games there, are a point behind second-placed Manchester United, who play at Crystal Palace on Monday and five ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea, who visit runaway leaders Manchester City on Sunday. The defeat pushed Huddersfield right back into the relegation mix, only three points above the bottom three, after winning their two previous games. Swansea City were the big winners at the bottom, moving above five teams to 13th, including West Ham United who they beat 4-1. The first half was extended by 10 minutes after a bad injury to West Ham's New Zealand defender Winston Reid and by the interval the visitors were two goals down. Ki Sung-Yeung scored the first after nine minutes and the unmarked Mike van der Hoon added a second in the 32nd. Andy King's goal and Jordan Ayew's penalty ensured victory before a consolation by Michail Antonio. West Ham manager David Moyes, whose team travelled seven hours by coach to reach Swansea from London on Friday after their flight was cancelled, was bitterly disappointed with the performance, their worst since he took over in November. "I'm embarrassed," he told reporters. "We played so bad. I couldn't assess it, it was that poor. The fans travelled through the snow to get here and we let them down badly. That was the poorest performance since I came here." Victory continued Swansea's improved form under Portuguese manager Carlos Carvalhal. Since he joined the club at the end of December with Swansea bottom they have won five league games and lost only two. Pardew despair In contrast, West Bromwich Albion's change of manager in the same month has not paid off. Alan Pardew's job appears to be under greater threat than ever after a 1-0 defeat at Watford. Albion has now won one of 15 league games since Pardew took over at the start of December and are seven points adrift at the bottom of the table. Watford captain Troy Deeney was sent clear by Will Hughes to score the only goal. "The players gave me everything today and I cannot ask for more than that," Pardew said. "It is tough but it isn't about me, it about West Brom and it is tough for the fans and the players." Stoke City stayed second-bottom but earned a valuable point in a 0-0 draw at Southampton. Burnley supporters must have despaired when their team went a goal down at home to Everton. Sean Dyche's team have never won a Premier League game after falling behind. This time they did, however, celebrating Dyche's 250th game as manager by winning 2-1 with goals from Ashley Barnes and substitute Chris Wood. Everton captain Ashley Williams was sent off four minutes from the end for a wild swipe at Barnes. In Sunday's other match, Arsene Wenger's struggling sixth-placed Arsenal visit mid-table Brighton & Hove Albion.

EPL: Tottenham win at Wembley again, West Brom sinking fast

<p>Usain Bolt, the fastest man on earth has finally revealed that which football team he has signed for after announcing his interest to conquer the football field since retiring from sprint racing last year.</p>

<p>Multiple Olympic champion Usain Bolt is a die-hard Manchester United fan but his football debut is not for The Red Devils, it is actually&nbsp;for the &#39;Rest of the World&#39; team in the charity match.</p>

<p>Earlier he had revealed playing football is something that he wants to pursue and since then, the world was waiting for his arrival on the football ground.</p>

<p>He will lead the &#39;Rest of the World&nbsp;XI&#39; against &#39;Robbie Williams&#39; England&#39; side on Sunday, June 10 at Soccer Aid 2018 Old Trafford.</p>

<p>Soccer Aid, which has raised over &pound;20 million for UNICEF&nbsp;was started in 2006. The event previously featured Diego Maradona, Zinedine Zidane and Peter Schmeichel, along with celebs such as Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson and James McAvoy.</p>

<p>The Jamaican multi-time sprint champion also took to the racing track to greet young fans and show off his trademark &#39;lightning&nbsp;bolt&#39; pose.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I&#39;ve signed for a football team! Find out which one this Tuesday at 8am GMT ???? <a href="https://t.co/iFTlWxfy7x">pic.twitter.com/iFTlWxfy7x</a></p>
&mdash; Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) <a href="https://twitter.com/usainbolt/status/967821399430705152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Excited to announce that I will be playing in <a href="https://twitter.com/socceraid?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@socceraid</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEF_uk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNICEF_uk</a> 2018 at Old Trafford on Sunday 10th June. Make sure you&#39;re ready <a href="https://twitter.com/robbiewilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@robbiewilliams</a>! ⚽️???? <a href="https://t.co/t2sDB1iLP8">pic.twitter.com/t2sDB1iLP8</a></p>
&mdash; Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) <a href="https://twitter.com/usainbolt/status/968395228855062529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/usainbolt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UsainBolt</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/robbiewilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RobbieWilliams</a> to go head-to-head at Old Trafford this summer... all in the name of charity, of course!<br />
<br />
Don&rsquo;t miss <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SoccerAid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SoccerAid</a> on 10 June: <a href="https://t.co/tRIPE78SvO">https://t.co/tRIPE78SvO</a> <a href="https://t.co/orSpfpLF7E">pic.twitter.com/orSpfpLF7E</a></p>
&mdash; Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/968396063110557697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Usain Bolt to play at Old Trafford in 2018 Soccer Aid charity match

Usain Bolt, the fastest man on earth has finally revealed that which football team he has signed for after announcing his interest to conquer the football field since retiring from sprint racing last year. Multiple Olympic champion Usain Bolt is a die-hard Manchester United fan but his football debut is not for The Red Devils, it is actually for the 'Rest of the World' team in the charity match. Earlier he had revealed playing football is something that he wants to pursue and since then, the world was waiting for his arrival on the football ground. He will lead the 'Rest of the World XI' against 'Robbie Williams' England' side on Sunday, June 10 at Soccer Aid 2018 Old Trafford. Soccer Aid, which has raised over £20 million for UNICEF was started in 2006. The event previously featured Diego Maradona, Zinedine Zidane and Peter Schmeichel, along with celebs such as Will Ferrell, Woody Harrelson and James McAvoy. The Jamaican multi-time sprint champion also took to the racing track to greet young fans and show off his trademark 'lightning bolt' pose. I've signed for a football team! Find out which one this Tuesday at 8am GMT ???? pic.twitter.com/iFTlWxfy7x — Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) February 25, 2018 × Excited to announce that I will be playing in @socceraid for @UNICEF_uk 2018 at Old Trafford on Sunday 10th June. Make sure you're ready @robbiewilliams! ⚽️???? pic.twitter.com/t2sDB1iLP8 — Usain St. Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) February 27, 2018 × .@UsainBolt and @RobbieWilliams to go head-to-head at Old Trafford this summer... all in the name of charity, of course! Don’t miss #SoccerAid on 10 June: https://t.co/tRIPE78SvO pic.twitter.com/orSpfpLF7E — Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 27, 2018 ×

Now, Usain Bolt to clash against Robbie Williams in football

<p>Everything is going against Arsenal in the ongoing season as they sit at spot number 6 of English Premier League table. Also, they are 27 points behind the table leaders, Manchester City. Recently, they suffered a massive 3-0 defeat against the Reds in the finals of Carabao Cup. Arsenal, led by Arsene Wenger has a voodoo of losing in the finals as no manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Last season was Wenger&rsquo;s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer.</p>

<p>The Gunners, especially coach Wenger is facing criticism from all the corners. Recently, Harsha Bhogle, an Indian cricket commentator, a sports journalist and also an Arsenal fan lashed out at Wenger.</p>

<p>He took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger he especially&nbsp;targeted Wenger and mentioned &quot;new manager&quot; in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut.</p>

<p>Here is what he has tweeted:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager.</p>
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/968030026070454272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager. <a href="https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL">https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL</a></p>
&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/968053299080499200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Harsha quoted the tweets as, &quot;For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more &nbsp;next year when they have to have a new manager.&quot;</p>

<p>In another tweet, he said, &quot;Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager.&quot;</p>

