France must wait to claim a place at Euro 2020 after the world champions were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Turkey in a high-octane qualifying game on Monday.

Turkey's Kaan Ayhan equalised eight minutes from time after France substitute Olivier Giroud opened the scoring in the 76th as the visitors stayed top of Group H with 19 points from eight games, ahead of Les Bleus due to a 2-0 win in Konya last June.

Iceland is third on 15 points after goals by Arnor Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson earned a 2-0 home victory over Andorra, with Albania fourth on 12 points following a 4-0 away win against Moldova.

French police were on high alert after President Emmanuel Macron said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/day-5-of-turkeys-military-operation-in-syria-255702">Turkey's military operation </a>against Kurdish forces in Syria could lead to an “unsustainable humanitarian situation” and threatened to “help the Islamic State group re-emerge in the region".

With up to 40,000 Turkey fans expected at the stadium, some 1,000 police officers were on duty in and around the Stade de France to prevent potential crowd trouble, but the atmosphere remained peaceful throughout the evening.

"We could have avoided that goal," France coach Didier Deschamps said. "We did everything we needed to win that game, we had the chances, they didn't, but it is what it is.

"It's a good point. We'll have to finish the job in November," he added, saying Turkey, who have picked up four points against France, deserved to top the group.

"We are the two best teams in the group. Qualifiers are always complicated, it's a long road. We should have been more efficient. They defended a lot and they deserve to be where they are."

France take on Moldova and Turkey host Iceland in the next round of matches in November.

The world champions were still without injured goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, striker Kylian Mbappe and midfielder Paul Pogba, and Wissam Ben Yedder started up front in place of Giroud, who paid for his lack of playing time with Chelsea.

France were the most dangerous side as Turkey struggled to cope with the pace of Kingsley Coman but the visiting defence, which had conceded only two goals in qualifying so far, held firm.

France midfielder Moussa Sissoko's low shot was blocked by keeper Mert Gunok and Antoine Griezmann's curled shot went just wide as Les Bleus piled on the pressure.

Turkey, however, created a chance to opening the scoring on the hour only for Burak Yilmaz to sky his attempt over the bar at the end of a quick counter-attack.

With Ben Yedder struggling to find space, Deschamps replaced him with Giroud in the 72nd minute and it the substitute took four minutes to make an impact, heading home Griezmann's corner kick.

The hosts' joy, however, was short-lived as Turkey levelled six minutes later when Ayhan nodded in a free kick.

France must wait to claim a place at Euro 2020 after the world champions were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Turkey in a high-octane qualifying game on Monday. Turkey's Kaan Ayhan equalised eight minutes from time after France substitute Olivier Giroud opened the scoring in the 76th as the visitors stayed top of Group H with 19 points from eight games, ahead of Les Bleus due to a 2-0 win in Konya last June.

France must wait to claim a place at Euro 2020 after the world champions were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Turkey in a high-octane qualifying game on Monday. Turkey's Kaan Ayhan equalised eight minutes from time after France substitute Olivier Giroud opened the scoring in the 76th as the visitors stayed top of Group H with 19 points from eight games, ahead of Les Bleus due to a 2-0 win in Konya last June. Iceland is third on 15 points after goals by Arnor Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson earned a 2-0 home victory over Andorra, with Albania fourth on 12 points following a 4-0 away win against Moldova. French police were on high alert after President Emmanuel Macron said Turkey's military operation against Kurdish forces in Syria could lead to an “unsustainable humanitarian situation” and threatened to “help the Islamic State group re-emerge in the region". With up to 40,000 Turkey fans expected at the stadium, some 1,000 police officers were on duty in and around the Stade de France to prevent potential crowd trouble, but the atmosphere remained peaceful throughout the evening. "We could have avoided that goal," France coach Didier Deschamps said. "We did everything we needed to win that game, we had the chances, they didn't, but it is what it is. "It's a good point. We'll have to finish the job in November," he added, saying Turkey, who have picked up four points against France, deserved to top the group. "We are the two best teams in the group. Qualifiers are always complicated, it's a long road. We should have been more efficient. They defended a lot and they deserve to be where they are." France take on Moldova and Turkey host Iceland in the next round of matches in November. The world champions were still without injured goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, striker Kylian Mbappe and midfielder Paul Pogba, and Wissam Ben Yedder started up front in place of Giroud, who paid for his lack of playing time with Chelsea. France were the most dangerous side as Turkey struggled to cope with the pace of Kingsley Coman but the visiting defence, which had conceded only two goals in qualifying so far, held firm. France midfielder Moussa Sissoko's low shot was blocked by keeper Mert Gunok and Antoine Griezmann's curled shot went just wide as Les Bleus piled on the pressure. Turkey, however, created a chance to opening the scoring on the hour only for Burak Yilmaz to sky his attempt over the bar at the end of a quick counter-attack. With Ben Yedder struggling to find space, Deschamps replaced him with Giroud in the 72nd minute and it the substitute took four minutes to make an impact, heading home Griezmann's corner kick. The hosts' joy, however, was short-lived as Turkey levelled six minutes later when Ayhan nodded in a free kick.

Euro 2020 qualifier: Turkey hold world champions France

England bounced back from their first tournament qualifying defeat for ten&nbsp;years with a 6-0 thrashing of toothless Bulgaria on Monday in a Euro 2020 Group A clash marred by racist incidents in the first half that stopped the game.

The match at the Vasil Levski stadium was temporarily halted by the referee in the first half under a three-step <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-trust-uefa-to-deal-with-racist-abuse-southgate-255129">UEFA protocol</a> to tackle racist abuse from the crowd.

Racist chanting was heard from the stands and reported by England players to manager Gareth Southgate, with the referee informed and a public announcement made on two occasions.

"The officials were onto everything very quickly," said Southgate. "We reported everything very quickly when we heard things."

"I explained to the players that if anything else did happen in the second half we would be coming off. We all saw the second half was calmer and that allowed our players to do their talking with the football."

Most of the Bulgaria players and coach Krasimir Balakov said they had not heard any abuse of the England team.

"It's a very delicate subject," Balakov told reporters. "I do not think there is a single person in Bulgaria who would say that racism is something pleasant."

"But at the same time, it is very strange how this topic is interpreted in football. I have heard absolutely nothing (during the game)."

On the pitch, Ross Barkley and Raheem Sterling both netted twice after Marcus Rashford got the opener and captain Harry Kane finished off the rout, Bulgaria's heaviest home defeat, as the visitors recovered from a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-kane-says-englands-defeat-to-czech-republic-is-a-wakeup-call-255480"> 2-1 loss to the Czech Republic</a> on Friday.

England, who moved closer to a place at Euro 2020, are top of the group with 15 points from six games, three ahead of the Czechs and four in front of Kosovo who beat Montenegro 2-0.

England debutant Tyrone Mings was an early victim of racist abuse, turning towards the fans when chants were aimed in his direction. Croatian referee Ivan Bebek stopped the game in the 28th minute after Raheem Sterling was a target for abuse.

A public announcement condemned the racist abuse before stating that the match would be abandoned if it continued.

The game was stopped again in the 43rd minute but resumed after the referee consulted England manager Gareth Southgate.

A group of black-clad Bulgarian fans, some of whom were making right-wing salutes, were moved from an area behind the dugout with home team captain Ivelin Popov trying to appeal to the supporters in a heated discussion at halftime.

Popov did not even go to the dressing room, attempting to explain to fans that their behaviour was unacceptable.

European soccer governing body UEFA had ordered the Bulgarian Football Union to partially close the Vasil Levski national stadium for England's visit after supporters were found guilty of racist behaviour in matches earlier this year.

On the pitch, Barkley struck twice after Rashford score in the seventh minute as Southgate’s side highlighted the gap in quality with the hosts before Sterling netted before halftime.

England’s victory was rounded off by Sterling's second goal midway through the second half and a cool finish from Kane five minutes from the end against bottom side Bulgaria.

"We have no class," coach Krasimir Balakov said of his side. "I understand all the people who have bought tickets and wanted something different, but against this England team, with this dynamic, and with these players that cost millions...".

The game was being played in front of a reduced crowd after UEFA ordered a partial stadium closure due to racist behaviour by Bulgarian supporters in June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo.

Racism was a major talking point ahead of the game, with England striker Tammy Abraham indicating last week that the players could act as a group and leave the pitch if subjected to abuse.

Bulgarian supporters made monkey chants at visiting black players when England last travelled to Sofia for a European qualifier in 2011, prompting UEFA to fine the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) 40,000 euros.&nbsp;

England bounced back from their first tournament qualifying defeat for ten years with a 6-0 thrashing of toothless Bulgaria on Monday in a Euro 2020 Group A clash marred by racist incidents in the first half that stopped the game.

England bounced back from their first tournament qualifying defeat for ten years with a 6-0 thrashing of toothless Bulgaria on Monday in a Euro 2020 Group A clash marred by racist incidents in the first half that stopped the game. The match at the Vasil Levski stadium was temporarily halted by the referee in the first half under a three-step UEFA protocol to tackle racist abuse from the crowd. Racist chanting was heard from the stands and reported by England players to manager Gareth Southgate, with the referee informed and a public announcement made on two occasions. "The officials were onto everything very quickly," said Southgate. "We reported everything very quickly when we heard things." "I explained to the players that if anything else did happen in the second half we would be coming off. We all saw the second half was calmer and that allowed our players to do their talking with the football." Most of the Bulgaria players and coach Krasimir Balakov said they had not heard any abuse of the England team. "It's a very delicate subject," Balakov told reporters. "I do not think there is a single person in Bulgaria who would say that racism is something pleasant." "But at the same time, it is very strange how this topic is interpreted in football. I have heard absolutely nothing (during the game)." On the pitch, Ross Barkley and Raheem Sterling both netted twice after Marcus Rashford got the opener and captain Harry Kane finished off the rout, Bulgaria's heaviest home defeat, as the visitors recovered from a 2-1 loss to the Czech Republic on Friday. England, who moved closer to a place at Euro 2020, are top of the group with 15 points from six games, three ahead of the Czechs and four in front of Kosovo who beat Montenegro 2-0. England debutant Tyrone Mings was an early victim of racist abuse, turning towards the fans when chants were aimed in his direction. Croatian referee Ivan Bebek stopped the game in the 28th minute after Raheem Sterling was a target for abuse. A public announcement condemned the racist abuse before stating that the match would be abandoned if it continued. The game was stopped again in the 43rd minute but resumed after the referee consulted England manager Gareth Southgate. A group of black-clad Bulgarian fans, some of whom were making right-wing salutes, were moved from an area behind the dugout with home team captain Ivelin Popov trying to appeal to the supporters in a heated discussion at halftime. Popov did not even go to the dressing room, attempting to explain to fans that their behaviour was unacceptable. European soccer governing body UEFA had ordered the Bulgarian Football Union to partially close the Vasil Levski national stadium for England's visit after supporters were found guilty of racist behaviour in matches earlier this year. On the pitch, Barkley struck twice after Rashford score in the seventh minute as Southgate’s side highlighted the gap in quality with the hosts before Sterling netted before halftime. England’s victory was rounded off by Sterling's second goal midway through the second half and a cool finish from Kane five minutes from the end against bottom side Bulgaria. "We have no class," coach Krasimir Balakov said of his side. "I understand all the people who have bought tickets and wanted something different, but against this England team, with this dynamic, and with these players that cost millions...". The game was being played in front of a reduced crowd after UEFA ordered a partial stadium closure due to racist behaviour by Bulgarian supporters in June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo. Racism was a major talking point ahead of the game, with England striker Tammy Abraham indicating last week that the players could act as a group and leave the pitch if subjected to abuse. Bulgarian supporters made monkey chants at visiting black players when England last travelled to Sofia for a European qualifier in 2011, prompting UEFA to fine the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) 40,000 euros.

Euro 2020 qualifier: England thrash Bulgaria as first half halted over racist chants

Racist abuse aimed at England players during a match against Bulgaria on Monday was vile and European football's governing body UEFA must do more to tackle such behaviour, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Tuesday.

The Euro 2020 qualifier between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-bulgaria-after-game-halted-over-racist-abuse-255998">Bulgaria and England</a> in Sofia was twice halted by the referee after monkey noises and chants from the crowd were aimed at England's black players.

"The racism we saw and heard last night was vile and has no place in football or anywhere else," Johnson's spokesman said, adding there needed to be tough penalties in place to act as a real deterrent.

"UEFA need to face up to facts - this stain on football is not being adequately dealt with. Racism and discrimination must be driven out of football once and for all."

