Champions League: Major takeaways from Tottenham vs Manchester City clash

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper&nbsp;Hugo Lloris in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-son-heung-mins-late-winner-gives-tottenham-edge-over-manchester-city-209155">Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs</a> in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Chasing a quadruple bid, City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes.&nbsp;

The Argentine was handed the chance to put City ahead when full-back Danny Rose was controversially adjudged by VAR to have used his arm to block a shot, but his 13th-minute spot kick was brilliantly saved by Lloris.&nbsp;

The French keeper's heroics produced a deafening roar not heard along the Tottenham High Road since Spurs moved out of their old stadium two years ago.&nbsp;

However, it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son Heung-min's 78th-minute winner.&nbsp;

Watch how Sergio Aguero missed the penalty:&nbsp;

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Hugo Lloris is the first goalkeeper to deny Sergio Aguero from the penalty spot more than once since his move to Europe in 2006. 
 
He has saved 3 penalties this season in all competitions 
Vs. Leicester 
Vs. Arsenal 
Vs. Man City<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/JDxKNMrmdH">pic.twitter.com/JDxKNMrmdH</a>
— Òĸę Ťøşįŋ Řı¢ħąřđ ®💙 (@OTR_Achivas) <a href="https://twitter.com/OTR_Achivas/status/1115708568542613504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Here are some Twitter reactions:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> 
 
The Miss Penalty of the Year 
 
Sergio Aguero <a href="https://t.co/X1E7p91EAt">pic.twitter.com/X1E7p91EAt</a>
— JVC 🇲🇼 🇿🇦 🇿🇼 🇺🇸 🇬🇧. 🇪🇺 (@Chimpololo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Chimpololo/status/1115723636395134977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero when the ref gifted City a penalty. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/nQsli8wEbz">pic.twitter.com/nQsli8wEbz</a>
— #FootyOnTop ⚽️🏃🏾‍♂️ (@DDFootyfactory_) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDFootyfactory_/status/1115694850920321024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero’s penalty just now <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TOTMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TOTMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/DHtjFj4TY5">pic.twitter.com/DHtjFj4TY5</a>
— Andrew Jerell Jones (@sluggahjells) <a href="https://twitter.com/sluggahjells/status/1115694354084052993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Live look at Hugo loris. <a href="https://t.co/qwXjTwWuXI">pic.twitter.com/qwXjTwWuXI</a>
— Alex Wile (@thewiledcard) <a href="https://twitter.com/thewiledcard/status/1079055450291822592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said on the eve of the game that his side would need to match the intensity of a City outfit oozing quality, both on the pitch and on a bench containing Kevin de Bruyne, Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane.

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

Sergio Aguero's penalty was denied by Tottenham Hotspur's goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in Manchester City's 0-1 loss to Spurs in Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. Chasing a quadruple bid, City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes. The Argentine was handed the chance to put City ahead when full-back Danny Rose was controversially adjudged by VAR to have used his arm to block a shot, but his 13th-minute spot kick was brilliantly saved by Lloris. The French keeper's heroics produced a deafening roar not heard along the Tottenham High Road since Spurs moved out of their old stadium two years ago. However, it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son Heung-min's 78th-minute winner. Watch how Sergio Aguero missed the penalty: Hugo Lloris is the first goalkeeper to deny Sergio Aguero from the penalty spot more than once since his move to Europe in 2006. He has saved 3 penalties this season in all competitions Vs. Leicester Vs. Arsenal Vs. Man City#TOTMCI #UCL pic.twitter.com/JDxKNMrmdH — Òĸę Ťøşįŋ Řı¢ħąřđ ®💙 (@OTR_Achivas) April 9, 2019 × Here are some Twitter reactions: @ManCity @SpursOfficial The Miss Penalty of the Year Sergio Aguero pic.twitter.com/X1E7p91EAt — JVC 🇲🇼 🇿🇦 🇿🇼 🇺🇸 🇬🇧. 🇪🇺 (@Chimpololo) April 9, 2019 × Sergio Aguero when the ref gifted City a penalty. #UCL #TOTMCI pic.twitter.com/nQsli8wEbz — #FootyOnTop ⚽️🏃🏾‍♂️ (@DDFootyfactory_) April 9, 2019 × Sergio Aguero’s penalty just now #TOTMCI pic.twitter.com/DHtjFj4TY5 — Andrew Jerell Jones (@sluggahjells) April 9, 2019 × Live look at Hugo loris. pic.twitter.com/qwXjTwWuXI — Alex Wile (@thewiledcard) December 29, 2018 × Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said on the eve of the game that his side would need to match the intensity of a City outfit oozing quality, both on the pitch and on a bench containing Kevin de Bruyne, Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane.

Funny Twitter reactions after Sergio Aguero misses penalty against Spurs in UCL clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that the team need to focus on the upcoming crucial matches as there is no time to drink one "drop of beer or alcohol" if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-de-bruyne-and-pep-guardiola-say-quadruple-impossible-but-bernardo-silva-disagrees-208636">players seek a quadruple bid</a>.&nbsp;

After Saturday's 1-0 semi-final win over Brighton and Hove Albion, City are still on course to potentially add the FA Cup, English Premier League and UEFA Champions League and to this season's Carabao Cup victory.&nbsp;

In a press conference, Pep said, "We don't have too much time to tell ourselves 'oh we're so good, how nice everything is.'"&nbsp;

He added, "Because the only focus now is to not drink one drop of beer or alcohol, eat good, rest – regeneration tomorrow, regeneration the day after tomorrow – and prepare for the game against one of the best teams in the Premier League and Europe (Tottenham Hotspur) when they have had six days to prepare and we've had two-and-a-half."&nbsp;

There are just two days for them to prepare between Saturday's FA Cup victory and Tuesday's UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Tottenham Hotspur.

And with Spurs going into the all-English European tie having had a six-day rest period, Guardiola has conceded that the north London side have an advantage.&nbsp;

Guardiola is also worried over the injuries as he said, "Every game we lose players. &nbsp;I don't know whether Kyle Walker will be fit and we are where we are."&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that the team need to focus on the upcoming crucial matches as there is no time to drink one "drop of beer or alcohol" if the players seek a quadruple bid.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said that the team need to focus on the upcoming crucial matches as there is no time to drink one "drop of beer or alcohol" if the players seek a quadruple bid. After Saturday's 1-0 semi-final win over Brighton and Hove Albion, City are still on course to potentially add the FA Cup, English Premier League and UEFA Champions League and to this season's Carabao Cup victory. In a press conference, Pep said, "We don't have too much time to tell ourselves 'oh we're so good, how nice everything is.'" He added, "Because the only focus now is to not drink one drop of beer or alcohol, eat good, rest – regeneration tomorrow, regeneration the day after tomorrow – and prepare for the game against one of the best teams in the Premier League and Europe (Tottenham Hotspur) when they have had six days to prepare and we've had two-and-a-half." There are just two days for them to prepare between Saturday's FA Cup victory and Tuesday's UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Tottenham Hotspur. And with Spurs going into the all-English European tie having had a six-day rest period, Guardiola has conceded that the north London side have an advantage. Guardiola is also worried over the injuries as he said, "Every game we lose players. I don't know whether Kyle Walker will be fit and we are where we are."

Pep Guardiola: 'No time to drink a drop of beer' ahead of Tottenham clash

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park.

The veteran defender, who was brought into the team for a rare appearance after Michael Keane had to withdraw in the warm-up through illness, scored after 10 minutes to earn his side a well-deserved third straight league win.

It marked a significant setback for disappointing Arsenal, who remain fourth in the table but missed an opportunity to leap ahead of their third-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths.

The experienced Jagielka proved Everton's unlikely hero after his late call-up, becoming the oldest goalscorer in the league this season at 36 years 233 days when he poked home his finish after Arsenal failed to clear Lucas Digne's long throw.

The ball had fallen kindly after Dominic Calvert-Lewin got the final touch on to him in the aerial battle, allowing Jagielka to score his first league goal in two years and become Everton's second-oldest marksman in the Premier League era.

"I'm not normally a match-winner, full stop," laughed the former England defender on Sky Sports. "They're the best goals, the little tap-ins from two or three yards."

His goal signalled a hungry and aggressive display from Everton who, while moving up to ninth on 46 points, could have won far more convincingly if Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison had converted any of the side's 23 attempts on goal.

"We got one goal but could have scored a few more," added Jagielka.

He earned special praise from delighted Everton manager Marco Silva, who told the BBC: "He was to start on the bench, but showed how he is a good professional and prepares himself for what the coach and team needs. He is always ready to help the team."

Arsenal, who have conceded at least one goal in every league away match this season, came closest with one curling second-half effort from Henrikh Mkhitaryan but were outplayed and outfought by Silva's team.

They had only two attempts on target in the whole match and, with Mesut Ozil failing to offer much inspiration as captain for the day, endured one of their more frustrating lacklustre away days.

Arsenal's frustration became obvious when the two managers were involved in a brief confrontation in the second half.

"The football is emotional. He wants the best for his team, I want the best for mine. At the end we spoke together and everything is normal," said Silva.

Arsenal boss Emery felt his team would have to rebound swiftly as they prepared to face Napoli in a Europa League quarter-final first leg on Thursday.

"It was not a good result today but we are still fourth," said the Spaniard. "We lost and we need to get up quickly and find the next step."

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park.

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park. The veteran defender, who was brought into the team for a rare appearance after Michael Keane had to withdraw in the warm-up through illness, scored after 10 minutes to earn his side a well-deserved third straight league win. It marked a significant setback for disappointing Arsenal, who remain fourth in the table but missed an opportunity to leap ahead of their third-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths. The experienced Jagielka proved Everton's unlikely hero after his late call-up, becoming the oldest goalscorer in the league this season at 36 years 233 days when he poked home his finish after Arsenal failed to clear Lucas Digne's long throw. The ball had fallen kindly after Dominic Calvert-Lewin got the final touch on to him in the aerial battle, allowing Jagielka to score his first league goal in two years and become Everton's second-oldest marksman in the Premier League era. "I'm not normally a match-winner, full stop," laughed the former England defender on Sky Sports. "They're the best goals, the little tap-ins from two or three yards." His goal signalled a hungry and aggressive display from Everton who, while moving up to ninth on 46 points, could have won far more convincingly if Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison had converted any of the side's 23 attempts on goal. "We got one goal but could have scored a few more," added Jagielka. He earned special praise from delighted Everton manager Marco Silva, who told the BBC: "He was to start on the bench, but showed how he is a good professional and prepares himself for what the coach and team needs. He is always ready to help the team." Arsenal, who have conceded at least one goal in every league away match this season, came closest with one curling second-half effort from Henrikh Mkhitaryan but were outplayed and outfought by Silva's team. They had only two attempts on target in the whole match and, with Mesut Ozil failing to offer much inspiration as captain for the day, endured one of their more frustrating lacklustre away days. Arsenal's frustration became obvious when the two managers were involved in a brief confrontation in the second half. "The football is emotional. He wants the best for his team, I want the best for mine. At the end we spoke together and everything is normal," said Silva. Arsenal boss Emery felt his team would have to rebound swiftly as they prepared to face Napoli in a Europa League quarter-final first leg on Thursday. "It was not a good result today but we are still fourth," said the Spaniard. "We lost and we need to get up quickly and find the next step."

