Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-alaba-confirms-he-will-leave-bayern-munich-at-the-end-of-season-364075" hreflang="en">David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season</a>

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds.

In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute.&nbsp;

Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner.

His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club.

"He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said.

"Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added.&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things.&nbsp;

He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe's hattrick helped Paris Saint Germain thrash Barcelona 4-1 in the first leg of Champions League last-16 on Tuesday. The massive away win for the French team have brought them very close to the quarter-finals of the tournament. ALSO READ: David Alaba confirms he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of season Barcelona captain Lionel Messi put the Catalan giants in front after scoring a penalty in the first half of the match, however, French striker Kylian Mbappe scored an equaliser with a classy piece of control and finishing to complete a flowing team move also involving Marco Verratti and Layvin Kurzawa, ending his goalless streak in tournament's knockout rounds. In the 65th minute, Mbappe scored his second goal, taking the club ahead in the match for the first time. Moise Kean extended the lead by scoring in the 70th minute. Mbappe completed his treble in the 85th minute by curling the ball past the German into the top corner. His coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the striker and said he is happy at the club. "He is top class, a great player and he is happy in our club," he said. "Kylian felt calm before the game. During yesterday's training session he asked me "how many times have you won at Camp Nou?" I replied in Spanish that just one and he said "well tomorrow you are going to win the second time" and now after the game, we met at the pitch and he said "I told you that you was going to win your second match, you have won your second time here," Pochettino added. Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman was left "disappointed" after the result and said that the team was lacking a lot of things. He said: "I'm going back home sad and disappointed above all due to the differences in the second half but I have said a few times that we are lacking a lot of things, especially for the level you need in the Champions League. This doesn't mean that we aren't in the right path but we have to be realistic because the team is changing. In many positions the squad is very young and we are missing important players and we were unable to stop them in the second half. We have to accept that, analyze it and improve."

UEFA Champions League: Kylian Mbappe's hattrick sinks Messi's Barcelona at Camp Nou

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday.

Clinical early second-half strikes from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, both courtesy of dreadful defensive errors, proved decisive and leave the German side facing a formidable task in the return leg on March 10.

The win moves Jurgen Klopp's men to the brink of the Champions League quarter-finals and also ends a run of three straight defeats that has left the English champions 13 points behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League.

"It was a game we wanted it was a game we needed tonight," Klopp told BT Sport afterwards.

"Leipzig can be a real monster. The way they play in the Bundesliga they overrun teams, they can be really physical in everything and tonight we controlled them in an exceptional way.

"They had their moments because of the quality they have but we controlled the game so tonight I think we got the result we deserved," he said.

The first leg was moved from Leipzig to the Hungarian capital due to Germany's strict Covid-19 travel restrictions.

Despite the enforced relocation,&nbsp;Julian Nagelsmann's side, on a four-game winning streak at home where they are second behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, started briskly and almost went ahead on four minutes.

Marauding left-back Angelino teed up fellow Spaniard Dani Olmo for a close-range diving header past Alisson but the effort only rattled the post.

Soon after Angelino again exploited space on the left but his left-footed volley skewed harmlessly across the goalmouth.

Instead it was Liverpool, striving to reverse their slump and badly in need of a Champions League lift, who gradually created more chances, often benefitting from loose defending.

First, Salah, busy throughout, forced a block from Leipzig's Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi on the quarter hour.

Ten minutes later Mane, outjumping Nordi Mukiele, headed a Firmino cross just over after the Brazilian striker and Salah had combined well on the right.

Shortly before half-time, Andy Robertson shaved the crossbar when his lob from distance almost caught out the Budapest-born Gulacsi dashing back after making a clearance outside his box.

Although Leipzig perked up on the restart with Alisson Becker saving from Christopher Nkunku, the German side, were made to pay for two calamitous mistakes early in the second half.

In the 53rd minute, Salah pounced on a sloppy back-pass by Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer and ran unchallenged to smoothly slot past Gulacsi.

Five minutes later, Mane doubled Liverpool's lead in similar fashion, smartly finishing after Mukiele had scuffed a clearance.

"We made two huge mistakes which would be punished at any level," Nagelsmann told DAZN.&nbsp;

"Mistakes happen, we didn't play badly and we have to live with the result, we have to score twice just to take the game (return leg) to extra time, but we will try to do our best," he said.

With Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg sidelined by a knee injury and lacking a talismanic goalscorer, Leipzig rarely threatened to pull one back.

Liverpool were left to cruise to victory, keeping alive their hopes of silverware via Champions League glory this season despite their domestic woes.

"We were for two years really good and then this year we had some problems," said Klopp.

"That's absolutely normal and I have no problem with that. It's just a lot of people probably expected us to slip again because of the situation and the boys didn't," he said.

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday.

Liverpool rediscovered lost form and seized the initiative against RB Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash by cruising to a 2-0 win in a chilly Budapest on Tuesday. Clinical early second-half strikes from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, both courtesy of dreadful defensive errors, proved decisive and leave the German side facing a formidable task in the return leg on March 10. The win moves Jurgen Klopp's men to the brink of the Champions League quarter-finals and also ends a run of three straight defeats that has left the English champions 13 points behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League. "It was a game we wanted it was a game we needed tonight," Klopp told BT Sport afterwards. "Leipzig can be a real monster. The way they play in the Bundesliga they overrun teams, they can be really physical in everything and tonight we controlled them in an exceptional way. "They had their moments because of the quality they have but we controlled the game so tonight I think we got the result we deserved," he said. The first leg was moved from Leipzig to the Hungarian capital due to Germany's strict Covid-19 travel restrictions. Despite the enforced relocation, Julian Nagelsmann's side, on a four-game winning streak at home where they are second behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga, started briskly and almost went ahead on four minutes. Marauding left-back Angelino teed up fellow Spaniard Dani Olmo for a close-range diving header past Alisson but the effort only rattled the post. Soon after Angelino again exploited space on the left but his left-footed volley skewed harmlessly across the goalmouth. Instead it was Liverpool, striving to reverse their slump and badly in need of a Champions League lift, who gradually created more chances, often benefitting from loose defending. First, Salah, busy throughout, forced a block from Leipzig's Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi on the quarter hour. Ten minutes later Mane, outjumping Nordi Mukiele, headed a Firmino cross just over after the Brazilian striker and Salah had combined well on the right. Shortly before half-time, Andy Robertson shaved the crossbar when his lob from distance almost caught out the Budapest-born Gulacsi dashing back after making a clearance outside his box. Although Leipzig perked up on the restart with Alisson Becker saving from Christopher Nkunku, the German side, were made to pay for two calamitous mistakes early in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Salah pounced on a sloppy back-pass by Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer and ran unchallenged to smoothly slot past Gulacsi. Five minutes later, Mane doubled Liverpool's lead in similar fashion, smartly finishing after Mukiele had scuffed a clearance. "We made two huge mistakes which would be punished at any level," Nagelsmann told DAZN. "Mistakes happen, we didn't play badly and we have to live with the result, we have to score twice just to take the game (return leg) to extra time, but we will try to do our best," he said. With Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg sidelined by a knee injury and lacking a talismanic goalscorer, Leipzig rarely threatened to pull one back. Liverpool were left to cruise to victory, keeping alive their hopes of silverware via Champions League glory this season despite their domestic woes. "We were for two years really good and then this year we had some problems," said Klopp. "That's absolutely normal and I have no problem with that. It's just a lot of people probably expected us to slip again because of the situation and the boys didn't," he said.

Liverpool seize control over RB Leipzig in Budapest

Barcelona&nbsp;are&nbsp;set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp&nbsp;Nou&nbsp;in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The transfer speculations surrounding Messi and PSG makes the tie even more interesting. Barcelona would be missing a range of the key players with the likes of&nbsp;Ansu Fati, Philippe Coutinho, Sergi Roberto, Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo, and Martin Braithwaite&nbsp;set to miss the match. Whereas&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;would be without the&nbsp;likes of&nbsp;of Neymar. Angel Di Maria, Juan Bernat, and Timothee&nbsp;Pembele.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4a5b34ed-d39b-4912-86bb-8b52f5471ec1}{227}" paraid="841857320" >When is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16&nbsp;match?&nbsp;</h2>

The&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 clash will take place on Wednesday, February 17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{71}" paraid="1881706658" >What are the timings of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will start at 01:30 AM IST.&nbsp;

<h3 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{98}" paraid="762547755" >Where is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match being played?&nbsp;</h3>

The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be&nbsp;hosted&nbsp;by&nbsp;the Camp&nbsp;Nou.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c0262c65-f393-4700-9126-4bf4a68421f1}{125}" paraid="807155670" >Which TV channel will&nbsp;telecast&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

Sony will broadcast the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 matches LIVE in India this season. The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain will be LIVE on Sony Ten channels.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{71b5fb69-417d-4175-96cc-31ec3fe74131}{113}" paraid="498332661" >Where to watch live-streaming of&nbsp;Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match?&nbsp;</h2>

The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be live-streamed by Sony Liv.&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp Nou in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Barcelona are set to host Paris Saint-Germain at the Camp Nou in what promises to be a cracking contest in round of 16 of UEFA Champions League. The UCL match between Barcelona and PSG is one of the most-awaited clashes from the round of 16 draw with Lionel Messi set to face a plethora of stars at PSG under manager Mauricio Pochettino. The transfer speculations surrounding Messi and PSG makes the tie even more interesting. Barcelona would be missing a range of the key players with the likes of Ansu Fati, Philippe Coutinho, Sergi Roberto, Gerard Pique, Ronald Araujo, and Martin Braithwaite set to miss the match. Whereas PSG would be without the likes of of Neymar. Angel Di Maria, Juan Bernat, and Timothee Pembele. When is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 clash will take place on Wednesday, February 17. What are the timings of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will start at 01:30 AM IST. Where is Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match being played? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be hosted by the Camp Nou. Which TV channel will telecast Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? Sony will broadcast the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 matches LIVE in India this season. The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain will be LIVE on Sony Ten channels. Where to watch live-streaming of Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match? The Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 match will be live-streamed by Sony Liv.

Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain Live Streaming UCL: When and where to watch live streaming of Barca vs PSG 1st leg

Lionel Messi put his arm around Ilaix Moriba, the 18-year-old born in the same year Messi made his Barcelona debut and who was now being given his own chance to play for the club's first team.

Ilaix had just set up the opening goal against Alaves on Saturday when he was congratulated by his 33-year-old captain, whose task it is on Tuesday to lead this youthful Barca to an unfancied victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16.

From nurturing the next generation of Barcelona talents to confronting one of Europe's richest, most ambitious clubs, the fork in the road for Messi's future is becoming clear.

PSG may not be Messi's preferred choice this summer, especially if Manchester City decide the Argentinian is the final piece of the jigsaw for a team already ahead of the rest in the Premier League.

But the two clubs remain his most realistic destinations, both united in representing almost everything that staying put at Barcelona would not. Clubs ready, in theory, to win the biggest trophies immediately and able to spend whatever it takes to do it.

Meanwhile Messi's suspicions in August, when he sent the burofax requesting he depart for free, have arguably been confirmed. Barcelona appear neither ready to win the biggest trophies immediately nor able to spend what is needed to do it.

As it stands, Koeman's team sit third in La Liga, eight points behind Atletico Madrid. They were beaten by Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup and trail Sevilla 2-0 after the semi-final first leg of the Copa del Rey.

And yet while nobody knows what Messi will decide, perhaps not even Messi -- who told La Sexta in December he "wouldn't be right to say what I'm going to do because I don't know either" -- there is reason to think Barca's chances have not only survived the disappointments but been improved in spite of them.

<h2>- Barcelona stabilised -</h2>

When Messi explained to goal.com why he wanted to go last summer, he reiterated his desire for a "winning project" but also said he "wanted to live my last years in football happily". He admitted how hard it was to tell his family they were leaving.

For the first few weeks of the season, he seemed distracted, like a player giving his all while simultaneously wishing he was somewhere else.&nbsp;

Yet Barcelona stabilised under Koeman -- never perfect and always far from the finished article -- but with a renewed sense of purpose emerging.

