Germany rounded off their Nations League group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw in Hungary after a Dominik Szoboszlai penalty in the 99th minute rescued a point for the hosts, while Netherlands were held to the same scoreline by Bosnia and Hercegovina.

There was little to play for in Group A3 going into the final day. The Germans had already wrapped up top spot. The Dutch were secure in second and Hungary sat four points ahead of the already-relegated Bosnia.

"With a win, we would've gone into the break with a nicer feeling but we can still be very satisfied about what we achieved in 2024 and can kick things off again in March," said German midfielder Robert Andrich.

In Group B4, a 4-1 victory for Wales against Iceland ensured automatic promotion to the top division at the expense of Turkey, who went down 3-1 in Montenegro.

Czech Republic booked top spot in Group B1 with a 2-1 win over Georgia. Ukraine leapfrogged the Georgians into second place by downing Albania.

In Budapest, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann rang the changes with his team having confirmed top spot last week with a 7-0 thumping of Bosnia.

Felix Nmecha broke a goalless stalemate when he prodded home from inside the six-yard box with 14 minutes remaining.

Germany seemed set to close out their fifth win in six outings until the seventh minute of injury time.

VAR decided that Robin Koch had committed a handball in the box and Hungarian captain Szoboszlai stepped up two minutes later to dink home from 12 yards.

"It's been a real rollercoaster of a year, but I believe that with this match we can go into 2025 in good spirits," said Szoboszlai.

Netherlands finished five points behind their historic rivals as they were held to a draw in Zenica.

Brian Brobbey headed in the opener for Ronald Koeman's side midway through the first period but despite dominating the rest of the half the Dutch&nbsp;were unable to double their lead.

The Oranje were made to pay in the 67th minute when Hamburg-born Bosnian attacker Ermedin Demirovic adjusted his body magnificently to nod a rebound over goalkeeper Mark Flekken.

"I'm not satisfied with a point. I think we had to win," said Koeman.

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<h2>Really happy</h2>

Wales bounced back from an early Andri Gudjohnsen goal in Cardiff to put four past Iceland and jump to first place in their group.

"It's something we set out to do," Wales' Liam Cullen told Sgorio.

"We knew we couldn't control what was going on in the Turkey game, but we really wanted to put our stamp on this game and win convincingly, so really happy that we've done that."

Cullen scored a double to put the hosts in front by half-time, before Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson put the seal on the match inside the final half-hour.

Wales needed victory to have any chance of obtaining automatic promotion to League A, but they needed Montenegro's upset of Turkey to claim that spot with a one-point buffer.&nbsp;

Nikola Krstovic's hat-trick in Niksic condemned Turkey to the play-off spot as Montenegro picked up their first points of the campaign after five consecutive defeats.

Two 2-1 wins flipped Group B1 on its head after three points had separated the four teams going into the final matchday.

Ukraine were fourth before their trip to Tirana but two goals in the first 10 minutes from Oleksandr Zinchenko and Roman Yaremchuk gave them the perfect start.

Zinchenko celebrated his opener by holding up a shirt printed "1000", marking one thousand days since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

A Nedim Bajrami penalty gave Albania hope in the last quarter of an hour but the Ukrainians held on to claim second spot.

The Czechs had sat top of the group on eight points and consolidated top spot when first-half strikes by Pavel Sulc and Adam Hlozek were enough to give them a 2-1 home win over Georgia.

In League C, Sweden showcased their striking prowess with a 6-0 thumping of Azerbaijan as they emphatically topped their group.

Much-heralded 26-year-old striker Viktor Gyokeres netted four goals in the rout, with Dejan Kulusevski grabbing a brace.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Germany rounded off their Nations League group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw in Hungary after a Dominik Szoboszlai penalty in the 99th minute rescued a point for the hosts, while Netherlands were held to the same scoreline by Bosnia and Hercegovina.

Germany rounded off their Nations League group stage campaign with a 1-1 draw in Hungary after a Dominik Szoboszlai penalty in the 99th minute rescued a point for the hosts, while Netherlands were held to the same scoreline by Bosnia and Hercegovina. There was little to play for in Group A3 going into the final day. The Germans had already wrapped up top spot. The Dutch were secure in second and Hungary sat four points ahead of the already-relegated Bosnia. "With a win, we would've gone into the break with a nicer feeling but we can still be very satisfied about what we achieved in 2024 and can kick things off again in March," said German midfielder Robert Andrich. In Group B4, a 4-1 victory for Wales against Iceland ensured automatic promotion to the top division at the expense of Turkey, who went down 3-1 in Montenegro. Czech Republic booked top spot in Group B1 with a 2-1 win over Georgia. Ukraine leapfrogged the Georgians into second place by downing Albania. In Budapest, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann rang the changes with his team having confirmed top spot last week with a 7-0 thumping of Bosnia. Felix Nmecha broke a goalless stalemate when he prodded home from inside the six-yard box with 14 minutes remaining. Germany seemed set to close out their fifth win in six outings until the seventh minute of injury time. VAR decided that Robin Koch had committed a handball in the box and Hungarian captain Szoboszlai stepped up two minutes later to dink home from 12 yards. "It's been a real rollercoaster of a year, but I believe that with this match we can go into 2025 in good spirits," said Szoboszlai. Netherlands finished five points behind their historic rivals as they were held to a draw in Zenica. Brian Brobbey headed in the opener for Ronald Koeman's side midway through the first period but despite dominating the rest of the half the Dutch were unable to double their lead. The Oranje were made to pay in the 67th minute when Hamburg-born Bosnian attacker Ermedin Demirovic adjusted his body magnificently to nod a rebound over goalkeeper Mark Flekken. "I'm not satisfied with a point. I think we had to win," said Koeman. ALSO READ | Japan move closer to FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification with crushing win over China Really happy Wales bounced back from an early Andri Gudjohnsen goal in Cardiff to put four past Iceland and jump to first place in their group. "It's something we set out to do," Wales' Liam Cullen told Sgorio. "We knew we couldn't control what was going on in the Turkey game, but we really wanted to put our stamp on this game and win convincingly, so really happy that we've done that." Cullen scored a double to put the hosts in front by half-time, before Brennan Johnson and Harry Wilson put the seal on the match inside the final half-hour. Wales needed victory to have any chance of obtaining automatic promotion to League A, but they needed Montenegro's upset of Turkey to claim that spot with a one-point buffer. Nikola Krstovic's hat-trick in Niksic condemned Turkey to the play-off spot as Montenegro picked up their first points of the campaign after five consecutive defeats. Two 2-1 wins flipped Group B1 on its head after three points had separated the four teams going into the final matchday. Ukraine were fourth before their trip to Tirana but two goals in the first 10 minutes from Oleksandr Zinchenko and Roman Yaremchuk gave them the perfect start. Zinchenko celebrated his opener by holding up a shirt printed "1000", marking one thousand days since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A Nedim Bajrami penalty gave Albania hope in the last quarter of an hour but the Ukrainians held on to claim second spot. The Czechs had sat top of the group on eight points and consolidated top spot when first-half strikes by Pavel Sulc and Adam Hlozek were enough to give them a 2-1 home win over Georgia. In League C, Sweden showcased their striking prowess with a 6-0 thumping of Azerbaijan as they emphatically topped their group. Much-heralded 26-year-old striker Viktor Gyokeres netted four goals in the rout, with Dejan Kulusevski grabbing a brace. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nations League: Germany, Netherlands conclude group stage with draws; Wales win group B4

Before the UEFA Nations League match in Paris, pro-Palestine protests took place outside the stadium, with demonstrators voicing their opposition to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The protests highlighted the political tensions surrounding the event, as activists called for greater attention to the humanitarian crisis. Despite the demonstration, the match went ahead as scheduled, with heightened security measures in place to ensure public safety.

Scuffle Breaks Out During France-Israel Match in Paris | GRAVITAS

UEFA National League: Pro-Palestine Protests Took Place Before The Match In Paris

UEFA has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate Premier League referee David Coote after a video emerged of him allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024.

It comes after English referees body PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) said it was taking fresh allegations about Coote "very seriously".

The 42-year-old was suspended by the PGMOL on Monday after video footage appeared on social media in which he is seen making disparaging remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Coote's comments about the German are also being investigated by the Football Association.

On Wednesday, another video appeared on the Sun newspaper's website, which it said showed Coote snorting a white powder during Euro 2024 in Germany, where he was officiating.

European football's governing body, UEFA, which had already suspended Coote, has now opened an investigation into his conduct.

"A UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA disciplinary regulations by the referee Mr David Coote," it said in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-rohit-and-dravid-wasted-10-years-of-my-sons-career-claims-sanju-samsons-father-776013">MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father</a>

"Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course."

A PGMOL spokesman said on Wednesday that the organisation was aware of the second video.

"We are aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation," said a PGMOL spokesman.

"David's welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period. We are not in a position to comment further at this stage."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UEFA has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate Premier League referee David Coote after a video emerged of him allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024.

UEFA has appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to investigate Premier League referee David Coote after a video emerged of him allegedly snorting a white powder during Euro 2024. It comes after English referees body PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) said it was taking fresh allegations about Coote "very seriously". The 42-year-old was suspended by the PGMOL on Monday after video footage appeared on social media in which he is seen making disparaging remarks about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Coote's comments about the German are also being investigated by the Football Association. On Wednesday, another video appeared on the Sun newspaper's website, which it said showed Coote snorting a white powder during Euro 2024 in Germany, where he was officiating. European football's governing body, UEFA, which had already suspended Coote, has now opened an investigation into his conduct. "A UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA disciplinary regulations by the referee Mr David Coote," it said in a statement. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father "Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course." A PGMOL spokesman said on Wednesday that the organisation was aware of the second video. "We are aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation," said a PGMOL spokesman. "David's welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period. We are not in a position to comment further at this stage." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UEFA launches investigation against Premier League referee David Coote

Lionel Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick as Argentina thrashed Bolivia 6-0 in the World Cup qualifiers, meanwhile Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal were held to a goalless draw by Scotland in the UEFA Nations League.

Messi Scores Hat-trick, Ronaldo Throws A Tantrum

Israel played their first match outside the neutral venue of Hungary for the first-time amid the Israel-Palestine war. The match took place in Udine, Italy amid high security and had snipers on the roof of the stadium for protection. Italy won the match 4-1 and are on the cusp of booking a quarter-final berth in the UEFA Nations League. It was a memorable night for the Maldini family. Daniel Maldini became the third generation of his family to play for Italy after Paolo and Cesare.

Israel-Hamas War: Italy Rout Israel In A High-Security Clash

World football's governing body FIFA made no verdict either way Thursday on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel, instead launching committee investigations to inform an eventual decision.&nbsp;

At FIFA's congress in Bangkok in May, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) called for its Israeli counterpart to be suspended and for Israeli teams to be banned from FIFA events.

