Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury. &nbsp;

Son Heung-min missed out on Champions League fixture following a right-arm fracture. Mourinho said he does not expect Son to feature again this season after the South Korean fractured his right arm in Sunday's 3-2 win at Aston Villa.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-werners-penalty-gives-rb-leipzig-win-at-spurs-281703" hreflang="en">Champions League: Werner's penalty gives RB Leipzig win at Spurs</a>

Jose Mourinho was left worried after a poor performance against RB Leipzig in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16.&nbsp;

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ℹ️ Leipzig win their 1st European game against an English club...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/any6fsD1Sh">pic.twitter.com/any6fsD1Sh</a>
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"We are in a very difficult situation," said Mourinho. "What worries me is this is going to be the situation until the end of the season."

In the previous year's Champions League, Spurs beat the odds and defeated Manchester City and Ajax to reach the finals, but Leipzig's performance last night could have shattered the English club's dream to lift the European Cup.&nbsp;

Spurs captain and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris's valiant saves in the match earned him the Man of the Match award and looks like a ray of hope for Spurs for the reverse fixtures to qualify for the Quarterfinals.&nbsp;

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Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris claims <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLMOTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLMOTM</a> award! 🙌⁣ 
⁣ 
👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 <a href="https://t.co/hkqyioa4zH">pic.twitter.com/hkqyioa4zH</a>
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Tottenham faces a big challenge of winning the away fixture against RB Leipzig despite being hit with a chain of injuries, to qualify for the UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals.

(With inputs from AFP)

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury.

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspurs has lost its star players to injury. Their star striker Harry Kane has bowed out for the rest of the season due to hamstring injury. Son Heung-min missed out on Champions League fixture following a right-arm fracture. Mourinho said he does not expect Son to feature again this season after the South Korean fractured his right arm in Sunday's 3-2 win at Aston Villa. Also read: Champions League: Werner's penalty gives RB Leipzig win at Spurs Jose Mourinho was left worried after a poor performance against RB Leipzig in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. ℹ️ Leipzig win their 1st European game against an English club...#UCL pic.twitter.com/any6fsD1Sh — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × "We are in a very difficult situation," said Mourinho. "What worries me is this is going to be the situation until the end of the season." In the previous year's Champions League, Spurs beat the odds and defeated Manchester City and Ajax to reach the finals, but Leipzig's performance last night could have shattered the English club's dream to lift the European Cup. Spurs captain and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris's valiant saves in the match earned him the Man of the Match award and looks like a ray of hope for Spurs for the reverse fixtures to qualify for the Quarterfinals. Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris claims #UCLMOTM award! 🙌⁣ ⁣ 👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 pic.twitter.com/hkqyioa4zH — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × Tottenham faces a big challenge of winning the away fixture against RB Leipzig despite being hit with a chain of injuries, to qualify for the UEFA Champions League Quarterfinals. (With inputs from AFP)

Injuries frustrate Jose Mourinho, Spurs continue to struggle without Kane and Son

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;quarter-finals for the first time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeones-atletico-stun-mighty-liverpool-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281473" hreflang="en">Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16</a>

Dutch wing-back Hans Hateboer scored twice on 16 and 62 minutes, sandwiching goals from Josip Ilicic and Remo Freuler.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-champions-league-ucl-teen-sensation-haalands-brace-down-neymars-psg-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281462" hreflang="en">Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles</a>

"This is an evening that we'll remember forever," said Gasperini. "It's an amazing result, full of emotion."

It was an extraordinary night for the side from Bergamo who travelled to the San Siro with over 40,000 of their fans as their home stadium 55km away does not meet&nbsp;UEFA&nbsp;regulations.

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This guy's on 🔥 right now! 
 
Well played, Josip Iličić 👏👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Mastercard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mastercard</a> <a href="https://t.co/wdyPJdhXTz">pic.twitter.com/wdyPJdhXTz</a>
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Denis Cheryshev pulled one back for Valencia in the first leg of the last-16 tie at the San Siro, the same stadium where the Spanish side lost 2001 final to Bayern Munich on penalties.

Valencia, seventh in La Liga, had finished top of their group after away wins over Ajax and Chelsea but were missing several key players through injury and suspension.

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Two-goal Atalanta hero Hans Hateboer wins <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLMOTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLMOTM</a>! 👏👏👏 
 
👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 <a href="https://t.co/WTn8BtoMhD">pic.twitter.com/WTn8BtoMhD</a>
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"It certainly complicates things a bit, it's a pretty overwhelming result, this 4-1," said Valencia coach Albert Celades.&nbsp;

"In the end, it doesn't reflect much what we saw on the pitch."

Atalanta's run comes despite losing their opening three&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group games, before finishing second behind Manchester City.

"Three goals ahead is a nice reward," added Gasperini. "But there were a lot of dangerous situations, these are things we'll need to improve in Valencia.

"We are satisfied with this victory and above all with this advantage.

"Yesterday I would have signed to go to Valencia in the return game with a three-goal lead."

The tournament debutants dominated the first half with Mario Pasalic having their first chance on eight minutes, but Valencia goalkeeper Jaume Domenech pushed the ball over the bar at full stretch.

Hateboer opened the scoring just after the quarter of an hour, though, meeting a low Gomez cross to poke past Domenech for his first goal of the season.

Ferran Torres struck the post for Valencia on the half-hour mark, before Eliaquim Mangala missed a chance to connect with Goncalo Guedes' shot across the face of goal.

Marten de Roon and Gomez both fired over before Ilicic collected Pasalic's pass and drilled a powerful right-footed strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time.

Gasperini's side put the result on the night beyond any doubt 12 minutes after the break as Freuler curled in a magnificent third from the edge of the box.

Hateboer completed his brace five minutes later, ensuring that Atalanta's 12 goals in their first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaign have been scored by 10 different players.

Maxi Gomez had a golden chance to pull a goal back on the hour mark for the visitors but his weak effort was brilliantly saved by Pierluigi Gollini in the Atalanta goal.

Cheryshev came off the bench and immediately scored in the 66th minute, pouncing on a poor Jose Luis Palomino pass to give Valencia an away goal and a glimmer of hope to take into the second leg on March 10 at the Mestalla.

"We had opportunities and we didn't finish them," said Celades.

"The result is clear enough today, but it's not impossible (to turn around). Let's see what happens at Mestalla, let's play well in our stadium."

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time.

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini hailed a performance his club will "remember forever" after the Italian side crushed Valencia 4-1 on Wednesday to take a giant step closer to reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 Dutch wing-back Hans Hateboer scored twice on 16 and 62 minutes, sandwiching goals from Josip Ilicic and Remo Freuler. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles "This is an evening that we'll remember forever," said Gasperini. "It's an amazing result, full of emotion." It was an extraordinary night for the side from Bergamo who travelled to the San Siro with over 40,000 of their fans as their home stadium 55km away does not meet UEFA regulations. This guy's on 🔥 right now! Well played, Josip Iličić 👏👏👏#UCL | @Mastercard pic.twitter.com/wdyPJdhXTz — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × Denis Cheryshev pulled one back for Valencia in the first leg of the last-16 tie at the San Siro, the same stadium where the Spanish side lost 2001 final to Bayern Munich on penalties. Valencia, seventh in La Liga, had finished top of their group after away wins over Ajax and Chelsea but were missing several key players through injury and suspension. Two-goal Atalanta hero Hans Hateboer wins #UCLMOTM! 👏👏👏 👉 He'll be one of four players in tonight's vote where you crown Player of the Week 👑 pic.twitter.com/WTn8BtoMhD — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 19, 2020 × "It certainly complicates things a bit, it's a pretty overwhelming result, this 4-1," said Valencia coach Albert Celades. "In the end, it doesn't reflect much what we saw on the pitch." Atalanta's run comes despite losing their opening three Champions League group games, before finishing second behind Manchester City. "Three goals ahead is a nice reward," added Gasperini. "But there were a lot of dangerous situations, these are things we'll need to improve in Valencia. "We are satisfied with this victory and above all with this advantage. "Yesterday I would have signed to go to Valencia in the return game with a three-goal lead." The tournament debutants dominated the first half with Mario Pasalic having their first chance on eight minutes, but Valencia goalkeeper Jaume Domenech pushed the ball over the bar at full stretch. Hateboer opened the scoring just after the quarter of an hour, though, meeting a low Gomez cross to poke past Domenech for his first goal of the season. Ferran Torres struck the post for Valencia on the half-hour mark, before Eliaquim Mangala missed a chance to connect with Goncalo Guedes' shot across the face of goal. Marten de Roon and Gomez both fired over before Ilicic collected Pasalic's pass and drilled a powerful right-footed strike into the top corner three minutes before half-time. Gasperini's side put the result on the night beyond any doubt 12 minutes after the break as Freuler curled in a magnificent third from the edge of the box. Hateboer completed his brace five minutes later, ensuring that Atalanta's 12 goals in their first Champions League campaign have been scored by 10 different players. Maxi Gomez had a golden chance to pull a goal back on the hour mark for the visitors but his weak effort was brilliantly saved by Pierluigi Gollini in the Atalanta goal. Cheryshev came off the bench and immediately scored in the 66th minute, pouncing on a poor Jose Luis Palomino pass to give Valencia an away goal and a glimmer of hope to take into the second leg on March 10 at the Mestalla. "We had opportunities and we didn't finish them," said Celades. "The result is clear enough today, but it's not impossible (to turn around). Let's see what happens at Mestalla, let's play well in our stadium."

Champions League: Atalanta thrash Valencia on night to 'remember forever'

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision".

FIFA's choice underlines China's growing clout in football and could be a precursor to the country eventually hosting the World Cup proper.

Infantino made the announcement after a meeting in Shanghai of the FIFA Council, the decision-making unit of football's world governing body.

It will mean many of the biggest club teams,&nbsp;including eight from Europe,&nbsp;descending on China in June-July 2021.

Infantino confirmed that China, which has made football a national priority under President Xi Jinping, had been the only candidate.

"It is a historic decision for football," he said.

"It will be a competition which every person, every child and everyone who loves football is looking forward to."

The FIFA chief said in June that his new Club World Cup could generate as much as $50 billion in commercial income, although he did not state how many editions that would cover and a source told AFP the figure was "scarcely credible".

The current Club World Cup features seven teams including the holders of the UEFA Champions League. Qatar will host the competition this year and in 2020.

The Gulf state will use the two tournaments as logistical tests for stadiums and infrastructure ahead of the 2022 edition of the World Cup, FIFA's flagship international competition.

The plan for a revamped Club World Cup,&nbsp;"a childhood dream", said Infantino -- was approved at a FIFA Council meeting in Miami in March despite opposition from UEFA and the powerful European Club Association.