Koeman has enabled struggling players to flourish and promising youngsters to shine.

Pedri, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder, has stood out, his eye for a pass chiming with Messi's quickness of thought.

"In Pedri, Messi has found a reason to enjoy the game again," wrote Diario Sport in January.

Ansu Fati sparkled before injury struck in November while&nbsp;in defence, the 21-year-old Ronald Araujo, who is also expected to miss the first leg with an ankle problem, emerged as Koeman's most reliable central defender.

Frenkie de Jong has excelled in recent weeks and Ousmane Dembele is enjoying his best spell at the club so far.&nbsp;Messi, like the team, has looked happy.

"He is focused, he is happy, he has found that ruthless streak again," said Koeman on Saturday.

Excitement may prove misplaced or, at least, premature given there are no guarantees Barcelona's depleted defence will not cave against PSG and Kylian Mbappe, even with Neymar absent.

Another humbling in Europe may not undo the good work Koeman has done but it would serve as a painful reminder to Messi of past failures and ground to make up.

A positive result could do the opposite, providing affirmation of steps already taken and evidence that a move even to the richest clubs would bring no guarantees.

Most importantly, there is an opportunity to rubberstamp what Koeman has started and to confirm the growing sense of a club slowly rebuilding again.

With presidential elections due next month, the reality is Koeman may not see this transition through but Messi can decide if his role in any revival will be fleeting or more fundamental.

"There is only one person who can choose his future and it is him," said Koeman. "I would like him to stay for many more years and I'm trying to make sure he is happy like he is now. But his future is in his hands."

Lionel Messi put his arm around Ilaix Moriba, the 18-year-old born in the same year Messi made his Barcelona debut and who was now being given his own chance to play for the club's first team.

Lionel Messi put his arm around Ilaix Moriba, the 18-year-old born in the same year Messi made his Barcelona debut and who was now being given his own chance to play for the club's first team. Ilaix had just set up the opening goal against Alaves on Saturday when he was congratulated by his 33-year-old captain, whose task it is on Tuesday to lead this youthful Barca to an unfancied victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16. From nurturing the next generation of Barcelona talents to confronting one of Europe's richest, most ambitious clubs, the fork in the road for Messi's future is becoming clear. PSG may not be Messi's preferred choice this summer, especially if Manchester City decide the Argentinian is the final piece of the jigsaw for a team already ahead of the rest in the Premier League. But the two clubs remain his most realistic destinations, both united in representing almost everything that staying put at Barcelona would not. Clubs ready, in theory, to win the biggest trophies immediately and able to spend whatever it takes to do it. Meanwhile Messi's suspicions in August, when he sent the burofax requesting he depart for free, have arguably been confirmed. Barcelona appear neither ready to win the biggest trophies immediately nor able to spend what is needed to do it. As it stands, Koeman's team sit third in La Liga, eight points behind Atletico Madrid. They were beaten by Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Super Cup and trail Sevilla 2-0 after the semi-final first leg of the Copa del Rey. And yet while nobody knows what Messi will decide, perhaps not even Messi -- who told La Sexta in December he "wouldn't be right to say what I'm going to do because I don't know either" -- there is reason to think Barca's chances have not only survived the disappointments but been improved in spite of them. - Barcelona stabilised - When Messi explained to goal.com why he wanted to go last summer, he reiterated his desire for a "winning project" but also said he "wanted to live my last years in football happily". He admitted how hard it was to tell his family they were leaving. For the first few weeks of the season, he seemed distracted, like a player giving his all while simultaneously wishing he was somewhere else. Yet Barcelona stabilised under Koeman -- never perfect and always far from the finished article -- but with a renewed sense of purpose emerging. Koeman has enabled struggling players to flourish and promising youngsters to shine. Pedri, the 18-year-old attacking midfielder, has stood out, his eye for a pass chiming with Messi's quickness of thought. "In Pedri, Messi has found a reason to enjoy the game again," wrote Diario Sport in January. Ansu Fati sparkled before injury struck in November while in defence, the 21-year-old Ronald Araujo, who is also expected to miss the first leg with an ankle problem, emerged as Koeman's most reliable central defender. Frenkie de Jong has excelled in recent weeks and Ousmane Dembele is enjoying his best spell at the club so far. Messi, like the team, has looked happy. "He is focused, he is happy, he has found that ruthless streak again," said Koeman on Saturday. Excitement may prove misplaced or, at least, premature given there are no guarantees Barcelona's depleted defence will not cave against PSG and Kylian Mbappe, even with Neymar absent. Another humbling in Europe may not undo the good work Koeman has done but it would serve as a painful reminder to Messi of past failures and ground to make up. A positive result could do the opposite, providing affirmation of steps already taken and evidence that a move even to the richest clubs would bring no guarantees. Most importantly, there is an opportunity to rubberstamp what Koeman has started and to confirm the growing sense of a club slowly rebuilding again. With presidential elections due next month, the reality is Koeman may not see this transition through but Messi can decide if his role in any revival will be fleeting or more fundamental. "There is only one person who can choose his future and it is him," said Koeman. "I would like him to stay for many more years and I'm trying to make sure he is happy like he is now. But his future is in his hands."

Messi 'happy' leading Barca revival but PSG a reminder of what could await

RB Leipzig head coach Julian Nagelsmann is refusing to read too much into the Liverpool's poor recent results ahead of Tuesday's Champions League showdown in Budapest.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have won just three of their last 12 games and fly to Budapest for the last 16, first-leg tie against Leipzig on the back of three straight Premier League defeats.

On Saturday, Klopp admitted he does not think Liverpool can defend their Premier League title by closing the 13-point gap on leaders Manchester City after his side's 3-1 defeat at Leicester City.

In contrast, Leipzig are only second in the Bundesliga behind world champions Bayern Munich after winning their last three league games.&nbsp;

However, Leipzig boss Nagelsmann says Liverpool's poor Premier League form counts for little in Budapest.

"I don't think I need to warn my side about facing a wounded boxer - they know (Liverpool) is a world-class team," Nagelsmann told reports Monday.

"They don't have the results crisis in the Champions League, but in the Premier League.

"It's a completely different competition, they have crossed off the (Premier League) title and their focus is now only on the Champions League, where they can still win a title.

"They will try to shake off the negative things," Nagelsmann added with the first leg moved from Leipzig to Budapest due to Germany's Covid-19 travel restrictions.

"We have been warned - it'll come down to form on the day."

On Tuesday, Nagelsmann will be without Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg, who has failed to recover from a knee injury.

"He, unfortunately, won't make it - he still has problems changing direction when running," Nagelsmann revealed.

With Forsberg out, Dani Olmo is likely to play in the attacking midfield with Yussuf Poulsen and Christopher Nkunku up front for Leipzig.

RB Leipzig head coach Julian Nagelsmann is refusing to read too much into the Liverpool's poor recent results ahead of Tuesday's Champions League showdown in Budapest.

RB Leipzig head coach Julian Nagelsmann is refusing to read too much into the Liverpool's poor recent results ahead of Tuesday's Champions League showdown in Budapest. Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have won just three of their last 12 games and fly to Budapest for the last 16, first-leg tie against Leipzig on the back of three straight Premier League defeats. On Saturday, Klopp admitted he does not think Liverpool can defend their Premier League title by closing the 13-point gap on leaders Manchester City after his side's 3-1 defeat at Leicester City. In contrast, Leipzig are only second in the Bundesliga behind world champions Bayern Munich after winning their last three league games. However, Leipzig boss Nagelsmann says Liverpool's poor Premier League form counts for little in Budapest. "I don't think I need to warn my side about facing a wounded boxer - they know (Liverpool) is a world-class team," Nagelsmann told reports Monday. "They don't have the results crisis in the Champions League, but in the Premier League. "It's a completely different competition, they have crossed off the (Premier League) title and their focus is now only on the Champions League, where they can still win a title. "They will try to shake off the negative things," Nagelsmann added with the first leg moved from Leipzig to Budapest due to Germany's Covid-19 travel restrictions. "We have been warned - it'll come down to form on the day." On Tuesday, Nagelsmann will be without Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg, who has failed to recover from a knee injury. "He, unfortunately, won't make it - he still has problems changing direction when running," Nagelsmann revealed. With Forsberg out, Dani Olmo is likely to play in the attacking midfield with Yussuf Poulsen and Christopher Nkunku up front for Leipzig.

Leipzig boss Nagelsmann wary of Liverpool despite results

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday.

The first-leg tie will be staged at the Arena Nationala in the Romanian capital.

Chelsea said in a statement on their website that the date of the match, February 23, and the kick-off time (2000 GMT) would remain the same.

The second leg is scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge in London on March 17.

It is the latest European match to be switched to a different venue as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Spanish government on Tuesday extended a ban on arrivals by air from Britain, Brazil and South Africa until March 2 over new variants.

Only legal residents or nationals of Spain and the neighbouring micro-state of Andorra are currently allowed in on flights from those countries.

In changes previously announced, Manchester City's first leg of their Champions League tie against Borussia Moenchengladbach will be played in Budapest while Liverpool's match against RB Leipzig has also been relocated to the Hungarian capital.

The Champions League, Europe's top club competition, was heavily disrupted by the pandemic last season.

It was placed on hold when sport across Europe was halted in March.&nbsp;

UEFA then took the decision to complete the competition as a "Final Eight" tournament in Lisbon in August, without spectators. Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the final.

There have also been changes in this season's Europa League as a result of virus rules.

Arsenal and Manchester United have had the first legs of their last-32 matches moved.

The Gunners will take on Benfica in Rome, while United's meeting with Real Sociedad has been switched from San Sebastian to Turin.

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday.

Atletico Madrid's home match against Chelsea in the Champions League last-16 has been moved from Spain to Bucharest as a result of coronavirus restrictions, UEFA confirmed on Wednesday. The first-leg tie will be staged at the Arena Nationala in the Romanian capital. Chelsea said in a statement on their website that the date of the match, February 23, and the kick-off time (2000 GMT) would remain the same. The second leg is scheduled to take place at Stamford Bridge in London on March 17. It is the latest European match to be switched to a different venue as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Spanish government on Tuesday extended a ban on arrivals by air from Britain, Brazil and South Africa until March 2 over new variants. Only legal residents or nationals of Spain and the neighbouring micro-state of Andorra are currently allowed in on flights from those countries. In changes previously announced, Manchester City's first leg of their Champions League tie against Borussia Moenchengladbach will be played in Budapest while Liverpool's match against RB Leipzig has also been relocated to the Hungarian capital. The Champions League, Europe's top club competition, was heavily disrupted by the pandemic last season. It was placed on hold when sport across Europe was halted in March. UEFA then took the decision to complete the competition as a "Final Eight" tournament in Lisbon in August, without spectators. Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the final. There have also been changes in this season's Europa League as a result of virus rules. Arsenal and Manchester United have had the first legs of their last-32 matches moved. The Gunners will take on Benfica in Rome, while United's meeting with Real Sociedad has been switched from San Sebastian to Turin.

Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules.

"On Monday, we requested an exemption for Liverpool's entry into the country," said Leipzig spokesman Till Mueller.&nbsp;

The Bundesliga club are set to host English champions Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 game on February 16, but the match has been thrown into doubt by a partial travel ban which Germany introduced last weekend.&nbsp;

The new rules, slated to last until the day after the game, ban travellers from countries hit by new, more contagious coronavirus variants such as Britain.

Though there are some exceptions for medical workers and others in key professions, an interior ministry spokesperson told AFP on Monday that the new rules contained "no special provision for professional sportspeople".

Yet Mueller said Leipzig were working on a solution to the problem.

"We are of course in discussions with the authorities, with Liverpool and with UEFA," he said, adding that the club had filed an exemption request with the federal police.&nbsp;

"We hope that we receive a quick response because a lot depends on this," he added.

According to German media reports, UEFA's regulations decree that Leipzig must find a way of hosting the match or risk forfeiting it as a 3-0 defeat.

Potential solutions include playing the game at a neutral ground outside of Germany, or switching the home and away legs of the tie.

Yet Leipzig club bosses insisted that they were optimistic that the game would go ahead as planned.