The British government will write to UEFA on Tuesday to ask for an investigation to be conducted swiftly, he said.

Racist abuse aimed at England players during a match against Bulgaria on Monday was vile and European football's governing body UEFA must do more to tackle such behaviour, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Tuesday.

Racist abuse aimed at England players during a match against Bulgaria on Monday was vile and European football's governing body UEFA must do more to tackle such behaviour, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman said on Tuesday. The Euro 2020 qualifier between Bulgaria and England in Sofia was twice halted by the referee after monkey noises and chants from the crowd were aimed at England's black players. "The racism we saw and heard last night was vile and has no place in football or anywhere else," Johnson's spokesman said, adding there needed to be tough penalties in place to act as a real deterrent. "UEFA need to face up to facts - this stain on football is not being adequately dealt with. Racism and discrimination must be driven out of football once and for all." The British government will write to UEFA on Tuesday to ask for an investigation to be conducted swiftly, he said.

UEFA must do more to tackle 'vile' racism - UK PM Boris Johnson's spokesman

Anti-racism organisation Kick It Out has criticised European football's governing body UEFA for failing to abandon Monday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-thrash-bulgaria-after-game-halted-over-racist-abuse-255998">Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria</a> after England's black players were subjected to monkey chants.

The game was twice halted in the first half, first when England manager Gareth Southgate informed the UEFA delegate about incidents and a public announcement was made.

The abuse continued and the Group A match, which England went on to win 6-0, was again temporarily suspended by the referee under a three-step UEFA protocol for tackling abuse.

UEFA said it would announce possible disciplinary proceedings later on Tuesday or on Wednesday once it had received full reports from match officials.

Around 50 black-clad Bulgarian fans, some of whom were seen making Nazi salutes, left the stadium before halftime and the second half was completed without further stoppages.

Kick It Out said it was "sickened by the disgusting racist abuse" and suggested UEFA should have taken stronger action.

"We are encouraged that the protocol was initially enforced by the match officials, but UEFA must explain why players weren't sent to the dressing room during Step Two, as is clearly stated in the rules," a statement read.

"TV footage also clearly shows that racist abuse continued in the second half, so it is unacceptable that Step Three was not enforced. This match should have been abandoned by the officials.

"It's now time for UEFA to step up and show some leadership. For far too long, they have consistently failed to take effective action."

The first step of UEFA's protocol was enacted after 28 minutes when England defender Tyrone Mings was subjected to abuse and an announcement was made calling on supporters to stop using racist chants.

The second step, according to UEFA's protocol, is for the players to be sent to the dressing rooms for a specified period.

This was never implemented in Sofia although UEFA said there had been a discussion with the England bench after the second incident and they had agreed to continue as it was so close to halftime.

Step three, according to UEFA, is "after consultation, abandon the match if the discriminatory behaviour still does not cease or breaks out again."

UEFA is yet to comment officially on the incidents.

The threat of racism had dominated the buildup to the game and part of the stadium was empty after UEFA punished Bulgaria for racist behaviour by fans during June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo.

Bulgarian supporters also made monkey chants at visiting black players when England last travelled to Sofia for a European qualifier in 2011, prompting UEFA to fine the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) $44,072.

Kick It Out said the punishments were futile.

"The fact Bulgaria are already hosting this game with a partial stadium closure for racist abuse shows that UEFA's sanctions are not fit for purpose," it said.

"There can be no more pitiful fines or short stadium bans. If UEFA care at all about tackling discrimination -&nbsp;and if the Equal Game campaign means anything -&nbsp;then points deductions and tournament expulsion must follow."

Anti-racism organisation Kick It Out has criticised European football's governing body UEFA for failing to abandon Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria after England's black players were subjected to monkey chants.

Anti-racism organisation Kick It Out has criticised European football's governing body UEFA for failing to abandon Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier in Bulgaria after England's black players were subjected to monkey chants. The game was twice halted in the first half, first when England manager Gareth Southgate informed the UEFA delegate about incidents and a public announcement was made. The abuse continued and the Group A match, which England went on to win 6-0, was again temporarily suspended by the referee under a three-step UEFA protocol for tackling abuse. UEFA said it would announce possible disciplinary proceedings later on Tuesday or on Wednesday once it had received full reports from match officials. Around 50 black-clad Bulgarian fans, some of whom were seen making Nazi salutes, left the stadium before halftime and the second half was completed without further stoppages. Kick It Out said it was "sickened by the disgusting racist abuse" and suggested UEFA should have taken stronger action. "We are encouraged that the protocol was initially enforced by the match officials, but UEFA must explain why players weren't sent to the dressing room during Step Two, as is clearly stated in the rules," a statement read. "TV footage also clearly shows that racist abuse continued in the second half, so it is unacceptable that Step Three was not enforced. This match should have been abandoned by the officials. "It's now time for UEFA to step up and show some leadership. For far too long, they have consistently failed to take effective action." The first step of UEFA's protocol was enacted after 28 minutes when England defender Tyrone Mings was subjected to abuse and an announcement was made calling on supporters to stop using racist chants. The second step, according to UEFA's protocol, is for the players to be sent to the dressing rooms for a specified period. This was never implemented in Sofia although UEFA said there had been a discussion with the England bench after the second incident and they had agreed to continue as it was so close to halftime. Step three, according to UEFA, is "after consultation, abandon the match if the discriminatory behaviour still does not cease or breaks out again." UEFA is yet to comment officially on the incidents. The threat of racism had dominated the buildup to the game and part of the stadium was empty after UEFA punished Bulgaria for racist behaviour by fans during June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo. Bulgarian supporters also made monkey chants at visiting black players when England last travelled to Sofia for a European qualifier in 2011, prompting UEFA to fine the Bulgarian Football Union (BFU) $44,072. Kick It Out said the punishments were futile. "The fact Bulgaria are already hosting this game with a partial stadium closure for racist abuse shows that UEFA's sanctions are not fit for purpose," it said. "There can be no more pitiful fines or short stadium bans. If UEFA care at all about tackling discrimination - and if the Equal Game campaign means anything - then points deductions and tournament expulsion must follow."

Euro 2020 qualifier: Anti-racism body says England game should have been abandoned

England&nbsp;manager Gareth&nbsp;Southgate&nbsp;has said his team will adhere to&nbsp;UEFA's protocols if they are subjected to&nbsp;racist&nbsp;abuse&nbsp;in their Euro 2020 qualifiers but stated that his priority would be to provide a safe environment for his players.

UEFA's three-step protocol if players are racially&nbsp;abused involves the referee first halting play and making an announcement to the supporters to immediately stop&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour.

The second step sees the match suspended for some time and both teams are sent to the dressing room if the&nbsp;abuse&nbsp;continues, with another warning given to the fans. In the third and final step, the referee decides to abandon the match.

"There is the&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;process and we have to have faith in that process. Then everything else is hypothetical,"&nbsp;Southgate&nbsp;told reporters on Thursday.

"We want the players to be able to concentrate on football, they want to be judged on football. What I've got to do is provide a secure, safe environment for them to play."

England&nbsp;play the Czech Republic on Friday and Bulgaria on Monday.&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;ordered the partial closure of Bulgaria's Vasil Levski stadium after&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour by their supporters in June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo.

England&nbsp;striker Tammy Abraham indicated this week that the players could act as a group and leave the pitch if subjected to&nbsp;abuse, regardless of&nbsp;UEFA's protocol.

In response, Bulgarian soccer chief Borislav Mihaylov said&nbsp;England&nbsp;players who walk off the pitch should face punishment if they breach&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;protocol and&nbsp;Southgate&nbsp;tried to defuse the situation.

"We are not trying to create a situation at all, far from it,"&nbsp;Southgate&nbsp;said. "We're all hoping that over the next 72 hours, we're just talking about two football matches.

"I think both countries would have a strong desire for that and I have to say again, we don't look at other countries in a way that we don't shine a mirror on our own."

Southgate&nbsp;was referring to a National League game last month between Hartlepool and Dover which was suspended for more than 10 minutes after alleged&nbsp;racist&nbsp;abuse&nbsp;from the supporters.

"What happened in Hartlepool a couple of weeks ago was probably worse than things I've seen or heard about in many other countries in the world,"&nbsp;Southgate&nbsp;added. "So, I think we have to be very careful in how we cover everything."

England, who have a game in hand, are top of Group A with 12 points from four games. The Czech Republic is second with nine points and Bulgaria bottom with two.

England manager Gareth Southgate has said his team will adhere to UEFA's protocols if they are subjected to racist abuse in their Euro 2020 qualifiers but stated that his priority would be to provide a safe environment for his players.

England manager Gareth Southgate has said his team will adhere to UEFA's protocols if they are subjected to racist abuse in their Euro 2020 qualifiers but stated that his priority would be to provide a safe environment for his players. UEFA's three-step protocol if players are racially abused involves the referee first halting play and making an announcement to the supporters to immediately stop racist behaviour. The second step sees the match suspended for some time and both teams are sent to the dressing room if the abuse continues, with another warning given to the fans. In the third and final step, the referee decides to abandon the match. "There is the UEFA process and we have to have faith in that process. Then everything else is hypothetical," Southgate told reporters on Thursday. "We want the players to be able to concentrate on football, they want to be judged on football. What I've got to do is provide a secure, safe environment for them to play." England play the Czech Republic on Friday and Bulgaria on Monday. UEFA ordered the partial closure of Bulgaria's Vasil Levski stadium after racist behaviour by their supporters in June's qualifiers against the Czechs and Kosovo. England striker Tammy Abraham indicated this week that the players could act as a group and leave the pitch if subjected to abuse, regardless of UEFA's protocol. In response, Bulgarian soccer chief Borislav Mihaylov said England players who walk off the pitch should face punishment if they breach UEFA protocol and Southgate tried to defuse the situation. "We are not trying to create a situation at all, far from it," Southgate said. "We're all hoping that over the next 72 hours, we're just talking about two football matches. "I think both countries would have a strong desire for that and I have to say again, we don't look at other countries in a way that we don't shine a mirror on our own." Southgate was referring to a National League game last month between Hartlepool and Dover which was suspended for more than 10 minutes after alleged racist abuse from the supporters. "What happened in Hartlepool a couple of weeks ago was probably worse than things I've seen or heard about in many other countries in the world," Southgate added. "So, I think we have to be very careful in how we cover everything." England, who have a game in hand, are top of Group A with 12 points from four games. The Czech Republic is second with nine points and Bulgaria bottom with two.

Have faith in UEFA to deal with racist abuse: England coach Southgate

Serie A club&nbsp;Lazio&nbsp;on Tuesday vowed they would try to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;and then&nbsp;take&nbsp;action&nbsp;against&nbsp;fans&nbsp;responsible for&nbsp;racist&nbsp;chants&nbsp;against&nbsp;Rennes in their Europa League match last week.

Lazio&nbsp;has been charged by UEFA&nbsp;over&nbsp;alleged&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour which could result in the Italian club having sections of their stadium closed.

"Lazio&nbsp;will defend its reputation and tradition, the club announces that it has immediately activated the initiatives aimed at identifying those responsible and will rigorously apply the code of ethics to remove those responsible from the stadium," the club said in a statement.&nbsp;

Lazio&nbsp;added that the club would "join any legal&nbsp;action&nbsp;taken&nbsp;against&nbsp;those who, following the investigation with police, are found to be responsible".

Lazio&nbsp;fans&nbsp;also made Fascist salutes during the 2-1 home win&nbsp;over&nbsp;Rennes.

The Serie A played&nbsp;against&nbsp;Rennes with a stand closed as punishment for fascist salutes by&nbsp;fans&nbsp;in a game with Sevilla last season.

UEFA will hand down their verdict on October 17.

Serie A club Lazio on Tuesday vowed they would try to identify and then take action against fans responsible for racist chants against Rennes in their Europa League match last week.

Serie A club Lazio on Tuesday vowed they would try to identify and then take action against fans responsible for racist chants against Rennes in their Europa League match last week. Lazio has been charged by UEFA over alleged racist behaviour which could result in the Italian club having sections of their stadium closed. "Lazio will defend its reputation and tradition, the club announces that it has immediately activated the initiatives aimed at identifying those responsible and will rigorously apply the code of ethics to remove those responsible from the stadium," the club said in a statement. Lazio added that the club would "join any legal action taken against those who, following the investigation with police, are found to be responsible". Lazio fans also made Fascist salutes during the 2-1 home win over Rennes. The Serie A played against Rennes with a stand closed as punishment for fascist salutes by fans in a game with Sevilla last season. UEFA will hand down their verdict on October 17.

