Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

City came from behind with a stunning second-half performance in the French capital last week to take a giant step towards a goal they have been chasing ever since Sheikh Mansour's takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes.

Guardiola has won the Champions League twice as a coach when in charge of Barcelona, but has failed to do so in the past 10 years as he has suffered numerous agonising exits from Europe's premier club competition as Barca, Bayern Munich and City boss.

City moved to the brink of sealing a third Premier League title in four years at the weekend and Guardiola urged his side to maintain the same focus they have all season to see off PSG on Tuesday.

“The second-leg of semi-final always the toughest game, more than the final. We have to control our emotions to do exactly what we have to do," said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference.

"You cannot play 90 minutes like we played in the second half (in Paris). I would love to but it won't happen.

“You have to understand it will be a big battle and we are going to suffer. They have to visualise that we are going to do it.

"What we have to do is not different to what we have done over the last seven months. Go out and play our game and win."

PSG are also dreaming of winning the Champions League for the first time, but if they are to progress to the final for a second consecutive season, they will need to score at least twice at the Etihad.

City have not conceded more than once in a Champions League game all season as the centre-back partnership of Ruben Dias and John Stones has eradicated the sort of defensive lapses that have cost Guardiola's men in previous years in this competition.

Stones admitted the English champions-elect have to remain wary of the "world class" talents of PSG star duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, but said City are confident of finally getting to the final

"I think (we are) quietly confident, we have to be. It is a big occasion for us as players and as a club, a chance to get into a Champions League final," said Stones.

"We have got to go into it where we left off. We are really confident and excited for the challenge ahead."

Mbappe is an injury doubt after sitting out Saturday's 2-1 win over Lens due to a calf strain.

The French World Cup winner has travelled to Manchester with the rest of the PSG squad and Guardiola dismissed any suggestion he won't be available.

"He is going to play," added Guardiola. "I am looking forward to him playing, for the football and the game itself."

Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Pep Guardiola on Monday called on his Manchester City players to control their emotions if they are to reach a first ever Champions League final as they take a 2-1 lead into the second leg of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. City came from behind with a stunning second-half performance in the French capital last week to take a giant step towards a goal they have been chasing ever since Sheikh Mansour's takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes. Guardiola has won the Champions League twice as a coach when in charge of Barcelona, but has failed to do so in the past 10 years as he has suffered numerous agonising exits from Europe's premier club competition as Barca, Bayern Munich and City boss. City moved to the brink of sealing a third Premier League title in four years at the weekend and Guardiola urged his side to maintain the same focus they have all season to see off PSG on Tuesday. “The second-leg of semi-final always the toughest game, more than the final. We have to control our emotions to do exactly what we have to do," said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference. "You cannot play 90 minutes like we played in the second half (in Paris). I would love to but it won't happen. “You have to understand it will be a big battle and we are going to suffer. They have to visualise that we are going to do it. "What we have to do is not different to what we have done over the last seven months. Go out and play our game and win." PSG are also dreaming of winning the Champions League for the first time, but if they are to progress to the final for a second consecutive season, they will need to score at least twice at the Etihad. City have not conceded more than once in a Champions League game all season as the centre-back partnership of Ruben Dias and John Stones has eradicated the sort of defensive lapses that have cost Guardiola's men in previous years in this competition. Stones admitted the English champions-elect have to remain wary of the "world class" talents of PSG star duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, but said City are confident of finally getting to the final "I think (we are) quietly confident, we have to be. It is a big occasion for us as players and as a club, a chance to get into a Champions League final," said Stones. "We have got to go into it where we left off. We are really confident and excited for the challenge ahead." Mbappe is an injury doubt after sitting out Saturday's 2-1 win over Lens due to a calf strain. The French World Cup winner has travelled to Manchester with the rest of the PSG squad and Guardiola dismissed any suggestion he won't be available. "He is going to play," added Guardiola. "I am looking forward to him playing, for the football and the game itself."

Guardiola calls for Man City cool heads to see off PSG

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury.

Varane was taken off at half-time of Madrid's 2-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday and the French defender is now expected to sit out the game at Stamford Bridge.

Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Chelsea in last week's first leg at Valdebebas.

"After the tests carried out today on our player Raphael Varane by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he was diagnosed with an injury to the right adductor muscle," Real Madrid said in a statement on Monday.

Varane's injury is another major blow for Madrid, who are also in the heat of La Liga's title race, with a pivotal match at home to Sevilla coming up on Sunday.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane's side are two points behind Atletico Madrid, with four games left to play.

Eder Militao and Nacho Fernandez will likely form the central defensive partnership against Chelsea after they excelled while Varane was recently absent due to a positive test for Covid-19.

Sergio Ramos is also nearing a return to fitness following a calf injury, but it would be a surprise if the 35-year-old was thrown back in against Chelsea, after more than a month out.

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury.

Raphael Varane is set to miss Real Madrid's crunch Champions League second leg against Chelsea on Wednesday after the club confirmed he has sustained an adductor injury. Varane was taken off at half-time of Madrid's 2-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday and the French defender is now expected to sit out the game at Stamford Bridge. Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Chelsea in last week's first leg at Valdebebas. "After the tests carried out today on our player Raphael Varane by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he was diagnosed with an injury to the right adductor muscle," Real Madrid said in a statement on Monday. Varane's injury is another major blow for Madrid, who are also in the heat of La Liga's title race, with a pivotal match at home to Sevilla coming up on Sunday. Zinedine Zidane's side are two points behind Atletico Madrid, with four games left to play. Eder Militao and Nacho Fernandez will likely form the central defensive partnership against Chelsea after they excelled while Varane was recently absent due to a positive test for Covid-19. Sergio Ramos is also nearing a return to fitness following a calf injury, but it would be a surprise if the 35-year-old was thrown back in against Chelsea, after more than a month out.

Varane to miss Chelsea return after Real Madrid confirm injury

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions.

Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan.

"The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said.

Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval.

"There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said.

"The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us."

The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress.

"At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said.

City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson.

Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute.

City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide.

Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe.

City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net.

Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas.

Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday. PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions. Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. "The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said. Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval. "There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said. "The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us." The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress. "At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said. City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson. Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute. City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide. Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe. City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net. Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas. Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City fight back to beat 10-man Paris Saint-Germain in first leg

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

Last year's runners-up PSG got off to a solid start at the Parc des Princes and went ahead through Marquinhos in the 15th minute before being overwhelmed after the interval and conceding two goals and receiving a red card in the space of 14 minutes.

"We were the better team in the first half but then we conceded two goals we normally don't concede," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference.

Kevin De Bruyne netted the equaliser when his cross beat keeper Keylor Navas, who failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net.

Riyad Mahrez scored the winner with a free kick that sneaked through the wall before Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card.

"The key was that we didn't show the same energy with the ball than in the first half," Pochettino explained.

"But we are confident that we can turn this around and approach the second leg the same way. The first half showed that we were right in our approach of the game.

"We just have to keep the same intensity with the ball. That's what we have to improve."

Captain Marquinhos said that PSG needed more composure.

"Sometimes you have to be strategic and intelligent. We conceded two really stupid goals. These are details that will count," he said.

"Above all, we need to have personality. We have to have the mentality to win, to do whatever it takes to get through. We are very close, it's not the time to have doubts."

PSG will take comfort from the fact that they won their two away legs in the previous rounds, 4-1 at Barcelona in the last-16, and 3-2 at holders Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Manchester City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Manchester City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said. Last year's runners-up PSG got off to a solid start at the Parc des Princes and went ahead through Marquinhos in the 15th minute before being overwhelmed after the interval and conceding two goals and receiving a red card in the space of 14 minutes. "We were the better team in the first half but then we conceded two goals we normally don't concede," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference. Kevin De Bruyne netted the equaliser when his cross beat keeper Keylor Navas, who failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net. Riyad Mahrez scored the winner with a free kick that sneaked through the wall before Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card. "The key was that we didn't show the same energy with the ball than in the first half," Pochettino explained. "But we are confident that we can turn this around and approach the second leg the same way. The first half showed that we were right in our approach of the game. "We just have to keep the same intensity with the ball. That's what we have to improve." Captain Marquinhos said that PSG needed more composure. "Sometimes you have to be strategic and intelligent. We conceded two really stupid goals. These are details that will count," he said. "Above all, we need to have personality. We have to have the mentality to win, to do whatever it takes to get through. We are very close, it's not the time to have doubts." PSG will take comfort from the fact that they won their two away legs in the previous rounds, 4-1 at Barcelona in the last-16, and 3-2 at holders Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

PSG need to keep up intensity to see off Man City in return leg

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday.

Christian Pulisic rewarded a bright start from the visitors with a calm finish on 14 minutes.

But Karim Benzema's brilliant strike brought the 13-time European champions to life just before the half-hour mark.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the first leg:

<h2>Madrid show their age</h2>

Madrid's starting XI have a combined 31 Champions League winner's medals, eight of whom made up the core of the side that won the competition three seasons in a row between 2016 and 2018.

However, that experience counted for little against Chelsea's younger and fresher legs.

Pulisic, Timo Werner and Mason Mount stretched Real's back three, while N'Golo Kante and Jorginho did not allow Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to control midfield as they did in the previous round against Liverpool.

Madrid's knowhow in knockout ties could still prove vital with the tie delicately poised heading to Stamford Bridge in eight days' time.

But Chelsea will be confident of reaching just their third ever Champions League final.

<h2>Benzema shows up wasteful Werner</h2>

After scoring just his third goal in 37 games for club and country against West Ham on Saturday, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel kept faith with Werner up front.

But the German international showed the lack of confidence in front of goal that has characterised his first season with the Blues since a £50 million ($69 million) move from RB Leipzig.

Werner passed up a glorious chance to open the scoring in a dominant Chelsea start as he fired into the legs of Thibaut Courtois from point-blank range.