"It is not our aim to play the game in St. Petersburg or elsewhere," club director Oliver Mintzlaff told Bild.&nbsp;

Commercial director Florian Scholz added that the club were "working on the assumption that Liverpool can enter the country".&nbsp;

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules.

RB Leipzig said Tuesday that they have asked the German authorities to grant Champions League opponents Liverpool an exemption to strict new German coronavirus entry rules. "On Monday, we requested an exemption for Liverpool's entry into the country," said Leipzig spokesman Till Mueller. The Bundesliga club are set to host English champions Liverpool in a Champions League last-16 game on February 16, but the match has been thrown into doubt by a partial travel ban which Germany introduced last weekend. The new rules, slated to last until the day after the game, ban travellers from countries hit by new, more contagious coronavirus variants such as Britain. Though there are some exceptions for medical workers and others in key professions, an interior ministry spokesperson told AFP on Monday that the new rules contained "no special provision for professional sportspeople". Yet Mueller said Leipzig were working on a solution to the problem. "We are of course in discussions with the authorities, with Liverpool and with UEFA," he said, adding that the club had filed an exemption request with the federal police. "We hope that we receive a quick response because a lot depends on this," he added. According to German media reports, UEFA's regulations decree that Leipzig must find a way of hosting the match or risk forfeiting it as a 3-0 defeat. Potential solutions include playing the game at a neutral ground outside of Germany, or switching the home and away legs of the tie. Yet Leipzig club bosses insisted that they were optimistic that the game would go ahead as planned. "It is not our aim to play the game in St. Petersburg or elsewhere," club director Oliver Mintzlaff told Bild. Commercial director Florian Scholz added that the club were "working on the assumption that Liverpool can enter the country".

Leipzig seek Liverpool travel exemption for Champions League tie

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 took place on Monday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. Defending UEFA Champions League winners Bayern Munich will take on Lazio whereas FC Liverpool are set to take on RB Leipzig in what promises to be a thrilling contest.&nbsp;

Barcelona are set to take on Paris Saint-Germain in a blocbuster clash while Manchester City will face Borussia Monchengladbach.

The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 draw featured the eight group winners (seeded) and eight runners-up (unseeded). The seeded teams will play at home in the second legs with no teams playing a club from their UEFA Champions League group or a club from the same national association

Seeded teams

Bayern (GER, Group A) 
Real Madrid (ESP, Group B) 
Manchester City (ENG, C) 
Liverpool (ENG, D) 
Chelsea (ENG, E) 
Borussia Dortmund (GER, F) 
Juventus (ITA, G) 
Paris (FRA, H)

Unseeded teams

Atlético (ESP, A) 
Borussia Mönchengladbach (GER, B) 
Porto (POR, C) 
Atalanta (ITA, D) 
Sevilla (ESP, E) 
Lazio (ITA, F) 
Barcelona (ESP, G) 
Leipzig (GER, H)

<h2>UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 draw in full:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Borussia Monchengladbach vs Manchester City</li>
	<li>Lazio vs FC Bayern Munich</li>
	<li>Atletico Madrid vs Chelsea</li>
	<li>RB Leipzig vs FC Liverpool</li>
	<li>FC Porto vs Juventus</li>
	<li>FC Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain</li>
	<li>Sevilla FC vs Borussia Dortmund</li>
	<li>Atalanta vs Real Madrid</li>
</ul>

The round of 16 first legs are scheduled for 16/17/23/24 February, with the second legs on 9/10/16/17 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET. The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 19 March.

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 took place on Monday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. Defending UEFA Champions League winners Bayern Munich will take on Lazio whereas FC Liverpool are set to take on RB Leipzig in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 took place on Monday at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. Defending UEFA Champions League winners Bayern Munich will take on Lazio whereas FC Liverpool are set to take on RB Leipzig in what promises to be a thrilling contest. Barcelona are set to take on Paris Saint-Germain in a blocbuster clash while Manchester City will face Borussia Monchengladbach. The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 draw featured the eight group winners (seeded) and eight runners-up (unseeded). The seeded teams will play at home in the second legs with no teams playing a club from their UEFA Champions League group or a club from the same national association Seeded teams Bayern (GER, Group A) Real Madrid (ESP, Group B) Manchester City (ENG, C) Liverpool (ENG, D) Chelsea (ENG, E) Borussia Dortmund (GER, F) Juventus (ITA, G) Paris (FRA, H) Unseeded teams Atlético (ESP, A) Borussia Mönchengladbach (GER, B) Porto (POR, C) Atalanta (ITA, D) Sevilla (ESP, E) Lazio (ITA, F) Barcelona (ESP, G) Leipzig (GER, H) UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Round of 16 draw in full: Borussia Monchengladbach vs Manchester City Lazio vs FC Bayern Munich Atletico Madrid vs Chelsea RB Leipzig vs FC Liverpool FC Porto vs Juventus FC Barcelona vs Paris Saint-Germain Sevilla FC vs Borussia Dortmund Atalanta vs Real Madrid The round of 16 first legs are scheduled for 16/17/23/24 February, with the second legs on 9/10/16/17 March. Kick-offs are at 21:00 CET. The draw for the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final is on 19 March.

UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draw: Barcelona to face PSG - Check full fixtures

Real Madrid topped the group after beating Borussia Moenchengladbach 2-0 in their best performance in UEFA Champions League this season. Zinedine Zidane's side were nearly knocked out after losing twice against Shakhtar making it a crucial win over Moenchengladbach.&nbsp;

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"We played a spectacular game from the first minute to the last," Zidane told reporters.

"We interpreted the game very well, I think it was the most complete performance of the season."

Karim Benzema's brace in the first half put Madrid on top. Despite the loss, Gladbach came in second and have qualified for the Round of 16.&nbsp;

The French coach praised his side's capacity to perform when backed into a corner, also emphasising the importance of winning the group and avoiding the best sides left in the competition in the next round.

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"We don't just play well under pressure, we have played well in other games too but it's true that this team has this ability to come into their own when the going gets tough," Zidane said.

"I've been a player and it's impossible to play like this all the time. We try to but sometimes it doesn't come off. I'm very happy for the players, because they are the most important members of this squad."

He added: "It was fundamental that we finished first, it's the first time that has happened since I've been coach."

Real Madrid topped the group after beating Borussia Moenchengladbach 2-0 in their best performance in UEFA Champions League this season. Zinedine Zidane's side were nearly knocked out after losing twice against Shakhtar making it a crucial win over Moenchengladbach.

Real Madrid topped the group after beating Borussia Moenchengladbach 2-0 in their best performance in UEFA Champions League this season. Zinedine Zidane's side were nearly knocked out after losing twice against Shakhtar making it a crucial win over Moenchengladbach. Also read: Manchester United favourites to win Europa League, says Jose Mourinho "We played a spectacular game from the first minute to the last," Zidane told reporters. "We interpreted the game very well, I think it was the most complete performance of the season." Karim Benzema's brace in the first half put Madrid on top. Despite the loss, Gladbach came in second and have qualified for the Round of 16. The French coach praised his side's capacity to perform when backed into a corner, also emphasising the importance of winning the group and avoiding the best sides left in the competition in the next round. Also read: 'Spray' experiment in Netherlands' biggest football stadium could bring back crowds "We don't just play well under pressure, we have played well in other games too but it's true that this team has this ability to come into their own when the going gets tough," Zidane said. "I've been a player and it's impossible to play like this all the time. We try to but sometimes it doesn't come off. I'm very happy for the players, because they are the most important members of this squad." He added: "It was fundamental that we finished first, it's the first time that has happened since I've been coach."

Benzema's brace helps Real Madrid beat Gladbach and progress into next round

Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Cameroon-born Moukoko, who made his European debut as a 58th-minute substitute in Russia, broke the previous record of Celestine Babayaro, who was 16 years and 87 days when he played for Anderlecht in November 1994.

Dortmund, who had already qualified for the last 16, equalised within minutes of Moukoko's introduction, with Lukasz Piszczek cancelling out Sebastian Driussi's first-half goal.

Axel Witsel's low shot from the edge of the area on 78 minutes won the game for Dortmund as they secured top spot ahead of Lazio in Group F.

"It was an ugly win that was more about our mentality than our quality, but you have to win games like this too," Dortmund captain Marco Reus told DAZN.

"With all the injuries on top of that too, a win like tonight and finishing top of the group feels good."

Moukoko, who has already played for Germany Under-20s, broke a record for the second time in three weeks, having become the Bundesliga's youngest player on November 21, the day after his 16th birthday.

He has been promoted to Dortmund's senior squad after smashing scoring records in German youth football, having initially moved to Hamburg, his father's home city, from Cameroon in 2014.

Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, aged 16 years and 18 days, became the youngest player in Champions League history on Tuesday when he came off the bench in a 2-1 victory away to Zenit Saint Petersburg. Cameroon-born Moukoko, who made his European debut as a 58th-minute substitute in Russia, broke the previous record of Celestine Babayaro, who was 16 years and 87 days when he played for Anderlecht in November 1994. Dortmund, who had already qualified for the last 16, equalised within minutes of Moukoko's introduction, with Lukasz Piszczek cancelling out Sebastian Driussi's first-half goal. Axel Witsel's low shot from the edge of the area on 78 minutes won the game for Dortmund as they secured top spot ahead of Lazio in Group F. "It was an ugly win that was more about our mentality than our quality, but you have to win games like this too," Dortmund captain Marco Reus told DAZN. "With all the injuries on top of that too, a win like tonight and finishing top of the group feels good." Moukoko, who has already played for Germany Under-20s, broke a record for the second time in three weeks, having become the Bundesliga's youngest player on November 21, the day after his 16th birthday. He has been promoted to Dortmund's senior squad after smashing scoring records in German youth football, having initially moved to Hamburg, his father's home city, from Cameroon in 2014.

Moukoko, 16, becomes youngest Champions League player in Dortmund win

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16.

Leipzig were 3-0 up mid-way through the second half thanks to goals by Manchester City loanee Angelino, Amadou Haidara and Justin Kluivert at the Red Bull Arena.

United pulled back goals in the final ten minutes as Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty and replacement Paul Pogba scored with a deflected header, but Leipzig held on.

"We didn't front up until they scored the second goal," said Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

"We knew they would come at us and put crosses into the box, but we conceded two early goals and never got going."

The German club's victory avenged their 5-0 drubbing by United at Old Trafford in October.

"The boys fought hard, they are machines," said delighted Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Leipzig needed just two minutes to take the lead after Angelino's stunning opener.

"It feels very good. We made it difficult until the last minute, but at the end of the day we stayed strong," the Spanish fullback said.

"I'm so happy that we got the win."

Solskjaer made five changes from the side which won 3-1 at West Ham at the weekend, including Luke Shaw at left-back for his 150th appearance after recovering from a hamstring injury.

Pogba, whose agent has said the midfielder is "unhappy" at Old Trafford, started on the bench, but his late header gave United hope in Germany.

The hosts took the lead with just two minutes gone as Marcel Sabitzer's cross-field pass was met by left-back Angelino and his left-foot strike flew past David de Gea.

The United goalkeeper was beaten again on 13 minutes when Haidara finished a move he started by volleying home.

It could have been 3-0 moments later when Emil Forsberg ahot wide from close range with the goal at his mercy.

A speculative Mason Greenwood header and a half-chance by Marcus Rushford were all United produced in the opening half hour.

Leipzig had a goal disallowed when Ibrahima Konate headed onto the post and Willi Orban tapped home only to ruled offside by VAR.

United tightened their defence in the second half with Donny van de Beek replacing left winger Alex Telles, while Pogba came on for the final half hour.

United threatened as Fernandes fired wide and then hit the post, just before more poor defending allowed the hosts to grab their third goal.

Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann boosted his attack by bringing on forwards Yussuf Poulsen and Kluivert, who snapped up a Sabitzer cross and chipped De Gea with 69 minutes gone.&nbsp;

There was drama in the closing stages after Konate brought Greenwood down and Fernandes converted the penalty on 80 minutes.