FIFA was initially set to hold an extraordinary session of its ruling council before July 20 to review the independent legal analysis and decide how to proceed.

However the deadline was pushed back to give legal experts more time to complete a report.

At the organisation's headquarters in Zurich on Thursday, the FIFA council adopted the recommendations and conclusions reached in the legal analysis.

It decided that its disciplinary committee would be mandated to investigate the alleged offence of discrimination raised by the PFA.

Meanwhile the FIFA governance, audit and compliance committee "will be entrusted with the mission to investigate -- and subsequently advise the FIFA Council on -- the participation in Israeli competitions of Israeli football teams allegedly based in the territory of Palestine."

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FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement: "The FIFA Council has implemented due diligence on this very sensitive matter and, based on a thorough assessment, we have followed the advice of the independent experts.

"The ongoing violence in the region confirms that, above all considerations... we need peace.

"As we remain extremely shocked by what is happening, and our thoughts are with those who are suffering, we urge all parties to restore peace to the region with immediate effect."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World football's governing body FIFA made no verdict either way Thursday on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel, instead launching committee investigations to inform an eventual decision.

World football's governing body FIFA made no verdict either way Thursday on a Palestinian request to suspend Israel, instead launching committee investigations to inform an eventual decision. At FIFA's congress in Bangkok in May, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) called for its Israeli counterpart to be suspended and for Israeli teams to be banned from FIFA events. FIFA was initially set to hold an extraordinary session of its ruling council before July 20 to review the independent legal analysis and decide how to proceed. However the deadline was pushed back to give legal experts more time to complete a report. At the organisation's headquarters in Zurich on Thursday, the FIFA council adopted the recommendations and conclusions reached in the legal analysis. It decided that its disciplinary committee would be mandated to investigate the alleged offence of discrimination raised by the PFA. Meanwhile the FIFA governance, audit and compliance committee "will be entrusted with the mission to investigate -- and subsequently advise the FIFA Council on -- the participation in Israeli competitions of Israeli football teams allegedly based in the territory of Palestine." ALSO READ | Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Hosts Bangladesh beat Scotland in opener FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement: "The FIFA Council has implemented due diligence on this very sensitive matter and, based on a thorough assessment, we have followed the advice of the independent experts. "The ongoing violence in the region confirms that, above all considerations... we need peace. "As we remain extremely shocked by what is happening, and our thoughts are with those who are suffering, we urge all parties to restore peace to the region with immediate effect." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FIFA defers decision on request to suspend Israel; instead launches committee investigations

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

"As the Municipality of Milano could not guarantee that the San Siro stadium and its surroundings would not be affected by refurbishment works in the period of the 2027 UEFA Champions League final, it was decided not to assign the final to Milan," UEFA said in a statement.

UEFA added it was reopening "the bidding process to appoint a suitable venue, with a decision expected in May/June 2025".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/just-accept-it-ravi-ashwin-on-india-pacer-jasprit-bumrah-calling-himself-fitter-than-virat-kohli-761506">'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli</a>

The 2026 final will be held in Budapest.

Budapest and Milan were the only candidates for the 2026 and 2027 finals.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

The 2027 men's Champions League final will not be played in Milan amid uncertainties over the future of the San Siro stadium, European football's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday. "As the Municipality of Milano could not guarantee that the San Siro stadium and its surroundings would not be affected by refurbishment works in the period of the 2027 UEFA Champions League final, it was decided not to assign the final to Milan," UEFA said in a statement. UEFA added it was reopening "the bidding process to appoint a suitable venue, with a decision expected in May/June 2025". ALSO READ | 'Just accept it,' Ravi Ashwin on India pacer Jasprit Bumrah calling himself fitter than Virat Kohli The 2026 final will be held in Budapest. Budapest and Milan were the only candidates for the 2026 and 2027 finals. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Milan will not host 2027 men's Champions League final, bidding process reopened, says UEFA

UEFA on Friday said Manchester City and Girona can both enter the Champions League and Manchester United and Nice can play in the Europa League after addressing multi-club ownership concerns.

Premier League champions City and Girona are both part of the City Group, while Jim Ratcliffe who owns 25 per cent of FA Cup winners United also controls Nice through his Ineos company.

UEFA said it had accepted the admission of the four clubs into next season's European competitions, after previously opening proceedings into them for potential conflict with its&nbsp;ownership rules, "following the implementation of significant changes by the concerned investors in Girona FC and OGC Nice".&nbsp;

"The clubs were able to demonstrate that such changes brought them into compliance with the multi-club ownership rule," UEFA's Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) said in a statement.

"No one is simultaneously involved, directly or indirectly, in any capacity whatsoever in the management, administration and/or sporting performance of more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition."

"No one has control or decisive influence over more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition."

"The significant changes made to the ownership, governance, and financial support of the concerned clubs, substantially restrict the investors' influence and decision-making power over more than one club."

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It said City Group, which owned a 47 percent stake in Girona, and Ineos had transferred their shares to "independent trustees through a blind trust structure established under the supervision of the CFCB First Chamber" until July 2025.&nbsp;

UEFA said that the clubs had also promised not to make any new player transfers to each other, either permanently or on loan, until September 2025 and would not cooperate commercially or on coaching or scouting.

When the stakes are returned next July, the clubs will again need to take steps to satisfy UEFA rules.&nbsp;

Last year, UEFA&nbsp;investigated three cases involving Toulouse and AC Milan, English club Aston Villa and Portuguese club Vitoria Guimaraes, and Premier League Brighton and Union Royale Saint-Gilloise of Belgium.

UEFA on Friday said Manchester City and Girona can both enter the Champions League and Manchester United and Nice can play in the Europa League after addressing multi-club ownership concerns.

UEFA on Friday said Manchester City and Girona can both enter the Champions League and Manchester United and Nice can play in the Europa League after addressing multi-club ownership concerns. Premier League champions City and Girona are both part of the City Group, while Jim Ratcliffe who owns 25 per cent of FA Cup winners United also controls Nice through his Ineos company. UEFA said it had accepted the admission of the four clubs into next season's European competitions, after previously opening proceedings into them for potential conflict with its ownership rules, "following the implementation of significant changes by the concerned investors in Girona FC and OGC Nice". "The clubs were able to demonstrate that such changes brought them into compliance with the multi-club ownership rule," UEFA's Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) said in a statement. "No one is simultaneously involved, directly or indirectly, in any capacity whatsoever in the management, administration and/or sporting performance of more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition." "No one has control or decisive influence over more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition." "The significant changes made to the ownership, governance, and financial support of the concerned clubs, substantially restrict the investors' influence and decision-making power over more than one club." ALSO READ | How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH It said City Group, which owned a 47 percent stake in Girona, and Ineos had transferred their shares to "independent trustees through a blind trust structure established under the supervision of the CFCB First Chamber" until July 2025. UEFA said that the clubs had also promised not to make any new player transfers to each other, either permanently or on loan, until September 2025 and would not cooperate commercially or on coaching or scouting. When the stakes are returned next July, the clubs will again need to take steps to satisfy UEFA rules. Last year, UEFA investigated three cases involving Toulouse and AC Milan, English club Aston Villa and Portuguese club Vitoria Guimaraes, and Premier League Brighton and Union Royale Saint-Gilloise of Belgium.

UEFA clear Manchester clubs, Nice and Girona to play in Europe club competitions

Serbia have threatened to pull out of Euro 2024, hours before their match against Slovenia, accusing Croatian and Albanian fans of chanting about the killing of Serbians. The incident took place during the Group B match in Hamburg on Wednesday (Jun 19) when both sets of fans chanted "Kill, kill, kill the Serb".&nbsp;

Jovan Surbatovic, the general secretary of the Football&nbsp; Association of Serbia, issued the threat and called upon UEFA to take strong action.&nbsp;

"What happened is scandalous and we will ask [European governing body] Uefa for sanctions, even if it means not continuing the competition," Surbatovic was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Serbian state-owned broadcaster RTS.&nbsp;

“We will demand from UEFA to punish the federations of both selections. We do not want to participate in that, but if Uefa does not punish them, we will think how will we proceed," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-denmarks-eriksen-who-suffered-cardiac-arrest-in-2021-scores-goal-after-1100-days-in-tournament-732325">Also read |&nbsp;Euro 2024: Denmark's Eriksen who suffered cardiac arrest in 2021, scores goal after 1,100 days in tournament</a>

<h2>Serbian FA fined</h2>

Surbatovic also referred to the $15,000 fine imposed on the Serbian FA after&nbsp;objects were thrown and a provocative message was displayed during Serbia's Euro 2024 defeat by England on 16 June. Notably, the Serbian fans had displayed an&nbsp;ultra-nationalist banner proclaiming Serbian dominion over Kosovo.&nbsp;

“We were punished for isolated cases and our fans behaved much better than the others. We Serbs are gentlemen and we have an open heart, so I appeal to the fans to remain gentlemen," said&nbsp;Surbatovic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-russian-ally-serbia-invade-kosovo-nato-boosts-forces-amid-escalating-tensions-641878">Watch | Gravitas: Will Russian Ally Serbia Invade Kosovo? NATO Boosts Forces Amid Escalating Tensions</a>

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UEFA are yet to acknowledge the complaint made by the Serbian FA but if the Balkan country pulls out of the tournament, both Slovenia and Denmark,&nbsp;who they are scheduled to face, would be awarded a 3-0 win.&nbsp;

UEFA on Wednesday cancelled the credentials of a Kosovar journalist named Arlind Sadiku after he made a nationalist double-eagle gesture towards Serbian fans during the match against England.&nbsp;

The gesture is provocative as it mimics the eagle on Albania's national flag. There have been several instances where making the said gesture has led to fights between Serbian nationalists and ethnic Albanians, who make up the vast majority of Kosovo's population.

(With inputs from agencies)

Serbia have threatened to pull out of Euro 2024, hours before their match against Slovenia, accusing Croatian and Albanian fans of chanting about the killing of Serbians.