Madrid, on the other hand, were kept in the tie by their number nine on another night of Champions League history for Benzema.

The Frenchman moved level with Real legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals to become the joint fourth highest scorer in the competition's history.

Benzema gave Chelsea a warning shot with a thunderous effort that came back off the post.

His goal was also barely a half-chance as he cushioned the ball on his head before blasting past the helpless Edouard Mendy to prevent Chelsea registering a 17th clean sheet in 22 games under Tuchel.

<h2>Chelsea flex strength in depth</h2>

Both clubs were among the 'dirty dozen' that signed up to form a breakaway European Super League (ESL) last week, but their reactions since have contrasted sharply.

Chelsea's intent to withdraw a week ago started a domino effect as all six English clubs involved pulled out within 48 hours of the plans being released.

Meanwhile, Madrid president Florentino Perez has defiantly insisted the project remains alive, with only Barcelona as an unlikely ally.

Central to Perez's craving for change is that Madrid are no longer the biggest spenders in the transfer market.

Faced with the state-backed Middle Eastern wealth of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, who face off in the other semi-final on Wednesday, or the millions invested by Chelsea's Russian oligarch owner Roman Abramovich, Madrid are struggling to compete.

The £220 million spent by Chelsea last summer showed in the respective strength of both benches.

Tuchel was able to introduce Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Reece James with 25 minutes to go to give his side a fresh impetus.

The sale of Eden Hazard to Madrid for an initial 100m euros ($120 million) also helped fund Chelsea's rebuild.

Hazard's time in Madrid, though, has been decimated by injuries and he made barely any impact against his former club as a second-half substitute.

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday.

Chelsea hold the upper hand with an away goal heading into the second leg of their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after a tight battle in the Spanish capital ended 1-1 on Tuesday. Christian Pulisic rewarded a bright start from the visitors with a calm finish on 14 minutes. But Karim Benzema's brilliant strike brought the 13-time European champions to life just before the half-hour mark. Here, AFP Sport looks at three talking points from the first leg: Madrid show their age Madrid's starting XI have a combined 31 Champions League winner's medals, eight of whom made up the core of the side that won the competition three seasons in a row between 2016 and 2018. However, that experience counted for little against Chelsea's younger and fresher legs. Pulisic, Timo Werner and Mason Mount stretched Real's back three, while N'Golo Kante and Jorginho did not allow Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to control midfield as they did in the previous round against Liverpool. Madrid's knowhow in knockout ties could still prove vital with the tie delicately poised heading to Stamford Bridge in eight days' time. But Chelsea will be confident of reaching just their third ever Champions League final. Benzema shows up wasteful Werner After scoring just his third goal in 37 games for club and country against West Ham on Saturday, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel kept faith with Werner up front. But the German international showed the lack of confidence in front of goal that has characterised his first season with the Blues since a £50 million ($69 million) move from RB Leipzig. Werner passed up a glorious chance to open the scoring in a dominant Chelsea start as he fired into the legs of Thibaut Courtois from point-blank range. Madrid, on the other hand, were kept in the tie by their number nine on another night of Champions League history for Benzema. The Frenchman moved level with Real legend Raul on 71 Champions League goals to become the joint fourth highest scorer in the competition's history. Benzema gave Chelsea a warning shot with a thunderous effort that came back off the post. His goal was also barely a half-chance as he cushioned the ball on his head before blasting past the helpless Edouard Mendy to prevent Chelsea registering a 17th clean sheet in 22 games under Tuchel. Chelsea flex strength in depth Both clubs were among the 'dirty dozen' that signed up to form a breakaway European Super League (ESL) last week, but their reactions since have contrasted sharply. Chelsea's intent to withdraw a week ago started a domino effect as all six English clubs involved pulled out within 48 hours of the plans being released. Meanwhile, Madrid president Florentino Perez has defiantly insisted the project remains alive, with only Barcelona as an unlikely ally. Central to Perez's craving for change is that Madrid are no longer the biggest spenders in the transfer market. Faced with the state-backed Middle Eastern wealth of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, who face off in the other semi-final on Wednesday, or the millions invested by Chelsea's Russian oligarch owner Roman Abramovich, Madrid are struggling to compete. The £220 million spent by Chelsea last summer showed in the respective strength of both benches. Tuchel was able to introduce Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Reece James with 25 minutes to go to give his side a fresh impetus. The sale of Eden Hazard to Madrid for an initial 100m euros ($120 million) also helped fund Chelsea's rebuild. Hazard's time in Madrid, though, has been decimated by injuries and he made barely any impact against his former club as a second-half substitute.

Champions League: Three talking points from Real Madrid 1-1 Chelsea

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents.

US&nbsp;forward Christian Pulisic fired Chelsea in front in the 14th minute in the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, and the visitors created plenty more opportunities in the first half as 13-times winners Real struggled to make any inroads at the other end.

Yet Chelsea's inability to score a second away goal proved costly as Karim Benzema's fine effort levelled things up before the break with his side's only shot on target in the opening period.

"I have a feeling we should have won the first half and we could have perhaps decided this game in the first half an hour when we were playing so strong," Tuchel told the BBC.

"The second half was a tactical game and you could feel we only had two days in between two away games which made it physically and mentally demanding and you could feel it in the decision making.

"We suffered a bit and an extra day would have been nice."

Timo Werner failed to beat Thibaut Courtois from close range early in the game and Tuchel was left frustrated by the German striker's inability to put away clear chances.

"He missed a big one at West Ham United (on Saturday) and now he's missed a big one here, that doesn't help," Tuchel told a news conference. "It doesn't help crying about it or regretting it.

"There are millions of people who have harder things to deal with than chances that you miss... I don't feel we're pointing fingers but of course the strikers want to score.

"This is the highest level and when you have a good half an hour like we did... then yes we wish for more composure and more precision in the decision making and finishing."

Tuchel continued his fine record against Zinedine Zidane's side in Europe's premier club competition - the German is the only manager to face Real as many as five times without ever losing in Champions League history.

Having scored the away goal, Chelsea are in the driving seat to reach a first Champions League final since 2012 ahead of next week's return leg at Stamford Bridge.

"It is just the first half (of the tie), we knew against Real Madrid it would be tough," Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta told BT Sport.

"We started with courage, we had to perform at our best level. The semi-final of a Champions League asks you to play your best. We missed that last pass where we could choose the best option.

"But in the overall analysis we performed well. As a unit I think we are all improving and all growing."

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his side should have wrapped up their Champions League semi-final first leg with Real Madrid in the first half on Tuesday and rued missed chances in the 1-1 draw that could have put the game beyond their opponents. US forward Christian Pulisic fired Chelsea in front in the 14th minute in the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, and the visitors created plenty more opportunities in the first half as 13-times winners Real struggled to make any inroads at the other end. Yet Chelsea's inability to score a second away goal proved costly as Karim Benzema's fine effort levelled things up before the break with his side's only shot on target in the opening period. "I have a feeling we should have won the first half and we could have perhaps decided this game in the first half an hour when we were playing so strong," Tuchel told the BBC. "The second half was a tactical game and you could feel we only had two days in between two away games which made it physically and mentally demanding and you could feel it in the decision making. "We suffered a bit and an extra day would have been nice." Timo Werner failed to beat Thibaut Courtois from close range early in the game and Tuchel was left frustrated by the German striker's inability to put away clear chances. "He missed a big one at West Ham United (on Saturday) and now he's missed a big one here, that doesn't help," Tuchel told a news conference. "It doesn't help crying about it or regretting it. "There are millions of people who have harder things to deal with than chances that you miss... I don't feel we're pointing fingers but of course the strikers want to score. "This is the highest level and when you have a good half an hour like we did... then yes we wish for more composure and more precision in the decision making and finishing." Tuchel continued his fine record against Zinedine Zidane's side in Europe's premier club competition - the German is the only manager to face Real as many as five times without ever losing in Champions League history. Having scored the away goal, Chelsea are in the driving seat to reach a first Champions League final since 2012 ahead of next week's return leg at Stamford Bridge. "It is just the first half (of the tie), we knew against Real Madrid it would be tough," Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta told BT Sport. "We started with courage, we had to perform at our best level. The semi-final of a Champions League asks you to play your best. We missed that last pass where we could choose the best option. "But in the overall analysis we performed well. As a unit I think we are all improving and all growing."

Champions League: Chelsea's Tuchel rues missed chances that let Real off the hook

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute.

Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net.

Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance.

"We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said.

"It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1."

This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition.

It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves.

<h2>UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE</h2>

The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs.

Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot.

Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post.

The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time.

The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end.

Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29.

"We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different."