It will take place every four years and replaces the Confederations Cup, an international competition that acted as a test event for countries hosting a World Cup.

FIFA also will double the funding allocated for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-invest-1billion-in-womens-football-in-the-next-four-years-infantino-257832"> women's football to $1 billion</a> over the next four years after the Council rubber-stamped plans already announced by Infantino.

"The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," he said.

Since the Women's World Cup in France in the summer, "women's football has moved to the next level, we need to work on that, build on that", said Infantino.

China, the world's second-biggest economy, is becoming increasingly influential in football under Xi, a known fan of the game. He and Infantino met last week.

Xi and his communist government's stated aim is for the country of 1.4 billion to host and eventually win a World Cup.

A bid for the 2030 World Cup has long been mooted.

Mark Dreyer, a Beijing-based expert on China's sports industry, said that the country has a proven track record in staging major sporting events and views a World Cup as the ultimate aim.

But Dreyer, founder of the China Sports Insider website, added: "I worry from China's perspective whether the other competing bids (for 2030) will use this (hosting the Club World Cup) against China and say they already have something from FIFA and have rewarded the country for its financial support, so give the World Cup to someone else."

Infantino largely dodged questions that could be raised over China's human rights record as a result of the Club World Cup decision.

He was also asked by AFP whether players coming to China may have to self-censor after the US National Basketball Association was hit by a Chinese backlash over comments by a Houston Rockets team executive who expressed support for Hong Kong protesters resisting Chinese control.

"Everyone can say what they want," he said.

"As far as we are concerned, we are trying to use football as a catalyst for positive, and never for negative." 
&nbsp;

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision".

China will host the inaugural edition of the expanded 24-team Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Thursday, hailing it as a "historic decision". FIFA's choice underlines China's growing clout in football and could be a precursor to the country eventually hosting the World Cup proper. Infantino made the announcement after a meeting in Shanghai of the FIFA Council, the decision-making unit of football's world governing body. It will mean many of the biggest club teams, including eight from Europe, descending on China in June-July 2021. Infantino confirmed that China, which has made football a national priority under President Xi Jinping, had been the only candidate. "It is a historic decision for football," he said. "It will be a competition which every person, every child and everyone who loves football is looking forward to." The FIFA chief said in June that his new Club World Cup could generate as much as $50 billion in commercial income, although he did not state how many editions that would cover and a source told AFP the figure was "scarcely credible". The current Club World Cup features seven teams including the holders of the UEFA Champions League. Qatar will host the competition this year and in 2020. The Gulf state will use the two tournaments as logistical tests for stadiums and infrastructure ahead of the 2022 edition of the World Cup, FIFA's flagship international competition. The plan for a revamped Club World Cup, "a childhood dream", said Infantino -- was approved at a FIFA Council meeting in Miami in March despite opposition from UEFA and the powerful European Club Association. It will take place every four years and replaces the Confederations Cup, an international competition that acted as a test event for countries hosting a World Cup. FIFA also will double the funding allocated for women's football to $1 billion over the next four years after the Council rubber-stamped plans already announced by Infantino. "The Council decided to put 500 million in addition to the 500 million already budgeted," he said. Since the Women's World Cup in France in the summer, "women's football has moved to the next level, we need to work on that, build on that", said Infantino. China, the world's second-biggest economy, is becoming increasingly influential in football under Xi, a known fan of the game. He and Infantino met last week. Xi and his communist government's stated aim is for the country of 1.4 billion to host and eventually win a World Cup. A bid for the 2030 World Cup has long been mooted. Mark Dreyer, a Beijing-based expert on China's sports industry, said that the country has a proven track record in staging major sporting events and views a World Cup as the ultimate aim. But Dreyer, founder of the China Sports Insider website, added: "I worry from China's perspective whether the other competing bids (for 2030) will use this (hosting the Club World Cup) against China and say they already have something from FIFA and have rewarded the country for its financial support, so give the World Cup to someone else." Infantino largely dodged questions that could be raised over China's human rights record as a result of the Club World Cup decision. He was also asked by AFP whether players coming to China may have to self-censor after the US National Basketball Association was hit by a Chinese backlash over comments by a Houston Rockets team executive who expressed support for Hong Kong protesters resisting Chinese control. "Everyone can say what they want," he said. "As far as we are concerned, we are trying to use football as a catalyst for positive, and never for negative."

Football: China to host expanded Club World Cup in 2021

Holders Liverpool take on Napoli in Group E, Lionel Messi & Barcelona travel to Borussia Dortmund in the 'Group of Death' and Frank Lampard's Chelsea takes on Valencia in a tricky group also containing Ajax and Lille. Former Welsh footballer and coach Matt Holland sets up the opening night of the new UEFA Champions League season.

Matt Holland previews new champions league season

Germany's Bayern Munich want to kick off their Champions League campaign against Red Star Belgrade with a win on Wednesday as they set their sights on at least the quarter-finals, coach Niko Kovac said on Tuesday.

The Bavarians, who have won the last seven league titles in Germany, last lifted Europe's top club trophy in 2013.

Last season they suffered an unusually early exit, eliminated by eventual winners Liverpool in the Round of 16.

"We have a new season, and we have new luck so our first aim is to go past the group stage and then as a second aim to go further than last season," Kovac told a news conference.

Bayern have not enjoyed a dominant start to their season, losing the German Super Cup to Borussia Dortmund and lying in fourth place in the Bundesliga after four matches, two points off the top.

Kovac, in his second season at Bayern, said everyone was "100 per cent fit and ready" apart from fullback David Alaba, who was injured during warmup ahead of their 1-1 draw at RB Leipzig on Saturday and is expected to be out for three weeks.

"We have analysed Red Star. We know that at home in Belgrade they are a different team with different potential with such amazing crowd support."

Group B also includes Olympiakos and Tottenham Hotspur.

"Tomorrow we have the task of playing our game. In Leipzig we showed we can do it," he said.

Bayern played a scintillating first half against Leipzig, taking the lead and having 73 per cent possession and a bagful of scoring chances.

"If we bring the same form tomorrow then we can win it," Kovac said.

In-form keeper Manuel Neuer has set his sights even higher that the quarter-finals.

"The Champions League is a long and rocky road. We experienced last season how bitter it is, and that was way too early an exit for us," Germany keeper Neuer said.

"The motivation and drive in the team is high. We want to improve and go further than last season. We want at least to reach the semi-finals."

Germany's Bayern Munich want to kick off their Champions League campaign against Red Star Belgrade with a win on Wednesday as they set their sights on at least the quarter-finals, coach Niko Kovac said on Tuesday.

Germany's Bayern Munich want to kick off their Champions League campaign against Red Star Belgrade with a win on Wednesday as they set their sights on at least the quarter-finals, coach Niko Kovac said on Tuesday. The Bavarians, who have won the last seven league titles in Germany, last lifted Europe's top club trophy in 2013. Last season they suffered an unusually early exit, eliminated by eventual winners Liverpool in the Round of 16. "We have a new season, and we have new luck so our first aim is to go past the group stage and then as a second aim to go further than last season," Kovac told a news conference. Bayern have not enjoyed a dominant start to their season, losing the German Super Cup to Borussia Dortmund and lying in fourth place in the Bundesliga after four matches, two points off the top. Kovac, in his second season at Bayern, said everyone was "100 per cent fit and ready" apart from fullback David Alaba, who was injured during warmup ahead of their 1-1 draw at RB Leipzig on Saturday and is expected to be out for three weeks. "We have analysed Red Star. We know that at home in Belgrade they are a different team with different potential with such amazing crowd support." Group B also includes Olympiakos and Tottenham Hotspur. "Tomorrow we have the task of playing our game. In Leipzig we showed we can do it," he said. Bayern played a scintillating first half against Leipzig, taking the lead and having 73 per cent possession and a bagful of scoring chances. "If we bring the same form tomorrow then we can win it," Kovac said. In-form keeper Manuel Neuer has set his sights even higher that the quarter-finals. "The Champions League is a long and rocky road. We experienced last season how bitter it is, and that was way too early an exit for us," Germany keeper Neuer said. "The motivation and drive in the team is high. We want to improve and go further than last season. We want at least to reach the semi-finals."

Bayern eye at least last eight in Champions League

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp declared Manchester City as the best team in the world even though the Premier League champions have yet to win Europe's premier club competition.

As his team prepared to begin their Champions League title defence by taking on Napoli in a Group E encounter on Tuesday, the German dismissed suggestions that his side should be viewed as favourites to lift the trophy again.

"We can't be the best team in Europe because Man City are the best team in the world, that's the same planet, I think," joked Klopp at a news conference on Monday.

"We don't feel the burden of being champions, (we won it) long ago. I have no clue (if teams will play differently against us). I've never won the Champions League before, I hope we are prepared for that."

Liverpool finished second in the Premier League last season behind Pep Guardiola's City but are five points clear of their title rivals after five games this season.

Midfielder Jordan Henderson also said Liverpool are not the front-runners to win the Champions League.

"It's too early to say we're favourites, we've started well but we can still get better," said the England international.

"We're always hungry for more and we want to improve. Last season is last season but we can still improve."

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp declared Manchester City as the best team in the world even though the Premier League champions have yet to win Europe's premier club competition.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp declared Manchester City as the best team in the world even though the Premier League champions have yet to win Europe's premier club competition. As his team prepared to begin their Champions League title defence by taking on Napoli in a Group E encounter on Tuesday, the German dismissed suggestions that his side should be viewed as favourites to lift the trophy again. "We can't be the best team in Europe because Man City are the best team in the world, that's the same planet, I think," joked Klopp at a news conference on Monday. "We don't feel the burden of being champions, (we won it) long ago. I have no clue (if teams will play differently against us). I've never won the Champions League before, I hope we are prepared for that." Liverpool finished second in the Premier League last season behind Pep Guardiola's City but are five points clear of their title rivals after five games this season. Midfielder Jordan Henderson also said Liverpool are not the front-runners to win the Champions League. "It's too early to say we're favourites, we've started well but we can still get better," said the England international. "We're always hungry for more and we want to improve. Last season is last season but we can still improve."

Manchester City are the best team in the world, says Klopp

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi will be part of the squad to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday as he prepares to make his comeback from injury.

The Argentina striker has not played since sustaining a calf injury in pre-season but Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde named him in the group which was on its way to Germany on Monday.

Messi trained on Sunday and Monday after missing the first three La Liga matches of the season.

Striker Ansu Fati, 16, has also been included in the squad and may make his Champions League debut after two goals in three appearances.