Serbia have threatened to pull out of Euro 2024, hours before their match against Slovenia, accusing Croatian and Albanian fans of chanting about the killing of Serbians. The incident took place during the Group B match in Hamburg on Wednesday (Jun 19) when both sets of fans chanted "Kill, kill, kill the Serb". Jovan Surbatovic, the general secretary of the Football Association of Serbia, issued the threat and called upon UEFA to take strong action. "What happened is scandalous and we will ask [European governing body] Uefa for sanctions, even if it means not continuing the competition," Surbatovic was quoted as saying by Serbian state-owned broadcaster RTS. “We will demand from UEFA to punish the federations of both selections. We do not want to participate in that, but if Uefa does not punish them, we will think how will we proceed," he added. Also read | Euro 2024: Denmark's Eriksen who suffered cardiac arrest in 2021, scores goal after 1,100 days in tournament Serbian FA fined Surbatovic also referred to the $15,000 fine imposed on the Serbian FA after objects were thrown and a provocative message was displayed during Serbia's Euro 2024 defeat by England on 16 June. Notably, the Serbian fans had displayed an ultra-nationalist banner proclaiming Serbian dominion over Kosovo. “We were punished for isolated cases and our fans behaved much better than the others. We Serbs are gentlemen and we have an open heart, so I appeal to the fans to remain gentlemen," said Surbatovic. Watch | Gravitas: Will Russian Ally Serbia Invade Kosovo? NATO Boosts Forces Amid Escalating Tensions × UEFA are yet to acknowledge the complaint made by the Serbian FA but if the Balkan country pulls out of the tournament, both Slovenia and Denmark, who they are scheduled to face, would be awarded a 3-0 win. UEFA on Wednesday cancelled the credentials of a Kosovar journalist named Arlind Sadiku after he made a nationalist double-eagle gesture towards Serbian fans during the match against England. The gesture is provocative as it mimics the eagle on Albania's national flag. There have been several instances where making the said gesture has led to fights between Serbian nationalists and ethnic Albanians, who make up the vast majority of Kosovo's population. (With inputs from agencies)

Euro 2024: Serbia threaten to quit tournament over chants by rival countries

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work. The country could also lose its 2030 FIFA World Cup hosting rights as well.

According to the news outlet the Sun, Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Uribes, the president of Spain’s Supreme Sports Council, has sent a letter to both, UEFA and FIFA, explaining role of government in Spanish FA's working.&nbsp;

The governing football bodies, however, haven't responded kindly to Rodriguez-Uribes' explanation and have asked some questions:

<ul>
	<li>On what legal and /or factual basis was the Commission appointed?</li>
	<li>Who makes up the Commission and who appointed its members?</li>
	<li>What is the Commission’s exact mandate?</li>
	<li>What powers does the Commission have?</li>
	<li>What relationship does the Commission have with the statutory decision-making bodies in the RFEF?</li>
</ul>

Failing to get a satisfactory answers, Spain could lose on its participation in the upcoming Euro 2024. The tournament is scheduled to be played in Germany from June 15. The month-long tournament has Spain in Group B alongside Italy, Croatia, and Albania.

Furthermore, Spanish football league LaLiga clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona could also be banned from taking part in next year's Champions League as cascading affect.

The government started to take part in football association's functions after Luis Rubiales' infamous kiss scandal in 2023 Women’s World Cup. Rubiales, 46, had resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final.

He subsequently has also been facing probe regarding financial irregularities during his time in chare which saw Spanish Super Cup being transferred to Saudi Arabia in 2020.

It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state.&nbsp;

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work.

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work. The country could also lose its 2030 FIFA World Cup hosting rights as well. According to the news outlet the Sun, Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Uribes, the president of Spain’s Supreme Sports Council, has sent a letter to both, UEFA and FIFA, explaining role of government in Spanish FA's working. The governing football bodies, however, haven't responded kindly to Rodriguez-Uribes' explanation and have asked some questions: On what legal and /or factual basis was the Commission appointed? Who makes up the Commission and who appointed its members? What is the Commission’s exact mandate? What powers does the Commission have? What relationship does the Commission have with the statutory decision-making bodies in the RFEF? Failing to get a satisfactory answers, Spain could lose on its participation in the upcoming Euro 2024. The tournament is scheduled to be played in Germany from June 15. The month-long tournament has Spain in Group B alongside Italy, Croatia, and Albania. Furthermore, Spanish football league LaLiga clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona could also be banned from taking part in next year's Champions League as cascading affect. The government started to take part in football association's functions after Luis Rubiales' infamous kiss scandal in 2023 Women’s World Cup. Rubiales, 46, had resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final. He subsequently has also been facing probe regarding financial irregularities during his time in chare which saw Spanish Super Cup being transferred to Saudi Arabia in 2020. It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state.

Spain to be banned from participating in Euro 2024? All you need to know

The UEFA Champions league will undergo a major change from the 2024/25 season. The number of teams will increase from 32 to 26 and the knockout rounds will have tennis-style seedings. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo gets you the details.

Explained: The new UEFA champions league format

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has insisted that the European governing body was "right" to kick Manchester City out of the Champions League for breaching financial regulations. City were suspended by UEFA in February 2020 when the club violated Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations and were likely to face a two-year suspension. However, a successful appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in July of that year saw the ban being lifted.

<h2>Ceferin insists UEFA was right</h2>

"We know we were right. We wouldn't decide if we didn't think we were right. As a trial lawyer for 25 years, I know that, sometimes, you win a case that you are sure you will lose," UEFA president Ceferin told Britain's Daily Telegraph on Wednesday (Jan 24).

"And, sometimes, you lose a case when you're sure... You have to respect the decision of the court. I don't want to speak about the case in England. But I trust that the decision of our independent body was correct."

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CAS found some of the alleged breaches were "not established", while City successfully defended its case in court. Interestingly, while City could have faced an outcast from the Champions League for the 2020-21 season but they made it to the final of the competition. They finished runners-up to Chelsea after losing the final played in Porto and also made it to the last four when before getting knocked out in the 2021-22 season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-medvedev-edges-past-hurkacz-in-five-set-thriller-to-enter-semis-to-face-alcaraz-or-zverev-683106">Australian Open: Medvedev edges past Hurkacz in five-set thriller to enter semis, to face Alcaraz or Zverev</a>

City are currently facing more than 100 breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules and are set for a meeting with the independent commission. Recently, the Premier League has sanctioned Everton and Nottingham Forest for Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) upon which there is growing uncertainty in the Manchester City camp.

Everton have been docked off 10 points in the ongoing season of the Premier League and are just above the relegation zone with 17 points.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has insisted that the European governing body was "right" to kick Manchester City out of the Champions League for breaching financial regulations.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has insisted that the European governing body was "right" to kick Manchester City out of the Champions League for breaching financial regulations. City were suspended by UEFA in February 2020 when the club violated Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations and were likely to face a two-year suspension. However, a successful appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in July of that year saw the ban being lifted. Ceferin insists UEFA was right "We know we were right. We wouldn't decide if we didn't think we were right. As a trial lawyer for 25 years, I know that, sometimes, you win a case that you are sure you will lose," UEFA president Ceferin told Britain's Daily Telegraph on Wednesday (Jan 24). "And, sometimes, you lose a case when you're sure... You have to respect the decision of the court. I don't want to speak about the case in England. But I trust that the decision of our independent body was correct." × CAS found some of the alleged breaches were "not established", while City successfully defended its case in court. Interestingly, while City could have faced an outcast from the Champions League for the 2020-21 season but they made it to the final of the competition. They finished runners-up to Chelsea after losing the final played in Porto and also made it to the last four when before getting knocked out in the 2021-22 season. ALSO READ | Australian Open: Medvedev edges past Hurkacz in five-set thriller to enter semis, to face Alcaraz or Zverev City are currently facing more than 100 breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules and are set for a meeting with the independent commission. Recently, the Premier League has sanctioned Everton and Nottingham Forest for Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) upon which there is growing uncertainty in the Manchester City camp. Everton have been docked off 10 points in the ongoing season of the Premier League and are just above the relegation zone with 17 points.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin insists it was ‘right’ to kick Manchester City out of Champions League

The battle for European football diplomacy saw a major development on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League (ESL) terming the act as ‘unlawful’. With the football world divided in Europe, the friction between UEFA (European football’s governing body) and the ESL is now at a breaking point as top teams could be on their way out of the premier competitions like Champions League and Europa League.

In April 2021, a top cluster of continental clubs came together to form the ESL which included the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona along with the ‘big six’ Premier League sides. The cluster also included the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan before the plan was scrapped amid big&nbsp;protests by fans. Upon criticism, 10 of the 12 clubs pulled out of the European Super League while UEFA decided to levy hefty fines on them. Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona though did not back out and are still part of the plan.

<h2>How does the current European format work?</h2>

A concept originated from the original Champions League platform, the ESL aims at developing a league structure for top European clubs. Currently, in the Champions League, a club from one European nation can compete against another only in the group stages or a knockout match. A group is only restricted to four teams, which totals six matchdays. Therefore, not multiple top clubs from Europe can compete in the same group (except a few groups).

<h2>ESL’s structure</h2>

With the ESL on the rise, it aims to provide a platform for top European clubs to compete in a league structure where&nbsp;multiple teams can compete on a more regular basis. If the current project is sanctioned and top teams across Europe participate in it, these teams will compete on a more regular basis&nbsp;than just meeting in the Champions League.

Practically, Real Madrid vs Manchester United, a fixture that has taken place once in the last decade will be on the calendar every season as both teams will be part of the same league structure.&nbsp; Currently, only teams that are part of the same country’s league structure can meet every season while teams part of a different country’s league structure only meet in the Champions League or the Europa League.

<h2>How will the ESL work?</h2>

As announced on Thursday, 64 teams will be part of the ESL and will be divided into three categories. These categories are Gold (top division), Silver (second division) and Blue (third division). The Gold and Silver Leagues will see the inclusion of 16 teams each while Blue League will have 32 teams.

Star - the top league - would involve 16 clubs, grouped into two teams of eight.

Gold - the second league - would be the same.

Blue - the third league - would have 32 teams, grouped into four teams of eight.

All leagues would play 14 matches per team - seven home and seven away.

The knockout stage

In the men's and women's competitions, the top four teams from each group in the Star and Gold league will go through to the quarter-finals, meaning eight teams in each tier compete in the knockout stages.

There would also be an eight-team knockout stage in the men's Blue league, with the top two teams in each group going through to the quarter-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-virat-kohli-returns-home-due-to-family-emergency-ruturaj-gaikwad-ruled-out-of-south-africa-tests-672472">SA vs IND: Virat Kohli returns home due to family emergency; Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of South Africa Tests</a>

<h2>Who was part of the European Super League?</h2>

Currently, only Real Madrid and Barcelona are part of the plan&nbsp;as mentioned with other teams pulling out due to fan criticism. The cluster consisted of six Premier League giants – Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. On the flip side, after Thursday’s verdict Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal have announced to not support the ESL and will continue to work with UEFA.

The cluster included Atletico Madrid as one of three Spanish teams to be part of the ESL while three Italian sides – Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus were part of the league structure. However, there is no clear stand taken by any other club apart from the Premier League sides, which have kept their cards regarding ESL close to their chest.