"We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Chelsea held their own away to Real Madrid but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg after Karim Benzema scored an acrobatic goal to cancel out an early strike from Christian Pulisic. Chelsea made a bright start in heavy rain at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium and deservedly went ahead when U.S. forward Pulisic rounded Thibaut Courtois to score in the 14th minute. Thirteen times European Cup winners Real looked ragged and short on ideas but pulled level in the 29th with a moment of true class from the talismanic Benzema, who controlled a knockdown before volleying into the roof of the net. Chelsea looked the better side in the second half as well but could not break down Real again and then had to withstand some late pressure from the hosts, who visit Stamford Bridge in the second leg on May 5 looking to reach the final for a fifth time in eight years. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel was frustrated his side could not make the most of their early dominance. "We started the game very well, we were aggressive, we showed courage and quality, we deserved to win the first half. Unfortunately they scored from a set-piece, there was nothing else from them for us to defend," he said. "It was a disappointing result at halftime the second half was a very tactical game. A bit more composure and precision in front of goal and we would have won the first half but we have to live with 1-1." This was the first ever Champions League meeting between the two sides, who were both named as founding clubs in the controversial European Super League last week before Chelsea hastily withdrew from the competition. It was far from an idyllic setting for such an occasion, played at the tiny, empty arena located at Real's training ground and the non-stop rain made it harder for either side to create flowing passing moves. UNSTOPPABLE STRIKE The visitors had the first clear opening when Pulisic nodded across to Timo Werner but former Chelsea keeper Courtois thwarted the German striker with his legs. Pulisic took no chances the next time he got into the area, controlling a long ball from Antonio Rudiger and dribbling around Courtois before calmly passing it into the net, despite the efforts of Raphael Varane and Nacho to block the shot. Benzema carved out Madrid's first chance through his own efforts, swivelling away from a Chelsea defender on the edge of the area before aiming for the top corner and hitting the post. The Frenchman had better fortune with his next attempt, controlling Eder Militao's header following a corner before unleashing an unstoppable strike, scoring his 28th goal of the season and his 71st in the Champions League, joining Real great Raul as the competition's joint-fourth top scorer of all time. The second half was more cagey as the spirit Chelsea had showed early in the match dried up as they tired, although they still managed to control the game while barely allowing Real a sniff until the end. Real defender Marcelo admitted his side had underperformed but was confident about their chances of making it to the final in Istanbul on May 29. "We knew that could happen but there's another game to come, we're still feeling good and we know what we have to do, the return leg will be different." "We didn't dictate the pace of the game and had to adapt but we're feeling calm."

Champions League: Benzema stunner for Real frustrates impressive Chelsea

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week.

Yet his route to the top, sidestepping the usual youth academy apprenticeship, is variously described by his former coaches in Sarcelles as "unlikely" and the player himself as an "anomaly".

Now 30, the winger has been a key player for City this season, scoring in their Champions League quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund and playing the 90 minutes as Pep Guardiola's side defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the English League Cup final on Sunday.

He has also won the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria, the country from where his father emigrated to France.

Mahrez himself grew up in Sarcelles, in the "banlieues" around 20 kilometres north of Paris, and learned the game at a local amateur club, leaving a mark on those who played with him as he made his journey to one of Europe's biggest sides.

"The only person who believed was Riyad himself," Hayel Mbemba, who played with Mahrez at AAS Sarcelles, told AFP. "He has a strength of character which is above the average. He is football crazy, and that is an understatement."

"He owes his success entirely to himself. He had an unwavering self-confidence. Some people might think it's arrogance but it's not the case," explains Mohamed Coulibaly, who runs the local club.

The production line of world-class players coming through the Paris suburbs is remarkable and seemingly never-ending, from Thierry Henry to Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe and many more in between.&nbsp;

<h2>- Frail -</h2>

However, while Mahrez was always a young player with outstanding technical gifts, that was no guarantee he would make it in the game.

His former coaches recall how his frail physique seemed to work against him, but aged 18 he left Sarcelles for a trial at Quimper, an amateur fourth-tier club in distant Brittany.

From there he earned a professional deal at Le Havre, the second-division club where Pogba first played.

Mahrez spent four years in the Normandy port city before crossing the English Channel to sign for Leicester City, then in the second-tier Championship.

He has never looked back since moving to England, but sources close to Mahrez say he was "hesitant" and that he "sought the advice of his friends in Sarcelles who convinced him to go".

It is just as well he went.

Mahrez won the English Premier League with Leicester, against all odds, in 2016 and is now on the brink of a second Premier League title in three seasons with City.

The Champions League could follow, if Mahrez can help City get the better of his home-town club first.

"His journey is something of an anomaly in football. He has beaten the odds all thanks to his technical ability," says Mbemba, and there is a belief that missing out on youth academy coaching has allowed him to retain an element of the street footballer so rarely seen in the modern game.

"When I watch him on the television he dribbles in the same way he did when he was 10 years old," says Franck Satougle, who once coached Mahrez.

Satougle watched Mahrez play as a kid and remembers how, even after he turned professional at Le Havre, he would come back to Sarcelles on a Sunday and play in the neighbourhood where he grew up.

<h2>- Local pride -</h2>

"His journey is the dream of every kid in the 'banlieues'. He is just a few steps away from winning the greatest trophy in European football despite his unlikely route to the top."

Sarcelles may be PSG territory, but there is still plenty of local pride at Mahrez's success.

"Riyad is a respected person with exemplary physical and mental discipline. He is a source of inspiration for the people of Sarcelles," says Patrick Haddad, the mayor of the town. He awarded Mahrez the medal of Sarcelles in 2019.&nbsp;

Mahrez may be the captain of Algeria but he remains attached to the suburb where he grew up and is involved in a scheme which allows youths from Sarcelles to travel to Manchester to watch City.

A stadium named after Mahrez will be inaugurated later this year in Sarcelles.

"He is a good lad who is still a child at heart and who expresses himself with the ball," adds Mbemba.

PSG had better watch out.&nbsp;

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week.

Born and brought up in a gritty Paris suburb, Riyad Mahrez has gone on to become one of the leading players of his generation and returns to the French capital with Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals this week. Yet his route to the top, sidestepping the usual youth academy apprenticeship, is variously described by his former coaches in Sarcelles as "unlikely" and the player himself as an "anomaly". Now 30, the winger has been a key player for City this season, scoring in their Champions League quarter-final win over Borussia Dortmund and playing the 90 minutes as Pep Guardiola's side defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the English League Cup final on Sunday. He has also won the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria, the country from where his father emigrated to France. Mahrez himself grew up in Sarcelles, in the "banlieues" around 20 kilometres north of Paris, and learned the game at a local amateur club, leaving a mark on those who played with him as he made his journey to one of Europe's biggest sides. "The only person who believed was Riyad himself," Hayel Mbemba, who played with Mahrez at AAS Sarcelles, told AFP. "He has a strength of character which is above the average. He is football crazy, and that is an understatement." "He owes his success entirely to himself. He had an unwavering self-confidence. Some people might think it's arrogance but it's not the case," explains Mohamed Coulibaly, who runs the local club. The production line of world-class players coming through the Paris suburbs is remarkable and seemingly never-ending, from Thierry Henry to Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappe and many more in between. - Frail - However, while Mahrez was always a young player with outstanding technical gifts, that was no guarantee he would make it in the game. His former coaches recall how his frail physique seemed to work against him, but aged 18 he left Sarcelles for a trial at Quimper, an amateur fourth-tier club in distant Brittany. From there he earned a professional deal at Le Havre, the second-division club where Pogba first played. Mahrez spent four years in the Normandy port city before crossing the English Channel to sign for Leicester City, then in the second-tier Championship. He has never looked back since moving to England, but sources close to Mahrez say he was "hesitant" and that he "sought the advice of his friends in Sarcelles who convinced him to go". It is just as well he went. Mahrez won the English Premier League with Leicester, against all odds, in 2016 and is now on the brink of a second Premier League title in three seasons with City. The Champions League could follow, if Mahrez can help City get the better of his home-town club first. "His journey is something of an anomaly in football. He has beaten the odds all thanks to his technical ability," says Mbemba, and there is a belief that missing out on youth academy coaching has allowed him to retain an element of the street footballer so rarely seen in the modern game. "When I watch him on the television he dribbles in the same way he did when he was 10 years old," says Franck Satougle, who once coached Mahrez. Satougle watched Mahrez play as a kid and remembers how, even after he turned professional at Le Havre, he would come back to Sarcelles on a Sunday and play in the neighbourhood where he grew up. - Local pride - "His journey is the dream of every kid in the 'banlieues'. He is just a few steps away from winning the greatest trophy in European football despite his unlikely route to the top." Sarcelles may be PSG territory, but there is still plenty of local pride at Mahrez's success. "Riyad is a respected person with exemplary physical and mental discipline. He is a source of inspiration for the people of Sarcelles," says Patrick Haddad, the mayor of the town. He awarded Mahrez the medal of Sarcelles in 2019. Mahrez may be the captain of Algeria but he remains attached to the suburb where he grew up and is involved in a scheme which allows youths from Sarcelles to travel to Manchester to watch City. A stadium named after Mahrez will be inaugurated later this year in Sarcelles. "He is a good lad who is still a child at heart and who expresses himself with the ball," adds Mbemba. PSG had better watch out.

Mahrez's 'unlikely' journey from Paris suburbs to Champions League semi against PSG

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement.

UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced.

"I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday.

"A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game.

"All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year."

Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League.

"The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane.

The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg.

Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play.

The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9.

"We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017.

"We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens."

Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January.

"He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury.

However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd".

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Monday hit back at calls for his club to be banned from the Champions League for their part in the failed European Super League proposals, saying the suggestion was "absurd". The Spanish giants were one of 12 major European clubs to launch the ill-fated Super League last week, with the club's president Florentino Perez insisting the project could still go ahead despite nine of the teams withdrawing within 72 hours of the initial announcement. UEFA threatened the clubs with "consequences" before the plans fell apart, but Zidane said any thoughts of a Champions League ban were misplaced. "I have already given an answer to this. It is absurd to think we could not be in the Champions League. It is absurd, enough said," the Frenchman insisted ahead of his side's semi-final first leg against Chelsea on Tuesday. "A lot is being said about this at the moment from outside and from within. What we need to focus on is tomorrow's game. "All the rest is stuff we can't control, but my opinion is that we want to see Real Madrid in the Champions League next year." Real chief Perez has been widely criticised for his part in creating the Super League. "The president knows what I have in my heart and we are here to prepare for tomorrow's game. Now is not the time to talk about anything else," said Zidane. The La Liga champions are bidding for a record-extending 14th European crown this season and host an in-form Chelsea side in the first leg. Real slipped to a second draw in three league games in a stalemate with Real Betis on Saturday, leaving them two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid with five matches to play. The capital club host Osasuna this weekend before the second leg against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, and then face league title rivals Sevilla in Madrid on May 9. "We are alive in both competitions, we are not going to choose one over the other," added Zidane, who led Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League double in 2017. "We have had lots of difficulties but we have always showed that we are capable of lifting ourselves. Now we have a month of the season left and we are going to compete until the end, whatever happens." Eden Hazard returned from injury as a 77th-minute substitute against Betis, having made only one other brief substitute appearance since January. "He didn't feel anything. We are pleased to have Eden with us. He will bring a lot to the team," said Zidane, who will also have midfielder Toni Kroos available after a recent muscle injury. However, full-back Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the Chelsea first leg.