Lazio vow to identify, take action against fans over racist chants

American&nbsp;forward&nbsp;Jozy&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;will miss the first two&nbsp;matches&nbsp;of the CONCACAF&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;League&nbsp;after suffering an injury during the Major&nbsp;League&nbsp;Soccer regular-season finale, the US&nbsp;men's national team said on Tuesday.

Altidore&nbsp;was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus&nbsp;Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah.

While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US&nbsp;team said in a statement that&nbsp;Altidore&nbsp;would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada.

US&nbsp;Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up.

The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-uefa-chief-michel-platini-arrested-in-2022-qatar-world-cup-probe-228291">FIFA corruption scandal</a>.

The group&nbsp;matches&nbsp;will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday.

American forward Jozy Altidore will miss the first two matches of the CONCACAF Nations League after suffering an injury during the Major League Soccer regular-season finale, the US men's national team said on Tuesday. Altidore was substituted in Toronto FC's match against Columbus Crew on Sunday in the 70th minute after landing awkwardly following a challenge from Jonathan Mensah. While the extent of the injury is unknown, the US team said in a statement that Altidore would not play on Friday in Washington against Cuba or on Oct. 15 in Toronto against Canada. US Soccer also confirmed that a replacement would not be called up. The competition, which is similar to that started by UEFA in 2018 with the aim of cutting down on meaningless friendlies, is part of a broad makeover by a confederation seeking to win back the confidence of fans after it was ravaged by the FIFA corruption scandal. The group matches will wrap up in six weeks with the finals taking place in June.

US forward Altidore ruled out of Nations League

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed that the emotional high of his side's Champions League triumph inspired him to join the Common Goal charity.

Klopp will join a host of star names from the world of football, including Manchester United's Juan Mata and FIFA women's player of the year Megan Rapinoe, by donating one percent of his salary to aid the work of charities across the world.

The 52-year-old, who was crowned FIFA men's coach of the year on Monday, told the Players Tribune of difficult times he suffered early in his career as an amateur footballer, working in a warehouse while trying to support his young family.

And while he now faces the pressure of trying to deliver Liverpool's first Premier League title in 30 years, Klopp insisted he and his players have the luxury of no longer living in the 'real world'.

"We should not forget what it was like when we had&nbsp;real&nbsp;problems," said Klopp.

"This bubble we live in is not the real world. I am sorry, but anything that happens on a football pitch is not a real problem. There should be a bigger purpose to this game than revenue and trophies, no?

"Just think what we could accomplish if we all came together and gave one percent of what we earn to make a positive difference in the world. Maybe I am naive. Maybe I am a crazy old dreamer.&nbsp;

"But who is this game for?&nbsp;We all know damn well that this game is for dreamers."

After a stunning comeback from losing the first leg of their Champions League semi-final 3-0 to Barcelona to beat the Spanish champions 4-0 at Anfield in May, Liverpool lifted their sixth European Cup by beating Tottenham 2-0 in Madrid.

On their return to Liverpool, an open-top bus parade took the team passed hundreds of thousands of celebrating fans on the city's streets.

"If you could’ve put all the emotions, all the excitement, all the love in the air that day and bottled it up, the world would be a better place," added Klopp.

"I have not been able to get the emotion of that day out of my head. Football has given me everything in my life. But I really want to do more to give back to the world."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed that the emotional high of his side's Champions League triumph inspired him to join the Common Goal charity. Klopp will join a host of star names from the world of football, including Manchester United's Juan Mata and FIFA women's player of the year Megan Rapinoe, by donating one percent of his salary to aid the work of charities across the world.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed that the emotional high of his side's Champions League triumph inspired him to join the Common Goal charity. Klopp will join a host of star names from the world of football, including Manchester United's Juan Mata and FIFA women's player of the year Megan Rapinoe, by donating one percent of his salary to aid the work of charities across the world. The 52-year-old, who was crowned FIFA men's coach of the year on Monday, told the Players Tribune of difficult times he suffered early in his career as an amateur footballer, working in a warehouse while trying to support his young family. And while he now faces the pressure of trying to deliver Liverpool's first Premier League title in 30 years, Klopp insisted he and his players have the luxury of no longer living in the 'real world'. "We should not forget what it was like when we had real problems," said Klopp. "This bubble we live in is not the real world. I am sorry, but anything that happens on a football pitch is not a real problem. There should be a bigger purpose to this game than revenue and trophies, no? "Just think what we could accomplish if we all came together and gave one percent of what we earn to make a positive difference in the world. Maybe I am naive. Maybe I am a crazy old dreamer. "But who is this game for? We all know damn well that this game is for dreamers." After a stunning comeback from losing the first leg of their Champions League semi-final 3-0 to Barcelona to beat the Spanish champions 4-0 at Anfield in May, Liverpool lifted their sixth European Cup by beating Tottenham 2-0 in Madrid. On their return to Liverpool, an open-top bus parade took the team passed hundreds of thousands of celebrating fans on the city's streets. "If you could’ve put all the emotions, all the excitement, all the love in the air that day and bottled it up, the world would be a better place," added Klopp. "I have not been able to get the emotion of that day out of my head. Football has given me everything in my life. But I really want to do more to give back to the world."

'Crazy old dreamer' Klopp inspired to make charity pledge

Jurgen Klopp says&nbsp;Liverpool have not changed their defensive approach despite their record of only one clean sheet in their eight games so far this season.

The European champions are five points clear at the top of the Premier League after five straight wins but the backline has been breached in four of those matches.

And two late goals conceded in Naples in midweek meant their Champions League campaign started in disappointing fashion.

Klopp's men started last season's league campaign with three clean sheets and conceded just 22 Premier League goals all season, missing out on their first top-flight title since 1990 by a single point.

But Klopp said at his pre-Chelsea press conference on Friday that the change was down to circumstances rather than system.

"No, there is no difference," he said at Liverpool's training ground. "We didn't focus more on offensive things and forget the defensive things.

"The goals happened completely strangely. There would have been a second clean sheet against Southampton if we don't concede that goal, there could have been different clean sheets in other games.

"Of course it's not exactly what we wanted but we don't collect clean sheets. We want to win football games and we are still early in the season."

Klopp, whose side travel to Frank Lampard's Chelsea on Sunday, was asked about the importance of Virgil van Dijk and whether he had concerns about any potential injuries ruling the Dutchman out for a period of time.

"That's the reason why we have four centre-halves," he said.

"It's not easy for the 'in the moment number four', not playing and sometimes not involved in the squad, but in the moment if something happens, like it was last year, not only one thing happens, a couple of things happen and then you end up with one centre-half and a defensive midfielder, which we did against Bayern."

"We all need luck to be really successful, injury-wise first and foremost," he added.&nbsp;

"I can imagine something like that is not easy but the other guys, I have said it a lot of times, from my point of view we have four world-class centre-halves. They can play together in each partnership and hopefully that will be enough for a season, to be honest."

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool have not changed their defensive approach despite their record of only one clean sheet in their eight games so far this season. The European champions are five points clear at the top of the Premier League after five straight wins but the backline has been breached in four of those matches.

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool have not changed their defensive approach despite their record of only one clean sheet in their eight games so far this season. The European champions are five points clear at the top of the Premier League after five straight wins but the backline has been breached in four of those matches. And two late goals conceded in Naples in midweek meant their Champions League campaign started in disappointing fashion. Klopp's men started last season's league campaign with three clean sheets and conceded just 22 Premier League goals all season, missing out on their first top-flight title since 1990 by a single point. But Klopp said at his pre-Chelsea press conference on Friday that the change was down to circumstances rather than system. "No, there is no difference," he said at Liverpool's training ground. "We didn't focus more on offensive things and forget the defensive things. "The goals happened completely strangely. There would have been a second clean sheet against Southampton if we don't concede that goal, there could have been different clean sheets in other games. "Of course it's not exactly what we wanted but we don't collect clean sheets. We want to win football games and we are still early in the season." Klopp, whose side travel to Frank Lampard's Chelsea on Sunday, was asked about the importance of Virgil van Dijk and whether he had concerns about any potential injuries ruling the Dutchman out for a period of time. "That's the reason why we have four centre-halves," he said. "It's not easy for the 'in the moment number four', not playing and sometimes not involved in the squad, but in the moment if something happens, like it was last year, not only one thing happens, a couple of things happen and then you end up with one centre-half and a defensive midfielder, which we did against Bayern." "We all need luck to be really successful, injury-wise first and foremost," he added. "I can imagine something like that is not easy but the other guys, I have said it a lot of times, from my point of view we have four world-class centre-halves. They can play together in each partnership and hopefully that will be enough for a season, to be honest."

Jurgen Klopp unfazed by Liverpool's defensive lapses

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo said he deserves to end his soccer career with more Ballon d'Or awards than Barcelona counterpart Lionel Messi and hopes to establish himself as the greatest player of all time.

Ronaldo, 34, has won the renowned France Football magazine trophy for the world's best player five times as many as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/raheem-sterling-not-on-same-level-as-lionel-messi-cristiano-ronaldo-says-pep-guardiola-249589">Messi </a>but is eager for more as he moves into the twilight of his career.

"Messi's in the history of football," Ronaldo told broadcaster Piers Morgan in an interview with Britain's ITV on Tuesday. "But I think I have to have six or seven or eight to be above him," he said, referring to the Ballon d'Or awards.

"I'd love it, I think I deserve it."

The Portugal captain said he was no friend of the Argentine but credited his rival for helping push him further in his own career.

"My relationship with him is, we are not friends, but we have shared this stage for 15 years," Ronaldo said. "I know that he has pushed me to be a better player and I have pushed him to be a better player as well."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maurizio-sarri-back-ronaldo-firing-on-all-cylinders-as-juventus-head-for-fiorentina-249366">Ronaldo</a>, who also played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, has five UEFA Champions League winners' medals and led Portugal to victory at the 2016 UEFA European Championship and 2019 UEFA Nations League tournaments.

"I don't follow the records, the records follow me. I'm addicted to the success, and I don't think it's something bad, I think it's good," Ronaldo said.

"It motivates me. If you're not motivated, it's better to stop."

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo said he deserves to end his soccer career with more Ballon d'Or awards than Barcelona counterpart Lionel Messi and hopes to establish himself as the greatest player of all time.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo said he deserves to end his soccer career with more Ballon d'Or awards than Barcelona counterpart Lionel Messi and hopes to establish himself as the greatest player of all time. Ronaldo, 34, has won the renowned France Football magazine trophy for the world's best player five times as many as Messi but is eager for more as he moves into the twilight of his career. "Messi's in the history of football," Ronaldo told broadcaster Piers Morgan in an interview with Britain's ITV on Tuesday. "But I think I have to have six or seven or eight to be above him," he said, referring to the Ballon d'Or awards. "I'd love it, I think I deserve it." The Portugal captain said he was no friend of the Argentine but credited his rival for helping push him further in his own career. "My relationship with him is, we are not friends, but we have shared this stage for 15 years," Ronaldo said. "I know that he has pushed me to be a better player and I have pushed him to be a better player as well." Ronaldo, who also played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, has five UEFA Champions League winners' medals and led Portugal to victory at the 2016 UEFA European Championship and 2019 UEFA Nations League tournaments. "I don't follow the records, the records follow me. I'm addicted to the success, and I don't think it's something bad, I think it's good," Ronaldo said. "It motivates me. If you're not motivated, it's better to stop."

I deserve more Ballon d'Or awards than Messi, says Ronaldo

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool that retaining the Champions League will be even harder than their incredible march to victory in Madrid last season.

Klopp's side start their bid to win a seventh European Cup with a trip to Napoli for their Group E opener on Tuesday.

The Reds have reached the last two Champions League finals, beating Tottenham in the Spanish capital in June after losing to Real Madrid 12 months earlier.

But Klopp believes Liverpool face a daunting task to make it to the final in Istanbul's Ataturk Stadium -- a venue which carries extra resonance for the club after they won the 2005 Champions League with an astonishing comeback against AC Milan in the same stadium.

Before Liverpool can dream of emulating Steven Gerrard and company's triumph by the banks of the Bosphorus, Klopp knows they will have to run the gauntlet in what he expects to be a fiercely contested tournament.

Napoli are expected to pose the sternest test to Liverpool in a group which also includes unfancied Salzburg and Genk.

Carlo Ancelotti's team came within a whisker of ending Liverpool's European campaign in the group stage last season when Alisson Becker's superb late save denied Arkadiusz Milik to preserve a 1-0 win at Anfield that sent the Reds into the last 16 at the expense of Napoli.