No club from Germany and France were part of the plan&nbsp;in the initial phase of the competition but the ESL could approach them since the Premier League sides are likely to pull out.

If the proposed plan of the ESL goes forward, it could be a major player in European football while there are also shouts for a unified world league which could see teams across different continents compete in the same structure.

The battle for European football diplomacy saw a major development on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League (ESL) terming the act as ‘unlawful’.

The battle for European football diplomacy saw a major development on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League (ESL) terming the act as ‘unlawful’. With the football world divided in Europe, the friction between UEFA (European football’s governing body) and the ESL is now at a breaking point as top teams could be on their way out of the premier competitions like Champions League and Europa League. In April 2021, a top cluster of continental clubs came together to form the ESL which included the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona along with the ‘big six’ Premier League sides. The cluster also included the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan before the plan was scrapped amid big protests by fans. Upon criticism, 10 of the 12 clubs pulled out of the European Super League while UEFA decided to levy hefty fines on them. Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona though did not back out and are still part of the plan. How does the current European format work? A concept originated from the original Champions League platform, the ESL aims at developing a league structure for top European clubs. Currently, in the Champions League, a club from one European nation can compete against another only in the group stages or a knockout match. A group is only restricted to four teams, which totals six matchdays. Therefore, not multiple top clubs from Europe can compete in the same group (except a few groups). ESL’s structure With the ESL on the rise, it aims to provide a platform for top European clubs to compete in a league structure where multiple teams can compete on a more regular basis. If the current project is sanctioned and top teams across Europe participate in it, these teams will compete on a more regular basis than just meeting in the Champions League. Practically, Real Madrid vs Manchester United, a fixture that has taken place once in the last decade will be on the calendar every season as both teams will be part of the same league structure. Currently, only teams that are part of the same country’s league structure can meet every season while teams part of a different country’s league structure only meet in the Champions League or the Europa League. How will the ESL work? As announced on Thursday, 64 teams will be part of the ESL and will be divided into three categories. These categories are Gold (top division), Silver (second division) and Blue (third division). The Gold and Silver Leagues will see the inclusion of 16 teams each while Blue League will have 32 teams. Star - the top league - would involve 16 clubs, grouped into two teams of eight. Gold - the second league - would be the same. Blue - the third league - would have 32 teams, grouped into four teams of eight. All leagues would play 14 matches per team - seven home and seven away. The knockout stage In the men's and women's competitions, the top four teams from each group in the Star and Gold league will go through to the quarter-finals, meaning eight teams in each tier compete in the knockout stages. There would also be an eight-team knockout stage in the men's Blue league, with the top two teams in each group going through to the quarter-finals. ALSO READ | SA vs IND: Virat Kohli returns home due to family emergency; Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of South Africa Tests Who was part of the European Super League? Currently, only Real Madrid and Barcelona are part of the plan as mentioned with other teams pulling out due to fan criticism. The cluster consisted of six Premier League giants – Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. On the flip side, after Thursday’s verdict Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal have announced to not support the ESL and will continue to work with UEFA. The cluster included Atletico Madrid as one of three Spanish teams to be part of the ESL while three Italian sides – Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus were part of the league structure. However, there is no clear stand taken by any other club apart from the Premier League sides, which have kept their cards regarding ESL close to their chest. No club from Germany and France were part of the plan in the initial phase of the competition but the ESL could approach them since the Premier League sides are likely to pull out. If the proposed plan of the ESL goes forward, it could be a major player in European football while there are also shouts for a unified world league which could see teams across different continents compete in the same structure.

EXPLAINED: UEFA vs European Super League tussle for football diplomacy

There were sensational developments in European football on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice's ruling against UEFA and FIFA about the European Super League (ESL) formation. The decision left both FIFA (World Football Governing Body) and UEFA (European Football Governing Body) in a spot of bother after they had blocked the formation of the ESL in 2021. According to the European Court of Justice's ruling, the decision by FIFA and UEFA was unlawful. However, both the apex bodies have now defended their stands taken in 2021 as the tussle between the ESL and top football bodies intensifies.

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— FIFA (@FIFAcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAcom/status/1737860332872212616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>FIFA chief reacts</h2>

"With the greatest respect for the European Court of Justice, today's judgment does not change anything, really," FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted on Instagram.

"Historically, we have been organising the best competitions in the world and this will also be the case in the future,” added Infantino.

Also commenting on the issue was, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin as he vowed to continue his fight against the ESL project. UEFA was the first body to oppose the project in 2021 when 12 teams came together to form the league. However, the ESL has received backlash from fans and teams while fines were also imposed by UEFA.

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🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/EuropeanLeagues?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuropeanLeagues</a> Statement on European Court of Justice Ruling on European Super League case - 🔗<a href="https://t.co/uiP2rsNSAD">https://t.co/uiP2rsNSAD</a> <a href="https://t.co/hR8ITC7ja8">pic.twitter.com/hR8ITC7ja8</a>
— European Leagues (@EuropeanLeagues) <a href="https://twitter.com/EuropeanLeagues/status/1737808726566879726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-sydney-sixers-tom-curran-faces-four-match-ban-for-umpire-intimidation-club-to-lodge-appeal-672094">BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal</a>

"We will not try to stop them. They can create whatever they want. I hope they start their fantastic competition as soon as possible ... with two clubs,” sneered UEFA President Ceferin.

The Premier League also reacted to the verdict and has vowed to not support the formation of the ESL. Earlier the ‘big six’ Premier League clubs had formed a cluster from England to participate in the ESL, but those plans were cut short after a big backlash from the fans.

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Premier League Statement 
 
League notes today’s judgment in European Court of Justice case involving "European Super League" and continues to reject any such concept 
 
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/xEkMWcAtGm">https://t.co/xEkMWcAtGm</a> <a href="https://t.co/yvONBkfXYK">pic.twitter.com/yvONBkfXYK</a>
— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1737837014614245519?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The ruling does not endorse the so-called 'European Super League' and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept," the English top flight said in a statement.

"Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a 'breakaway' competition that severs the link between domestic and European football.

"The Premier League reiterates its commitment to the clear principles of open competition that underpin the success of domestic and international club competitions,” concluded a statement from the Premier League.

There were sensational developments in European football on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice's ruling against UEFA and FIFA about the European Super League (ESL) formation.

There were sensational developments in European football on Thursday (Dec 21) after the European Court of Justice's ruling against UEFA and FIFA about the European Super League (ESL) formation. The decision left both FIFA (World Football Governing Body) and UEFA (European Football Governing Body) in a spot of bother after they had blocked the formation of the ESL in 2021. According to the European Court of Justice's ruling, the decision by FIFA and UEFA was unlawful. However, both the apex bodies have now defended their stands taken in 2021 as the tussle between the ESL and top football bodies intensifies. pic.twitter.com/Zpz08vUoEg — FIFA (@FIFAcom) December 21, 2023 × FIFA chief reacts "With the greatest respect for the European Court of Justice, today's judgment does not change anything, really," FIFA chief Gianni Infantino posted on Instagram. "Historically, we have been organising the best competitions in the world and this will also be the case in the future,” added Infantino. Also commenting on the issue was, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin as he vowed to continue his fight against the ESL project. UEFA was the first body to oppose the project in 2021 when 12 teams came together to form the league. However, the ESL has received backlash from fans and teams while fines were also imposed by UEFA. 🚨 @EuropeanLeagues Statement on European Court of Justice Ruling on European Super League case - 🔗https://t.co/uiP2rsNSAD pic.twitter.com/hR8ITC7ja8 — European Leagues (@EuropeanLeagues) December 21, 2023 × ALSO READ | BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal "We will not try to stop them. They can create whatever they want. I hope they start their fantastic competition as soon as possible ... with two clubs,” sneered UEFA President Ceferin. The Premier League also reacted to the verdict and has vowed to not support the formation of the ESL. Earlier the ‘big six’ Premier League clubs had formed a cluster from England to participate in the ESL, but those plans were cut short after a big backlash from the fans. Premier League Statement League notes today’s judgment in European Court of Justice case involving "European Super League" and continues to reject any such concept ➡️ https://t.co/xEkMWcAtGm pic.twitter.com/yvONBkfXYK — Premier League (@premierleague) December 21, 2023 × "The ruling does not endorse the so-called 'European Super League' and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept," the English top flight said in a statement. "Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a 'breakaway' competition that severs the link between domestic and European football. "The Premier League reiterates its commitment to the clear principles of open competition that underpin the success of domestic and international club competitions,” concluded a statement from the Premier League.

FIFA, UEFA chief react after top court's ruling in favour of European Super League

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) on Thursday (Dec 21) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League terming the act as ‘unlawful’. According to the European Court of Justice, blocking the formation of the new competition was against European Union (EU) law. The decision comes as a huge blow to international football governing body FIFA and European football governing body UEFA, who had blocked the formation of the league back in 2021.

The statement detailed - when it comes to potential new competitions both FIFA and UEFA must ensure their powers are "transparent, objective, non-discriminatory and proportionate".

<h2>ECJ’s statement</h2>

"However, the powers of Fifa and Uefa are not subject to any such criteria. Fifa and Uefa are, therefore, abusing a dominant position,” a statement released by the ECJ stated.

"Moreover, given their arbitrary nature, their rules on approval, control and sanctions must be held to be unjustified restrictions on the freedom to provide services.

"That does not mean that a competition such as the Super League project must necessarily be approved. The Court does not rule on that specific project in its judgment,” the statement further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-sydney-sixers-tom-curran-faces-four-match-ban-for-umpire-intimidation-club-to-lodge-appeal-672094">BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal</a>

<h2>What is the European Super League?</h2>

In April 2021, a top cluster of continental clubs came together to form the European Super League (ESL) which included the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona along with the ‘big six’ Premier League sides. The cluster also included the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan before the plan was scrapped amid big fan protests. Upon criticism, 10 of the 12 clubs pulled out of the European Super League while UEFA decided to levy hefty fines on them. Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona though did not back out and are still part of the plan.