<p>On the contrary, cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin came in Wenger&#39;s defence and said, &quot;Oh no, Arsenal ain&rsquo;t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Oh no ????&zwj;♂️ Arsenal ain&rsquo;t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.☺️ <a href="https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi">https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi</a></p>
&mdash; Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/968031593930530816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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An Arsenal fan Harsha Bhogle took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger, he mentioned "new manager" in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut campaign

Everything is going against Arsenal in the ongoing season as they sit at spot number 6 of English Premier League table. Also, they are 27 points behind the table leaders, Manchester City. Recently, they suffered a massive 3-0 defeat against the Reds in the finals of Carabao Cup. Arsenal, led by Arsene Wenger has a voodoo of losing in the finals as no manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Last season was Wenger’s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer. The Gunners, especially coach Wenger is facing criticism from all the corners. Recently, Harsha Bhogle, an Indian cricket commentator, a sports journalist and also an Arsenal fan lashed out at Wenger. He took to Twitter to troll Arsene Wenger he especially targeted Wenger and mentioned "new manager" in his tweets and in a way supported #WengerOut. Here is what he has tweeted: For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 26, 2018 × Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager. https://t.co/fmy50WC8vL — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 26, 2018 × Harsha quoted the tweets as, "For a football club that is really a no 5/no 6 club and which, at best, could aspire for no 4, Arsenal gets a lot of media attention. Maybe even more next year when they have to have a new manager." In another tweet, he said, "Currently that is what they are and emotion rarely covers reality. Yes, great club, no doubt at all about it and hopefully, will go back to where they should be. When a new manager arrives and everyone can offer a genuine thank you to a great manager." On the contrary, cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin came in Wenger's defence and said, "Oh no, Arsenal ain’t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs. Oh no ????‍♂️ Arsenal ain’t so bad Harsha, all teams go through ups and downs.☺️ https://t.co/DhtaNdKAYi — Ashwin Ravichandran (@ashwinravi99) February 26, 2018 ×

Cricket analyst Harsha Bhogle trolls Arsenal's manager Wenger

<p>French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points.</p>

<p>&quot;I&#39;m very happy with the team&#39;s work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals,&quot; said Griezmann.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HIGHLIGHTS ????<br />
Did you miss our &lsquo;partidazo&rsquo; in Seville? ⚽????&nbsp;Check out the best plays and <a href="https://twitter.com/AntoGriezmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AntoGriezmann</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/diegocosta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@diegocosta</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Koke6?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Koke6</a>&rsquo;s goals ????⚪???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a></p>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967891901864177664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence.</p>

<p>Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area.</p>

<p>However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⏱ 92&#39; | 2-5 | There&#39;s the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaFCAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaFCAtleti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/A%C3%BApaAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#A&uacute;paAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jh3dG3SJR5">pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5</a></p>
&mdash; Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid (@atletienglish) <a href="https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/967875579960856576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico.</p>

<p>Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team&#39;s first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico.</p>

<p>Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence

French striker Antoine Griezmann hit a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid thrashed Sevilla 5-2 on Sunday to cut the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona back to seven points. "I'm very happy with the team's work, but a little less happy that we conceded two goals," said Griezmann. "It's good that we have several forwards who score goals, but the most important thing is the three points." HIGHLIGHTS ???? Did you miss our ‘partidazo’ in Seville? ⚽???? Check out the best plays and @AntoGriezmann, @diegocosta and @Koke6’s goals ????⚪???????? #AúpaAtleti #SevillaFCAtleti — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Former Chelsea star Diego Costa grabbed the opener just before the half-hour mark after a farcical mix-up in the Sevilla defence. Goalkeeper Sergio Rico attempted to play a short ball to Ever Banega standing on the edge of the penalty area. However, his teammate dallied too long and predator Costa nipped in to steal the ball off the toe of the Argentine before confidently burying the opportunity. Sevilla had plenty of chances with Colombian striker Luis Muriel seeing Atletico keeper Jan Oblak deny him with a smart save. ⏱ 92' | 2-5 | There's the final whistle! ➕3⃣Great win from the lads! ????⚪????#SevillaFCAtleti #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/Jh3dG3SJR5 — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 25, 2018 × Three minutes from the break, Griezmann scored his first of the night when he danced between three defenders to score with a fierce right-footed drive past Rico. Griezmann made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, converting his team's first La Liga penalty of the season after Costa was brought down by Rico. Sevilla imploded with Koke making it 4-0 after more suicidal defending before Griezmann completed his hat-trick on 80 minutes, taking his Liga tally to 11 for the season. The home side salvaged a degree of pride when Pablo Sarabia and Nolito tucked away goals in the last five minutes.

Griezmann's hat-trick helps Atletico to cut gap on Barcelona

<p>Manchester City won the first trophy of the Pep Guardiola era with three of their veteran players scoring in an emphatic <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aguero-kompany-silva-inspire-city-to-win-first-trophy-of-guardiola-era-34056">3-0 win against Arenal</a> at Wembley. Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva were all on the scoresheet as City lifted the trophy for the fifth time. &quot;We&#39;re so happy, and a big congratulations to all of Manchester City, and our fans. This trophy is for Manchester City and not for me,&quot; said City coach Guardiola.</p>

<p>Unsurprisingly, the other team, Arsenal was again overshadowed by the voodoo of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aguero-kompany-silva-inspire-city-to-win-first-trophy-of-guardiola-era-34056">losing in the finals</a>. No manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal&#39;s Carabao Cup defeat by Manchester City on Sunday was caused by their own mistakes.&nbsp;Last season was Wenger&rsquo;s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer.</p>

<p>In the post-match presentation, Wenger said, &quot;Well done to (Manchester) City. Congratulations to them, they won the trophy, they won the cup and they will go happy home and we will go very <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aguero-kompany-silva-inspire-city-to-win-first-trophy-of-guardiola-era-34056">disappointed</a>.</p>

<p>&quot;I feel that a little bit everything went against us today and we self-inflicted our punishment because we had an unbelievable chance at nil-nil. We gave them a goal at one-nil,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Wenger also mentioned, &quot;We were a bit unlucky in the second half even if I think we didn&#39;t start well at all in the second half and we were punished but that second goal is offside.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When Wenger complained about added time, the fourth official replied: &#39;Why would you want more time?!&#39; ???? <a href="https://t.co/7n5VL5HF1a">pic.twitter.com/7n5VL5HF1a</a></p>
&mdash; Goal UK (@GoalUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoalUK/status/967909382309560320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>He also made an astonishing remark on added injury time and said, &quot;Why would you want more time?&quot;</p>

<p>He asked the team to focus on the next match, &quot;You have to prioritise your next game first before we speak about the Europa League. We will, of course, take the Europa League very seriously but we have to as well win big games because if you want to go far in the Europa League you have to win big games as well if you look at the opponents already in the Europa League many big teams are in there.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Manchester City defeated Arsenal by 3-0 to win the first trophy of Guardiola era

Manchester City won the first trophy of the Pep Guardiola era with three of their veteran players scoring in an emphatic 3-0 win against Arenal at Wembley. Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva were all on the scoresheet as City lifted the trophy for the fifth time. "We're so happy, and a big congratulations to all of Manchester City, and our fans. This trophy is for Manchester City and not for me," said City coach Guardiola. Unsurprisingly, the other team, Arsenal was again overshadowed by the voodoo of losing in the finals. No manager has lost more League Cup finals than Arsene Wenger (2007, 2011 and 2018). This was the fourth time when the Gunners lost in a final clash. Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal's Carabao Cup defeat by Manchester City on Sunday was caused by their own mistakes. Last season was Wenger’s worst at the club. This season is shaping up to be even poorer. In the post-match presentation, Wenger said, "Well done to (Manchester) City. Congratulations to them, they won the trophy, they won the cup and they will go happy home and we will go very disappointed. "I feel that a little bit everything went against us today and we self-inflicted our punishment because we had an unbelievable chance at nil-nil. We gave them a goal at one-nil," he added. Wenger also mentioned, "We were a bit unlucky in the second half even if I think we didn't start well at all in the second half and we were punished but that second goal is offside." When Wenger complained about added time, the fourth official replied: 'Why would you want more time?!' ???? pic.twitter.com/7n5VL5HF1a — Goal UK (@GoalUK) February 25, 2018 × He also made an astonishing remark on added injury time and said, "Why would you want more time?" He asked the team to focus on the next match, "You have to prioritise your next game first before we speak about the Europa League. We will, of course, take the Europa League very seriously but we have to as well win big games because if you want to go far in the Europa League you have to win big games as well if you look at the opponents already in the Europa League many big teams are in there."