Even if Liverpool should advance to the knockout rounds without so much drama this season, Klopp is wary of the restocked superpowers certain to be lying in wait in the latter stages.

"I will have no problem with it (reaching the final) if it happens again, but at this moment I am not too sure it will," he said when the draw was made in August.

"We have the same chance like everyone else, but that is all, and I don't see us, the English teams, dominating. I really think a lot of teams have a good chance.

"Look at the squad Borussia Dortmund has and tell me we are stronger than them. That is incredible. They can make five changes and you think: 'Really, they didn't play last week? Why?' There are a lot of quality teams.

"Juventus will be there, PSG will be there. Real Madrid? Do you think they gave up already? Bayern Munich now finally brought in Perisic and Coutinho which is a big boost."

'Like a rock' 

While Liverpool will always have a special relationship with the Champions League after the club's dominance of the competition in the 1970s and 1980s, it is not hard to believe that some die-hard Kopites would happily exchange their continental supremacy for a season of domestic bliss.

Having erased the pain of that 2018 final defeat against Real, Liverpool's main goal this term is to end the club's long wait to win the English title.

Pipped to the Premier League trophy by Manchester City on the final day of last season, Liverpool are desperate to win the title for the first time since 1990.

That desire has been clear to see in a blistering five-game winning streak which has already taken them to the top of the table this season.

Even an injury to Alisson has failed to interrupt their flow and the Brazilian keeper's replacement Adrian admits Liverpool's rock-solid defence -- marshalled by the imperious Virgil van Dijk -- has made his life much easier as the former West Ham player adapts to his new club.

"It's easy to play with them; you have some of the best players in the world, the best defenders, midfielders and attackers. From the back, I need to help on the occasions when I have to," Adrian said.

"I'm really proud to have won the last few games. We are in a good moment, we are like a rock – all together, the manager, the staff, players and fans. The club is living a great moment."

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool that retaining the Champions League will be even harder than their incredible march to victory in Madrid last season. Klopp's side start their bid to win a seventh European Cup with a trip to Napoli for their Group E opener on Tuesday.

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool that retaining the Champions League will be even harder than their incredible march to victory in Madrid last season. Klopp's side start their bid to win a seventh European Cup with a trip to Napoli for their Group E opener on Tuesday. The Reds have reached the last two Champions League finals, beating Tottenham in the Spanish capital in June after losing to Real Madrid 12 months earlier. But Klopp believes Liverpool face a daunting task to make it to the final in Istanbul's Ataturk Stadium -- a venue which carries extra resonance for the club after they won the 2005 Champions League with an astonishing comeback against AC Milan in the same stadium. Before Liverpool can dream of emulating Steven Gerrard and company's triumph by the banks of the Bosphorus, Klopp knows they will have to run the gauntlet in what he expects to be a fiercely contested tournament. Napoli are expected to pose the sternest test to Liverpool in a group which also includes unfancied Salzburg and Genk. Carlo Ancelotti's team came within a whisker of ending Liverpool's European campaign in the group stage last season when Alisson Becker's superb late save denied Arkadiusz Milik to preserve a 1-0 win at Anfield that sent the Reds into the last 16 at the expense of Napoli. Even if Liverpool should advance to the knockout rounds without so much drama this season, Klopp is wary of the restocked superpowers certain to be lying in wait in the latter stages. "I will have no problem with it (reaching the final) if it happens again, but at this moment I am not too sure it will," he said when the draw was made in August. "We have the same chance like everyone else, but that is all, and I don't see us, the English teams, dominating. I really think a lot of teams have a good chance. "Look at the squad Borussia Dortmund has and tell me we are stronger than them. That is incredible. They can make five changes and you think: 'Really, they didn't play last week? Why?' There are a lot of quality teams. "Juventus will be there, PSG will be there. Real Madrid? Do you think they gave up already? Bayern Munich now finally brought in Perisic and Coutinho which is a big boost." 'Like a rock' While Liverpool will always have a special relationship with the Champions League after the club's dominance of the competition in the 1970s and 1980s, it is not hard to believe that some die-hard Kopites would happily exchange their continental supremacy for a season of domestic bliss. Having erased the pain of that 2018 final defeat against Real, Liverpool's main goal this term is to end the club's long wait to win the English title. Pipped to the Premier League trophy by Manchester City on the final day of last season, Liverpool are desperate to win the title for the first time since 1990. That desire has been clear to see in a blistering five-game winning streak which has already taken them to the top of the table this season. Even an injury to Alisson has failed to interrupt their flow and the Brazilian keeper's replacement Adrian admits Liverpool's rock-solid defence -- marshalled by the imperious Virgil van Dijk -- has made his life much easier as the former West Ham player adapts to his new club. "It's easy to play with them; you have some of the best players in the world, the best defenders, midfielders and attackers. From the back, I need to help on the occasions when I have to," Adrian said. "I'm really proud to have won the last few games. We are in a good moment, we are like a rock – all together, the manager, the staff, players and fans. The club is living a great moment."

Jurgen Klopp expects daunting ride as Liverpool eye Istanbul return

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize.

Dutchman Van Dijk starred as Liverpool won their sixth European Cup last season with a 2-0 Champions League final victory over Tottenham in Madrid.

"I need to thank my teammates, without them I would not have achieved what I have achieved," Van Dijk told BT Sport.

"It's been a long road and it's part of my journey. I'm very proud to get this trophy. It's credit to everyone who has helped me."

The 28-year-old is the first defender to win the award since the inaugural edition in 2010-11.

He moved to Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world record fee for a defender of £75 million ($91.4 million), immediately helping them reach that season's Champions League final where they lost to Real Madrid.

But Van Dijk was a key figure as Liverpool won their first major trophy since 2012 last term, while also setting a club-record points tally in finishing second by a point behind Manchester City in the Premier League.

"I wasn't 18 and went straight to the top. I had to work every step of the way," added Van Dijk, who was also part of the Netherlands side who lost the inaugural Nations League final to Ronaldo's Portugal.

Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list.

"It's not easy but of course we have a good relationship," said Ronaldo of Messi.

"We have not yet had dinner but it is nice. We push each other and it's good to be part of the history of football."

Ronaldo's first season in Italy after joining Juventus from Real Madrid brought him a Serie A winners' medal, but the Turin giants suffered a shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Ajax.

"It was a special year," said the 34-year-old.

Full-back Bronze won the Women's Champions League title with Lyon before helping England reach the women's World Cup semi-finals.

"We had an amazing season, winning the treble," said Bronze of Lyon's exploits. "I think any of my teammates could have been up here receiving the award today."

The 27-year-old Bronze is the first English player to win either of the UEFA player of the year titles.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize. Dutchman Van Dijk starred as Liverpool won their sixth European Cup last season with a 2-0 Champions League final victory over Tottenham in Madrid. "I need to thank my teammates, without them I would not have achieved what I have achieved," Van Dijk told BT Sport. "It's been a long road and it's part of my journey. I'm very proud to get this trophy. It's credit to everyone who has helped me." The 28-year-old is the first defender to win the award since the inaugural edition in 2010-11. He moved to Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world record fee for a defender of £75 million ($91.4 million), immediately helping them reach that season's Champions League final where they lost to Real Madrid. But Van Dijk was a key figure as Liverpool won their first major trophy since 2012 last term, while also setting a club-record points tally in finishing second by a point behind Manchester City in the Premier League. "I wasn't 18 and went straight to the top. I had to work every step of the way," added Van Dijk, who was also part of the Netherlands side who lost the inaugural Nations League final to Ronaldo's Portugal. Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list. "It's not easy but of course we have a good relationship," said Ronaldo of Messi. "We have not yet had dinner but it is nice. We push each other and it's good to be part of the history of football." Ronaldo's first season in Italy after joining Juventus from Real Madrid brought him a Serie A winners' medal, but the Turin giants suffered a shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Ajax. "It was a special year," said the 34-year-old. Full-back Bronze won the Women's Champions League title with Lyon before helping England reach the women's World Cup semi-finals. "We had an amazing season, winning the treble," said Bronze of Lyon's exploits. "I think any of my teammates could have been up here receiving the award today." The 27-year-old Bronze is the first English player to win either of the UEFA player of the year titles.

Virgil van Dijk, Lucy Bronze take UEFA Player of the Year honours

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco.&nbsp;

Messi and Ronaldo were seated next to each other during the ceremony and were seen sharing smiles.&nbsp;

During the ceremony, Ronaldo was asked about his relationship with Barcelona's Messi, he said he hopes the pair could share dinner.&nbsp;

"We have shared the stage 15 years. I don't know if that's happened before - the same two guys on the same stage all the time," Ronaldo said.&nbsp;

"Of course, we have a good relationship. We haven't had dinner together yet, but I hope in the future," he added.&nbsp;

"We had that battle in Spain. I pushed him and he pushed me as well. So it's good to be part of the history of football," said Juventus star.&nbsp;

Watch the video:

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The perfect ingredients for some GOAT soup... 🐐🥣 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Legends?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Legends</a> <a href="https://t.co/180ZFCMteA">pic.twitter.com/180ZFCMteA</a>
— Mpho Letsholonyane (@M_Letsholonyane) <a href="https://twitter.com/M_Letsholonyane/status/1167306611024515072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Legends of all time.. a video of a decade and half legendary!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ronaldo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ronaldo</a> <a href="https://t.co/JhjKW77O5x">pic.twitter.com/JhjKW77O5x</a>
— 👨🏽‍💻 (@BraKingsley) <a href="https://twitter.com/BraKingsley/status/1167233496844312581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed a fierce rivalry at the pinnacle of the sport, and dominated the football landscape having swept individual and team accolades for well over a decade.&nbsp;

Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list.

Though the two lost out to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in the men's Player of the Year award category in Monaco on Thursday.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most popular rivalries in sports, was spotted in a completely different avatar during Thursday's Champions League draw in Monaco. Messi and Ronaldo were seated next to each other during the ceremony and were seen sharing smiles. During the ceremony, Ronaldo was asked about his relationship with Barcelona's Messi, he said he hopes the pair could share dinner. "We have shared the stage 15 years. I don't know if that's happened before - the same two guys on the same stage all the time," Ronaldo said. "Of course, we have a good relationship. We haven't had dinner together yet, but I hope in the future," he added. "We had that battle in Spain. I pushed him and he pushed me as well. So it's good to be part of the history of football," said Juventus star. Watch the video: The perfect ingredients for some GOAT soup... 🐐🥣 #Messi #CR7 #Legends pic.twitter.com/180ZFCMteA — Mpho Letsholonyane (@M_Letsholonyane) August 30, 2019 × Legends of all time.. a video of a decade and half legendary!! #GOAT #Messi #Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/JhjKW77O5x — 👨🏽‍💻 (@BraKingsley) August 30, 2019 × Ronaldo and Messi have enjoyed a fierce rivalry at the pinnacle of the sport, and dominated the football landscape having swept individual and team accolades for well over a decade. Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list. Though the two lost out to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in the men's Player of the Year award category in Monaco on Thursday.

Cristiano Ronaldo-Lionel Messi's bromance lights up UEFA awards

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final.&nbsp;

During the UEFA awards ceremony, the defender was asked about Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win against Barcelona in the semi-final at Anfield.&nbsp;

The result sealed a 4-3 aggregate win&nbsp;and a spot in the UCL final.&nbsp;

However, van Dijk's reply — in front of Barcelona's Lionel Messi — was rather awkward.&nbsp;

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MUST LISTEN: Virgil bullying Messi about Anfield semifinal😂 
My CB❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Virgil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Virgil</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vanDijk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vanDijk</a> <a href="https://t.co/7dSTDLcQCM">pic.twitter.com/7dSTDLcQCM</a>
— 6 TIMES (@kloppoynwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/kloppoynwa/status/1167135174926225408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Van Dijk said, "Anfield played a massive role. After the game in Spain we felt 3-0 wasn't the right result on the night but it was reality. We had to overcome it by doing the unthinkable.&nbsp;

"I think we had a crazy couple of days, we travelled back and played Newcastle and scored in the last few minutes to get the three points in a close title race. We travelled back from Newcastle and had one day to prepare for the Barcelona game.

"To actually do it, was unbelievable. The atmosphere was outstanding, it was something special and everything clicked on that night. We scored the goals at the right times, it was just a fantastic evening."