Premier League: Phil Jagielka the hero as Everton dent Arsenal's hopes of top-four finish

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has requested Tottenham Hotspur and England defender Danny Rose to "fight" against racism.&nbsp;

During a press conference, Pep said, "The best way to fight to combat this kind of terrible situation is fighting, being there every day."

Earlier, Rose said that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game and was frustrated by the response of the authorities to the abuse.&nbsp;

Rose was among several English players who were victims of offensive chanting in a Euro 2020 qualifier in Montenegro last month.

"Danny Rose has not to do that," said Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;

He also suggested, "The best way to fight to combat this kind of terrible situation is fighting, being there every day."

He also mentioned that Rose is an extraordinary football player.&nbsp;

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has requested Tottenham Hotspur and England defender Danny Rose to "fight" against racism. During a press conference, Pep said, "The best way to fight to combat this kind of terrible situation is fighting, being there every day.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has requested Tottenham Hotspur and England defender Danny Rose to "fight" against racism. During a press conference, Pep said, "The best way to fight to combat this kind of terrible situation is fighting, being there every day." Earlier, Rose said that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game and was frustrated by the response of the authorities to the abuse. Rose was among several English players who were victims of offensive chanting in a Euro 2020 qualifier in Montenegro last month. "Danny Rose has not to do that," said Pep Guardiola. He also suggested, "The best way to fight to combat this kind of terrible situation is fighting, being there every day." He also mentioned that Rose is an extraordinary football player.

Pep Guardiola requests Danny Rose to 'fight' racism, not to walk away from football

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino described the official opening of the club's new stadium as one of the most memorable days of his life on Wednesday before challenging himself and his team to be worthy of such a stage.

The spectacular 62,062-seater arena, which looks like a spaceship landed in one of London's grittier neighbourhoods, cost around one billion pounds ($1.32 billion) and is expected to be the catalyst to take the club to the next level.

Pochettino, who has earned plaudits for his sterling work at Tottenham during his five-year reign, knows the project on the pitch will be equally as challenging as the vast construction venture that delivered London's biggest club stadium.

So far Tottenham, on a minimal transfer budget compared to the rest of the Premier League's top six, have kept on an upward trajectory, even if they have not won a trophy since 2008.

Now the pressure will be on to deliver some silverware into the brand new trophy room.

"Now we are World Cup winners in terms of facilities. I think we have the best stadium in the world," the Argentine told reporters on an historic night for the club.

"The team play in the Champions League and now the stadium is here we need to be at the same level on the pitch."

A 2-0 win over Crystal Palace to move back above Arsenal into third place was a solid, if unspectacular, start.

With six games remaining, Tottenham are in a fight with their north London rivals, Chelsea and Manchester United to seal a place in the top four and in next season's Champions League.

"We have to start to think it's a new chapter and that Tottenham can be a real contender for big things," Pochettino told reporters in the plush auditorium.

"We have to start to behave like a big club. I think it's going to be a major project."

While the challenge ahead is a daunting one, Pochettino, and the fans who flocked to the new stadium were happy to savour a memorable opening night against Palace in which goals by Son Heung-min and Christian Eriksen sealed the points.

"It was very emotional like the last game at (the old) White Hart Lane. A very special day," Pochettino said.

"This type of moment you are going to keep in your mind, your memories, your heart. It's one of the best moments of my life. We started to feel that it's home, that this is going to be such an important place for the future."

Fans had arrived early to enjoy the incredible array of eating and drinking facilities in the stadium -- including the Goal Line Bar which at 65 metres is the longest bar in Europe, according to the club.

Other state-of-the-art features include a retractable turf pitch which conceals a permanent artificial surface housed beneath which will be used to stage NFL games.

There are many pointers to the past too, with one wall dedicated to Bill Nicholson, the last manager to lead Tottenham to the English league title in 1961.

Pochettino's task now is to try to deliver new glory.

"Today we touched the glory. Now we need to touch the glory of lifting trophies," he said. "Now is the start of a chapter."

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino described the official opening of the club's new stadium as one of the most memorable days of his life on Wednesday before challenging himself and his team to be worthy of such a stage.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino described the official opening of the club's new stadium as one of the most memorable days of his life on Wednesday before challenging himself and his team to be worthy of such a stage. The spectacular 62,062-seater arena, which looks like a spaceship landed in one of London's grittier neighbourhoods, cost around one billion pounds ($1.32 billion) and is expected to be the catalyst to take the club to the next level. Pochettino, who has earned plaudits for his sterling work at Tottenham during his five-year reign, knows the project on the pitch will be equally as challenging as the vast construction venture that delivered London's biggest club stadium. So far Tottenham, on a minimal transfer budget compared to the rest of the Premier League's top six, have kept on an upward trajectory, even if they have not won a trophy since 2008. Now the pressure will be on to deliver some silverware into the brand new trophy room. "Now we are World Cup winners in terms of facilities. I think we have the best stadium in the world," the Argentine told reporters on an historic night for the club. "The team play in the Champions League and now the stadium is here we need to be at the same level on the pitch." A 2-0 win over Crystal Palace to move back above Arsenal into third place was a solid, if unspectacular, start. With six games remaining, Tottenham are in a fight with their north London rivals, Chelsea and Manchester United to seal a place in the top four and in next season's Champions League. "We have to start to think it's a new chapter and that Tottenham can be a real contender for big things," Pochettino told reporters in the plush auditorium. "We have to start to behave like a big club. I think it's going to be a major project." While the challenge ahead is a daunting one, Pochettino, and the fans who flocked to the new stadium were happy to savour a memorable opening night against Palace in which goals by Son Heung-min and Christian Eriksen sealed the points. "It was very emotional like the last game at (the old) White Hart Lane. A very special day," Pochettino said. "This type of moment you are going to keep in your mind, your memories, your heart. It's one of the best moments of my life. We started to feel that it's home, that this is going to be such an important place for the future." Fans had arrived early to enjoy the incredible array of eating and drinking facilities in the stadium -- including the Goal Line Bar which at 65 metres is the longest bar in Europe, according to the club. Other state-of-the-art features include a retractable turf pitch which conceals a permanent artificial surface housed beneath which will be used to stage NFL games. There are many pointers to the past too, with one wall dedicated to Bill Nicholson, the last manager to lead Tottenham to the English league title in 1961. Pochettino's task now is to try to deliver new glory. "Today we touched the glory. Now we need to touch the glory of lifting trophies," he said. "Now is the start of a chapter."

Proud Mauricio Pochettino challenges team to match new stadium

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted that luck and momentum have aided his side following his side's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-own-goal-gives-liverpool-vital-win-over-tottenham-hotspur-207059">2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur</a> on Sunday. After the match, Klopp said, "Without a bit of luck you cannot be in the position we are in, that's not possible."

After Roberto Firmino first goal, and Lucas Moura netted the equaliser for Liverpool but a 90th-minute own goal from Toby Alderweireld gave Liverpool all three points and put them two points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand.&nbsp;

Klopp further added, "The boys worked so hard and I think really they deserved a bit of luck again today and so I am obviously very happy about the result."&nbsp;

Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said that was proud of how the team had played despite being disappointed by the result.&nbsp;

Pochettino's men remain in a close battle with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea for third and fourth place in the league.&nbsp;

Pochettino asked his team to focus on the upcoming games. He said, "I think we have seven games ahead in the Premier League, we need to forget everything and be focusing (on the fact) we have ahead a mini-league that starts on Wednesday, in our new stadium that must be a big boost for everyone."&nbsp;

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Next month, we will crown our 2018/19 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> champions 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/nTvvxqIteT">pic.twitter.com/nTvvxqIteT</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1112624656316551168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It's in our hands to be in the top four at the end of the season," Pochettino added.&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted that luck and momentum have aided his side following his side's 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. After the match, Klopp said, "Without a bit of luck you cannot be in the position we are in, that's not possible.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp admitted that luck and momentum have aided his side following his side's 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. After the match, Klopp said, "Without a bit of luck you cannot be in the position we are in, that's not possible." After Roberto Firmino first goal, and Lucas Moura netted the equaliser for Liverpool but a 90th-minute own goal from Toby Alderweireld gave Liverpool all three points and put them two points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand. Klopp further added, "The boys worked so hard and I think really they deserved a bit of luck again today and so I am obviously very happy about the result." Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said that was proud of how the team had played despite being disappointed by the result. Pochettino's men remain in a close battle with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea for third and fourth place in the league. Pochettino asked his team to focus on the upcoming games. He said, "I think we have seven games ahead in the Premier League, we need to forget everything and be focusing (on the fact) we have ahead a mini-league that starts on Wednesday, in our new stadium that must be a big boost for everyone." Next month, we will crown our 2018/19 #PL champions 🏆 pic.twitter.com/nTvvxqIteT — Premier League (@premierleague) April 1, 2019 × "It's in our hands to be in the top four at the end of the season," Pochettino added.

'Top four in Tottenham's hands,' says Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino

Liverpool secured a last-gasp 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, thanks to an own goal by defender Toby Alderweireld, to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Liverpool are on 79 points with Manchester City, who won at Fulham on Saturday, on 77 points but with a game in hand.

Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris parried out a back post header from Mohamed Salah but the ball struck the unfortunate Belgian central defender and rolled over the line in the 90th minute.