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi will be part of the squad to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday as he prepares to make his comeback from injury.

Barcelona captain Lionel Messi will be part of the squad to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday as he prepares to make his comeback from injury. The Argentina striker has not played since sustaining a calf injury in pre-season but Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde named him in the group which was on its way to Germany on Monday. Messi trained on Sunday and Monday after missing the first three La Liga matches of the season. Striker Ansu Fati, 16, has also been included in the squad and may make his Champions League debut after two goals in three appearances.

Lionel Messi included in Barcelona squad to face Dortmund

A former bench-warmer at Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund sharpshooter Paco Alcacer is hoping to hurt his former club when the two teams meet in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Alcacer, 26, joined Dortmund in 2018 after struggling to hold down a place in the first team in two seasons at star-studded Barcelona.

He has flourished in the Bundesliga, bringing a killer instinct to Dortmund's young attack and regaining his place in the Spanish national team.

The striker now faces Barcelona in the middle of a purple patch for club and country, having scored 10 goals in his last eight matches.

His opener in a 4-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen last Saturday means he has scored in every game for Dortmund so far this term.

He also picked up three goals for Spain in Euro 2020 qualification wins over Romania and the Faroe Islands last week.

Alcacer's electric form is reminiscent of his explosive start to life at Dortmund as a loanee at the beginning of last season, when he fired in a record-breaking seven goals in his first four games.

That run prompted Dortmund to shell out 23 million euros to sign him on a permanent deal, and marked a turning point in Alcacer's career.

"It is a liberation to be playing, getting time on the pitch and enjoying my job," said the Spaniard at the time.

He had just arrived from two frustrating years at Barcelona, in which he was kept out of the team by an iconic attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar.&nbsp;

After a move from boyhood club Valencia in 2016, he made just 23 starts for the Catalan giants, and played a full 90 minutes in just 10 matches.

'A special game' 

Yet as he prepares to meet his former team mates in Dortmund on Tuesday, Alcacer has insisted he has "no regrets" about his time in the Catalan capital.

"It will be a special game. It will be a joy to play against my former team, and it makes me want to play well," he told Barcelona newspaper Sport last week.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old said that despite his struggles, he learned a lot at the Camp Nou.

"When you play for Barca, you play high up the pitch and there is very little space. Before, I was quite slow in my decision-making, but now I can make quick decisions in tight spaces. I learned that at Barcelona."

That sharpness has certainly shown this season, as all five of Alcacer's Bundesliga goals so far have been first-time finishes.&nbsp;

While he insists there is no bad blood between him and Barcelona, the Spaniard has not ruled out celebrating if he scores against his former club on Tuesday.

"A lot of people treated me very well at Barcelona. I don't know what I will do (if I score). The joy will be huge," he told Sport.

If he does celebrate, it will be in trademark fashion, with his eyes and index fingers raised to the heavens.

The celebration is a tribute to Alcacer's father, who died suddenly of a heart attack shortly after watching his son's professional debut for Valencia in 2011.&nbsp;

"I know it would have made him happy to continue to watch me play," Alcacer told Westfaelischer Anzeiger newspaper last year.&nbsp;

The striker is determined to keep his career on an upward curve, and is eyeing silverware with Dortmund after narrowly missing out on the Bundesliga title last year.

"It is not enough to come second," he told Sky in August.

No doubt he intends to come out on top this Tuesday, and show Messi, Suarez and co. what they are missing.&nbsp;

A former bench-warmer at Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund sharpshooter Paco Alcacer is hoping to hurt his former club when the two teams meet in the Champions League on Tuesday.

A former bench-warmer at Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund sharpshooter Paco Alcacer is hoping to hurt his former club when the two teams meet in the Champions League on Tuesday. Alcacer, 26, joined Dortmund in 2018 after struggling to hold down a place in the first team in two seasons at star-studded Barcelona. He has flourished in the Bundesliga, bringing a killer instinct to Dortmund's young attack and regaining his place in the Spanish national team. The striker now faces Barcelona in the middle of a purple patch for club and country, having scored 10 goals in his last eight matches. His opener in a 4-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen last Saturday means he has scored in every game for Dortmund so far this term. He also picked up three goals for Spain in Euro 2020 qualification wins over Romania and the Faroe Islands last week. Alcacer's electric form is reminiscent of his explosive start to life at Dortmund as a loanee at the beginning of last season, when he fired in a record-breaking seven goals in his first four games. That run prompted Dortmund to shell out 23 million euros to sign him on a permanent deal, and marked a turning point in Alcacer's career. "It is a liberation to be playing, getting time on the pitch and enjoying my job," said the Spaniard at the time. He had just arrived from two frustrating years at Barcelona, in which he was kept out of the team by an iconic attacking trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar. After a move from boyhood club Valencia in 2016, he made just 23 starts for the Catalan giants, and played a full 90 minutes in just 10 matches. 'A special game' Yet as he prepares to meet his former team mates in Dortmund on Tuesday, Alcacer has insisted he has "no regrets" about his time in the Catalan capital. "It will be a special game. It will be a joy to play against my former team, and it makes me want to play well," he told Barcelona newspaper Sport last week. The 26-year-old said that despite his struggles, he learned a lot at the Camp Nou. "When you play for Barca, you play high up the pitch and there is very little space. Before, I was quite slow in my decision-making, but now I can make quick decisions in tight spaces. I learned that at Barcelona." That sharpness has certainly shown this season, as all five of Alcacer's Bundesliga goals so far have been first-time finishes. While he insists there is no bad blood between him and Barcelona, the Spaniard has not ruled out celebrating if he scores against his former club on Tuesday. "A lot of people treated me very well at Barcelona. I don't know what I will do (if I score). The joy will be huge," he told Sport. If he does celebrate, it will be in trademark fashion, with his eyes and index fingers raised to the heavens. The celebration is a tribute to Alcacer's father, who died suddenly of a heart attack shortly after watching his son's professional debut for Valencia in 2011. "I know it would have made him happy to continue to watch me play," Alcacer told Westfaelischer Anzeiger newspaper last year. The striker is determined to keep his career on an upward curve, and is eyeing silverware with Dortmund after narrowly missing out on the Bundesliga title last year. "It is not enough to come second," he told Sky in August. No doubt he intends to come out on top this Tuesday, and show Messi, Suarez and co. what they are missing.

Paco Alcacer in electric form ahead of clash with former club Barcelona

While the battle for the Champions League of the future is fought behind the scenes, this week the continent's biggest clubs begin their latest quest for European glory with holders Liverpool dreaming of reaching another final in Istanbul.

The current 32-team group stage format leading to a knockout round of 16 was introduced in 2003. Since then, an ever smaller group of clubs has competed to win the trophy, with the last 15 champions coming from Spain, England, Germany or Italy.

There is a consensus that it is time for a change, and the European Club Association, chaired by Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli, has been busy working with UEFA on plans to completely revamp the competition from 2024.

Moves towards even more of a closed shop for the elite have stalled because of dissent from some clubs and from domestic leagues, but change is coming.

"We are confident of finding a good format for after 2024 that includes of course the big clubs, mid-size countries and also a possibility for, let's say, the smaller countries but also with history to find their place in the European football scene," said Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar last week.

Of course Ajax have extra determination to ensure their voice is heard. The Dutch champions enchanted Europe on their run to the semi-finals last season but entered this season's tournament in the third qualifying round. There was no special treatment for them.

Meanwhile, for the likes of Agnelli's Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, the Champions League has become the be all and end all due to a lack of competition domestically.

More English domination?

It is easy to see why they might like more games against the best teams from around Europe, along with more money.

For now, the Champions League winners stand to take home around 75 million euros ($83 million; £66.6 million). On top of that will be added considerable sums from television along with money depending on each team's UEFA ranking.

This rewards past success, guaranteeing the top-ranked team, Real Madrid, a further 35.46 million euros. For holders Liverpool that added figure is nearer 27 million euros.

The financial strength of the Premier League's top clubs means they are less eager for change to the Champions League, and it also helps explain why all four European finalists last season were English.

After beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in Madrid to lift their sixth European Cup, can Liverpool reach a third straight final? This season's showpiece will be played in Istanbul, scene of their remarkable triumph in 2005.

"We have the same chance like everyone else, but that is all, and I don't see us, the English teams, dominating. I really think a lot of teams have a good chance," insisted Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool begin their campaign in Italy against Napoli in one of the standout early ties. There are plenty of games to whet the appetite, although the genuine, meaningful drama will not arrive until the knockout rounds.

The latter stages have arguably become more exciting than ever, epitomised by last season's semi-finals and sensational comebacks by Liverpool and Spurs against Barcelona and Ajax.&nbsp;

There have been more than three goals per game on average in the knockout rounds in each of the last three seasons.

But while Ajax's performance has shown the way forward for clubs from smaller leagues, predicting who reaches the last 16 this season may not prove too challenging.

New era 

We may be heading into a new era in another sense, as the two players who have defined the Champions League in the last decade edge towards their twilight years.

Either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo has been the top scorer in the competition in each of the last 12 years.

Messi, now 32, has scored 110 goals and won the trophy three times in that period, while Ronaldo, soon to be 35, has 123 goals in that time and five winner's medals.

The Argentine is in a hurry for more. As he said ominously to Barca fans in an interview with Catalan daily Sport last week: "I have no intention of going anywhere, but I want to keep on competing and winning."

Will this be his year again, or will a younger face like Kylian Mbappe or Joao Felix leave their mark?

The Champions League may be ripe for a revamp, but it remains the pinnacle in club football.

While the battle for the Champions League of the future is fought behind the scenes, this week the continent's biggest clubs begin their latest quest for European glory with holders Liverpool dreaming of reaching another final in Istanbul.

