Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

With all games in the recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans.

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However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice.

However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans.&nbsp;

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“While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-maguire-and-victor-lindelof-contrasting-tales-of-two-manchester-united-defenders-322998" hreflang="en">Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders</a>

“We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added.

The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24. 
&nbsp;

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors.

Fans will be back inside the stadiums as UEFA on Tuesday announced that Super Cup match between Bayern Munich and Sevilla, scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24 won’t be played behind closed doors. With all games in the recent Champions League and Europa League final-stage mini-tournaments were held in front of empty stands, UEFA’s executive committee agreed to the idea of having 30 per cent of the 67,215 capacity Puskas Arena in Budapest can be allotted to the fans. ALSO READ: Champions League 2019-20: PSG become the most Tweeted about team on Twitter However, UEFA said that all other matches under the governing body, including the upcoming Nation League matches and club competition qualifiers, will continue to be held behind closed doors until further notice. However, it is still unclear whether travelling supporters will be able to attend the UEFA Super Cup or only local fans will be allowed with the European body viewing the match as the best test for their ‘Return to Play’ plans. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “While it has been important to show that football can carry on in difficult times, without fans, the game has lost something of its character. We hope to use the UEFA Super Cup in Budapest as a pilot that will begin to see the return of fans to our matches,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. ALSO READ: Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof: Contrasting tales of two Manchester United defenders “We are working closely with the Hungarian Federation and its government to implement measures to ensure the health of all those attending and participating in the game. We will not take risks with people’s safety,” he added. The UEFA Super Cup is traditionally Europa’s international club season opener, featuring previous season’s Champions League winner against the Europa League winner. While Bayern Munich defeated PSG in the Champions League, Sevilla overcame Inter Milan to lift the Europa League. Bayern Munich versus Sevilla is scheduled to be held in Budapest on September 24.

Bayern Munich vs Sevilla: UEFA to allow fans to attend Super Cup in Budapest

UEFA is set to decide the road map to conclude the 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League competitions which have been put on hold since March due to COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA in its statement, on Thursday, said that the executive committee would meet via video-conference on June 17 with the top agenda being “round of 16 onwards and related determinations” for both the top European competitions.

The Champions League final was originally slated to be played in Istanbul with the Europa League summit clash scheduled in Gdansk, Poland. However, UEFA has already confirmed that a “variety of options” were being looked in a bid to conclude the two tournaments.

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These could include playing the remaining rounds of matches in a single venue and cut the quarter-final and semis to one leg matches instead of traditional two. However, Champions League would need to complete the remaining four Champions League round of 16 matches with Atletico Madrid, Paris St Germain, Atalanta and RB Leipzig already qualified for the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

Whereas in Europa League, two round of 16 first-leg matches still needs to be played with all the second legs still pending.

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The Mayor of Madrid has already confirmed that the Spanish capital is in talks about hosting the UCL final if there is any shift.

The UEFA executive committee meeting will also discuss the schedule and venues for the EURO 2020 which was postponed until 2021. The 24-team competition will be played across 12 cities across Europe.

UEFA is set to decide the road map to conclude the 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League competitions which have been put on hold since March due to COVID-19 pandemic.

UEFA is set to decide the road map to conclude the 2019-20 Champions League and Europa League competitions which have been put on hold since March due to COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA in its statement, on Thursday, said that the executive committee would meet via video-conference on June 17 with the top agenda being “round of 16 onwards and related determinations” for both the top European competitions. The Champions League final was originally slated to be played in Istanbul with the Europa League summit clash scheduled in Gdansk, Poland. However, UEFA has already confirmed that a “variety of options” were being looked in a bid to conclude the two tournaments. ALSO READ: Premier League clubs post record revenue but face COVID-19 impact - report These could include playing the remaining rounds of matches in a single venue and cut the quarter-final and semis to one leg matches instead of traditional two. However, Champions League would need to complete the remaining four Champions League round of 16 matches with Atletico Madrid, Paris St Germain, Atalanta and RB Leipzig already qualified for the quarterfinals. Whereas in Europa League, two round of 16 first-leg matches still needs to be played with all the second legs still pending. ALSO READ: Premier League: One new coronavirus case from 1213 tests The Mayor of Madrid has already confirmed that the Spanish capital is in talks about hosting the UCL final if there is any shift. The UEFA executive committee meeting will also discuss the schedule and venues for the EURO 2020 which was postponed until 2021. The 24-team competition will be played across 12 cities across Europe.

UEFA to decide Champions League, Europa League conclusion on June 17

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.

UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign.

A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format."

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UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline

UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August.

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A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it.

UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday 
&nbsp;

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds.

UEFA has asked the Premier League and other European leagues to come up with a definite plan on how they plan to conclude the halted-season by May 25. The dreaded virus has wiped out the entire sporting calendar with the resumption of live action under dark clouds. UEFA president Aleksander Caferin and general secretary Theodore Theodoridis have had talks with the Premier League and other leagues in Europe as they asked them to chalk out a detailed plan on how they want to conclude the current campaign. A statement from European football's governing body said: "National Associations and/or Leagues should be in a position to communicate to UEFA by May 25, 2020, the planned restart of their domestic competitions — including the date of restart and the competition format." ALSO READ: Exclusive: Mike Tyson's business partner Alki David confident of acquiring naming rights of Barcelona's Nou Camp, says "ready to help the club in every possible way" UEFA has asked clubs to communicate a plan by May 25 as to how they plan to restart domestic competitions. The footballing body has also asked association such as the Dutch FA, to "explain the special circumstances justifying such premature termination" by the same deadline UEFA’s Executive Committee will next hold a conference call on May 27 to take a concrete call on whether European competitions can be completed in August. ALSO READ: Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61 A UEFA working group has made ‘strong recommendation’ on completing domestic season but the authorities would prefer halted domestic competitions to restart ‘with a different format’ rather than cancelling it. UEFA has also asked the 12 host cities of next summer's delayed European Championship to confirm their participation by Thursday

UEFA gives Premier League and other European leagues May 25 deadline for restart proposals

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italys-sports-minister-says-caution-needed-over-return-to-football-294197" hreflang="en">Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football</a>

This decision has come after the men's Euros and Tokyo Olympics were postponed until 2021 due to the on-going coronavirus.&nbsp;

UEFA has come out to confirm the news, they even plan the venues of the event remain the same.&nbsp;

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has decided to postpone the event as the competition should get the "spotlight it deserves".&nbsp;

He said: &nbsp;"By moving to the following year, we are ensuring that our flagship women's competition will be the only major football tournament of the summer."

UEFA's chief of women football, Nadine Kessler said: "This decision puts us in a position to deliver a tournament that attracts global attention, maximises media coverage and increases stadium attendances, and is, therefore, helping us to meet our core objective of inspiring the next generation of footballers.

"2022 also allows for further promotion and partner activation, which would have been much more difficult in what is now a crowded summer in 2021."

The Football Association's director of women's football, Baroness Sue Campbell said: "We are also grateful to the Commonwealth Games Federation for its collaboration as we sought to confirm these new dates, and look forward to working together to showcase the best of women's sport across both of our events."

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022.

The coronavirus pandemic has sent shockwaves to the sporting world and the turbulence are meant for at least a couple of years. The women's European Championship which was supposed to be held in 2021 will now be held from 6-31 July 2022. Also read: Italy's sports minister says caution needed over return to football This decision has come after the men's Euros and Tokyo Olympics were postponed until 2021 due to the on-going coronavirus. UEFA has come out to confirm the news, they even plan the venues of the event remain the same. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has decided to postpone the event as the competition should get the "spotlight it deserves". He said: "By moving to the following year, we are ensuring that our flagship women's competition will be the only major football tournament of the summer." UEFA's chief of women football, Nadine Kessler said: "This decision puts us in a position to deliver a tournament that attracts global attention, maximises media coverage and increases stadium attendances, and is, therefore, helping us to meet our core objective of inspiring the next generation of footballers. "2022 also allows for further promotion and partner activation, which would have been much more difficult in what is now a crowded summer in 2021." The Football Association's director of women's football, Baroness Sue Campbell said: "We are also grateful to the Commonwealth Games Federation for its collaboration as we sought to confirm these new dates, and look forward to working together to showcase the best of women's sport across both of our events."

Women's Euro Championship to be held in 2022 instead of 2021: UEFA

UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions.