It was a stroke of luck for Liverpool and one which sent Anfield wild with relief as a draw would have handed the advantage in the title race straight to Pep Guardiola's side.

Questions will be asked of Lloris's failure to smother the ball or push it away from danger but it was a cruel end to a strong second half display from Tottenham who are now level on 61 points with fourth-placed Manchester United.

Roberto Firmino opened the scoring in the 16th minute getting between the Spurs central defenders to meet a perfectly shaped cross from left-back Andy Robertson with a firm header.

Juergen Klopp's side looked to quickly add a second but while they roared forward and had Tottenham's defence shaking, their shots on goal were limited.

Tottenham recovered and were well on top after the break. It was no surprise when they drew level -- Harry Kane swinging a wonderful cross-field pass to Kieran Trippier whose low ball was flicked on by Christian Eriksen and Lucas Moura drove home the loose ball.

Spurs could have made it even worse for Liverpool five minutes from the end but Moussa Sissoko, looking far from composed, blasted over at the end of a dangerous counter-attack.

Then came the late winner -- a half-cleared corner was returned by Roberton deep to the far post and Salah's header was pushed out by the French keeper against Alderweireld's shins and into the net.

"It's a massive result for us," said Roberton

"The first half an hour we blew them away without getting a second goal. We got a wee bit sloppy and, to be fair, Spurs have beaten us comfortably in the second half.

"But we fought right to the end and it's all about three points," added the Scotsman.

Moura was dejected, noting Spurs had failed to take their opportunities to win the game.

Liverpool secured a last-gasp 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, thanks to an own goal by defender Toby Alderweireld, to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Liverpool secured a last-gasp 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, thanks to an own goal by defender Toby Alderweireld, to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool are on 79 points with Manchester City, who won at Fulham on Saturday, on 77 points but with a game in hand. Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris parried out a back post header from Mohamed Salah but the ball struck the unfortunate Belgian central defender and rolled over the line in the 90th minute. It was a stroke of luck for Liverpool and one which sent Anfield wild with relief as a draw would have handed the advantage in the title race straight to Pep Guardiola's side. Questions will be asked of Lloris's failure to smother the ball or push it away from danger but it was a cruel end to a strong second half display from Tottenham who are now level on 61 points with fourth-placed Manchester United. Roberto Firmino opened the scoring in the 16th minute getting between the Spurs central defenders to meet a perfectly shaped cross from left-back Andy Robertson with a firm header. Juergen Klopp's side looked to quickly add a second but while they roared forward and had Tottenham's defence shaking, their shots on goal were limited. Tottenham recovered and were well on top after the break. It was no surprise when they drew level -- Harry Kane swinging a wonderful cross-field pass to Kieran Trippier whose low ball was flicked on by Christian Eriksen and Lucas Moura drove home the loose ball. Spurs could have made it even worse for Liverpool five minutes from the end but Moussa Sissoko, looking far from composed, blasted over at the end of a dangerous counter-attack. Then came the late winner -- a half-cleared corner was returned by Roberton deep to the far post and Salah's header was pushed out by the French keeper against Alderweireld's shins and into the net. "It's a massive result for us," said Roberton "The first half an hour we blew them away without getting a second goal. We got a wee bit sloppy and, to be fair, Spurs have beaten us comfortably in the second half. "But we fought right to the end and it's all about three points," added the Scotsman. Moura was dejected, noting Spurs had failed to take their opportunities to win the game.

Late own goal gives Liverpool vital win over Tottenham Hotspur

Liverpool head <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Jurgen+Klopp">Jurgen Klopp</a> coach addressed media ahead of the Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.&nbsp;

Klopp called Tottenham a ''world-class team'' the Reds prepare to face Spurs at the Anfield.&nbsp;

During the pre-match press conference, Klopp said, "We expect the strongest Tottenham you can expect because I think I heard nothing about any injury problems or whatever. They had a few over the season but not in the moment."&nbsp;

"So, it will be a strong side. A world-class team."

"We could see even without preparing the game, but we did now in the last week of course, but before that we saw the Champion's League games, we saw Tottenham playing. So, it's a very, very good football team. Unfortunately, very good team," Klopp added.&nbsp;

Liverpool are currently top of the league, two points ahead of second-placed Manchester City who have a game in hand and Tottenham sit in third, a huge 15 points behind the leaders.

Klopp also commented on the racist abuse suffered by some England players during England's 5-1 win over Montenegro in Podgorica on Monday.

Klopp said he was "disappointed" that the incident occurred, and he would consider taking his team off the pitch if he felt abuse was serious but would ultimately like match officials to make the decision.&nbsp;

"It's very difficult for me to hear it, to hear things like that in the stadium and probably see it in a moment," said Klopp.&nbsp;

Klopp showed determination to stand together with other coaches on the subject of racism but he said there should be "better ways to punish these guys".&nbsp;

Liverpool head Jurgen Klopp coach addressed media ahead of the Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Klopp called Tottenham a ''world-class team'' the Reds prepare to face Spurs at the Anfield.

Liverpool head Jurgen Klopp coach addressed media ahead of the Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Klopp called Tottenham a ''world-class team'' the Reds prepare to face Spurs at the Anfield. During the pre-match press conference, Klopp said, "We expect the strongest Tottenham you can expect because I think I heard nothing about any injury problems or whatever. They had a few over the season but not in the moment." "So, it will be a strong side. A world-class team." "We could see even without preparing the game, but we did now in the last week of course, but before that we saw the Champion's League games, we saw Tottenham playing. So, it's a very, very good football team. Unfortunately, very good team," Klopp added. Liverpool are currently top of the league, two points ahead of second-placed Manchester City who have a game in hand and Tottenham sit in third, a huge 15 points behind the leaders. Klopp also commented on the racist abuse suffered by some England players during England's 5-1 win over Montenegro in Podgorica on Monday. Klopp said he was "disappointed" that the incident occurred, and he would consider taking his team off the pitch if he felt abuse was serious but would ultimately like match officials to make the decision. "It's very difficult for me to hear it, to hear things like that in the stadium and probably see it in a moment," said Klopp. Klopp showed determination to stand together with other coaches on the subject of racism but he said there should be "better ways to punish these guys".

Tottenham 'world-class' team, says Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool and Spurs go head to head

Mauricio Pochettino said everyone connected with Tottenham Hotspur "needed to cry" after the club's new stadium finally staged its first football match.

The 62,000-seat arena, close to the north London club's old home of White Hart Lane, has been beset by delays and reports of spiralling costs which, according to some estimates, have reached £1 billion ($1.32 billion, 1.17 billion euros).

But Sunday saw it play host to a maiden test event, with Tottenham's Under-18 side beating their Southampton counterparts 3-1.

Club officials hope Spurs' senior team will play their first match at the new ground, a Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace, on April 3.&nbsp;

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It’s great to be back. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpursNewStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpursNewStadium</a> ⚪ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/Daj0ESlvqF">pic.twitter.com/Daj0ESlvqF</a>
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Spurs' J'Neil Bennett wrote his name into the history books by scoring the first ever goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a wonderful curling strike from the edge of the box that flew into the bottom corner.

Sunday's match was the first of two test events required in order to receive relevant safety certificates from Haringey council, with the second of these coming when a 'legends' team plays Inter Milan on Saturday.

'Unbelievable'

Pochettino has been linked with vacancies at Real Madrid and Manchester United but the Argentinian has repeatedly made clear his wish to still be in charge when the senior Spurs side play at the new ground.

"I think it is unbelievable, it is so difficult to explain in only a few words," he said as he surveyed the scene on Sunday.

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"We all feel the same, so excited, I got the same feeling when we left White Hart Lane on the last day, we were crying and now in the first day in the new stadium we feel the same emotion. We need to cry because our dream became true."

Should everything follow the revised plan, and the Palace match take place as scheduled on April 3, Tottenham will play the home leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City at their new ground rather than at Wembley, which has been a temporary base while the building work has been in progress.

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☀️ Sunshine at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpursNewStadium?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpursNewStadium</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/HT1HXTJlwp">pic.twitter.com/HT1HXTJlwp</a>
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"We are in a very good place in the Premier League and of course we have a massive challenge in the quarter-final of the Champions League and I think with all of our fans, 62,000, it is going to be fantastic to play and we can make it possible our dream to be in the semi-final," said Pochettino. "Why not?"

Meanwhile, Pochettino saluted Tottenham supporters for their patience during the 679 days since the last game at White Hart Lane, with the new ground's planned opening at the start of this season delayed before a new date in September was also shelved following the failure of "critical alarm systems".

"Thank you so much to the fans for being so patient because in the last two years we moved to Wembley and (had) all the problems it means to move from your home to Wembley," Pochettino said. "But now all the effort has paid off and it is going to be amazing."

Mauricio Pochettino said everyone connected with Tottenham Hotspur "needed to cry" after the club's new stadium finally staged its first football match. The 62,000-seat arena, close to the north London club's old home of White Hart Lane, has been beset by delays and reports of spiralling costs which, according to some estimates, have reached £1 billion ($1.

Mauricio Pochettino said everyone connected with Tottenham Hotspur "needed to cry" after the club's new stadium finally staged its first football match. The 62,000-seat arena, close to the north London club's old home of White Hart Lane, has been beset by delays and reports of spiralling costs which, according to some estimates, have reached £1 billion ($1.32 billion, 1.17 billion euros). But Sunday saw it play host to a maiden test event, with Tottenham's Under-18 side beating their Southampton counterparts 3-1. Club officials hope Spurs' senior team will play their first match at the new ground, a Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace, on April 3. It’s great to be back. #SpursNewStadium ⚪ #COYS pic.twitter.com/Daj0ESlvqF — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 24, 2019 × Spurs' J'Neil Bennett wrote his name into the history books by scoring the first ever goal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a wonderful curling strike from the edge of the box that flew into the bottom corner. Sunday's match was the first of two test events required in order to receive relevant safety certificates from Haringey council, with the second of these coming when a 'legends' team plays Inter Milan on Saturday. 'Unbelievable' Pochettino has been linked with vacancies at Real Madrid and Manchester United but the Argentinian has repeatedly made clear his wish to still be in charge when the senior Spurs side play at the new ground. "I think it is unbelievable, it is so difficult to explain in only a few words," he said as he surveyed the scene on Sunday. Hello, you 😍#SpursNewStadium ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/tm60qeHBaQ — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 24, 2019 × "We all feel the same, so excited, I got the same feeling when we left White Hart Lane on the last day, we were crying and now in the first day in the new stadium we feel the same emotion. We need to cry because our dream became true." Should everything follow the revised plan, and the Palace match take place as scheduled on April 3, Tottenham will play the home leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City at their new ground rather than at Wembley, which has been a temporary base while the building work has been in progress. ☀️ Sunshine at #SpursNewStadium. #COYS pic.twitter.com/HT1HXTJlwp — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) March 24, 2019 × "We are in a very good place in the Premier League and of course we have a massive challenge in the quarter-final of the Champions League and I think with all of our fans, 62,000, it is going to be fantastic to play and we can make it possible our dream to be in the semi-final," said Pochettino. "Why not?" Meanwhile, Pochettino saluted Tottenham supporters for their patience during the 679 days since the last game at White Hart Lane, with the new ground's planned opening at the start of this season delayed before a new date in September was also shelved following the failure of "critical alarm systems". "Thank you so much to the fans for being so patient because in the last two years we moved to Wembley and (had) all the problems it means to move from your home to Wembley," Pochettino said. "But now all the effort has paid off and it is going to be amazing."