'Defeat caused by own mistakes,' says Arsene Wenger after losing to City

<p>Manchester City rolled back the years on Sunday to win the first trophy of the Pep Guardiola era with three of their veteran players scoring in an emphatic 3-0 win against Arsenal at Wembley.</p>

<p>Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva were all on the scoresheet as City lifted the trophy for the fifth time -- only Liverpool have won it more.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s important,&quot; said Guardiola. &quot;We&#39;re so happy, and a big congratulations to all of Manchester City, and our fans. This trophy is for Manchester City and not for me.</p>

<p>&quot;The first half we were not good, there were a lot of mistakes. In the second half we played with a lot more courage and personality -- we were outstanding.&quot;</p>

<p>City&#39;s first goal, in the first half, came in unlikely circumstances for a side lauded for their slick passing style.</p>

<p>A long punt upfield from goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was controlled by Sergio Aguero, who coolly lifted the ball over a helpless David Ospina in the Arsenal goal.</p>

<p>Captain Kompany doubled the lead in the second half with just over half an hour to go and Silva put the game out of the reach of Arsene Wenger&#39;s team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The runaway Premier League leaders will be hoping to use the victory as a springboard to greater glory as the season approaches its final stretch but defeat for Wenger means he has never lifted the League Cup.</p>

<p><strong>Control</strong></p>

<p>On a bitterly cold, clear day in London, City, in their light blue kit, took control early, playing measured football and enjoying the lion&#39;s share of possession against a side who have made Wembley a second home in recent years.</p>

<p>But Arsenal went closest to taking the lead within the first 10 minutes, with new signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang seeing his scuffed shot saved by a sprawling Bravo.</p>

<p>Seconds later Aguero found the side netting after an incisive break from City, who looked short of their fluent best.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But it was Aguero who broke the deadlock, controlling the ball as Arsenal&#39;s defence failed to deal with the danger.</p>

<p>The Argentine striker has scored in each of his past five games in all competitions against Arsenal and this was his 199th goal in City colours.</p>

<p>It was an unusual goal for Guardiola&#39;s team, who have been lauded for their silky passing game this season, which has already seen them hailed as one of the finest sides in Premier League history.</p>

<p>City made a bright start to the second half and captain Kompany was in the right place to steer home Ilkay Gundogan&#39;s shot from the edge of the box after a Kevin De Bruyne corner in the 58th minute.</p>

<p>It was no more than City deserved against a lacklustre Arsenal and the Belgian celebrated wildly in front of his own fans.</p>

<p>Just seven minutes later Arsenal was left with a mountain to climb when Silva smashed the ball past Ospina into the far corner of the net to make it 3-0.</p>

<p>Former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss Guardiola kept faith with reserve goalkeeper Bravo for the Wembley showpiece ahead of first-choice Ederson. Bravo has played in every round of the competition so far.</p>

<p>Wenger also played his number two between the sticks, fielding Ospina ahead of Petr Cech.</p>

<p>A disappointed Wenger bemoaned his side&#39;s failure to take the lead through Aubameyang.</p>

<p>&quot;I felt the game, we had the first good chance, a very easy one that we missed,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>&quot;After that we made a big mistake for their first goal. But we controlled them pretty well in the first half, but they came out in the second half, and we were unlucky because the second goal was offside. But congratulations to Man City, they deserve the win.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Manchester City defeats Arsenal to register their first victory of the season

Manchester City rolled back the years on Sunday to win the first trophy of the Pep Guardiola era with three of their veteran players scoring in an emphatic 3-0 win against Arsenal at Wembley. Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and David Silva were all on the scoresheet as City lifted the trophy for the fifth time -- only Liverpool have won it more. "It's important," said Guardiola. "We're so happy, and a big congratulations to all of Manchester City, and our fans. This trophy is for Manchester City and not for me. "The first half we were not good, there were a lot of mistakes. In the second half we played with a lot more courage and personality -- we were outstanding." City's first goal, in the first half, came in unlikely circumstances for a side lauded for their slick passing style. A long punt upfield from goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was controlled by Sergio Aguero, who coolly lifted the ball over a helpless David Ospina in the Arsenal goal. Captain Kompany doubled the lead in the second half with just over half an hour to go and Silva put the game out of the reach of Arsene Wenger's team. The runaway Premier League leaders will be hoping to use the victory as a springboard to greater glory as the season approaches its final stretch but defeat for Wenger means he has never lifted the League Cup. Control On a bitterly cold, clear day in London, City, in their light blue kit, took control early, playing measured football and enjoying the lion's share of possession against a side who have made Wembley a second home in recent years. But Arsenal went closest to taking the lead within the first 10 minutes, with new signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang seeing his scuffed shot saved by a sprawling Bravo. Seconds later Aguero found the side netting after an incisive break from City, who looked short of their fluent best. But it was Aguero who broke the deadlock, controlling the ball as Arsenal's defence failed to deal with the danger. The Argentine striker has scored in each of his past five games in all competitions against Arsenal and this was his 199th goal in City colours. It was an unusual goal for Guardiola's team, who have been lauded for their silky passing game this season, which has already seen them hailed as one of the finest sides in Premier League history. City made a bright start to the second half and captain Kompany was in the right place to steer home Ilkay Gundogan's shot from the edge of the box after a Kevin De Bruyne corner in the 58th minute. It was no more than City deserved against a lacklustre Arsenal and the Belgian celebrated wildly in front of his own fans. Just seven minutes later Arsenal was left with a mountain to climb when Silva smashed the ball past Ospina into the far corner of the net to make it 3-0. Former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss Guardiola kept faith with reserve goalkeeper Bravo for the Wembley showpiece ahead of first-choice Ederson. Bravo has played in every round of the competition so far. Wenger also played his number two between the sticks, fielding Ospina ahead of Petr Cech. A disappointed Wenger bemoaned his side's failure to take the lead through Aubameyang. "I felt the game, we had the first good chance, a very easy one that we missed," he said. "After that we made a big mistake for their first goal. But we controlled them pretty well in the first half, but they came out in the second half, and we were unlucky because the second goal was offside. But congratulations to Man City, they deserve the win."