Pogba then met a Fernandes deep corner unmarked at the far post and his header deflected off Konate to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes, but Leipzig held on in the tense closing exchanges.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted his side struggled to cope with conceding two early goals as they crashed out of the Champions League on Tuesday with a 3-2 defeat at RB Leipzig who reached the last 16. Leipzig were 3-0 up mid-way through the second half thanks to goals by Manchester City loanee Angelino, Amadou Haidara and Justin Kluivert at the Red Bull Arena. United pulled back goals in the final ten minutes as Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty and replacement Paul Pogba scored with a deflected header, but Leipzig held on. "We didn't front up until they scored the second goal," said Man Utd manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "We knew they would come at us and put crosses into the box, but we conceded two early goals and never got going." The German club's victory avenged their 5-0 drubbing by United at Old Trafford in October. "The boys fought hard, they are machines," said delighted Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann. Leipzig needed just two minutes to take the lead after Angelino's stunning opener. "It feels very good. We made it difficult until the last minute, but at the end of the day we stayed strong," the Spanish fullback said. "I'm so happy that we got the win." Solskjaer made five changes from the side which won 3-1 at West Ham at the weekend, including Luke Shaw at left-back for his 150th appearance after recovering from a hamstring injury. Pogba, whose agent has said the midfielder is "unhappy" at Old Trafford, started on the bench, but his late header gave United hope in Germany. The hosts took the lead with just two minutes gone as Marcel Sabitzer's cross-field pass was met by left-back Angelino and his left-foot strike flew past David de Gea. The United goalkeeper was beaten again on 13 minutes when Haidara finished a move he started by volleying home. It could have been 3-0 moments later when Emil Forsberg ahot wide from close range with the goal at his mercy. A speculative Mason Greenwood header and a half-chance by Marcus Rushford were all United produced in the opening half hour. Leipzig had a goal disallowed when Ibrahima Konate headed onto the post and Willi Orban tapped home only to ruled offside by VAR. United tightened their defence in the second half with Donny van de Beek replacing left winger Alex Telles, while Pogba came on for the final half hour. United threatened as Fernandes fired wide and then hit the post, just before more poor defending allowed the hosts to grab their third goal. Leipzig coach Julian Nagelsmann boosted his attack by bringing on forwards Yussuf Poulsen and Kluivert, who snapped up a Sabitzer cross and chipped De Gea with 69 minutes gone. There was drama in the closing stages after Konate brought Greenwood down and Fernandes converted the penalty on 80 minutes. Pogba then met a Fernandes deep corner unmarked at the far post and his header deflected off Konate to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes, but Leipzig held on in the tense closing exchanges.

Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G.

The former Real Madrid striker and his Argentina counterpart traded Ballon d'Or wins for a decade between 2008-2017 and were figureheads for the duelling Spanish giants, but there was only one winner at the Camp Nou as they met for the first time since Ronaldo's departure for Juve in 2018.

Andrea Pirlo's Juventus lost 2-0 at home against Barcelona in October without Ronaldo, sidelined with Covid-19, but were greatly improved and earned the first Champions League away win against Barcelona since Bayern Munich triumphed in 2013.

Both sides, tied on 15 points, were assured of qualification before kick-off, but Juve's three-goal victory handed them a superior head-to-head record.

"When you have this desire to sacrifice yourself and an infallible sniper, like Ronaldo, you are sure you can win these matches," Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia.

"As we showed in the derby (win over Torino), if we play with this desire, we bring home the results we want. The next step is to do this in all our games."

Ronald Koeman, reeling from Barcelona's 2-1 defeat by promoted minnows Cadiz on Saturday in La Liga, reacted by making four changes but the hosts started badly.

It only took 13 minutes for Ronaldo to break the deadlock, slotting home from the penalty spot after the referee deemed Ronald Araujo's challenge on him a foul.

Juventus did not relent and their pressure led to a second goal, US midfielder Weston McKennie volleying home Juan Cuadrado's sweetly clipped cross in the 20th minute.

The Catalans and their captain Messi finally woke from their slumber, as the attacker had one effort blocked by Matthijs de Ligt and another saved by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, while Pjanic lashed over the bar.

Ronaldo notched his second from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute after Clement Lenglet handled clumsily in the area, as the hosts imploded.

Antoine Griezmann, who was invisible in the first half, grazed the crossbar with a looping header from a Messi free kick, and Buffon beat out another effort, with De Ligt's pressure enough to stop Martin Braithwaite converting the rebound.

Leonardo Bonucci had a fourth goal ruled out for offside after he tapped in Ronaldo's effort from close range, with Messi trying in vain at the other end to answer Ronaldo, but he found the 42-year-old Buffon in his way time and time again.

Griezmann was critical of his own side after they fell to their first home Champions League group stage defeat since 2009.

"We were not good enough, they over-ran us in the first half, we lacked everything," he told Movistar.&nbsp;

"A lack of attitude, desire, wanting to run, defending, attacking, everything was bad."

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was also unhappy.

"There are two things, one thing is individual mistakes, and the other is how the team defends, these are different things," he said.

"Right now teams can score against us in any given moment. This is very tough, we need to come out of this, and work very hard."

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G.

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G. The former Real Madrid striker and his Argentina counterpart traded Ballon d'Or wins for a decade between 2008-2017 and were figureheads for the duelling Spanish giants, but there was only one winner at the Camp Nou as they met for the first time since Ronaldo's departure for Juve in 2018. Andrea Pirlo's Juventus lost 2-0 at home against Barcelona in October without Ronaldo, sidelined with Covid-19, but were greatly improved and earned the first Champions League away win against Barcelona since Bayern Munich triumphed in 2013. Both sides, tied on 15 points, were assured of qualification before kick-off, but Juve's three-goal victory handed them a superior head-to-head record. "When you have this desire to sacrifice yourself and an infallible sniper, like Ronaldo, you are sure you can win these matches," Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia. "As we showed in the derby (win over Torino), if we play with this desire, we bring home the results we want. The next step is to do this in all our games." Ronald Koeman, reeling from Barcelona's 2-1 defeat by promoted minnows Cadiz on Saturday in La Liga, reacted by making four changes but the hosts started badly. It only took 13 minutes for Ronaldo to break the deadlock, slotting home from the penalty spot after the referee deemed Ronald Araujo's challenge on him a foul. Juventus did not relent and their pressure led to a second goal, US midfielder Weston McKennie volleying home Juan Cuadrado's sweetly clipped cross in the 20th minute. The Catalans and their captain Messi finally woke from their slumber, as the attacker had one effort blocked by Matthijs de Ligt and another saved by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, while Pjanic lashed over the bar. Ronaldo notched his second from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute after Clement Lenglet handled clumsily in the area, as the hosts imploded. Antoine Griezmann, who was invisible in the first half, grazed the crossbar with a looping header from a Messi free kick, and Buffon beat out another effort, with De Ligt's pressure enough to stop Martin Braithwaite converting the rebound. Leonardo Bonucci had a fourth goal ruled out for offside after he tapped in Ronaldo's effort from close range, with Messi trying in vain at the other end to answer Ronaldo, but he found the 42-year-old Buffon in his way time and time again. Griezmann was critical of his own side after they fell to their first home Champions League group stage defeat since 2009. "We were not good enough, they over-ran us in the first half, we lacked everything," he told Movistar. "A lack of attitude, desire, wanting to run, defending, attacking, everything was bad." Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was also unhappy. "There are two things, one thing is individual mistakes, and the other is how the team defends, these are different things," he said. "Right now teams can score against us in any given moment. This is very tough, we need to come out of this, and work very hard."

Ronaldo scores twice as Juve crush Messi's troubled Barcelona

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation.

Both teams left the pitch after a lengthy touchline row which erupted when the Romanian fourth official, Sebastian Coltescu, appeared to describe Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo, the former Cameroon international, as "black", or "negru" in Romanian.

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Demba Ba responding to what was said by the fourth official in PSG vs Basaksehir <a href="https://t.co/mFGJgSW1X4">pic.twitter.com/mFGJgSW1X4</a>
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&nbsp;

The group game in Paris, which was goalless at the time, was suspended and will resume where it left off, in the 14th minute, on Wednesday, with a different set of match officials.

Many athletes have taken a strong stand against racism since Black Lives Matter protests flared around the world over the death of George Floyd during his arrest in Minneapolis in May.

PSG striker Kylian Mbappe tweeted, "Say no to racism", while team-mate Neymar posted, "Black Lives Matter". Both players were prominent in the heated discussions on the touchline.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is understood to be close to Basaksehir's owners, tweeted that he "strongly condemn(s) the racist remarks", while Romanian-born French sports minister Roxanna Maracineanu praised the players' "historic decision".

Basaksehir midfielder Giuliano told Brazilian media: "(The comment) was very clear, many people heard, including our coach. It was disgraceful.

"As a team and a group, we decided to protest because that is unacceptable. Racism has to end."

The row blew up after Webo was shown a red card. Television microphones in the empty Parc des Princes stadium then picked up a furious Webo repeatedly asking why a racist term had been used to describe him.

In the exchange in question between the all-Romanian officiating team, Coltescu said: "The black one over there. This is not possible. Go and identify him. That guy, the black one."

Basaksehir's Senegal international striker Demba Ba, among the substitutes for the away side, could be heard remonstrating with the official, saying in English: "When you mention a white guy, you never say 'this white guy', you just say 'this guy', so why when you mention a black guy do you say 'this black guy?'"

<h2>- 'No to racism' -&nbsp;</h2>

UEFA promised a "thorough investigation" into the incident and confirmed the match would restart at 1755 GMT on Wednesday.

European football's governing body said it had "decided on an exceptional basis to have the remaining minutes of the match played (Wednesday) with a new team of match officials".

UEFA's regulations for the Champions League stipulate that, normally, any team refusing to play must forfeit the game and also faces a fine of 250,000 euros ($303,000).

Danny Makkelie of the Netherlands was named as the referee for the remainder of the game, with the other officials from the Netherlands and Poland. They replace Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan, his two assistants and Coltescu.

The president of the Turkish champions said his side refused to restart the game as long as the fourth official was still involved.

"The fourth official used the word 'negro' in front of everybody. If the fourth official is removed from the pitch, then we will restart," Goksel Gumusdag told Turkish television channel TRT Spor.

Basaksehir responded to the incidents by tweeting "NO TO RACISM #Respect", along with a photo of UEFA's anti-racism logo.

The message was retweeted by PSG, who later tweeted their support on their English-language feed.

"All forms of racism go against the values held by Paris Saint-Germain, the club's Chairman, staff and players," the French champions said.

Despite the interruption of the match, played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic, PSG qualified for the last 16 from Group H after RB Leipzig beat Manchester United 3-2 in Germany.

However, PSG will need to win the game in order to finish on top of the group above Leipzig.

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a Champions League match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation.

Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir staged an unprecedented joint walk-out over alleged racism by a Champions League match official on Tuesday, prompting UEFA to suspend the game and launch an investigation. Both teams left the pitch after a lengthy touchline row which erupted when the Romanian fourth official, Sebastian Coltescu, appeared to describe Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo, the former Cameroon international, as "black", or "negru" in Romanian. Demba Ba responding to what was said by the fourth official in PSG vs Basaksehir pic.twitter.com/mFGJgSW1X4 — FIFA 21 News (@FUT21News) December 8, 2020 × The group game in Paris, which was goalless at the time, was suspended and will resume where it left off, in the 14th minute, on Wednesday, with a different set of match officials. Many athletes have taken a strong stand against racism since Black Lives Matter protests flared around the world over the death of George Floyd during his arrest in Minneapolis in May. PSG striker Kylian Mbappe tweeted, "Say no to racism", while team-mate Neymar posted, "Black Lives Matter". Both players were prominent in the heated discussions on the touchline. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is understood to be close to Basaksehir's owners, tweeted that he "strongly condemn(s) the racist remarks", while Romanian-born French sports minister Roxanna Maracineanu praised the players' "historic decision". Basaksehir midfielder Giuliano told Brazilian media: "(The comment) was very clear, many people heard, including our coach. It was disgraceful. "As a team and a group, we decided to protest because that is unacceptable. Racism has to end." The row blew up after Webo was shown a red card. Television microphones in the empty Parc des Princes stadium then picked up a furious Webo repeatedly asking why a racist term had been used to describe him. In the exchange in question between the all-Romanian officiating team, Coltescu said: "The black one over there. This is not possible. Go and identify him. That guy, the black one." Basaksehir's Senegal international striker Demba Ba, among the substitutes for the away side, could be heard remonstrating with the official, saying in English: "When you mention a white guy, you never say 'this white guy', you just say 'this guy', so why when you mention a black guy do you say 'this black guy?'" - 'No to racism' - UEFA promised a "thorough investigation" into the incident and confirmed the match would restart at 1755 GMT on Wednesday. European football's governing body said it had "decided on an exceptional basis to have the remaining minutes of the match played (Wednesday) with a new team of match officials". UEFA's regulations for the Champions League stipulate that, normally, any team refusing to play must forfeit the game and also faces a fine of 250,000 euros ($303,000). Danny Makkelie of the Netherlands was named as the referee for the remainder of the game, with the other officials from the Netherlands and Poland. They replace Romanian referee Ovidiu Hategan, his two assistants and Coltescu. The president of the Turkish champions said his side refused to restart the game as long as the fourth official was still involved. "The fourth official used the word 'negro' in front of everybody. If the fourth official is removed from the pitch, then we will restart," Goksel Gumusdag told Turkish television channel TRT Spor. Basaksehir responded to the incidents by tweeting "NO TO RACISM #Respect", along with a photo of UEFA's anti-racism logo. The message was retweeted by PSG, who later tweeted their support on their English-language feed. "All forms of racism go against the values held by Paris Saint-Germain, the club's Chairman, staff and players," the French champions said. Despite the interruption of the match, played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic, PSG qualified for the last 16 from Group H after RB Leipzig beat Manchester United 3-2 in Germany. However, PSG will need to win the game in order to finish on top of the group above Leipzig.

PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism

Real Madrid is set to take on Borussia Mönchengladbach in a crucial Champions League clash that will decide the fate of the Spanish giants. A draw will be enough for Zinedine Zidane's team if Shakhtar Donetsk loses at Inter Milan.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-vs-istanbul-basaksehir-romanian-fourth-official-sebastian-coltescus-instagram-hacked-after-racism-row-348583" hreflang="en">PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir: Romanian fourth official Sebastian Coltescu's Instagram hacked after racism row</a>

Real Madrid are on the verge of an early exit from the Champions League after losing to Shakhtar twice. Zinedine Zidane's fate in the club relies on the match.&nbsp;

Injury-plagued Real Madrid will witness of their skipper Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal.&nbsp;

<h2>When will Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) begin?</h2>

The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will begin at 1:30 AM IST on December 10.

<h2>Where will Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) be played?</h2>

The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) match will be held at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano in Madrid.

<h2>Which channel will telecast Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL)?</h2>

The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will have a live telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten HD.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL)?</h2>

The live streaming of Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp;

Real Madrid is set to take on Borussia Mönchengladbach in a crucial Champions League clash that will decide the fate of the Spanish giants. A draw will be enough for Zinedine Zidane's team if Shakhtar Donetsk loses at Inter Milan.

Real Madrid is set to take on Borussia Mönchengladbach in a crucial Champions League clash that will decide the fate of the Spanish giants. A draw will be enough for Zinedine Zidane's team if Shakhtar Donetsk loses at Inter Milan. Also read: PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir: Romanian fourth official Sebastian Coltescu's Instagram hacked after racism row Real Madrid are on the verge of an early exit from the Champions League after losing to Shakhtar twice. Zinedine Zidane's fate in the club relies on the match. Injury-plagued Real Madrid will witness of their skipper Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal. When will Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) begin? The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will begin at 1:30 AM IST on December 10. Where will Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) be played? The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) match will be held at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano in Madrid. Which channel will telecast Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL)? The Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will have a live telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Sony Ten HD. How to watch the live streaming of Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL)? The live streaming of Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, UEFA Champions League (UCL) will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

Real Madrid vs Borussia Mönchengladbach, Champions League Live Streaming: When and where to watch RMA vs MÖN match?

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black.

As per reports, the hackers, who appeared to be Turkish, further changed Coltescu’s bio to include a “No To Racism” hashtag.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ref" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="896d14ae-f6c7-49cc-bb7b-8e126375fe39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/36628434-9033883-The_Instagram_account_of_the_Romanian_fourth_official_Sebastian_-a-26_1607502603593.jpg" />

Coltescu’s alleged use of racism language triggered both Basaksehir and PSG walking off the pitch as a sign of protest at the Parc des Princes.

TRENDING |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-from-demba-bas-reaction-to-fourth-officials-explanation-how-psg-vs-istanbul-basaksehir-racism-row-unfurled-348514" hreflang="en">Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled</a>

With the match paused at 24 minutes, the remaining 76 minutes of the Group H match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir has been rescheduled for Wednesday evening with a different set of UEFA refereeing team appointed for the encounter.

Webo vocally protested a decision on the touchline during the first half of the match.

As the referee came over, footage appeared to show Coltescu identifying Webo by saying: 'The black one over there. Go and check who he is. The black one over there, it's not possible to act like that'.

It is being reported that Coltescu said&nbsp;a Romanian word for black. Webo overheard the match official in an empty stadium and immediately accused Coltescu of racism and was shown a straight red card.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

Former Chelsea forward Demba Ba, on the substitute bench for Istanbul Basaksehir, questioned Webo why he had used the discriminatory word to identify Webo.

He said: 'You never say "this white guy", you say "this guy", so why when you're mentioning him... listen to me... why when you mention a black guy, why do you say "this black guy."'

Players and staff of both Basaksehir and PSG were pretty vocal about the incident and left the pitch after around 10 minutes of discussion with the main referee Ovidiu Hategan.

TV footage also showed PSG's French defender Presnel Kimpembe saying: 'Is he serious? We are heading in. We're heading in. That's it, we're heading in.' Basaksehir coach Okan Buruk was heard saying ‘you are racist’ to Coltescu.

After a long wait, the match was called off on Tuesday and will resume from the same point on Wednesday.

Istanbul Basaksehir took to Twitter: 'Our players have taken a decision NOT TO go back on the pitch after our Assistant Coach Pierre Webo has been exposed to racist behaviour by the 4th Official.'

The incident has led to staunch criticism of racial acts in the world of football with former England international Rio Ferdinand saying “football is at the tipping point” and higher authorities should take some strong action if they want to put an end to discrimination. 
&nbsp;

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black.

The Instagram account of the fourth official in the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir has been apparently hacked as his profile picture was replaced by an image of Istanbul Basaksehir’s assistant manager Pierre Webo, whom Coltescu allegedly identified using the Romanian word for black. As per reports, the hackers, who appeared to be Turkish, further changed Coltescu’s bio to include a “No To Racism” hashtag. Coltescu’s alleged use of racism language triggered both Basaksehir and PSG walking off the pitch as a sign of protest at the Parc des Princes. TRENDING | Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled With the match paused at 24 minutes, the remaining 76 minutes of the Group H match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir has been rescheduled for Wednesday evening with a different set of UEFA refereeing team appointed for the encounter. Webo vocally protested a decision on the touchline during the first half of the match. As the referee came over, footage appeared to show Coltescu identifying Webo by saying: 'The black one over there. Go and check who he is. The black one over there, it's not possible to act like that'. It is being reported that Coltescu said a Romanian word for black. Webo overheard the match official in an empty stadium and immediately accused Coltescu of racism and was shown a straight red card. ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Former Chelsea forward Demba Ba, on the substitute bench for Istanbul Basaksehir, questioned Webo why he had used the discriminatory word to identify Webo. He said: 'You never say "this white guy", you say "this guy", so why when you're mentioning him... listen to me... why when you mention a black guy, why do you say "this black guy."' Players and staff of both Basaksehir and PSG were pretty vocal about the incident and left the pitch after around 10 minutes of discussion with the main referee Ovidiu Hategan. TV footage also showed PSG's French defender Presnel Kimpembe saying: 'Is he serious? We are heading in. We're heading in. That's it, we're heading in.' Basaksehir coach Okan Buruk was heard saying ‘you are racist’ to Coltescu. After a long wait, the match was called off on Tuesday and will resume from the same point on Wednesday. Istanbul Basaksehir took to Twitter: 'Our players have taken a decision NOT TO go back on the pitch after our Assistant Coach Pierre Webo has been exposed to racist behaviour by the 4th Official.' The incident has led to staunch criticism of racial acts in the world of football with former England international Rio Ferdinand saying “football is at the tipping point” and higher authorities should take some strong action if they want to put an end to discrimination.

PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir: Romanian fourth official Sebastian Coltescu's Instagram hacked after racism row

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term.

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✊🏻✊🏿 NO TO RACISM | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Respect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Respect</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ic1BzfANoi">pic.twitter.com/Ic1BzfANoi</a>
— İstanbul Başakşehir (@ibfk2014) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibfk2014/status/1336407284029730818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The moment Istanbul Basaksehir's Demba Ba reports the racist abuse by the fourth official at Paris Saint-Germain<a href="https://t.co/RlLAmtQUUF">pic.twitter.com/RlLAmtQUUF</a>
— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobHarris/status/1336413648558972930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-basaksehir-stage-champions-league-walk-out-over-officials-alleged-racism-348492" hreflang="en">PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism</a>

Television microphones picked up an agitated Webo continuously asking why the racist term was used to describe him. Star striker Demba Ba was also seen giving furious wordings to the referee.&nbsp;

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PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir has been suspended following an alleged racist incident involving the 4th official towards Istanbul's assistant manager. <a href="https://t.co/mLIkZiPK7u">pic.twitter.com/mLIkZiPK7u</a>
— Champions League on CBS Sports (@UCLonCBSSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/UCLonCBSSports/status/1336409907570982916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-utd-stumble-out-of-champions-league-with-loss-in-leipzig-348496" hreflang="en">Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig</a>

While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident.

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Temsilcimiz Başakşehir’in teknik ekibinden Pierre Webo'ya karşı sarf edilen ırkçı sözleri şiddetle kınıyor, UEFA tarafından gereken adımların atılacağına inanıyorum. 
 
Sporda ve hayatın tüm alanlarında ırkçılığa ve ayrımcılığa kayıtsız şartsız karşıyız. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Notoracism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Notoracism</a>
— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan/status/1336421579438350338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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This response from İstanbul Başakşehir is exactly how teams should handle racist incidents. 
 
Leave the pitch. Don’t stand for it. The fourth official accused has now been replaced by the VAR official in their game against PSG. <a href="https://t.co/Qzpm8qBFR4">pic.twitter.com/Qzpm8qBFR4</a>
— LDN (@LDNFootbalI) <a href="https://twitter.com/LDNFootbalI/status/1336413829153120256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.&nbsp;

While the fourth official was spotted agreeing that he used the racist term to describe Webo, there was someone, who was not spotted on the camera, saying there could have been a language issue as the fourth official was a Romanian.

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This is the 4th official attempting to explain what he said in the Paris St Germain match versus Istanbul Basaksehir <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PSGIBFK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PSGIBFK</a> <a href="https://t.co/NX6Geh17Gy">pic.twitter.com/NX6Geh17Gy</a>
— Brett Cullen (@iambrettcullen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iambrettcullen/status/1336417588574892034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, such incidents are a complete disgrace to the sport loved by billions around the world. &nbsp; 
In a statement, UEFA confirmed the game would, "on an exceptional basis", restart from where it was stopped on Wednesday at 1755 GMT, "with a new team of match officials".

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LOUD &amp; CLEAR ✊🏾 <a href="https://t.co/0VQVplti4D">https://t.co/0VQVplti4D</a>
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) <a href="https://twitter.com/sterling7/status/1336424855181332480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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✊🏻✊🏿 <a href="https://t.co/4G873kjKUk">pic.twitter.com/4G873kjKUk</a>
— Aymeric Laporte (@Laporte) <a href="https://twitter.com/Laporte/status/1336432042297466880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿
— Richarlison Andrade (@richarlison97) <a href="https://twitter.com/richarlison97/status/1336412392377487361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

PSG, who advanced following United's loss, will claim top spot with a victory.