Mauricio Pochettino hails 'dream come true' as Spurs' new stadium stages first match

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time.

United have rediscovered their verve under interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took over from Jose Mourinho in December, and has guided the club to 14 wins in 19 games.

Pochettino, however, feels United still have a lot of work to do to compete with Barcelona, who are 10 points clear at the top of the La Liga standings.

"If there is one favourite team to win Champions League it is Barcelona," former Espanyol boss Pochettino told reporters.

"(Ernesto) Valverde is doing a great job. They have players of extraordinary level, and then they have Lionel Messi.

"I think the Manchester United team that has been built during the past few years was built to win big things. But I think Barcelona are one step higher than Manchester United."

Spurs will face domestic rivals Manchester City in the quarter-finals, with Pochettino indicating Pep Guardiola's reigning English champions are built to win Europe's elite trophy.

"It is clear that Manchester City are a team designed to win and with an obligation to win," he added.

"We will try to compete. We know that in short tournaments the fitness of the team at the time is very important. We have the incentive that we have a new stadium and we will play with 62,000 spectators. That will create a special energy."

Tottenham will complete the move to their new 62,000-seater stadium before they host City on April 9.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time. United have rediscovered their verve under interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took over from Jose Mourinho in December, and has guided the club to 14 wins in 19 games. Pochettino, however, feels United still have a lot of work to do to compete with Barcelona, who are 10 points clear at the top of the La Liga standings. "If there is one favourite team to win Champions League it is Barcelona," former Espanyol boss Pochettino told reporters. "(Ernesto) Valverde is doing a great job. They have players of extraordinary level, and then they have Lionel Messi. "I think the Manchester United team that has been built during the past few years was built to win big things. But I think Barcelona are one step higher than Manchester United." Spurs will face domestic rivals Manchester City in the quarter-finals, with Pochettino indicating Pep Guardiola's reigning English champions are built to win Europe's elite trophy. "It is clear that Manchester City are a team designed to win and with an obligation to win," he added. "We will try to compete. We know that in short tournaments the fitness of the team at the time is very important. We have the incentive that we have a new stadium and we will play with 62,000 spectators. That will create a special energy." Tottenham will complete the move to their new 62,000-seater stadium before they host City on April 9.

Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino picks Barcelona as favourites to win Champions League

Liverpool showed they are back as one of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldos-hat-trick-against-atletico-madrid-powers-juventus-into-quarter-finals-202975"> European football's powerhouses</a> after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-seven-up-for-manchester-city-as-they-demolish-schalke-203025">last season's Champions League</a> runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended."

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended." "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Champions League: Liverpool outplay Bayern Munich to reach quarter-finals

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality.

"We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes.

But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points.

"The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win.

"When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added.

"I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously."

For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind.

"We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us."

Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season.

Mauricio Pochettino accused Tottenham players of not taking the second half seriously after conceding twice in five minutes at Southampton, a 2-1 defeat that threatens their Champions League qualification for next season. Days after securing a place in the season's quarter-finals, third-placed Spurs face a battle to hang on to a top-four place in domestic competition and Spurs manager Pochettino questioned his players' mentality. "We need to realise if you do not fight with intensity for the Champions League, you will struggle," said Pochettino, whose side appeared to be cruising at St Mary's after Harry Kane scored his 200th career goal on 26 minutes. But Saints revived after the interval, battling to an unexpected three points. "The reality is you cannot only play for 45 minutes, we are a Champions League team, into the quarter-finals," said Pochettino, whose side beat high-flying Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in Germany on Tuesday to complete a 4-0 aggregate win. "When you lose the momentum after 45 minutes, that is about mentality. For us, we lost the momentum and gave them relief. It is so difficult to understand why we changed so much from the first half to the second," Pochettino added. "I am very disappointed, we were better in everything and then we lose the game. It is about competing better for the first goal if you want to be a contender for big things. The second half we did not take it seriously." For much of this season a top-four place looked assured but three defeats and one draw in four games -- their worst league run for 15 months -- has left Spurs three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United, with Arsenal and Chelsea close behind. "We are fighting against big sides (for the top four)," said Pochettino. "We had a big gap, welcome to the reality, we are under pressure to win games. It is a massive challenge for us." Tottenham have three weeks to prepare for their next league game at Anfield against a Liverpool team still firmly in the title chase.

Pochettino criticises Spurs players after Southampton loss

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino was banned for two games and fined 10,000 pounds ($13,000) by the English Football Association (FA) on Wednesday after accepting an improper conduct charge.

The Argentine confronted referee Mike Dean after his team's 2-1 Premier League defeat at Burnley last month that led to Spurs losing ground to Manchester City and Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

"Mauricio Pochettino has been fined 10,000 pounds and will serve a two-match touchline ban following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing," the FA said in a statement.

"The Tottenham manager accepted an improper conduct charge from the FA, which resulted from his language and/or behaviour – both on the pitch and in or around the tunnel area."

The ban means the 47-year-old will not be in the dugout for Tottenham's league trips to Southampton on Saturday and Liverpool on March 31.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino was banned for two games and fined 10,000 pounds ($13,000) by the English Football Association (FA) on Wednesday after accepting an improper conduct charge.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino was banned for two games and fined 10,000 pounds ($13,000) by the English Football Association (FA) on Wednesday after accepting an improper conduct charge. The Argentine confronted referee Mike Dean after his team's 2-1 Premier League defeat at Burnley last month that led to Spurs losing ground to Manchester City and Liverpool in the Premier League title race. "Mauricio Pochettino has been fined 10,000 pounds and will serve a two-match touchline ban following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing," the FA said in a statement. "The Tottenham manager accepted an improper conduct charge from the FA, which resulted from his language and/or behaviour – both on the pitch and in or around the tunnel area." The ban means the 47-year-old will not be in the dugout for Tottenham's league trips to Southampton on Saturday and Liverpool on March 31.

Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino gets two-game ban for improper conduct

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus.

Bundesliga leaders Dortmund have managed just one win in their last five league games, while also losing to Tottenham in London and being eliminated by Werder Bremen in the German Cup.

Reus, injured in the game against Werder in early February, returned on Friday but could do nothing to avert their second league loss of the season, 2-1 at Augsburg.

On Monday, he sounded confident that his team could still turn things around against the English side if they hit top form on the night.

"I think this stadium (in Dortmund) has seen its share of games where history was written," Reus told a news conference. "We can also do it. But we need a top performance and to score the goals at the right time. I think we are in a position to achieve the impossible."

Dortmund still have the best attack in the German Bundesliga but in recent weeks they have struggled to score while also conceding goals through individual errors.

Their seven-point gap a few weeks ago has now shrunk to a slim goal difference ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich while their lacklustre first-leg performance against Tottenham also raised alarm bells.

"We know in the past weeks we have gifted away points because we made too many mistakes," Reus said. "We have to remain positive and keep working.

"We have to be stronger, have a stronger mentality, like we had in the previous months. We will emerge from this."

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus.

Borussia Dortmund are going into their Champions League Round-of-16 the second leg at home against Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday with a clear disadvantage after a 3-0 first-leg loss but the Germans will attempt a major upset, said captain Marco Reus. Bundesliga leaders Dortmund have managed just one win in their last five league games, while also losing to Tottenham in London and being eliminated by Werder Bremen in the German Cup. Reus, injured in the game against Werder in early February, returned on Friday but could do nothing to avert their second league loss of the season, 2-1 at Augsburg. On Monday, he sounded confident that his team could still turn things around against the English side if they hit top form on the night. "I think this stadium (in Dortmund) has seen its share of games where history was written," Reus told a news conference. "We can also do it. But we need a top performance and to score the goals at the right time. I think we are in a position to achieve the impossible." Dortmund still have the best attack in the German Bundesliga but in recent weeks they have struggled to score while also conceding goals through individual errors. Their seven-point gap a few weeks ago has now shrunk to a slim goal difference ahead of second-placed Bayern Munich while their lacklustre first-leg performance against Tottenham also raised alarm bells. "We know in the past weeks we have gifted away points because we made too many mistakes," Reus said. "We have to remain positive and keep working. "We have to be stronger, have a stronger mentality, like we had in the previous months. We will emerge from this."

Dortmund to attempt the impossible against Tottenham: Marco Reus

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach.

"It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference.

"Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big."

Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks.

However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving.

"The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added.

"I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season.

"We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team."

Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday. A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City. Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach. "It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference. "Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big." Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks. However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving. "The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added. "I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season. "We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team." Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

'Nearly impossible' for Spurs to bounce back in title race: Mauricio Pochettino

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish.

Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday.

Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week.

Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth.

Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat.

Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener.

Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear.

The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net.

Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser.

Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside.

The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno.

However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind.

Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark.

The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy.

Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser.

Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season.

Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on.

However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed.

Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby. Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish. Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday. Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week. Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth. Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat. Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener. Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear. The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net. Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser. Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside. The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno. However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind. Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark. The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy. Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser. Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot. Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season. Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on. However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed. Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris salvages Spurs a point against Arsenal

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby.

Emery's team are in better form than third-placed Tottenham and can close the gap on their hated neighbours to just one point if they beat win at Wembley.