There are further plans to present a recommendation on the fixture calendar by mid-May with a working group accessing all possible scenarios. A meeting by UEFA’s executive committee is also scheduled to be held on Thursday as the top officials are likely to discuss the leagues which want to end their respective season early.

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Furthermore, cancellation of leagues with UEFA’s approval could see clubs losing out on qualification for the Champions League and Europa League, as the final standings are determined by the league table.

Earlier in April, European leagues were told not to ‘abandon’ their leagues as officials revealed that they were working on plans to resume the season from July.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-commits-to-finishing-season-after-virus-lockdown-293752" hreflang="en">Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown</a>

UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA) and European Leagues (EL) urged everyone to ‘walk united’ as they continue to tackle the rapidly increasing global spread of COVID-19.

There a proposal which would see UEFA Champions League final being pushed back by three months from its original scheduled period at the end of August. The UCL final was originally scheduled to be hosted by Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. 
The Champions League final was due to take place at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. 
&nbsp;

UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions.

UEFA is optimistic about completing the domestic leagues by the end of August as it gears up for a meeting with all 55 associates on Tuesday. All of Europe’s top football officials will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with some of the clubs resuming training under strict restrictions. There are further plans to present a recommendation on the fixture calendar by mid-May with a working group accessing all possible scenarios. A meeting by UEFA’s executive committee is also scheduled to be held on Thursday as the top officials are likely to discuss the leagues which want to end their respective season early. ALSO READ: La Liga, Spanish FA agree training restart protocol Furthermore, cancellation of leagues with UEFA’s approval could see clubs losing out on qualification for the Champions League and Europa League, as the final standings are determined by the league table. Earlier in April, European leagues were told not to ‘abandon’ their leagues as officials revealed that they were working on plans to resume the season from July. ALSO READ: Serie A commits to finishing season after virus lockdown UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA) and European Leagues (EL) urged everyone to ‘walk united’ as they continue to tackle the rapidly increasing global spread of COVID-19. There a proposal which would see UEFA Champions League final being pushed back by three months from its original scheduled period at the end of August. The UCL final was originally scheduled to be hosted by Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30. The Champions League final was due to take place at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 30.

August deadline on agenda as UEFA gears up for meeting with 55 associations

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely.

In a joint letter released late on Thursday, UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA), and the European Leagues body representing nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, said that they were working on the possibility of playing on into July and August if need be.

The Champions League and Europa League -- both of which are currently frozen in the last-16 stage -- could be completed once the domestic seasons are finished, and "stopping competitions should really be the last resort after acknowledging that no calendar alternative would allow to conclude the season."

The joint response came after the Belgian Pro League announced on Thursday that it recommended declaring the current season over already with the present table accepted as final.

It is the first European league to take such a measure, although more could follow.

That means Club Brugge would in theory go straight into the next Champions League group stage, but UEFA, the ECA and the European Leagues indicated that they may be barred from continental competition if the Belgian league decision is finalised.

"It is of paramount importance that even a disruptive event like this epidemic does not prevent our competitions from being decided on the field, in accordance with their rules and that all sporting titles are awarded on the basis of results," the joint letter said.

<h2>- Not justified -</h2>

"We are confident that football can restart in the months to come –- with conditions that will be dictated by public authorities -- and believe that any decision of abandoning domestic competitions is, at this stage, premature and not justified.

"Since participation in UEFA club competitions is determined by the sporting result achieved at the end of a full domestic competition, a premature termination would cast doubts about the fulfilment of such condition."

The letter concluded: "UEFA reserves the right to assess the entitlement of clubs to be admitted to the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions."

UEFA has set up two working groups to devise a way for European football to get out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

One is tasked with looking at the legal and financial consequences of the crisis, while the other is devising a new match calendar. UEFA and the clubs have set themselves a mid-May target for deciding on the most viable option for completing the season.

There have been calls in other countries for this season to be declared null and void, but any option which rules out completing this season could have serious consequences for leagues reliant on huge television deals and who could find themselves having to reimburse broadcasters if remaining matches are not played.

Justifying its decision, the Belgian Pro League said it was "very unlikely" to be able to hold matches in front of crowds before June 30 and that it had "unanimously decided that it was not desirable...to continue the competition" after that date.

The decision still needs to be formally validated at a General Assembly on April 15.

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely.

UEFA and Europe's top clubs have stated their determination that the current football season should be played to a conclusion and threatened that teams may be excluded from the next Champions League if their domestic competitions are ended prematurely. In a joint letter released late on Thursday, UEFA, the European Club Association (ECA), and the European Leagues body representing nearly a thousand clubs in 29 countries, said that they were working on the possibility of playing on into July and August if need be. The Champions League and Europa League -- both of which are currently frozen in the last-16 stage -- could be completed once the domestic seasons are finished, and "stopping competitions should really be the last resort after acknowledging that no calendar alternative would allow to conclude the season." The joint response came after the Belgian Pro League announced on Thursday that it recommended declaring the current season over already with the present table accepted as final. It is the first European league to take such a measure, although more could follow. That means Club Brugge would in theory go straight into the next Champions League group stage, but UEFA, the ECA and the European Leagues indicated that they may be barred from continental competition if the Belgian league decision is finalised. "It is of paramount importance that even a disruptive event like this epidemic does not prevent our competitions from being decided on the field, in accordance with their rules and that all sporting titles are awarded on the basis of results," the joint letter said. - Not justified - "We are confident that football can restart in the months to come –- with conditions that will be dictated by public authorities -- and believe that any decision of abandoning domestic competitions is, at this stage, premature and not justified. "Since participation in UEFA club competitions is determined by the sporting result achieved at the end of a full domestic competition, a premature termination would cast doubts about the fulfilment of such condition." The letter concluded: "UEFA reserves the right to assess the entitlement of clubs to be admitted to the 2020/21 UEFA club competitions." UEFA has set up two working groups to devise a way for European football to get out of the crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. One is tasked with looking at the legal and financial consequences of the crisis, while the other is devising a new match calendar. UEFA and the clubs have set themselves a mid-May target for deciding on the most viable option for completing the season. There have been calls in other countries for this season to be declared null and void, but any option which rules out completing this season could have serious consequences for leagues reliant on huge television deals and who could find themselves having to reimburse broadcasters if remaining matches are not played. Justifying its decision, the Belgian Pro League said it was "very unlikely" to be able to hold matches in front of crowds before June 30 and that it had "unanimously decided that it was not desirable...to continue the competition" after that date. The decision still needs to be formally validated at a General Assembly on April 15.

UEFA warn clubs risk Champions League exclusion if seasons are not completed

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund.&nbsp;

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🚀 THAT thunderbolt by Erling Haaland 😱 
 
🤔 A <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOTW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOTW</a> contender?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NissanFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NissanFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sha23D5z8O">pic.twitter.com/Sha23D5z8O</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1229908507694116864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The match became exciting in the second half after Haaland smashed a stunning close-range goal for Borussia in the 69th-minute, however, it looked like PSG would leave Dortmund with a tie in the first leg after Neymar scored in the 75th minute. But Haaland's 77th-minute goal was the match decider.&nbsp;

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🇳🇴 Erling Braut Haaland = 1st teenager to score 10 in a single campaign in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> history 👏👏👏 <a href="https://t.co/6zAbGwQsBE">pic.twitter.com/6zAbGwQsBE</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1229914960052047872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 19-year old, 6ft 3 inches, is leading the top scorer's list after scoring 10 goals and 1 assist in the last seven&nbsp;matches. Lewandowski has scored the same number of goals (10) but has no assist.&nbsp;

Haaland told UEFA.com, "I feel like I still can do a lot better. I have to play better at this level, have to work hard to improve,".

The prolific Norwegian striker was adjudged the man of the match for his stellar performance against PSG.

Borussia Dortmund will still be precautious as they face Paris Saint Germain on their home turf in the next leg.

Haaland said: "The result is quite a dangerous one, as Paris has a very strong team and can still go through in the return leg."

Haaland has been a recent signing for Dortmund, they bought the young lad for 20 million euros from Salzburg during the winter transfer window.&nbsp;

He scored 28 goals in 22 games for Salzburg. The Leeds-born player now has 11 goals in just seven outings for his new club.

Haaland threatens Mbappe's record of scoring 19 Champions League goals before turning 21.&nbsp;

The $434 million line-up of Paris Saint Germain will eye to overturn the scoreline in the second leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League. 
&nbsp;

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund.