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday. The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday. The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final. During the UEFA awards ceremony, the defender was asked about Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win against Barcelona in the semi-final at Anfield. The result sealed a 4-3 aggregate win and a spot in the UCL final. However, van Dijk's reply — in front of Barcelona's Lionel Messi — was rather awkward. MUST LISTEN: Virgil bullying Messi about Anfield semifinal😂 My CB❤️ #LFC #Virgil #vanDijk pic.twitter.com/7dSTDLcQCM — 6 TIMES (@kloppoynwa) August 29, 2019 × Van Dijk said, "Anfield played a massive role. After the game in Spain we felt 3-0 wasn't the right result on the night but it was reality. We had to overcome it by doing the unthinkable. "I think we had a crazy couple of days, we travelled back and played Newcastle and scored in the last few minutes to get the three points in a close title race. We travelled back from Newcastle and had one day to prepare for the Barcelona game. "To actually do it, was unbelievable. The atmosphere was outstanding, it was something special and everything clicked on that night. We scored the goals at the right times, it was just a fantastic evening."

'Awkward': Virgil van Dijk talks about defeating Barcelona is semi-final last season in front of Lionel Messi

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million).

The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018.

"Welcome Hirving," Napoli club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis wrote on Twitter without revealing details of the transfer.

Lozano, nicknamed 'Chucky', joined PSV from Pachuca in 2017 for €12.5 million and scored 45 goals in 83 games over two seasons.&nbsp;

"I leave PSV as a happy man," Lozano told the Dutch club's website.

"Winning the Dutch title was one of the highlights in my career so far and I also achieved my dream of playing UEFA Champions League."

Lozano has reportedly agreed a five-year deal worth €42 million which will earn him up to €4.5 million a year.

The contract includes a €130 million buy-out clause, Sky Sports Italia reported.

Lozano will not play in Napoli's Serie A opener Saturday at Fiorentina, but is expected to make his debut against champions Juventus in Turin on August 31.

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million). The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018.

Mexican international Hirving Lozano on Thursday completed his move to Serie A runners-up Napoli on a deal reported to be worth €42 million ($46 million). The 24-year-old winger arrives from PSV Eindhoven where he won the Dutch title in 2018. "Welcome Hirving," Napoli club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis wrote on Twitter without revealing details of the transfer. Lozano, nicknamed 'Chucky', joined PSV from Pachuca in 2017 for €12.5 million and scored 45 goals in 83 games over two seasons. "I leave PSV as a happy man," Lozano told the Dutch club's website. "Winning the Dutch title was one of the highlights in my career so far and I also achieved my dream of playing UEFA Champions League." Lozano has reportedly agreed a five-year deal worth €42 million which will earn him up to €4.5 million a year. The contract includes a €130 million buy-out clause, Sky Sports Italia reported. Lozano will not play in Napoli's Serie A opener Saturday at Fiorentina, but is expected to make his debut against champions Juventus in Turin on August 31.

Mexican forward Hirving Lozano completes Napoli move

Stephanie&nbsp;Frappart&nbsp;will take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between Liverpool and Chelsea in Istanbul on August 14, becoming the first woman to referee a major men's match in European competition.

France's&nbsp;Frappart, 35, refereed the Women's World Cup final between the United States and the Netherlands in July, and last season became the first female to officiate a Ligue 1 match.

She took charge of April's game between Amiens and Strasbourg and has since been promoted to the French top flight's pool of referees on a permanent basis for the upcoming campaign.

"I have said on many occasions that the potential for women's football has no limits and I am delighted that Stephanie&nbsp;Frappart&nbsp;has been appointed to officiate at this year's UEFA Super Cup along with assistant referees Manuela Nicolosi and Michelle O'Neal," said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

"As an organisation, we place the utmost importance on the development of women's football in all areas.&nbsp;

"I hope the skill and devotion that Stephanie has shown throughout her career to reach this level will provide inspiration to millions of girls and women around Europe and show them there should be no barriers in order to reach one's dream."

Germany's Bibiana Steinhaus became the first female referee in one of the top European leagues when she took charge of a Bundesliga match between Hertha Berlin and Werder Bremen in September 2017.

Nicole Petignat was the first female referee assigned to a men's match in UEFA competition, overseeing three qualifiers in the UEFA Cup between 2004 and 2009.

Stephanie Frappart will take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between Liverpool and Chelsea in Istanbul on August 14, becoming the first woman to referee a major men's match in European competition.

Stephanie Frappart will take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between Liverpool and Chelsea in Istanbul on August 14, becoming the first woman to referee a major men's match in European competition. France's Frappart, 35, refereed the Women's World Cup final between the United States and the Netherlands in July, and last season became the first female to officiate a Ligue 1 match. She took charge of April's game between Amiens and Strasbourg and has since been promoted to the French top flight's pool of referees on a permanent basis for the upcoming campaign. "I have said on many occasions that the potential for women's football has no limits and I am delighted that Stephanie Frappart has been appointed to officiate at this year's UEFA Super Cup along with assistant referees Manuela Nicolosi and Michelle O'Neal," said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. "As an organisation, we place the utmost importance on the development of women's football in all areas. "I hope the skill and devotion that Stephanie has shown throughout her career to reach this level will provide inspiration to millions of girls and women around Europe and show them there should be no barriers in order to reach one's dream." Germany's Bibiana Steinhaus became the first female referee in one of the top European leagues when she took charge of a Bundesliga match between Hertha Berlin and Werder Bremen in September 2017. Nicole Petignat was the first female referee assigned to a men's match in UEFA competition, overseeing three qualifiers in the UEFA Cup between 2004 and 2009.

Stephanie Frappart to referee UEFA Super Cup

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-confirms-new-laws-will-not-be-implemented-at-nations-league-224205&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWxcuw-afjAhXVmeYKHVSsAKEQFjABegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ZMjbLwNsE_mvjZDONjryK">UEFA</a> said on Tuesday.

In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">Euro 2020</a>, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition.

European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations.

The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications.

The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday.

The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">tournament </a>draw takes place on November&nbsp;30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday. In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament. Euro 2020, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition. European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations. The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications. The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday. The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final tournament draw takes place on November 30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

UEFA: Record 14 million tickets requested for Euro 2020

Former UEFA chief Michel Platini was released from custody by the French Police early on Wednesday. No charges were brought against the former number 10 of Les Bleus after almost 15 hours of questioning, reported news agency Associated Press.

"I have always been at peace because I feel totally foreign to any of these matters. This is an old case, you know it, we explained it. I have always expressed myself with full transparency in all the newspapers. That's it, it goes on, they investigate, they search," said Platini after his release.

"A lot of noise for nothing. There you go, very long questioning. Michel Platini gave his testimony by answering as sincerely and precisely as he could, to all the questions put to him. I would remind you that he was heard 18 months ago as well, as a witness in a free hearing. We do not consider in any way that Michel Platini can be considered a suspect in any way, either yesterday or today or tomorrow. So it's a done deal for us," his lawyer William Bourdon said.

The French football legend elected to lead European football's governing body in 2007 was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-uefa-chief-michel-platini-arrested-in-2022-qatar-world-cup-probe-228291">taken into custody</a> by French anti-corruption police investigating the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to the gas-rich Gulf state Qatar.

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Also questioned on Tuesday were two one-time associates of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, adding a layer of political intrigue to the investigation of the hugely controversial decision to hold football's showcase tournament in a desert country so scorching hot in June and July that the matches will be played instead in November and December.

Platini, 63, led UEFA until 2015 when he was banned from football for four years for ethics violations including receiving $2 million payment from the disgraced former head of FIFA Sepp Blatter.

Qatar has been accused of buying votes in its bid to stage the World Cup and a subsequent report by US independent investigator Michael Garcia unearthed an array of suspect financial dealings, many linked to Sandro Rosell, the ex-Barcelona president who served as a consultant for Qatar.

Platini, a triple Ballon d'Or winner, was expected to succeed Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 before his fall from grace. He has been battling to clear his name ever since.

Former UEFA chief Michel Platini was released from custody by the French Police early on Wednesday. No charges were brought against the former number 10 of Les Bleus after almost 15 hours of questioning, reported news agency Associated Press.

Former UEFA chief Michel Platini was released from custody by the French Police early on Wednesday. No charges were brought against the former number 10 of Les Bleus after almost 15 hours of questioning, reported news agency Associated Press. "I have always been at peace because I feel totally foreign to any of these matters. This is an old case, you know it, we explained it. I have always expressed myself with full transparency in all the newspapers. That's it, it goes on, they investigate, they search," said Platini after his release. "A lot of noise for nothing. There you go, very long questioning. Michel Platini gave his testimony by answering as sincerely and precisely as he could, to all the questions put to him. I would remind you that he was heard 18 months ago as well, as a witness in a free hearing. We do not consider in any way that Michel Platini can be considered a suspect in any way, either yesterday or today or tomorrow. So it's a done deal for us," his lawyer William Bourdon said. The French football legend elected to lead European football's governing body in 2007 was taken into custody by French anti-corruption police investigating the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to the gas-rich Gulf state Qatar. Watch Platini's reaction: × Also questioned on Tuesday were two one-time associates of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy, adding a layer of political intrigue to the investigation of the hugely controversial decision to hold football's showcase tournament in a desert country so scorching hot in June and July that the matches will be played instead in November and December. Platini, 63, led UEFA until 2015 when he was banned from football for four years for ethics violations including receiving $2 million payment from the disgraced former head of FIFA Sepp Blatter. Qatar has been accused of buying votes in its bid to stage the World Cup and a subsequent report by US independent investigator Michael Garcia unearthed an array of suspect financial dealings, many linked to Sandro Rosell, the ex-Barcelona president who served as a consultant for Qatar. Platini, a triple Ballon d'Or winner, was expected to succeed Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 before his fall from grace. He has been battling to clear his name ever since.

Ex-UEFA chief Michel Platini released, says he is at 'peace'

Paris St Germain forward Neymar's appeal against a three-match Champions League ban for insulting match officials following the French side's elimination from the competition last season has been rejected, UEFA said on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-appears-to-strike-fan-after-psg-lose-french-cup-final-214591&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb25P6y_XiAhUCaI8KHdQVDmIQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2aF6_XT_sbxCgVzZJDEc-G">Neymar </a>had labelled the video assistant referee system a "disgrace" after Manchester United were awarded a decisive last-gap penalty at the Parc des Princes which they converted to advance to the quarter-finals on away goals.

The Brazilian was suspended in April for three Champions League matches and PSG appealed the decision.

"The appeal lodged by PSG is rejected. Consequently, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body's decision of April 25 is confirmed," UEFA said in a statement.

Neymar's woes continue to mount this week, as Brazilian tax authorities put a freeze on his mansions and other properties amid a long-running tax dispute.

In addition, Neymar in recent weeks has been accused of rape, an allegation that the Brazilian police are investigating but the player has denied.

Neymar was <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazils-neymar-out-of-copa-america-after-tearing-ankle-ligament-224880&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjb25P6y_XiAhUCaI8KHdQVDmIQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1FA9_e5bVryQoKOjctVnwu">ruled out the Copa America</a> in his home country because of an ankle ligament injury.

Paris St Germain forward Neymar's appeal against a three-match Champions League ban for insulting match officials following the French side's elimination from the competition last season has been rejected, UEFA said on Wednesday.

Paris St Germain forward Neymar's appeal against a three-match Champions League ban for insulting match officials following the French side's elimination from the competition last season has been rejected, UEFA said on Wednesday. Neymar had labelled the video assistant referee system a "disgrace" after Manchester United were awarded a decisive last-gap penalty at the Parc des Princes which they converted to advance to the quarter-finals on away goals. The Brazilian was suspended in April for three Champions League matches and PSG appealed the decision. "The appeal lodged by PSG is rejected. Consequently, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body's decision of April 25 is confirmed," UEFA said in a statement. Neymar's woes continue to mount this week, as Brazilian tax authorities put a freeze on his mansions and other properties amid a long-running tax dispute. In addition, Neymar in recent weeks has been accused of rape, an allegation that the Brazilian police are investigating but the player has denied. Neymar was ruled out the Copa America in his home country because of an ankle ligament injury.

UEFA reject PSG's appeal to overturn Neymar's Champions League ban

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-beat-tottenham-to-win-champions-league-final-223520&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio06iKjdLiAhVKPY8KHWk1B5wQFjAEegQICBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Yo7lJCURncK_-f2z_Q5Af">Champions League</a> turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach.

His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/valencia-knock-barcelona-off-copa-del-rey-throne-221707&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj-08v1jNLiAhVLnI8KHUvkDHQQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1VEPs7YODRHk5DKYn_yByd">Barcelona</a>, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars.

"World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement.

The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning.

Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe.

"It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said.

"The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added.

Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost.

Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct.

The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying,&nbsp;"It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like."