While the battle for the Champions League of the future is fought behind the scenes, this week the continent's biggest clubs begin their latest quest for European glory with holders Liverpool dreaming of reaching another final in Istanbul. The current 32-team group stage format leading to a knockout round of 16 was introduced in 2003. Since then, an ever smaller group of clubs has competed to win the trophy, with the last 15 champions coming from Spain, England, Germany or Italy. There is a consensus that it is time for a change, and the European Club Association, chaired by Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli, has been busy working with UEFA on plans to completely revamp the competition from 2024. Moves towards even more of a closed shop for the elite have stalled because of dissent from some clubs and from domestic leagues, but change is coming. "We are confident of finding a good format for after 2024 that includes of course the big clubs, mid-size countries and also a possibility for, let's say, the smaller countries but also with history to find their place in the European football scene," said Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar last week. Of course Ajax have extra determination to ensure their voice is heard. The Dutch champions enchanted Europe on their run to the semi-finals last season but entered this season's tournament in the third qualifying round. There was no special treatment for them. Meanwhile, for the likes of Agnelli's Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, the Champions League has become the be all and end all due to a lack of competition domestically. More English domination? It is easy to see why they might like more games against the best teams from around Europe, along with more money. For now, the Champions League winners stand to take home around 75 million euros ($83 million; £66.6 million). On top of that will be added considerable sums from television along with money depending on each team's UEFA ranking. This rewards past success, guaranteeing the top-ranked team, Real Madrid, a further 35.46 million euros. For holders Liverpool that added figure is nearer 27 million euros. The financial strength of the Premier League's top clubs means they are less eager for change to the Champions League, and it also helps explain why all four European finalists last season were English. After beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in Madrid to lift their sixth European Cup, can Liverpool reach a third straight final? This season's showpiece will be played in Istanbul, scene of their remarkable triumph in 2005. "We have the same chance like everyone else, but that is all, and I don't see us, the English teams, dominating. I really think a lot of teams have a good chance," insisted Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool begin their campaign in Italy against Napoli in one of the standout early ties. There are plenty of games to whet the appetite, although the genuine, meaningful drama will not arrive until the knockout rounds. The latter stages have arguably become more exciting than ever, epitomised by last season's semi-finals and sensational comebacks by Liverpool and Spurs against Barcelona and Ajax. There have been more than three goals per game on average in the knockout rounds in each of the last three seasons. But while Ajax's performance has shown the way forward for clubs from smaller leagues, predicting who reaches the last 16 this season may not prove too challenging. New era We may be heading into a new era in another sense, as the two players who have defined the Champions League in the last decade edge towards their twilight years. Either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo has been the top scorer in the competition in each of the last 12 years. Messi, now 32, has scored 110 goals and won the trophy three times in that period, while Ronaldo, soon to be 35, has 123 goals in that time and five winner's medals. The Argentine is in a hurry for more. As he said ominously to Barca fans in an interview with Catalan daily Sport last week: "I have no intention of going anywhere, but I want to keep on competing and winning." Will this be his year again, or will a younger face like Kylian Mbappe or Joao Felix leave their mark? The Champions League may be ripe for a revamp, but it remains the pinnacle in club football.

Amid talk of revamp, Europe's giants begin Champions League assault

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

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

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

Mexican forward Hirving Lozano completes Napoli move

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Manchester+City">Manchester City</a> have launched a legal bid to stop UEFA banning them from the 2020-2021 Champions League, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday.

Abu Dhabi-owned City, who retained the Premier League title this season, are in danger of being kicked out of future editions of the Champions League after UEFA looked into reported Financial Fair Play breaches.

The investigation was triggered by European football's governing body in March after claims City had hidden revenue from overvalued commercial deals in order to meet the UEFA spending guidelines.

According to the Lausanne-based CAS the Premier League champions have now filed an appeal with the court ahead of an imminent sentencing decision from UEFA's Club Financial Control Body's (CFCB) adjudicatory chamber.

"The appeal is filed against decisions taken by the Investigatory Chamber (IC) of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) regarding MCFC's alleged non-compliance with UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations," CAS said in a statement.

CAS said it was involved in establishing a procedural calendar and that it was unable as yet to say when the matter would be settled.

It is believed the committee is unlikely to rule against the conclusions of chief investigator Yves Leterme, who signed over his probe into alleged payments deception two weeks ago and is thought to have recommended that City be banned from the Champions League.

The decision would leave Pep Guardiola's side out of Europe's elite club competition, potentially for the 2020-21 campaign.

But City are believed to be challenging UEFA's right to send the case to their adjudicatory chamber and its competence to judge on the club at all.

City did not respond to a request for comment, but the club have previously said the referral to the judicial branch "ignores a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence provided by Manchester City".

City, who added the FA Cup and League Cup this season for an unprecedented domestic treble, also said the allegations of wrongdoing were "entirely false" and there is "comprehensive proof" otherwise.

Manchester City have launched a legal bid to stop UEFA banning them from the 2020-2021 Champions League, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday.

Manchester City have launched a legal bid to stop UEFA banning them from the 2020-2021 Champions League, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Monday. Abu Dhabi-owned City, who retained the Premier League title this season, are in danger of being kicked out of future editions of the Champions League after UEFA looked into reported Financial Fair Play breaches. The investigation was triggered by European football's governing body in March after claims City had hidden revenue from overvalued commercial deals in order to meet the UEFA spending guidelines. According to the Lausanne-based CAS the Premier League champions have now filed an appeal with the court ahead of an imminent sentencing decision from UEFA's Club Financial Control Body's (CFCB) adjudicatory chamber. "The appeal is filed against decisions taken by the Investigatory Chamber (IC) of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) regarding MCFC's alleged non-compliance with UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations," CAS said in a statement. CAS said it was involved in establishing a procedural calendar and that it was unable as yet to say when the matter would be settled. It is believed the committee is unlikely to rule against the conclusions of chief investigator Yves Leterme, who signed over his probe into alleged payments deception two weeks ago and is thought to have recommended that City be banned from the Champions League. The decision would leave Pep Guardiola's side out of Europe's elite club competition, potentially for the 2020-21 campaign. But City are believed to be challenging UEFA's right to send the case to their adjudicatory chamber and its competence to judge on the club at all. City did not respond to a request for comment, but the club have previously said the referral to the judicial branch "ignores a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence provided by Manchester City". City, who added the FA Cup and League Cup this season for an unprecedented domestic treble, also said the allegations of wrongdoing were "entirely false" and there is "comprehensive proof" otherwise.

Manchester City appeal against possible Champions League ban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/silverware-is-priority-for-liverpool-says-alexander-arnold-ahead-of-champions-league-final-against-tottenham-223223">Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool</a> are aiming to make up for several recent near misses while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mauricio-pochettino-believes-fortune-has-favoured-tottenham-to-reach-champions-league-final-223317">Mauricio Pochettino</a>'s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hugo-lloris-eyes-winning-his-second-final-in-a-year-as-tottenham-face-liverpool-in-champions-league-final-223327">Tottenham</a> can dream of winning the Champions League for the first time as the two English clubs meet in Saturday's final in Madrid.

The Spanish capital is being taken over by a sea of English supporters on a searingly hot weekend ahead of the 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) kickoff in the Metropolitano Stadium.

For Liverpool, it is a chance to become European champions for a sixth time and end the season on the highest of highs after they agonisingly missed out to Manchester City in the Premier League title race, despite losing only once all season.

A year ago Liverpool lost the Champions League final 3-1 to Real Madrid in Kiev after Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah was forced to go off injured and in tears.

Underdogs then, they are the clear favourites now against opponents appearing in their first final in this competition since it started life as the European&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;in the 1950s.&nbsp;

Liverpool defender Andy Robertson said Liverpool were not taking anything for granted against Spurs.

"Personally, the games I've played against them in the Premier League have been the toughest games we've played," the Scottish left-back said.

In terms of European pedigree, Liverpool are clearly ahead as they prepare for a ninth appearance in the final of this competition. Their last win was the memorable come-from-behind victory over AC Milan in Istanbul in 2005.

In contrast, it is 35 years since Spurs were in any European final, so just being here is a huge achievement -- and it comes only weeks after they moved into a sparkling new stadium.

"We are in football because we want to win but I think to get to the final in the Champions League, that journey is the most difficult thing," said Pochettino.

Kane to start?

Tottenham could bring back top scorer Harry Kane after an ankle injury.

Form is against the London club as Liverpool have already beaten Spurs twice this season and have lost just one of their last 14 meetings.&nbsp;

Klopp, however, has lost his last six finals as a coach.

The German put a positive spin on that record.

"I am probably at the moment a&nbsp;world-record holder, in the last seven years at least, in winning semi-finals," Klopp said. "But if I wrote a book about that probably nobody would buy it."

Liverpool reached the Madrid final after their incredible comeback to beat Barcelona in the semi-finals, a 4-0 win at Anfield overturning a 3-0 first-leg deficit as Lionel Messi's side crumbled.

Salah missed that second leg but is fit now, while Klopp confirmed Brazilian livewire Roberto Firmino is ready after a groin injury.

Tottenham were 3-0 down on aggregate at half-time in the second leg of their tie against Ajax, yet went through on away goals thanks to Lucas Moura's dramatic hat-trick.

That ensured an English sweep in the European finals this season, but while UEFA's decision to play the Europa League showpiece between Chelsea and Arsenal in distant Baku on Wednesday was heavily criticised, nobody doubts Madrid is a fitting venue.

Real's grand Santiago Bernabeu stadium has staged four finals in the past in this competition, as well as the final of a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;and a European Championship. This time the venue is Atletico Madrid's new 68,000-seat home.

But there has been controversy over the ticket allocation with fans of both teams sharing just 33,226 tickets.

Tickets have been changing hands for as much as £25,000 ($31,600, 28,200 euros), according to the London Evening Standard.

Security challenge

The lack of tickets mean as many as 50,000 English fans will watch outside the ground, and organisers have set up two separate fan zones in the centre of Madrid.

With Spain still haunted by the image of the old-school English football hooligan, police are worried.

Francisco Pardo, director general of Spain's National Police, promised "probably the biggest deployment to guarantee security which we will carry out at a sporting event".

Whoever wins, the celebrations will be wild.&nbsp;

Victory for Liverpool would put them ahead of Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the list of the competition's most successful clubs.

Spurs reached the final despite not outscoring their opponents in the quarter-finals or semi-finals -- a statistical quirk also achieved by PSV Eindhoven when they won the trophy in 1988.

If they can upset the odds, theirs will be the first new name on the&nbsp;cup&nbsp;since Chelsea in 2012.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are aiming to make up for several recent near misses while Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham can dream of winning the Champions League for the first time as the two English clubs meet in Saturday's final in Madrid.