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday. The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term. ✊🏻✊🏿 NO TO RACISM | #Respect pic.twitter.com/Ic1BzfANoi — İstanbul Başakşehir (@ibfk2014) December 8, 2020 × The moment Istanbul Basaksehir's Demba Ba reports the racist abuse by the fourth official at Paris Saint-Germainpic.twitter.com/RlLAmtQUUF — Rob Harris (@RobHarris) December 8, 2020 × ALSO READ: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism Television microphones picked up an agitated Webo continuously asking why the racist term was used to describe him. Star striker Demba Ba was also seen giving furious wordings to the referee. PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir has been suspended following an alleged racist incident involving the 4th official towards Istanbul's assistant manager. pic.twitter.com/mLIkZiPK7u — Champions League on CBS Sports (@UCLonCBSSports) December 8, 2020 × Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee. ALSO READ: Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident. Temsilcimiz Başakşehir’in teknik ekibinden Pierre Webo'ya karşı sarf edilen ırkçı sözleri şiddetle kınıyor, UEFA tarafından gereken adımların atılacağına inanıyorum. Sporda ve hayatın tüm alanlarında ırkçılığa ve ayrımcılığa kayıtsız şartsız karşıyız. #Notoracism — Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) December 8, 2020 × This response from İstanbul Başakşehir is exactly how teams should handle racist incidents. Leave the pitch. Don’t stand for it. The fourth official accused has now been replaced by the VAR official in their game against PSG. pic.twitter.com/Qzpm8qBFR4 — LDN (@LDNFootbalI) December 8, 2020 × UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now. While the fourth official was spotted agreeing that he used the racist term to describe Webo, there was someone, who was not spotted on the camera, saying there could have been a language issue as the fourth official was a Romanian. This is the 4th official attempting to explain what he said in the Paris St Germain match versus Istanbul Basaksehir #PSGIBFK pic.twitter.com/NX6Geh17Gy — Brett Cullen (@iambrettcullen) December 8, 2020 × However, such incidents are a complete disgrace to the sport loved by billions around the world. In a statement, UEFA confirmed the game would, "on an exceptional basis", restart from where it was stopped on Wednesday at 1755 GMT, "with a new team of match officials". LOUD & CLEAR ✊🏾 https://t.co/0VQVplti4D — Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) December 8, 2020 × ✊🏻✊🏿 pic.twitter.com/4G873kjKUk — Aymeric Laporte (@Laporte) December 8, 2020 × ✊🏻✊🏼✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 — Richarlison Andrade (@richarlison97) December 8, 2020 × PSG, who advanced following United's loss, will claim top spot with a victory.

Watch - From Demba Ba's reaction to fourth official's explanation: How PSG vs Istanbul Basaksehir racism row unfurled

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk.

A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B.&nbsp;

If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out.

Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’.

The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure.

Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez.

"Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future.&nbsp;

"You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid."

<h2>- Ramos returns -</h2>

However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years.&nbsp;

He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence.

Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations.

Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October.

"The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said.

"Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency."

Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead.

A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week.

Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future.

After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk. A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B. If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out. Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’. The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure. Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez. "Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future. "You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid." - Ramos returns - However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years. He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence. Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations. Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October. "The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said. "Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency." Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead. A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week. Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future. After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid and Zidane brace for crucial European night

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018. The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Messi will take on each other for the 36th time in their career – an on-field rivalry which has left the footballing world at the edge of their seats for more than a decade.

While Messi and Ronaldo were to face each other in their first encounter in Turin, Ronaldo was ruled out of the match after testing positive for COVID-19. Messi went on to score a 90th-minute penalty to seal a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana.

Interestingly, Ronaldo, who is the highest-ever score in UCL history, is yet to score against Messi’s Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League whereas Messi has three goals against Ronaldo in the elite tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-back-atletico-ac-milan-european-football-talking-points-348179" hreflang="en">Fans back, Atletico, AC Milan: European football talking points</a>

Notably, Messi has been on the losing side only once in five matches played between the duo in Champions League. Overall, Messi and Ronaldo have played 35 times in all competitions (for club and country) with the Barcelona ace leading the race with 16 wins whereas Ronaldo has tasted success 10 times. Messi has 22 goals and 12 assists to his name as compared to Ronaldo’s 19 goals and one assist.

In trophy race, Messi leads Ronaldo with 36-32. Even in the Ballon d’Or race, Messi holds the edge with six golden balls to Ronaldo’s five. However, in the international stage, Ronaldo won the Euro 206 and Nations League final titles for Portugal but Messi has lost four finals with Argentina. Ronaldo has more UCL trophies (five) to Messi’s four.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-set-to-renew-stellar-rivalry-in-champions-league-348069" hreflang="en">Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League</a>

With both the giants of the footballing world set to collide again, all eyes will be set on the duo to determine who has the final laugh in what promises to be an enticing battle.

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018.

In what has been one of the most awaited matches in UEFA Champions League 2020-21 group stage, Barcelona is set to host Juventus at the Camp Nou on Tuesday with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set to face each other for the first time since the latter left Real Madrid in 2018. The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Messi will take on each other for the 36th time in their career – an on-field rivalry which has left the footballing world at the edge of their seats for more than a decade. While Messi and Ronaldo were to face each other in their first encounter in Turin, Ronaldo was ruled out of the match after testing positive for COVID-19. Messi went on to score a 90th-minute penalty to seal a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana. Interestingly, Ronaldo, who is the highest-ever score in UCL history, is yet to score against Messi’s Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League whereas Messi has three goals against Ronaldo in the elite tournament. ALSO READ: Fans back, Atletico, AC Milan: European football talking points Notably, Messi has been on the losing side only once in five matches played between the duo in Champions League. Overall, Messi and Ronaldo have played 35 times in all competitions (for club and country) with the Barcelona ace leading the race with 16 wins whereas Ronaldo has tasted success 10 times. Messi has 22 goals and 12 assists to his name as compared to Ronaldo’s 19 goals and one assist. In trophy race, Messi leads Ronaldo with 36-32. Even in the Ballon d’Or race, Messi holds the edge with six golden balls to Ronaldo’s five. However, in the international stage, Ronaldo won the Euro 206 and Nations League final titles for Portugal but Messi has lost four finals with Argentina. Ronaldo has more UCL trophies (five) to Messi’s four. ALSO READ: Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League With both the giants of the footballing world set to collide again, all eyes will be set on the duo to determine who has the final laugh in what promises to be an enticing battle.

Lionel Messi to face Cristiano Ronaldo as iconic rivalry resumes in Champions League

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial.

Manchester United will qualify if they avoid a defeat against Leipzig but the duo of Cavani and Martial – who helped the Red Devils win 3-1 at West Ham this weekend, will miss out due to ‘minor niggles’.

The Ole Gunnar Solskjaer-managed side lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain last week and pressure will be on the English club when they take the field to face Leipzig.&nbsp;

"David (De Gea) is back in travelling, Luke (Shaw) is travelling," said Solskjaer, who is without Fred through suspension.

"Edinson and Anthony they've only minor niggles but they won't be making the trip." 
Manchester United started the UCL group stage action with an impressive win against PSG followed by a 5-0 hammering of Leipzig at home. However, a defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir threw the group open.

"Knockout games or games like this that mean you can go through or not are big," he said.

"The players are here, they are Man United players, because they have qualities that we've looked for and I'm sure that tomorrow night will prove that's the reason why they're here, they will show it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-set-to-renew-stellar-rivalry-in-champions-league-348069" hreflang="en">Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League</a>

"I think the character of the group is getting better and better and we're looking forward to the game." 
Manchester United, who last lifted the coveted UCL in 2008, will need to be self-motivated by their away form this season.&nbsp;

"It's something that we want, games like this," said Solskjaer. "It's a tradition for Man United -- we never make it easy for ourselves.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/next-year-we-have-to-do-it-neymar-keen-for-messi-reunion-347119" hreflang="en">'Next year we have to do it': Neymar keen for Messi reunion</a>

"Of course we look at the games, especially the away game against Istanbul (Basaksehir) that we could have got three points, but that's just the way we do things.

"We do make it hard for ourselves. That's been ever since I played and that's a long, long time ago."

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch UEFA Champions League match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial.

Manchester United face a herculean task of defeating German club RB Leipzig in their crunch UEFA Champions League match on Tuesday as the Premier League club will be without the servives of Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial. Manchester United will qualify if they avoid a defeat against Leipzig but the duo of Cavani and Martial – who helped the Red Devils win 3-1 at West Ham this weekend, will miss out due to ‘minor niggles’. The Ole Gunnar Solskjaer-managed side lost 3-1 to Paris Saint-Germain last week and pressure will be on the English club when they take the field to face Leipzig. "David (De Gea) is back in travelling, Luke (Shaw) is travelling," said Solskjaer, who is without Fred through suspension. "Edinson and Anthony they've only minor niggles but they won't be making the trip." Manchester United started the UCL group stage action with an impressive win against PSG followed by a 5-0 hammering of Leipzig at home. However, a defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir threw the group open. "Knockout games or games like this that mean you can go through or not are big," he said. "The players are here, they are Man United players, because they have qualities that we've looked for and I'm sure that tomorrow night will prove that's the reason why they're here, they will show it. ALSO READ: Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League "I think the character of the group is getting better and better and we're looking forward to the game." Manchester United, who last lifted the coveted UCL in 2008, will need to be self-motivated by their away form this season. "It's something that we want, games like this," said Solskjaer. "It's a tradition for Man United -- we never make it easy for ourselves. ALSO READ: 'Next year we have to do it': Neymar keen for Messi reunion "Of course we look at the games, especially the away game against Istanbul (Basaksehir) that we could have got three points, but that's just the way we do things. "We do make it hard for ourselves. That's been ever since I played and that's a long, long time ago."

UCL: Without Cavani and Martial, Manchester United face tricky task against RB Leipzig

Lionel Messi's rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has enthralled football for the better part of a decade, and the pair will duel for potentially the final time when Barcelona host Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The two titans of the modern game, who split ownership of the Ballon d'Or between 2008-2017, were the talismans of Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid until Ronaldo left the Spanish capital for Juventus in 2018.

After the Portuguese forward arrived from Manchester United in 2009, El Clasico became synonymous with his rivalry with Barcelona captain Messi.

Since Ronaldo's departure, the fixture has lost some of its glamour, leaving the football world eager for the pair to be pitted against each other again.

Those hopes were frustrated earlier in the group phase, with Ronaldo missing Barcelona's 2-0 win in Turin after testing positive for Covid-19. Messi scored with a penalty. They are poised to meet again this week.

Both sides have already qualified for the last 16 from Group G but Juventus can overtake Barcelona if they win at Camp Nou by three goals or more, or by any two-goal margin other than 2-0.

Ronaldo and Messi are in the latter phases of their careers, at 35 and 33 respectively, but both retain their elite status.

Messi has six Ballons d'Or to his name and is the current holder, while Ronaldo finished third in the 2019 awards, boasting five.

<h2>- Ronaldo thriving -</h2>

He is thriving in Italy, having quickly become key for Juventus, who presented him with a commemorative shirt on Saturday to recognise his 750th career goal, ahead of a 2-1 win over neighbours Torino.

"Ronaldo is the top player for mentality," his former Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri told The Times.

"Ronaldo has a different head to everyone. He's won five Ballons d'Or, five Champions Leagues and one European Championship for Portugal, and that is so difficult, and it's always him making the difference. Every year he has a new objective."

Ronaldo netted 21 goals in his debut season for Allegri to take Juventus to the title, followed by 31 last season under Maurizio Sarri as they lifted the Scudetto for the 36th time.

With eight goals in six appearances this season for Andrea Pirlo, Ronaldo is showing no signs of slowing down. By contrast, Messi is struggling in Spain.

The Barcelona forward tried to escape this summer but his club refused to let him leave and Messi appears an uncomfortable fit in new coach Ronald Koeman's tactical plans, and far from his decisive best.