While Thursday proved to be the decisive day for ESL, several players and managers have opposed the idea of the formation of such a league. Current Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is against the idea of such a league as it affects the integrity of players and fans. On the player part, Champions League winner Bernardo Silva has also criticised the formation of the ESL stating winning the Champions League was his biggest dream rather than playing in a league consisting of only top teams.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) on Thursday (Dec 21) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League terming the act as ‘unlawful’. According to the European Court of Justice, blocking the formation of the new competition was against European Union (EU) law.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) on Thursday (Dec 21) delivered its verdict on the blocking of the European Super League terming the act as ‘unlawful’. According to the European Court of Justice, blocking the formation of the new competition was against European Union (EU) law. The decision comes as a huge blow to international football governing body FIFA and European football governing body UEFA, who had blocked the formation of the league back in 2021. The statement detailed - when it comes to potential new competitions both FIFA and UEFA must ensure their powers are "transparent, objective, non-discriminatory and proportionate". ECJ’s statement "However, the powers of Fifa and Uefa are not subject to any such criteria. Fifa and Uefa are, therefore, abusing a dominant position,” a statement released by the ECJ stated. "Moreover, given their arbitrary nature, their rules on approval, control and sanctions must be held to be unjustified restrictions on the freedom to provide services. "That does not mean that a competition such as the Super League project must necessarily be approved. The Court does not rule on that specific project in its judgment,” the statement further added. ALSO READ | BBL: Sydney Sixers' Tom Curran faces four-match ban for umpire intimidation, club to lodge appeal What is the European Super League? In April 2021, a top cluster of continental clubs came together to form the European Super League (ESL) which included the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona along with the ‘big six’ Premier League sides. The cluster also included the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan before the plan was scrapped amid big fan protests. Upon criticism, 10 of the 12 clubs pulled out of the European Super League while UEFA decided to levy hefty fines on them. Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona though did not back out and are still part of the plan. While Thursday proved to be the decisive day for ESL, several players and managers have opposed the idea of the formation of such a league. Current Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is against the idea of such a league as it affects the integrity of players and fans. On the player part, Champions League winner Bernardo Silva has also criticised the formation of the ESL stating winning the Champions League was his biggest dream rather than playing in a league consisting of only top teams.

Blow for FIFA, UEFA as top court rules out ban of breakaway European Super League as 'unlawful'

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draws were announced on Monday (Dec. 18) along with the dates for first and second leg games as well. 16 teams advanced to the Round of 16 after the group stage fixtures ended on December 14. The major teams which failed to make it to the next stage were Manchester United from the English Premier League (EPL), AC Milan from Italian Serie A and Sevilla from the Spanish LaLiga.

Two teams from eight groups entered the next round and here below are there names:

Group winners: Arsenal, Atlético de Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad

Group runners-up: FC Copenhagen, Inter Milan, Lazio, RB Leipzig, Napoli, Paris-Saint Germain, FC Porto, PSV Eindhoven﻿

<h2>Here below are the draws for each team:</h2>

FC Porto (Portugal Primeira Liga) v Arsenal (Premier League)

Napoli (Serie A) v Barcelona (LaLiga)

Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1) v Real Sociedad (LaLiga)

Inter Milan (Serie A) v Atletico Madrid (LaLiga)

PSV Eindhoven (Eredivisie) v Borussia Dortmund (Bundesliga)

Lazio (Serie A) v Bayern Munich (Bundesliga)

FC Copenhagen (Danish Superliga) v Manchester City (Premier League)

RB Leipzig (Bundesliga) v Real Madrid (LaLiga)

<h2>How the teams are drawn?</h2>

The winners, which are seeded teams, are drawn against the runners-up which are unseeded teams.

<h2>What is the criteria used to draw the teams against one another?</h2>

There are two criteria which much be fulfilled while drawing the teams in Round of 16. Here below are them:

<ul>
	<li>A team can not face another team from the same national football association. For e.g., Arsenal can't face Manchester City in the Round of 16.</li>
	<li>The second criteria is two team which have faced each other in the group stage, can not face each other in the Round 16. &nbsp;For e.g., PSG and Dortmund, both played against each other in the group stage and hence can't face off in Round of 16.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Dates for Round of 16 fixtures:</h2>

The first leg games of Round of 16 will be played on February 13-14 and 20-21, 2024.

 
The second leg games of Round of 16 will be played on March 5-6 and 12-13, 2024. &nbsp;

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draws were announced on Monday (Dec. 18) along with the dates for first and second leg games as well. 16 teams advanced to the Round of 16 after the group stage fixtures ended on December 14.

The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 draws were announced on Monday (Dec. 18) along with the dates for first and second leg games as well. 16 teams advanced to the Round of 16 after the group stage fixtures ended on December 14. The major teams which failed to make it to the next stage were Manchester United from the English Premier League (EPL), AC Milan from Italian Serie A and Sevilla from the Spanish LaLiga. Two teams from eight groups entered the next round and here below are there names: Group winners: Arsenal, Atlético de Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad Group runners-up: FC Copenhagen, Inter Milan, Lazio, RB Leipzig, Napoli, Paris-Saint Germain, FC Porto, PSV Eindhoven﻿ Here below are the draws for each team: FC Porto (Portugal Primeira Liga) v Arsenal (Premier League) Napoli (Serie A) v Barcelona (LaLiga) Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1) v Real Sociedad (LaLiga) Inter Milan (Serie A) v Atletico Madrid (LaLiga) PSV Eindhoven (Eredivisie) v Borussia Dortmund (Bundesliga) Lazio (Serie A) v Bayern Munich (Bundesliga) FC Copenhagen (Danish Superliga) v Manchester City (Premier League) RB Leipzig (Bundesliga) v Real Madrid (LaLiga) How the teams are drawn? The winners, which are seeded teams, are drawn against the runners-up which are unseeded teams. What is the criteria used to draw the teams against one another? There are two criteria which much be fulfilled while drawing the teams in Round of 16. Here below are them: A team can not face another team from the same national football association. For e.g., Arsenal can't face Manchester City in the Round of 16. The second criteria is two team which have faced each other in the group stage, can not face each other in the Round 16. For e.g., PSG and Dortmund, both played against each other in the group stage and hence can't face off in Round of 16. Dates for Round of 16 fixtures: The first leg games of Round of 16 will be played on February 13-14 and 20-21, 2024. The second leg games of Round of 16 will be played on March 5-6 and 12-13, 2024.

UEFA Champions League round of 16 draws announced. Check full list inside

European football's governing body UEFA said Tuesday it had abandoned plans to re-admit Russian under-17 teams into the youth European Championship next year.

In September, UEFA reinstated Russian youth teams to its competitions, having suspended the country's senior sides due to the invasion of Ukraine.

UEFA argued that youth players should not have to pay the price for the actions of adults.

That decision sparked anger in Kyiv, which said in response it would boycott all UEFA competitions featuring Russian teams.

But UEFA now says it was too difficult logistically to reintegrate Russian under-17 teams and the issue was removed from the agenda of a meeting of the body's Executive Committee.

"The agenda point was withdrawn as no technical solution to allow Russian teams to play could be found," UEFA said.

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Kyiv thanked UEFA for scrapping the plans and promised to "fight for the continuation of the isolation" of Russia.

"We thank our European partners for supporting Ukraine," Ukraine's football association said in a statement.

FIFA, world football's governing body, followed in UEFA's footsteps earlier this month by announcing it too would reinstate Russia's under-17 teams.

FIFA did not immediately comment when asked for its response following UEFA's decision to scrap its plans.

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European football's governing body UEFA said Tuesday it had abandoned plans to re-admit Russian under-17 teams into the youth European Championship next year. In September, UEFA reinstated Russian youth teams to its competitions, having suspended the country's senior sides due to the invasion of Ukraine.

European football's governing body UEFA said Tuesday it had abandoned plans to re-admit Russian under-17 teams into the youth European Championship next year. In September, UEFA reinstated Russian youth teams to its competitions, having suspended the country's senior sides due to the invasion of Ukraine. UEFA argued that youth players should not have to pay the price for the actions of adults. That decision sparked anger in Kyiv, which said in response it would boycott all UEFA competitions featuring Russian teams. But UEFA now says it was too difficult logistically to reintegrate Russian under-17 teams and the issue was removed from the agenda of a meeting of the body's Executive Committee. "The agenda point was withdrawn as no technical solution to allow Russian teams to play could be found," UEFA said. ALSO READ | FIA to look at F1 calendar changes after drivers puke, faint at Qatar Grand Prix Kyiv thanked UEFA for scrapping the plans and promised to "fight for the continuation of the isolation" of Russia. "We thank our European partners for supporting Ukraine," Ukraine's football association said in a statement. FIFA, world football's governing body, followed in UEFA's footsteps earlier this month by announcing it too would reinstate Russia's under-17 teams. FIFA did not immediately comment when asked for its response following UEFA's decision to scrap its plans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: UEFA confirms abandoning plans to re-admit Russian under-17 teams

European football’s governing body UEFA has officially confirmed the United Kingdom and Ireland as the hosts for the Euro 2028, after weeks of speculation.

UEFA on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed the news that the UK will host the continental showpiece after seven years. It was&nbsp;a joint host during the Euro 2020, which was held in 2021 as the event&nbsp;had to be moved due to Covid pandemic.

UEFA also confirmed Turkey and Italy as the hosts for Euro 2032 after the joint bid was submitted.

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🇬🇧➕🇮🇪 CONFIRMED: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2028?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2028</a> will take place in the UK and Republic of Ireland! 
 
Proposed venues include Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London (x2) Manchester and Newcastle. 
 
Congratulations to our confirmed hosts! <a href="https://t.co/elnLbjWgam">pic.twitter.com/elnLbjWgam</a>
— UEFA (@UEFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/UEFA/status/1711684787323228340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>UEFA confirms Euro hosts</h2>

“Euro 2028 will take place in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Proposed venues include Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London (x2), Manchester and Newcastle,” a statement on UEFA’s social media handle read.

Euro 2028 will be the third time England will be part of the hosts, having hosted the tournament in 1996 when Germany beat the Czech Republic in the final while also playing co-host to the 2020 showpiece (in 2021), in which Italy beat England on penalties.

As things stand, there are nine proposed cities to host the matches of the continental showpiece including matches in Belfast, Dublin, London, and Newcastle. London could see two venues on offer with Wembley likely to host the final while Tottenham Hotspur’s home ground is another stadium in line to host the matches.

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<h2>Turkey, Italy to host 2032 Euros</h2>

UEFA also confirmed Italy and Turkey as hosts for the Euro 2032 as they logged a successful bid.

Italy, the defending European champions will host the Euros for the third time, having last played as hosts in 1968 and 1980, winning the former tournament.

This will be Turkey’s maiden Euro at the senior level as hosts, having previously played hosts to multiple Champions League finals including the 2005 and most recently in 2023.

“Congratulations to Italy and Türkiye, co-hosts of #EURO2032! The joint bidders presented 20 potential host stadiums, of which 10 will be chosen, five per country, by October 2026,” a UEFA statement read.

The news comes days after FIFA confirmed hosts for the 2030 World Cup with six nations playing host for the tournament. This includes Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco as the tournament takes place in three continents.

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European football’s governing body UEFA has officially confirmed the United Kingdom and Ireland as the hosts for the Euro 2028, after weeks of speculation. UEFA on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed the news that the UK will host the continental showpiece after seven years.