Borussia Dortmund's teen sensation Erling Braut Haaland managed to outshine world's two most expensive players as the young gun scored a brace in 2-1 victory against Paris Saint Germain in the first leg of the round of 16 clashes in the Champions League at Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund. 🚀 THAT thunderbolt by Erling Haaland 😱 🤔 A #GOTW contender?#UCL | @NissanFootball pic.twitter.com/Sha23D5z8O — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 18, 2020 × The match became exciting in the second half after Haaland smashed a stunning close-range goal for Borussia in the 69th-minute, however, it looked like PSG would leave Dortmund with a tie in the first leg after Neymar scored in the 75th minute. But Haaland's 77th-minute goal was the match decider. 🇳🇴 Erling Braut Haaland = 1st teenager to score 10 in a single campaign in #UCL history 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/6zAbGwQsBE — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 18, 2020 × The 19-year old, 6ft 3 inches, is leading the top scorer's list after scoring 10 goals and 1 assist in the last seven matches. Lewandowski has scored the same number of goals (10) but has no assist. Haaland told UEFA.com, "I feel like I still can do a lot better. I have to play better at this level, have to work hard to improve,". The prolific Norwegian striker was adjudged the man of the match for his stellar performance against PSG. Borussia Dortmund will still be precautious as they face Paris Saint Germain on their home turf in the next leg. Haaland said: "The result is quite a dangerous one, as Paris has a very strong team and can still go through in the return leg." Haaland has been a recent signing for Dortmund, they bought the young lad for 20 million euros from Salzburg during the winter transfer window. He scored 28 goals in 22 games for Salzburg. The Leeds-born player now has 11 goals in just seven outings for his new club. Haaland threatens Mbappe's record of scoring 19 Champions League goals before turning 21. The $434 million line-up of Paris Saint Germain will eye to overturn the scoreline in the second leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League.

Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles

European football's governing body (UEFA) said on Tuesday it would tell member clubs and national teams not to play games in countries where women do not have full access to stadiums.

UEFA's ruling executive committee agreed that it would "recommend to its 55 national associations and all European clubs not to play matches in countries where women have restricted access to stadiums".

UEFA did not specify which countries the action would affect.

Iran, however, has been the focus of attention since a female fan died earlier this month, after setting herself on fire to protest against her arrest for attending a match.

Soccer's world governing body FIFA says it has been given assurances by Iranian authorities that their World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in Tehran on Oct. 10 will be open to women.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said his body did not have the power to punish European teams who might play in countries that do not allow unrestricted access to women, but stressed that there was wide support in his organisation for the approach and for not playing teams from those countries.

"We cannot punish anyone if they play (in these countries) because it is out of our jurisdiction but that doesn't mean we should be quiet and say we can't do anything and we (just) develop European football," said the Slovene.

"Our advice to 55 associations and all the clubs... will be not to play there or with the teams from those countries where the basic rights of women are not respected.

"The representatives of the clubs and the leagues agreed with us".

European football's governing body (UEFA) said on Tuesday it would tell member clubs and national teams not to play games in countries where women do not have full access to stadiums.

European football's governing body (UEFA) said on Tuesday it would tell member clubs and national teams not to play games in countries where women do not have full access to stadiums. UEFA's ruling executive committee agreed that it would "recommend to its 55 national associations and all European clubs not to play matches in countries where women have restricted access to stadiums". UEFA did not specify which countries the action would affect. Iran, however, has been the focus of attention since a female fan died earlier this month, after setting herself on fire to protest against her arrest for attending a match. Soccer's world governing body FIFA says it has been given assurances by Iranian authorities that their World Cup qualifier against Cambodia in Tehran on Oct. 10 will be open to women. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said his body did not have the power to punish European teams who might play in countries that do not allow unrestricted access to women, but stressed that there was wide support in his organisation for the approach and for not playing teams from those countries. "We cannot punish anyone if they play (in these countries) because it is out of our jurisdiction but that doesn't mean we should be quiet and say we can't do anything and we (just) develop European football," said the Slovene. "Our advice to 55 associations and all the clubs... will be not to play there or with the teams from those countries where the basic rights of women are not respected. "The representatives of the clubs and the leagues agreed with us".

UEFA tells teams not to play where women can't watch

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

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

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

Bayern eye at least last eight in Champions League

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

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

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

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

Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again.

Barcelona, Dortmund and Inter, with nine European Cups between them, were drawn together in Group F along with the Czech&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Slavia Prague.

Beaten by Liverpool in the semi-finals last season, Lionel Messi and Barcelona remain favourites to advance as they seek a first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;crown since 2015.

Dortmund won the trophy in 1997 and lost in the final in 2013. Now coached by Antonio Conte, Inter beat Barcelona in the semi-finals en route to winning the most recent of their three titles in 2010.

"That really is a very tough group, which makes it an even bigger challenge for us," said the Dortmund coach, Lucien Favre. His team host Barca in the opening round of matches on Tuesday, September 17.

Liverpool advanced from their group at the expense of Napoli last season on the way to lifting their sixth European Cup in Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti's side now have a chance to gain revenge.

Beaten in Naples a year ago, Liverpool will head back to the San Paolo in their first match on September 17.

Both clubs will be fancied to progress from Group E, which is completed by Austrian&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Salzburg and Genk, the Belgian title-holders.

"Napoli again! I don't know how often I've now played against Napoli, but they're obviously a very experienced side," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who faced the Italians with Dortmund in the 2013-14 group stage.

Liverpool are hoping to return to this year's final which will be played in Istanbul, where they won their fifth title back in 2005.

After losing in last season's final, Tottenham Hotspur can look forward to a meeting with German&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Bayern Munich in Group B.

Tottenham entertain Bayern in London in their second group game on October 1, which will be the first meeting of the clubs since the 1983-84 UEFA Cup. They will then go to Munich in December.

The teams will also meet Greek&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Olympiakos and Red Star Belgrade of Serbia, the 1991 European Cup winners, in Group B.

After winning the Europa&nbsp;League, Chelsea are back in the&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;and can look forward to taking on last season's semi-finalists Ajax as well as former runners-up Valencia and Lille in Group H. Frank Lampard's team kick off at home to Valencia.

Ronaldo 'always confident'

Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Manchester City were handed the kindest draw of all four English representatives, with Pep Guardiola's men coming up against Italian debutants Atalanta along with Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb in Group C.

City beat Shakhtar 3-0 in Ukraine in last season's group stage before a 6-0 victory in the return. The teams meet in Kharkiv in their first game on September 18.

"We have to keep being strong in our country and if we do that, we know we will have a chance in this competition," said Txiki Begiristain, the director of football at City, who have lost in the quarter-finals in the last two seasons.

There will be glamour ties between familiar opponents elsewhere, with Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid renewing acquaintances with Paris Saint-Germain in Group A, the sides meeting in their opening game at the Parc des Princes.

Real eliminated the French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;in the last 16 on the way to winning the trophy two seasons ago.

Turkish&nbsp;champions&nbsp;Galatasaray and Club Brugge of Belgium complete Group A.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus will come up against Atletico Madrid again after beating the Spanish side in the last 16 last season. They will begin their campaign by clashing in Madrid and will also face Bayer Leverkusen and Lokomotiv Moscow in Group D.

"I don't know what's going to happen this year but when the year starts I'm always confident. This year I'm not changing my mind," Ronaldo, whose side lost to Ajax in the quarter-finals last season, told BT Sport.

Perhaps the most balanced section sees Zenit Saint Petersburg, Benfica, Lyon and RB Leipzig clash in Group G.

Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again.

