In what could be a huge blow for Paris Saint-Germain in their pursuit of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> trophy, star Brazilian forward Neymar might miss the final against the winner of Olymique Lyon vs Bayern Munich after the PSG forward was seen swapping his jersey with RB Leipzig’s Marcel Halstenberg.&nbsp;

As per UEFA’s COVID-19 protocols, swapping of shirts isn’t allowed and a player found guilty of breaching the protocol have to undergo self-isolation for 12 days, which would see Neymar missing the summit clash in Lisbon.&nbsp;

Neymar has been arguably the best player for PSG in Champions League knockouts while chipping in with crucial contributions. Neymar was again at his best against RB Leipzig as the French club won the match comfortably to head to the final of UCL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-feel-world-cup-vibes-says-france-striker-mbappe-after-psgs-win-321618" hreflang="en">I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win</a>

However, with Neymar swapping shirts with Halstenberg, UEFA committee may take disciplinary action against the Brazilian megastar.&nbsp;

PSG reached their first every UEFA Champions League final and Neymar played a massive role in their success so far. The Brazilian has been involved directly in 59 goals in 59 Champions League matches -- 35 goals and 24 assists.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/di-maria-wont-sleep-after-reaching-champions-league-final-321619" hreflang="en">Di Maria 'won't sleep' after reaching Champions League final</a>

Whereas for Halstenberg, Leipzig’s season is over and hence the German player can undergo self-isolation for 12 days without disrupting the season. The UEFA disciplinary committee is expected to discuss the matter and take a call soon.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich and Lyon are set to face in the second semi-final of UCL on August 19 and the winner of the match will go on to take on PSG in the final of the elite competition in Lisbon, Portugal. 
&nbsp;

In what could be a huge blow for Paris Saint-Germain in their pursuit of UEFA Champions League trophy, star Brazilian forward Neymar might miss the final against the winner of Olymique Lyon vs Bayern Munich after the PSG forward was seen swapping his jersey with RB Leipzig’s Marcel Halstenberg.

In what could be a huge blow for Paris Saint-Germain in their pursuit of UEFA Champions League trophy, star Brazilian forward Neymar might miss the final against the winner of Olymique Lyon vs Bayern Munich after the PSG forward was seen swapping his jersey with RB Leipzig’s Marcel Halstenberg. As per UEFA’s COVID-19 protocols, swapping of shirts isn’t allowed and a player found guilty of breaching the protocol have to undergo self-isolation for 12 days, which would see Neymar missing the summit clash in Lisbon. Neymar has been arguably the best player for PSG in Champions League knockouts while chipping in with crucial contributions. Neymar was again at his best against RB Leipzig as the French club won the match comfortably to head to the final of UCL. ALSO READ: I feel World Cup vibes, says France striker Mbappe after PSG's win However, with Neymar swapping shirts with Halstenberg, UEFA committee may take disciplinary action against the Brazilian megastar. PSG reached their first every UEFA Champions League final and Neymar played a massive role in their success so far. The Brazilian has been involved directly in 59 goals in 59 Champions League matches -- 35 goals and 24 assists. ALSO READ: Di Maria 'won't sleep' after reaching Champions League final Whereas for Halstenberg, Leipzig’s season is over and hence the German player can undergo self-isolation for 12 days without disrupting the season. The UEFA disciplinary committee is expected to discuss the matter and take a call soon. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich and Lyon are set to face in the second semi-final of UCL on August 19 and the winner of the match will go on to take on PSG in the final of the elite competition in Lisbon, Portugal.

Neymar could miss Champions League final for breaking UEFA's COVID-19 protocol

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Keylor Navas has been ruled out their Champions League semi-final with Leipzig, the French side said on Sunday.

Costa Rica's Navas left the field in the dramatic last-eight win over Atalanta with a muscular issue and will miss Tuesday's meeting against the German outfit.

Spain's Sergio Rico, who has played just nine games this season, is set to start in Lisbon after having replaced three-time Champions League winner Navas against the Italians.

Midfielder Idrissa Gueye is a doubt for the club's first top-tier semi-final since 1995 but Marco Veratti, Thiago Silva and Layvin Kurzawa took part in training despite suffering various problems.

Ander Herrera, Leandro Paredes and Marquinhos are coach Thomas Tuchel's options to take the Senegal international's place.

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Keylor Navas has been ruled out their Champions League semi-final with Leipzig, the French side said on Sunday. Costa Rica's Navas left the field in the dramatic last-eight win over Atalanta with a muscular issue and will miss Tuesday's meeting against the German outfit.

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Keylor Navas has been ruled out their Champions League semi-final with Leipzig, the French side said on Sunday. Costa Rica's Navas left the field in the dramatic last-eight win over Atalanta with a muscular issue and will miss Tuesday's meeting against the German outfit. Spain's Sergio Rico, who has played just nine games this season, is set to start in Lisbon after having replaced three-time Champions League winner Navas against the Italians. Midfielder Idrissa Gueye is a doubt for the club's first top-tier semi-final since 1995 but Marco Veratti, Thiago Silva and Layvin Kurzawa took part in training despite suffering various problems. Ander Herrera, Leandro Paredes and Marquinhos are coach Thomas Tuchel's options to take the Senegal international's place.

PSG's Navas out of Leipzig Champions League semi-final

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick stayed neutral in the debate whether his striker Robert Lewandowski is better than Barcelona star Lionel Messi ahead of Friday's Champions League quarter-final clash in Lisbon

Barca face Bayern at the Estadio da Luz for a place in next Wednesday's semi-final.

In the build-up, there has been much debate whether Lewandowski, the Champions League's top-scorer with 13 goals in seven games, or six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi is the better player.&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, Barca coach Quique Setien said Lewandowski is "clearly" not at Messi's level after former Bayern star Lothar Matthaeus said the Poland striker had overtaken the Argentina forward as the world's best player.&nbsp;

"You can't compare the two players," insisted Flick.

"Robert is absolutely world-class as a central striker.

"He has a lot of quality, especially in the penalty area, he guarantees goals and creates them too.

"Messi has been by far the best player (in the world) for many years.

"I don't know whether there will be a player like him again."

Lewandowski is enjoying the best season of his career so far with 53 goals in 44 games, while Messi has managed 31 in 43 matches.

However, treble-chasing Bayern need to come up with a plan on how to contain Messi.

"You never defend against him alone. In the (previous Bayern) games against Messi, it always worked well when the whole team played their part," said Bayern forward Thomas Mueller.

"If the first player doesn't win the ball (from Messi), the next comes and tries.

"We have to act together, go into the challenges aggressively, but cleanly.

"It will be exciting, but in our games in the last few weeks, we have shown that we can do it," he added with Bayern unbeaten in their 13 match since the restart.

Flick insists Friday's showdown is not "Bayern against Messi. Of course he's a world-class player and we have thought about how to play against him.

"We have to be there as a team, be smart and put pressure on him."

Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifting the German Cup.

In contrast, Barcelona surrendered the Spanish title to Real Madrid after winning only seven of their 11 matches since the Spanish league resumed.

Nevertheless, Barcelona's former Bayern midfielder Arturo Vidal has insisted the Spanish giants are "the best team in the world".

The Germans resisted making a similar boast, but are in confident mood, even if Flick refused to make his team the favourite.

"Both teams have tremendous quality," he said.

"When such top clubs meet, even a bit of luck can be decisive.

"We have to believe in ourselves, act confidently and with the necessary intensity going into this game."

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick stayed neutral in the debate whether his striker Robert Lewandowski is better than Barcelona star Lionel Messi ahead of Friday's Champions League quarter-final clash in Lisbon Barca face Bayern at the Estadio da Luz for a place in next Wednesday's semi-final.

Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick stayed neutral in the debate whether his striker Robert Lewandowski is better than Barcelona star Lionel Messi ahead of Friday's Champions League quarter-final clash in Lisbon Barca face Bayern at the Estadio da Luz for a place in next Wednesday's semi-final. In the build-up, there has been much debate whether Lewandowski, the Champions League's top-scorer with 13 goals in seven games, or six-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi is the better player. Earlier on Thursday, Barca coach Quique Setien said Lewandowski is "clearly" not at Messi's level after former Bayern star Lothar Matthaeus said the Poland striker had overtaken the Argentina forward as the world's best player. "You can't compare the two players," insisted Flick. "Robert is absolutely world-class as a central striker. "He has a lot of quality, especially in the penalty area, he guarantees goals and creates them too. "Messi has been by far the best player (in the world) for many years. "I don't know whether there will be a player like him again." Lewandowski is enjoying the best season of his career so far with 53 goals in 44 games, while Messi has managed 31 in 43 matches. However, treble-chasing Bayern need to come up with a plan on how to contain Messi. "You never defend against him alone. In the (previous Bayern) games against Messi, it always worked well when the whole team played their part," said Bayern forward Thomas Mueller. "If the first player doesn't win the ball (from Messi), the next comes and tries. "We have to act together, go into the challenges aggressively, but cleanly. "It will be exciting, but in our games in the last few weeks, we have shown that we can do it," he added with Bayern unbeaten in their 13 match since the restart. Flick insists Friday's showdown is not "Bayern against Messi. Of course he's a world-class player and we have thought about how to play against him. "We have to be there as a team, be smart and put pressure on him." Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifting the German Cup. In contrast, Barcelona surrendered the Spanish title to Real Madrid after winning only seven of their 11 matches since the Spanish league resumed. Nevertheless, Barcelona's former Bayern midfielder Arturo Vidal has insisted the Spanish giants are "the best team in the world". The Germans resisted making a similar boast, but are in confident mood, even if Flick refused to make his team the favourite. "Both teams have tremendous quality," he said. "When such top clubs meet, even a bit of luck can be decisive. "We have to believe in ourselves, act confidently and with the necessary intensity going into this game."