European football’s governing body UEFA has officially confirmed the United Kingdom and Ireland as the hosts for the Euro 2028, after weeks of speculation. UEFA on Tuesday (Oct 10) confirmed the news that the UK will host the continental showpiece after seven years. It was a joint host during the Euro 2020, which was held in 2021 as the event had to be moved due to Covid pandemic. UEFA also confirmed Turkey and Italy as the hosts for Euro 2032 after the joint bid was submitted. 🇬🇧➕🇮🇪 CONFIRMED: #EURO2028 will take place in the UK and Republic of Ireland! Proposed venues include Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London (x2) Manchester and Newcastle. Congratulations to our confirmed hosts! pic.twitter.com/elnLbjWgam — UEFA (@UEFA) October 10, 2023 × UEFA confirms Euro hosts “Euro 2028 will take place in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Proposed venues include Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London (x2), Manchester and Newcastle,” a statement on UEFA’s social media handle read. Euro 2028 will be the third time England will be part of the hosts, having hosted the tournament in 1996 when Germany beat the Czech Republic in the final while also playing co-host to the 2020 showpiece (in 2021), in which Italy beat England on penalties. As things stand, there are nine proposed cities to host the matches of the continental showpiece including matches in Belfast, Dublin, London, and Newcastle. London could see two venues on offer with Wembley likely to host the final while Tottenham Hotspur’s home ground is another stadium in line to host the matches. ALSO READ | FIA to look at F1 calendar changes after drivers puke, faint at Qatar Grand Prix Turkey, Italy to host 2032 Euros UEFA also confirmed Italy and Turkey as hosts for the Euro 2032 as they logged a successful bid. Italy, the defending European champions will host the Euros for the third time, having last played as hosts in 1968 and 1980, winning the former tournament. This will be Turkey’s maiden Euro at the senior level as hosts, having previously played hosts to multiple Champions League finals including the 2005 and most recently in 2023. “Congratulations to Italy and Türkiye, co-hosts of #EURO2032! The joint bidders presented 20 potential host stadiums, of which 10 will be chosen, five per country, by October 2026,” a UEFA statement read. The news comes days after FIFA confirmed hosts for the 2030 World Cup with six nations playing host for the tournament. This includes Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco as the tournament takes place in three continents. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: UEFA confirms UK, Ireland as hosts for Euro 2028; Turkey, Italy to host in 2032

UEFA confirmed on Wednesday its receipt of a request by Italy and Turkey to merge their individual bids into one to host the 2032 European Championship, leaving Britain and Ireland as the sole bidder for the 2028 tournament.

"The award of both tournaments still requires the approval of the Executive Committee at its meeting in Nyon on 10 October," European soccer's governing body said in a statement.

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A joint bid to host Euro 2028 was placed by England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The bid Euro 2028 is unopposed after Turkey withdrew from the race to focus on a joint bid with Italy for Euro 2032.

"We are looking forward to presenting our bid to UEFA on 10th October. These are exciting times, and we have a very compelling Euro 2028 proposal for UEFA," the Football Association of Ireland said.

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UEFA confirmed on Wednesday its receipt of a request by Italy and Turkey to merge their individual bids into one to host the 2032 European Championship, leaving Britain and Ireland as the sole bidder for the 2028 tournament.

UEFA confirmed on Wednesday its receipt of a request by Italy and Turkey to merge their individual bids into one to host the 2032 European Championship, leaving Britain and Ireland as the sole bidder for the 2028 tournament. "The award of both tournaments still requires the approval of the Executive Committee at its meeting in Nyon on 10 October," European soccer's governing body said in a statement. ALSO READ | CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup A joint bid to host Euro 2028 was placed by England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The bid Euro 2028 is unopposed after Turkey withdrew from the race to focus on a joint bid with Italy for Euro 2032. "We are looking forward to presenting our bid to UEFA on 10th October. These are exciting times, and we have a very compelling Euro 2028 proposal for UEFA," the Football Association of Ireland said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: UEFA confirms Britain as sole bidder for EURO 2028; Turkey, Italy to bid for 2032 edition

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism.&nbsp;

Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier.

"The problem of violence and hooliganism is not just Greek, it is European," he told a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.&nbsp;

"I call on everyone at a European level to eliminate this cancer", he added.&nbsp;

AEK Athens fan Michalis Katsouris, 29, died after being stabbed during violent clashes on the eve of Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb's qualifier at AEK near the Greek club's stadium in Nea Filadelfia, a western suburb of Athens.

Last Tuesday's match was then postponed by UEFA until 19 August.

"We will do everything in our power to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," said Ceferin.

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On Sunday, the Greek courts charged 105 people with involvement in the incidents and remanded them in custody. The accused include 102 Croatians, suspected of being linked to the Bad Blue Boys, a Dinamo Zagreb ultra group.

"The guilty parties will be found and punished for this murder," said the Greek prime minister, who also called for a "European mechanism to tackle violence in stadiums and punish it effectively."

Mitsotakis also emphasised that he had agreed with the four chairmen of the main Greek clubs that "the police should operate in the stadiums and be able to control entry".&nbsp;

"But violence is not just in the stadiums, it is also on the streets, and we need to fight it collectively", he added.&nbsp;

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UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism. Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Wednesday urged European football to "eliminate the cancer" of hooliganism. Ceferin was speaking in Athens in the wake of last week's fatal stabbing of a fan ahead of a Champions League qualifier. "The problem of violence and hooliganism is not just Greek, it is European," he told a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. "I call on everyone at a European level to eliminate this cancer", he added. AEK Athens fan Michalis Katsouris, 29, died after being stabbed during violent clashes on the eve of Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb's qualifier at AEK near the Greek club's stadium in Nea Filadelfia, a western suburb of Athens. Last Tuesday's match was then postponed by UEFA until 19 August. "We will do everything in our power to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," said Ceferin. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example On Sunday, the Greek courts charged 105 people with involvement in the incidents and remanded them in custody. The accused include 102 Croatians, suspected of being linked to the Bad Blue Boys, a Dinamo Zagreb ultra group. "The guilty parties will be found and punished for this murder," said the Greek prime minister, who also called for a "European mechanism to tackle violence in stadiums and punish it effectively." Mitsotakis also emphasised that he had agreed with the four chairmen of the main Greek clubs that "the police should operate in the stadiums and be able to control entry". "But violence is not just in the stadiums, it is also on the streets, and we need to fight it collectively", he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin says football must 'eliminate cancer' of hooliganism

AS Roma head coach Jose Mourinho has been suspended for their next four matches in the Europa League after the Portuguese boss directed abusive language at referee Anthony Taylor while the club was fined, Europe’s soccer body UEFA said on Wednesday.

UEFA bans Jose Mourinho for four games for abusing referee Anthony Taylor

Jose Mourinho has been suspended for four European matches for insulting referee Anthony Taylor after Roma's Europa League final defeat by Sevilla, UEFA announced on Wednesday.

The Portuguese confronted Taylor in a car park following Roma's penalty shoot-out loss after a 1-1 draw in Budapest.

Mourinho has been banned from "the next four UEFA club competition matches in which he would otherwise participate, for directing abusive language at a match official", European football's governing body said.

His team will play in the Europa League group stage next season.

Roma have also been fined 50,000 euros ($54,744) and banned from taking away fans to their next European match "for the lighting of fireworks, throwing of objects, acts of damage and crowd disturbances".

The Italian club were also fined 5,000 euros over the "improper conduct of their team" and ordered to "contact the Hungarian Football Federation within 30 days" to agree a settlement regarding damages caused by their supporters in the stadium.

Taylor was harassed by Roma fans at Budapest airport with his family the day after the controversial final.

An Italian man was charged with affray after the ugly clash.

Referees' body PGMOL said: "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the UEFA Europa League final."

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Taylor booked 13 players, seven of them from Roma, while the bad-tempered game was littered with delays due to the unusually high number of fouls.

It was Sevilla's seventh Europa League triumph and the first European final defeat of Mourinho's managerial career.

Sevilla were not punished by UEFA despite having also been charged over a pitch invasion and the behaviour of their fans and the players.

West Ham were also fined 58,000 euros and cannot take fans to their first two Europa League away games next season following their Europa Conference League triumph over Fiorentina.

The Italian club's captain Cristiano Biraghi suffered a head injury inflicted by a cup thrown by a West Ham supporter.

West Ham, who won the final 2-1 in Prague, were also sanctioned for a pitch invasion.

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Jose Mourinho has been suspended for four European matches for insulting referee Anthony Taylor after Roma's Europa League final defeat by Sevilla, UEFA announced on Wednesday.

Jose Mourinho has been suspended for four European matches for insulting referee Anthony Taylor after Roma's Europa League final defeat by Sevilla, UEFA announced on Wednesday. The Portuguese confronted Taylor in a car park following Roma's penalty shoot-out loss after a 1-1 draw in Budapest. Mourinho has been banned from "the next four UEFA club competition matches in which he would otherwise participate, for directing abusive language at a match official", European football's governing body said. His team will play in the Europa League group stage next season. Roma have also been fined 50,000 euros ($54,744) and banned from taking away fans to their next European match "for the lighting of fireworks, throwing of objects, acts of damage and crowd disturbances". The Italian club were also fined 5,000 euros over the "improper conduct of their team" and ordered to "contact the Hungarian Football Federation within 30 days" to agree a settlement regarding damages caused by their supporters in the stadium. Taylor was harassed by Roma fans at Budapest airport with his family the day after the controversial final. An Italian man was charged with affray after the ugly clash. Referees' body PGMOL said: "We are appalled at the unjustified and abhorrent abuse directed at Anthony and his family as he tries to make his way home from refereeing the UEFA Europa League final." ALSO READ | 'Not going to...': Ben Stokes backs declaration call after England lose Edgbaston Test to Australia Taylor booked 13 players, seven of them from Roma, while the bad-tempered game was littered with delays due to the unusually high number of fouls. It was Sevilla's seventh Europa League triumph and the first European final defeat of Mourinho's managerial career. Sevilla were not punished by UEFA despite having also been charged over a pitch invasion and the behaviour of their fans and the players. West Ham were also fined 58,000 euros and cannot take fans to their first two Europa League away games next season following their Europa Conference League triumph over Fiorentina. The Italian club's captain Cristiano Biraghi suffered a head injury inflicted by a cup thrown by a West Ham supporter. West Ham, who won the final 2-1 in Prague, were also sanctioned for a pitch invasion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jose Mourinho given four-match ban for insulting referee Anthony Taylor in Europa League final

Pep Guardiola and Manchester City will be chasing history on Saturday, June 10 evening as they take on Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League. While talks have been about Manchester City chasing a treble, Inter Milan too are chasing a treble going into the summit clash in Istanbul on Saturday. City who could become just the second team in English football history to win the treble of Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup will look to stamp their authority on the final. Inter on the flip side will look to rely on their offense and defense which saw them get the better of city rivals AC Milan on their way to the final.