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool are aiming to make up for several recent near misses while Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham can dream of winning the Champions League for the first time as the two English clubs meet in Saturday's final in Madrid. The Spanish capital is being taken over by a sea of English supporters on a searingly hot weekend ahead of the 9:00 pm (1900 GMT) kickoff in the Metropolitano Stadium. For Liverpool, it is a chance to become European champions for a sixth time and end the season on the highest of highs after they agonisingly missed out to Manchester City in the Premier League title race, despite losing only once all season. A year ago Liverpool lost the Champions League final 3-1 to Real Madrid in Kiev after Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah was forced to go off injured and in tears. Underdogs then, they are the clear favourites now against opponents appearing in their first final in this competition since it started life as the European Cup in the 1950s. Liverpool defender Andy Robertson said Liverpool were not taking anything for granted against Spurs. "Personally, the games I've played against them in the Premier League have been the toughest games we've played," the Scottish left-back said. In terms of European pedigree, Liverpool are clearly ahead as they prepare for a ninth appearance in the final of this competition. Their last win was the memorable come-from-behind victory over AC Milan in Istanbul in 2005. In contrast, it is 35 years since Spurs were in any European final, so just being here is a huge achievement -- and it comes only weeks after they moved into a sparkling new stadium. "We are in football because we want to win but I think to get to the final in the Champions League, that journey is the most difficult thing," said Pochettino. Kane to start? Tottenham could bring back top scorer Harry Kane after an ankle injury. Form is against the London club as Liverpool have already beaten Spurs twice this season and have lost just one of their last 14 meetings. Klopp, however, has lost his last six finals as a coach. The German put a positive spin on that record. "I am probably at the moment a world-record holder, in the last seven years at least, in winning semi-finals," Klopp said. "But if I wrote a book about that probably nobody would buy it." Liverpool reached the Madrid final after their incredible comeback to beat Barcelona in the semi-finals, a 4-0 win at Anfield overturning a 3-0 first-leg deficit as Lionel Messi's side crumbled. Salah missed that second leg but is fit now, while Klopp confirmed Brazilian livewire Roberto Firmino is ready after a groin injury. Tottenham were 3-0 down on aggregate at half-time in the second leg of their tie against Ajax, yet went through on away goals thanks to Lucas Moura's dramatic hat-trick. That ensured an English sweep in the European finals this season, but while UEFA's decision to play the Europa League showpiece between Chelsea and Arsenal in distant Baku on Wednesday was heavily criticised, nobody doubts Madrid is a fitting venue. Real's grand Santiago Bernabeu stadium has staged four finals in the past in this competition, as well as the final of a World Cup and a European Championship. This time the venue is Atletico Madrid's new 68,000-seat home. But there has been controversy over the ticket allocation with fans of both teams sharing just 33,226 tickets. Tickets have been changing hands for as much as £25,000 ($31,600, 28,200 euros), according to the London Evening Standard. Security challenge The lack of tickets mean as many as 50,000 English fans will watch outside the ground, and organisers have set up two separate fan zones in the centre of Madrid. With Spain still haunted by the image of the old-school English football hooligan, police are worried. Francisco Pardo, director general of Spain's National Police, promised "probably the biggest deployment to guarantee security which we will carry out at a sporting event". Whoever wins, the celebrations will be wild. Victory for Liverpool would put them ahead of Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the list of the competition's most successful clubs. Spurs reached the final despite not outscoring their opponents in the quarter-finals or semi-finals -- a statistical quirk also achieved by PSV Eindhoven when they won the trophy in 1988. If they can upset the odds, theirs will be the first new name on the cup since Chelsea in 2012.

Champions League: Liverpool and Tottenham set for the final showdown

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mohamed+Salah">Mohamed Salah</a> is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago.

Salah injured his shoulder in a coming together with Real defender Sergio Ramos during last year's final in Kiev and was forced to leave the field with half an hour played.

Liverpool went on to lose 3-1 and their Egyptian forward is fired up by the thought of scoring the winner this time around and helping his team claim their sixth European Cup.

"I hope I can play the full game this time. I'm very excited," Salah told reporters on Tuesday. "I hope we can right what happened last season, get a good result and win the competition.

"(Scoring the winner is) not just dream. I hope it becomes a reality and I score in the final."

Salah also said Liverpool had learnt their lessons from last year's disappointment and that the team was better off for the experience.

"This is our second final in a row," he added. "We lost the first but everything feels better this time around and we have more experience than last time.

"I hope we can win it. It will be tough. This is a final and no opponent would have been easy... It is harder because (Tottenham) is an English side."

Mohamed Salah is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago.

Mohamed Salah is keen to make a decisive contribution in Saturday's Champions League final against Tottenham Hotspur and help lay to rest the demons of Liverpool's nightmare defeat by Real Madrid a year ago. Salah injured his shoulder in a coming together with Real defender Sergio Ramos during last year's final in Kiev and was forced to leave the field with half an hour played. Liverpool went on to lose 3-1 and their Egyptian forward is fired up by the thought of scoring the winner this time around and helping his team claim their sixth European Cup. "I hope I can play the full game this time. I'm very excited," Salah told reporters on Tuesday. "I hope we can right what happened last season, get a good result and win the competition. "(Scoring the winner is) not just dream. I hope it becomes a reality and I score in the final." Salah also said Liverpool had learnt their lessons from last year's disappointment and that the team was better off for the experience. "This is our second final in a row," he added. "We lost the first but everything feels better this time around and we have more experience than last time. "I hope we can win it. It will be tough. This is a final and no opponent would have been easy... It is harder because (Tottenham) is an English side."

Liverpool's Salah seeks Champions League final redemption

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/losing-champions-league-final-would-be-painful-says-tottenhams-son-heung-min-218869">Tottenham Hotspur</a> in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid.

Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said Klopp.

"Bobby was part of training last week then we took him out and will be in training from tomorrow again. From what we saw so far he looked good. He will be fine, I'm sure," the German told a news conference on Tuesday.

Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said Firmino was crucial to Liverpool's way of playing.

"Really important, he sets the pressing from the front. We try to follow him. When we have the ball he is like an extra midfielder so we try and follow him in both ways. He is also an extra defender," Wijnaldum said.

The 28-year-old stepped into the Firmino role during the second half of Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win over Barcelona, scoring twice. While he would be willing to take on that duty again, he said he was more comfortable in his usual central midfield position.

"I prefer to play in the midfield but if the manager needs me I will play anywhere. That is a really difficult position to play. I think Divock (Origi) or (Daniel) Sturridge is a better option but if the manager needs me...," he said.

Guinea midfielder Naby Keita is recovering well from his thigh injury but Klopp said he had no chance to be involved.

Liverpool return to the final following their defeat to Real Madrid in last year's showpiece in Kiev. Klopp said they were fired up for the occasion but played down talk of them having more big-game experience than Spurs.

"We are all very excited about having a chance again. We are probably the more experienced, but it doesn't really make a difference," he said.

"It's about using the things that brought you to the final. So far we have controlled our emotions in a really good way."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid. Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said Klopp. "Bobby was part of training last week then we took him out and will be in training from tomorrow again. From what we saw so far he looked good. He will be fine, I'm sure," the German told a news conference on Tuesday. Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said Firmino was crucial to Liverpool's way of playing. "Really important, he sets the pressing from the front. We try to follow him. When we have the ball he is like an extra midfielder so we try and follow him in both ways. He is also an extra defender," Wijnaldum said. The 28-year-old stepped into the Firmino role during the second half of Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win over Barcelona, scoring twice. While he would be willing to take on that duty again, he said he was more comfortable in his usual central midfield position. "I prefer to play in the midfield but if the manager needs me I will play anywhere. That is a really difficult position to play. I think Divock (Origi) or (Daniel) Sturridge is a better option but if the manager needs me...," he said. Guinea midfielder Naby Keita is recovering well from his thigh injury but Klopp said he had no chance to be involved. Liverpool return to the final following their defeat to Real Madrid in last year's showpiece in Kiev. Klopp said they were fired up for the occasion but played down talk of them having more big-game experience than Spurs. "We are all very excited about having a chance again. We are probably the more experienced, but it doesn't really make a difference," he said. "It's about using the things that brought you to the final. So far we have controlled our emotions in a really good way."

Roberto Firmino 'will be fine' for final says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane has entered the final stages of recovery from an ankle injury and manager Mauricio Pochettino is optimistic the striker will be fit enough to play in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/losing-champions-league-final-would-be-painful-says-tottenhams-son-heung-min-218869">Champions League final</a> in Madrid.

Kane sustained what appeared to be a season-ending ligament injury against Manchester City in the quarter-finals but Pochettino believes he now has a good chance of at least making the bench against Liverpool on June 1.

"(Kane) is training and has entered the final stage of his recovery," the Argentine told reporters in Spain on Thursday.

"We're hoping he'll be able to give us a hand, either from the start, from the bench, or if not, then by giving us moral support in the dressing room. But we're optimistic he'll be able to help us on the pitch."

Pochettino said his team had defied expectations by reaching the final, which he expects to be an emotionally charged affair.

"Everyone's expecting a tactical battle, but I think the emotional side will be decisive -- that will dictate how the game develops," he added.

"(Liverpool) have invested in their squad to be able to compete for the Champions League but we are there too and on our own merit. Nobody expected Tottenham to be in the final... We have the chance to make history.

"You don't play finals, you win them and we're preparing to win it."

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane has entered the final stages of recovery from an ankle injury and manager Mauricio Pochettino is optimistic the striker will be fit enough to play in the Champions League final in Madrid.

Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane has entered the final stages of recovery from an ankle injury and manager Mauricio Pochettino is optimistic the striker will be fit enough to play in the Champions League final in Madrid. Kane sustained what appeared to be a season-ending ligament injury against Manchester City in the quarter-finals but Pochettino believes he now has a good chance of at least making the bench against Liverpool on June 1. "(Kane) is training and has entered the final stage of his recovery," the Argentine told reporters in Spain on Thursday. "We're hoping he'll be able to give us a hand, either from the start, from the bench, or if not, then by giving us moral support in the dressing room. But we're optimistic he'll be able to help us on the pitch." Pochettino said his team had defied expectations by reaching the final, which he expects to be an emotionally charged affair. "Everyone's expecting a tactical battle, but I think the emotional side will be decisive -- that will dictate how the game develops," he added. "(Liverpool) have invested in their squad to be able to compete for the Champions League but we are there too and on our own merit. Nobody expected Tottenham to be in the final... We have the chance to make history. "You don't play finals, you win them and we're preparing to win it."

Mauricio Pochettino optimistic Harry Kane will play in Champions League final

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken.

Ajax's improbable European run seemed set to go on all the way to the final as they led 3-2 on aggregate deep in stoppage time in the second leg of the semi-final at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

That was when the ball broke to Lucas in the box and the Brazilian sent a low shot beyond the despairing dive of Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana to seal their comeback, making it 3-2 to them on the night, 3-3 on aggregate, and taking Mauricio Pochettino's men through on away goals.

The Ajax players slumped to the turf, their fans stunned, as they go out and Spurs advance to face fellow comeback kings Liverpool in an all-English final in Madrid on June 1.

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Tottenham will face Liverpool in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLfinal</a>
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Leading 1-0 after the first leg, the thrilling young Dutch side appeared to have killed the tie after captain Matthijs de Ligt and Hakim Ziyech both scored in the first half here.