'You can't compare Lewandowski and Messi' - Bayern boss Flick

Leipzig stunned Atletico Madrid 2-1 on Thursday to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time as Tyler Adams' 88th-minute winner earned them a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;

Atletico looked to have secured extra-time at the Estadio Jose Alvalade when Joao Felix won and then scored a penalty to cancel out Dani Olmo's headed opener early in the second half.&nbsp;

But Adams proved an unlikely hero for Leipzig, coming off the bench to snatch victory in Lisbon after his fired effort took a cruel deflection of Stefan Savic and flew in.&nbsp;

The win marks an historic night for Leipzig, who were only formed 11 years ago and played their first ever season in Germany's top flight in 2016.&nbsp;

Progress to the last four also puts another feather in the cap of their coach Julian Nagelsmann, whose stock will rise even further after ousting Diego Simeone, one of this competition's most gnarly tacticians.&nbsp;

"I'm perhaps one of the happiest coaches in the world," Nagelsmann said.&nbsp;

"We were the better team, the result is totally OK. The second goal is a bit lucky but we found the space behind the defensive line. I think we were the better team today."

Their challenge is now to defeat PSG on Tuesday, the French champions who have only played three matches in almost half a year and needed a late escape to see off Atalanta on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"It's normal that when you get to the next round, you want more," Nagelsmann said.&nbsp;

"Tonight we're happy. Tomorrow we'll start looking at Paris. That will be another difficult game but we'll have a plan."

<h2>- 'Hurts a lot' -</h2>

For Atletico and Simeone, this was an opportunity spurned to go far in Europe at the end of what has been a disappointing season in Spain.&nbsp;

After Real Madrid's loss against Manchester City, only Barcelona are left to fly the Spanish flag in this tournament and they face a formidable challenge against Bayern Munich on Friday.&nbsp;

Questions will be asked again about the future of Simeone, who has struggled to recreate an Atletico side capable of challenging for major honours.&nbsp;

His notoriously defensive approach, which saw off holders Liverpool in the last 16, looked outdated here against the slick, quick and free-flowing style of their opponents.&nbsp;

"It hurts a lot," said Atletico's Saul Niguez. "They had superiority in many areas on the pitch, inside, outside. Many times we were not even close to stopping them."

A forgettable first half was more worrying for Atletico, who struggled to escape their own half, even if Leipzig never really turned their pressure into any chances.&nbsp;

Marcel Halstenberg had the best opening but lashed over on the volley at the back post while the excellent Dayot Upamecano headed straight into the hands of Jan Oblak when given too much space in the box.&nbsp;

In between, VAR took a long time looking at a possible Atletico penalty but the contact between Peter Gulasci and Niguez's heel was minimal and the correct decision was made.&nbsp;

Leipzig were still in the ascendancy after half-time. Sabitzer had been captain until he picked up a knee injury in June and it was his perfect cross that created the opener, Olmo nipping in at the front post and heading past Oblak into the far corner.&nbsp;

Simeone threw on Felix to spark his team into life and the 20-year-old made a difference. He played a neat one-two with Diego Costa before poking the ball away from the lunging Lukas Klostermann. Felix went down and then got up to score the penalty.&nbsp;

Atletico owned the momentum but they let it go as the game drifted towards extra-time. Leipzig sensed an opportunity and in the 88th minute, they struck.&nbsp;

The ball was brilliantly switched left to Angelino, whose pulled cross fooled the retreating Atletico defence and landed at the feet of Adams on the edge of the area.&nbsp;

He had time to size up his shot, the finish spinning up off the left foot of Savic and leaving Oblak helpless.&nbsp;

Leipzig stunned Atletico Madrid 2-1 on Thursday to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time as Tyler Adams' 88th-minute winner earned them a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain.

Leipzig stunned Atletico Madrid 2-1 on Thursday to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time as Tyler Adams' 88th-minute winner earned them a showdown with Paris Saint-Germain. Atletico looked to have secured extra-time at the Estadio Jose Alvalade when Joao Felix won and then scored a penalty to cancel out Dani Olmo's headed opener early in the second half. But Adams proved an unlikely hero for Leipzig, coming off the bench to snatch victory in Lisbon after his fired effort took a cruel deflection of Stefan Savic and flew in. The win marks an historic night for Leipzig, who were only formed 11 years ago and played their first ever season in Germany's top flight in 2016. Progress to the last four also puts another feather in the cap of their coach Julian Nagelsmann, whose stock will rise even further after ousting Diego Simeone, one of this competition's most gnarly tacticians. "I'm perhaps one of the happiest coaches in the world," Nagelsmann said. "We were the better team, the result is totally OK. The second goal is a bit lucky but we found the space behind the defensive line. I think we were the better team today." Their challenge is now to defeat PSG on Tuesday, the French champions who have only played three matches in almost half a year and needed a late escape to see off Atalanta on Tuesday. "It's normal that when you get to the next round, you want more," Nagelsmann said. "Tonight we're happy. Tomorrow we'll start looking at Paris. That will be another difficult game but we'll have a plan." - 'Hurts a lot' - For Atletico and Simeone, this was an opportunity spurned to go far in Europe at the end of what has been a disappointing season in Spain. After Real Madrid's loss against Manchester City, only Barcelona are left to fly the Spanish flag in this tournament and they face a formidable challenge against Bayern Munich on Friday. Questions will be asked again about the future of Simeone, who has struggled to recreate an Atletico side capable of challenging for major honours. His notoriously defensive approach, which saw off holders Liverpool in the last 16, looked outdated here against the slick, quick and free-flowing style of their opponents. "It hurts a lot," said Atletico's Saul Niguez. "They had superiority in many areas on the pitch, inside, outside. Many times we were not even close to stopping them." A forgettable first half was more worrying for Atletico, who struggled to escape their own half, even if Leipzig never really turned their pressure into any chances. Marcel Halstenberg had the best opening but lashed over on the volley at the back post while the excellent Dayot Upamecano headed straight into the hands of Jan Oblak when given too much space in the box. In between, VAR took a long time looking at a possible Atletico penalty but the contact between Peter Gulasci and Niguez's heel was minimal and the correct decision was made. Leipzig were still in the ascendancy after half-time. Sabitzer had been captain until he picked up a knee injury in June and it was his perfect cross that created the opener, Olmo nipping in at the front post and heading past Oblak into the far corner. Simeone threw on Felix to spark his team into life and the 20-year-old made a difference. He played a neat one-two with Diego Costa before poking the ball away from the lunging Lukas Klostermann. Felix went down and then got up to score the penalty. Atletico owned the momentum but they let it go as the game drifted towards extra-time. Leipzig sensed an opportunity and in the 88th minute, they struck. The ball was brilliantly switched left to Angelino, whose pulled cross fooled the retreating Atletico defence and landed at the feet of Adams on the edge of the area. He had time to size up his shot, the finish spinning up off the left foot of Savic and leaving Oblak helpless.

Leipzig beat Atletico to book historic meeting with PSG

Arguably the most exciting match-up of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League (UCL)</a> quarter-final stage is set to take place as Barcelona and Bayern Munich gear up to lock horns at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon. With the semi-final 1 set between Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leizpig, all eyes will be on the match between Barca and Bayern as fans look to find out who will be advancing to the semi-final.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich have been in rampant form since the restart as the Hansi Flick side is yet to lose a match. Whereas Barcelona have had a lackluster resumption as the Blaugrana lost the La Liga title battle to arch-rivals Real Madrid.&nbsp;

All eyes will be on Bayern’s Robert Lewandowski and Barca’s Lionel Messi as two of the best forwards this season go face-to-face to take their side to the last four of the tournament.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-sign-willian-on-free-transfer-320476" hreflang="en">Arsenal sign Willian on free transfer</a>

With just one leg being played in the ‘Final 8’ of Champions League, it will be interesting to see the tactics of both the sides.

<h2>When will the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match begin?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 14.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match be played?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match match will be held at Estádio da Luz (Lisbon)

<h2>Which channel will telecast the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match?</h2>

The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will have a live telecast on Ten 1/HD and Ten 2/HD.

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match?</h2>

The live streaming of Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Arguably the most exciting match-up of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarter-final stage is set to take place as Barcelona and Bayern Munich gear up to lock horns at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.

Arguably the most exciting match-up of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarter-final stage is set to take place as Barcelona and Bayern Munich gear up to lock horns at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon. With the semi-final 1 set between Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leizpig, all eyes will be on the match between Barca and Bayern as fans look to find out who will be advancing to the semi-final. Bayern Munich have been in rampant form since the restart as the Hansi Flick side is yet to lose a match. Whereas Barcelona have had a lackluster resumption as the Blaugrana lost the La Liga title battle to arch-rivals Real Madrid. All eyes will be on Bayern’s Robert Lewandowski and Barca’s Lionel Messi as two of the best forwards this season go face-to-face to take their side to the last four of the tournament. ALSO READ: Arsenal sign Willian on free transfer With just one leg being played in the ‘Final 8’ of Champions League, it will be interesting to see the tactics of both the sides. When will the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match begin? The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 14. Where will the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match be played? The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match match will be held at Estádio da Luz (Lisbon) Which channel will telecast the Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match? The Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will have a live telecast on Ten 1/HD and Ten 2/HD. How to watch the live streaming of Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match? The live streaming of Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UEFA Champions League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

Barcelona vs Bayern Munich, UCL Live Streaming: When and where to watch Barca vs Bayern

Atletico Madrid were outplayed and out-thought by Leipzig on Thursday in Lisbon and at the end of another deflating season, Diego Simeone faces accusations he is out of date.&nbsp;

In a mirror image of their efforts in La Liga, Atletico delivered in the Champions League when written off and crumbled when there was even a hint of expectation.&nbsp;

They knocked out Liverpool at Anfield when nobody gave them a chance but when good form and a kind draw offered them a clear route to the final, they wilted, a 2-1 defeat sending Leipzig into the semis.&nbsp;

In La Liga, with the top two out of sight and their place in the top four in doubt, Atletico motored through the last five weeks unbeaten to clinch third.&nbsp;

But when held up as title challengers at the start of the season, after spending around 250 million euros and humiliating Real Madrid 7-3 in July, they floundered, winning six of their first 16 matches to sit seventh.