Champions League Final Preview: Man City chase place in history books as Inter try to play party-spoilers

Jose Mourinho has been charged with using abusive language against a match official, governing body UEFA said on Friday after the Portuguese manager was filmed shouting at officials following AS Roma's loss to Sevilla in the Europa League final.

Roma boss Mourinho charged with abusing match official: UEFA

The Champions League final for the 2022-23 season will be staged at Istanbul’s Atatürk Olympic Stadium after UEFA stated on Friday, May 12. Earlier reports were stating that the Champions League final could be moved away from the Turkish capital with political unrest being a major reason. However, with UEFA issuing a statement it is now confirmed that this year’s showpiece will be staged by Istanbul, waving away speculations about another venue change.

"UEFA would like to clarify the position on the 2023 Champions League final," a UEFA statement said.

"The 2023 UEFA Champions League final will take place in Istanbul as scheduled, on 10 June 2023. UEFA has no discussions to the contrary with any political institutions, governments or national football associations,” the statement further added.

On Thursday, reports were stating this year’s Champions League final could be moved away from Istanbul with Portugal once again an option. The final which has been a subject of change was moved away from Istanbul in 2020 after the Covid-19 pandemic. The city was given the right to host the final in 2021, but with Covid-19 at its peak, the final was shifted to Porto. In 2022, the final was again shifted due to the Russia-Ukraine war with St. Petersburg final getting staged in Paris.

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The primary reason for the rumours was the political unrest in the nation with Presidential elections on the agenda. There is a tight race between incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Republican People's Party, or CHP in the elections.

The finalists of the Champions League will be discovered next week after the conclusion of the second leg. As things stand, Real Madrid and Manchester City will start the second leg at 1-1 while Inter have a 2-0 lead against city rivals AC Milan. The winner of both ties will board their flight to Istanbul on June 10 and be crowned the champions of Europe.

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The Champions League final for the 2022-23 season will be staged at Istanbul’s Atatürk Olympic Stadium after UEFA stated on Friday, May 12. Earlier reports were stating that the Champions League final could be moved away from the Turkish capital with political unrest being a major reason.

The Champions League final for the 2022-23 season will be staged at Istanbul’s Atatürk Olympic Stadium after UEFA stated on Friday, May 12. Earlier reports were stating that the Champions League final could be moved away from the Turkish capital with political unrest being a major reason. However, with UEFA issuing a statement it is now confirmed that this year’s showpiece will be staged by Istanbul, waving away speculations about another venue change. "UEFA would like to clarify the position on the 2023 Champions League final," a UEFA statement said. "The 2023 UEFA Champions League final will take place in Istanbul as scheduled, on 10 June 2023. UEFA has no discussions to the contrary with any political institutions, governments or national football associations,” the statement further added. On Thursday, reports were stating this year’s Champions League final could be moved away from Istanbul with Portugal once again an option. The final which has been a subject of change was moved away from Istanbul in 2020 after the Covid-19 pandemic. The city was given the right to host the final in 2021, but with Covid-19 at its peak, the final was shifted to Porto. In 2022, the final was again shifted due to the Russia-Ukraine war with St. Petersburg final getting staged in Paris. ALSO READ | WTC Final: ‘Would’ve selected Yashasvi Jaiswal as Rahul’s replacement’ - Michael Vaughan's big remark The primary reason for the rumours was the political unrest in the nation with Presidential elections on the agenda. There is a tight race between incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the leader of the Republican People's Party, or CHP in the elections. The finalists of the Champions League will be discovered next week after the conclusion of the second leg. As things stand, Real Madrid and Manchester City will start the second leg at 1-1 while Inter have a 2-0 lead against city rivals AC Milan. The winner of both ties will board their flight to Istanbul on June 10 and be crowned the champions of Europe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Champions League final to stay in Istanbul despite political unrest - UEFA

Aleksander Ceferin has been re-elected as the president of the UEFA after going unopposed in the latest European football governing body meet in Lisbon on Wednesday, April 5. Ceferin at the helm of European football since 2016 as the president will serve a term till 2027 and will oversee the new format of the Champions League with 36 teams set to take part in the competition in 2024.

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2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣7️⃣ UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has been re-elected for a further four-year term at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UEFACongress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UEFACongress</a> in Lisbon. <a href="https://t.co/zliYcPZd2H">pic.twitter.com/zliYcPZd2H</a>
— UEFA (@UEFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/UEFA/status/1643556961223311360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The 55-year-old Slovenian lawyer, elected in 2016 following the downfall of Frenchman Michel Platini, was assured of a further four years in the role despite a turbulent second term overshadowed by the breakaway European Super League project.

The UEFA Congress in the Portuguese capital came just a few weeks after Gianni Infantino was re-elected as president of FIFA, also unopposed.

Ceferin will see the introduction of a new format for the UEFA Champions League starting in 2024, which will see the so-called "Swiss system" model adopted for a group stage featuring 36 clubs, up from the current 32.

Ceferin, who has also recently hinted at softening rules that currently prevent clubs with the same owners from facing each other in European competitions, can expect to face questions on these issues.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-unbeliveable-david-warner-survives-snorter-from-shami-in-dc-vs-gt-579258">IPL 2023: UNBELIEVABLE! David Warner survives snorter from Shami in DC vs GT - WATCH</a>

Apart from the Champions League revamp, the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules is also on the agenda of the president which will see clubs forced to limit spending on player and staff wages, transfers and agents fees to 70 percent of total revenues by 2025/26.

Apart from that, Barcelona’s referring scandal and the possible exclusion of Belarus from the UEFA competitions is also in the plans. Belarus is in support of Russia in its war against Ukraine and has been prompted to be excluded like Russia. Belarus is involved in the qualifiers for Euro 2024, which began with defeats against Switzerland and Romania last month.

On Tuesday, UEFA also announced Switzerland as the host of the Women’s Euro 2025.

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Aleksander Ceferin has been re-elected as the president of the UEFA after going unopposed in the latest European football governing body meet in Lisbon on Wednesday, April 5.

Aleksander Ceferin has been re-elected as the president of the UEFA after going unopposed in the latest European football governing body meet in Lisbon on Wednesday, April 5. Ceferin at the helm of European football since 2016 as the president will serve a term till 2027 and will oversee the new format of the Champions League with 36 teams set to take part in the competition in 2024. 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣7️⃣ UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin has been re-elected for a further four-year term at #UEFACongress in Lisbon. pic.twitter.com/zliYcPZd2H — UEFA (@UEFA) April 5, 2023 × The 55-year-old Slovenian lawyer, elected in 2016 following the downfall of Frenchman Michel Platini, was assured of a further four years in the role despite a turbulent second term overshadowed by the breakaway European Super League project. The UEFA Congress in the Portuguese capital came just a few weeks after Gianni Infantino was re-elected as president of FIFA, also unopposed. Ceferin will see the introduction of a new format for the UEFA Champions League starting in 2024, which will see the so-called "Swiss system" model adopted for a group stage featuring 36 clubs, up from the current 32. Ceferin, who has also recently hinted at softening rules that currently prevent clubs with the same owners from facing each other in European competitions, can expect to face questions on these issues. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: UNBELIEVABLE! David Warner survives snorter from Shami in DC vs GT - WATCH Apart from the Champions League revamp, the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules is also on the agenda of the president which will see clubs forced to limit spending on player and staff wages, transfers and agents fees to 70 percent of total revenues by 2025/26. Apart from that, Barcelona’s referring scandal and the possible exclusion of Belarus from the UEFA competitions is also in the plans. Belarus is in support of Russia in its war against Ukraine and has been prompted to be excluded like Russia. Belarus is involved in the qualifiers for Euro 2024, which began with defeats against Switzerland and Romania last month. On Tuesday, UEFA also announced Switzerland as the host of the Women’s Euro 2025. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Aleksander Ceferin re-elected unopposed as UEFA president until 2027; to oversee new format of CL in 2024

Switzerland will host the 2025 Women's European Championship, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday (April 4). Switzerland last hosted a major soccer tournament in 2008, staging that year's edition of the men's Euros along with neighbours Austria.

"This is a historic day for Switzerland, the SFA and women's football," Swiss FA president Dominique Blanc said in a statement.

"This major step will shape the development of women's football at all levels."

The Swiss FA said it would set up a body responsible for the organisation of the event, adding that the "first workshops and visits to the venues with UEFA are already planned for April and May".

"The tournament will take place over four weeks in June and July 2025 at the planned venues of Basel, Bern, Geneva, Zurich, St. Gallen, Sion, Lucerne and Thun," the Swiss FA said.

"The existing infrastructure will be used (or, as in the case of the turf base in Thun and Berne, modified) and the construction of additional stadiums, hotels or training grounds is not necessary according to the current state of knowledge."

AL SO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-come-and-bowl-ms-dhoni-has-asked-you-to-return-s-sreesanth-reveals-untold-tale-from-cwc11-final-578927">Just come and bowl, MS Dhoni has asked you to return: S Sreesanth reveals untold tale from CWC'11 final</a>

In October, UEFA said it had received four bids to host the tournament, including bids from France and Poland as well as a joint bid from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

"We believe we submitted a good application with a clear plan on how to create the best Euros ever," Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness said.

"We always knew that the competition would be tough, and we can only congratulate Switzerland who came away with the victory."

Ukraine had also expressed interest in hosting the event before the Russian invasion.

The previous edition of the tournament was held in England in 2022, where the hosts won the title after beating Germany in the final at Wembley Stadium.

Last year's tournament, which was postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, had a projected global cumulative live viewership of 365 million, while a record crowd of 87,192 were at Wembley for the final.

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Switzerland will host the 2025 Women's European Championship, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday (April 4). Switzerland last hosted a major soccer tournament in 2008, staging that year's edition of the men's Euros along with neighbours Austria.