Barcelona will have to come through a section containing both Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan after the three former winners all came out together in Thursday's UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monaco, while holders Liverpool will face Napoli again. Barcelona, Dortmund and Inter, with nine European Cups between them, were drawn together in Group F along with the Czech champions Slavia Prague. Beaten by Liverpool in the semi-finals last season, Lionel Messi and Barcelona remain favourites to advance as they seek a first Champions League crown since 2015. Dortmund won the trophy in 1997 and lost in the final in 2013. Now coached by Antonio Conte, Inter beat Barcelona in the semi-finals en route to winning the most recent of their three titles in 2010. "That really is a very tough group, which makes it an even bigger challenge for us," said the Dortmund coach, Lucien Favre. His team host Barca in the opening round of matches on Tuesday, September 17. Liverpool advanced from their group at the expense of Napoli last season on the way to lifting their sixth European Cup in Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti's side now have a chance to gain revenge. Beaten in Naples a year ago, Liverpool will head back to the San Paolo in their first match on September 17. Both clubs will be fancied to progress from Group E, which is completed by Austrian champions Salzburg and Genk, the Belgian title-holders. "Napoli again! I don't know how often I've now played against Napoli, but they're obviously a very experienced side," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, who faced the Italians with Dortmund in the 2013-14 group stage. Liverpool are hoping to return to this year's final which will be played in Istanbul, where they won their fifth title back in 2005. After losing in last season's final, Tottenham Hotspur can look forward to a meeting with German champions Bayern Munich in Group B. Tottenham entertain Bayern in London in their second group game on October 1, which will be the first meeting of the clubs since the 1983-84 UEFA Cup. They will then go to Munich in December. The teams will also meet Greek champions Olympiakos and Red Star Belgrade of Serbia, the 1991 European Cup winners, in Group B. After winning the Europa League, Chelsea are back in the Champions League and can look forward to taking on last season's semi-finalists Ajax as well as former runners-up Valencia and Lille in Group H. Frank Lampard's team kick off at home to Valencia. Ronaldo 'always confident' Premier League champions Manchester City were handed the kindest draw of all four English representatives, with Pep Guardiola's men coming up against Italian debutants Atalanta along with Shakhtar Donetsk and Dinamo Zagreb in Group C. City beat Shakhtar 3-0 in Ukraine in last season's group stage before a 6-0 victory in the return. The teams meet in Kharkiv in their first game on September 18. "We have to keep being strong in our country and if we do that, we know we will have a chance in this competition," said Txiki Begiristain, the director of football at City, who have lost in the quarter-finals in the last two seasons. There will be glamour ties between familiar opponents elsewhere, with Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid renewing acquaintances with Paris Saint-Germain in Group A, the sides meeting in their opening game at the Parc des Princes. Real eliminated the French champions in the last 16 on the way to winning the trophy two seasons ago. Turkish champions Galatasaray and Club Brugge of Belgium complete Group A. Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus will come up against Atletico Madrid again after beating the Spanish side in the last 16 last season. They will begin their campaign by clashing in Madrid and will also face Bayer Leverkusen and Lokomotiv Moscow in Group D. "I don't know what's going to happen this year but when the year starts I'm always confident. This year I'm not changing my mind," Ronaldo, whose side lost to Ajax in the quarter-finals last season, told BT Sport. Perhaps the most balanced section sees Zenit Saint Petersburg, Benfica, Lyon and RB Leipzig clash in Group G.

Barcelona handed tough Champions League draw as Liverpool face Napoli again

French police released former president of UEFA Michel Platini from custody early on Wednesday. No charges were brought against the former number 10 of Les Bleus after almost 15 hours of questioning.

Michel Platini released, says he is 'at peace'

FIFA's Decision To Host WC2022 In Qatar Being Probed, Michael Platini Has Been Arrested In France Football legend and Former UEFA President Michael Platini has been arrested in France. The arrest is related to FIFA's decision to host the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Platini is facing allegations of cronyism, corruption and favoritism. But the buck doesn't just stop with Platini. So who else is involved? How big is the arrest of Platini? Palki explains

Gravitas: Former UEFA Prez & Football legend Michael Platini arrested

This week's Nations League finals and Euro 2020 qualifiers will not feature changes to the laws of the game which officially came into effect from June, European soccer governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

UEFA said the new rules, including red and yellow cards for team officials and a "clearer" wording of the handball rule, would be introduced into its competitions from June 25 in line with "dispensation" from soccer's rule-making body IFAB.

Other changes to the rules set to be introduced include a ban attacking players disrupting the opposition's defensive wall at free kicks - they must now be one metre away from the wall - and an attempt to cut down on time-wasting by forcing substituted players to leave the pitch at the nearest boundary.

This would stop the practice of substituted players delaying play by wandering across the pitch to their bench and shaking hands with teammates and match officials on the way.

"To avoid any disruption due to limited preparation time and any resulting lack of awareness of the substantial number of changes to the Laws of the Game, UEFA has decided to time the implementation to coincide with the start of the new season," it said in a statement.

UEFA said the changes would be introduced from the preliminary round of the 2019/20 Champions League, starting on June 25, and would feature in the Euro 2020 qualifiers in September.

Under the new handball rules, free kicks will be awarded in some situations even if the handball is clearly accidental.

These include the ball going into the goal after touching an attacking player's hand or arm, a player scoring or creating a scoring chance after gaining control of the ball by using their hand or arm and the ball touching the hand or arm of a player who has made their body "unnaturally bigger".

IFAB says in its guidelines that "football does not accept a goal being scored by a hand/arm (even if accidental)".

However, if a player is falling and the ball touches their hand or arm when it is between their body and the ground, it will not be considered handball. The same will apply when the ball rebounds onto the hand or arm from another part of the player's body.

This week's Nations League finals and Euro 2020 qualifiers will not feature changes to the laws of the game which officially came into effect from June, European soccer governing body UEFA said on Tuesday.

This week's Nations League finals and Euro 2020 qualifiers will not feature changes to the laws of the game which officially came into effect from June, European soccer governing body UEFA said on Tuesday. UEFA said the new rules, including red and yellow cards for team officials and a "clearer" wording of the handball rule, would be introduced into its competitions from June 25 in line with "dispensation" from soccer's rule-making body IFAB. Other changes to the rules set to be introduced include a ban attacking players disrupting the opposition's defensive wall at free kicks - they must now be one metre away from the wall - and an attempt to cut down on time-wasting by forcing substituted players to leave the pitch at the nearest boundary. This would stop the practice of substituted players delaying play by wandering across the pitch to their bench and shaking hands with teammates and match officials on the way. "To avoid any disruption due to limited preparation time and any resulting lack of awareness of the substantial number of changes to the Laws of the Game, UEFA has decided to time the implementation to coincide with the start of the new season," it said in a statement. UEFA said the changes would be introduced from the preliminary round of the 2019/20 Champions League, starting on June 25, and would feature in the Euro 2020 qualifiers in September. Under the new handball rules, free kicks will be awarded in some situations even if the handball is clearly accidental. These include the ball going into the goal after touching an attacking player's hand or arm, a player scoring or creating a scoring chance after gaining control of the ball by using their hand or arm and the ball touching the hand or arm of a player who has made their body "unnaturally bigger". IFAB says in its guidelines that "football does not accept a goal being scored by a hand/arm (even if accidental)". However, if a player is falling and the ball touches their hand or arm when it is between their body and the ground, it will not be considered handball. The same will apply when the ball rebounds onto the hand or arm from another part of the player's body.

UEFA confirms new laws will not be implemented at Nations League

Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will be used at this week's UEFA Nations League finals in Portugal, Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said on Monday.

VAR, which allows incidents to be reviewed with the help of video replays, was used at last year's World Cup in Russia and this season's Champions League knockout stages and will also be part of the English Premier League from next season.

UEFA briefed the coaches of Nations League semi-finalists Portugal, England, Switzerland and the Netherlands about VAR in April and England manager Gareth Southgate has welcomed its use in the competition.

"You'll never get a system that is 100% fail-safe but the key decisions that are clear and obvious have been rectified," Southgate said. "My feeling... is that in the main the big decisions have been right."

The main criticisms of VAR are the amount of time it takes for decisions to be reviewed and that fans inside the stadium are left in the dark while the referee looks at replays on the sidelines.

Netherlands coach Ronaldo Koeman said the system still had room for improvement.

"VAR is a good help to make football fairer and most of the mistakes will be corrected. That of course is a good thing," Koeman said.

"We must realize, however, that discussions will continue to exist, because you can often interpret actions in multiple ways. I am in favour of the VAR tackling the big, obvious issues only, rather than to search endlessly for potential errors."

England face the Netherlands in the Nations League semi-finals on June 6, a day after hosts Portugal play Switzerland in the first semi-final.

Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will be used at this week's UEFA Nations League finals in Portugal, Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said on Monday. VAR, which allows incidents to be reviewed with the help of video replays, was used at last year's World Cup in Russia and this season's Champions League knockout stages and will also be part of the English Premier League from next season.

Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will be used at this week's UEFA Nations League finals in Portugal, Europe's soccer governing body UEFA said on Monday. VAR, which allows incidents to be reviewed with the help of video replays, was used at last year's World Cup in Russia and this season's Champions League knockout stages and will also be part of the English Premier League from next season. UEFA briefed the coaches of Nations League semi-finalists Portugal, England, Switzerland and the Netherlands about VAR in April and England manager Gareth Southgate has welcomed its use in the competition. "You'll never get a system that is 100% fail-safe but the key decisions that are clear and obvious have been rectified," Southgate said. "My feeling... is that in the main the big decisions have been right." The main criticisms of VAR are the amount of time it takes for decisions to be reviewed and that fans inside the stadium are left in the dark while the referee looks at replays on the sidelines. Netherlands coach Ronaldo Koeman said the system still had room for improvement. "VAR is a good help to make football fairer and most of the mistakes will be corrected. That of course is a good thing," Koeman said. "We must realize, however, that discussions will continue to exist, because you can often interpret actions in multiple ways. I am in favour of the VAR tackling the big, obvious issues only, rather than to search endlessly for potential errors." England face the Netherlands in the Nations League semi-finals on June 6, a day after hosts Portugal play Switzerland in the first semi-final.

VAR to be used in Nations League finals week, says UEFA

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

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

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

Champions League: Liverpool and Tottenham set for the final showdown

Lionel Messi left Anfield in tears after Barcelona's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">humiliating 0-4 defeat to Liverpool</a> in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg that saw them miss out on a place in the final.&nbsp;

In a similar fashion, Barcelona were ousted last season in the quarter-finals. The Catalans beat Roma 4-1 at home but collapsed in the away leg to lose 3-0 in Rome and go out on away goals.&nbsp;

As per the reports, Messi was inconsolable in the Barcelona dressing room and he was further humiliated when coach Ernesto Valverde left for Liverpool's John Lennon Airport without him after Messi's drug test took longer than expected.&nbsp;

Messi was selected for a drugs test by anti-doping officials.&nbsp;

Barcelona were leading 3-0 following the first leg in the Camp Nou before a collapse at Anfield saw <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emotional-juergen-klopp-hails-unbelievable-triumph-over-barcelona-216907">Jurgen Klopp</a>'s men advance to their second consecutive final.

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Lionel Messi's night: 
 
Cries in a corridor 😭 
Has drugs test 💦 
Misses team bus 🚌 <a href="https://t.co/Z0VhHajkbq">https://t.co/Z0VhHajkbq</a>
— Jack Wilson (@JackWilson_5) <a href="https://twitter.com/JackWilson_5/status/1126079459881299970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Two goals apiece for Divock Origi and Georginio Wijnaldum saw Liverpool complete a miraculous turnaround with Suarez later saying his side "looked like kids" when describing the manner in which they defended as Origi struck Liverpool's winner.&nbsp;

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

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

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

Major takeaways from Liverpool 0-3 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final first leg

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

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

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

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

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admitted he was at fault as Ajax closed in on a first Champions League final for 23 years thanks to Donny van de Beek's early goal to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-ajax-edge-over-tottenham-in-semi-final-first-leg-214888">first leg of their semi-final 1-0</a> on Tuesday.

Van de Beek's opener on 15 minutes was just reward for the Dutch side's first-half dominance as Tottenham badly missed the presence of the injured Harry Kane and suspended Son Heung-min.

Tottenham improved after the break despite another injury blow as Jan Vertonghen had to be helped down the tunnel after a sickening head knock, but lacked the inspiration needed to get back on level terms without their two top scorers.

"Watching now of course I can accept it was a mistake the shape we used. But there were not too many options," said Pochettino.

"I am not happy, but our lack of energy from the beginning made our game difficult. We were a little sloppy."

Ajax had shown they are not fazed on the road despite the tender age of many of their squad by shocking Real Madrid and Juventus away to reach the last four and started confidently.

Hakim Ziyech's through ball picked out midfielder Van de Beek who took his time to leave Hugo Lloris prone before slotting into the bottom corner.

"I think it was an amazing evening, an amazing result," said Ajax coach Erik ten Hag.

"In the beginning we very strong, we were completely dominating the game and we made a fantastic goal."

Lloris kept his side in the game 10 minutes later from another Van de Beek effort as Ajax threatened to run riot.

"The way we conceded the goal was so painful, I think we were so poor in this action," added Pochettino.

"They showed more energy than us, but I think after 30 minutes we started to equalise the game."

Spurs miss Kane and Son

On top of Kane and Son, Spurs were shorn of the injured Erik Lamela and Harry Winks and lost another key player when Vertonghen came off worst as he contested a high ball with Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana and teammate Toby Alderweireld.

The Belgian was patched up and briefly returned to the field before having to be helped down the tunnel leading to questions over why the Spurs medical staff allowed him to continue.

"I wasn't involved," insisted Pochettino. "It is the doctors' decision.

"I think (the health of the player) is so important, the protocol is there and our medical staff follow the protocol."

Despite that latest blow, the hosts reacted well to end the half on top with Vertonghen's replacement Moussa Sissoko driving a long-range effort wide.

Pochettino's half-time pep talk had the desired effect as Spurs dug deep into their energy reserves to raise the tempo and intensity of their display after the break.

Yet, the quality needed in the final third to get back on level terms was missing without Kane and Son.

"We arrived in the last third but we didn't find a way to create clear chances," continued Pochettino.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Always we missed the last pass or shot."

Ajax did not make the most of their chances on the break to kill the tie off, but were unfortunate when David Neres's effort back across Lloris left the French captain helpless only for the ball to rebound back off the post.

"We could have kept the ball more and played calmer and that creates opportunities," said Ten Hag.

"With for instance Neres that he didn't score that was such a pity. Nevertheless winning 1-0 in Tottenham is an amazing result.

"We know we can do a lot better next week to finish it off."

Son will be back for the trip to Amsterdam next Wednesday and Spurs will hope the South Korean can repeat his double away to Manchester City in the last eight, but Ajax are in pole position for a final against Barcelona or Liverpool come June 1 in Madrid.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admitted he was at fault as Ajax closed in on a first Champions League final for 23 years thanks to Donny van de Beek's early goal to win the first leg of their semi-final 1-0 on Tuesday.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino admitted he was at fault as Ajax closed in on a first Champions League final for 23 years thanks to Donny van de Beek's early goal to win the first leg of their semi-final 1-0 on Tuesday. Van de Beek's opener on 15 minutes was just reward for the Dutch side's first-half dominance as Tottenham badly missed the presence of the injured Harry Kane and suspended Son Heung-min. Tottenham improved after the break despite another injury blow as Jan Vertonghen had to be helped down the tunnel after a sickening head knock, but lacked the inspiration needed to get back on level terms without their two top scorers. "Watching now of course I can accept it was a mistake the shape we used. But there were not too many options," said Pochettino. "I am not happy, but our lack of energy from the beginning made our game difficult. We were a little sloppy." Ajax had shown they are not fazed on the road despite the tender age of many of their squad by shocking Real Madrid and Juventus away to reach the last four and started confidently. Hakim Ziyech's through ball picked out midfielder Van de Beek who took his time to leave Hugo Lloris prone before slotting into the bottom corner. "I think it was an amazing evening, an amazing result," said Ajax coach Erik ten Hag. "In the beginning we very strong, we were completely dominating the game and we made a fantastic goal." Lloris kept his side in the game 10 minutes later from another Van de Beek effort as Ajax threatened to run riot. "The way we conceded the goal was so painful, I think we were so poor in this action," added Pochettino. "They showed more energy than us, but I think after 30 minutes we started to equalise the game." Spurs miss Kane and Son On top of Kane and Son, Spurs were shorn of the injured Erik Lamela and Harry Winks and lost another key player when Vertonghen came off worst as he contested a high ball with Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana and teammate Toby Alderweireld. The Belgian was patched up and briefly returned to the field before having to be helped down the tunnel leading to questions over why the Spurs medical staff allowed him to continue. "I wasn't involved," insisted Pochettino. "It is the doctors' decision. "I think (the health of the player) is so important, the protocol is there and our medical staff follow the protocol." Despite that latest blow, the hosts reacted well to end the half on top with Vertonghen's replacement Moussa Sissoko driving a long-range effort wide. Pochettino's half-time pep talk had the desired effect as Spurs dug deep into their energy reserves to raise the tempo and intensity of their display after the break. Yet, the quality needed in the final third to get back on level terms was missing without Kane and Son. "We arrived in the last third but we didn't find a way to create clear chances," continued Pochettino. "Always we missed the last pass or shot." Ajax did not make the most of their chances on the break to kill the tie off, but were unfortunate when David Neres's effort back across Lloris left the French captain helpless only for the ball to rebound back off the post. "We could have kept the ball more and played calmer and that creates opportunities," said Ten Hag. "With for instance Neres that he didn't score that was such a pity. Nevertheless winning 1-0 in Tottenham is an amazing result. "We know we can do a lot better next week to finish it off." Son will be back for the trip to Amsterdam next Wednesday and Spurs will hope the South Korean can repeat his double away to Manchester City in the last eight, but Ajax are in pole position for a final against Barcelona or Liverpool come June 1 in Madrid.