For a long time, Atletico have revelled in their underdog status, pitching themselves as the outsiders gatecrashing Europe's wealthy elite.&nbsp;

In a pitch on Wednesday to English fans on social media about the merits of supporting the club, the first reason given read: "Competing against the La Liga and European giants isn't easy. But through our values of hard work, effort, passion and teamwork, we've managed to close the gap."&nbsp;

Financially, there is no doubt they come a distant third in Spain. They posted revenue figures of 384 million euros for last season, around half the 757 million of Real Madrid and 852 million of Barcelona.&nbsp;

In Deloitte's 'Football Money League' published in January, which ranks Europe's richest clubs, Atletico sat 13th for the second year running.&nbsp;

Simeone has become a victim of his own excellence, the failure to replicate the incredible 2014 title triumph or two stirring runs to the Champions League final taken as evidence of decline.&nbsp;

But what are Atletico now? There should have been no inferiority complex against Leipzig, who were playing in Germany's fourth tier when Simeone took charge and third when Atletico were crowned Spanish champions.&nbsp;

They should have got closer to Real Madrid and Barcelona too, in a season when both were flawed, presenting a golden opportunity for an outsider to sneak in.&nbsp;

In that context, high expectations might not have been welcomed by Simeone but they were justified, and Atletico never got close to meeting them.

Questions about Simeone's future have become the reflex action for disappointment, his defensive style of play celebrated when it succeeds and chastised when it fails.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Transition season' -</h2>

&nbsp;

The contrast between the black shirts of Atleti, camped deep in their own half, against the white of Leipzig, quick, slick and full of attacking verve, was certainly stark.&nbsp;

It was tempting even to wonder if Julian Nagelsmann, Europe's most exciting up-and-coming coach, was consigning the tactical methods of Simeone to the past.&nbsp;

Yet the time for a painful separation is surely not now, after three months of encouragement that, with a much shorter summer pause, could well extend into 2020/21.&nbsp;

Simeone has defended his team's inconsistency by calling this a "transition season", insisting the players signed last year, including the 126-million-euro Joao Felix, would always need time to bed in.&nbsp;

There were departures to get over too - Diego Godin, Antoine Griezmann and Rodri among them - personality gaps that would be missed but over time could be refilled.&nbsp;

For that process to complete, interest in the likes of Jan Oblak, Thomas Partey, Jose Gimenez and Saul Niguez this summer will have to be rebuffed.&nbsp;

And the evolution that many feel is needed could come through a new assistant coach in Nelson Vivas, who will bring fresh ideas after he replaces Mono Burgos, Simeone's long-time number two.&nbsp;

Atletico have stagnated but as football is forced by the pandemic to stand still, they have a team that can grow.&nbsp;

In normal circumstances, Barcelona and Real Madrid would react to respective disappointments with aggression in the market but both are expected to start in September with much the same squad that finished in August.&nbsp;

Atletico, and Simeone, need to take advantage.&nbsp;

Atletico Madrid were outplayed and out-thought by Leipzig on Thursday in Lisbon and at the end of another deflating season, Diego Simeone faces accusations he is out of date.

Atletico Madrid were outplayed and out-thought by Leipzig on Thursday in Lisbon and at the end of another deflating season, Diego Simeone faces accusations he is out of date. In a mirror image of their efforts in La Liga, Atletico delivered in the Champions League when written off and crumbled when there was even a hint of expectation. They knocked out Liverpool at Anfield when nobody gave them a chance but when good form and a kind draw offered them a clear route to the final, they wilted, a 2-1 defeat sending Leipzig into the semis. In La Liga, with the top two out of sight and their place in the top four in doubt, Atletico motored through the last five weeks unbeaten to clinch third. But when held up as title challengers at the start of the season, after spending around 250 million euros and humiliating Real Madrid 7-3 in July, they floundered, winning six of their first 16 matches to sit seventh. For a long time, Atletico have revelled in their underdog status, pitching themselves as the outsiders gatecrashing Europe's wealthy elite. In a pitch on Wednesday to English fans on social media about the merits of supporting the club, the first reason given read: "Competing against the La Liga and European giants isn't easy. But through our values of hard work, effort, passion and teamwork, we've managed to close the gap." Financially, there is no doubt they come a distant third in Spain. They posted revenue figures of 384 million euros for last season, around half the 757 million of Real Madrid and 852 million of Barcelona. In Deloitte's 'Football Money League' published in January, which ranks Europe's richest clubs, Atletico sat 13th for the second year running. Simeone has become a victim of his own excellence, the failure to replicate the incredible 2014 title triumph or two stirring runs to the Champions League final taken as evidence of decline. But what are Atletico now? There should have been no inferiority complex against Leipzig, who were playing in Germany's fourth tier when Simeone took charge and third when Atletico were crowned Spanish champions. They should have got closer to Real Madrid and Barcelona too, in a season when both were flawed, presenting a golden opportunity for an outsider to sneak in. In that context, high expectations might not have been welcomed by Simeone but they were justified, and Atletico never got close to meeting them. Questions about Simeone's future have become the reflex action for disappointment, his defensive style of play celebrated when it succeeds and chastised when it fails. - 'Transition season' - The contrast between the black shirts of Atleti, camped deep in their own half, against the white of Leipzig, quick, slick and full of attacking verve, was certainly stark. It was tempting even to wonder if Julian Nagelsmann, Europe's most exciting up-and-coming coach, was consigning the tactical methods of Simeone to the past. Yet the time for a painful separation is surely not now, after three months of encouragement that, with a much shorter summer pause, could well extend into 2020/21. Simeone has defended his team's inconsistency by calling this a "transition season", insisting the players signed last year, including the 126-million-euro Joao Felix, would always need time to bed in. There were departures to get over too - Diego Godin, Antoine Griezmann and Rodri among them - personality gaps that would be missed but over time could be refilled. For that process to complete, interest in the likes of Jan Oblak, Thomas Partey, Jose Gimenez and Saul Niguez this summer will have to be rebuffed. And the evolution that many feel is needed could come through a new assistant coach in Nelson Vivas, who will bring fresh ideas after he replaces Mono Burgos, Simeone's long-time number two. Atletico have stagnated but as football is forced by the pandemic to stand still, they have a team that can grow. In normal circumstances, Barcelona and Real Madrid would react to respective disappointments with aggression in the market but both are expected to start in September with much the same squad that finished in August. Atletico, and Simeone, need to take advantage.

Atletico's new era brings familiar failings as Simeone doubts return

Brazilian superstar Neymar insisted that Paris Saint-Germain always believed they could come back from the brink to defeat Atalanta with two goals in the dying moments of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.

"I never thought of going home. From start to finish, from the warm-up, we only thought of qualifying for the semi-finals," the world's most expensive footballer told RMC Sport.

Substitute Eric Choupo-Moting's goal three minutes into added time allowed PSG to beat the Italian outsiders 2-1.

Mario Pasalic gave Atalanta a 27th-minute lead but PSG were rescued when Marquinhos came forward to scramble in a last-minute equaliser.

Kylian Mbappe set up fellow substitute Choupo-Moting to win the tie right at the end.

The French champions will play RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid next Tuesday for a place in the final.

"Nobody is going to take my mind off that I want to go to the final," added 28-year-old Neymar as PSG made the last-four for the first time since 1995.&nbsp;

"We really have a great group, we're a family, we know that with this state of mind it's impossible. to put us out of competition.&nbsp;

"We knew that a ball could arrive, that even after the equaliser we could score a second goal."

Neymar hailed Atalanta, the team which captured the imagination of neutrals, reaching this stage despite their city of Bergamo being one of the worst hit by the coronavirus.

"Atalanta are a great team, they played very well, they are the surprise of the competition. They were very aggressive, we knew they were going to press us," said Neymar.

"Now we're going to have to rest, it was a tough game mentally.&nbsp;

"Another very difficult match is coming."

Brazilian superstar Neymar insisted that Paris Saint-Germain always believed they could come back from the brink to defeat Atalanta with two goals in the dying moments of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.

Brazilian superstar Neymar insisted that Paris Saint-Germain always believed they could come back from the brink to defeat Atalanta with two goals in the dying moments of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday. "I never thought of going home. From start to finish, from the warm-up, we only thought of qualifying for the semi-finals," the world's most expensive footballer told RMC Sport. Substitute Eric Choupo-Moting's goal three minutes into added time allowed PSG to beat the Italian outsiders 2-1. Mario Pasalic gave Atalanta a 27th-minute lead but PSG were rescued when Marquinhos came forward to scramble in a last-minute equaliser. Kylian Mbappe set up fellow substitute Choupo-Moting to win the tie right at the end. The French champions will play RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid next Tuesday for a place in the final. "Nobody is going to take my mind off that I want to go to the final," added 28-year-old Neymar as PSG made the last-four for the first time since 1995. "We really have a great group, we're a family, we know that with this state of mind it's impossible. to put us out of competition. "We knew that a ball could arrive, that even after the equaliser we could score a second goal." Neymar hailed Atalanta, the team which captured the imagination of neutrals, reaching this stage despite their city of Bergamo being one of the worst hit by the coronavirus. "Atalanta are a great team, they played very well, they are the surprise of the competition. They were very aggressive, we knew they were going to press us," said Neymar. "Now we're going to have to rest, it was a tough game mentally. "Another very difficult match is coming."

Neymar insists PSG always knew they could win after Atalanta triumph

After years of failing to live up to their billing in Europe, Paris Saint-Germain are within 90 minutes of the Champions League final thanks to their dramatic win over Atalanta on Wednesday, and coach Thomas Tuchel now knows "everything is possible" for his team.

PSG were on the verge of another disappointing Champions League exit as they trailed Atalanta 1-0 into the 90th minute in Lisbon, where all the latter stages are being played after the long coronavirus shutdown.

But Mario Pasalic's 27th-minute strike for the Italians was finally cancelled out by Marquinhos, who scrambled in a last-gasp leveller.

Then, three minutes into injury time, Kylian Mbappe set up fellow substitute Eric Choupo-Moting to convert the clinching goal.

"The goals came very late but we deserved the victory. We never stopped believing or attacking," said Tuchel, whose team will face Atletico Madrid or RB Leipzig in the semi-final, the club's first since 1995.

"The boys who came off the bench had a big impact. We deserved it, we made our own luck."

The money ploughed into the French champions by their Qatari owners has increased the pressure on PSG to deliver and losing to Atalanta would have invited more criticism of a club whose recent record in such games has been poor.

After all, Atalanta's entire wage bill is believed to be equivalent to what PSG pay Neymar per year (about 36 million euros, or $42.5m).

Absent from decisive Champions League games in the last two seasons because of injuries, Neymar was excellent here, never giving up. He set up the equaliser and played a part in the winner.

"Going home never crossed my mind," said the world's most expensive player.