'Absurd' to think Real could be banned from Champions League - Zidane

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea.

The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday.

That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg.

But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday.

Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign.

"They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said.

Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons.

They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday. De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea. The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday. That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg. But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday. Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign. "They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said. Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons. They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Man City's De Bruyne fit for League Cup final, PSG clash

The European Super League has been hung out to dry after Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan decided to follow the six Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway competition.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-cant-go-ahead-without-premier-league-teams-esl-founder-andrea-agnelli-378998" hreflang="en">European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli</a>

According to AS, UEFA has now decided that there will be no immediate sanctions for the 12 breakaway clubs. Three of these clubs are in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League this year. However, these matches will go on as planned as these clubs will not face any sanctions.&nbsp;

After the exit of the number of clubs from the Super League, the fate of the competition is unknown.&nbsp;

But, Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-fans-took-on-multi-billionaires-to-take-down-european-super-league-379039" hreflang="en">How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League</a>

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold".

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement.

"But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game.

"The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

The European Super League has been hung out to dry after Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan decided to follow the six Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway competition.

The European Super League has been hung out to dry after Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan decided to follow the six Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway competition. ALSO READ: European Super League can't go ahead without Premier League teams: ESL founder Andrea Agnelli According to AS, UEFA has now decided that there will be no immediate sanctions for the 12 breakaway clubs. Three of these clubs are in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League this year. However, these matches will go on as planned as these clubs will not face any sanctions. After the exit of the number of clubs from the Super League, the fate of the competition is unknown. But, Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic. IN PICS| How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold". "I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement. "But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game. "The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

UEFA issues statement regarding clubs who were associated to European Super League

European Super League was hung out to dry after all Premier League clubs withdrew their name from the competition after a massive uproar from fans.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-fans-took-on-multi-billionaires-to-take-down-european-super-league-379039" hreflang="en">How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League</a>

Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

Now, UEFA Champions League's official sponsor Heineken took to social media to take a dig at the European Super League.&nbsp;

They captioned it: "Don't drink &amp; start a league."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BetterTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BetterTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yrf7GGug9v">pic.twitter.com/Yrf7GGug9v</a>
— Heineken (@Heineken) <a href="https://twitter.com/Heineken/status/1384796309773766658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Dutch brewing company has been an official sponsor of the UEFA Champions League since 1994. The netizens lauded the beer company's tweet.&nbsp;

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Bulls eye <a href="https://t.co/xUe2igCihl">https://t.co/xUe2igCihl</a>
— Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricSubhayan/status/1384823418969677827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Brilliant!😂 <a href="https://t.co/O4ogZVk3Uy">pic.twitter.com/O4ogZVk3Uy</a>
— Malumbano (@thewakingGiant9) <a href="https://twitter.com/thewakingGiant9/status/1384877976618209280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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this has to be one of the greatest real time marketing and newsjacking post in a loooong time. 👏🍻
— Major Robert (@rubentzz) <a href="https://twitter.com/rubentzz/status/1384855637755154434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Best Marketing come back
— julian a Chetty (@Julian_Chetty76) <a href="https://twitter.com/Julian_Chetty76/status/1384822568973131778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Several called it the best marketing comeback and were overjoyed with the suspension of the European Super League.&nbsp;

Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs.

The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold".

"I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement.

"But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game.

"The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together."

(With inputs from agencies)

European Super League was hung out to dry after all Premier League clubs withdrew their name from the competition after a massive uproar from fans. IN PICS| How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism.

European Super League was hung out to dry after all Premier League clubs withdrew their name from the competition after a massive uproar from fans. IN PICS| How fans took on multi-billionaires to take down European Super League Atletico Madrid, Inter and AC Milan have followed all six English Premier League clubs in quitting the breakaway European Super League on Wednesday as the latest development gave another hammer blow to a project that prompted worldwide criticism. Now, UEFA Champions League's official sponsor Heineken took to social media to take a dig at the European Super League. They captioned it: "Don't drink & start a league." #BetterTogether pic.twitter.com/Yrf7GGug9v — Heineken (@Heineken) April 21, 2021 × The Dutch brewing company has been an official sponsor of the UEFA Champions League since 1994. The netizens lauded the beer company's tweet. Bulls eye https://t.co/xUe2igCihl — Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) April 21, 2021 × Brilliant!😂 pic.twitter.com/O4ogZVk3Uy — Malumbano (@thewakingGiant9) April 21, 2021 × this has to be one of the greatest real time marketing and newsjacking post in a loooong time. 👏🍻 — Major Robert (@rubentzz) April 21, 2021 × Best Marketing come back — julian a Chetty (@Julian_Chetty76) April 21, 2021 × Several called it the best marketing comeback and were overjoyed with the suspension of the European Super League. Juventus president and one of the ESL founders, Andrea Agnelli acknowledged it was an impossible task to proceed without the English clubs. The Super League promised guaranteed entry for its founding clubs and billions of dollars in payments. Most of the clubs have huge debts and wage bills and suffered a sharp drop in revenues during the coronavirus pandemic. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and described the English clubs as "back in the fold". "I said yesterday that it is admirable to admit a mistake and these clubs made a big mistake," Ceferin said in a statement. "But they are back in the fold now and I know they have a lot to offer not just to our competitions but to the whole of the European game. "The important thing now is that we move on, rebuild the unity that the game enjoyed before this and move forward together." (With inputs from agencies)

'Don't drink and start a league': UEFA Champions League's official sponsor takes a dig at European Super League

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money.

<h2>1955: the launch as a private super league</h2>

While there had been cross-border club competitions, such as the pre-war Mitropa Cup, French newspaper L'Equipe kicked off modern European club competition when it suggested the creation of a Champion Clubs' Cup.

UEFA, the governing body of European football, initially wanted nothing to do with it and were prepared to let the clubs get on with it.

Global governing body&nbsp;FIFA, however, concerned that such a competition would flourish outside its official structures, pushed UEFA to jump on the bandwagon and give its approval.&nbsp;

The European Cup started in the 1955-56 season with clubs from 15 nations and the Saarland, a French protectorate in Germany. The entries did not include a club from England, which turned its nose up at the idea and refused to enter champions Chelsea.

Only seven of the 16 club were reigning national champions.&nbsp;

Some, such as Dutch champions Holland Sport and Scottish champions Aberdeen refused to take part and were replaced by other clubs from their leagues.&nbsp;

In some countries, the national champions were passed over in favour of more famous or better-connected clubs.

The following year, UEFA required each country to send its national champion.

The Champions Cup was quickly joined by the Intercity Fairs Cup, in which cities at first entered combined teams. It became the first European competition with more entries for the big countries as it evolved into the UEFA Cup and then the Europa League.

The Cup Winners Cup was founded in 1960 and lasted until 1999.

<h2>1991: More matches</h2>

The big clubs first got their way in the early 1990s.

For 1991-1992, UEFA agreed to introduce group stages to guarantee more matches.

In that season, after two knockout rounds, the last eight competed in two groups of four, with the winners, Barcelona and Sampdoria, qualifying for the final.

The following season, the competition was rebranded the Champions League.

From 1994-1995, the group stage was moved to the beginning of the tournament.

<h2>1997: More clubs</h2>

The big clubs scored a second victory in 1997 when runners up from nine of the biggest leagues were allowed to enter.

In 1999, up to four clubs were allowed from each country - in the first season Italy, Germany and Spain were the beneficiaries - and a second group phase was introduced for the round of 16.

That increased the number of matches and, therefore, revenue. It also reduced the risk of giant-killing upsets, but the predictability and meaningless matches late in the group stages also drained much of the drama.

The second group phase was abandoned in the 2002-2003 season but the first group phase was kept to weed out the real minnows&nbsp;while guaranteeing qualifiers at least six games.

<h2>2020: The 'Super' League</h2>

Despite the tremendous popularity of the competition, the big clubs forever want more.

Their solution is a closed or semi-closed European league, the 'Super League'.

The powerful European Club Association, dominated by the biggest clubs, was the first to brandish the threat.

That pressure prompted UEFA to come up with the proposed Champions League reform this week, with an initial phase of 36 clubs each playing 10 matches against different opponents.

While the majority of the ECA's 200 or so member and associate clubs are happy with the plan, 12, six from England and three each from Spain and Italy, have threatened to secede.

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money.