Arsenal are on a run of three straight wins but Spurs have crashed to consecutive defeats at Burnley and Chelsea, forcing coach Mauricio Pochettino to concede they are out of the title race and leaving them in a battle to finish in the top four.

"Sometimes we can take the big opportunity like tomorrow because there were 10 points difference between us and Spurs two weeks ago. Now it's four points," Emery said.

"Tomorrow we are going to play together and it's very important for both teams. It's very different if you win or lose.

"This is a big opportunity for us to play with confidence in our moment, respecting them because they lost two matches but they are still having a very good season."

Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth on Wednesday was especially rewarding for Emery as he was able to rest several players, including Alexandre Lacazette and Shkodran Mustafi, for the derby.

Emery says Arsenal's winning streak has raised morale at just the right time and he wants his players to feed off the confidence factor.

"We want to play with confidence and also free in our minds, with a focus on our game plan. All individuals can have this confidence," he said.

"We will prepare to deliver the best performance individually and collectively. We need to be strong and we need to be very concentrated over 90 minutes."

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery warned Tottenham on Friday that his side are ready to take their "big opportunity" to finish above them by winning Saturday's north London derby. Emery's team are in better form than third-placed Tottenham and can close the gap on their hated neighbours to just one point if they beat win at Wembley. Arsenal are on a run of three straight wins but Spurs have crashed to consecutive defeats at Burnley and Chelsea, forcing coach Mauricio Pochettino to concede they are out of the title race and leaving them in a battle to finish in the top four. "Sometimes we can take the big opportunity like tomorrow because there were 10 points difference between us and Spurs two weeks ago. Now it's four points," Emery said. "Tomorrow we are going to play together and it's very important for both teams. It's very different if you win or lose. "This is a big opportunity for us to play with confidence in our moment, respecting them because they lost two matches but they are still having a very good season." Arsenal's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth on Wednesday was especially rewarding for Emery as he was able to rest several players, including Alexandre Lacazette and Shkodran Mustafi, for the derby. Emery says Arsenal's winning streak has raised morale at just the right time and he wants his players to feed off the confidence factor. "We want to play with confidence and also free in our minds, with a focus on our game plan. All individuals can have this confidence," he said. "We will prepare to deliver the best performance individually and collectively. We need to be strong and we need to be very concentrated over 90 minutes."

Unai Emery vows Arsenal will take 'big opportunity' against Spurs

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a>'s face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Sarri has been under the immense pressure of late after his side's poor form and it seemed he was losing control at Wembley on Sunday when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted at the end of extra time against Manchester City.

Arrizabalaga was dropped by Sarri for the visit of third-placed Tottenham with Willy Caballero taking his place -- a move that could have backfired on the Italian.

As it turned out, Caballero did not have much to do and it was Tottenham keeper Hugo Lloris who became the fall guy.

First he was beaten from a tight angle by Pedro in the 57th minute and then he was jointly culpable in a comical own goal by Kieran Trippier late on.

From being talked about as title contenders a few days ago Tottenham have lost two league games in a row and now have the pack closing in below them in the battle for a top-four finish.

Chelsea remained in sixth spot, three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal having played a game less.

Tottenham are four ahead of Arsenal who they host on Saturday, and five in front of Manchester United.

Arrizabalaga's antics had overshadowed what was an impressive display by Chelsea against Manchester City when they were beaten in a penalty shoot-out.

Sarri said dropping him was a "message to the group" and it clearly hit home as Chelsea's players put in a shift.

"The performance was in line with the last one and fortunately the result was different -- but the performance was very similar to the one against Man City," Sarri said.

"I was sure my relationship with my players is really very good and in the last month better."

Chelsea began at a high-tempo and Gonzalo Higuain twice went close to giving them the lead -- first with a sliced shot against the post and then with a curler wide.

Tottenham's Harry Kane struggled to make an impression, letting his frustration boil over at one point.

Harry Winks did go close to giving Spurs the lead with a dipping shot against the crossbar.

But Tottenham lacked their usual conviction in attack and they fell behind when Pedro turned inside Toby Alderweireld before shooting past Lloris from an unpromising angle.

Pedro then showed his defensive qualities with a great tackle on Christian Eriksen as the Dane wriggled through.

Yet any hope of a Tottenham comeback was eradicated when Trippier and Lloris failed to communicate and Trippier's attempted back pass rolled into an unguarded net.

Tottenham did not have a shot on target and after Saturday's defeat at Burnley suddenly look vulnerable.

"It wasn't a great game to watch. Of course very, very disappointed but we move on," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "Two games and two defeats but now it's about being calm."

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager Maurizio Sarri's face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Chelsea put a tumultuous few days behind them and a smile back on manager Maurizio Sarri's face as they revived their top-four hopes with a 2-0 victory over stuttering Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday. Sarri has been under the immense pressure of late after his side's poor form and it seemed he was losing control at Wembley on Sunday when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga refused to be substituted at the end of extra time against Manchester City. Arrizabalaga was dropped by Sarri for the visit of third-placed Tottenham with Willy Caballero taking his place -- a move that could have backfired on the Italian. As it turned out, Caballero did not have much to do and it was Tottenham keeper Hugo Lloris who became the fall guy. First he was beaten from a tight angle by Pedro in the 57th minute and then he was jointly culpable in a comical own goal by Kieran Trippier late on. From being talked about as title contenders a few days ago Tottenham have lost two league games in a row and now have the pack closing in below them in the battle for a top-four finish. Chelsea remained in sixth spot, three points behind fourth-placed Arsenal having played a game less. Tottenham are four ahead of Arsenal who they host on Saturday, and five in front of Manchester United. Arrizabalaga's antics had overshadowed what was an impressive display by Chelsea against Manchester City when they were beaten in a penalty shoot-out. Sarri said dropping him was a "message to the group" and it clearly hit home as Chelsea's players put in a shift. "The performance was in line with the last one and fortunately the result was different -- but the performance was very similar to the one against Man City," Sarri said. "I was sure my relationship with my players is really very good and in the last month better." Chelsea began at a high-tempo and Gonzalo Higuain twice went close to giving them the lead -- first with a sliced shot against the post and then with a curler wide. Tottenham's Harry Kane struggled to make an impression, letting his frustration boil over at one point. Harry Winks did go close to giving Spurs the lead with a dipping shot against the crossbar. But Tottenham lacked their usual conviction in attack and they fell behind when Pedro turned inside Toby Alderweireld before shooting past Lloris from an unpromising angle. Pedro then showed his defensive qualities with a great tackle on Christian Eriksen as the Dane wriggled through. Yet any hope of a Tottenham comeback was eradicated when Trippier and Lloris failed to communicate and Trippier's attempted back pass rolled into an unguarded net. Tottenham did not have a shot on target and after Saturday's defeat at Burnley suddenly look vulnerable. "It wasn't a great game to watch. Of course very, very disappointed but we move on," Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino said. "Two games and two defeats but now it's about being calm."

Kepa Arrizabalaga dropped as Chelsea beat Tottenham 2-0

The English Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino with improper conduct for confronting the referee after Saturday's shock 2-1 Premier League defeat at Burnley.

Defeat dented third-placed Tottenham's title hopes and Pochettino appeared to vent his frustration at referee Mike Dean in a furious confrontation.

"It is alleged the Tottenham Hotspur manager's language and/or behaviour at the end of the fixture - both on the pitch and in or around the tunnel area - amounted to improper conduct," the FA said in a statement.

Pochettino was charged for two breaches of the FA's Rule E3 which concerns general behaviour and faces the prospect of a fine or a touchline ban.

"I think I am going to accept everything that can happen from the FA. The thing happened on the pitch and I hope that it's not going (any) further," he said on Saturday.

The Argentine has until 1800 GMT on Thursday to respond to the charge.

The English Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino with improper conduct for confronting the referee after Saturday's shock 2-1 Premier League defeat at Burnley.

The English Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino with improper conduct for confronting the referee after Saturday's shock 2-1 Premier League defeat at Burnley. Defeat dented third-placed Tottenham's title hopes and Pochettino appeared to vent his frustration at referee Mike Dean in a furious confrontation. "It is alleged the Tottenham Hotspur manager's language and/or behaviour at the end of the fixture - both on the pitch and in or around the tunnel area - amounted to improper conduct," the FA said in a statement. Pochettino was charged for two breaches of the FA's Rule E3 which concerns general behaviour and faces the prospect of a fine or a touchline ban. "I think I am going to accept everything that can happen from the FA. The thing happened on the pitch and I hope that it's not going (any) further," he said on Saturday. The Argentine has until 1800 GMT on Thursday to respond to the charge.

Tottenham boss Pochettino charged with improper conduct by FA

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday.

Ashley Barnes' 83rd minute winner for Burnley, after Kane had cancelled out Chris Woods' opener, extended their unbeaten run to eight games and moved them up to 13th place in the league with one of their best results since returning to the top flight.

But for third-placed Spurs, who trail leaders Manchester City and Liverpool by five points, this may prove to be a loss that leaves them with too much ground to make up.

At an unseasonably sun-splashed Turf Moor, Kane returned to the Spurs line-up for the first time since suffering an ankle injury against Manchester United on Jan. 13 with England manager Gareth Southgate watching from the stands.

But he will have left East Lancashire also impressed by Burnley central defensive pair of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee who kept the England captain and the Spurs attack well under control.

Spurs made a slow start to the lunchtime kick-off game and it was not until the 16th minute that they threatened when Kane worked some space for himself, on the edge of the penalty area, but his left-foot effort was comfortably wide of Tom Heaton’s post.

Burnley were harrying and closing down well in midfield, with Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork particularly busy, and Spurs struggled to find their rhythm or any real openings for their captain.

Barnes went close to an opener in the 33rd, Jeff Hendrick pulling the ball back and the Burnley striker’s first time effort flashed just over the bar. The effort would surely have impressed the watching Austrian national team coach Franco Foda, given Barnes’ eligibility for the country through his paternal grandmother.

Burnley’s disciplined defending ensured the teams went in level at the break but four minutes after the resumption, Kane fired another warning, a dangerously dipping and swerving shot from 30 metres out bringing out the best in Heaton.

Burnley took the lead in the 57th minute with a glancing header by Wood, who rose ahead of Juan Foyth to angle in a Dwight McNeil corner.

Spurs believed the corner should not have been awarded but they responded positively.

Eight minutes later Kane, who had looked a little rusty, ran on to a quick throw-in from Danny Rose, got behind Mee and slipped the ball past Heaton.