Aguero, Kompany, Silva inspire City to win first trophy of Guardiola era

<p>The first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">FC Barcelona and Chelsea</a> ended with a 1-1 score.</p>

<p>The third time lucky Willian scored a stunner in the second half to give <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Chelsea 1-0 lead</a>.</p>

<p>In the first half, Willian proved two-time unlucky as he hit side post twice from both the wings, if not, then Chelsea would have leading the game by 3-0 and Willian scoring a hat-trick.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">GOAL!!! 1-0!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHEBAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHEBAR</a> <a href="https://t.co/UjIUmhdgrI">pic.twitter.com/UjIUmhdgrI</a></p>
&mdash; Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/966056319827480577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Iniesta&#39;s beautiful assist to Messi equalises the score in the 75the minute to&nbsp;relax&nbsp;the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">Barcelona fans</a> and followers.</p>

<p>After the match, Iniesta said, &quot;Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe and in general we played well. The second leg will also be a tough contest.&quot;</p>

<p>It was not only the mesmerising moment of a reverse pass and accurate hit into the bottom corner of the net also a sloppy piece of defence tackle by Andreas Christensen was the reason.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">&quot;Leo Messi has n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ scored against Chelsea.&quot;<br />
&hellip;<br />
✅ Done. <a href="https://t.co/3NlCQIvLha">pic.twitter.com/3NlCQIvLha</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/966060110073114625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lionel Messi had a jinx of not scoring against English clubs which he broke today by scoring an equalizer and also his first goal against Chelsea in the last nine matches.</p>

<p>However, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-why-philippe-coutinho-is-not-playing-against-chelsea-33539">Barca</a> remains unbeaten in 31 La Liga and Champions League games under Ernesto Valverde thanks to a late rally.</p>

<p>The first warning&nbsp;was given by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Eden Hazard</a> when he&nbsp;fired just over from 20 yards five minutes in.</p>

<p>The match&nbsp;revolved around Chelsea striker Willian, either he was missing to score or playing exponentially amazing with bleeding nose.</p>

<p>So, a&nbsp;big shout out to Willian&#39;s performance, brilliance and fighting spirit and his ability to score from outside the box off either foot.</p>

<p>The English defending champions must now score when they travel to the Camp Nou on March 14 to have any chance of making the last eight.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">Click here</a> to know what was expected of this clash.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi struck for the first time in nine games against Chelsea to give Barcelona a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Champions League

The first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 between FC Barcelona and Chelsea ended with a 1-1 score. The third time lucky Willian scored a stunner in the second half to give Chelsea 1-0 lead. In the first half, Willian proved two-time unlucky as he hit side post twice from both the wings, if not, then Chelsea would have leading the game by 3-0 and Willian scoring a hat-trick. GOAL!!! 1-0!!! #CHEBAR pic.twitter.com/UjIUmhdgrI — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 20, 2018 × Iniesta's beautiful assist to Messi equalises the score in the 75the minute to relax the Barcelona fans and followers. After the match, Iniesta said, "Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe and in general we played well. The second leg will also be a tough contest." It was not only the mesmerising moment of a reverse pass and accurate hit into the bottom corner of the net also a sloppy piece of defence tackle by Andreas Christensen was the reason. "Leo Messi has n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ scored against Chelsea." … ✅ Done. pic.twitter.com/3NlCQIvLha — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 20, 2018 × Lionel Messi had a jinx of not scoring against English clubs which he broke today by scoring an equalizer and also his first goal against Chelsea in the last nine matches. However, Barca remains unbeaten in 31 La Liga and Champions League games under Ernesto Valverde thanks to a late rally. The first warning was given by Eden Hazard when he fired just over from 20 yards five minutes in. The match revolved around Chelsea striker Willian, either he was missing to score or playing exponentially amazing with bleeding nose. So, a big shout out to Willian's performance, brilliance and fighting spirit and his ability to score from outside the box off either foot. The English defending champions must now score when they travel to the Camp Nou on March 14 to have any chance of making the last eight. Click here to know what was expected of this clash.

Champions League: Lionel Messi breaks jinx after scoring against Chelsea

<p>The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London.</p>

<p>It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team.</p>

<p>FC Barcelona and support staff have arrived in London and the training has started.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez meet former English footballer and current sports broadcaster, Gary Lineker ahead of Chelsea clash.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewProfilePic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewProfilePic</a> for <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GaryLineker</a>! ???? <a href="https://t.co/89N6tpQ46B">pic.twitter.com/89N6tpQ46B</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/965711583719538689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Gary Lineker holds England&#39;s record for goals in FIFA World Cup finals with 10 goals.</p>

<p>Lineker began his football career at Leicester City in 1978. He then moved to League Champions Everton.</p>

<p>His first team honours came at Barcelona, where he won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners&#39; Cup in 1989.</p>

<p>He returned to England in 1989, joining Tottenham Hotspur, and over three seasons he scored 67 goals in 105 games and won the FA Cup.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


At Barcelona, Gary Lineker won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1989

The first leg of Chelsea vs Barcelona is scheduled for February 21 at Stamford Bridge, London. It is supposed to be one of the major clashes of Champions Leauge and fans and supporters of both sides have high expectations for their favourite team. FC Barcelona and support staff have arrived in London and the training has started. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez meet former English footballer and current sports broadcaster, Gary Lineker ahead of Chelsea clash. #NewProfilePic for @GaryLineker! ???? pic.twitter.com/89N6tpQ46B — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 19, 2018 × Gary Lineker holds England's record for goals in FIFA World Cup finals with 10 goals. Lineker began his football career at Leicester City in 1978. He then moved to League Champions Everton. His first team honours came at Barcelona, where he won the Copa del Rey in 1988 and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1989. He returned to England in 1989, joining Tottenham Hotspur, and over three seasons he scored 67 goals in 105 games and won the FA Cup.

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez meet former Barca star Gary Lineker

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-match-preview-of-barcelona-vs-chelsea-33534">Barcelona and Chelsea</a> is set ready to face each other in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday night at Stamford Bridge.</p>

<p>Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now and will enter the game with a high.</p>

<p>They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and stands at top of the La Liga table.</p>

<p>Although, both the teams are under pressure but Chelsea is a bit more hustled as the ongoing season is not that good as they had an outstanding run last season.</p>

<p>But here is some good news for Chelsea fans as one of the key&nbsp;players of Barca will not play today.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⚽️ Starting XI<br />
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChelseaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChelseaBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/XaBBne5N3s">pic.twitter.com/XaBBne5N3s</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/966017351312429066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Who&nbsp;is missing in the squad list?</p>

<p>Yes, it&#39;s Philippe Coutinho. The reason is Phil being&nbsp;ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer.</p>

<div style="background:#eee;border:1px solid #ccc;padding:5px 10px;"><strong>What does the rule say?</strong><br />
As a rule, a player may not play in a UEFA club competition (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, excluding UEFA Super Cup) for more than one club in the course of the same season.</div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He played an important role in inspiring the Reds to seal a place in the Champions League last 16.</p>

<p>Coutinho will have to watch on from the sidelines as UEFA rules stipulate that a player cannot represent more than one club in the same season in the competition.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The reason is Coutinho being ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer

Barcelona and Chelsea is set ready to face each other in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday night at Stamford Bridge. Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons till now and will enter the game with a high. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and stands at top of the La Liga table. Although, both the teams are under pressure but Chelsea is a bit more hustled as the ongoing season is not that good as they had an outstanding run last season. But here is some good news for Chelsea fans as one of the key players of Barca will not play today. ⚽️ Starting XI ???????? #ChelseaBarça pic.twitter.com/XaBBne5N3s — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 20, 2018 × Who is missing in the squad list? Yes, it's Philippe Coutinho. The reason is Phil being ineligible for the match having previously played for Liverpool in the group stage of the competition before the transfer. What does the rule say? As a rule, a player may not play in a UEFA club competition (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, excluding UEFA Super Cup) for more than one club in the course of the same season. He played an important role in inspiring the Reds to seal a place in the Champions League last 16. Coutinho will have to watch on from the sidelines as UEFA rules stipulate that a player cannot represent more than one club in the same season in the competition.