Barcelona are enduring their worst start to a league season for 33 years and Messi's inconsistency is part of the problem, with four goals in 10 appearances and two of those from the penalty spot.

Carles Tusquets, president of the managing board in charge before club elections in January, said he would have sold Messi in the summer, economically speaking.

"Financially, him leaving would been good for the club," Tusquets told Catalunya Radio. "We'd be better off because we said that his salary is the highest in the world. Nothing could be truer."

However, the Argentina forward, who failed to find the net in a dismal 2-1 defeat by promoted side Cadiz on Saturday, remains, and the chance to joust with his old foe Ronaldo may rouse him.

While Ronaldo was in Spain he and Messi drove each other to greater and greater heights, in what was football's greatest rivalry between individuals. On Tuesday, they cross swords once again, perhaps as a last encore.

Lionel Messi's rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has enthralled football for the better part of a decade, and the pair will duel for potentially the final time when Barcelona host Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Lionel Messi's rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has enthralled football for the better part of a decade, and the pair will duel for potentially the final time when Barcelona host Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday. The two titans of the modern game, who split ownership of the Ballon d'Or between 2008-2017, were the talismans of Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid until Ronaldo left the Spanish capital for Juventus in 2018. After the Portuguese forward arrived from Manchester United in 2009, El Clasico became synonymous with his rivalry with Barcelona captain Messi. Since Ronaldo's departure, the fixture has lost some of its glamour, leaving the football world eager for the pair to be pitted against each other again. Those hopes were frustrated earlier in the group phase, with Ronaldo missing Barcelona's 2-0 win in Turin after testing positive for Covid-19. Messi scored with a penalty. They are poised to meet again this week. Both sides have already qualified for the last 16 from Group G but Juventus can overtake Barcelona if they win at Camp Nou by three goals or more, or by any two-goal margin other than 2-0. Ronaldo and Messi are in the latter phases of their careers, at 35 and 33 respectively, but both retain their elite status. Messi has six Ballons d'Or to his name and is the current holder, while Ronaldo finished third in the 2019 awards, boasting five. - Ronaldo thriving - He is thriving in Italy, having quickly become key for Juventus, who presented him with a commemorative shirt on Saturday to recognise his 750th career goal, ahead of a 2-1 win over neighbours Torino. "Ronaldo is the top player for mentality," his former Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri told The Times. "Ronaldo has a different head to everyone. He's won five Ballons d'Or, five Champions Leagues and one European Championship for Portugal, and that is so difficult, and it's always him making the difference. Every year he has a new objective." Ronaldo netted 21 goals in his debut season for Allegri to take Juventus to the title, followed by 31 last season under Maurizio Sarri as they lifted the Scudetto for the 36th time. With eight goals in six appearances this season for Andrea Pirlo, Ronaldo is showing no signs of slowing down. By contrast, Messi is struggling in Spain. The Barcelona forward tried to escape this summer but his club refused to let him leave and Messi appears an uncomfortable fit in new coach Ronald Koeman's tactical plans, and far from his decisive best. Barcelona are enduring their worst start to a league season for 33 years and Messi's inconsistency is part of the problem, with four goals in 10 appearances and two of those from the penalty spot. Carles Tusquets, president of the managing board in charge before club elections in January, said he would have sold Messi in the summer, economically speaking. "Financially, him leaving would been good for the club," Tusquets told Catalunya Radio. "We'd be better off because we said that his salary is the highest in the world. Nothing could be truer." However, the Argentina forward, who failed to find the net in a dismal 2-1 defeat by promoted side Cadiz on Saturday, remains, and the chance to joust with his old foe Ronaldo may rouse him. While Ronaldo was in Spain he and Messi drove each other to greater and greater heights, in what was football's greatest rivalry between individuals. On Tuesday, they cross swords once again, perhaps as a last encore.

Ronaldo set to renew stellar rivalry in Champions League

Olivier Giroud scored four goals as Chelsea romped to an impressive 4-0 victory at Sevilla on Wednesday to secure top spot in Champions League Group E.

The 34-year-old striker is the oldest player to score a hat-trick in the competition since Hungarian great Ferenc Puskas in 1965 for Real Madrid against Feyenoord.

He is also the first player to net four times in a Champions League match since Cristiano Ronaldo against Malmo five years ago.

"Amazing solo performance from Olivier. Delighted with him, delighted with the team. This is a difficult place to come," Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, the last Chelsea player to score four goals in a game against Aston Villa in 2010, told BT Sport.

Both teams were already qualified for the last 16 before kick-off, but Giroud made the most of a rare start, scoring with his left foot, his right foot and his head to see Chelsea through as group winners, also slotting in a penalty.

"I didn't know until two years ago that you called it a perfect hat-trick, when I scored (a treble) against (Dynamo) Kiev in (the) Europa League, I said 'What do you mean?' It was good, I had good assists though," Giroud said.

"I will try to carry on like that -- to finish the good job of the team and it's always nice to be in the club history and we play football to mark our history, so I'm pleased to help the team to win and to score the four goals."

The France international sent out a message to Lampard, with Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham seemingly above him in the pecking order, by making the absolute most of only his second start of the season.

"Let me enjoy the night and that great win and after that we will rest and we will see what the gaffer's plan is," Giroud said when asked if he was now expecting to start against Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday.

Lampard will now be able to rest players for the final group game against Krasnodar at Stamford Bridge, with his side looking to improve on last season's run to the last 16, where they were well beaten by eventual winners Bayern Munich.

<h2>- Fine finish -</h2>

Giroud wasted little time in putting Chelsea ahead, collecting Kai Havertz's clever pass before cutting inside and bending a fine finish into the far corner in the eighth minute.

Sevilla were left frustrated as they saw two penalty appeals for handball turned down.

In the 20th minute, claims that Christian Pulisic handled were waved away by referee Artur Soares Dias after he checked the pitchside monitor.

The hosts had another penalty shout turned down following a lengthy VAR delay after an Ivan Rakitic free-kick struck the Chelsea wall.

Aside from those nervy moments, Lampard's Blues were the more threatening, with Antonio Rudiger seeing a header cleared off the line before Alfonso Pastor kept out Pulisic's low drive.

The home side started the second half brightly, as Jesus Navas picked out Nemanja Gudelj&nbsp;with a clever pass, but the Serbian international fired narrowly over.

Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 54th minute, though, as Giroud boosted his case for more game time further by latching onto Mateo Kovacic's pass and clipping the ball over the Sevilla goalkeeper.

But he was not finished there, completing his first Champions League hat-trick since a treble against Olympiakos for Arsenal in 2015 with a looping header from N'Golo Kante's cross.

Giroud rounded off a virtuoso display from the spot with seven minutes to play, scoring a spot-kick he had won himself.

Olivier Giroud scored four goals as Chelsea romped to an impressive 4-0 victory at Sevilla on Wednesday to secure top spot in Champions League Group E. The 34-year-old striker is the oldest player to score a hat-trick in the competition since Hungarian great Ferenc Puskas in 1965 for Real Madrid against Feyenoord.

Olivier Giroud scored four goals as Chelsea romped to an impressive 4-0 victory at Sevilla on Wednesday to secure top spot in Champions League Group E. The 34-year-old striker is the oldest player to score a hat-trick in the competition since Hungarian great Ferenc Puskas in 1965 for Real Madrid against Feyenoord. He is also the first player to net four times in a Champions League match since Cristiano Ronaldo against Malmo five years ago. "Amazing solo performance from Olivier. Delighted with him, delighted with the team. This is a difficult place to come," Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, the last Chelsea player to score four goals in a game against Aston Villa in 2010, told BT Sport. Both teams were already qualified for the last 16 before kick-off, but Giroud made the most of a rare start, scoring with his left foot, his right foot and his head to see Chelsea through as group winners, also slotting in a penalty. "I didn't know until two years ago that you called it a perfect hat-trick, when I scored (a treble) against (Dynamo) Kiev in (the) Europa League, I said 'What do you mean?' It was good, I had good assists though," Giroud said. "I will try to carry on like that -- to finish the good job of the team and it's always nice to be in the club history and we play football to mark our history, so I'm pleased to help the team to win and to score the four goals." The France international sent out a message to Lampard, with Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham seemingly above him in the pecking order, by making the absolute most of only his second start of the season. "Let me enjoy the night and that great win and after that we will rest and we will see what the gaffer's plan is," Giroud said when asked if he was now expecting to start against Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday. Lampard will now be able to rest players for the final group game against Krasnodar at Stamford Bridge, with his side looking to improve on last season's run to the last 16, where they were well beaten by eventual winners Bayern Munich. - Fine finish - Giroud wasted little time in putting Chelsea ahead, collecting Kai Havertz's clever pass before cutting inside and bending a fine finish into the far corner in the eighth minute. Sevilla were left frustrated as they saw two penalty appeals for handball turned down. In the 20th minute, claims that Christian Pulisic handled were waved away by referee Artur Soares Dias after he checked the pitchside monitor. The hosts had another penalty shout turned down following a lengthy VAR delay after an Ivan Rakitic free-kick struck the Chelsea wall. Aside from those nervy moments, Lampard's Blues were the more threatening, with Antonio Rudiger seeing a header cleared off the line before Alfonso Pastor kept out Pulisic's low drive. The home side started the second half brightly, as Jesus Navas picked out Nemanja Gudelj with a clever pass, but the Serbian international fired narrowly over. Chelsea doubled their advantage in the 54th minute, though, as Giroud boosted his case for more game time further by latching onto Mateo Kovacic's pass and clipping the ball over the Sevilla goalkeeper. But he was not finished there, completing his first Champions League hat-trick since a treble against Olympiakos for Arsenal in 2015 with a looping header from N'Golo Kante's cross. Giroud rounded off a virtuoso display from the spot with seven minutes to play, scoring a spot-kick he had won himself.

Giroud scores four as Chelsea thrash Sevilla to top group

Neymar dropped a bombshell on Wednesday as he followed up scoring twice for Paris Saint-Germain in their 3-1 Champions League win over Manchester United by revealing his desire to reunite with Lionel Messi next season.

The Brazilian enjoyed four successful seasons alongside the six-time Ballon d'Or winner at Barcelona before making a world record 222 million euro ($264m) move to the French capital in 2017.

"It's what I most want, to enjoy being with him on the field again," Neymar, whose contract at PSG runs until 2022, told ESPN.

"I want to play with him for sure, next year we have to do it."

Neymar was heavily linked with a return to Barcelona in 2019, but the Catalan giants were unable to fund an acceptable offer for PSG.

Barca have had to agree salary cuts worth 122 million euros in players' salaries this season to help offset the financial hole left by the coronavirus pandemic and are highly unlikely to be in a position to bring Neymar back next year.

Instead, it is Messi who could be on the move as the Argentine is out of contract at the end of the season and publicly expressed his desire to leave in August.

Then Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu would not free Messi from the final year of his deal at the Camp Nou, but Bartomeu has since resigned with new presidential elections scheduled for January 24.

Manchester City were the favourites to land Messi's signature earlier this year, but PSG could be an alternative for a player who will turn 34 at the end of this season.

"He can play in my position, there is no problem," Neymar joked. "Take me out."

Neymar's partnership with Kylian Mbappe is yet to deliver PSG's first ever Champions League title, but the French champions should have another shot in this season's knockout stages after a vital victory in Manchester.

Thomas Tuchel's men are now level on points with United and RB Leipzig with one game in Group H to come.

But PSG are in the driving seat as they host already-eliminated Istanbul Basaksehir next week, while United travel to Germany needing a point to reach the last 16.

Neymar dropped a bombshell on Wednesday as he followed up scoring twice for Paris Saint-Germain in their 3-1 Champions League win over Manchester United by revealing his desire to reunite with Lionel Messi next season.