Burnley were angered that Rose had taken the throw-in several metres ahead of the spot were the ball went out of play but their protests were in vain.

The Clarets, who have been in or around the relegation zone for most of the season, grabbed the winner though when substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson found Barnes at the back post and the striker fired in his fourth goal in as many games.

Members of the Spurs coaching staff furiously protested against the referee after the final whistle.&nbsp;

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday.

Harry Kane scored on his return from injury for Tottenham but his side fell to a surprise 2-1 defeat at Burnley, which severely dented their Premier League title hopes on Saturday. Ashley Barnes' 83rd minute winner for Burnley, after Kane had cancelled out Chris Woods' opener, extended their unbeaten run to eight games and moved them up to 13th place in the league with one of their best results since returning to the top flight. But for third-placed Spurs, who trail leaders Manchester City and Liverpool by five points, this may prove to be a loss that leaves them with too much ground to make up. At an unseasonably sun-splashed Turf Moor, Kane returned to the Spurs line-up for the first time since suffering an ankle injury against Manchester United on Jan. 13 with England manager Gareth Southgate watching from the stands. But he will have left East Lancashire also impressed by Burnley central defensive pair of James Tarkowski and Ben Mee who kept the England captain and the Spurs attack well under control. Spurs made a slow start to the lunchtime kick-off game and it was not until the 16th minute that they threatened when Kane worked some space for himself, on the edge of the penalty area, but his left-foot effort was comfortably wide of Tom Heaton’s post. Burnley were harrying and closing down well in midfield, with Ashley Westwood and Jack Cork particularly busy, and Spurs struggled to find their rhythm or any real openings for their captain. Barnes went close to an opener in the 33rd, Jeff Hendrick pulling the ball back and the Burnley striker’s first time effort flashed just over the bar. The effort would surely have impressed the watching Austrian national team coach Franco Foda, given Barnes’ eligibility for the country through his paternal grandmother. Burnley’s disciplined defending ensured the teams went in level at the break but four minutes after the resumption, Kane fired another warning, a dangerously dipping and swerving shot from 30 metres out bringing out the best in Heaton. Burnley took the lead in the 57th minute with a glancing header by Wood, who rose ahead of Juan Foyth to angle in a Dwight McNeil corner. Spurs believed the corner should not have been awarded but they responded positively. Eight minutes later Kane, who had looked a little rusty, ran on to a quick throw-in from Danny Rose, got behind Mee and slipped the ball past Heaton. Burnley were angered that Rose had taken the throw-in several metres ahead of the spot were the ball went out of play but their protests were in vain. The Clarets, who have been in or around the relegation zone for most of the season, grabbed the winner though when substitute Johann Berg Gudmundsson found Barnes at the back post and the striker fired in his fourth goal in as many games. Members of the Spurs coaching staff furiously protested against the referee after the final whistle.

Harry Kane scores on return but Spurs fall at Burnley

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

Injuries to top scorer Kane and playmaker Alli, along with Son Heung-min's absence due to Asian Cup duty, meant the club's squad-depth was exposed during losses to Chelsea and Crystal Palace which ended their domestic cup campaigns last month.

But four straight Premier League victories have kept Spurs in the title race at this stage for a fourth consecutive season, while a 3-0 home win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last-16 first-leg has boosted their hopes of progressing.

"The past few weeks have been very good," England full-back Tripper told Sky Sports on Saturday.

"We could have played a lot better, we all know that, but the results are the most important thing.

"We've had a few injuries recently and the people that have stepped in have done really well."

Trippier has credited Son's purple patch in front of goal for Tottenham's resurgence, with the South Korean scoring four times in as many appearances since returning from playing for South Korea in a third tournament since the end of last season.

Son has now scored 16 goals in all competitions -- 11 in his last 12 matches -- and Spurs have won whenever the forward has found the net this season.

"If you look at Son, he's played in three major tournaments this season and he still looks fresh," added Trippier.

"He's come back and scored goals and topped it off with the result the other night which was amazing."

Spurs, currently third in the league five points behind the pacesetters Liverpool with 12 games left, next visit 15th-placed Burnley on February 23.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Kieran Trippier has hailed their ability to grind out results in recent weeks as they continue to juggle domestic and European commitments without his fellow England internationals, Harry Kane and Dele Alli. Injuries to top scorer Kane and playmaker Alli, along with Son Heung-min's absence due to Asian Cup duty, meant the club's squad-depth was exposed during losses to Chelsea and Crystal Palace which ended their domestic cup campaigns last month. But four straight Premier League victories have kept Spurs in the title race at this stage for a fourth consecutive season, while a 3-0 home win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last-16 first-leg has boosted their hopes of progressing. "The past few weeks have been very good," England full-back Tripper told Sky Sports on Saturday. "We could have played a lot better, we all know that, but the results are the most important thing. "We've had a few injuries recently and the people that have stepped in have done really well." Trippier has credited Son's purple patch in front of goal for Tottenham's resurgence, with the South Korean scoring four times in as many appearances since returning from playing for South Korea in a third tournament since the end of last season. Son has now scored 16 goals in all competitions -- 11 in his last 12 matches -- and Spurs have won whenever the forward has found the net this season. "If you look at Son, he's played in three major tournaments this season and he still looks fresh," added Trippier. "He's come back and scored goals and topped it off with the result the other night which was amazing." Spurs, currently third in the league five points behind the pacesetters Liverpool with 12 games left, next visit 15th-placed Burnley on February 23.

Tottenham's fighting spirit delights Kieran Trippier

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/vertonghen-shines-as-tottenham-cruise-past-dortmund-3-0-197303">convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund</a> in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham stunned the Germans with a goal two minutes after halftime from Korean forward Son Heung-min and struck twice late in the game through Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen, who was deployed in an unusual left wing back role, and substitute Fernando Llorente.

"It is a massive, massive performance and effort from my players," Pochettino told reporters.

"My players are heroes. They deserve a lot of praise because their effort this season is amazing.

"It is only the first half of the tie -- 3-0 is a very good result, but we must go to Dortmund with the idea of winning. It is a very good result but there is a lot of work to do."

The second leg is in Germany on March 5.

Tottenham were on the backfoot in the first half against the Bundesliga leaders, who had conceded only two goals in the entire group stage and had the better scoring chances.

The Argentine coach said he had to talk to his players at halftime to discuss ways of slowing their opponents down, with Dortmund's Jadon Sancho wreaking havoc down the wing.

"I would not say the team were nervous but the second half was much better. At halftime we showed them a few situations that could have been different," Pochettino said.

"We tried to help the team make the right decisions and perform in the best way. You need some luck, too. For me it is only the first leg, the first half but it is a very good result."

The result equalled Dortmund's heaviest away defeat in the Champions League.

The Germans also suffered a morale-sapping 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim last week in the Bundesliga after leading 3-0 and were also eliminated from the German Cup by Werder Bremen on penalties.

"We played well in the first half, had a couple of chances, We defended really well and played well going forward," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said.

"In the start of the second half we gave it away. It was a gift. After that we tried to play a bit too hastily and it was very, very difficult for us. After the second goal it was harder to hold on to the ball and create chances."

For Favre and his players it is now back to the drawing board.

"There are periods of a season when things aren't top, top, top. It is what it is. We need to analyse and work hard to avoid and correct these errors."

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham Hotspur still have work to do to reach the next round of the Champions League despite a convincing 3-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in their last-16 first leg on Wednesday, said coach Mauricio Pochettino. Tottenham stunned the Germans with a goal two minutes after halftime from Korean forward Son Heung-min and struck twice late in the game through Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen, who was deployed in an unusual left wing back role, and substitute Fernando Llorente. "It is a massive, massive performance and effort from my players," Pochettino told reporters. "My players are heroes. They deserve a lot of praise because their effort this season is amazing. "It is only the first half of the tie -- 3-0 is a very good result, but we must go to Dortmund with the idea of winning. It is a very good result but there is a lot of work to do." The second leg is in Germany on March 5. Tottenham were on the backfoot in the first half against the Bundesliga leaders, who had conceded only two goals in the entire group stage and had the better scoring chances. The Argentine coach said he had to talk to his players at halftime to discuss ways of slowing their opponents down, with Dortmund's Jadon Sancho wreaking havoc down the wing. "I would not say the team were nervous but the second half was much better. At halftime we showed them a few situations that could have been different," Pochettino said. "We tried to help the team make the right decisions and perform in the best way. You need some luck, too. For me it is only the first leg, the first half but it is a very good result." The result equalled Dortmund's heaviest away defeat in the Champions League. The Germans also suffered a morale-sapping 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim last week in the Bundesliga after leading 3-0 and were also eliminated from the German Cup by Werder Bremen on penalties. "We played well in the first half, had a couple of chances, We defended really well and played well going forward," Dortmund coach Lucien Favre said. "In the start of the second half we gave it away. It was a gift. After that we tried to play a bit too hastily and it was very, very difficult for us. After the second goal it was harder to hold on to the ball and create chances." For Favre and his players it is now back to the drawing board. "There are periods of a season when things aren't top, top, top. It is what it is. We need to analyse and work hard to avoid and correct these errors."

Still work to do despite 3-0 win, says Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie.

Tottenham looked unfazed by the absence of injured captain Harry Kane and Dele Alli, scoring all three goals in a strong second half to take control of the tie and leave the Germans on the brink of a European exit.

Belgian Vertonghen notched his first goal in the Champions League with a well-timed volley in the 83rd minute after he had set up forward Son for a 47th minute lead. Substitute Fernando Llorente grabbed their third in the 86th, two minutes after coming on.

That was Son's ninth goal against Dortmund in 11 matches, with the South Korean, who played in the Bundesliga from 2010-15, having also scored twice in the competition's group stage last season.

"It was a fantastic second half," Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "The first half was difficult. It was a difficult game from the beginning.

"In the first half we played a little - not nervously - but not with the confidence. The second half was very, very good.

"There is still work to do."

Bundesliga leaders Dortmund, eliminated from the German Cup last week, were nowhere to be seen in the second half, with speedy teenager Jadon Sancho given no space to operate after the break. The return leg is on March 5.

"The first goal rattled us," Dortmund's Mario Goetze told reporters. "And then the double strike towards the end killed us off. We were good in the first half but this is very bitter. We now need to get back on track."