That left Tottenham needing a comeback to match that of Liverpool against Barcelona the previous night, but in an even shorter amount of time.

A quickfire brace by Lucas early in the second half gave them something to cling to, before he struck the decisive blow, denying Ajax a first final since 1996.

Erik ten Hag's team, who had already eliminated the holders, Real Madrid, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus this season, were applauded by their devastated fans at full-time and must now somehow lift themselves to try to win the Dutch title.

They had been dealt a blow just minutes before kick-off when Brazilian winger David Neres pulled out of their starting line-up after the warm-up, his place taken by the young Dane, Kasper Dolberg.

Whirlwind start

That last-minute switch did not perturb the Dutch club, though. Far from it. Dusan Tadic moved to the left wing, and Ajax set about tearing into their opponents right from the off, just as they had done in the first leg.

They won a corner after Hugo Lloris had stretched to his left to beat away a Tadic shot, and from the delivery that followed from Lasse Schoene, De Ligt rose to head home a fifth-minute opener.

Spurs -- without Harry Kane but with Son Heung-min back after missing the first leg due to suspension -- did threaten an immediate reply as a Son cross hit the near post, but Ajax escaped and came again, a Tadic shot that fizzed just past the far post acting as a prelude for what was to follow in the 35th minute.

This time Tadic, the former Southampton player, cut the ball back for Ziyech, whose first-time shot on his left foot flew into the far corner from a difficult angle.

It was a wonderful goal, and it had surely killed the tie.

The Spurs fans were understandably subdued, and they would not have harboured too much hope in Fernando Llorente as the big striker replaced Victor Wanyama for the second half.

Yet the way Pochettino's side came back out after half-time echoed what Liverpool had done at Anfield 24 hours earlier.

They scored their first in the 55th minute, Lucas combining with Alli and slotting low past Onana.

Four minutes after that Onana made an improbable save from Llorente's effort inside the six-yard box, but the ball came back to Lucas and the Brazilian turned and managed to find a corner.

He wheeled away in celebration, all too aware that Tottenham were now just one goal away from completing the turnaround.

With such tension, Ajax no longer appeared so liberated, but Ziyech twice nearly scored again, grazing the post with a first-time shot and then hitting the same upright in the 79th minute.

Jan Vertonghen hit the bar at the other end, but just when it looked like Ajax would hang on, Lucas delivered the killer blow.

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken.

Lucas Moura's last-gasp strike took Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final for the first time in their history on Wednesday, completing his hat-trick and sealing an incredible 3-2 win over Ajax to leave the Dutch side heartbroken. Ajax's improbable European run seemed set to go on all the way to the final as they led 3-2 on aggregate deep in stoppage time in the second leg of the semi-final at the Johan Cruyff Arena. That was when the ball broke to Lucas in the box and the Brazilian sent a low shot beyond the despairing dive of Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana to seal their comeback, making it 3-2 to them on the night, 3-3 on aggregate, and taking Mauricio Pochettino's men through on away goals. The Ajax players slumped to the turf, their fans stunned, as they go out and Spurs advance to face fellow comeback kings Liverpool in an all-English final in Madrid on June 1. LATE DRAMA! 🤯🤯🤯 Tottenham will face Liverpool in the #UCLfinal — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 8, 2019 × Leading 1-0 after the first leg, the thrilling young Dutch side appeared to have killed the tie after captain Matthijs de Ligt and Hakim Ziyech both scored in the first half here. That left Tottenham needing a comeback to match that of Liverpool against Barcelona the previous night, but in an even shorter amount of time. A quickfire brace by Lucas early in the second half gave them something to cling to, before he struck the decisive blow, denying Ajax a first final since 1996. Erik ten Hag's team, who had already eliminated the holders, Real Madrid, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus this season, were applauded by their devastated fans at full-time and must now somehow lift themselves to try to win the Dutch title. They had been dealt a blow just minutes before kick-off when Brazilian winger David Neres pulled out of their starting line-up after the warm-up, his place taken by the young Dane, Kasper Dolberg. Whirlwind start That last-minute switch did not perturb the Dutch club, though. Far from it. Dusan Tadic moved to the left wing, and Ajax set about tearing into their opponents right from the off, just as they had done in the first leg. They won a corner after Hugo Lloris had stretched to his left to beat away a Tadic shot, and from the delivery that followed from Lasse Schoene, De Ligt rose to head home a fifth-minute opener. Spurs -- without Harry Kane but with Son Heung-min back after missing the first leg due to suspension -- did threaten an immediate reply as a Son cross hit the near post, but Ajax escaped and came again, a Tadic shot that fizzed just past the far post acting as a prelude for what was to follow in the 35th minute. This time Tadic, the former Southampton player, cut the ball back for Ziyech, whose first-time shot on his left foot flew into the far corner from a difficult angle. It was a wonderful goal, and it had surely killed the tie. The Spurs fans were understandably subdued, and they would not have harboured too much hope in Fernando Llorente as the big striker replaced Victor Wanyama for the second half. Yet the way Pochettino's side came back out after half-time echoed what Liverpool had done at Anfield 24 hours earlier. They scored their first in the 55th minute, Lucas combining with Alli and slotting low past Onana. Four minutes after that Onana made an improbable save from Llorente's effort inside the six-yard box, but the ball came back to Lucas and the Brazilian turned and managed to find a corner. He wheeled away in celebration, all too aware that Tottenham were now just one goal away from completing the turnaround. With such tension, Ajax no longer appeared so liberated, but Ziyech twice nearly scored again, grazing the post with a first-time shot and then hitting the same upright in the 79th minute. Jan Vertonghen hit the bar at the other end, but just when it looked like Ajax would hang on, Lucas delivered the killer blow.

Last-gasp Lucas Moura winner sends Tottenham into Champions League final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-gasp-lucas-moura-winner-sends-tottenham-into-champions-league-final-217128">Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle</a> in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday.

A day after Liverpool beat Barcelona 4-0 to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit, Tottenham came back from the dead after Ajax had looked certain to reach their first final for 23 years.

"I think that scoring the hat-trick. Three goals. If our players are superheroes, he is a super, super, superhero," Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said of Moura's stellar night.

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When asked about his departure from the club, Pochettino said, "Yes, I am going to leave (Tottenham), or if I lose, maybe too."

Tottenham had suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions before Wednesday's second leg and when Ajax led 2-0 at half-time, there was a celebratory mood inside the jam-packed Johan Cruyff Arena as Ajax fans' thoughts turned to Madrid.

But their joy turned into a nightmare as they were overwhelmed by a Tottenham side who dispensed with complicated tactics and simply threw the kitchen sink at their hosts.

"I learned a sentence here which is 'no pain, no gain'. And I think it's an amazing thing, because all the efforts we made in the last five years, it's today when you realize that the satisfaction'', Spurs'&nbsp;coach said.

Overwhelmed by the win, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino added, "The emotion is amazing, thank you to football. My players are heroes - in the last year, I was telling everyone this group are heroes. The second half they were amazing.''

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"It's difficult to compete at this level. I am so grateful to be a coach. To be in football and to live this type of football'', Pochettino said.

Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday.

Lucas Moura conjured the second Champions League miracle in 24 hours with a last-gasp winner to complete his hat-trick and a 3-2 win to send Tottenham Hotspur past a shattered Ajax Amsterdam into the final on away goals on Wednesday. A day after Liverpool beat Barcelona 4-0 to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit, Tottenham came back from the dead after Ajax had looked certain to reach their first final for 23 years. "I think that scoring the hat-trick. Three goals. If our players are superheroes, he is a super, super, superhero," Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino said of Moura's stellar night. Good morning! #UCL ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/jvyxQ6FKVN — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 9, 2019 × When asked about his departure from the club, Pochettino said, "Yes, I am going to leave (Tottenham), or if I lose, maybe too." Tottenham had suffered three consecutive defeats in all competitions before Wednesday's second leg and when Ajax led 2-0 at half-time, there was a celebratory mood inside the jam-packed Johan Cruyff Arena as Ajax fans' thoughts turned to Madrid. But their joy turned into a nightmare as they were overwhelmed by a Tottenham side who dispensed with complicated tactics and simply threw the kitchen sink at their hosts. "I learned a sentence here which is 'no pain, no gain'. And I think it's an amazing thing, because all the efforts we made in the last five years, it's today when you realize that the satisfaction'', Spurs' coach said. Overwhelmed by the win, Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino added, "The emotion is amazing, thank you to football. My players are heroes - in the last year, I was telling everyone this group are heroes. The second half they were amazing.'' 🎵🎉 Dressing room delight! 🎉🎵 📱 @MoussaSissoko#UCL ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/JpDWZQLYO6 — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) May 8, 2019 × "It's difficult to compete at this level. I am so grateful to be a coach. To be in football and to live this type of football'', Pochettino said.

I am going to leave, says coach Mauricio Pochettino after Tottenham enter Champions League final

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">4-0 win over Barcelona</a> on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final.

The German was clearly swept up in the emotion at the end of the game as a delirious Anfield crowd sang the club's anthem "You'll never walk alone" with the players lined up in front of the Kop.

"When I saw the boys after the game and saw the tears in their eyes, that’s football and they are professionals and it’s still like this," said Klopp.

"This club touches you like crazy, it’s like you feel much more than others in these moments. It’s really great, I love it.

"It’s a special night, very special. Winning against Barcelona is obviously one of the most difficult things in the world of football. Winning against Barcelona when you are actually 3-0 down makes it not easier.

"We had to score four goals and (were) not allowed to concede. That made it, again, more difficult. So we didn’t really think about it, to be 100 per cent honest.

"We tried to build on the performance at Barcelona, all the good things we did there, and tried to win the game step by step.

"We have the ball, we attack with whatever we have -- they have the ball, we defend with whatever we have. And that made it a really special game. It was really difficult to play against us tonight."

Liverpool took a seventh minute lead through Divock Origi and then struck twice after the break courtesy of substitute Georginio Wijnaldum before Origi got the crucial fourth goal.

Throughout the match, Liverpool played with pulsating energy and gritty determination, while still being able to carve open a trembling Barcelona defence.

"What the boys did -- this mix, again, of big heart and football skills -- is unbelievable," Klopp added.

"But ... we didn’t learn it in the first game, we knew it before already.

"I said to the boys before the game, 'I don’t think it’s possible but because it’s you I think we have a chance' -- is because they are really mentality giants.

"It’s unbelievable after the season we played, the games we had, the injuries we have now in this moment."

The German said few would have believed his team could get the result the needed to reach the final, where they will play Ajax Amsterdam or Tottenham Hotspur.

"If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don’t think you’ll find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting (in) a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," he said.