Here is why Philippe Coutinho is not playing against Chelsea

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/prankster-hands-conte-signed-mourinho-shirt-33007">Antonio Conte</a>,&nbsp;Chelsea head coach&nbsp;spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg tie against Barcelona.</p>

<p>Chelsea is standing at number four of English Premier League behind Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/good-to-be-compared-with-messi-eden-hazard-33431">Eden Hazard</a> is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-stroll-past-hull-into-fa-cup-quarter-finals-33137">4-0 win over Hull City</a> in the English FA Cup fifth round.</p>

<p>In the interview he was asked about team&#39;s preparation, &quot;I think we start this game as underdog for sure because Barcelona on the paper is favourite to go to the next round.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;But, for this reason, I think we should be excited to have this challenge. These two games will be very important to understand what is our level in this competition, he added.&quot;</p>

<p>When asked about Barcelona&nbsp;he said, &quot;Barcelona is having a fantastic season. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup, said Chelsea&#39;s head coach.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Antonio Conte knows Chelsea have to &quot;suffer&quot; if they want to get past Barcelona <a href="https://t.co/4ut0yqdemo">pic.twitter.com/4ut0yqdemo</a></p>
&mdash; Goal (@goal) <a href="https://twitter.com/goal/status/965719299825352704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;We know Barcelona&#39;s characteristic. They like to have ball possession. They like to dominate the game,&quot; he talked about Barcelona&#39;s playing tactics.</p>

<p>&quot;In every game, they are able to create many chances to score and for this reason, we must be prepared to suffer,&quot; former Italian midfielder&nbsp;added.</p>

<p>The Italian coach said in his improper English speaking skills, &quot;To suffer without the ball. To be compact. Not to lose our heads during the game and then to try with the ball what we know. What we try during training.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;For sure we have to pay great attention (to him) but not only Messi. (Luis) Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous, he added.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


'We have to pay great attention but not only Messi. Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous,' says Chelsea head coach on the eve of Barce vs Chelsea

Antonio Conte, Chelsea head coach spoke to media on the eve of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg tie against Barcelona. Chelsea is standing at number four of English Premier League behind Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool. Eden Hazard is expected to be recalled to the team after the Belgian international was rested for the 4-0 win over Hull City in the English FA Cup fifth round. In the interview he was asked about team's preparation, "I think we start this game as underdog for sure because Barcelona on the paper is favourite to go to the next round." "But, for this reason, I think we should be excited to have this challenge. These two games will be very important to understand what is our level in this competition, he added." When asked about Barcelona he said, "Barcelona is having a fantastic season. They are top of the league and are in the final in the Cup in Spain and they have the potential to win this Cup, said Chelsea's head coach." Antonio Conte knows Chelsea have to "suffer" if they want to get past Barcelona pic.twitter.com/4ut0yqdemo — Goal (@goal) February 19, 2018 × "We know Barcelona's characteristic. They like to have ball possession. They like to dominate the game," he talked about Barcelona's playing tactics. "In every game, they are able to create many chances to score and for this reason, we must be prepared to suffer," former Italian midfielder added. The Italian coach said in his improper English speaking skills, "To suffer without the ball. To be compact. Not to lose our heads during the game and then to try with the ball what we know. What we try during training." "For sure we have to pay great attention (to him) but not only Messi. (Luis) Suarez is a fantastic striker. The whole team is very dangerous, he added."

'We must be prepared to suffer,' says Antonio Conte

<p>Wigan Athletic defeated Manchester City 1-0 to end City&#39;s dream run.</p>

<p>Pep Guardiola&#39;s quest to win an unprecedented quadruple with Manchester City came to a stunning and controversial end when they fell to a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-third-tier-wigan-athletic-ends-man-citys-fairytale-run-33412">1-0 defeat at third-tier Wigan</a> in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Monday.</p>

<p>Will Grigg netted the ball in the 79th minute to trigger chants of &#39;Will Grigg&#39;s on fire&#39; around the DW Stadium.</p>

<p>The full of drama when Premier League leaders, Manchester City faced a tragic defeat by third-tier Wigan Athletic.</p>

<p>A lot of things happened during the match, as&nbsp;City played the entire second half with 10 men after Fabian Delph was ousted was sent off after showing a red card, Sergio Aguero was confronted by Wigan supporters as they invaded the ground after the match was ended.</p>

<p>Apart from that, frustrated Guardiola involved in a fight with Wigan manager&nbsp;Paul Cook in the tunnel after the match, both of them had a major verbal confrontation.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pep Guardiola and Paul Cook arguing in the tunnel and Pep charging at the referee before the camera cuts away, Aguero punching a Wigan fan and the ManCity fans attacking the police.<br />
<br />
Manchester City, money cannot buy you class.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/8F3HmpmDd6">pic.twitter.com/8F3HmpmDd6</a></p>
&mdash; Utd (@SimplyUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/SimplyUtd/status/965726435909488640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">19 February 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Frustrated Guardiola involved in a fight with Wigan manager Paul Cook in the tunnel after the match, both of them had a major verbal confrontation

Wigan Athletic defeated Manchester City 1-0 to end City's dream run. Pep Guardiola's quest to win an unprecedented quadruple with Manchester City came to a stunning and controversial end when they fell to a 1-0 defeat at third-tier Wigan in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Monday. Will Grigg netted the ball in the 79th minute to trigger chants of 'Will Grigg's on fire' around the DW Stadium. The full of drama when Premier League leaders, Manchester City faced a tragic defeat by third-tier Wigan Athletic. A lot of things happened during the match, as City played the entire second half with 10 men after Fabian Delph was ousted was sent off after showing a red card, Sergio Aguero was confronted by Wigan supporters as they invaded the ground after the match was ended. Apart from that, frustrated Guardiola involved in a fight with Wigan manager Paul Cook in the tunnel after the match, both of them had a major verbal confrontation. Watch the video here: Pep Guardiola and Paul Cook arguing in the tunnel and Pep charging at the referee before the camera cuts away, Aguero punching a Wigan fan and the ManCity fans attacking the police. Manchester City, money cannot buy you class. pic.twitter.com/8F3HmpmDd6 — Utd (@SimplyUtd) 19 February 2018 ×

Watch: Pep Guardiola fights with Wigan manager Paul Cook

<p>Brazilian striker and former World Cup winner, Ronaldinho took to his Twitter handle earlier today to share a &quot;big announcement&quot;.</p>

<p>The football sensation shared his post-retirement plans in a video that was tweeted from his official Twitter account.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I have a big announcement to share with you today,&quot; noted the 37-year-old star.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">Eu tenho um grande an&uacute;ncio para compartilhar com voc&ecirc;s hoje. <a href="https://t.co/dBJSByC5sL">pic.twitter.com/dBJSByC5sL</a></p>
&mdash; Ronaldinho Ga&uacute;cho (@10Ronaldinho) <a href="https://twitter.com/10Ronaldinho/status/965361091428708352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ronaldinho thanked his fans for their love and support. He mentioned that after his retirement he will be involved with the football school and in the music industry.</p>

<p>&quot;This year I will hold retirement matches at various places. I will also&nbsp;partner in a big project,&quot; he noted.</p>

<p>The details of his &quot;big project&quot; will be announced soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Brazilian footballer and ambassador of Spanish club Barcelona, Ronaldinho played as an attacking midfielder for most of his career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He mostly played for European clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Milan apart from playing for the national football team of Brazil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ronaldinho holds two &#39;FIFA World Player of the Year&#39; awards.&nbsp;</p>


The details of his 'big project' will be announced soon

Brazilian striker and former World Cup winner, Ronaldinho took to his Twitter handle earlier today to share a "big announcement". The football sensation shared his post-retirement plans in a video that was tweeted from his official Twitter account. "I have a big announcement to share with you today," noted the 37-year-old star. Eu tenho um grande anúncio para compartilhar com vocês hoje. pic.twitter.com/dBJSByC5sL — Ronaldinho Gaúcho (@10Ronaldinho) February 18, 2018 × Ronaldinho thanked his fans for their love and support. He mentioned that after his retirement he will be involved with the football school and in the music industry. "This year I will hold retirement matches at various places. I will also partner in a big project," he noted. The details of his "big project" will be announced soon. Former Brazilian footballer and ambassador of Spanish club Barcelona, Ronaldinho played as an attacking midfielder for most of his career. He mostly played for European clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Milan apart from playing for the national football team of Brazil. Ronaldinho holds two 'FIFA World Player of the Year' awards.