Mbappe was only fit enough to play the final half-hour, after a spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, but his pace down the left flank had Atalanta on the back foot in the closing stages and he laid on the winner.

<h2>- Choupo-Moting makes his mark -</h2>

PSG will be hopeful the France star can start the semi-final next Tuesday, but it is thanks to Choupo-Moting that they are there at all.

"We've already won four titles this season but the most important is this one," declared the Cameroon striker.

It seems ironic that PSG -- the world's fifth-richest club according to this year's Deloitte Football League -- needed to rely on a free transfer from Stoke City to take them through to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since the Qatari takeover in 2011.

They had gone out in the last 16 the past three years, but Choupo-Moting's goal saw them break through the glass ceiling on the same day PSG marked their 50th anniversary.

From Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Ronaldinho, some fabulous players have turned out for the club in their relatively short history, although Choupo-Moting has not made much of a mark in his two seasons in Paris.

He had not previously scored in the Champions League and would probably have been best remembered for missing an open goal while standing on the line in a game against Strasbourg.

Indeed he would not even have been playing in this match in different circumstances.

Choupo-Moting's contract expired in June but he agreed to stay on for two months to play a part in the 'Final Eight' after Edinson Cavani -- PSG's all-time top scorer, who was also out of contract -- walked away.

And so the 31-year-old came on for the ineffective Mauro Icardi for the closing stages. He will at best have a bit-part role to play in the semi-final, though.

Mbappe could be ready to start then and Angel Di Maria will return from suspension, although Marco Verratti will probably be out again injured.

"There is a big difference between playing with or without Kylian," Tuchel said.

"That's clear, and it's the same with Marco and Angel. Now we have six days for Kylian to get back to his best.

"I'm not sure about Marco, but we are in the last four, everything is possible."

After years of failing to live up to their billing in Europe, Paris Saint-Germain are within 90 minutes of the Champions League final thanks to their dramatic win over Atalanta on Wednesday, and coach Thomas Tuchel now knows "everything is possible" for his team.

After years of failing to live up to their billing in Europe, Paris Saint-Germain are within 90 minutes of the Champions League final thanks to their dramatic win over Atalanta on Wednesday, and coach Thomas Tuchel now knows "everything is possible" for his team. PSG were on the verge of another disappointing Champions League exit as they trailed Atalanta 1-0 into the 90th minute in Lisbon, where all the latter stages are being played after the long coronavirus shutdown. But Mario Pasalic's 27th-minute strike for the Italians was finally cancelled out by Marquinhos, who scrambled in a last-gasp leveller. Then, three minutes into injury time, Kylian Mbappe set up fellow substitute Eric Choupo-Moting to convert the clinching goal. "The goals came very late but we deserved the victory. We never stopped believing or attacking," said Tuchel, whose team will face Atletico Madrid or RB Leipzig in the semi-final, the club's first since 1995. "The boys who came off the bench had a big impact. We deserved it, we made our own luck." The money ploughed into the French champions by their Qatari owners has increased the pressure on PSG to deliver and losing to Atalanta would have invited more criticism of a club whose recent record in such games has been poor. After all, Atalanta's entire wage bill is believed to be equivalent to what PSG pay Neymar per year (about 36 million euros, or $42.5m). Absent from decisive Champions League games in the last two seasons because of injuries, Neymar was excellent here, never giving up. He set up the equaliser and played a part in the winner. "Going home never crossed my mind," said the world's most expensive player. Mbappe was only fit enough to play the final half-hour, after a spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, but his pace down the left flank had Atalanta on the back foot in the closing stages and he laid on the winner. - Choupo-Moting makes his mark - PSG will be hopeful the France star can start the semi-final next Tuesday, but it is thanks to Choupo-Moting that they are there at all. "We've already won four titles this season but the most important is this one," declared the Cameroon striker. It seems ironic that PSG -- the world's fifth-richest club according to this year's Deloitte Football League -- needed to rely on a free transfer from Stoke City to take them through to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since the Qatari takeover in 2011. They had gone out in the last 16 the past three years, but Choupo-Moting's goal saw them break through the glass ceiling on the same day PSG marked their 50th anniversary. From Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Ronaldinho, some fabulous players have turned out for the club in their relatively short history, although Choupo-Moting has not made much of a mark in his two seasons in Paris. He had not previously scored in the Champions League and would probably have been best remembered for missing an open goal while standing on the line in a game against Strasbourg. Indeed he would not even have been playing in this match in different circumstances. Choupo-Moting's contract expired in June but he agreed to stay on for two months to play a part in the 'Final Eight' after Edinson Cavani -- PSG's all-time top scorer, who was also out of contract -- walked away. And so the 31-year-old came on for the ineffective Mauro Icardi for the closing stages. He will at best have a bit-part role to play in the semi-final, though. Mbappe could be ready to start then and Angel Di Maria will return from suspension, although Marco Verratti will probably be out again injured. "There is a big difference between playing with or without Kylian," Tuchel said. "That's clear, and it's the same with Marco and Angel. Now we have six days for Kylian to get back to his best. "I'm not sure about Marco, but we are in the last four, everything is possible."

PSG break through Champions League glass ceiling after years of disappointment

Four months behind schedule because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Champions League has reached the quarter-final stage with Paris Saint-Germain taking on outsiders Atalanta in Lisbon on Wednesday in the first game of the 'Final Eight'.

A straight knockout final tournament held in one place, akin to a World Cup or European Championship, was the only solution available to UEFA in order to complete its most lucrative club competition, suspended for five months from March until last weekend.

Two-legged quarter-finals and semi-finals have been done away with, and all eight teams have come to Lisbon, where they are following strict health guidelines including regular testing. No spectators are allowed inside stadiums.

PSG will therefore meet Atalanta at an empty Estadio da Luz on Wednesday at 1900 GMT, with the winners advancing to a semi-final against either Atletico Madrid or RB Leipzig, who play on Thursday.

The other quarter-finals are Barcelona against Bayern Munich -- the only clubs still in the competition to have won it before -- and Manchester City against Lyon.

The final will be on August 23, and UEFA can only hope there is no widespread outbreak of COVID-19 among any of the teams which could threaten the tournament.

European football's governing body has said that as long as a team has 13 healthy players including a goalkeeper, matches must go ahead, otherwise teams risk forfeiting matches.

There was a scare at the weekend when it was revealed two Atletico players had tested positive, but their squad has travelled to Portugal and their game is set to go ahead.

Before that match, PSG will look to reach the semi-finals for the first time since the Qatari takeover almost a decade ago and they were given a boost on the eve of their match against Atalanta as Kylian Mbappe was declared fit enough to play a part by coach Thomas Tuchel.

"If he trains well on Tuesday evening and nothing extraordinary happens, he will be in the team on Wednesday," Tuchel said.

Mbappe was left in a race against time to be fit for the start of the 'Final Eight' after suffering a sprained ankle in PSG's French Cup final win over Saint-Etienne on July 24.

<h2>- 'Extra motivation' -</h2>

Opponents Atalanta -- with an annual wage bill for their entire squad believed to be equivalent to Neymar's salary for the year at PSG -- are in the Champions League for the first time.

The Italians are fresh from finishing third in Serie A and are spurred on by the terrible suffering of their home city of Bergamo at the peak of the pandemic earlier this year.

"There is extra motivation for us after what has happened. We have to represent our city in the best possible way and give the people something to smile about," said the Atalanta coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, on Tuesday.

The final of this season's Champions League was initially due to be played in Istanbul in late May before it was postponed and this new format introduced.

Usually such an event would see a huge influx of foreign fans but the atmosphere in Lisbon this time is rather different, even if some supporters have travelled and one study has estimated 16,000 will come in total over the next 10 days.&nbsp;

"The atmosphere is bizarre. The city seems empty and the bars close early," one Atalanta fan, who plans to watch the match in a bar, told AFP.

Restrictions remain in place in and around Lisbon in an attempt to stop a resurgence of the virus.

Those include limiting gatherings to no more than 10 people and banning alcohol consumption in public, while shops and cafes must close at 8:00pm, the time matches will kick off.

Four months behind schedule because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Champions League has reached the quarter-final stage with Paris Saint-Germain taking on outsiders Atalanta in Lisbon on Wednesday in the first game of the 'Final Eight'.

Four months behind schedule because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Champions League has reached the quarter-final stage with Paris Saint-Germain taking on outsiders Atalanta in Lisbon on Wednesday in the first game of the 'Final Eight'. A straight knockout final tournament held in one place, akin to a World Cup or European Championship, was the only solution available to UEFA in order to complete its most lucrative club competition, suspended for five months from March until last weekend. Two-legged quarter-finals and semi-finals have been done away with, and all eight teams have come to Lisbon, where they are following strict health guidelines including regular testing. No spectators are allowed inside stadiums. PSG will therefore meet Atalanta at an empty Estadio da Luz on Wednesday at 1900 GMT, with the winners advancing to a semi-final against either Atletico Madrid or RB Leipzig, who play on Thursday. The other quarter-finals are Barcelona against Bayern Munich -- the only clubs still in the competition to have won it before -- and Manchester City against Lyon. The final will be on August 23, and UEFA can only hope there is no widespread outbreak of COVID-19 among any of the teams which could threaten the tournament. European football's governing body has said that as long as a team has 13 healthy players including a goalkeeper, matches must go ahead, otherwise teams risk forfeiting matches. There was a scare at the weekend when it was revealed two Atletico players had tested positive, but their squad has travelled to Portugal and their game is set to go ahead. Before that match, PSG will look to reach the semi-finals for the first time since the Qatari takeover almost a decade ago and they were given a boost on the eve of their match against Atalanta as Kylian Mbappe was declared fit enough to play a part by coach Thomas Tuchel. "If he trains well on Tuesday evening and nothing extraordinary happens, he will be in the team on Wednesday," Tuchel said. Mbappe was left in a race against time to be fit for the start of the 'Final Eight' after suffering a sprained ankle in PSG's French Cup final win over Saint-Etienne on July 24. - 'Extra motivation' - Opponents Atalanta -- with an annual wage bill for their entire squad believed to be equivalent to Neymar's salary for the year at PSG -- are in the Champions League for the first time. The Italians are fresh from finishing third in Serie A and are spurred on by the terrible suffering of their home city of Bergamo at the peak of the pandemic earlier this year. "There is extra motivation for us after what has happened. We have to represent our city in the best possible way and give the people something to smile about," said the Atalanta coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, on Tuesday. The final of this season's Champions League was initially due to be played in Istanbul in late May before it was postponed and this new format introduced. Usually such an event would see a huge influx of foreign fans but the atmosphere in Lisbon this time is rather different, even if some supporters have travelled and one study has estimated 16,000 will come in total over the next 10 days. "The atmosphere is bizarre. The city seems empty and the bars close early," one Atalanta fan, who plans to watch the match in a bar, told AFP. Restrictions remain in place in and around Lisbon in an attempt to stop a resurgence of the virus. Those include limiting gatherings to no more than 10 people and banning alcohol consumption in public, while shops and cafes must close at 8:00pm, the time matches will kick off.