"I’m really proud to be the manager of this team. What they did tonight is so special and I will remember it forever. I don’t know if it happened before and I don’t know if it can happen again. The boys did it and it was brilliant."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the 4-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the 4-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final. The German was clearly swept up in the emotion at the end of the game as a delirious Anfield crowd sang the club's anthem "You'll never walk alone" with the players lined up in front of the Kop. "When I saw the boys after the game and saw the tears in their eyes, that’s football and they are professionals and it’s still like this," said Klopp. "This club touches you like crazy, it’s like you feel much more than others in these moments. It’s really great, I love it. "It’s a special night, very special. Winning against Barcelona is obviously one of the most difficult things in the world of football. Winning against Barcelona when you are actually 3-0 down makes it not easier. "We had to score four goals and (were) not allowed to concede. That made it, again, more difficult. So we didn’t really think about it, to be 100 per cent honest. "We tried to build on the performance at Barcelona, all the good things we did there, and tried to win the game step by step. "We have the ball, we attack with whatever we have -- they have the ball, we defend with whatever we have. And that made it a really special game. It was really difficult to play against us tonight." Liverpool took a seventh minute lead through Divock Origi and then struck twice after the break courtesy of substitute Georginio Wijnaldum before Origi got the crucial fourth goal. Throughout the match, Liverpool played with pulsating energy and gritty determination, while still being able to carve open a trembling Barcelona defence. "What the boys did -- this mix, again, of big heart and football skills -- is unbelievable," Klopp added. "But ... we didn’t learn it in the first game, we knew it before already. "I said to the boys before the game, 'I don’t think it’s possible but because it’s you I think we have a chance' -- is because they are really mentality giants. "It’s unbelievable after the season we played, the games we had, the injuries we have now in this moment." The German said few would have believed his team could get the result the needed to reach the final, where they will play Ajax Amsterdam or Tottenham Hotspur. "If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don’t think you’ll find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting (in) a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," he said. "I’m really proud to be the manager of this team. What they did tonight is so special and I will remember it forever. I don’t know if it happened before and I don’t know if it can happen again. The boys did it and it was brilliant."

Emotional Juergen Klopp hails 'unbelievable' triumph over Barcelona

Lionel Messi left Anfield in tears after Barcelona's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">humiliating 0-4 defeat to Liverpool</a> in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg that saw them miss out on a place in the final.&nbsp;

In a similar fashion, Barcelona were ousted last season in the quarter-finals. The Catalans beat Roma 4-1 at home but collapsed in the away leg to lose 3-0 in Rome and go out on away goals.&nbsp;

As per the reports, Messi was inconsolable in the Barcelona dressing room and he was further humiliated when coach Ernesto Valverde left for Liverpool's John Lennon Airport without him after Messi's drug test took longer than expected.&nbsp;

Messi was selected for a drugs test by anti-doping officials.&nbsp;

Barcelona were leading 3-0 following the first leg in the Camp Nou before a collapse at Anfield saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emotional-juergen-klopp-hails-unbelievable-triumph-over-barcelona-216907">Jurgen Klopp</a>'s men advance to their second consecutive final.

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Cries in a corridor 😭 
Has drugs test 💦 
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Two goals apiece for Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum saw Liverpool complete a miraculous turnaround with Suarez later saying his side "looked like kids" when describing the manner in which they defended as Origi struck Liverpool's winner.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi left Anfield in tears after Barcelona's humiliating 0-4 defeat to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg that saw them miss out on a place in the final.

Lionel Messi left Anfield in tears after Barcelona's humiliating 0-4 defeat to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg that saw them miss out on a place in the final. In a similar fashion, Barcelona were ousted last season in the quarter-finals. The Catalans beat Roma 4-1 at home but collapsed in the away leg to lose 3-0 in Rome and go out on away goals. As per the reports, Messi was inconsolable in the Barcelona dressing room and he was further humiliated when coach Ernesto Valverde left for Liverpool's John Lennon Airport without him after Messi's drug test took longer than expected. Messi was selected for a drugs test by anti-doping officials. Barcelona were leading 3-0 following the first leg in the Camp Nou before a collapse at Anfield saw Jurgen Klopp's men advance to their second consecutive final. Lionel Messi's night: Cries in a corridor 😭 Has drugs test 💦 Misses team bus 🚌 https://t.co/Z0VhHajkbq — Jack Wilson (@JackWilson_5) May 8, 2019 × Two goals apiece for Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum saw Liverpool complete a miraculous turnaround with Suarez later saying his side "looked like kids" when describing the manner in which they defended as Origi struck Liverpool's winner.

Lionel Messi broke down in tears in dressing room after Barcelona's Champions League exit

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-beat-villarreal-in-front-of-sparse-bernabeu-crowd-216190&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfkcz2uYniAhU1jOYKHTH_BJIQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1pPqQYzBjFI_rmNUhx_wxu">Atletico Madrid</a> captain Diego Godin is leaving the club after nine years when his contract expires in June, the Uruguayan defender said at a news conference on Tuesday, fighting to hold back tears.

Godin, 33, has played 387 times for Atletico since joining from Villarreal in 2010, scoring 27 goals - including famously clinching the club's first La Liga title in 18 years with a header in a 1-1 draw at Barcelona in 2014.

Godin did not say where he is going, but numerous Spanish media have reported that he is on his way to Italian Serie A club Inter Milan.

"I'm a little nervous, much more than I am before a game, but I have called everyone here to inform you that these are my final days at the club," Godin said.

Atletico president Enrique Cerezo added,&nbsp;"We are here to say goodbye to an Atletico legend. You have been a vital part of this great era for the club, with your efforts and your goals, like the one which gave us the title at the Nou Camp.

"You have fought in a thousand battles and defended the club's shirt in every game and you have worn the captain's armband. Wherever you end up, Atletico wishes you a lot of luck. Atletico is your family, the Wanda Metropolitano is your home," Cerezo said.

In addition to the La Liga triumph, Godin won two Europa League titles, one Copa del Rey, one Spanish Super Cup and three UEFA Super Cups with Atletico as well as reaching the 2014 and 2016 Champions League finals, only to lose both times to Real.

Godin's departure will leave another hole in Atletico's defence, with France international Lucas Hernandez already agreeing to join Bayern Munich in June after they paid his 80 million euro release clause.

Atletico Madrid captain Diego Godin is leaving the club after nine years when his contract expires in June, the Uruguayan defender said at a news conference on Tuesday, fighting to hold back tears.

Atletico Madrid captain Diego Godin is leaving the club after nine years when his contract expires in June, the Uruguayan defender said at a news conference on Tuesday, fighting to hold back tears. Godin, 33, has played 387 times for Atletico since joining from Villarreal in 2010, scoring 27 goals - including famously clinching the club's first La Liga title in 18 years with a header in a 1-1 draw at Barcelona in 2014. Godin did not say where he is going, but numerous Spanish media have reported that he is on his way to Italian Serie A club Inter Milan. "I'm a little nervous, much more than I am before a game, but I have called everyone here to inform you that these are my final days at the club," Godin said. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo added, "We are here to say goodbye to an Atletico legend. You have been a vital part of this great era for the club, with your efforts and your goals, like the one which gave us the title at the Nou Camp. "You have fought in a thousand battles and defended the club's shirt in every game and you have worn the captain's armband. Wherever you end up, Atletico wishes you a lot of luck. Atletico is your family, the Wanda Metropolitano is your home," Cerezo said. In addition to the La Liga triumph, Godin won two Europa League titles, one Copa del Rey, one Spanish Super Cup and three UEFA Super Cups with Atletico as well as reaching the 2014 and 2016 Champions League finals, only to lose both times to Real. Godin's departure will leave another hole in Atletico's defence, with France international Lucas Hernandez already agreeing to join Bayern Munich in June after they paid his 80 million euro release clause.

Captain Diego Godin announces Atletico departure after nine years

Lionel Messi had a brace here Wednesday as FC Barcelona inflicted a 3-0 defeat on Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal tie.

The Reds were better than the score showed, but will need some magic next week at Anfield to give themselves a chance at victory in Europe's elite club competition a year after losing in the final to Real Madrid.

For Barca, Wednesday night's contest in front of more than 98,000 people at Camp Nou was a giant step toward reaching the final for the first time since they last hoisted the Champions League trophy in 2015.

The visitors deployed their trademark high press and the home side struggled on the attack for the opening 15 minutes until Messi dropped back toward midfield to better enable the crucial linkups.

The Argentine superstar created two chances for Philippe Coutinho, who shot directly into the hands of Liverpool keeper Alisson on the first occasion before missing the target on the second.

Liverpool, who lost Naby Keita to injury in the 24th minute, continue to surge forward, but without posing any real danger to Marc-Andre ter Stegen's goal.

Two minutes after Jordan Henderson came in for Keita, Coutinho nudged the ball to Jordi Alba charging down the left flank. The defender's cross found Luis Suarez in the box and the Uruguay international got his first goal in Champions League play since April 4, 2018.

Wounded, the visitors continued to put pressure on the Barca defence and were poised to pull level when Henderson slipped the ball to Sadio Mane, only for the Senegalese striker to send his shot over the top of the net.

Liverpool were aggressive to start the second half and Ter Stegen had to turn aside shots from James Milner and Mo Salah.

Barca responded by putting aside their usual emphasis on possession, deciding to rely instead on the direct attack, and the initiative seemed to be with the visitors until a run by Messi in the 75th minute.

Reds midfielder Fabinho confronted Messi, but his successful challenge sent the ball on a path that ended with Suarez.

While the Uruguayan's volley bounced off the cross-bar, Messi pushed in the rebound to put Barcelona up 2-0. Eight minutes later, the captain put the final nail in Liverpool's coffin with a stunning free kick in the 83rd minute.

A Salah strike that looked bound for the back of Ter Stegen's net hit the post, denying Barcelona the consolation of an away goal.