Blatter's successor at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj8LSbjdLiAhUKknAKHVeMB0kQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw35byZJ6mfMoeY7klN_IHnK">FIFA</a>, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration".

"Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said.

In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini.

Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair.

Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday.

Lennart Johansson, a Swede who presided over European soccer for 17 years as its new Champions League turned into a global commercial juggernaut, has died after a short illness aged 89, Sweden's Football Association said on Wednesday. Johansson, president of European football association UEFA from 1990 to 2007, was a driving force behind the formation of the Champions League, giving the continent's top club competition a new identity, a catchy anthem and worldwide reach. His reign saw huge revenue streams flow into the continent's big clubs, turning Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and others into multi-billion dollar enterprises, and their players into global megastars. "World football will always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game," UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement. The Swedish FA said Swedish football was in mourning. Johansson took over the top job in European football at a turbulent time when money from television coverage was flooding into the sport and players gained complete freedom to move between countries and clubs in Europe. "It was not a given that UEFA would be successful in meeting all these dramatic changes," the Swedish FA said. "The Champions League became an enormous success, but Lennart Johansson's other major achievement was finding a fragile balance between the big clubs' demands and the needs of the broader football family," SFA added. Johansson ran against Swiss Sepp Blatter to head football's world governing body FIFA in an acrimonious vote in 1998 but lost. Blatter, who led FIFA for 17 years, is now serving a six-year ban from football for unethical conduct. The men remained rivals. The Swedish FA quoted Johansson as saying, "It is my 20-year fight with Blatter that people like." Blatter's successor at FIFA, Gianni Infantino, who worked earlier in his career under Johansson at UEFA, called the Swede "a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration". "Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity," he said. In 2007, Johansson stepped down as UEFA president after being beaten in an election by former France international Michel Platini. Johansson was given the title honorary president, a role which he took seriously, even attending meetings in his wheelchair. Johansson was a lifelong supporter and honorary president of Stockholm club AIK.

Former UEFA boss Lennart Johansson, father of the Champions League, dies aged 89

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fully-cooperating-in-investigation-manchester-city-release-statement-on-champions-league-ban-threat-218781&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjuyYXW4Z_iAhWMinAKHedSCiIQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0M4DjFkJ11T7UybPAHcqmb">Manchester City</a> have been referred to an independent judicial chamber following an investigation into alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-panel-to-recommend-man-city-champions-league-ban-report-218690&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjuyYXW4Z_iAhWMinAKHedSCiIQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw20xpqg2JWIkgQGxYsM8qut">UEFA had opened an investigation into City</a> over potential breaches of its break-even rule in March after German publication Der Spiegel reported the club's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with FFP requirements.

"The Club Financial Control Body chief investigator (Yves Leterme)... has decided to refer Manchester City FC to the CFCB adjudicatory chamber following the conclusion of his investigation," UEFA said in a statement.

City released a statement soon after saying the Premier League champions were "disappointed, but regrettably not surprised, by the sudden announcement of the referral."

FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners and clubs who have breached the rules can be barred from European competition.

"Manchester City is entirely confident of a positive outcome when the matter is considered by an independent judicial body," City added.

"The accusation of financial irregularities remains entirely false and the CFCB IC referral ignores a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence provided by Manchester City to the Chamber'', City added.

''The decision contains mistakes, misinterpretations and confusions fundamentally borne out of a basic lack of due process and there remain significant unresolved matters raised by Manchester City as part of what the club has found to be a wholly unsatisfactory, curtailed, and hostile process'', City's statement said.

City, who won the Premier League title on Sunday, are seeking an unprecedented domestic treble when they face Watford in the FA Cup final on Saturday

Manchester City have been referred to an independent judicial chamber following an investigation into alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Thursday.

Manchester City have been referred to an independent judicial chamber following an investigation into alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Thursday. UEFA had opened an investigation into City over potential breaches of its break-even rule in March after German publication Der Spiegel reported the club's Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with FFP requirements. "The Club Financial Control Body chief investigator (Yves Leterme)... has decided to refer Manchester City FC to the CFCB adjudicatory chamber following the conclusion of his investigation," UEFA said in a statement. City released a statement soon after saying the Premier League champions were "disappointed, but regrettably not surprised, by the sudden announcement of the referral." FFP rules are intended to prevent clubs receiving unlimited amounts of money through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to the owners and clubs who have breached the rules can be barred from European competition. "Manchester City is entirely confident of a positive outcome when the matter is considered by an independent judicial body," City added. "The accusation of financial irregularities remains entirely false and the CFCB IC referral ignores a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence provided by Manchester City to the Chamber'', City added. ''The decision contains mistakes, misinterpretations and confusions fundamentally borne out of a basic lack of due process and there remain significant unresolved matters raised by Manchester City as part of what the club has found to be a wholly unsatisfactory, curtailed, and hostile process'', City's statement said. City, who won the Premier League title on Sunday, are seeking an unprecedented domestic treble when they face Watford in the FA Cup final on Saturday

Manchester City referred to UEFA judicial chamber over alleged financial fair play breach

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned &nbsp;"individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-panel-to-recommend-man-city-champions-league-ban-report-218690">they be barred from the Champions League</a>.

European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules.

The New York Times said Monday that members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions.

"The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," said the Times.

However, City said they were fully co-operating with "the CFCB IC's (club financial control body investigatory chamber) ongoing investigation".

"In doing so the club is reliant on both the CFCB IC's independence and commitment to due process; and on UEFA's commitment of March 7 that it 'will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing'," read their statement.

"The New York Times report citing 'people familiar with the case' is therefore extremely concerning.

"The implications are that either Manchester City's good faith in the CFCB IC is misplaced or the CFCB IC process is being misrepresented by individuals intent on damaging the club's reputation and its commercial interests. Or both."

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CLUB STATEMENT<a href="https://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv">https://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1128272847338647552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction.

Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

City were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules.

But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation. 
&nbsp;

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned "individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend they be barred from the Champions League.

Premier League champions Manchester City said Tuesday they were concerned "individuals intent on damaging" the club may be behind a news report that European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend they be barred from the Champions League. European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules. The New York Times said Monday that members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions. "The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," said the Times. However, City said they were fully co-operating with "the CFCB IC's (club financial control body investigatory chamber) ongoing investigation". "In doing so the club is reliant on both the CFCB IC's independence and commitment to due process; and on UEFA's commitment of March 7 that it 'will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing'," read their statement. "The New York Times report citing 'people familiar with the case' is therefore extremely concerning. "The implications are that either Manchester City's good faith in the CFCB IC is misplaced or the CFCB IC process is being misrepresented by individuals intent on damaging the club's reputation and its commercial interests. Or both." CLUB STATEMENThttps://t.co/c2S8qXQmxv — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2019 × It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction. Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. City were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules. But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

'Fully cooperating in investigation': Manchester City release statement on Champions League ban threat

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-players-that-led-manchester-city-to-english-premier-league-glory-218210">Premier League champions Manchester City</a> be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday.

European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules.

Members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions, the newspaper said.

"The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," the Times said.

It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction.

Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Manchester City vigorously denied any financial irregularities, saying in March they welcomed UEFA's investigation as an opportunity to clear their name.

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City, who were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules.

But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted Premier League champions Manchester City be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday.

European football's financial regulators are poised to recommend that newly minted Premier League champions Manchester City be barred from the Champions League, the New York Times reported Monday. European football's governing body UEFA and the Premier League launched an investigation this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules. Members of the investigatory chamber of UEFA's financial control board, set up to analyze the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, met two weeks ago in Switzerland to finalize their conclusions, the newspaper said. "The investigatory panel’s leader, the former prime minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, will have the final say on the submission to a separate adjudicatory chamber, which could be filed as soon as this week. The body is expected to seek at least a one-season ban," the Times said. It was unclear if such a ban, if levied, would be enforced next season or in the 2020-21 campaign, the Times said, noting that with qualifying for Europe's most prestigious and lucrative club championship set to start in June there is little time to finalize a sanction. Manchester City would also have the right to appeal such a ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Manchester City vigorously denied any financial irregularities, saying in March they welcomed UEFA's investigation as an opportunity to clear their name. × City, who were fined 60 million euros ($67.3 million) and subjected to squad, wage and spending caps in a 2014 settlement agreed with UEFA following a previous breach of the rules. But the club says the claims made in Der Spiegel were an "organized and clear" attempt to damage its reputation.

UEFA panel may recommend Manchester City Champions League ban: Report

Liverpool will be without top scorer Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino as they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-leads-barcelona-over-liverpool-in-champions-league-semi-final-first-leg-215187">attempt to overturn a 3-0 deficit</a> in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on Tuesday.

Salah was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-roberto-firmino-out-of-barcelona-visit-mohamed-salah-at-risk-216069">stretchered off with a head knock</a> during Liverpool's 3-2 win over Newcastle on Saturday, while Firmino missed that game due to a groin injury.

"Both are not available for tomorrow," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Monday.

"It's a concussion for Mo. He would not be allowed to play. He feels Ok but it's not good enough from a medical point of view. He's desperate but we cannot do it."

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Mohamed Salah has been ruled out of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a>'s <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChampionsLeague</a> semi-final second-leg tie with <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBarcelona</a> on Tuesday.<a href="https://t.co/X4c49voP55">https://t.co/X4c49voP55</a>
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC/status/1125358687672053761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Brazilian striker Firmino is out due to a groin injury.

"Two of the world's best strikers are not available tomorrow night and we have to score four goals against Barcelona to go through after 90 minutes," added Klopp.

"It doesn’t make life easier, but as long as we have 11 players on the pitch, we will try it."

Liverpool have a rich history of stunning comebacks in European football, most famously lifting the Champions League in 2005 after trailing the final 3-0 to AC Milan at half-time.

In Klopp's first season in charge in the quarter-finals of the Europa League in 2016, the Reds also came from 3-1 down in the final 25 minutes to beat his old side Borussia Dortmund 4-3.

However, the German coach is aware of the extra difficulty of not just scoring at least three against the Spanish champions, but also not conceding a vital away goal to the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez that would leave Liverpool needing to score five to progress.

"I imagine the place will be rocking even before we score to be honest, but we not only have to score, we have to deny Barcelona from scoring," he added.

"It doesn't happen too often that Barcelona don't score at all. We know how big the challenge is.

"This team is so wonderful we will try 100 per cent, but that doesn't mean it will all work out."

While Liverpool edged a bruising battle with Newcastle to remain in the hunt for a first Premier League title in 29 years, Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde could afford the luxury of making 11 changes for a 2-0 defeat at Celta Vigo on Saturday having already sealed the La Liga title.

And Klopp admitted he could have one eye on Sunday's final league game of the season at home to Wolves with his team selection.

"We have to make a lot of decisions. Tomorrow night will be the third game in six days and Barcelona changed 11 positions on Saturday, so that is a massive difference as well of course," he said.

"Together with our supporters it was a long season and there is at least a little chance to make it even longer.

"But if not, these are the last two home games of an incredible season and I think we should celebrate that with a good performance on the pitch and a very, very good performance in the stands."

Liverpool will be without top scorer Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino as they attempt to overturn a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on Tuesday.

Liverpool will be without top scorer Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino as they attempt to overturn a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Barcelona on Tuesday. Salah was stretchered off with a head knock during Liverpool's 3-2 win over Newcastle on Saturday, while Firmino missed that game due to a groin injury. "Both are not available for tomorrow," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Monday. "It's a concussion for Mo. He would not be allowed to play. He feels Ok but it's not good enough from a medical point of view. He's desperate but we cannot do it." Mohamed Salah has been ruled out of #LFC's @ChampionsLeague semi-final second-leg tie with @FCBarcelona on Tuesday.https://t.co/X4c49voP55 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 6, 2019 × Brazilian striker Firmino is out due to a groin injury. "Two of the world's best strikers are not available tomorrow night and we have to score four goals against Barcelona to go through after 90 minutes," added Klopp. "It doesn’t make life easier, but as long as we have 11 players on the pitch, we will try it." Liverpool have a rich history of stunning comebacks in European football, most famously lifting the Champions League in 2005 after trailing the final 3-0 to AC Milan at half-time. In Klopp's first season in charge in the quarter-finals of the Europa League in 2016, the Reds also came from 3-1 down in the final 25 minutes to beat his old side Borussia Dortmund 4-3. However, the German coach is aware of the extra difficulty of not just scoring at least three against the Spanish champions, but also not conceding a vital away goal to the likes of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez that would leave Liverpool needing to score five to progress. "I imagine the place will be rocking even before we score to be honest, but we not only have to score, we have to deny Barcelona from scoring," he added. "It doesn't happen too often that Barcelona don't score at all. We know how big the challenge is. "This team is so wonderful we will try 100 per cent, but that doesn't mean it will all work out." While Liverpool edged a bruising battle with Newcastle to remain in the hunt for a first Premier League title in 29 years, Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde could afford the luxury of making 11 changes for a 2-0 defeat at Celta Vigo on Saturday having already sealed the La Liga title. And Klopp admitted he could have one eye on Sunday's final league game of the season at home to Wolves with his team selection. "We have to make a lot of decisions. Tomorrow night will be the third game in six days and Barcelona changed 11 positions on Saturday, so that is a massive difference as well of course," he said. "Together with our supporters it was a long season and there is at least a little chance to make it even longer. "But if not, these are the last two home games of an incredible season and I think we should celebrate that with a good performance on the pitch and a very, very good performance in the stands."