Before Wednesday, Tottenham had never won a home match in the knockout stage of the competition and Lucas Moura came close with a fine shot in the seventh minute.

Dortmund, themselves missing injured captain Marco Reus and top striker Paco Alcacer, gradually took control and had the better chances in the first half with Christian Pulisic firing onto keeper Hugo Lloris and the Frenchman saving a point-blank header from Dan-Axel Zagadou.

But the hosts changed the course of the game two minutes after the restart, pouncing on a defensive error and with Vertonghen whipping in a cross for Son, who has kept on scoring in Kane's absence, to tap in.

Dortmund, who had conceded just two goals in the group stage, tried to recover but found no way past the disciplined Tottenham backline.

They also looked to be running out of steam when Tottenham scored twice late in the game.

Vertonghen timed his run to perfection in the 83rd to kill off the game and Llorente gave them a big advantage for the second leg.

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie.

Defender Jan Vertonghen scored once and set up another goal for Son Heung-min as Tottenham Hotspur thumped Borussia Dortmund 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday to give them the clear edge following the first leg of their last 16 Champions League tie. Tottenham looked unfazed by the absence of injured captain Harry Kane and Dele Alli, scoring all three goals in a strong second half to take control of the tie and leave the Germans on the brink of a European exit. Belgian Vertonghen notched his first goal in the Champions League with a well-timed volley in the 83rd minute after he had set up forward Son for a 47th minute lead. Substitute Fernando Llorente grabbed their third in the 86th, two minutes after coming on. That was Son's ninth goal against Dortmund in 11 matches, with the South Korean, who played in the Bundesliga from 2010-15, having also scored twice in the competition's group stage last season. "It was a fantastic second half," Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters. "The first half was difficult. It was a difficult game from the beginning. "In the first half we played a little - not nervously - but not with the confidence. The second half was very, very good. "There is still work to do." Bundesliga leaders Dortmund, eliminated from the German Cup last week, were nowhere to be seen in the second half, with speedy teenager Jadon Sancho given no space to operate after the break. The return leg is on March 5. "The first goal rattled us," Dortmund's Mario Goetze told reporters. "And then the double strike towards the end killed us off. We were good in the first half but this is very bitter. We now need to get back on track." Before Wednesday, Tottenham had never won a home match in the knockout stage of the competition and Lucas Moura came close with a fine shot in the seventh minute. Dortmund, themselves missing injured captain Marco Reus and top striker Paco Alcacer, gradually took control and had the better chances in the first half with Christian Pulisic firing onto keeper Hugo Lloris and the Frenchman saving a point-blank header from Dan-Axel Zagadou. But the hosts changed the course of the game two minutes after the restart, pouncing on a defensive error and with Vertonghen whipping in a cross for Son, who has kept on scoring in Kane's absence, to tap in. Dortmund, who had conceded just two goals in the group stage, tried to recover but found no way past the disciplined Tottenham backline. They also looked to be running out of steam when Tottenham scored twice late in the game. Vertonghen timed his run to perfection in the 83rd to kill off the game and Llorente gave them a big advantage for the second leg.

Champions League: Vertonghen shines as Tottenham cruise past Dortmund 3-0

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League.

Just when it looked like Spurs might be heading for their first draw of the season, Son fired a hopeful shot from outside the area which somehow crept under goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to take them within four points of Liverpool who play on Monday.

It was Son's ninth goal in his past 10 appearances for Tottenham and a cruel blow for Newcastle who looked to have done enough to earn a point before the keeper's howler.

Spurs missed a series of chances with Lucas Moura putting a straightforward header wide from six yards, Erik Lamela heading on to the post and Christian Eriksen's flick somehow hooked off the line by Fabian Schar as Newcastle rode their luck.

But Mauricio Pochettino's side had twice grabbed late winners in their previous league games with Fulham and Watford and Son got lucky when the chance finally came his way.

Newcastle, with record signing Miguel Almiron ineligible, had their moments on the breakaway with Salomon Rondon also heading on to a post. But in the end it was a familiar outcome for the Geordies, who have not won at Wembley since 1955.

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-Min scored his second goal in four days as the London side eventually saw off battling Newcastle United 1-0 at Wembley and leapfrogged Manchester City into second place in the Premier League. Just when it looked like Spurs might be heading for their first draw of the season, Son fired a hopeful shot from outside the area which somehow crept under goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to take them within four points of Liverpool who play on Monday. It was Son's ninth goal in his past 10 appearances for Tottenham and a cruel blow for Newcastle who looked to have done enough to earn a point before the keeper's howler. Spurs missed a series of chances with Lucas Moura putting a straightforward header wide from six yards, Erik Lamela heading on to the post and Christian Eriksen's flick somehow hooked off the line by Fabian Schar as Newcastle rode their luck. But Mauricio Pochettino's side had twice grabbed late winners in their previous league games with Fulham and Watford and Son got lucky when the chance finally came his way. Newcastle, with record signing Miguel Almiron ineligible, had their moments on the breakaway with Salomon Rondon also heading on to a post. But in the end it was a familiar outcome for the Geordies, who have not won at Wembley since 1955.

Son Heung-Min strikes late as Tottenham beat Newcastle United to go second

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday.

Thursday's deadline day spending accounted for 50 million pounds ($65.49 million) -- bringing the month's spending to 180 million pounds.

That is less than half of January 2018 spending of 430 million pounds, which included Liverpool signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for a world record deal fee for a defender.

The top six Premier League clubs - Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United - accounted for 43 percent of expenditure, lower than January last year when this figure stood at 62 percent.

Tottenham are set to play the entire 2018-19 campaign without recruiting players, having failed to add new faces over the last two transfer windows.

Liverpool, United, Everton and Southampton also chose not to sign anyone in January.

"With central distributions to clubs now likely to remain around current levels until at least the end of the 2021-22 season, clubs are potentially taking a more long-term view to their transfer strategies," Tim Bridge, director in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said.

January spending was at 225 million pounds in 2011 but fell to 60 million pounds in the following year.

This year's biggest transfer move of the January window came from Chelsea, who spent 55 million pounds for Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund.

For the first time since 2005, Newcastle United broke their transfer record to sign Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron from Major League Soccer side Atlanta United for 20 million pounds.

Wolverhampton Wanderers completed the signing of Atletico Madrid full back Jonny Otto for 15 million pounds after a successful loan spell.

Defending champions Manchester City signed Hajduk Split midfielder Ante Palaversa for 7 million pounds and loaned him back to the Croatian side.

The Deloitte report also confirmed that clubs in the bottom six of the standings recorded spending of 20 million pounds, compared to 90 million pounds in the same period last year.

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday.

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday. Thursday's deadline day spending accounted for 50 million pounds ($65.49 million) -- bringing the month's spending to 180 million pounds. That is less than half of January 2018 spending of 430 million pounds, which included Liverpool signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for a world record deal fee for a defender. The top six Premier League clubs - Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United - accounted for 43 percent of expenditure, lower than January last year when this figure stood at 62 percent. Tottenham are set to play the entire 2018-19 campaign without recruiting players, having failed to add new faces over the last two transfer windows. Liverpool, United, Everton and Southampton also chose not to sign anyone in January. "With central distributions to clubs now likely to remain around current levels until at least the end of the 2021-22 season, clubs are potentially taking a more long-term view to their transfer strategies," Tim Bridge, director in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said. January spending was at 225 million pounds in 2011 but fell to 60 million pounds in the following year. This year's biggest transfer move of the January window came from Chelsea, who spent 55 million pounds for Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund. For the first time since 2005, Newcastle United broke their transfer record to sign Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron from Major League Soccer side Atlanta United for 20 million pounds. Wolverhampton Wanderers completed the signing of Atletico Madrid full back Jonny Otto for 15 million pounds after a successful loan spell. Defending champions Manchester City signed Hajduk Split midfielder Ante Palaversa for 7 million pounds and loaned him back to the Croatian side. The Deloitte report also confirmed that clubs in the bottom six of the standings recorded spending of 20 million pounds, compared to 90 million pounds in the same period last year.

Premier League January transfer spending fell for first time since 2012

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel.

Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout.

Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years.

Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on.

They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final.

After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard.

But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour.

"I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters.

"But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now.

"In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better."

Tails Up

Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control.

Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris.

With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard.

Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute.

The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura.

However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay.

It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight.

"We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said.

"We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City. Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel. Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout. Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years. Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on. They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final. After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard. But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour. "I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters. "But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now. "In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better." Tails Up Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control. Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris. With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard. Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute. The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura. However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay. It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight. "We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said. "We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea edge Spurs on penalties to reach League Cup final

In pics: Talking points from the Premier League weekend

David De Gea said the "real Manchester United" <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/return-of-encyclopedia-ferguson-massive-for-manchester-united-pochettino-189715">had been on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/return-of-encyclopedia-ferguson-massive-for-manchester-united-pochettino-189715">show</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/return-of-encyclopedia-ferguson-massive-for-manchester-united-pochettino-189715"> after his brilliant</a> goalkeeping display secured a 1-0 win over Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday.

The victory gave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his sixth successive win in all competitions, and fifth in a row in the Premier League, as United's caretaker manager since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho.

It also meant the former United striker had broken the record of the legendary Matt Busby, who won his first five games as the Old Trafford club's manager.

Marcus Rashford scored the only goal shortly before half-time but credit for the win belonged primarily to De Gea whose 11 saves were the most he had made in a top-flight match without conceding a goal.

But the 28-year-old played down his contribution to United's latest victory, a win that saw them draw level on points with fifth-placed Arsenal and instead praised the "happiness" Solskjaer has brought to the dressing room.

"We won the game against a top team, we controlled the first half but in the second half they had chances," De Gea told Sky Sports.

"I was feeling very well with the first two saves, it was a great game. I don't even remember some of the saves so I can't pick a best."

"The manager brought some happiness, the players are playing well and the team is very strong now." "This is the real Manchester United," he added.

Meanwhile, Rashford was in no doubt about how much De Gea had done against a Tottenham side who remained nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.

"It's a good responsibility to be the main striker but everyone has chipped in," said Rashford. "It was the keeper (who won us the game) today."

Meanwhile, Tottenham defender Ben Davies said Mauricio Pochettino's men should not be disheartened by a defeat that was largely down to De Gea's 'dream match' between the posts.