Lionel Messi had a brace here Wednesday as FC Barcelona inflicted a 3-0 defeat on Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal tie. The Reds were better than the score showed, but will need some magic next week at Anfield to give themselves a chance at victory in Europe's elite club competition a year after losing in the final to Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi had a brace here Wednesday as FC Barcelona inflicted a 3-0 defeat on Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal tie. The Reds were better than the score showed, but will need some magic next week at Anfield to give themselves a chance at victory in Europe's elite club competition a year after losing in the final to Real Madrid. For Barca, Wednesday night's contest in front of more than 98,000 people at Camp Nou was a giant step toward reaching the final for the first time since they last hoisted the Champions League trophy in 2015. The visitors deployed their trademark high press and the home side struggled on the attack for the opening 15 minutes until Messi dropped back toward midfield to better enable the crucial linkups. The Argentine superstar created two chances for Philippe Coutinho, who shot directly into the hands of Liverpool keeper Alisson on the first occasion before missing the target on the second. Liverpool, who lost Naby Keita to injury in the 24th minute, continue to surge forward, but without posing any real danger to Marc-Andre ter Stegen's goal. Two minutes after Jordan Henderson came in for Keita, Coutinho nudged the ball to Jordi Alba charging down the left flank. The defender's cross found Luis Suarez in the box and the Uruguay international got his first goal in Champions League play since April 4, 2018. Wounded, the visitors continued to put pressure on the Barca defence and were poised to pull level when Henderson slipped the ball to Sadio Mane, only for the Senegalese striker to send his shot over the top of the net. Liverpool were aggressive to start the second half and Ter Stegen had to turn aside shots from James Milner and Mo Salah. Barca responded by putting aside their usual emphasis on possession, deciding to rely instead on the direct attack, and the initiative seemed to be with the visitors until a run by Messi in the 75th minute. Reds midfielder Fabinho confronted Messi, but his successful challenge sent the ball on a path that ended with Suarez. While the Uruguayan's volley bounced off the cross-bar, Messi pushed in the rebound to put Barcelona up 2-0. Eight minutes later, the captain put the final nail in Liverpool's coffin with a stunning free kick in the 83rd minute. A Salah strike that looked bound for the back of Ter Stegen's net hit the post, denying Barcelona the consolation of an away goal.

Lionel Messi leads Barcelona over Liverpool in Champions League semi-final first leg

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Klopp also referred to the English Premier League where the second-placed Liverpool are in a close contest with their rivals Manchester City for the league title.&nbsp;

On the eve of the UCL clash, Klopp said, "Messi would be for me – as a player I saw – the number one, 100 per cent, that's me."&nbsp;

"Cristiano Ronaldo is for sure in that as well and all the rest we have to see. I saw… I have coached a few really good players, but they didn't finish their careers so we have to… they still have time to develop."&nbsp;

"My father always said it's Pele, but I didn't see Pele live – I am too young for that. But there are lot of good players around, but that's my ranking – Leo (Messi) is, for me, the best," he added.&nbsp;

Back in August Messi, in his first public address as Barcelona captain, told a packed stadium before a friendly against Boca Juniors he and the players had made it their ambition to win the trophy for the sixth time.&nbsp;

"We promise that this season we will do all we can to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Camp Nou,"&nbsp;Messi to the Barca fans.&nbsp;

But Klopp said that it's not only about Messi, but there are also other 10 game changers as well.&nbsp;

"It's not only about Messi but of course it's about him as well,"&nbsp;Klopp&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"Can we concentrate on Messi? We should in a lot of moments but if we only concentrate on him there are 10 other world-class players who can decide the game as well.&nbsp;

"Messi said before the season, 'we want to bring back that cup'. That sounds like a threat to me. Now we did it, now we are here and all I can say is we want to go to the final as well," Klopp added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday. Klopp also referred to the English Premier League where the second-placed Liverpool are in a close contest with their rivals Manchester City for the league title. On the eve of the UCL clash, Klopp said, "Messi would be for me – as a player I saw – the number one, 100 per cent, that's me." "Cristiano Ronaldo is for sure in that as well and all the rest we have to see. I saw… I have coached a few really good players, but they didn't finish their careers so we have to… they still have time to develop." "My father always said it's Pele, but I didn't see Pele live – I am too young for that. But there are lot of good players around, but that's my ranking – Leo (Messi) is, for me, the best," he added. Back in August Messi, in his first public address as Barcelona captain, told a packed stadium before a friendly against Boca Juniors he and the players had made it their ambition to win the trophy for the sixth time. "We promise that this season we will do all we can to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Camp Nou," Messi to the Barca fans. But Klopp said that it's not only about Messi, but there are also other 10 game changers as well. "It's not only about Messi but of course it's about him as well," Klopp said. "Can we concentrate on Messi? We should in a lot of moments but if we only concentrate on him there are 10 other world-class players who can decide the game as well. "Messi said before the season, 'we want to bring back that cup'. That sounds like a threat to me. Now we did it, now we are here and all I can say is we want to go to the final as well," Klopp added.

Messi 'best player ever' but we have a chance, says Klopp ahead of UCL tie

Major takeaways from Tottenham 0-1 defeat to Ajax in the Champions League semi-final first leg

Ajax Amsterdam took a massive stride towards a first Champions League final for 23 years as Donny van de Beek's early goal earned a 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday.

Erik ten Hag's youthful Ajax side, featuring several players polished in the Dutch club's famed academy, were too energetic for a laboured Spurs team who hardly got a kick in the opening 25 minutes of their first European Cup semi-final for 57 years.

Such was Ajax's domination in the early stages that they could already have virtually sealed a place in the final -- but they had to be content with Van de Beek's 15th-minute goal.

Tottenham badly missed injured striker Harry Kane and the suspended Son Heung-min and managed only one shot on target.

Had David Neres's shot not bounced back off the base of the post late on it would have been an even more calamitous night for Mauricio Pochettino's struggling side.

As it stands they will go to Amsterdam next week with a glimmer of hope, even if only one club have ever reached the final by overturning a first-leg home loss.

"The away goal was the most important. Unfortunately, Neres hit the upright. If that had gone in, it would have been even better," Ajax's 19-year-old skipper Matthijs de Ligt said.

"But we must be satisfied with the 1-0 score. It was a tough battle but we were fortunately very sharp tonight."

Christian Eriksen, one of four former Ajax players in Tottenham's team, summed up the home mood.

"We were under-par, we didn't play our best at all. In the first 20 minutes, we were ball-watchers. We need to change it up a lot for the next game," the Dane said.

"We're lucky they hit the post and hopefully we can turn things around in Amsterdam."

Too Good

Ajax have already proved too good for Real Madrid and Juventus in the competition this season and were streets ahead of Spurs in the first half on a perfect night for football.

Tottenham were chasing shadows and fell behind after a quarter of an hour when Ajax sliced through the home defence with their quick-passing game.

Hakim Ziyech threaded the ball through to Van de Beek and the midfielder calmly placed his shot past keeper Hugo Lloris.

There was a suspicion of offside but unlike in Tottenham's epic quarter-final win over Manchester City, when Raheem Sterling's stoppage-time goal was ruled out, VAR could not save the London side this time as the Ajax fans celebrated.

Van de Beek should have made it 2-0 from Dusan Tadic's pass as Ajax dominated and when Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen was replaced by Moussa Sissoko in the 39th minute after a clash of heads with teammate and fellow former Ajax player Toby Alderweireld, it seemed nothing was going right for the hosts.

Tottenham's 34-year-old striker Fernando Llorente did his best to lead a blunt attack with little service, but the Spaniard headed wide from Kieran Trippier's cross.

The introduction of midfield powerhouse Sissoko injected some much-needed energy into a flagging Tottenham side and he fizzed a shot wide from Llorente's knockdown before halftime.

Spurs enjoyed their best spell early in the second period as they switched to a more direct approach and Dele Alli had a couple of half chances.

But Ajax showed they can defend as well as attack and rarely looked stretched as the hosts huffed and puffed in search of an equaliser.

Tottenham were vulnerable to the counter, however, and Ajax came close to doubling the lead, and leaving Spurs with a near-impossible task in the second leg, after 78 minutes when Tadic linked up with Neres whose side-footed shot struck the post.

Ajax Amsterdam took a massive stride towards a first Champions League final for 23 years as Donny van de Beek's early goal earned a 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday.

Ajax Amsterdam took a massive stride towards a first Champions League final for 23 years as Donny van de Beek's early goal earned a 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday. Erik ten Hag's youthful Ajax side, featuring several players polished in the Dutch club's famed academy, were too energetic for a laboured Spurs team who hardly got a kick in the opening 25 minutes of their first European Cup semi-final for 57 years. Such was Ajax's domination in the early stages that they could already have virtually sealed a place in the final -- but they had to be content with Van de Beek's 15th-minute goal. Tottenham badly missed injured striker Harry Kane and the suspended Son Heung-min and managed only one shot on target. Had David Neres's shot not bounced back off the base of the post late on it would have been an even more calamitous night for Mauricio Pochettino's struggling side. As it stands they will go to Amsterdam next week with a glimmer of hope, even if only one club have ever reached the final by overturning a first-leg home loss. "The away goal was the most important. Unfortunately, Neres hit the upright. If that had gone in, it would have been even better," Ajax's 19-year-old skipper Matthijs de Ligt said. "But we must be satisfied with the 1-0 score. It was a tough battle but we were fortunately very sharp tonight." Christian Eriksen, one of four former Ajax players in Tottenham's team, summed up the home mood. "We were under-par, we didn't play our best at all. In the first 20 minutes, we were ball-watchers. We need to change it up a lot for the next game," the Dane said. "We're lucky they hit the post and hopefully we can turn things around in Amsterdam." Too Good Ajax have already proved too good for Real Madrid and Juventus in the competition this season and were streets ahead of Spurs in the first half on a perfect night for football. Tottenham were chasing shadows and fell behind after a quarter of an hour when Ajax sliced through the home defence with their quick-passing game. Hakim Ziyech threaded the ball through to Van de Beek and the midfielder calmly placed his shot past keeper Hugo Lloris. There was a suspicion of offside but unlike in Tottenham's epic quarter-final win over Manchester City, when Raheem Sterling's stoppage-time goal was ruled out, VAR could not save the London side this time as the Ajax fans celebrated. Van de Beek should have made it 2-0 from Dusan Tadic's pass as Ajax dominated and when Spurs defender Jan Vertonghen was replaced by Moussa Sissoko in the 39th minute after a clash of heads with teammate and fellow former Ajax player Toby Alderweireld, it seemed nothing was going right for the hosts. Tottenham's 34-year-old striker Fernando Llorente did his best to lead a blunt attack with little service, but the Spaniard headed wide from Kieran Trippier's cross. The introduction of midfield powerhouse Sissoko injected some much-needed energy into a flagging Tottenham side and he fizzed a shot wide from Llorente's knockdown before halftime. Spurs enjoyed their best spell early in the second period as they switched to a more direct approach and Dele Alli had a couple of half chances. But Ajax showed they can defend as well as attack and rarely looked stretched as the hosts huffed and puffed in search of an equaliser. Tottenham were vulnerable to the counter, however, and Ajax came close to doubling the lead, and leaving Spurs with a near-impossible task in the second leg, after 78 minutes when Tadic linked up with Neres whose side-footed shot struck the post.

Champions League: Ajax edge Tottenham in semi-final first leg