Mohamed Salah to miss Champions League second leg against Barcelona

Barcelona's Argentine star Lionel Messi struck twice to secure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-leads-barcelona-over-liverpool-in-champions-league-semi-final-first-leg-215187">a convincing 3-0 victory for the Catalan side</a> in their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Liverpool at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.&nbsp;

With the two goals, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-boss-jurgen-klopp-hails-unstoppable-lionel-messi-after-losing-to-barcelona-215192">Messi</a> completed a tally of 600 goals for his senior club.&nbsp;

Messi, who is currently La Liga's Pichichi top scorer and the European Golden Boot leader, has taken 683 matches to reach the new mark (0.88 goals per match).&nbsp;

He made the record on a very special day, it was the 14th anniversary of his first official goal for the Barcelona.&nbsp;

The Argentine's milestone goal was a moment of brilliance as he curled a dazzling free kick into the top corner from distance to add gloss to a scoreline that did not reflect the balance of play.&nbsp;

Besides scoring, Messi created two chances for Philippe Coutinho, who shot directly into the hands of Liverpool keeper Alisson on the first occasion before missing the target on the second.&nbsp;

Watch Messi's magnificent free-kick:&nbsp;

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Amazing as always! Messi 👍🏻 <a href="https://t.co/5P8uklU9LL">pic.twitter.com/5P8uklU9LL</a>
— Luckycherub (@luckycherub) <a href="https://twitter.com/luckycherub/status/1123745170510548992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Messi's brain : "the velocity of wind is 44,79 km/h, the pressure is 1,7928 atm, the temperature is 19,456244°C, the ball pressure is 8,4628264 atm. OK just kick it to the left." <a href="https://t.co/Ngq5ncepIV">pic.twitter.com/Ngq5ncepIV</a>
— 🥚 (@ndoggdadar) <a href="https://twitter.com/ndoggdadar/status/1123750579384270849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Here's Messi's other goal, watch:

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Messi hit a great goal!! <a href="https://t.co/AqgA7sOjTn">pic.twitter.com/AqgA7sOjTn</a>
— Hikaari (@Hikaari3) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hikaari3/status/1123742859692265473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Reds were better than the score showed, but will need some magic next week at Anfield to give themselves a chance at victory in Europe's elite club competition a year after losing in the final to Real Madrid.&nbsp;

For Barca, Wednesday night's contest in front of more than 98,000 people at Camp Nou was a giant step toward reaching the final for the first time since they last hoisted the Champions League trophy in 2015.&nbsp;

The visitors deployed their trademark high press and the home side struggled on the attack for the opening 15 minutes until Messi dropped back toward midfield to better enable the crucial linkups.

Barcelona's Argentine star Lionel Messi struck twice to secure a convincing 3-0 victory for the Catalan side in their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Liverpool at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.

Barcelona's Argentine star Lionel Messi struck twice to secure a convincing 3-0 victory for the Catalan side in their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Liverpool at the Nou Camp on Wednesday. With the two goals, Messi completed a tally of 600 goals for his senior club. Messi, who is currently La Liga's Pichichi top scorer and the European Golden Boot leader, has taken 683 matches to reach the new mark (0.88 goals per match). He made the record on a very special day, it was the 14th anniversary of his first official goal for the Barcelona. The Argentine's milestone goal was a moment of brilliance as he curled a dazzling free kick into the top corner from distance to add gloss to a scoreline that did not reflect the balance of play. Besides scoring, Messi created two chances for Philippe Coutinho, who shot directly into the hands of Liverpool keeper Alisson on the first occasion before missing the target on the second. Watch Messi's magnificent free-kick: Amazing as always! Messi 👍🏻 pic.twitter.com/5P8uklU9LL — Luckycherub (@luckycherub) May 2, 2019 × Messi's brain : "the velocity of wind is 44,79 km/h, the pressure is 1,7928 atm, the temperature is 19,456244°C, the ball pressure is 8,4628264 atm. OK just kick it to the left." pic.twitter.com/Ngq5ncepIV — 🥚 (@ndoggdadar) May 2, 2019 × Here's Messi's other goal, watch: Messi hit a great goal!! pic.twitter.com/AqgA7sOjTn — Hikaari (@Hikaari3) May 2, 2019 × The Reds were better than the score showed, but will need some magic next week at Anfield to give themselves a chance at victory in Europe's elite club competition a year after losing in the final to Real Madrid. For Barca, Wednesday night's contest in front of more than 98,000 people at Camp Nou was a giant step toward reaching the final for the first time since they last hoisted the Champions League trophy in 2015. The visitors deployed their trademark high press and the home side struggled on the attack for the opening 15 minutes until Messi dropped back toward midfield to better enable the crucial linkups.

Watch: Messi completes 600 goals for Barca with super free-kick in Champions League tie against Liverpool

Neymar was suspended for three Champions League matches by UEFA on Friday for a foul-mouthed tirade at match officials following Paris Saint-Germain's shock exit from this season's tournament to Manchester United.

The Brazil star missed the 3-1 Champions League second leg last 16 defeat on March 6 through injury, but told match officials "to go fuck yourselves" on social media after watching on from the sidelines at the Parc des Princes.

Neymar was found guilty of "insulting/molesting acts against match official", European football's governing body announced in a statement after opening an inquiry into his outburst on March 22.

The 27-year-old, who will now miss half of PSG's group stage matches in the Champions League next season, was angry with the award of a decisive injury-time penalty which Marcus Rashford scored to send United through.

"It's a disgrace. They get four guys who don't understand football to watch a slow-motion replay in front of the TV," Neymar wrote in Portuguese on Instagram after the game.

He had watched on incredulous from the sidelines&nbsp;as United were awarded the spot-kick for a debatable handball via the video assistant referee (VAR) system, allowing Rashford to fire United into the quarter-finals on away goals.

Neymar was reportedly so enraged by the decision to give the penalty that he had to be restrained by PSG staff to stop him entering the referee's dressing room.

United were given the spot-kick after Presnel Kimpembe was judged to have handled Diogo Dalot's shot.

PSG made Neymar the world's most expensive player in 2017 by signing him from Barcelona for 222 million euros as they stepped up their bid to win a maiden Champions League title, but they have now lost in the last 16 in three straight seasons.

Injury has already ruled Neymar out of several key European matches for PSG, the forward missing the last 16-second leg tie against Real Madrid in 2018, then both legs against Man United at the same stage this season.

In June last year, his teammate Gianluigi Buffon was handed a three-match suspension after a tirade against referee Michael Oliver following his former club Juventus' similarly dramatic quarter-final defeat by Real Madrid.

Former PSG defender Serge Aurier was the first player to be banned by UEFA for comments made on social media in 2015.

Neymar's ban comes on the eve of his return to PSG's starting line-up after injury for Saturday's French Cup final against Rennes.

He made his first appearance since January 23 as a second-half substitute in Sunday's 3-1 win over Monaco as PSG celebrated clinching a sixth Ligue 1 crown in seven years.

Neymar was suspended for three Champions League matches by UEFA on Friday for a foul-mouthed tirade at match officials following Paris Saint-Germain's shock exit from this season's tournament to Manchester United.

Neymar was suspended for three Champions League matches by UEFA on Friday for a foul-mouthed tirade at match officials following Paris Saint-Germain's shock exit from this season's tournament to Manchester United. The Brazil star missed the 3-1 Champions League second leg last 16 defeat on March 6 through injury, but told match officials "to go fuck yourselves" on social media after watching on from the sidelines at the Parc des Princes. Neymar was found guilty of "insulting/molesting acts against match official", European football's governing body announced in a statement after opening an inquiry into his outburst on March 22. The 27-year-old, who will now miss half of PSG's group stage matches in the Champions League next season, was angry with the award of a decisive injury-time penalty which Marcus Rashford scored to send United through. "It's a disgrace. They get four guys who don't understand football to watch a slow-motion replay in front of the TV," Neymar wrote in Portuguese on Instagram after the game. He had watched on incredulous from the sidelines as United were awarded the spot-kick for a debatable handball via the video assistant referee (VAR) system, allowing Rashford to fire United into the quarter-finals on away goals. Neymar was reportedly so enraged by the decision to give the penalty that he had to be restrained by PSG staff to stop him entering the referee's dressing room. United were given the spot-kick after Presnel Kimpembe was judged to have handled Diogo Dalot's shot. PSG made Neymar the world's most expensive player in 2017 by signing him from Barcelona for 222 million euros as they stepped up their bid to win a maiden Champions League title, but they have now lost in the last 16 in three straight seasons. Injury has already ruled Neymar out of several key European matches for PSG, the forward missing the last 16-second leg tie against Real Madrid in 2018, then both legs against Man United at the same stage this season. In June last year, his teammate Gianluigi Buffon was handed a three-match suspension after a tirade against referee Michael Oliver following his former club Juventus' similarly dramatic quarter-final defeat by Real Madrid. Former PSG defender Serge Aurier was the first player to be banned by UEFA for comments made on social media in 2015. Neymar's ban comes on the eve of his return to PSG's starting line-up after injury for Saturday's French Cup final against Rennes. He made his first appearance since January 23 as a second-half substitute in Sunday's 3-1 win over Monaco as PSG celebrated clinching a sixth Ligue 1 crown in seven years.

Neymar banned for three Champions League matches

Police in Kenya have been left red-faced after thieves stole guns and ammunition from an unattended checkpost as the officers on duty watched <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cristiano-ronaldos-struggle-to-lionel-messis-double-major-takeaways-from-uefa-champions-league-quarter-finals-211344">UEFA Champions League matches</a> down the road.&nbsp;

Three rifles and nearly two dozen rounds were pinched from the checkpost Tuesday evening in Nandi, in Kenya's west, while the officers wandered off to watch Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi play in the UEFA quarter-finals on television at a nearby shopping mall.&nbsp;

"On returning... they noticed the room of the in-charge, which is also used as an armoury in which the steel box is kept, was broken," stated a police report into the incident seen by AFP.&nbsp;

A search was underway for the stolen firearms, the report added. It was not immediately clear if the officers faced disciplinary action.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dutch side Ajax upset Ronaldo's Juventus while Messi's Barcelona crushed Manchester United in Tuesday's quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Football, particularly the top European competitions, is hugely popular in Kenya and across the African continent.&nbsp;

Police in Kenya have been left red-faced after thieves stole guns and ammunition from an unattended checkpost as the officers on duty watched UEFA Champions League matches down the road.

Police in Kenya have been left red-faced after thieves stole guns and ammunition from an unattended checkpost as the officers on duty watched UEFA Champions League matches down the road. Three rifles and nearly two dozen rounds were pinched from the checkpost Tuesday evening in Nandi, in Kenya's west, while the officers wandered off to watch Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi play in the UEFA quarter-finals on television at a nearby shopping mall. "On returning... they noticed the room of the in-charge, which is also used as an armoury in which the steel box is kept, was broken," stated a police report into the incident seen by AFP. A search was underway for the stolen firearms, the report added. It was not immediately clear if the officers faced disciplinary action. Dutch side Ajax upset Ronaldo's Juventus while Messi's Barcelona crushed Manchester United in Tuesday's quarter-finals. Football, particularly the top European competitions, is hugely popular in Kenya and across the African continent.

Thieves steal guns and ammunition as police watch Champions League match in Kenya

From Cristiano Ronaldo's struggle to Lionel Messi's double, major takeaways from UEFA Champions League quarter-finals second-leg

Son Heung-min once again proved there is more to Tottenham Hotspur than Harry Kane as the South Korean's late goal secured a 1-0 home win over Manchester City in an absorbing Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

With Spurs talisman Kane having hobbled off injured and favourites City beginning to turn the screw, Son sent the home fans inside the London club's majestic new stadium into delirium as he fired past Ederson in the 78th minute.