"David de Gea has pulled off three or four brilliant saves, and on another day, they go in," Davies said.

"It is disappointing but it wasn't the worst performance. The boys up front are slotting them away most weeks, but today it wasn't their day." 
&nbsp;

David De Gea said the "real Manchester United" had been on show after his brilliant goalkeeping display secured a 1-0 win over Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday. The victory gave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his sixth successive win in all competitions, and fifth in a row in the Premier League, as United's caretaker manager since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho.

David De Gea said the "real Manchester United" had been on show after his brilliant goalkeeping display secured a 1-0 win over Tottenham at Wembley on Sunday. The victory gave Ole Gunnar Solskjaer his sixth successive win in all competitions, and fifth in a row in the Premier League, as United's caretaker manager since replacing the sacked Jose Mourinho. It also meant the former United striker had broken the record of the legendary Matt Busby, who won his first five games as the Old Trafford club's manager. Marcus Rashford scored the only goal shortly before half-time but credit for the win belonged primarily to De Gea whose 11 saves were the most he had made in a top-flight match without conceding a goal. But the 28-year-old played down his contribution to United's latest victory, a win that saw them draw level on points with fifth-placed Arsenal and instead praised the "happiness" Solskjaer has brought to the dressing room. "We won the game against a top team, we controlled the first half but in the second half they had chances," De Gea told Sky Sports. "I was feeling very well with the first two saves, it was a great game. I don't even remember some of the saves so I can't pick a best." "The manager brought some happiness, the players are playing well and the team is very strong now." "This is the real Manchester United," he added. Meanwhile, Rashford was in no doubt about how much De Gea had done against a Tottenham side who remained nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. "It's a good responsibility to be the main striker but everyone has chipped in," said Rashford. "It was the keeper (who won us the game) today." Meanwhile, Tottenham defender Ben Davies said Mauricio Pochettino's men should not be disheartened by a defeat that was largely down to De Gea's 'dream match' between the posts. "David de Gea has pulled off three or four brilliant saves, and on another day, they go in," Davies said. "It is disappointing but it wasn't the worst performance. The boys up front are slotting them away most weeks, but today it wasn't their day."

This is the real Manchester United, says De Gea as Rashford's goal topples Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said he wants to stay at the Premier League club for 20 years and maybe finish his career in north London, the BBC has reported.

Since joining from Southampton in 2014 the 46-year-old Argentine, touted as a future Real Madrid or Manchester United boss by Spanish and British media, has made Spurs a top-four side who regularly compete in the Champions League.

"I hope, or I wish, to be here 20 years and decide to leave or to finish my career here," Pochettino was quoted as saying.

"I am so focused here, and want to help the club to achieve what the club want to be in history."

He added: "It would be fantastic. I am so happy to be here. I am so happy to work in that pressure. Why not?"

Pochettino hopes to emulate the longevity of former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who was in charge at Tottenham's London rivals for 22 years before leaving at the end of last season.

"But I don't know because I need to ask (Wenger) one day, if I have the possibility, if he is so happy in the way that he finished," he said. "What I saw from my point of view, it was so unfair how the people treated him."

Pochettino has yet to win a trophy at Spurs but they are still in four competitions this season having reached the Champions League last 16, the League Cup semi-finals -- where they host Chelsea on Tuesday -- and the FA Cup fourth round.

They are in third place in the league, six points behind leaders Liverpool, and host Manchester United on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said he wants to stay at the Premier League club for 20 years and maybe finish his career in north London, the BBC has reported.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said he wants to stay at the Premier League club for 20 years and maybe finish his career in north London, the BBC has reported. Since joining from Southampton in 2014 the 46-year-old Argentine, touted as a future Real Madrid or Manchester United boss by Spanish and British media, has made Spurs a top-four side who regularly compete in the Champions League. "I hope, or I wish, to be here 20 years and decide to leave or to finish my career here," Pochettino was quoted as saying. "I am so focused here, and want to help the club to achieve what the club want to be in history." He added: "It would be fantastic. I am so happy to be here. I am so happy to work in that pressure. Why not?" Pochettino hopes to emulate the longevity of former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who was in charge at Tottenham's London rivals for 22 years before leaving at the end of last season. "But I don't know because I need to ask (Wenger) one day, if I have the possibility, if he is so happy in the way that he finished," he said. "What I saw from my point of view, it was so unfair how the people treated him." Pochettino has yet to win a trophy at Spurs but they are still in four competitions this season having reached the Champions League last 16, the League Cup semi-finals -- where they host Chelsea on Tuesday -- and the FA Cup fourth round. They are in third place in the league, six points behind leaders Liverpool, and host Manchester United on Sunday.

Mauricio Pochettino wants to be at Spurs for '20 years'

Dele Alli has admitted his Tottenham Hotspur team were guilty of complacency in the shock defeat by Wolves that derailed their Premier League title bid.

But the England midfielder has insisted there will be no repeat of that error as Mauricio Pochettino's team chase silverware on four fronts in 2019.

That task will be made harder by the impending loss of in-form South Korean international Son Heung-min, who will be absent for a month as he represents his country at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

But having ended 2018 with that shock 3-1 home loss to Wolves in the league, Spurs responded with a 3-0 victory at Cardiff and Friday's 7-0 FA Cup success at fourth-tier Tranmere Rovers.

That performance on Merseyside suggested Alli and his team-mates had learnt a painful lesson from the Wolves defeat.

"I don't think the manager needed to say too much after that, to be honest, as players we were disappointed," he said.

"We had been in great form before that and maybe we got a little bit carried away with ourselves.

"They're a fantastic team and maybe we just thought we would win the game. But you can't do that if you want to win things and be a top, top team.

"You have to be clinical and ruthless in every game and you can't afford to take your foot off the gas and we all had a look at ourselves after and we know we can't let that happen."

In the short term, Tottenham move onto a League Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Tuesday and also have the Champions League last 16, against Borussia Dortmund,

to look forward to next month.

'Unbelievable' Son

But after a Sunday, January 13th, home league game with a revitalised Manchester United, Spurs will face that schedule without Son who was inspirational at Tranmere where he scored one and set up two goals in a nine-minute spell at the start of the second half.

"'Sonny' leaving any team would be a great miss because he's a great player but, at the same time, we've got players that have been working hard and are ready to come in," said Alli.

"He's obviously in great form and it will be sad to see him go but he will be back and we just keep going." Alli added: "I think seeing him every day in training, playing with him in games, you can see the quality he has.

"He's an unbelievable player, with both feet, and has an eye for goals and he can produce magic out of nothing. So no one's really surprised to see him in this form because he is a fantastic player and has amazing qualities.

"But who knows? Lucas (Moura) is a fantastic player as well, or whoever the manager decodes to put in. It will change for different games, the team always does, and everyone has been working hard."

Alli's own form heading into the new year capped off a memorable 2018 in which he emerged as one of the biggest stars of the English game -- a year he is keen to build upon in 2019 as he attempts to end Spurs' decade-plus wait for a trophy.

"As players you want to get as far into the cup as we can, hopefully win it. We want to win trophies, that's our aim and we've been playing well, we've been getting quite far in recent years without quite having the finishing product at the end and not getting over the line," he said.

"But it's about time for us, as players, we need to start winning things." As for his individual aims, Alli said: "I want to keep improving as a player and as a person as well but I'm not going to stop.

"I'm going to keep learning and try to be better than I was last year and the year before that."&nbsp;

Dele Alli has admitted his Tottenham Hotspur team were guilty of complacency in the shock defeat by Wolves that derailed their Premier League title bid. But the England midfielder has insisted there will be no repeat of that error as Mauricio Pochettino's team chase silverware on four fronts in 2019.

Dele Alli has admitted his Tottenham Hotspur team were guilty of complacency in the shock defeat by Wolves that derailed their Premier League title bid. But the England midfielder has insisted there will be no repeat of that error as Mauricio Pochettino's team chase silverware on four fronts in 2019. That task will be made harder by the impending loss of in-form South Korean international Son Heung-min, who will be absent for a month as he represents his country at the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates. But having ended 2018 with that shock 3-1 home loss to Wolves in the league, Spurs responded with a 3-0 victory at Cardiff and Friday's 7-0 FA Cup success at fourth-tier Tranmere Rovers. That performance on Merseyside suggested Alli and his team-mates had learnt a painful lesson from the Wolves defeat. "I don't think the manager needed to say too much after that, to be honest, as players we were disappointed," he said. "We had been in great form before that and maybe we got a little bit carried away with ourselves. "They're a fantastic team and maybe we just thought we would win the game. But you can't do that if you want to win things and be a top, top team. "You have to be clinical and ruthless in every game and you can't afford to take your foot off the gas and we all had a look at ourselves after and we know we can't let that happen." In the short term, Tottenham move onto a League Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Tuesday and also have the Champions League last 16, against Borussia Dortmund, to look forward to next month. 'Unbelievable' Son But after a Sunday, January 13th, home league game with a revitalised Manchester United, Spurs will face that schedule without Son who was inspirational at Tranmere where he scored one and set up two goals in a nine-minute spell at the start of the second half. "'Sonny' leaving any team would be a great miss because he's a great player but, at the same time, we've got players that have been working hard and are ready to come in," said Alli. "He's obviously in great form and it will be sad to see him go but he will be back and we just keep going." Alli added: "I think seeing him every day in training, playing with him in games, you can see the quality he has. "He's an unbelievable player, with both feet, and has an eye for goals and he can produce magic out of nothing. So no one's really surprised to see him in this form because he is a fantastic player and has amazing qualities. "But who knows? Lucas (Moura) is a fantastic player as well, or whoever the manager decodes to put in. It will change for different games, the team always does, and everyone has been working hard." Alli's own form heading into the new year capped off a memorable 2018 in which he emerged as one of the biggest stars of the English game -- a year he is keen to build upon in 2019 as he attempts to end Spurs' decade-plus wait for a trophy. "As players you want to get as far into the cup as we can, hopefully win it. We want to win trophies, that's our aim and we've been playing well, we've been getting quite far in recent years without quite having the finishing product at the end and not getting over the line," he said. "But it's about time for us, as players, we need to start winning things." As for his individual aims, Alli said: "I want to keep improving as a player and as a person as well but I'm not going to stop. "I'm going to keep learning and try to be better than I was last year and the year before that."

Dele Alli vows Spurs 'won't get carried away again' as Son absence looms