Champions League 'Final Eight' kicks off as PSG and Atalanta clash in Lisbon

One Barcelona player has tested positive for COVID-19 but the player was not in contact with the squad travelling to Lisbon, Portugal for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> quarter-final clash against Bayern Munich, the Spanish club said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A small group of players were set to commence their pre-season on Wednesday and the club conducted tests on a group of nine players out of which one result came out positive. However, the club clarified that the player didn’t come in contact with the main squad that travelled to Lisbon for UCL while adding he has no symptoms, is in good health and will be quarantined at his home.

"Following PCR tests conducted this Tuesday afternoon on the group of nine players due to begin the preseason today, one of them has tested positive for COVID-19," Barcelona said in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-to-stop-lionel-messi-bayerns-leon-goretzka-opines-319949" hreflang="en">How to stop Lionel Messi? Bayern's Leon Goretzka opines</a>

"The player has not been in contact with any of the senior team players who are scheduled to travel to Lisbon this Thursday to compete in the Champions League."

The club added the player, who they did not name, "has no symptoms, is in good health and has been quarantined at his home".

Barcelona successfully defeated Napoli 3-1 in the second leg following a Lionel Messi masterclass as the Spanish club advanced to the ‘Final 8’ with an aggregate score of 4-2 over Napoli.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sevilla-reach-europa-semis-as-wolves-pay-for-penalty-miss-319910" hreflang="en">Sevilla reach Europa semis as Wolves pay for penalty miss</a>

Barca are now set to face Bundesliga winners and in-form Bayern Munich side, behind closed doors, in Lisbon on Friday.

The Final 8 of UEFA Champions League will be played in a one-legged fixture scrapping the traditional two-legged affairs due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

One Barcelona player has tested positive for COVID-19 but the player was not in contact with the squad travelling to Lisbon, Portugal for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Bayern Munich, the Spanish club said on Wednesday.

One Barcelona player has tested positive for COVID-19 but the player was not in contact with the squad travelling to Lisbon, Portugal for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Bayern Munich, the Spanish club said on Wednesday. A small group of players were set to commence their pre-season on Wednesday and the club conducted tests on a group of nine players out of which one result came out positive. However, the club clarified that the player didn’t come in contact with the main squad that travelled to Lisbon for UCL while adding he has no symptoms, is in good health and will be quarantined at his home. "Following PCR tests conducted this Tuesday afternoon on the group of nine players due to begin the preseason today, one of them has tested positive for COVID-19," Barcelona said in a statement. ALSO READ: How to stop Lionel Messi? Bayern's Leon Goretzka opines "The player has not been in contact with any of the senior team players who are scheduled to travel to Lisbon this Thursday to compete in the Champions League." The club added the player, who they did not name, "has no symptoms, is in good health and has been quarantined at his home". Barcelona successfully defeated Napoli 3-1 in the second leg following a Lionel Messi masterclass as the Spanish club advanced to the ‘Final 8’ with an aggregate score of 4-2 over Napoli. ALSO READ: Sevilla reach Europa semis as Wolves pay for penalty miss Barca are now set to face Bundesliga winners and in-form Bayern Munich side, behind closed doors, in Lisbon on Friday. The Final 8 of UEFA Champions League will be played in a one-legged fixture scrapping the traditional two-legged affairs due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Barcelona report one COVID-19 case; player had no contact with Champions League squad

Ahead of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

Goretzka said thousands of players have tried to answer the question but only few have been able to curb the extraordinary talent of Messi while adding it is only possible if team works on it collectively.

"Thousands of people before me have tried to answer this question," Goretzka replied Tuesday in Lisbon when asked how to stop Messi.

"It is nice - after playing against (Juventus star Cristiano) Ronaldo a few times - to play the other formative player of the last decade.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-eight-kicks-off-as-psg-and-atalanta-clash-in-lisbon-319906" hreflang="en">Champions League 'Final Eight' kicks off as PSG and Atalanta clash in Lisbon</a>

"That can only be done collectively," the 25-year-old central midfielder said of Messi, "because he is a gifted footballer".

"I don't know how, but we have to force our game on them."

Messi, who has 31 goals this season, is looking to win his fifth Champions League with Barcelona but have to face a rampant, treble-chasing Bayern Munich, who have won all their 13 matches since the COVID-19 lockdown restart.

Their sensational form was underlined when Robert Lewandowski netted twice in their second-leg round of 15 rout against Chelsea as the won 7-1 on aggregate. Lewandowski has scored more than 50 goals this season in all competitions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-quarter-finals-guide-319793" hreflang="en">Champions League quarter-finals guide</a>

Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eight consecutive Bundesliga title while also lifting the German Cup.

However, Goretzka is of the view that Bayern are the real test. "There is no easy way now. We are here in the sun in Portugal and are preparing for a knockout game in the Champions League," he said.

"We're really up for it. Knockout matches are great."

"At the moment, we're playing as a unit, in addition to the quality of the individual players. We have a clear plan in hand and our intensity without the ball can make the difference."&nbsp;

But he admitted being wary of Arturo Vidal, Barca's ex-Bayern midfielder.

"I got to know him for a few weeks and played against him many times. He has a first-class mentality with amazing fitness," added Goretzka.

"I noticed that during fitness tests - which I took next to him - he can go beyond the pain threshold." 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi.

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash between Barcelona and Bayern Munich in Lisbon, midfielder Leon Goretzka said that the Bundesliga winners are chalking out plans to stop the legendary Lionel Messi. Goretzka said thousands of players have tried to answer the question but only few have been able to curb the extraordinary talent of Messi while adding it is only possible if team works on it collectively. "Thousands of people before me have tried to answer this question," Goretzka replied Tuesday in Lisbon when asked how to stop Messi. "It is nice - after playing against (Juventus star Cristiano) Ronaldo a few times - to play the other formative player of the last decade. ALSO READ: Champions League 'Final Eight' kicks off as PSG and Atalanta clash in Lisbon "That can only be done collectively," the 25-year-old central midfielder said of Messi, "because he is a gifted footballer". "I don't know how, but we have to force our game on them." Messi, who has 31 goals this season, is looking to win his fifth Champions League with Barcelona but have to face a rampant, treble-chasing Bayern Munich, who have won all their 13 matches since the COVID-19 lockdown restart. Their sensational form was underlined when Robert Lewandowski netted twice in their second-leg round of 15 rout against Chelsea as the won 7-1 on aggregate. Lewandowski has scored more than 50 goals this season in all competitions. ALSO READ: Champions League quarter-finals guide Bayern are chasing the treble after winning an eight consecutive Bundesliga title while also lifting the German Cup. However, Goretzka is of the view that Bayern are the real test. "There is no easy way now. We are here in the sun in Portugal and are preparing for a knockout game in the Champions League," he said. "We're really up for it. Knockout matches are great." "At the moment, we're playing as a unit, in addition to the quality of the individual players. We have a clear plan in hand and our intensity without the ball can make the difference." But he admitted being wary of Arturo Vidal, Barca's ex-Bayern midfielder. "I got to know him for a few weeks and played against him many times. He has a first-class mentality with amazing fitness," added Goretzka. "I noticed that during fitness tests - which I took next to him - he can go beyond the pain threshold."

How to stop Lionel Messi? Bayern's Leon Goretzka opines

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition:

<h2>- Atalanta v PSG -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT)

On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill.

However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time.

Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop.

They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem.

That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe.

This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches.

Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons.

<h2>- RB Leipzig v Atletico -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT)

Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March.&nbsp;

Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal.&nbsp;

Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February.&nbsp;

RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea.&nbsp;

The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner.&nbsp;

<h2>- Barcelona v Bayern -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT)

These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round.

Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely.

Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row.

In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else.

Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad.

The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title.

<h2>- Man City v Lyon -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT)

Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week.&nbsp;

City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23.&nbsp;

City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence.&nbsp;

Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh.&nbsp;

However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties. AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition: - Atalanta v PSG - (Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT) On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill. However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time. Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop. They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem. That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe. This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches. Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate. Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons. - RB Leipzig v Atletico - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT) Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March. Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal. Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February. RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea. The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner. - Barcelona v Bayern - (Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT) These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round. Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely. Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row. In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else. Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad. The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title. - Man City v Lyon - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT) Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week. City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23. City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence. Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh. However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

Champions League quarter-finals guide

Spanish side Atletico Madrid on Sunday reported two positive coronavirus tests, just four days before they face Leipzig in Portugal for a place in the Champions League semi-finals.

"On Saturday, all members of the first team and the club's party to Lisbon underwent tests as required by UEFA protocols to participate in the quarter-finals of the Champions League," said a club statement.

"Among the results known today, two positives have appeared and they are self-isolating in their respective homes."

It was not revealed whether the two positive cases involved players or backroom staff.

Atletico said UEFA as well as the Spanish and Portuguese football and health authorities have been informed and that a fresh round of tests will be carried out on the squad and support team.

They admitted this could mean last-minute changes to travel schedules as well as accommodation plans in the Portuguese capital.&nbsp;

"The club will coordinate the new schedules with UEFA and as soon as there is a new plan it will be made public," added the statement.

"We also request the utmost respect over the identity of the two positive cases."

The team were due to travel to Portugal on Monday for the closing stages of the Champions League which is being held in Lisbon as a precaution against COVID-19 rather than risk having teams travelling across Europe for home-and-away ties.