It gave Tottenham a slender but precious advantage to take to City's Etihad Stadium next week when they will attempt to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time.

Quadruple-chasing City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes and they will rue Sergio Aguero's first-half penalty miss.

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 Hugo 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, but it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son's 78th-minute winner.

"As a team we never give up, we fight until 90 minutes. I think we deserved to win, we were more clinical than them," said Son, who last week scored the first Premier League goal in the 62,000-seat arena, and now owns the first European strike there.

"I like this stadium, it is amazing to play here, I am grateful for the opportunity to play at this stadium," he added.

Superb Stop

Tottenham fans in the 17,500 capacity South Stand displayed placards before kickoff spelling out the club's motto 'To Dare is To Do' -- and their team obliged, going toe-to-toe with a side who had won 21 of their last 23 games in all competitions.

Dele Alli volleyed Moussa Sissoko's cross over early on but Tottenham were then stopped in their tracks.

Raheem Sterling cut in and fired goalwards and Rose, diving to block, was harshly penalised for handball, courtesy of VAR, despite no City players even appealing for a penalty.

France international Lloris, who has come in for criticism this season, guessed right and made a superb stop.

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.

Tottenham worked hard to deny City time, with the once maligned Sissoko immense, but after England forward Kane hobbled off just before the hour mark with a worrying-looking ankle injury after a clash with City's surprise inclusion at left back Fabian Delph, the hosts appeared to be flagging.

City, for whom Sterling was a constant menace, were hunting an away goal but then Son, who has a knack of scoring for the side Guardiola once described as the "Harry Kane team" when their talisman has been sidelined, struck the decisive blow.

At first the Korean's control from Christian Eriksen's measured pass was sloppy, but Son retrieved the ball, then cut in from the byline and lashed a shot past Ederson.

Guardiola sent on De Bruyne and Sane in the 89th minute, but Tottenham survived six minutes of stoppage time to leave City with a stiff task next week.

"Sometimes 1-0 is better than 0-0, as you know exactly what you have to do," Guardiola, whose side lost to Liverpool in last season's quarter-finals after a 3-0 first-leg defeat, said.

"We have to go out to score goals."

Son Heung-min once again proved there is more to Tottenham Hotspur than Harry Kane as the South Korean's late goal secured a 1-0 home win over Manchester City in an absorbing Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

Son Heung-min once again proved there is more to Tottenham Hotspur than Harry Kane as the South Korean's late goal secured a 1-0 home win over Manchester City in an absorbing Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday. With Spurs talisman Kane having hobbled off injured and favourites City beginning to turn the screw, Son sent the home fans inside the London club's majestic new stadium into delirium as he fired past Ederson in the 78th minute. It gave Tottenham a slender but precious advantage to take to City's Etihad Stadium next week when they will attempt to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time. Quadruple-chasing City were not at their best as Spurs chased and harried Pep Guardiola's side for 90 minutes and they will rue Sergio Aguero's first-half penalty miss. 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 Hugo 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, but it was nothing compared to the sound that greeted Son's 78th-minute winner. "As a team we never give up, we fight until 90 minutes. I think we deserved to win, we were more clinical than them," said Son, who last week scored the first Premier League goal in the 62,000-seat arena, and now owns the first European strike there. "I like this stadium, it is amazing to play here, I am grateful for the opportunity to play at this stadium," he added. Superb Stop Tottenham fans in the 17,500 capacity South Stand displayed placards before kickoff spelling out the club's motto 'To Dare is To Do' -- and their team obliged, going toe-to-toe with a side who had won 21 of their last 23 games in all competitions. Dele Alli volleyed Moussa Sissoko's cross over early on but Tottenham were then stopped in their tracks. Raheem Sterling cut in and fired goalwards and Rose, diving to block, was harshly penalised for handball, courtesy of VAR, despite no City players even appealing for a penalty. France international Lloris, who has come in for criticism this season, guessed right and made a superb stop. 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. Tottenham worked hard to deny City time, with the once maligned Sissoko immense, but after England forward Kane hobbled off just before the hour mark with a worrying-looking ankle injury after a clash with City's surprise inclusion at left back Fabian Delph, the hosts appeared to be flagging. City, for whom Sterling was a constant menace, were hunting an away goal but then Son, who has a knack of scoring for the side Guardiola once described as the "Harry Kane team" when their talisman has been sidelined, struck the decisive blow. At first the Korean's control from Christian Eriksen's measured pass was sloppy, but Son retrieved the ball, then cut in from the byline and lashed a shot past Ederson. Guardiola sent on De Bruyne and Sane in the 89th minute, but Tottenham survived six minutes of stoppage time to leave City with a stiff task next week. "Sometimes 1-0 is better than 0-0, as you know exactly what you have to do," Guardiola, whose side lost to Liverpool in last season's quarter-finals after a 3-0 first-leg defeat, said. "We have to go out to score goals."

Champions League: Son Heung-min's late winner gives Tottenham edge over Manchester City

Gareth Southgate has called for education to stamp out racism in football as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-urged-to-take-strong-action-over-racist-incidents-in-england-match-205786">European governing body UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings </a>against Montenegro following abuse aimed at black England players during his side's 5-1 Euro 2020 qualifier win in Podgorica.

Raheem Sterling celebrated the fifth goal on Monday by cupping his ears towards the home fans as a sign of defiance, while Callum Hudson-Odoi said he and Danny Rose heard monkey noises aimed at them.

"Sanctions are worthless if there is nothing alongside that to help educate people," said England coach Southgate.

"My kids don't think for one minute about where people are born, what language they speak, what colour they are.

"There's an innocence about young people that is only influenced by older people. So we have to make sure that the education is right for everybody.

"In our country, (it's) the same. I've said this before, I'm not sitting here just criticising what's happened tonight because in our country we have the same issue. We're not free of it."

Sterling's fifth capped a fine performance in which Ross Barkley struck twice and Michael Keane and Harry Kane also scored as England overcame the hosts' early opener to seal an impressive victory.

England coach Southgate said the racist chanting had marred the win, which leaves England in charge of Group A following two big wins.

"What we have to do is make sure our players feel supported," Southgate told BBC Radio. "They know that the dressing room is there and we're there as a group of staff for them. We'll report the incidents through the correct channels. It's clear that so many people have heard it."

"We have to make sure that in our country we continue to make the strides and that we've got to trust the authorities to take the right action here."

Closure threat

UEFA regulations state that if supporters engage in racist behaviour then "the member association or club responsible is punished with a minimum of a partial stadium closure".

Article 14 also states that additional sanctions can be imposed depending on the situation, while "disciplinary measures may be combined with specific directives aimed at tackling such conduct".

UEFA said on Tuesday that disciplinary proceedings had been opened and charges against Montenegro including racist behaviour and crowd disturbances.

The case will be dealt with on May 16.

Sterling tweeted a picture of his goal celebration, saying: "Best way to silence the haters (and yeah I mean racists)".

"It's 2019 now, I keep saying it. It's a shame to see this going on and we can only bring awareness to the situation," he told Sky Sports.

"It's now time for the people in charge to put a real stamp on it because you can fine someone, but what is that going to do?"

Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) praised the England players for their reaction in a match it said it had designated as "high risk" prior to it taking place, and called for heavy sanctions.

"We commend the reaction of the England players involved. No human being should have to face abuse and vilification for their race or identity, something that many Montenegrins will understand from the divisive and bloody recent history of the Balkans," FARE said in a statement.

"We hope that UEFA will act decisively, the sanctions that could be applied for an offence of this kind range from a partial stadium closure to full stadium closure."

Kick It Out campaigner Troy Townsend said the incidents showed UEFA had "failed the game" in its handling of racist abuse

Gareth Southgate has called for education to stamp out racism in football as European governing body UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Montenegro following abuse aimed at black England players during his side's 5-1 Euro 2020 qualifier win in Podgorica.

Gareth Southgate has called for education to stamp out racism in football as European governing body UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Montenegro following abuse aimed at black England players during his side's 5-1 Euro 2020 qualifier win in Podgorica. Raheem Sterling celebrated the fifth goal on Monday by cupping his ears towards the home fans as a sign of defiance, while Callum Hudson-Odoi said he and Danny Rose heard monkey noises aimed at them. "Sanctions are worthless if there is nothing alongside that to help educate people," said England coach Southgate. "My kids don't think for one minute about where people are born, what language they speak, what colour they are. "There's an innocence about young people that is only influenced by older people. So we have to make sure that the education is right for everybody. "In our country, (it's) the same. I've said this before, I'm not sitting here just criticising what's happened tonight because in our country we have the same issue. We're not free of it." Sterling's fifth capped a fine performance in which Ross Barkley struck twice and Michael Keane and Harry Kane also scored as England overcame the hosts' early opener to seal an impressive victory. England coach Southgate said the racist chanting had marred the win, which leaves England in charge of Group A following two big wins. "What we have to do is make sure our players feel supported," Southgate told BBC Radio. "They know that the dressing room is there and we're there as a group of staff for them. We'll report the incidents through the correct channels. It's clear that so many people have heard it." "We have to make sure that in our country we continue to make the strides and that we've got to trust the authorities to take the right action here." Closure threat UEFA regulations state that if supporters engage in racist behaviour then "the member association or club responsible is punished with a minimum of a partial stadium closure". Article 14 also states that additional sanctions can be imposed depending on the situation, while "disciplinary measures may be combined with specific directives aimed at tackling such conduct". UEFA said on Tuesday that disciplinary proceedings had been opened and charges against Montenegro including racist behaviour and crowd disturbances. The case will be dealt with on May 16. Sterling tweeted a picture of his goal celebration, saying: "Best way to silence the haters (and yeah I mean racists)". "It's 2019 now, I keep saying it. It's a shame to see this going on and we can only bring awareness to the situation," he told Sky Sports. "It's now time for the people in charge to put a real stamp on it because you can fine someone, but what is that going to do?" Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) praised the England players for their reaction in a match it said it had designated as "high risk" prior to it taking place, and called for heavy sanctions. "We commend the reaction of the England players involved. No human being should have to face abuse and vilification for their race or identity, something that many Montenegrins will understand from the divisive and bloody recent history of the Balkans," FARE said in a statement. "We hope that UEFA will act decisively, the sanctions that could be applied for an offence of this kind range from a partial stadium closure to full stadium closure." Kick It Out campaigner Troy Townsend said the incidents showed UEFA had "failed the game" in its handling of racist abuse

Gareth Southgate condemns racism as UEFA charge Montenegro

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday.

Ahead of Friday's draw, European soccer's governing body said it would amend the scheduling if both Manchester clubs are drawn to play their home games in the same week.

UEFA said United, who finished below champions City in the Premier League last season, would have their fixture reversed.

The quarter-final first-legs will be played on April 9/10 with the return legs scheduled for April 16/17.

"Following a decision made by relevant local authorities, Manchester City and Manchester United cannot play at home on the same night, nor on consecutive nights," UEFA said.

"Should both clubs be drawn within the same sequence (home or away), the team having finished lower in the domestic league the previous season – in this case United - will be reversed in accordance with the UEFA Club Competitions Committee principles.

"In accordance with paragraph 21.01(b) of the UEFA Champions League regulations, the UEFA administration will determine which matches will be played on Tuesday, which matches on Wednesday."

UEFA said that the same rule would apply should both teams advance to the semi-finals.

There is also the possibility that derby rivals United and City could face each other in the quarter-finals or take on fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday.

Manchester City and Manchester United will not play their home games in next month's Champions League quarter-finals on the same or consecutive nights following a decision by local authorities, UEFA said on Thursday. Ahead of Friday's draw, European soccer's governing body said it would amend the scheduling if both Manchester clubs are drawn to play their home games in the same week. UEFA said United, who finished below champions City in the Premier League last season, would have their fixture reversed. The quarter-final first-legs will be played on April 9/10 with the return legs scheduled for April 16/17. "Following a decision made by relevant local authorities, Manchester City and Manchester United cannot play at home on the same night, nor on consecutive nights," UEFA said. "Should both clubs be drawn within the same sequence (home or away), the team having finished lower in the domestic league the previous season – in this case United - will be reversed in accordance with the UEFA Club Competitions Committee principles. "In accordance with paragraph 21.01(b) of the UEFA Champions League regulations, the UEFA administration will determine which matches will be played on Tuesday, which matches on Wednesday." UEFA said that the same rule would apply should both teams advance to the semi-finals. There is also the possibility that derby rivals United and City could face each other in the quarter-finals or take on fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

Manchester United could have Champions League fixtures reversed: UEFA

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