From the creation of the first continental club cups in the 1950s to the announcement of a private Super League, European football has been torn between its traditions and the big clubs' desire for more money. 1955: the launch as a private super league While there had been cross-border club competitions, such as the pre-war Mitropa Cup, French newspaper L'Equipe kicked off modern European club competition when it suggested the creation of a Champion Clubs' Cup. UEFA, the governing body of European football, initially wanted nothing to do with it and were prepared to let the clubs get on with it. Global governing body FIFA, however, concerned that such a competition would flourish outside its official structures, pushed UEFA to jump on the bandwagon and give its approval. The European Cup started in the 1955-56 season with clubs from 15 nations and the Saarland, a French protectorate in Germany. The entries did not include a club from England, which turned its nose up at the idea and refused to enter champions Chelsea. Only seven of the 16 club were reigning national champions. Some, such as Dutch champions Holland Sport and Scottish champions Aberdeen refused to take part and were replaced by other clubs from their leagues. In some countries, the national champions were passed over in favour of more famous or better-connected clubs. The following year, UEFA required each country to send its national champion. The Champions Cup was quickly joined by the Intercity Fairs Cup, in which cities at first entered combined teams. It became the first European competition with more entries for the big countries as it evolved into the UEFA Cup and then the Europa League. The Cup Winners Cup was founded in 1960 and lasted until 1999. 1991: More matches The big clubs first got their way in the early 1990s. For 1991-1992, UEFA agreed to introduce group stages to guarantee more matches. In that season, after two knockout rounds, the last eight competed in two groups of four, with the winners, Barcelona and Sampdoria, qualifying for the final. The following season, the competition was rebranded the Champions League. From 1994-1995, the group stage was moved to the beginning of the tournament. 1997: More clubs The big clubs scored a second victory in 1997 when runners up from nine of the biggest leagues were allowed to enter. In 1999, up to four clubs were allowed from each country - in the first season Italy, Germany and Spain were the beneficiaries - and a second group phase was introduced for the round of 16. That increased the number of matches and, therefore, revenue. It also reduced the risk of giant-killing upsets, but the predictability and meaningless matches late in the group stages also drained much of the drama. The second group phase was abandoned in the 2002-2003 season but the first group phase was kept to weed out the real minnows while guaranteeing qualifiers at least six games. 2020: The 'Super' League Despite the tremendous popularity of the competition, the big clubs forever want more. Their solution is a closed or semi-closed European league, the 'Super League'. The powerful European Club Association, dominated by the biggest clubs, was the first to brandish the threat. That pressure prompted UEFA to come up with the proposed Champions League reform this week, with an initial phase of 36 clubs each playing 10 matches against different opponents. While the majority of the ECA's 200 or so member and associate clubs are happy with the plan, 12, six from England and three each from Spain and Italy, have threatened to secede.

In the Champions League, the elite have always battled the rest

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

"The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA.

"There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said.

Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed.

"We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters.

The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League.

Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday. "The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA. "There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said. Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed. "We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters. The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League. Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man City could face Champions League semi-final ban: UEFA official

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024. As a part of wholescale changes into the UCL, the European competition will consist of 36 instead of the current total of 32.<o:p></o:p>

The development comes after 12 elite football clubs formed a Super League with three more clubs expected to join as co-founders in what will be a 20-team league format tournament among the top European clubs. The move has created an ugly storm on social media as football fans continue to express their outrage on the matter.<o:p></o:p>

The new format -- which will see all 36 clubs brought together into one pool instead of the current system of four-team groups -- was approved at an executive committee meeting of European football's governing body in Switzerland.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-players-will-be-banned-from-champions-league-fifa-world-cup-uefa-president-378643" hreflang="en">European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president</a>

Even the new reforms by UEFA for the Champions League have been criticised as it promises new spots for elite clubs who fail to qualify for the UCL.<o:p></o:p>

In an open letter to Agnelli, who recently stepped down as chairman of European Club Association (ECA), fans' groups from several clubs which are represented on the association's board, said: "Your plans to restructure the Champions League by increasing the number of games, introducing qualification based on past achievements, and monopolising commercial rights present a serious threat to the entire game."<o:p></o:p>

Even UEFA president lashed out at Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli: “I have never seen a person lie so many times and as persistently as he did. I spoke with him on Saturday afternoon and he said it is all lies.<o:p></o:p>

"Greed allows all human values to evaporate."<o:p></o:p>

UEFA Champions League 'Swiss model' format - Explained

Under the fresh reforms, new spots will be available for elite clubs that failed to qualify for the tournament. The best eight teams will reach the knockout stages of the tournament while other teams will be able to qualify via a new round of play-off matches.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, every club has been guaranteed as many as 10 matches – which could be a welcome boost to their revenue.<o:p></o:p>

The biggest change in the Champions League format will be the creation of one league instead of many groups.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-explained-what-is-the-format-and-purpose-behind-it-all-you-need-to-know-378604" hreflang="en">European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know</a>

Interestingly, the European Super League poses a direct threat to the continuation of the Champions League.&nbsp;However, in a statement, the ESL said: "Going forward, the Founding Clubs [of the ESL] look forward to holding discussions with UEFA and FIFA to work together in partnership to deliver the best outcomes for the new League and for football as a whole."<o:p></o:p>

The head of UEFA Aleksander Ceferin said it was "a spit in the face of all football lovers" and reaffirmed that players from clubs involved would be banned from representing their national teams and therefore unable to take part in European Championships or World Cups.<o:p></o:p>

A plan for a breakaway Super League, launched by 12 leading European clubs, is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed", UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024.

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024. As a part of wholescale changes into the UCL, the European competition will consist of 36 instead of the current total of 32. The development comes after 12 elite football clubs formed a Super League with three more clubs expected to join as co-founders in what will be a 20-team league format tournament among the top European clubs. The move has created an ugly storm on social media as football fans continue to express their outrage on the matter. The new format -- which will see all 36 clubs brought together into one pool instead of the current system of four-team groups -- was approved at an executive committee meeting of European football's governing body in Switzerland. ALSO READ: European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president Even the new reforms by UEFA for the Champions League have been criticised as it promises new spots for elite clubs who fail to qualify for the UCL. In an open letter to Agnelli, who recently stepped down as chairman of European Club Association (ECA), fans' groups from several clubs which are represented on the association's board, said: "Your plans to restructure the Champions League by increasing the number of games, introducing qualification based on past achievements, and monopolising commercial rights present a serious threat to the entire game." Even UEFA president lashed out at Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli: “I have never seen a person lie so many times and as persistently as he did. I spoke with him on Saturday afternoon and he said it is all lies. "Greed allows all human values to evaporate." UEFA Champions League 'Swiss model' format - Explained Under the fresh reforms, new spots will be available for elite clubs that failed to qualify for the tournament. The best eight teams will reach the knockout stages of the tournament while other teams will be able to qualify via a new round of play-off matches. Notably, every club has been guaranteed as many as 10 matches – which could be a welcome boost to their revenue. The biggest change in the Champions League format will be the creation of one league instead of many groups. ALSO READ: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know Interestingly, the European Super League poses a direct threat to the continuation of the Champions League. However, in a statement, the ESL said: "Going forward, the Founding Clubs [of the ESL] look forward to holding discussions with UEFA and FIFA to work together in partnership to deliver the best outcomes for the new League and for football as a whole." The head of UEFA Aleksander Ceferin said it was "a spit in the face of all football lovers" and reaffirmed that players from clubs involved would be banned from representing their national teams and therefore unable to take part in European Championships or World Cups. A plan for a breakaway Super League, launched by 12 leading European clubs, is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed", UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said on Monday.

UEFA confirms 'Swiss model' Champions League format from 2024 - Here's everything you need to know

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020.

Plans to reform Europe's elite club competition from 2024 onwards were initially set to be approved last month before being put on hold after the powerful European Club Association (ECA) said it was "not yet in a position to formally endorse key changes".

According to sources close to the negotiations, certain leading clubs wanted greater control of UEFA Club Competitions (UCC), the subsidiary company which advises UEFA itself on commercial matters.

Amid talk of an attempted power grab by certain clubs, and with the spectre of a breakaway Super League possibly involving several of those clubs still hanging in the air, the hope is that a solution has been found.

UEFA confirmed on Friday that the reforms were at the top of the agenda for the meeting in the Swiss town of Montreux, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva.

The Champions League group stage is set to be completely overhauled, with an increase from 32 to 36 participants and the introduction of a so-called 'Swiss system' inspired by chess, with clubs playing 10 group games instead of the current six, all against different opponents.

While the broader outline of the reforms has been an open secret for some time, discussions have been ongoing about several details, including who the four extra places would go to.

France, as Europe's fifth-ranked nation, is expected to get a third guaranteed spot in the group phase, while more places could be given on the back of historical performances -- using UEFA's club coefficient.

That would benefit clubs who have enjoyed success in the past but who failed to qualify via their league position -- think clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, currently underperforming in the Premier League, or Borussia Dortmund in Germany, who as it stands may all miss out on next season's Champions League.

The ultimate goal of the reforms is to increase broadcast rights for the competition to satisfy cash-hungry leading European clubs and end the threat of a breakaway Super League.

At the same time UEFA's need to finalise plans for Euro 2020 is pressing.

<h2>- Doubts over Munich, Bilbao and Dublin -</h2>

Postponed by a year due to the pandemic, the European Championship is set to start in Rome on June 11 and is supposed to be played at 12 different venues spread across the continent, a controversial arrangement even before the pandemic brought about widespread travel restrictions.

The Italian capital was only confirmed as a host city last Wednesday when local authorities confirmed spectators would be allowed in up to 25 percent of the capacity of the 68,000-seat Stadio Olimpico.

It joins eight other cities -- Saint-Petersburg, Baku, Budapest, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Glasgow and London -- in being confirmed, although the number of fans allowed into stadiums will vary from one venue to the other.

However, uncertainty remains over the three other host cities.

Munich, Bilbao and Dublin were all given until Monday to provide UEFA with additional information on their plans for spectators.

UEFA could yet take matches due to be played there and relocate them to other existing host cities, although the president of the Spanish Football Federation has said he will do "everything humanly possible" to ensure Spain keeps its four scheduled Euro games.

If UEFA decide that Bilbao, in the Basque Country, cannot host matches, Luis Rubiales has suggested Seville could be an alternative option.

"It is true that there are serious difficulties in Bilbao and with this in mind, it is UEFA who has to decide," he said.

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020.