The self-contained eight-team tournament will be staged behind closed doors, starting on Wednesday with the final set for Lisbon on August 23.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Local quarantines -</h2>

Spain has so far been one of the countries worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic, with 310,000 registered infections and 28,500 deaths.

Although most sports have returned from a months-long lockdown caused by the virus, there are concerns that numbers of cases are beginning to rise again.

In recent days, Spain has seen local quarantines imposed in the Basque Country, Catalonia and Aragon.

Protective face masks have been made compulsory in several busy areas, especially in the Madrid region.

Last month, Atletico's city rivals Real Madrid announced forward Mariano Diaz had tested positive for COVID-19.

Sevilla, meanwhile, reported an unnamed player had also contracted the illness.

Real have since been knocked out of the Champions League but Sevilla are still involved in the Europa League.

They play English side Wolves in their quarter-final in Duisburg, Germany, on Tuesday.

The Champions League had been put on hold since March because of the virus with the last-16 stage only completed on Friday and Saturday.

In their statement on Sunday, Atletico were keen to reassure football authorities, explaining that they had followed a very strict protocol even after the end of La Liga season on July 19.&nbsp;

Weekly tests were carried out on July 26 and August 2.

For its 'Final Eight' tournament in Portugal, UEFA has planned strict protocols -- each team will have to provide test results before travelling to the country, and will be tested again on the eve of their first match.

Each positive test will require the individual to self-isolate.

Spanish side Atletico Madrid on Sunday reported two positive coronavirus tests, just four days before they face Leipzig in Portugal for a place in the Champions League semi-finals.

Spanish side Atletico Madrid on Sunday reported two positive coronavirus tests, just four days before they face Leipzig in Portugal for a place in the Champions League semi-finals. "On Saturday, all members of the first team and the club's party to Lisbon underwent tests as required by UEFA protocols to participate in the quarter-finals of the Champions League," said a club statement. "Among the results known today, two positives have appeared and they are self-isolating in their respective homes." It was not revealed whether the two positive cases involved players or backroom staff. Atletico said UEFA as well as the Spanish and Portuguese football and health authorities have been informed and that a fresh round of tests will be carried out on the squad and support team. They admitted this could mean last-minute changes to travel schedules as well as accommodation plans in the Portuguese capital. "The club will coordinate the new schedules with UEFA and as soon as there is a new plan it will be made public," added the statement. "We also request the utmost respect over the identity of the two positive cases." The team were due to travel to Portugal on Monday for the closing stages of the Champions League which is being held in Lisbon as a precaution against COVID-19 rather than risk having teams travelling across Europe for home-and-away ties. The self-contained eight-team tournament will be staged behind closed doors, starting on Wednesday with the final set for Lisbon on August 23. - Local quarantines - Spain has so far been one of the countries worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic, with 310,000 registered infections and 28,500 deaths. Although most sports have returned from a months-long lockdown caused by the virus, there are concerns that numbers of cases are beginning to rise again. In recent days, Spain has seen local quarantines imposed in the Basque Country, Catalonia and Aragon. Protective face masks have been made compulsory in several busy areas, especially in the Madrid region. Last month, Atletico's city rivals Real Madrid announced forward Mariano Diaz had tested positive for COVID-19. Sevilla, meanwhile, reported an unnamed player had also contracted the illness. Real have since been knocked out of the Champions League but Sevilla are still involved in the Europa League. They play English side Wolves in their quarter-final in Duisburg, Germany, on Tuesday. The Champions League had been put on hold since March because of the virus with the last-16 stage only completed on Friday and Saturday. In their statement on Sunday, Atletico were keen to reassure football authorities, explaining that they had followed a very strict protocol even after the end of La Liga season on July 19. Weekly tests were carried out on July 26 and August 2. For its 'Final Eight' tournament in Portugal, UEFA has planned strict protocols -- each team will have to provide test results before travelling to the country, and will be tested again on the eve of their first match. Each positive test will require the individual to self-isolate.

Champions League setback as Atletico report two positive coronavirus cases

UEFA on Monday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus.

Atletico on Sunday reported two individuals had tested positive for COVID-19 just days before the face the German Club in Lisbon, where all the matches of the UEFA Champions League ‘Final-8’ is set to take place. However, the club didn’t clarify whether the it was the players, coaching staff or officials who had tested positive for coronavirus.

Atletico confirmed that a fresh round of tests was being carried out on the squad and backroom staff on Monday.&nbsp;

A UEFA spokesman said: "The match is planned to be played as scheduled. We have no further comments to make." 
Atletico Madrid on Sunday, in a statement, said that the two members who had tested positive “are self-isolating at their respective homes”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-full-schedule-timings-of-quarter-finals-semis-and-final-319410" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final</a>

After football was came to screeching halt due to COVID-19 outbreak in March, UEFA came to a conclusion that the Champions League will be completed in a Final-8 tournament in Lisbon with one-legged match replacing the traditional two-legged affairs.

Under the UEFA protocol for European competitions, a team must have 13 healthy players, including a goalkeeper for a match to go ahead. If not then UEFA can give green signal for the match to be rescheduled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-setback-as-atletico-report-two-positive-coronavirus-cases-319378" hreflang="en">Champions League setback as Atletico report two positive coronavirus cases</a>

The quarter-finals start on Wednesday when Italian side Atalanta take on Paris Saint-Germain. The final is scheduled to take place on August 23. 
&nbsp;

UEFA on Monday said that the Champions League quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus.

UEFA on Monday said that the Champions League quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus. Atletico on Sunday reported two individuals had tested positive for COVID-19 just days before the face the German Club in Lisbon, where all the matches of the UEFA Champions League ‘Final-8’ is set to take place. However, the club didn’t clarify whether the it was the players, coaching staff or officials who had tested positive for coronavirus. Atletico confirmed that a fresh round of tests was being carried out on the squad and backroom staff on Monday. A UEFA spokesman said: "The match is planned to be played as scheduled. We have no further comments to make." Atletico Madrid on Sunday, in a statement, said that the two members who had tested positive “are self-isolating at their respective homes”. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final After football was came to screeching halt due to COVID-19 outbreak in March, UEFA came to a conclusion that the Champions League will be completed in a Final-8 tournament in Lisbon with one-legged match replacing the traditional two-legged affairs. Under the UEFA protocol for European competitions, a team must have 13 healthy players, including a goalkeeper for a match to go ahead. If not then UEFA can give green signal for the match to be rescheduled. ALSO READ: Champions League setback as Atletico report two positive coronavirus cases The quarter-finals start on Wednesday when Italian side Atalanta take on Paris Saint-Germain. The final is scheduled to take place on August 23.

Champions League: UEFA say Atletico Madrid v RB Leipzig match 'to be played as scheduled'

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2019-20</a> is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the UCL will witness a brand new format with teams playing just one-legged matches instead of the traditional two-legged encounters.&nbsp;

Atalanta, Paris Saint-German, Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Olympique Lyon, Red Bull Leipzig and Atletico Madrid have qualified for the ‘Final-8’, which is set to kickstart from Wednesday in Lisbon, Portugal.&nbsp;

The qualified teams will have their eyes set on the coveted trophy with a new winner guaranteed after Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in the last round itself.&nbsp;

<h2>UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Full fixtures, schedule, timing of Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and Final (all matches at 1900 GMT or 12:30 am IST):</h2>

<h2>Quarter-finals</h2>

Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA): Wednesday, Estadio da Luz

RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP): Thursday, Estadio Jose Alvalade

Barcelona (ESP) v Bayern Munich (GER): Friday, Estadio da Luz

Manchester City (ENG) v Lyon (FRA): Saturday, Estadio Jose Alvalade

<h2>Semi-finals</h2>

RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain: Tuesday, August 18, Estadio da Luz

Manchester City or Lyon v Barcelona or Bayern Munich: Wednesday, August 19, Estadio Jose Alvalade

Final on August 23 at Estadio da Luz 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Champions League 2019-20 is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final.

The UEFA Champions League 2019-20 is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the UCL will witness a brand new format with teams playing just one-legged matches instead of the traditional two-legged encounters. Atalanta, Paris Saint-German, Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Olympique Lyon, Red Bull Leipzig and Atletico Madrid have qualified for the ‘Final-8’, which is set to kickstart from Wednesday in Lisbon, Portugal. The qualified teams will have their eyes set on the coveted trophy with a new winner guaranteed after Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in the last round itself. UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Full fixtures, schedule, timing of Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and Final (all matches at 1900 GMT or 12:30 am IST): Quarter-finals Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA): Wednesday, Estadio da Luz RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP): Thursday, Estadio Jose Alvalade Barcelona (ESP) v Bayern Munich (GER): Friday, Estadio da Luz Manchester City (ENG) v Lyon (FRA): Saturday, Estadio Jose Alvalade Semi-finals RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain: Tuesday, August 18, Estadio da Luz Manchester City or Lyon v Barcelona or Bayern Munich: Wednesday, August 19, Estadio Jose Alvalade Final on August 23 at Estadio da Luz

UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday.&nbsp;

But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle.&nbsp;

Bale was left out of the squad and has not travelled to Manchester, where Madrid are aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in February to reach the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Sources close to Bale claim he told Zidane he did not want to travel, after finding out he was not included in the squad, but was ready to play.&nbsp;

"There is a relationship of respect between player and coach," Zidane said in a press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;

"He preferred not to play, nothing more, and the rest is between me and him."&nbsp;

Zidane said it was a personal decision rather than a technical one but would not be drawn on details, insisting "there are things that have to stay in the changing room".&nbsp;

Bale's omission adds another low point to a turbulent season for the Welshman, who only started one of Madrid's last 11 matches after La Liga resumed in March.&nbsp;

Asked about Bale's future at Real Madrid, Zidane said: "Gareth Bale is a Real Madrid player, nothing has changed and I respect him like everyone else."&nbsp;

Zidane had more positive news regarding Hazard, whom he says is fit to face City, despite feeling pain in his troublesome right ankle last month.&nbsp;

"He had some problems at the end of La Liga but now he is much better and we have had a lot of time to prepare for this match," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"I think he's fine and feels confident."&nbsp;

Hazard underwent surgery in March on his ankle but still had his minutes managed during the run-in.&nbsp;

"Playing every two or three days made it difficult for him to recover," said Zidane. "But he is fine now and shouldn't be playing with discomfort."&nbsp;

Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos against City, who will start the match as favourites to progress.&nbsp;

"We have a disadvantage," Zidane said. "But we know tomorrow is another game and that knock-out games aren't over until the last minute."&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday. But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle.