Football sensation Ronaldinho shares post-retirement plans on Twitter

<p>La Liga leaders Barcelona failed to break down Getafe in a dull 0-0 league draw on Sunday (February 11), leaving the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table.</p>

<p>Philippe Coutinho came close with a long-range effort which was tipped wide by Vicente Guaita, with the Getafe goalkeeper also blocking a Yerry Mina header and a late effort from Luis Suarez.</p>

<p>Barca talisman Lionel Messi was below his best and off-target with various set-pieces, while Ousmane Dembele returned from injury but could not help from the Nou Camp bench.</p>

<p>After second-placed Atletico Madrid won at Malaga on Saturday, Barca&#39;s draw means Diego Simeone&#39;s side have eaten into their lead by two points.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">???? Le Bar&ccedil;a, leader invaincu de <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLiga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaLiga</a> apr&egrave;s 23 journ&eacute;es, poss&egrave;de d&eacute;sormais 7 points d&#39;avance sur l&#39;Atl&eacute;tico de Madrid, 16 sur Valence et 17 sur le Real Madrid <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/3TjxGc31MI">pic.twitter.com/3TjxGc31MI</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) <a href="https://twitter.com/fcbarcelona_fra/status/962806065317531648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">11 February 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was forced to play fullback Lucas Digne in the center of defense, alongside January signing Mina, making his full debut, due to injuries to Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen, and Samuel Umtiti&#39;s suspension.</p>

<p>However, the makeshift pairing was relatively solid, with Getafe creating few chances, the best of which saw Mina block Angel Rodriguez&#39;s shot after the forward broke through.</p>

<p>Barcelona failed to record a shot on target in the first half, something which has not happened since 2012, as they showed signs of tiredness after Thursday&#39;s King&#39;s Cup semi-final win at Valencia.</p>

<p>Suarez volleyed in just before halftime but was correctly ruled offside, with the Uruguayan ranting furiously at the assistant referee in frustration.</p>

<p>Towering defender Mina came close with two headers, one stopped by Guaita and another which flew inches past the post, as Barcelona failed to break down the visitors.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">???? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aGetafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aGetafe</a>, en images. Plus de photos ???? <a href="https://t.co/BWonYADbxg">https://t.co/BWonYADbxg</a> ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/LNPwkTkEyq">pic.twitter.com/LNPwkTkEyq</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) <a href="https://twitter.com/fcbarcelona_fra/status/962778015737499649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">11 February 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


With this draw, the Catalans are seven points clear at the top of the table

La Liga leaders Barcelona failed to break down Getafe in a dull 0-0 league draw on Sunday (February 11), leaving the Catalans seven points clear at the top of the table. Philippe Coutinho came close with a long-range effort which was tipped wide by Vicente Guaita, with the Getafe goalkeeper also blocking a Yerry Mina header and a late effort from Luis Suarez. Barca talisman Lionel Messi was below his best and off-target with various set-pieces, while Ousmane Dembele returned from injury but could not help from the Nou Camp bench. After second-placed Atletico Madrid won at Malaga on Saturday, Barca's draw means Diego Simeone's side have eaten into their lead by two points. ???? Le Barça, leader invaincu de @LaLiga après 23 journées, possède désormais 7 points d'avance sur l'Atlético de Madrid, 16 sur Valence et 17 sur le Real Madrid #ForçaBarça ???????? pic.twitter.com/3TjxGc31MI — FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) 11 February 2018 × Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde was forced to play fullback Lucas Digne in the center of defense, alongside January signing Mina, making his full debut, due to injuries to Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen, and Samuel Umtiti's suspension. However, the makeshift pairing was relatively solid, with Getafe creating few chances, the best of which saw Mina block Angel Rodriguez's shot after the forward broke through. Barcelona failed to record a shot on target in the first half, something which has not happened since 2012, as they showed signs of tiredness after Thursday's King's Cup semi-final win at Valencia. Suarez volleyed in just before halftime but was correctly ruled offside, with the Uruguayan ranting furiously at the assistant referee in frustration. Towering defender Mina came close with two headers, one stopped by Guaita and another which flew inches past the post, as Barcelona failed to break down the visitors. ???? #BarçaGetafe, en images. Plus de photos ???? https://t.co/BWonYADbxg ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/LNPwkTkEyq — FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) 11 February 2018 ×

Goalless draw with Getafe FC frustrates Catalans

<p>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.</p>

<p>Atletico Madrid saw off Malaga 1-0 in a tight game to provisionally close the gap on leaders Barcelona to six points.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>&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.</p>

<p>&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.</p>

<p>&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.</p>

<p>&quot;The objective was to gain confidence and that is what we did today.&quot;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Malaga, rooted to the bottom of the table, have picked up two points in their last eight games.</p>

<p>&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.</p>

<p>&quot;It was an intense game, we were always putting the work in. We take with us a very important victory.</p>

<p>&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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>Pep Guardiola hailed Sergio Aguero as an &quot;authentic legend&quot; of Manchester City after his four second-half goals continued the club&#39;s emphatic march towards the Premier League title with a 5-1 thrashing of Leicester.</p>

<p>Raheem Sterling had given City an early lead on Saturday but Leicester went into the break on level terms thanks to Jamie Vardy&#39;s equaliser.</p>

<p>However, Aguero took centre stage with a finishing masterclass to take his tally in City&#39;s last seven home games to 14 goals as Guardiola&#39;s side moved 16 points clear.</p>

<p>&quot;An authentic legend of this club,&quot; said Guardiola of his prolific Argentine striker.</p>

<p>&quot;In the second half he scored four goals. Sergio is like this, he has a special talent in the box. He&#39;s clinical... especially the third one and fourth one are amazing.&quot;</p>

<p>Aguero now has 28 goals in all competitions this season -&ndash; eight more than Sterling.</p>

<p>&ldquo;So we try to create a lot of chances to score the goals he does, and he always does. Congratulations to him because it&#39;s not easy to score four goals,&quot; added Guardiola.</p>

<p>&ldquo;When one player&nbsp;is able to score four goals, he deserves all the credit and the nice words. He fights, he plays really good and he scored. We needed it.&ldquo;</p>

<p>Guardiola believes the win was &ldquo;one of the best&rdquo; performances his players have produced since he took over at City but urged them not to let their intensity drop.</p>

<p>&ldquo;My advice for the players is not to think how many games are left, just to look to the next one,&rdquo; he said.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Every time we dropped points this season, the next game we won, which is so, so important. Keeping that consistency is so important for us. If we are able to win the title it will be something special for us.&quot;</p>

<p>Leicester manager Claude Puel brought Riyad Mahrez off the bench in the second half as the winger made his first appearance since a self-imposed exile following the collapse of a deadline day transfer to City.</p>

<p>And Puel claimed both he and the Algeria international will not focus their efforts on the rest of the season without any issues.</p>

<p>&ldquo;I said before my last press conference it was important for him to come back quick,&rdquo; Puel said.</p>