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020. Plans to reform Europe's elite club competition from 2024 onwards were initially set to be approved last month before being put on hold after the powerful European Club Association (ECA) said it was "not yet in a position to formally endorse key changes". According to sources close to the negotiations, certain leading clubs wanted greater control of UEFA Club Competitions (UCC), the subsidiary company which advises UEFA itself on commercial matters. Amid talk of an attempted power grab by certain clubs, and with the spectre of a breakaway Super League possibly involving several of those clubs still hanging in the air, the hope is that a solution has been found. UEFA confirmed on Friday that the reforms were at the top of the agenda for the meeting in the Swiss town of Montreux, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. The Champions League group stage is set to be completely overhauled, with an increase from 32 to 36 participants and the introduction of a so-called 'Swiss system' inspired by chess, with clubs playing 10 group games instead of the current six, all against different opponents. While the broader outline of the reforms has been an open secret for some time, discussions have been ongoing about several details, including who the four extra places would go to. France, as Europe's fifth-ranked nation, is expected to get a third guaranteed spot in the group phase, while more places could be given on the back of historical performances -- using UEFA's club coefficient. That would benefit clubs who have enjoyed success in the past but who failed to qualify via their league position -- think clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, currently underperforming in the Premier League, or Borussia Dortmund in Germany, who as it stands may all miss out on next season's Champions League. The ultimate goal of the reforms is to increase broadcast rights for the competition to satisfy cash-hungry leading European clubs and end the threat of a breakaway Super League. At the same time UEFA's need to finalise plans for Euro 2020 is pressing. - Doubts over Munich, Bilbao and Dublin - Postponed by a year due to the pandemic, the European Championship is set to start in Rome on June 11 and is supposed to be played at 12 different venues spread across the continent, a controversial arrangement even before the pandemic brought about widespread travel restrictions. The Italian capital was only confirmed as a host city last Wednesday when local authorities confirmed spectators would be allowed in up to 25 percent of the capacity of the 68,000-seat Stadio Olimpico. It joins eight other cities -- Saint-Petersburg, Baku, Budapest, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Glasgow and London -- in being confirmed, although the number of fans allowed into stadiums will vary from one venue to the other. However, uncertainty remains over the three other host cities. Munich, Bilbao and Dublin were all given until Monday to provide UEFA with additional information on their plans for spectators. UEFA could yet take matches due to be played there and relocate them to other existing host cities, although the president of the Spanish Football Federation has said he will do "everything humanly possible" to ensure Spain keeps its four scheduled Euro games. If UEFA decide that Bilbao, in the Basque Country, cannot host matches, Luis Rubiales has suggested Seville could be an alternative option. "It is true that there are serious difficulties in Bilbao and with this in mind, it is UEFA who has to decide," he said.

UEFA set to announce Champions League reforms and decide on Euro 2020 hosts

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw.

"It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off."

Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry.

"It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer.

"Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult.

"But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all."

Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

"We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw. "It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off." Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry. "It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer. "Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult. "But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all." Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table. "We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Neuer blames first-leg loss for Bayern's Champions League exit

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon.

It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side.

But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund.

Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties.

They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019.

There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss.

This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half.

"This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago.

<h2>- 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave -</h2>

The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg.

That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade.

In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase.

"We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out.

Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon.

PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining.

Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions.

The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid.

"Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport.

"We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy. Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon. It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side. But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund. Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties. They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019. There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half. "This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago. - 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave - The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg. That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade. In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase. "We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out. Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon. PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining. Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions. The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid. "Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport. "We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

PSG show their mettle with biggest Champions League scalp

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville.

Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg.

They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time.

That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit.

Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap.

Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad.

Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable.

"Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said.

"We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step.

"You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement."

Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea.

They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail.

"Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow.&nbsp;You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said.

"We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming."

<h2>- 'Incredible' Kante -</h2>

Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players.

"Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence."

Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players.

Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash.

Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches.

"Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency."

Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area.

But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide.

Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball.

Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg. Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville. Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg. They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time. That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit. Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap. Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad. Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable. "Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said. "We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step. "You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement." Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea. They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail. "Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow. You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said. "We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming." - 'Incredible' Kante - Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players. "Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence." Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players. Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash. Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches. "Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency." Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area. But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide. Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball. Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Chelsea enters Champions League semis for first time since 2014

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.

Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City.

Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell.

Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training.

Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury.

Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause.

"It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday.

"He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round."

Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons.&nbsp;

Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer.

Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022.

"As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland.

"I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out.

Borussia Dortmund are waiting on the fitness of Marco Reus and Mats Hummels for their Champions League quarter-final, home leg against Manchester City on Wednesday with England winger Jadon Sancho definitely ruled out. Dortmund need to overturn last week's 2-1 first-leg defeat in Manchester when Reus equalised for the Germans before Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner for City. Reus limped out of Saturday's 3-2 win at Stuttgart, after the attacking midfielder scored for the second match in a row, while centre-back Hummels did not come out for the second half after feeling unwell. Dortmund coach Edin Terzic said a decision on the pair will be made after seeing how they react in training. Terzic confirmed the second leg has come too soon for Sancho who is working his way back to fitness from a leg injury. Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji stressed the importance of Reus to the German club's cause. "It would be a big loss, he is our captain and played very well recently, scoring two goals," Akanji said Tuesday. "He knows what it takes to make it through to the next round." Terzic said Dortmund need "a mix of courage and patience" against City, who are bidding to reach the semi-finals after exiting in the quarters in each of the last four seasons. Rumours persist that Dortmund could lose 20-year-old striker Erling Braut Haaland to a big-money offer this summer. Dortmund have made it clear they do not want to sell Haaland, who reportedly has a release clause in his contract for 75 million euros ($89 million) from 2022. "As a coach, it's my job to get the best out of him, not to put a price tag on him," Terzic replied when asked what it would cost to keep Haaland. "I have to get the best out of the team and want to advance to the next round."

Dortmund wait on Reus, Hummels with Sancho to miss City clash

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

If the English champions are to reach the semi-finals for the third time in four years, they will instead need their manager Jurgen Klopp to conjure the motivation and tactical masterplan to once again eliminate one of Spanish football's giants.

Klopp has earned near God-like status on Merseyside for delivering a sixth European Cup and a first league title for 30 years to Liverpool.

But the charismatic German has been unable to halt the Reds' fall from grace this season.

With seven games to play in the Premier League, it is already mathematically impossible for Liverpool to retain their title as they lie 22 points adrift of Manchester City in fifth.

Hopes the Champions League could prove the salvation of a disappointing season were also dashed as Real ran riot in the first 45 minutes in Madrid last week to open up a commanding first-leg lead.

Liverpool's deficit is not as steep as when Barcelona visited two years ago in the semi-finals in what turned out to be arguably the greatest of all the memorable European nights at Anfield.

Depleted by injuries, Klopp's men still rolled over Barca's stellar cast of star names 4-0 on their way to winning the trophy.

But Klopp hinted that the task may be even greater now in front of the sterile atmosphere of an empty stadium due to coronavirus restrictions.

"If you want to have some emotional memories, then you watch the Barcelona game back and 80 percent of this game was the atmosphere in the stadium, so yes, we have to do it without that," said Klopp after the first leg.

<h2>- Klopp's Kop collapse -</h2>

Liverpool can claim to have suffered more than most from an entire season behind closed doors.

Prior to January, they were unbeaten in 68 home Premier League games. That club-record run was followed by a less treasured one as for the first time Liverpool then lost six consecutive games at Anfield.

A late winner to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Saturday snapped that streak, but only served to reinforce that Liverpool are not the force of the past two seasons.

On top of empty stadiums, injuries have also played a major role. Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip will again be missing for the visit of Madrid, while Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota's first season at the club has been disrupted by lengthy layoffs.

Yet, Klopp has to also take his share of the blame for some of his side's failings. The decision to drop Thiago in favour of Naby Keita, in just his second start since December, for the first leg last week backfired big time.

Keita was substituted for the Spanish international after just 42 minutes with Liverpool 2-0 down and chasing the shadows of Madrid's midfield trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

The decision to shunt Fabinho into central defence to cover for the loss of three centre-backs to season-ending injuries for much of the campaign also served to destabilise two areas of the field rather than one.

Thiago and Fabinho are expected to be paired together on Wednesday to try and wrestle control from Madrid's talented triumvirate, but Klopp also has a big decision to make up front.

His patience with the poor form of Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino has finally ran out as each has been benched for one of the past two games.

With Liverpool in need of goals, whoever Klopp puts his faith in alongside Jota and Mohamed Salah in attack needs to be clinical if their manager is to rediscover his midas touch.

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

In need of another famous Champions League fightback, Liverpool cannot rely on a wave of passion, colour and noise from the stands at Anfield to inspire a comeback from 3-1 down against Real Madrid on Wednesday. If the English champions are to reach the semi-finals for the third time in four years, they will instead need their manager Jurgen Klopp to conjure the motivation and tactical masterplan to once again eliminate one of Spanish football's giants. Klopp has earned near God-like status on Merseyside for delivering a sixth European Cup and a first league title for 30 years to Liverpool. But the charismatic German has been unable to halt the Reds' fall from grace this season. With seven games to play in the Premier League, it is already mathematically impossible for Liverpool to retain their title as they lie 22 points adrift of Manchester City in fifth. Hopes the Champions League could prove the salvation of a disappointing season were also dashed as Real ran riot in the first 45 minutes in Madrid last week to open up a commanding first-leg lead. Liverpool's deficit is not as steep as when Barcelona visited two years ago in the semi-finals in what turned out to be arguably the greatest of all the memorable European nights at Anfield. Depleted by injuries, Klopp's men still rolled over Barca's stellar cast of star names 4-0 on their way to winning the trophy. But Klopp hinted that the task may be even greater now in front of the sterile atmosphere of an empty stadium due to coronavirus restrictions. "If you want to have some emotional memories, then you watch the Barcelona game back and 80 percent of this game was the atmosphere in the stadium, so yes, we have to do it without that," said Klopp after the first leg. - Klopp's Kop collapse - Liverpool can claim to have suffered more than most from an entire season behind closed doors. Prior to January, they were unbeaten in 68 home Premier League games. That club-record run was followed by a less treasured one as for the first time Liverpool then lost six consecutive games at Anfield. A late winner to beat Aston Villa 2-1 on Saturday snapped that streak, but only served to reinforce that Liverpool are not the force of the past two seasons. On top of empty stadiums, injuries have also played a major role. Virgil van Dijk, Jordan Henderson, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip will again be missing for the visit of Madrid, while Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota's first season at the club has been disrupted by lengthy layoffs. Yet, Klopp has to also take his share of the blame for some of his side's failings. The decision to drop Thiago in favour of Naby Keita, in just his second start since December, for the first leg last week backfired big time. Keita was substituted for the Spanish international after just 42 minutes with Liverpool 2-0 down and chasing the shadows of Madrid's midfield trio of Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. The decision to shunt Fabinho into central defence to cover for the loss of three centre-backs to season-ending injuries for much of the campaign also served to destabilise two areas of the field rather than one. Thiago and Fabinho are expected to be paired together on Wednesday to try and wrestle control from Madrid's talented triumvirate, but Klopp also has a big decision to make up front. His patience with the poor form of Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino has finally ran out as each has been benched for one of the past two games. With Liverpool in need of goals, whoever Klopp puts his faith in alongside Jota and Mohamed Salah in attack needs to be clinical if their manager is to rediscover his midas touch.