Neymar dropped a bombshell on Wednesday as he followed up scoring twice for Paris Saint-Germain in their 3-1 Champions League win over Manchester United by revealing his desire to reunite with Lionel Messi next season. The Brazilian enjoyed four successful seasons alongside the six-time Ballon d'Or winner at Barcelona before making a world record 222 million euro ($264m) move to the French capital in 2017. "It's what I most want, to enjoy being with him on the field again," Neymar, whose contract at PSG runs until 2022, told ESPN. "I want to play with him for sure, next year we have to do it." Neymar was heavily linked with a return to Barcelona in 2019, but the Catalan giants were unable to fund an acceptable offer for PSG. Barca have had to agree salary cuts worth 122 million euros in players' salaries this season to help offset the financial hole left by the coronavirus pandemic and are highly unlikely to be in a position to bring Neymar back next year. Instead, it is Messi who could be on the move as the Argentine is out of contract at the end of the season and publicly expressed his desire to leave in August. Then Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu would not free Messi from the final year of his deal at the Camp Nou, but Bartomeu has since resigned with new presidential elections scheduled for January 24. Manchester City were the favourites to land Messi's signature earlier this year, but PSG could be an alternative for a player who will turn 34 at the end of this season. "He can play in my position, there is no problem," Neymar joked. "Take me out." Neymar's partnership with Kylian Mbappe is yet to deliver PSG's first ever Champions League title, but the French champions should have another shot in this season's knockout stages after a vital victory in Manchester. Thomas Tuchel's men are now level on points with United and RB Leipzig with one game in Group H to come. But PSG are in the driving seat as they host already-eliminated Istanbul Basaksehir next week, while United travel to Germany needing a point to reach the last 16.

'Next year we have to do it': Neymar keen for Messi reunion

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance.

Substitutes Dentinho and Manor Solomon both scored second-half goals in Kiev as Shakhtar stunned the 13-time European champions again, having already won 3-2 in Madrid in October.

Shakhtar had lost their last two Group B matches against Borussia Moenchengladbach by an aggregate score of 10-0, but this victory allowed them to move above Real into second place in the group with one game remaining.

Gladbach top the section by a point, while Shakhtar now have the upper hand on Real thanks to their superior head-to-head record.

However, Inter Milan's 3-2 win away to Gladbach not only kept the Italians alive, but also limited the damage for Real, who now know a win at home to the Germans next week will take them through, regardless of how Shakhtar fare in their last game.

Madrid have made it out of their group in every year since 1997 and so failure to qualify would be seen as a disaster, but Zidane said he would not leave the club he has so far led to three Champions League triumphs and two La Liga titles over two spells as coach.

"I am not going to resign, not at all," said Zidane. "We are always going to have difficult moments, and we are on a bad run, but we need to keep going."

"I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," added the Frenchman, whose team also lost at the weekend, going down 2-1 at home to Alaves in La Liga.

"We played well and we deserved more. We just need to lift our heads up and think about the next game."

<h2>- Struggles without Ramos -</h2>

Real were returning to the scene of their victory over Liverpool in the 2018 final, but they looked a shadow of their former selves in the cold and the snow in Kiev's Olympic Stadium, and the result further underlined how much they miss defensive talisman Sergio Ramos when he is not there.

This was Real's seventh defeat in the last nine Champions League matches they have played without Ramos, who is currently injured.

Perhaps this game would have turned out differently had Marco Asensio scored in the fifth minute rather than turn Karim Benzema's cross onto the post, but they went on to slump to a third defeat in their last five matches in all competitions.

Dentinho had replaced the injured Junior Moraes in the first half and the Brazilian got the opening goal just before the hour mark.

Ferland Mendy intercepted a Viktor Kovalenko ball into the box but only succeeded in laying it on a plate for Dentinho to tuck past Thibaut Courtois and in.

The Ukrainian champions then made sure of their victory on the counter-attack with eight minutes remaining as Israeli international Solomon picked up the ball on halfway and advanced unchallenged before picking his spot.

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance.

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance. Substitutes Dentinho and Manor Solomon both scored second-half goals in Kiev as Shakhtar stunned the 13-time European champions again, having already won 3-2 in Madrid in October. Shakhtar had lost their last two Group B matches against Borussia Moenchengladbach by an aggregate score of 10-0, but this victory allowed them to move above Real into second place in the group with one game remaining. Gladbach top the section by a point, while Shakhtar now have the upper hand on Real thanks to their superior head-to-head record. However, Inter Milan's 3-2 win away to Gladbach not only kept the Italians alive, but also limited the damage for Real, who now know a win at home to the Germans next week will take them through, regardless of how Shakhtar fare in their last game. Madrid have made it out of their group in every year since 1997 and so failure to qualify would be seen as a disaster, but Zidane said he would not leave the club he has so far led to three Champions League triumphs and two La Liga titles over two spells as coach. "I am not going to resign, not at all," said Zidane. "We are always going to have difficult moments, and we are on a bad run, but we need to keep going." "I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," added the Frenchman, whose team also lost at the weekend, going down 2-1 at home to Alaves in La Liga. "We played well and we deserved more. We just need to lift our heads up and think about the next game." - Struggles without Ramos - Real were returning to the scene of their victory over Liverpool in the 2018 final, but they looked a shadow of their former selves in the cold and the snow in Kiev's Olympic Stadium, and the result further underlined how much they miss defensive talisman Sergio Ramos when he is not there. This was Real's seventh defeat in the last nine Champions League matches they have played without Ramos, who is currently injured. Perhaps this game would have turned out differently had Marco Asensio scored in the fifth minute rather than turn Karim Benzema's cross onto the post, but they went on to slump to a third defeat in their last five matches in all competitions. Dentinho had replaced the injured Junior Moraes in the first half and the Brazilian got the opening goal just before the hour mark. Ferland Mendy intercepted a Viktor Kovalenko ball into the box but only succeeded in laying it on a plate for Dentinho to tuck past Thibaut Courtois and in. The Ukrainian champions then made sure of their victory on the counter-attack with eight minutes remaining as Israeli international Solomon picked up the ball on halfway and advanced unchallenged before picking his spot.

Zidane determined to turn around Real Madrid slump after latest Shakhtar defeat

Pep Guardiola saluted Manchester City's "incredible personality" after they sealed first place in Champions League Group C with a 0-0 draw against Porto that also sent the hosts in the last 16 on Tuesday.

Sergio Conceicao's side were on the defensive for long periods at the Estadio do Dragao, but a series of superb saves from Porto keeper Agustin Marchesin secured the point they needed to advance.

City's Gabriel Jesus was denied a late winner after VAR ruled out his goal.

Guardiola's team had already booked their place in the last 16 after winning their first four games and, with top spot now secured, the boss can now rest players for their final match against Marseille next week.

"Congratulations to my team for this game and finishing first. We didn't concede a shot on target or a corner all game," Guardiola said.

"We struggled to score but we played really well with incredible personality and many things about the game were brilliant.&nbsp;

"It's difficult with eight or nine of their players defending in the box.

"We came here to finish first. We played for the win and we deserved it, but deserve in football is a fake word because the result dictates everything."

Guardiola insists City will thrive in the Champions League this season as they bid to make amends for last term's shock quarter-final defeat against Lyon.

City have never won the Champions League and Guardiola, who last lifted the trophy with Barcelona in 2011, has been unable to take them past the quarter-finals.

Finishing on top of the group was the first step towards that target and Guardiola will be encouraged by City's improved defence.

They have conceded just six goals in their last 13 games in all competitions, a run that includes four successive Champions League clean sheets.

"It's more than the results. We played really well in all the games. Eleven shots on target against Olympiakos and against Marseille as well and today we had lots of chances," Guardiola said.

"The way we played, the courage, and defensively we were so good."

<h2>- Marchesin shines -</h2>

Guardiola made seven changes as Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez and Kyle Walker were among those resting on the bench following the 5-0 thrashing of Burnley.

Raheem Sterling felt he should have had an early penalty when Malang Sarr thudded into him without getting the ball, but VAR decided not to intervene despite the strong claim.

With Sergio Aguero still troubled by a knee injury and Jesus on the bench, Ferran Torres started up front for City.

Torres was denied the opening goal by a fine save from Marchesin after the Spaniard raced onto Phil Foden's pass.

City had 70 percent of the first half possession and Sterling almost made the breakthrough when he cut in from the left for a fierce drive that was cleared off the line by Zaidu Sanusi.

Cautious Porto finally showed a little ambition early in the second half when Sergio Oliveira tested Ederson from long range.

Sterling carried City's biggest threat and should have put them ahead when Foden's sublime pass put him clean through, only for&nbsp;Marchesin to rush from his line to make the save.

Marchesin denied the visitors again with a superb save from Torres' overhead kick after City defender Ruben Dias accidently cleared Sterling's effort off the Porto line.

Bernardo Silva's low drive forced another good stop from Marchesin, who made an even better one-handed save to keep out Eric Garcia's header.

Jesus thought he had broken Marchesin's brilliant resistance in the 80th minute with a tap-in from the rebound after the Porto keeper had tipped his header onto the bar.

But after lengthy City celebrations, the goal was ruled out by VAR for offside against Silva during the build-up.

Pep Guardiola saluted Manchester City's "incredible personality" after they sealed first place in Champions League Group C with a 0-0 draw against Porto that also sent the hosts in the last 16 on Tuesday.

Pep Guardiola saluted Manchester City's "incredible personality" after they sealed first place in Champions League Group C with a 0-0 draw against Porto that also sent the hosts in the last 16 on Tuesday. Sergio Conceicao's side were on the defensive for long periods at the Estadio do Dragao, but a series of superb saves from Porto keeper Agustin Marchesin secured the point they needed to advance. City's Gabriel Jesus was denied a late winner after VAR ruled out his goal. Guardiola's team had already booked their place in the last 16 after winning their first four games and, with top spot now secured, the boss can now rest players for their final match against Marseille next week. "Congratulations to my team for this game and finishing first. We didn't concede a shot on target or a corner all game," Guardiola said. "We struggled to score but we played really well with incredible personality and many things about the game were brilliant. "It's difficult with eight or nine of their players defending in the box. "We came here to finish first. We played for the win and we deserved it, but deserve in football is a fake word because the result dictates everything." Guardiola insists City will thrive in the Champions League this season as they bid to make amends for last term's shock quarter-final defeat against Lyon. City have never won the Champions League and Guardiola, who last lifted the trophy with Barcelona in 2011, has been unable to take them past the quarter-finals. Finishing on top of the group was the first step towards that target and Guardiola will be encouraged by City's improved defence. They have conceded just six goals in their last 13 games in all competitions, a run that includes four successive Champions League clean sheets. "It's more than the results. We played really well in all the games. Eleven shots on target against Olympiakos and against Marseille as well and today we had lots of chances," Guardiola said. "The way we played, the courage, and defensively we were so good." - Marchesin shines - Guardiola made seven changes as Kevin De Bruyne, Riyad Mahrez and Kyle Walker were among those resting on the bench following the 5-0 thrashing of Burnley. Raheem Sterling felt he should have had an early penalty when Malang Sarr thudded into him without getting the ball, but VAR decided not to intervene despite the strong claim. With Sergio Aguero still troubled by a knee injury and Jesus on the bench, Ferran Torres started up front for City. Torres was denied the opening goal by a fine save from Marchesin after the Spaniard raced onto Phil Foden's pass. City had 70 percent of the first half possession and Sterling almost made the breakthrough when he cut in from the left for a fierce drive that was cleared off the line by Zaidu Sanusi. Cautious Porto finally showed a little ambition early in the second half when Sergio Oliveira tested Ederson from long range. Sterling carried City's biggest threat and should have put them ahead when Foden's sublime pass put him clean through, only for Marchesin to rush from his line to make the save. Marchesin denied the visitors again with a superb save from Torres' overhead kick after City defender Ruben Dias accidently cleared Sterling's effort off the Porto line. Bernardo Silva's low drive forced another good stop from Marchesin, who made an even better one-handed save to keep out Eric Garcia's header. Jesus thought he had broken Marchesin's brilliant resistance in the 80th minute with a tap-in from the rebound after the Porto keeper had tipped his header onto the bar. But after lengthy City celebrations, the goal was ruled out by VAR for offside against Silva during the build-up.

Porto reach last 16, Man City top group after stalemate

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