Mauricio Pochettino accepts blame for 'sloppy' Spurs after 0-1 defeat to Ajax

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane refused to defend players after his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-sink-to-10th-league-loss-at-hands-of-lowly-rayo-214359">side's humiliating 1-0 defeat</a> away to bottom-placed Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday. Spanisg giants were dominated by Rayo, who began their weekend at the bottom of the standings.&nbsp;

During the post-match presentation, Zidane said, "I am always going to defend my players but today I can't. It's just the reality of today. We simply can't play like this."

He added, "It's not only the players. I am also responsible. I am the one that makes the team, I am the one that talks to them and prepares the matches and in the end we all did the opposite of what we discussed so this is something that I am going to have to reflect on as well." &nbsp;

Zidane also said that the players underperformed in the match, he said, "We did nothing today on any level, from the first minute until the last."&nbsp;

"Sometimes you are not able to score but today we didn't even create chances, we did nothing well. We have to all be angry with our performance. I am angry because we gave an awful image of ourselves," he added.&nbsp;

The result lifted Rayo off the foot of the table and condemned Zidane to his second league defeat since his return to the club.

The loss also leaves Real Madrid in third place in the table, and nine points adrift of city rivals Atletico with three games remaining.

Atletico will need just one point from their remaining three matches to finish above Zidane's side ahead of what is expected to be a summer clearout at the Santiago Bernabeu.&nbsp;

Real's arch-rivals Barcelona were crowned champions on Saturday following a 1-0 win at home to Levante.&nbsp;

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane refused to defend players after his side's humiliating 1-0 defeat away to bottom-placed Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday. Spanisg giants were dominated by Rayo, who began their weekend at the bottom of the standings.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane refused to defend players after his side's humiliating 1-0 defeat away to bottom-placed Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Sunday. Spanisg giants were dominated by Rayo, who began their weekend at the bottom of the standings. During the post-match presentation, Zidane said, "I am always going to defend my players but today I can't. It's just the reality of today. We simply can't play like this." He added, "It's not only the players. I am also responsible. I am the one that makes the team, I am the one that talks to them and prepares the matches and in the end we all did the opposite of what we discussed so this is something that I am going to have to reflect on as well." Zidane also said that the players underperformed in the match, he said, "We did nothing today on any level, from the first minute until the last." "Sometimes you are not able to score but today we didn't even create chances, we did nothing well. We have to all be angry with our performance. I am angry because we gave an awful image of ourselves," he added. The result lifted Rayo off the foot of the table and condemned Zidane to his second league defeat since his return to the club. The loss also leaves Real Madrid in third place in the table, and nine points adrift of city rivals Atletico with three games remaining. Atletico will need just one point from their remaining three matches to finish above Zidane's side ahead of what is expected to be a summer clearout at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real's arch-rivals Barcelona were crowned champions on Saturday following a 1-0 win at home to Levante.

Zinedine Zidane refuses to defend Real Madrid players after shock defeat to Rayo

After an astonishing encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on away goals following a 4-3 defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday.

Spurs, who won the first leg 1-0 and progressed after the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate, will play Ajax Amsterdam for a place in the final against Liverpool or Barcelona after one of the most remarkable matches in the competition's history.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino predicted the meeting with the exciting and young Dutch side would be an "open and exciting game" but it will take something for it to offer more entertainment than this non-stop wave of drama and emotions.

It started in manic fashion with four goals in the opening 11 minutes of the game. It was a gripping spectacle right up until the dramatic finale when City had a stoppage-time goal from Raheem Sterling, which would have sent them through, ruled out for offside after a VAR review.

City fans had celebrated what looked like the goal that sent them into the last four before the replay confirmed that Sergio Aguero was offside in the build-up.

It was a perfect example of the benefits of using technology but it was also hard on Pep Guardiola's side who had been the stronger over the 90 minutes.

"It is cruel but it is what it is and we have to accept it," said Guardiola, whose dream of winning four titles this season is now over.

His counterpart, Pochettino, who was without his top scorer Harry Kane, said his team had shown all their character.

"My players are heroes. We made history," said the Argentine, whose team reach the last four for the first time since the creation of the Champions League and since their 1962 appearance in the semi-finals of the European Cup.

The contest exploded into life in the fourth minute when Sterling put City in front, receiving a ball from Kevin De Bruyne on the left flank and then cutting inside onto his right foot before beating Hugo Lloris with a beautiful, curling shot into the far corner.

Three minutes later though, Spurs drew level when City’s French defender Aymeric Laporte’s attempted clearance fell straight at the feet of Son Heung-min whose low shot flew in off the leg of City keeper Ederson.

Laporte was also at fault for Spurs' second in the 10th minute when he gifted the ball to Lucas Moura, the Brazilian feeding Christian Eriksen who found Son, the brilliant South Korean finishing superbly into the far corner.

Struck Again

There was no respite as City responded immediately as Aguero fed Bernardo Silva and the Portuguese winger's left-foot shot deflected off Danny Rose and beat the wrong-footed Lloris to make it 2-2 on the night.

The dangerous Sterling struck again in the 21st minute to level the aggregate score, ghosting in at the back post to convert a low cross from De Bruyne that had zipped across the face of the goal.

A thundering strike from Aguero in the 59th minute put City in the driving seat again -- the Argentine blasting in at Lloris's near post after a magnificent burst forward and perfectly weighted and timed pass from De Bruyne.

City, who went out at the same stage to Liverpool last season, were stunned though in the 73rd minute when Spurs substitute Fernando Llorente bundled in a Kieran Trippier corner to restore the London club's advantage through away goals.

With officials unsure if the ball had bounced off the Spaniard's hand or rolled off his hip in the goalmouth scramble, VAR was called into action and the goal stood for Spurs -- a decision Guardiola questioned after the game.

Then came the stoppage time video torture for the home support -- Aguero burst down the right flank and delivered a low cross for Sterling to slot home what would have been his hat-trick goal.

The VAR call was correct and the Premier League champions were out -- to the delight of Pochettino and his players who celebrated wildly in front of the travelling Spurs support.

"They deserve a lot of praise. I am so happy because the effort is massive from the squad who have lived with everything. If we have one thing to describe this team, we always keep the same spirit, ideas and philosophy and that is the most important thing," Pochettino said.

Now the pair will meet again on Saturday at the same venue in the Premier League, with plenty at stake for both teams.

It should be another classic but it is hard to see how it could be quite as engrossing as this one.

After an astonishing encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on away goals following a 4-3 defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday.