Liverpool need Klopp to rediscover magic touch for Real Madrid rescue act

"Win everything," said Kevin De Bruyne when asked of his ambitions for Manchester City after signing a new four-year contract to reportedly become the Premier League's highest paid player last week.

With less than two months of the season to play, City are still on course for a historic quadruple of Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.

Just breaking through the barrier of the Champions League quarter-finals would be a landmark for Pep Guardiola as he tries to reach the last four for the first time in five years in Manchester on Wednesday.

City travel to Borussia Dortmund holding a slender 2-1 lead and bearing plenty of scars from quarter-final ties over the past three years.

"Different year, same stuff," was how a disappointed De Bruyne summed up a 3-1 defeat by Lyon in Lisbon last season.

Defensive mistakes, missed chances and VAR controversy also combined to deny Guardiola's men as they bowed out to Liverpool and Tottenham in contrasting fashion in 2018 and 2019.

Despite the explosive talent of Erling Braut Haaland, a Dortmund side sitting fifth in the Bundesliga should not pose a problem for the runaway Premier League leaders.

But De Bruyne has lived through too many City horror shows in Europe's premier club competition to take anything for granted.

The Champions League is the one trophy to have so far eluded the Belgian since he arrived in England in 2015.

A determination to end City's wait to conquer Europe was key to both the player and club's motivations for agreeing a new contract worth a reported £20 million ($27 million) a year.

<h2>- No agent -</h2>

De Bruyne showed he is no ordinary player off the pitch as well as on it during the negotiations.

The 29-year-old did not use an agent and instead worked with analytics companies to show the data that backed up his claim to be the key figure in City's success.

CEO of Analytics FC, Jeremy Steele, told The Athletic: "After discussing the scope of the work, De Bruyne commissioned us to create a report studying almost every aspect of his contribution to the club."

Among the data crunched was how drastically City's chances of winning the Champions League for the first time would be reduced should they lose De Bruyne.

Guardiola's men got a sense of what life without him might be like as they slumped to just a fourth defeat in 49 games this season to Leeds on Saturday.

Even with City trailing against 10-men, Guardiola kept his midfield maestro on the bench for the full 90 minutes in a clear signal of intent that his priority lies in Dortmund this week.

Two seasons ago, City became the first side to ever win the English domestic treble of Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.

Yet, even replicating that incredible feat would now feel like a let down if they crumble again under the pressure when all of Europe is watching.

Guardiola admitted his side did feel the weight of expectancy in the first leg as they needed Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner to take even a one-goal lead to Germany.

But this is the first time City have had a quarter-final, first leg lead to defend under Guardiola.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss has managed the entire season with this month in mind.

The base for City's success has been built on a solid defence rather than a prolific attack. Marco Reus's away goal at the Etihad was the first Guardiola's men had conceded in over 800 minutes in the Champions League.

Should they score on Wednesday, Dortmund will need three to progress without the need for penalties, which no side has managed against City since Leicester tore a makeshift defence to shreds in September.

Guardiola has also made the most of the vast resources at his disposal. For the first time in months, the seven changes he made for the visit of Leeds backfired to delay City's coronation as English champions for a third time in four seasons.

But that will be a small price to pay if a refreshed De Bruyne inspires his side to take another big step to realising his ambition of total domination.

"Win everything," said Kevin De Bruyne when asked of his ambitions for Manchester City after signing a new four-year contract to reportedly become the Premier League's highest paid player last week.

"Win everything," said Kevin De Bruyne when asked of his ambitions for Manchester City after signing a new four-year contract to reportedly become the Premier League's highest paid player last week. With less than two months of the season to play, City are still on course for a historic quadruple of Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. Just breaking through the barrier of the Champions League quarter-finals would be a landmark for Pep Guardiola as he tries to reach the last four for the first time in five years in Manchester on Wednesday. City travel to Borussia Dortmund holding a slender 2-1 lead and bearing plenty of scars from quarter-final ties over the past three years. "Different year, same stuff," was how a disappointed De Bruyne summed up a 3-1 defeat by Lyon in Lisbon last season. Defensive mistakes, missed chances and VAR controversy also combined to deny Guardiola's men as they bowed out to Liverpool and Tottenham in contrasting fashion in 2018 and 2019. Despite the explosive talent of Erling Braut Haaland, a Dortmund side sitting fifth in the Bundesliga should not pose a problem for the runaway Premier League leaders. But De Bruyne has lived through too many City horror shows in Europe's premier club competition to take anything for granted. The Champions League is the one trophy to have so far eluded the Belgian since he arrived in England in 2015. A determination to end City's wait to conquer Europe was key to both the player and club's motivations for agreeing a new contract worth a reported £20 million ($27 million) a year. - No agent - De Bruyne showed he is no ordinary player off the pitch as well as on it during the negotiations. The 29-year-old did not use an agent and instead worked with analytics companies to show the data that backed up his claim to be the key figure in City's success. CEO of Analytics FC, Jeremy Steele, told The Athletic: "After discussing the scope of the work, De Bruyne commissioned us to create a report studying almost every aspect of his contribution to the club." Among the data crunched was how drastically City's chances of winning the Champions League for the first time would be reduced should they lose De Bruyne. Guardiola's men got a sense of what life without him might be like as they slumped to just a fourth defeat in 49 games this season to Leeds on Saturday. Even with City trailing against 10-men, Guardiola kept his midfield maestro on the bench for the full 90 minutes in a clear signal of intent that his priority lies in Dortmund this week. Two seasons ago, City became the first side to ever win the English domestic treble of Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. Yet, even replicating that incredible feat would now feel like a let down if they crumble again under the pressure when all of Europe is watching. Guardiola admitted his side did feel the weight of expectancy in the first leg as they needed Phil Foden's 90th-minute winner to take even a one-goal lead to Germany. But this is the first time City have had a quarter-final, first leg lead to defend under Guardiola. The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss has managed the entire season with this month in mind. The base for City's success has been built on a solid defence rather than a prolific attack. Marco Reus's away goal at the Etihad was the first Guardiola's men had conceded in over 800 minutes in the Champions League. Should they score on Wednesday, Dortmund will need three to progress without the need for penalties, which no side has managed against City since Leicester tore a makeshift defence to shreds in September. Guardiola has also made the most of the vast resources at his disposal. For the first time in months, the seven changes he made for the visit of Leeds backfired to delay City's coronation as English champions for a third time in four seasons. But that will be a small price to pay if a refreshed De Bruyne inspires his side to take another big step to realising his ambition of total domination.

Data-driven De Bruyne key to breaking Man City's Champions League complex

A classy goal from Mason Mount on Wednesday helped&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;to a 2-0 first-leg win over Porto, whose wasteful finishing could have scuppered their hopes of springing another Champions League upset in the quarter-finals.

Mount's slick turn and shot in the first half would have been painful enough for Porto, who were the better side for large spells in Seville but repeatedly lacked the precision to take advantage.

Instead, their misery was compounded by Ben Chilwell capitalising on a mistake at the back to score a late second that gave&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;another away goal and leaves them on the brink of the semi-finals.

They were away goals only in name given both these teams were playing in the unfamiliar Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, where they will meet again next week, just with the home and away roles reversed.

Porto were in the home dug-out, wore their home kit, had a large club banner in the empty stand and their anthem was the one that played out before kick-off.

Chelsea&nbsp;played the part too, delivering a classic away performance of soaking up the pressure and hitting their opponents on the counter-attack, their quality in the final third proving decisive.

Real Madrid could lie in wait for the victors, after they beat Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday.

"There is a good atmosphere in the dressing room, we are happy but not too happy, excited but not too excited," said&nbsp;Chelsea's coach Thomas Tuchel. "We have to have a top mentality and a top performance next Tuesday."

Mount's goal makes him&nbsp;Chelsea's youngest ever scorer in the Champions League at 22 years and 87 days old while Chilwell's second meant the club boasted two English scorers in a Champions League game for the first time since 2012.

Chelsea's win also goes some way to easing the shock of Saturday's 5-2 loss at home to West Brom in the Premier League, which ended Tuchel's 14-match unbeaten start as coach.

"After losing such a strange game we said the best situation would be to produce a clean sheet straight away and this makes it very precious, this result," Tuchel said.

Tuchel decided Thiago Silva's 29 minutes before being sent off in that game were not enough to hone his sharpness, meaning Andreas Christensen was picked in the back three.

And Antonio Rudiger also returned, despite his training ground scuffle with Kepa Arrizabalaga on Sunday, which Tuchel described as a "serious situation".