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday. But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle. Bale was left out of the squad and has not travelled to Manchester, where Madrid are aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in February to reach the quarter-finals. Sources close to Bale claim he told Zidane he did not want to travel, after finding out he was not included in the squad, but was ready to play. "There is a relationship of respect between player and coach," Zidane said in a press conference on Thursday. "He preferred not to play, nothing more, and the rest is between me and him." Zidane said it was a personal decision rather than a technical one but would not be drawn on details, insisting "there are things that have to stay in the changing room". Bale's omission adds another low point to a turbulent season for the Welshman, who only started one of Madrid's last 11 matches after La Liga resumed in March. Asked about Bale's future at Real Madrid, Zidane said: "Gareth Bale is a Real Madrid player, nothing has changed and I respect him like everyone else." Zidane had more positive news regarding Hazard, whom he says is fit to face City, despite feeling pain in his troublesome right ankle last month. "He had some problems at the end of La Liga but now he is much better and we have had a lot of time to prepare for this match," said Zidane. "I think he's fine and feels confident." Hazard underwent surgery in March on his ankle but still had his minutes managed during the run-in. "Playing every two or three days made it difficult for him to recover," said Zidane. "But he is fine now and shouldn't be playing with discomfort." Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos against City, who will start the match as favourites to progress. "We have a disadvantage," Zidane said. "But we know tomorrow is another game and that knock-out games aren't over until the last minute."

Bale did not want to play against Man City, says Zidane

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay.

Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown.&nbsp;

Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley.

Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta&nbsp;is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded.

Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, &nbsp;both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks.

Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay.

"Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung.

"David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game."

Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign.

Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form.

Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season.

With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille.

Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old.

Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich.

Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba.

However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display. Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown. Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley. Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded. Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks. Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay. "Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung. "David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game." Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign. Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form. Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season. With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille. Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old. Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich. Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba. However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern hope Champions League success can convince Alcantara, Alaba to stay

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled.&nbsp;

The last 16 matches of UCL and UEL have stood postponed since the coronavirus shutdown in March which not only affected the world of football but almost every other sport. While the European leagues have now been completed, the focus shifts onto the Champions League and Europa League set to commence from August 7 and August 5 respectively.&nbsp;

<h2>Here are the full fixtures of UEF Champions League last 16 second legs.&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Champions League last 16 second legs: Full fixtures</h2>

Friday, August 7

At Turin, Italy

Juventus (ITA) v Lyon (FRA)

Lyon won first leg 1-0

At Manchester, England

Manchester City (ENG) v Real Madrid (ESP)

Man City won first leg 2-1

Saturday, August 8

At Munich, Germany

Bayern Munich (GER) v Chelsea (ENG)

Bayern won first leg 3-0

At Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona (ESP) v Napoli (ITA)

First leg 1-1

Final stages to be played in Lisbon

Quarter-finals August 12-15; Semi-finals August 18-19; Final August 23

<h2>Europa League last 16: Full fixtures</h2>

Wednesday, August 5

At Kiev (1655 GMT)

Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) v Wolfsburg (GER) &nbsp;

Shakhtar won first leg 2-1

At Copenhagen (1655 GMT)

FC Copenhagen (DEN) v Istanbul Basaksehir (TUR)

Istanbul Basaksehir won first leg 1-0

At Manchester, England

Manchester United (ENG) v LASK (AUT)

Man Utd won first leg 5-0

At Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Inter Milan (ITA) v Getafe (ESP)

First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie

Thursday, August 6

At Duisburg, Germany (1655 GMT)

Sevilla (ESP) v Roma (ITA)

First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie

At Leverkusen, Germany (1655 GMT)

Bayer Leverkusen (GER) v Rangers (SCO)

Leverkusen won first leg 3-1

At Basel, Switzerland

Basel (SUI) v Eintracht Frankfurt (GER)

Basel won first leg 3-0

At Wolverhampton, England

Wolverhampton Wanderers (ENG) v Olympiakos (GRE)

First leg 1-1

Final stages to be played in Germany

Quarter-finals August 10-11; Semi-finals August 16-17; Final in Cologne on August 21 
&nbsp;

UEFA Champions League and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled.

UEFA Champions League and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled. The last 16 matches of UCL and UEL have stood postponed since the coronavirus shutdown in March which not only affected the world of football but almost every other sport. While the European leagues have now been completed, the focus shifts onto the Champions League and Europa League set to commence from August 7 and August 5 respectively. Here are the full fixtures of UEF Champions League last 16 second legs. Champions League last 16 second legs: Full fixtures Friday, August 7 At Turin, Italy Juventus (ITA) v Lyon (FRA) Lyon won first leg 1-0 At Manchester, England Manchester City (ENG) v Real Madrid (ESP) Man City won first leg 2-1 Saturday, August 8 At Munich, Germany Bayern Munich (GER) v Chelsea (ENG) Bayern won first leg 3-0 At Barcelona, Spain Barcelona (ESP) v Napoli (ITA) First leg 1-1 Final stages to be played in Lisbon Quarter-finals August 12-15; Semi-finals August 18-19; Final August 23 Europa League last 16: Full fixtures Wednesday, August 5 At Kiev (1655 GMT) Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) v Wolfsburg (GER) Shakhtar won first leg 2-1 At Copenhagen (1655 GMT) FC Copenhagen (DEN) v Istanbul Basaksehir (TUR) Istanbul Basaksehir won first leg 1-0 At Manchester, England Manchester United (ENG) v LASK (AUT) Man Utd won first leg 5-0 At Gelsenkirchen, Germany Inter Milan (ITA) v Getafe (ESP) First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie Thursday, August 6 At Duisburg, Germany (1655 GMT) Sevilla (ESP) v Roma (ITA) First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie At Leverkusen, Germany (1655 GMT) Bayer Leverkusen (GER) v Rangers (SCO) Leverkusen won first leg 3-1 At Basel, Switzerland Basel (SUI) v Eintracht Frankfurt (GER) Basel won first leg 3-0 At Wolverhampton, England Wolverhampton Wanderers (ENG) v Olympiakos (GRE) First leg 1-1 Final stages to be played in Germany Quarter-finals August 10-11; Semi-finals August 16-17; Final in Cologne on August 21

UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician".

Silva has won 11 domestic trophies in his golden decade in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports.

But despite City's domestic supremacy they have yet to get their hands on the Champions League trophy.

The 34-year-old Spaniard was one of the first star names to join the Abu-Dhabi-backed revolution in Manchester.

Now he has a final shot at the one major trophy missing from his impressive collection, which includes winners' medals with Spain from the World Cup and two European championships.

City, who have never been crowned European champions, on Friday host 13-time winners Madrid, leading 2-1 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in February.

The winners will progress to the latter stages of the competition, scheduled to take place in Lisbon later this month.

Kevin De Bruyne, who has had the joy of playing alongside Silva for the past five years, says his teammate will leave a huge hole when he leaves the Etihad.

"He is going to be a big miss," said the Belgium midfielder. "It would be great if we could win the Champions League so it could end well for him."

De Bruyne believes Silva is one of the best players to have graced the Premier League.

"You can always debate who is (number) one but when you play with him you can appreciate what he does day-in, day-out," he said.

<h2>- Special player -</h2>

&nbsp;

City boss Pep Guardiola coached Lionel Messi and Silva's long-time international teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi at Barcelona but claims "in small spaces, in the pockets, I never saw a player like him (Silva)".

Finishing the job against Madrid would be particularly sweet for a player who rarely received the same fanfare as players such as Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Ramos in his homeland for Spain's three international tournament triumphs between 2008 and 2012.

Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, but his decision to join City rather than make the move to Madrid or Barcelona when leaving Valencia a decade ago made him easier to overlook for many in Spain.

"If he had gone to Barcelona everyone would be saying he is one of the best players in the world," said Roberto Mancini, City manager when Silva arrived in Manchester.

Silva's selfless style and quiet demeanour have also contributed to a lack of individual awards but he has always been appreciated by his teammates.

“He’s someone who doesn’t talk much, but he leads by example," added Guardiola. "He is such a competitor."

Although City may now be more reliant on De Bruyne's brilliance than Silva's skill, the Spaniard's experience of winning some of the game's biggest prizes could be crucial against a side boasting a host of four-time Champions League winners.

Since football's restart in June, City have won all eight games in which they have scored the first goal by a combined score of 33-1, including a 4-0 rout of Liverpool, but have lost all three when they conceded first.

Two away goals in Madrid mean there is no onus on City to open themselves up and expose a shaky defence, which cost them nine defeats and their Premier League crown.

It is not Guardiola's way to defend with men behind the ball, but they can protect themselves by keeping possession.

There are few better at that than Silva and City need one more masterclass before he draws the curtain on his time in Manchester.

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician".

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician". Silva has won 11 domestic trophies in his golden decade in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports. But despite City's domestic supremacy they have yet to get their hands on the Champions League trophy. The 34-year-old Spaniard was one of the first star names to join the Abu-Dhabi-backed revolution in Manchester. Now he has a final shot at the one major trophy missing from his impressive collection, which includes winners' medals with Spain from the World Cup and two European championships. City, who have never been crowned European champions, on Friday host 13-time winners Madrid, leading 2-1 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in February. The winners will progress to the latter stages of the competition, scheduled to take place in Lisbon later this month. Kevin De Bruyne, who has had the joy of playing alongside Silva for the past five years, says his teammate will leave a huge hole when he leaves the Etihad. "He is going to be a big miss," said the Belgium midfielder. "It would be great if we could win the Champions League so it could end well for him." De Bruyne believes Silva is one of the best players to have graced the Premier League. "You can always debate who is (number) one but when you play with him you can appreciate what he does day-in, day-out," he said. - Special player - City boss Pep Guardiola coached Lionel Messi and Silva's long-time international teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi at Barcelona but claims "in small spaces, in the pockets, I never saw a player like him (Silva)". Finishing the job against Madrid would be particularly sweet for a player who rarely received the same fanfare as players such as Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Ramos in his homeland for Spain's three international tournament triumphs between 2008 and 2012. Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, but his decision to join City rather than make the move to Madrid or Barcelona when leaving Valencia a decade ago made him easier to overlook for many in Spain. "If he had gone to Barcelona everyone would be saying he is one of the best players in the world," said Roberto Mancini, City manager when Silva arrived in Manchester. Silva's selfless style and quiet demeanour have also contributed to a lack of individual awards but he has always been appreciated by his teammates. “He’s someone who doesn’t talk much, but he leads by example," added Guardiola. "He is such a competitor." Although City may now be more reliant on De Bruyne's brilliance than Silva's skill, the Spaniard's experience of winning some of the game's biggest prizes could be crucial against a side boasting a host of four-time Champions League winners. Since football's restart in June, City have won all eight games in which they have scored the first goal by a combined score of 33-1, including a 4-0 rout of Liverpool, but have lost all three when they conceded first. Two away goals in Madrid mean there is no onus on City to open themselves up and expose a shaky defence, which cost them nine defeats and their Premier League crown. It is not Guardiola's way to defend with men behind the ball, but they can protect themselves by keeping possession. There are few better at that than Silva and City need one more masterclass before he draws the curtain on his time in Manchester.