<p>&ldquo;He maintained a good level and it was important he was back in the squad. We have lost time and now it is important to look forward. The transfer window is finished.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Since the beginning of the transfer window we took a decision with the club, to protect the squad. Riyad came back, and he is an important player.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Now it is about time to move on together and of course we are stronger with him. It is important to move together with good solidarity and understanding together.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


"An authentic legend of this club," said the City coach Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola hailed Sergio Aguero as an "authentic legend" of Manchester City after his four second-half goals continued the club's emphatic march towards the Premier League title with a 5-1 thrashing of Leicester. Raheem Sterling had given City an early lead on Saturday but Leicester went into the break on level terms thanks to Jamie Vardy's equaliser. However, Aguero took centre stage with a finishing masterclass to take his tally in City's last seven home games to 14 goals as Guardiola's side moved 16 points clear. "An authentic legend of this club," said Guardiola of his prolific Argentine striker. "In the second half he scored four goals. Sergio is like this, he has a special talent in the box. He's clinical... especially the third one and fourth one are amazing." Aguero now has 28 goals in all competitions this season -– eight more than Sterling. “So we try to create a lot of chances to score the goals he does, and he always does. Congratulations to him because it's not easy to score four goals," added Guardiola. “When one player is able to score four goals, he deserves all the credit and the nice words. He fights, he plays really good and he scored. We needed it.“ Guardiola believes the win was “one of the best” performances his players have produced since he took over at City but urged them not to let their intensity drop. “My advice for the players is not to think how many games are left, just to look to the next one,” he said. “Every time we dropped points this season, the next game we won, which is so, so important. Keeping that consistency is so important for us. If we are able to win the title it will be something special for us." Leicester manager Claude Puel brought Riyad Mahrez off the bench in the second half as the winger made his first appearance since a self-imposed exile following the collapse of a deadline day transfer to City. And Puel claimed both he and the Algeria international will not focus their efforts on the rest of the season without any issues. “I said before my last press conference it was important for him to come back quick,” Puel said. “He maintained a good level and it was important he was back in the squad. We have lost time and now it is important to look forward. The transfer window is finished. “Since the beginning of the transfer window we took a decision with the club, to protect the squad. Riyad came back, and he is an important player. “Now it is about time to move on together and of course we are stronger with him. It is important to move together with good solidarity and understanding together."

EPL: Sergio Aguero's four-goal show inspires Man City to stylish win

<p>Gylfi Sigurdsson, Oumar Niasse and Tom Davies were on target as Everton eased past Crystal Palace 3-1 on Saturday to climb to ninth in the Premier League table.</p>

<p>After a committed but low-quality first half ended goalless, Everton struck twice within six minutes after the break as Sigurdsson beat Wayne Hennessey with a deflected shot before Niasse&#39;s header doubled the advantage.</p>

<p>Midfielder Davies all but sealed the victory with a low finish in the 75th minute against a Palace side who showed little threat until Luka Milivojevic converted a late penalty after Ashley Williams handled the ball.</p>

<p>Everton leapfrogged Bournemouth to climb to ninth on 34 points from 27 games and are within two points of out-of-form Burnley in seventh. Palace is 14th with 27 points.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FT: ???? 3-1 ????<br />
<br />
Blues climb to ninth and move within two points of seventh after goals from Sigurdsson, Niasse and Davies at Goodison Park. Well played, lads! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EFCmatchday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EFCmatchday</a> <a href="https://t.co/Rc3U7TO3AX">pic.twitter.com/Rc3U7TO3AX</a></p>
&mdash; Everton (@Everton) <a href="https://twitter.com/Everton/status/962368842830958592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;We have to look at our home record and that is where the mainstay of our season lies,&quot; Everton manager Sam Allardyce told the BBC.</p>

<p>&quot;In the eight home games I have been here, we have picked up 17 points and conceded just four goals. We are getting it right, entertaining the fans and getting the result.&quot;</p>

<p>Everton&#39;s quest to climb the table has been hindered by their form away from Goodison Park with only the bottom three of Stoke City, West Bromwich Abion and Huddersfield Town possessing a worse record.</p>

<p>&quot;The unfortunate away form is causing us the problems,&quot; Allardyce added. &quot;Goodison Park has always been a strong place to play, the supporters get behind you.</p>

<p>&quot;Away from home, it has been a longstanding problem. It is something we have to try and turn around. Now we can relax and enjoy the result. We got 3-0 up and the pressure was off. Even when they scored their penalty, we were not under too much pressure.</p>

<p>&quot;The Everton fans will wake up and be happy to see where we are, only two points off seventh.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Everton struck twice within six minutes after the break as Sigurdsson beat Wayne Hennessey with a deflected shot before Niasse's header doubled the advantage

Gylfi Sigurdsson, Oumar Niasse and Tom Davies were on target as Everton eased past Crystal Palace 3-1 on Saturday to climb to ninth in the Premier League table. After a committed but low-quality first half ended goalless, Everton struck twice within six minutes after the break as Sigurdsson beat Wayne Hennessey with a deflected shot before Niasse's header doubled the advantage. Midfielder Davies all but sealed the victory with a low finish in the 75th minute against a Palace side who showed little threat until Luka Milivojevic converted a late penalty after Ashley Williams handled the ball. Everton leapfrogged Bournemouth to climb to ninth on 34 points from 27 games and are within two points of out-of-form Burnley in seventh. Palace is 14th with 27 points. FT: ???? 3-1 ???? Blues climb to ninth and move within two points of seventh after goals from Sigurdsson, Niasse and Davies at Goodison Park. Well played, lads! #EFCmatchday pic.twitter.com/Rc3U7TO3AX — Everton (@Everton) February 10, 2018 × "We have to look at our home record and that is where the mainstay of our season lies," Everton manager Sam Allardyce told the BBC. "In the eight home games I have been here, we have picked up 17 points and conceded just four goals. We are getting it right, entertaining the fans and getting the result." Everton's quest to climb the table has been hindered by their form away from Goodison Park with only the bottom three of Stoke City, West Bromwich Abion and Huddersfield Town possessing a worse record. "The unfortunate away form is causing us the problems," Allardyce added. "Goodison Park has always been a strong place to play, the supporters get behind you. "Away from home, it has been a longstanding problem. It is something we have to try and turn around. Now we can relax and enjoy the result. We got 3-0 up and the pressure was off. Even when they scored their penalty, we were not under too much pressure. "The Everton fans will wake up and be happy to see where we are, only two points off seventh."

EPL: Everton up to ninth with easy win over Palace

<p>Harry Kane scored his 23rd Premier League goal of the season as Tottenham Hotspur beat Arsenal 1-0 at Wembley on Saturday to dent their north London rivals&#39; top-four aspirations.</p>

<p>After a sluggish first half, Kane jumped highest to head home his seventh derby goal in seven games and Spurs would have won by a greater margin but for an inspired performance from goalkeeper Petr Cech.</p>

<p>Spurs climb two places to third and Arsenal now sit six points adrift of Liverpool in fourth - though Juergen Klopp&#39;s side has one game in hand.</p>

<p>&quot;I am so happy to win,&quot; Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. &quot;We have had three massive games against (Manchester) United, Liverpool and Arsenal and seven points is good.</p>

<p>&quot;Harry Kane is not old-fashioned, he is the present and the future. We are so proud that he is in our side.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Love a north London derby. ????⚽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/THFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#THFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Premierleague?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Premierleague</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NLD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NLD</a> <a href="https://t.co/LNI8KDV2IH">pic.twitter.com/LNI8KDV2IH</a></p>
&mdash; Harry Kane (@HKane) <a href="https://twitter.com/HKane/status/962343859559845888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Spurs registered 18 shots to Arsenal&#39;s six with Kane, a constant thorn the visitor&#39;s side, wasting a number of opportunities to seal a more comfortable scoreline.</p>