After an astonishing encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on away goals following a 4-3 defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday. Spurs, who won the first leg 1-0 and progressed after the tie finished 4-4 on aggregate, will play Ajax Amsterdam for a place in the final against Liverpool or Barcelona after one of the most remarkable matches in the competition's history. Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino predicted the meeting with the exciting and young Dutch side would be an "open and exciting game" but it will take something for it to offer more entertainment than this non-stop wave of drama and emotions. It started in manic fashion with four goals in the opening 11 minutes of the game. It was a gripping spectacle right up until the dramatic finale when City had a stoppage-time goal from Raheem Sterling, which would have sent them through, ruled out for offside after a VAR review. City fans had celebrated what looked like the goal that sent them into the last four before the replay confirmed that Sergio Aguero was offside in the build-up. It was a perfect example of the benefits of using technology but it was also hard on Pep Guardiola's side who had been the stronger over the 90 minutes. "It is cruel but it is what it is and we have to accept it," said Guardiola, whose dream of winning four titles this season is now over. His counterpart, Pochettino, who was without his top scorer Harry Kane, said his team had shown all their character. "My players are heroes. We made history," said the Argentine, whose team reach the last four for the first time since the creation of the Champions League and since their 1962 appearance in the semi-finals of the European Cup. The contest exploded into life in the fourth minute when Sterling put City in front, receiving a ball from Kevin De Bruyne on the left flank and then cutting inside onto his right foot before beating Hugo Lloris with a beautiful, curling shot into the far corner. Three minutes later though, Spurs drew level when City’s French defender Aymeric Laporte’s attempted clearance fell straight at the feet of Son Heung-min whose low shot flew in off the leg of City keeper Ederson. Laporte was also at fault for Spurs' second in the 10th minute when he gifted the ball to Lucas Moura, the Brazilian feeding Christian Eriksen who found Son, the brilliant South Korean finishing superbly into the far corner. Struck Again There was no respite as City responded immediately as Aguero fed Bernardo Silva and the Portuguese winger's left-foot shot deflected off Danny Rose and beat the wrong-footed Lloris to make it 2-2 on the night. The dangerous Sterling struck again in the 21st minute to level the aggregate score, ghosting in at the back post to convert a low cross from De Bruyne that had zipped across the face of the goal. A thundering strike from Aguero in the 59th minute put City in the driving seat again -- the Argentine blasting in at Lloris's near post after a magnificent burst forward and perfectly weighted and timed pass from De Bruyne. City, who went out at the same stage to Liverpool last season, were stunned though in the 73rd minute when Spurs substitute Fernando Llorente bundled in a Kieran Trippier corner to restore the London club's advantage through away goals. With officials unsure if the ball had bounced off the Spaniard's hand or rolled off his hip in the goalmouth scramble, VAR was called into action and the goal stood for Spurs -- a decision Guardiola questioned after the game. Then came the stoppage time video torture for the home support -- Aguero burst down the right flank and delivered a low cross for Sterling to slot home what would have been his hat-trick goal. The VAR call was correct and the Premier League champions were out -- to the delight of Pochettino and his players who celebrated wildly in front of the travelling Spurs support. "They deserve a lot of praise. I am so happy because the effort is massive from the squad who have lived with everything. If we have one thing to describe this team, we always keep the same spirit, ideas and philosophy and that is the most important thing," Pochettino said. Now the pair will meet again on Saturday at the same venue in the Premier League, with plenty at stake for both teams. It should be another classic but it is hard to see how it could be quite as engrossing as this one.

Champions League: Tottenham Hotspur stun Manchester City to go through in seven-goal thriller

A resurgent Mohamed Salah scored one and set up another to inspire a clinical Liverpool to a 4-1 win at Porto in their Champions League quarter-final second leg on Wednesday that teed up a last-four clash with Barcelona.

The Reds, who eased through 6-1 on aggregate, held off Porto in the early stages before Salah and Sadio Mane combined for the Senegalese to put them ahead with their first shot on target following a VAR review.

Egypt striker Salah doubled the tally after the break and goals from Roberto Firmino and Virgil van Dijk wrapped it up late on.

Porto had briefly reduced the arrears through Eder Militao, but having lost the first leg 2-0 at Anfield, they never seemed in a position to overturn the deficit.

Barcelona advanced on Tuesday when they won 3-0 in their second-leg against Manchester United, completing a 4-0 aggregate victory.

Five-times European champions Liverpool, who had produced a scintillating display to beat Porto 5-0 in the last-16 at the Dragao stadium last season, had a totally different approach this time.

They soaked up the pressure as Porto made an adventurous start, with Jesus Corona curling a powerful shot just over the bar in the opening minute.

Juergen Klopp's side looked temporarily toothless, but they were just waiting for their moment -- which came in the 26th minute.

Mane latched onto a cross from Salah to beat Iker Casillas from close range but he was initially flagged offside, only for referee Danny Makkelie to check the VAR.

After a two-minute review, the goal was eventually given.

Facing the huge task of scoring four goals to qualify, Porto looked stunned, despite having attempted 15 shots before the interval.

Salah, who endured a goal drought in March, confirmed he was getting close to his best again when he coolly slotted the ball past Casillas after collecting a perfect diagonal through ball from Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 65th minute.

It was Salah's first Champions League goal since December, and his first away from Anfield in the competition in 12 months.

Militao soothed the home fans' suffering a little, beating Roberto Firmino in the air to head home in the 69th minute.

Brazilian Firmino, who had started on the bench as Klopp handed a rare start to Divock Origi, made it 3-1 with a downward header with 13 minutes left and Van Dijk headed home a fourth from a corner eight minutes later.

Tottenham Hotspur will face Ajax Amsterdam in the other semi-final tie.

A resurgent Mohamed Salah scored one and set up another to inspire a clinical Liverpool to a 4-1 win at Porto in their Champions League quarter-final second leg on Wednesday that teed up a last-four clash with Barcelona.

A resurgent Mohamed Salah scored one and set up another to inspire a clinical Liverpool to a 4-1 win at Porto in their Champions League quarter-final second leg on Wednesday that teed up a last-four clash with Barcelona. The Reds, who eased through 6-1 on aggregate, held off Porto in the early stages before Salah and Sadio Mane combined for the Senegalese to put them ahead with their first shot on target following a VAR review. Egypt striker Salah doubled the tally after the break and goals from Roberto Firmino and Virgil van Dijk wrapped it up late on. Porto had briefly reduced the arrears through Eder Militao, but having lost the first leg 2-0 at Anfield, they never seemed in a position to overturn the deficit. Barcelona advanced on Tuesday when they won 3-0 in their second-leg against Manchester United, completing a 4-0 aggregate victory. Five-times European champions Liverpool, who had produced a scintillating display to beat Porto 5-0 in the last-16 at the Dragao stadium last season, had a totally different approach this time. They soaked up the pressure as Porto made an adventurous start, with Jesus Corona curling a powerful shot just over the bar in the opening minute. Juergen Klopp's side looked temporarily toothless, but they were just waiting for their moment -- which came in the 26th minute. Mane latched onto a cross from Salah to beat Iker Casillas from close range but he was initially flagged offside, only for referee Danny Makkelie to check the VAR. After a two-minute review, the goal was eventually given. Facing the huge task of scoring four goals to qualify, Porto looked stunned, despite having attempted 15 shots before the interval. Salah, who endured a goal drought in March, confirmed he was getting close to his best again when he coolly slotted the ball past Casillas after collecting a perfect diagonal through ball from Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 65th minute. It was Salah's first Champions League goal since December, and his first away from Anfield in the competition in 12 months. Militao soothed the home fans' suffering a little, beating Roberto Firmino in the air to head home in the 69th minute. Brazilian Firmino, who had started on the bench as Klopp handed a rare start to Divock Origi, made it 3-1 with a downward header with 13 minutes left and Van Dijk headed home a fourth from a corner eight minutes later. Tottenham Hotspur will face Ajax Amsterdam in the other semi-final tie.

Champions League: Mohamed Salah shines as clinical Liverpool see off Porto

After guiding his team to the semi-finals of UEFA Champions League, Liverpool manager&nbsp;Jurgen Klopp said that his focus is now on Liverpool's next Premier League clash against Cardiff.&nbsp;

Liverpool registered an easy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohamed-salah-shines-as-clinical-liverpool-see-off-porto-211307">second leg win over Porto</a> in the quarter-finals of UCL with an aggregate of 6-1 on Wednesday. The Reds have set up their semi-finals with La Liga giants Barcelona.&nbsp;

Klopp, whose&nbsp;side is in contention for a domestic league, said and said his focus now will solely be on their next domestic opponent - Cardiff City as the two sides will meet on Sunday.&nbsp;

"That is in my mind and will be in my mind 100 per cent when I wake up tomorrow. And not how we play against Barcelona. We have enough time for that," said Klopp during the post-match conference.&nbsp;

"I'm happy for all the people at the club. It is the second time, second year in the semi-final and that is a big statement."

Jurgen Klopp made a series of changes to the lineup from the first leg, revamping the midfield and using Firmino as a second-half substitute.

Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Virgil van Dijk netted for the Premier League leaders after they had held off the ambitions of Porto in the first half and then scored three times in the final half an hour.

It was not quite a repeat of the 5-0 rout Liverpool enjoyed here 14 months ago but by the final whistle the effect was just the same.