Silva has last shot at European glory before Man City goodbye

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.&nbsp;

Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg.

Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain.&nbsp;

Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season.&nbsp;

"We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player."

But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico.&nbsp;

There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season.&nbsp;

He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether.&nbsp;

He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas.

Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle.&nbsp;

When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term.&nbsp;

Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances.&nbsp;

“Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month.

In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start.&nbsp;

There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement.&nbsp;

Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.&nbsp;

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him. Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals. "We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg. Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain. Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season. "We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player." But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico. There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season. He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether. He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas. Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle. When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term. Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances. “Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month. In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start. There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement. Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.

Another chance for Hazard but Madrid can beat City without him

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection.

Man City have dominated English football in the last decade and more so after Pep Guardiola took the charge as manager of the club. However, they finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League this season and are yet to add the Champions League to their trophy cabinet.

“City have unfinished business in the Champions League, we have been talking about it for a long time, it’s the thing we are missing,” Laporte told Spanish newspaper AS on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a>

“Last year we won four trophies in the same season but couldn’t win the Champions League, so if it’s our turn this year, perfect.”

<h2>Man City have all the ingredients to do great things: Laporte</h2>

Manchester City were knocked out from the quarter-finals in 2019 on away goals after VAR ruled out a last-gasp winner. In 2017, they were beaten on away goals by AS Monaco in the last 16.&nbsp;

“I don’t know what we’ve been doing wrong as the team has been the same in the last few years. Away goals have been key. Last year Tottenham scored the same number of goals as us but eliminated us,” added Laporte.

“We have all the ingredients to do great things. The team is really up for it, we don’t have to change much, we just need a little more luck. We have lacked that final spark which I’m sure we’ll find soon.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/travel-restrictions-may-force-football-clubs-to-forfeit-european-games-next-season-318377" hreflang="en">Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season</a>

Man City have a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid ahead of Friday’s second-leg tie at the Etihad Stadium and will be without ace striker Sergio Aguero. Whereas, the Spanish outfit will be missing skipper Sergio Ramos, who was sent off in the first-leg.&nbsp;

“Everyone knows Aguero, he’s an important player to be missing just like theirs. All the goals that he has scored and the career he’s had since he was young speak for themselves,” added Laporte.

“He’s one of the best strikers I’ve ever seen but we believe in our other team mates. Sergio Ramos is also a very important player but we want to show that we can play better than them.” 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the UEFA Champions League while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection.

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the UEFA Champions League while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection. Man City have dominated English football in the last decade and more so after Pep Guardiola took the charge as manager of the club. However, they finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League this season and are yet to add the Champions League to their trophy cabinet. “City have unfinished business in the Champions League, we have been talking about it for a long time, it’s the thing we are missing,” Laporte told Spanish newspaper AS on Thursday. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches “Last year we won four trophies in the same season but couldn’t win the Champions League, so if it’s our turn this year, perfect.” Man City have all the ingredients to do great things: Laporte Manchester City were knocked out from the quarter-finals in 2019 on away goals after VAR ruled out a last-gasp winner. In 2017, they were beaten on away goals by AS Monaco in the last 16. “I don’t know what we’ve been doing wrong as the team has been the same in the last few years. Away goals have been key. Last year Tottenham scored the same number of goals as us but eliminated us,” added Laporte. “We have all the ingredients to do great things. The team is really up for it, we don’t have to change much, we just need a little more luck. We have lacked that final spark which I’m sure we’ll find soon.” ALSO READ: Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season Man City have a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid ahead of Friday’s second-leg tie at the Etihad Stadium and will be without ace striker Sergio Aguero. Whereas, the Spanish outfit will be missing skipper Sergio Ramos, who was sent off in the first-leg. “Everyone knows Aguero, he’s an important player to be missing just like theirs. All the goals that he has scored and the career he’s had since he was young speak for themselves,” added Laporte. “He’s one of the best strikers I’ve ever seen but we believe in our other team mates. Sergio Ramos is also a very important player but we want to show that we can play better than them.”

Manchester City have unfinished business in the Champions League: Aymeric Laporte

There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017.

Neymar’s journey in Paris has been struck with injuries and controversies since his 200-million-pound deal while constant speculations that the forward wants to go back to Barcelona. However, with Barcelona president Joseph Maria Bartomeu saying the situation isn’t right to spend heavily on Neymar and that may have helped to mend relationship with his current employers and fans.

"During these three years I have acquired a lot of knowledge," Neymar told PSG's official website. "I have lived through happy moments and difficult ones, especially when the injuries didn't allow me to play.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/travel-restrictions-may-force-football-clubs-to-forfeit-european-games-next-season-318377" hreflang="en">Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season</a>

"With the help of my teammates, I was able to overcome them and focus on what really matters, our performances on the field which translate into titles," he added.

Neymar further said that he wishes to PSG’s Champions League drought as they look to face Italian club Atalanta in the quarter-finals. "Our fans, the club and all fans can see the fight of our team in any game. I am in my best form since I arrived in Paris, the team is like a family," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a>

"We want to win the Champions League title. We will fight because we have never been so close."

The Final-8 of Champions League is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal. All the matches will be one-legged tie given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the UEFA Champions League while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding Neymar wanting to leave French club Paris Saint-Germain, however, the Brazilian forward isn’t departing anytime soon and has set his eyes on the UEFA Champions League while claiming he is currently in his best form since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona in 2017. Neymar’s journey in Paris has been struck with injuries and controversies since his 200-million-pound deal while constant speculations that the forward wants to go back to Barcelona. However, with Barcelona president Joseph Maria Bartomeu saying the situation isn’t right to spend heavily on Neymar and that may have helped to mend relationship with his current employers and fans. "During these three years I have acquired a lot of knowledge," Neymar told PSG's official website. "I have lived through happy moments and difficult ones, especially when the injuries didn't allow me to play. ALSO READ: Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season "With the help of my teammates, I was able to overcome them and focus on what really matters, our performances on the field which translate into titles," he added. Neymar further said that he wishes to PSG’s Champions League drought as they look to face Italian club Atalanta in the quarter-finals. "Our fans, the club and all fans can see the fight of our team in any game. I am in my best form since I arrived in Paris, the team is like a family," he said. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches "We want to win the Champions League title. We will fight because we have never been so close." The Final-8 of Champions League is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal. All the matches will be one-legged tie given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic.

'We want to win the Champions League': Neymar ready to end PSG's UCL title drought

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA.

The European football’s governing body, UEFA said that it would publish a list of known travel restrictions between countries before the draw is made. Additionally, the clubs would have to inform UEFA about any other unknown restrictions at least 48 hours before the draw and if they fail to do so then they will be handed a 3-0 defeat as a result of a forfeited match.

“If a club fails to inform the UEFA administration two days prior to the relevant draw of any restrictions other than those published by UEFA ... the club will be held responsible ... and the match will be declared to be forfeited by the club in question,” the governing body said.

UEFA further said that if a club was draw against an opponent that is not allowed to travel to the respective country then it must find a neutral venue for the home fixture. Failure to propose a suitable alternative venue would force the home club to forfeit the match.

The rules will apply for the qualifying rounds and play-offs of 2020-21 season’s European competitions.

The 2019-20 season’s remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and Europa League round of 16 second-leg matches, that were also postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic in March, are set to be played in the stadiums of home teams.

However, the ‘Final-8’ of Champions League and Europa League, will be played as a mini-tournament in Portugal and Germany respectively.

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA.

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA. The European football’s governing body, UEFA said that it would publish a list of known travel restrictions between countries before the draw is made. Additionally, the clubs would have to inform UEFA about any other unknown restrictions at least 48 hours before the draw and if they fail to do so then they will be handed a 3-0 defeat as a result of a forfeited match. “If a club fails to inform the UEFA administration two days prior to the relevant draw of any restrictions other than those published by UEFA ... the club will be held responsible ... and the match will be declared to be forfeited by the club in question,” the governing body said. UEFA further said that if a club was draw against an opponent that is not allowed to travel to the respective country then it must find a neutral venue for the home fixture. Failure to propose a suitable alternative venue would force the home club to forfeit the match. The rules will apply for the qualifying rounds and play-offs of 2020-21 season’s European competitions. The 2019-20 season’s remaining UEFA Champions League and Europa League round of 16 second-leg matches, that were also postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic in March, are set to be played in the stadiums of home teams. However, the ‘Final-8’ of Champions League and Europa League, will be played as a mini-tournament in Portugal and Germany respectively.

Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions.

In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors.

And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23.

The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21.

"I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion.

"You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready.

"At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks."

<h2>- UEFA not worried -</h2>

There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there.

UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla.

It is, in any case, now or never.

Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs.

Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon.

<h2>- Wolves' longest year -</h2>

It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday.

Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played.

Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight.

Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March.

Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy.

"Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV.

"I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy."

United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there.

Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie.

Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019.

Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season. Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions. In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors. And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23. The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21. "I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion. "You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready. "At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks." - UEFA not worried - There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there. UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla. It is, in any case, now or never. Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs. Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon. - Wolves' longest year - It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday. Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played. Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight. Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March. Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy. "Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV. "I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy." United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there. Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie. Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019. Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

Champions League ready to resume, at long last

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