<p>Arsenal, however, did have late chances to equalise with substitute Alexandre Lacazette - who replaced the ineffective Henrikh Mkhitaryan - twice going close in the closing minutes.</p>

<p>&quot;Kane made the difference, that&#39;s what he&#39;s about,&quot; Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. &quot;I have seen the replay, it is no foul, just good centre-forward play. We can only look at ourselves.</p>

<p>&quot;It will be more difficult to finish in the top four but we have to fight for it.&quot;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Spurs climb two places to third and Arsenal now sit six points adrift of Liverpool in fourth

Harry Kane scored his 23rd Premier League goal of the season as Tottenham Hotspur beat Arsenal 1-0 at Wembley on Saturday to dent their north London rivals' top-four aspirations. After a sluggish first half, Kane jumped highest to head home his seventh derby goal in seven games and Spurs would have won by a greater margin but for an inspired performance from goalkeeper Petr Cech. Spurs climb two places to third and Arsenal now sit six points adrift of Liverpool in fourth - though Juergen Klopp's side has one game in hand. "I am so happy to win," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "We have had three massive games against (Manchester) United, Liverpool and Arsenal and seven points is good. "Harry Kane is not old-fashioned, he is the present and the future. We are so proud that he is in our side." Love a north London derby. ????⚽#COYS #THFC #Premierleague #NLD pic.twitter.com/LNI8KDV2IH — Harry Kane (@HKane) February 10, 2018 × Spurs registered 18 shots to Arsenal's six with Kane, a constant thorn the visitor's side, wasting a number of opportunities to seal a more comfortable scoreline. Arsenal, however, did have late chances to equalise with substitute Alexandre Lacazette - who replaced the ineffective Henrikh Mkhitaryan - twice going close in the closing minutes. "Kane made the difference, that's what he's about," Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. "I have seen the replay, it is no foul, just good centre-forward play. We can only look at ourselves. "It will be more difficult to finish in the top four but we have to fight for it."

EPL: Kane on target as Spurs take derby spoils

<p>England women&#39;s coach&nbsp;Phil&nbsp;Neville has denied being sexist and is confident he is the right person for the job despite his lack of experience.</p>

<p>The former Manchester United defender has been widely criticised since his appointment last week after comments he made on Twitter a few years ago came to light.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One tweet from January 2012 read: &quot;When I said morning men I thought the women would of [sic] been busy preparing breakfast/getting kids ready/making the beds-sorry women!&quot;</p>

<p>Another from December 2012 read: &quot;U women of [sic] always wanted equality until it comes to paying the bills #hypocrites.&quot;</p>

<p>The 41-year-old sportsman deleted the posts last week and took down his Twitter account as criticism grew.</p>

<p>Also, Neville has revealed a historical tweet where he wrote &quot;just battered the wife&quot; was of a sporting nature and he regrets writing it.</p>

<p>&quot;That tweet was not sent out in terms of domestic violence but the words were not right then and not right now,&quot; said Neville, adding that the reference was to beating his wife at sport on holiday.</p>

<p>&quot;I had to apologise, I didn&#39;t like the words used. I&#39;m not a sexist. I&#39;ve lived my life right,&quot; said Neville who has since deleted his Twitter account.</p>

<p>Neville, 41, has also been criticised for his lack of experience of women&#39;s football, but he said he had coached extensively at a high level.</p>

<p>&quot;I&#39;m qualified for the job, I have a (coaching) Pro Licence. It&#39;s to work in all aspects of football. I&#39;ve worked abroad. I&#39;m best qualified for this job.&quot; said Neville, who has never been a manager but coached at Manchester United, England Under-21s and Spanish side Valencia.</p>

<p>Neville said that just as women were now encouraged to comment on men&#39;s football as TV pundits so he should be allowed to enter the women&#39;s game without any direct experience.</p>

<p>&quot;The gap (between the men&#39;s and women&#39;s game) is closing and I would have thought there were not many candidates with my experience of elite players,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Neville&#39;s remarks represent an attempt to draw a line under a saga that has split a women&#39;s game still recovering from the sacking of previous head coach Mark Sampson for inappropriate behaviour in a previous job.</p>

<p>The English FA had clearly hoped Neville&#39;s appointment would begin a new era; instead it plunged the game into further turmoil.</p>

<p>Neville met his new team for the first time at a training camp in Spain last week, stating that his intention was to take the team to the next level.</p>


The former Manchester United defender has been widely criticised since his appointment last week after comments he made on Twitter a few years ago came to light, one of which said he had 'just battered the wife'

England women's coach Phil Neville has denied being sexist and is confident he is the right person for the job despite his lack of experience. The former Manchester United defender has been widely criticised since his appointment last week after comments he made on Twitter a few years ago came to light. One tweet from January 2012 read: "When I said morning men I thought the women would of [sic] been busy preparing breakfast/getting kids ready/making the beds-sorry women!" Another from December 2012 read: "U women of [sic] always wanted equality until it comes to paying the bills #hypocrites." The 41-year-old sportsman deleted the posts last week and took down his Twitter account as criticism grew. Also, Neville has revealed a historical tweet where he wrote "just battered the wife" was of a sporting nature and he regrets writing it. "That tweet was not sent out in terms of domestic violence but the words were not right then and not right now," said Neville, adding that the reference was to beating his wife at sport on holiday. "I had to apologise, I didn't like the words used. I'm not a sexist. I've lived my life right," said Neville who has since deleted his Twitter account. Neville, 41, has also been criticised for his lack of experience of women's football, but he said he had coached extensively at a high level. "I'm qualified for the job, I have a (coaching) Pro Licence. It's to work in all aspects of football. I've worked abroad. I'm best qualified for this job." said Neville, who has never been a manager but coached at Manchester United, England Under-21s and Spanish side Valencia. Neville said that just as women were now encouraged to comment on men's football as TV pundits so he should be allowed to enter the women's game without any direct experience. "The gap (between the men's and women's game) is closing and I would have thought there were not many candidates with my experience of elite players," he said. Neville's remarks represent an attempt to draw a line under a saga that has split a women's game still recovering from the sacking of previous head coach Mark Sampson for inappropriate behaviour in a previous job. The English FA had clearly hoped Neville's appointment would begin a new era; instead it plunged the game into further turmoil. Neville met his new team for the first time at a training camp in Spain last week, stating that his intention was to take the team to the next level.

Soccer: Phil Neville denies being sexist, says he is right for job as women's coach

<p>Wales have appointed former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs as their manager, the Football Association of Wales announced on social media on Monday.</p>

<p>The 44-year-old takes over from Chris Coleman, who led Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals but quit the job in November to take charge of English Championship (second tier) side Sunderland.</p>

<p>Giggs won 64 caps between 1991 and 2007 but was unpopular with some Wales fans for missing many internationals, especially friendlies.</p>

<p>He ended his playing career in 2014 and was Louis van Gaal&#39;s assistant at Old Trafford for the following two seasons before leaving United in 2016 after Jose Mourinho was appointed as manager.</p>


Ryan Giggs takes over from Chris Coleman, who led Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals but quit the job in November

Wales have appointed former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs as their manager, the Football Association of Wales announced on social media on Monday. The 44-year-old takes over from Chris Coleman, who led Wales to the Euro 2016 semi-finals but quit the job in November to take charge of English Championship (second tier) side Sunderland. Giggs won 64 caps between 1991 and 2007 but was unpopular with some Wales fans for missing many internationals, especially friendlies. He ended his playing career in 2014 and was Louis van Gaal's assistant at Old Trafford for the following two seasons before leaving United in 2016 after Jose Mourinho was appointed as manager.

Football: Wales name Ryan Giggs as manager

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