Porto were regarded as the plum draw, despite seeing off Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus in the last 16, their task made harder this time by the suspensions of Mehdi Taremi and top scorer Sergio Oliveira.

But they were the aggressors from the outset, with&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;surrendering the ball and the chances.

Porto had six shots to&nbsp;Chelsea's one before half-time, with Mateus Uribe grazing the top of the net with an early volley and the excellent Otavio almost catching Edouard Mendy out with a corner, Zaidu Sanusi smashing over the rebound.

Chelsea, though, showed them what ruthlessness looked like when Jorginho fired a pass into Mount on the edge of the area inside the right channel. Mount took it on his back foot and twisted away from the sliding Zaidu, before firing a cool finish into the far corner.

Porto kept coming in the second half and kept missing too. Moussa Marega snuck in but his shot was saved by the feet of Mendy before Jesus Corona feathered Luis Diaz through but he took too long. Diaz curled wide after a good run by Wilson Manafa.

Chelsea&nbsp;absorbed them and then hit them with a final sucker-punch, Mateo Kovacic's ball over the top miscontrolled by Corona, allowing Chilwell to steam clear, round the goalkeeper and finish.

A classy goal from Mason Mount on Wednesday helped Chelsea to a 2-0 first-leg win over Porto, whose wasteful finishing could have scuppered their hopes of springing another Champions League upset in the quarter-finals.

A classy goal from Mason Mount on Wednesday helped Chelsea to a 2-0 first-leg win over Porto, whose wasteful finishing could have scuppered their hopes of springing another Champions League upset in the quarter-finals. Mount's slick turn and shot in the first half would have been painful enough for Porto, who were the better side for large spells in Seville but repeatedly lacked the precision to take advantage. Instead, their misery was compounded by Ben Chilwell capitalising on a mistake at the back to score a late second that gave Chelsea another away goal and leaves them on the brink of the semi-finals. They were away goals only in name given both these teams were playing in the unfamiliar Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, where they will meet again next week, just with the home and away roles reversed. Porto were in the home dug-out, wore their home kit, had a large club banner in the empty stand and their anthem was the one that played out before kick-off. Chelsea played the part too, delivering a classic away performance of soaking up the pressure and hitting their opponents on the counter-attack, their quality in the final third proving decisive. Real Madrid could lie in wait for the victors, after they beat Liverpool 3-1 on Tuesday. "There is a good atmosphere in the dressing room, we are happy but not too happy, excited but not too excited," said Chelsea's coach Thomas Tuchel. "We have to have a top mentality and a top performance next Tuesday." Mount's goal makes him Chelsea's youngest ever scorer in the Champions League at 22 years and 87 days old while Chilwell's second meant the club boasted two English scorers in a Champions League game for the first time since 2012. Chelsea's win also goes some way to easing the shock of Saturday's 5-2 loss at home to West Brom in the Premier League, which ended Tuchel's 14-match unbeaten start as coach. "After losing such a strange game we said the best situation would be to produce a clean sheet straight away and this makes it very precious, this result," Tuchel said. Tuchel decided Thiago Silva's 29 minutes before being sent off in that game were not enough to hone his sharpness, meaning Andreas Christensen was picked in the back three. And Antonio Rudiger also returned, despite his training ground scuffle with Kepa Arrizabalaga on Sunday, which Tuchel described as a "serious situation". Porto were regarded as the plum draw, despite seeing off Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus in the last 16, their task made harder this time by the suspensions of Mehdi Taremi and top scorer Sergio Oliveira. But they were the aggressors from the outset, with Chelsea surrendering the ball and the chances. Porto had six shots to Chelsea's one before half-time, with Mateus Uribe grazing the top of the net with an early volley and the excellent Otavio almost catching Edouard Mendy out with a corner, Zaidu Sanusi smashing over the rebound. Chelsea, though, showed them what ruthlessness looked like when Jorginho fired a pass into Mount on the edge of the area inside the right channel. Mount took it on his back foot and twisted away from the sliding Zaidu, before firing a cool finish into the far corner. Porto kept coming in the second half and kept missing too. Moussa Marega snuck in but his shot was saved by the feet of Mendy before Jesus Corona feathered Luis Diaz through but he took too long. Diaz curled wide after a good run by Wilson Manafa. Chelsea absorbed them and then hit them with a final sucker-punch, Mateo Kovacic's ball over the top miscontrolled by Corona, allowing Chilwell to steam clear, round the goalkeeper and finish.

Chelsea punish wasteful Porto to put one foot in Champions League semis

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City "felt the pressure" of expectancy in the Champions League as they needed Phil Foden's 90th minute winner to take a slender 2-1 lead from the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.

City have now won 27 of their last 28 games in all competitions to remain on course for a historic quadruple of Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.

But they have failed to get beyond the last eight in the Champions League in each of the Guardiola's four previous seasons in charge.

"We felt the pressure today, in this competition, at home, not knowing how we would react," said Guardiola.

"It's better to win than draw but even at 1-1 we had 90 minutes to do it."

The sides will meet again in Germany on April 14 with the winners facing Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the last four.

Dortmund are at serious risk of missing out on the Champions League next season after slipping seven points adrift of the top four in the Bundesliga.

However, the visitors started brightly until Emre Can gifted the ball away to Riyad Mahrez and City launched a ruthless counter-attack.

De Bruyne, Foden and Mahrez exchanged passes before the Belgian tapped home from close range.

City thought they had a great chance to double their advantage moments later when Rodrigo went down under Can's challenge inside the area and referee Ovidiu Hategan pointed to the penalty spot.

Hategan, though, rightly overturned his call on a VAR review in the first of a number of dubious decisions from the Romanian official.

His next big call ruled out a Dortmund goal when he adjudged Jude Bellingham to have fouled Ederson as he dispossessed the Brazilian and tapped into an empty net just before half-time.

This time VAR could not intervene as Hategan had blown before Bellingham rolled the ball home.

"I definitely think I won the ball fairly," said the England international. "It's a bit frustrating at a time when they have so many cameras, they don't let me put the ball in the net and check it."

<h2>- Haaland more than a goalscorer -</h2>

Erling Haaland was the focus of much of the pre-match hype with City one of a number of clubs interested in the Norwegian wonder kid.

The 20-year-old had failed to score in just two of his previous 14 Champions League appearances, but he spurned his one big chance to net early in the second-half.

Haaland showed great strength and pace to outmuscle and outsprint Ruben Dias, but could not lift the ball over the advancing Ederson.

De Bruyne was at the heart of all of City's most dangerous moments as Foden should have done better than fire too close to Marwin Hitz with the goal gaping.

The City captain then sent a low shot inches wide before once more picking out Foden, who saw another effort beaten away by Hitz.

However, City were then hit with a sucker punch as Haaland showed he is more than just a goalscorer.

His brilliant reverse ball released Marco Reus to fire beyond Ederson in what seemed a sting in the tale six minutes from time.

But Dortmund could not hold out in the closing stages as City pushed for a winner.

De Bruyne was the creator again as his cross found Ilkay Gundogan at the back post and his cut-back was swept home by a relieved Foden.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City "felt the pressure" of expectancy in the Champions League as they needed Phil Foden's 90th minute winner to take a slender 2-1 lead from the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City "felt the pressure" of expectancy in the Champions League as they needed Phil Foden's 90th minute winner to take a slender 2-1 lead from the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday. City have now won 27 of their last 28 games in all competitions to remain on course for a historic quadruple of Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. But they have failed to get beyond the last eight in the Champions League in each of the Guardiola's four previous seasons in charge. "We felt the pressure today, in this competition, at home, not knowing how we would react," said Guardiola. "It's better to win than draw but even at 1-1 we had 90 minutes to do it." The sides will meet again in Germany on April 14 with the winners facing Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the last four. Dortmund are at serious risk of missing out on the Champions League next season after slipping seven points adrift of the top four in the Bundesliga. However, the visitors started brightly until Emre Can gifted the ball away to Riyad Mahrez and City launched a ruthless counter-attack. De Bruyne, Foden and Mahrez exchanged passes before the Belgian tapped home from close range. City thought they had a great chance to double their advantage moments later when Rodrigo went down under Can's challenge inside the area and referee Ovidiu Hategan pointed to the penalty spot. Hategan, though, rightly overturned his call on a VAR review in the first of a number of dubious decisions from the Romanian official. His next big call ruled out a Dortmund goal when he adjudged Jude Bellingham to have fouled Ederson as he dispossessed the Brazilian and tapped into an empty net just before half-time. This time VAR could not intervene as Hategan had blown before Bellingham rolled the ball home. "I definitely think I won the ball fairly," said the England international. "It's a bit frustrating at a time when they have so many cameras, they don't let me put the ball in the net and check it." - Haaland more than a goalscorer - Erling Haaland was the focus of much of the pre-match hype with City one of a number of clubs interested in the Norwegian wonder kid. The 20-year-old had failed to score in just two of his previous 14 Champions League appearances, but he spurned his one big chance to net early in the second-half. Haaland showed great strength and pace to outmuscle and outsprint Ruben Dias, but could not lift the ball over the advancing Ederson. De Bruyne was at the heart of all of City's most dangerous moments as Foden should have done better than fire too close to Marwin Hitz with the goal gaping. The City captain then sent a low shot inches wide before once more picking out Foden, who saw another effort beaten away by Hitz. However, City were then hit with a sucker punch as Haaland showed he is more than just a goalscorer. His brilliant reverse ball released Marco Reus to fire beyond Ederson in what seemed a sting in the tale six minutes from time. But Dortmund could not hold out in the closing stages as City pushed for a winner. De Bruyne was the creator again as his cross found Ilkay Gundogan at the back post and his cut-back was swept home by a relieved Foden.

Foden hands Man City late advantage against Dortmund