Switzerland will host the 2025 Women's European Championship, European soccer's governing body UEFA said on Tuesday (April 4). Switzerland last hosted a major soccer tournament in 2008, staging that year's edition of the men's Euros along with neighbours Austria. "This is a historic day for Switzerland, the SFA and women's football," Swiss FA president Dominique Blanc said in a statement. "This major step will shape the development of women's football at all levels." The Swiss FA said it would set up a body responsible for the organisation of the event, adding that the "first workshops and visits to the venues with UEFA are already planned for April and May". "The tournament will take place over four weeks in June and July 2025 at the planned venues of Basel, Bern, Geneva, Zurich, St. Gallen, Sion, Lucerne and Thun," the Swiss FA said. "The existing infrastructure will be used (or, as in the case of the turf base in Thun and Berne, modified) and the construction of additional stadiums, hotels or training grounds is not necessary according to the current state of knowledge." AL SO READ | Just come and bowl, MS Dhoni has asked you to return: S Sreesanth reveals untold tale from CWC'11 final In October, UEFA said it had received four bids to host the tournament, including bids from France and Poland as well as a joint bid from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. "We believe we submitted a good application with a clear plan on how to create the best Euros ever," Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness said. "We always knew that the competition would be tough, and we can only congratulate Switzerland who came away with the victory." Ukraine had also expressed interest in hosting the event before the Russian invasion. The previous edition of the tournament was held in England in 2022, where the hosts won the title after beating Germany in the final at Wembley Stadium. Last year's tournament, which was postponed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, had a projected global cumulative live viewership of 365 million, while a record crowd of 87,192 were at Wembley for the final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UEFA announce Switzerland as hosts for women's Euro 2025, to stage first major tournament since 2008

European football's governing body UEFA said on Thursday it was launching an investigation into claims Barcelona paid for favourable refereeing decisions. UEFA said its ethics and disciplinary inspectors would probe "a potential violation of UEFA's legal framework by FC Barcelona in connection with the so-called 'Caso Negreira'", referring to the Spanish league's former refereeing chief Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira.

Barcelona have already been charged with corruption by Spanish prosecutors for payments between 2001 and 2018 to a company owned by Negreira, totalling around 7.3 million euros ($7.95 million). The club say they were paying for reports and advice on refereeing but prosecutors have accused the club of seeking to gain favourable decision-making from officials.

Charges were filed earlier this month against the club, Negreira and two former Barcelona presidents, Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu, among others. Negreira, a former referee, was the vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation between 1994 and 2018.

The investigation began after Spain's tax authorities identified irregularities in tax payments made between 2016 and 2018 by the company Dasnil 95, owned by Negreira. 
 
Dasnil 95 reportedly received payments from Barcelona between those years. The last invoice was issued in June 2018. After that the refereeing committee was restructured and Negreira left the organisation. Joan Laporta, the current Barcelona president, has insisted his club is innocent.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-ipl-teammates-virat-kohli-and-marcus-stoinis-collide-during-india-australia-chennai-odi-watch-574907">Former IPL teammates Virat Kohli and Marcus Stoinis collide during India-Australia Chennai ODI - WATCH</a>

"Let it be clear Barca have never bought referees and Barca have never had the intention of buying referees, absolutely never," he said.

La Liga president Javier Tebas has previously said Barcelona faced no immediate danger because the governing bodies of Spanish, European and world football all have five-year statutes of limitations. On the criminal level, the accused could face up to four years in prison. The case has caused tensions between Barcelona and old rivals Real Madrid, with the latter's president, Florentino Perez, not travelling to the Camp Nou for last weekend's Clasico, which was won by the Catalans.

Real Madrid have confirmed they will appear in the case as an "injured party" to defend their interests. Relations between the two rival clubs seemed to be improving of late, as they looked to launch a European Super League project together in 2021 and remain set on the idea.

European football's governing body UEFA said on Thursday it was launching an investigation into claims Barcelona paid for favourable refereeing decisions. UEFA said its ethics and disciplinary inspectors would probe "a potential violation of UEFA's legal framework by FC Barcelona in connection with the so-called 'Caso Negreira'", referring to the Spanish league's former refereeing chief Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira.

European football's governing body UEFA said on Thursday it was launching an investigation into claims Barcelona paid for favourable refereeing decisions. UEFA said its ethics and disciplinary inspectors would probe "a potential violation of UEFA's legal framework by FC Barcelona in connection with the so-called 'Caso Negreira'", referring to the Spanish league's former refereeing chief Jose Maria Enriquez Negreira. Barcelona have already been charged with corruption by Spanish prosecutors for payments between 2001 and 2018 to a company owned by Negreira, totalling around 7.3 million euros ($7.95 million). The club say they were paying for reports and advice on refereeing but prosecutors have accused the club of seeking to gain favourable decision-making from officials. Charges were filed earlier this month against the club, Negreira and two former Barcelona presidents, Sandro Rosell and Josep Maria Bartomeu, among others. Negreira, a former referee, was the vice president of the refereeing committee of the Spanish football federation between 1994 and 2018. The investigation began after Spain's tax authorities identified irregularities in tax payments made between 2016 and 2018 by the company Dasnil 95, owned by Negreira. Dasnil 95 reportedly received payments from Barcelona between those years. The last invoice was issued in June 2018. After that the refereeing committee was restructured and Negreira left the organisation. Joan Laporta, the current Barcelona president, has insisted his club is innocent. ALSO READ | Former IPL teammates Virat Kohli and Marcus Stoinis collide during India-Australia Chennai ODI - WATCH "Let it be clear Barca have never bought referees and Barca have never had the intention of buying referees, absolutely never," he said. La Liga president Javier Tebas has previously said Barcelona faced no immediate danger because the governing bodies of Spanish, European and world football all have five-year statutes of limitations. On the criminal level, the accused could face up to four years in prison. The case has caused tensions between Barcelona and old rivals Real Madrid, with the latter's president, Florentino Perez, not travelling to the Camp Nou for last weekend's Clasico, which was won by the Catalans. Real Madrid have confirmed they will appear in the case as an "injured party" to defend their interests. Relations between the two rival clubs seemed to be improving of late, as they looked to launch a European Super League project together in 2021 and remain set on the idea.

Barcelona referee scandal: UEFA to launch probe for potential violation of legal framework

The 2022/23 UEFA Champions League quarter-final and semi-final draws have been made, throwing up plenty of intrigue. Watch this report to know more.

UEFA Champions League quarter-final and semi-final draw | WION Sports

Real Madrid will not co-operate with UEFA's refund procedure for fans who attended last year's Champions League final, the LaLiga club said on Thursday (March 9), stating that the compensation proposed by the governing body is "insufficient". The final in Paris was delayed by 36 minutes after thousands of Liverpool supporters were unable to get into the Stade de France for the match on May 28, which Real Madrid won 1-0.

<h3>What is the case?</h3>

French police were filmed using tear gas on fans, including women and children. Although UEFA initially blamed the Merseyside club's fans for the mayhem, the governing body later apologised following the release of an independent review.

On Tuesday (March 7), UEFA said it would refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's final in Paris and that the English club had confirmed it would implement the refund scheme, which would cover all of the club's ticket allocation for the final.

UEFA said Real Madrid fans and neutral supporters who met the refund criteria would be processed via its customer service. Tickets for the final cost between 62 pounds ($74) to 610 pounds ($733).

"Real Madrid has been holding talks with UEFA with the aim of assessing the compensation that will be offered to the fans," Madrid said in a statement.

"Our club was entirely confident that these solutions would be in line with the seriousness of the events, the extent of the damage caused and UEFA's responsibility for them.

"Regrettably, our club believes that UEFA's proposal ... is insufficient. It merely consists of the reimbursement of the ticket price, which is also subject to the fulfilment of a series of requirements, including providing proof of the time of access to the stadium."

UEFA did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Madrid added that an online assistance service would be set up for fans to make "appropriate claims" against UEFA.

"... All the fans experienced an unacceptable delay in the start of the match. In addition, there was unacceptable insecurity both in accessing and leaving the stadium, as well as additional harm such as theft, assaults and threats," Madrid said.

"For this reason, Real Madrid has decided not to cooperate in the restricted compensation procedure proposed by UEFA, which we ask to redress the situation and assume its full responsibility."

<h3>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanjay-manjrekar-plays-down-sri-lankas-ability-to-beat-new-zealand-backs-india-to-reach-wtc-final-570212">Sanjay Manjrekar plays down Sri Lanka's ability to beat New Zealand, backs India to reach WTC final</a></h3>

<h3>Real’s season so far</h3>

The Spanish side are currently leading the two-legged Champions League Round of 16 tie by 5-2 after beating Liverpool at Anfield. They are destined to play in the quarterfinal unless Jurgen Klopp’s side produces some extraordinary display in the second leg next week. Real are currently trailing Barcelona in both domestic competitions after losing the first leg of the Copa del Rey by 0-1 while trailing by nine points in La Liga.

Real Madrid will not co-operate with UEFA's refund procedure for fans who attended last year's Champions League final, the LaLiga club said on Thursday (March 9), stating that the compensation proposed by the governing body is "insufficient".

Real Madrid will not co-operate with UEFA's refund procedure for fans who attended last year's Champions League final, the LaLiga club said on Thursday (March 9), stating that the compensation proposed by the governing body is "insufficient". The final in Paris was delayed by 36 minutes after thousands of Liverpool supporters were unable to get into the Stade de France for the match on May 28, which Real Madrid won 1-0. What is the case? French police were filmed using tear gas on fans, including women and children. Although UEFA initially blamed the Merseyside club's fans for the mayhem, the governing body later apologised following the release of an independent review. On Tuesday (March 7), UEFA said it would refund Liverpool fans who attended last year's final in Paris and that the English club had confirmed it would implement the refund scheme, which would cover all of the club's ticket allocation for the final. UEFA said Real Madrid fans and neutral supporters who met the refund criteria would be processed via its customer service. Tickets for the final cost between 62 pounds ($74) to 610 pounds ($733). "Real Madrid has been holding talks with UEFA with the aim of assessing the compensation that will be offered to the fans," Madrid said in a statement. "Our club was entirely confident that these solutions would be in line with the seriousness of the events, the extent of the damage caused and UEFA's responsibility for them. "Regrettably, our club believes that UEFA's proposal ... is insufficient. It merely consists of the reimbursement of the ticket price, which is also subject to the fulfilment of a series of requirements, including providing proof of the time of access to the stadium." UEFA did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Madrid added that an online assistance service would be set up for fans to make "appropriate claims" against UEFA. "... All the fans experienced an unacceptable delay in the start of the match. In addition, there was unacceptable insecurity both in accessing and leaving the stadium, as well as additional harm such as theft, assaults and threats," Madrid said. "For this reason, Real Madrid has decided not to cooperate in the restricted compensation procedure proposed by UEFA, which we ask to redress the situation and assume its full responsibility." ALSO READ | Sanjay Manjrekar plays down Sri Lanka's ability to beat New Zealand, backs India to reach WTC final Real’s season so far The Spanish side are currently leading the two-legged Champions League Round of 16 tie by 5-2 after beating Liverpool at Anfield. They are destined to play in the quarterfinal unless Jurgen Klopp’s side produces some extraordinary display in the second leg next week. Real are currently trailing Barcelona in both domestic competitions after losing the first leg of the Copa del Rey by 0-1 while trailing by nine points in La Liga.

Real Madrid term UEFA's 2022 CL final compensation as 'insufficient'; vow to not cooperate with procedure

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