Liverpool, which lost to Real Madrid in the final last season, will now face Barcelona, which eliminated Manchester United 4-0 on aggregate on Tuesday.

After guiding his team to the semi-finals of UEFA Champions League, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that his focus is now on Liverpool's next Premier League clash against Cardiff.

After guiding his team to the semi-finals of UEFA Champions League, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that his focus is now on Liverpool's next Premier League clash against Cardiff. Liverpool registered an easy second leg win over Porto in the quarter-finals of UCL with an aggregate of 6-1 on Wednesday. The Reds have set up their semi-finals with La Liga giants Barcelona. Klopp, whose side is in contention for a domestic league, said and said his focus now will solely be on their next domestic opponent - Cardiff City as the two sides will meet on Sunday. "That is in my mind and will be in my mind 100 per cent when I wake up tomorrow. And not how we play against Barcelona. We have enough time for that," said Klopp during the post-match conference. "I'm happy for all the people at the club. It is the second time, second year in the semi-final and that is a big statement." Jurgen Klopp made a series of changes to the lineup from the first leg, revamping the midfield and using Firmino as a second-half substitute. Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Virgil van Dijk netted for the Premier League leaders after they had held off the ambitions of Porto in the first half and then scored three times in the final half an hour. It was not quite a repeat of the 5-0 rout Liverpool enjoyed here 14 months ago but by the final whistle the effect was just the same. Liverpool, which lost to Real Madrid in the final last season, will now face Barcelona, which eliminated Manchester United 4-0 on aggregate on Tuesday.

'I'm thinking about Cardiff,' says Jurgen Klopp after Liverpool's UCL win over Porto

Tottenham Hotspur's Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld said that his side went from "hell to heaven" when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) ruled out Raheem Sterling's stoppage-time goal in the second leg of UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Spurs reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on away goals following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspur-stun-manchester-city-to-go-through-after-seven-goal-thriller-var-drama-211309">a 4-3 defeat to Manchester City</a> on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Alderweireld said, "From hell to heaven. I think we couldn't concede at that moment, I think we know what went wrong at that moment so we were a little bit angry, but then suddenly we saw the ref (referee) going back and said it was offside and then it was only one minute more to play." &nbsp;

The Manchester City fans were celebrated at the Etihad Stadium what looked like the goal that sent them into the last four before the replay confirmed that Sergio Aguero was offside in the build-up.&nbsp;

Alderweireld further added, "Yes, unbelievable. In one game against City if you go through it's okay, but if you do it in two games it's unbelievable."

"If you see our bench as well, all very young, talented players. So, it's an unbelievable night for us and don't underestimate it," Alderweireld concluded.&nbsp;

Tottenham will play Ajax Amsterdam for a place in the final against Liverpool or Barcelona.&nbsp;

Tottenham Hotspur's Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld said that his side went from "hell to heaven" when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) ruled out Raheem Sterling's stoppage-time goal in the second leg of UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

Tottenham Hotspur's Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld said that his side went from "hell to heaven" when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) ruled out Raheem Sterling's stoppage-time goal in the second leg of UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. Spurs reached the semi-finals of the Champions League on away goals following a 4-3 defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday. Alderweireld said, "From hell to heaven. I think we couldn't concede at that moment, I think we know what went wrong at that moment so we were a little bit angry, but then suddenly we saw the ref (referee) going back and said it was offside and then it was only one minute more to play." The Manchester City fans were celebrated at the Etihad Stadium what looked like the goal that sent them into the last four before the replay confirmed that Sergio Aguero was offside in the build-up. Alderweireld further added, "Yes, unbelievable. In one game against City if you go through it's okay, but if you do it in two games it's unbelievable." "If you see our bench as well, all very young, talented players. So, it's an unbelievable night for us and don't underestimate it," Alderweireld concluded. Tottenham will play Ajax Amsterdam for a place in the final against Liverpool or Barcelona.

'From hell to heaven': Alderweireld summarise Tottenham's UCL win over Manchester City

From Cristiano Ronaldo's struggle to Lionel Messi's double, major takeaways from UEFA Champions League quarter-finals second-leg

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-luke-shaws-own-goal-gives-barcelona-advantage-over-tame-united-209409">1-0 deficit from the first leg</a>&nbsp;of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday.

United became the first side to ever overcome a 2-0 first leg defeat at home to reach the last eight with a 3-1 win in Paris last month.

But Solskjaer, who scored the winner when United won the Champions League at the Camp Nou in 1999, believes Barca's prestigious European history makes beating the Spanish champions a different prospect to PSG.

"Of course the PSG performance away gives us hope and belief we can do it, but we know we are playing against probably the favourites for the tournament," said Solskjaer.

"It will be a greater achievement winning that one with the history of Barcelona. They are not used to losing at home."

Luke Shaw's early own goal was all that separated the sides on the scoresheet, but Barca comfortably edged towards a first Champions League semi-final in four years as United failed to register a single shot on target.

"It leaves a good taste in the mouth to win here, but we know it is not a big enough lead given what happened (with United) in the last round," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.

Much has been made of Luis Suarez's Champions League goal drought on the road and while the Uruguayan has still not officially netted an away goal in the competition since September 2015, he had a huge hand in Barca's winner.

Lionel Messi drifted in behind the United defence and his cross hung up to the back post was headed goalwards by Suarez, the ball flicking off Shaw on its way past David de Gea.

An errant offside flag briefly threatened to spoil Suarez's delight. However, the goal was quickly given on a VAR review and the former Liverpool striker took extra glee at having the last laugh with a fist pump in front of the Stretford End.

"The value of the goal doesn't change if another player gets the last touch or not," added Valverde.

The early goal should have settled the Catalans into their stride as their dominance of possession touched close to 90 percent in the opening stages.

Yet they offered United plenty of encouragement with Sergio Busquets in particular off the pace.

"It is very difficult over the course of a season to always be at the highest level," said Valverde.

"To win away from home in the Champions League you have to suffer."

Messi roughed up

United defender Chris Smalling had said "bring it on" at the prospect of facing Messi on the eve of the game.

And he left the Argentine bloodied from the nose as he careered into an aerial challenge on the half-hour mark.

Messi was quickly back on his feet and into the heart of the action, but it was Philippe Coutinho who came closest to extending Barca's advantage before the break with a thunderous low shot that De Gea did brilliantly to repel with his feet.

Moments later United could easily have been on level terms, but the hosts' best chance of the half fell to the wrong man as Marcus Rashford picked out Diogo Dalot only for the Portuguese to completely miscue his header across goal.

However, Rashford also failed to make proper contact with his big chance early in the second-half when Ter Stegen could only punch a cross into his path.

The Red Devils have now failed to score and have lost in four of their last six home Champions League games.

"Those statistics are not bright, we cannot defend not scoring goals at home," added Solskjaer.

"But away from home we beat Juventus, we beat PSG and we have to go to Barcelona and win that one."

The result could have been worse for Solskjaer's men as Suarez fired into the side-netting before De Gea used his feet to good effect once more to deny Jordi Alba.

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday.

Manchester United face an even tougher task to turn around the 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final with Barcelona than their miraculous comeback away to Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16, coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted on Wednesday. United became the first side to ever overcome a 2-0 first leg defeat at home to reach the last eight with a 3-1 win in Paris last month. But Solskjaer, who scored the winner when United won the Champions League at the Camp Nou in 1999, believes Barca's prestigious European history makes beating the Spanish champions a different prospect to PSG. "Of course the PSG performance away gives us hope and belief we can do it, but we know we are playing against probably the favourites for the tournament," said Solskjaer. "It will be a greater achievement winning that one with the history of Barcelona. They are not used to losing at home." Luke Shaw's early own goal was all that separated the sides on the scoresheet, but Barca comfortably edged towards a first Champions League semi-final in four years as United failed to register a single shot on target. "It leaves a good taste in the mouth to win here, but we know it is not a big enough lead given what happened (with United) in the last round," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Much has been made of Luis Suarez's Champions League goal drought on the road and while the Uruguayan has still not officially netted an away goal in the competition since September 2015, he had a huge hand in Barca's winner. Lionel Messi drifted in behind the United defence and his cross hung up to the back post was headed goalwards by Suarez, the ball flicking off Shaw on its way past David de Gea. An errant offside flag briefly threatened to spoil Suarez's delight. However, the goal was quickly given on a VAR review and the former Liverpool striker took extra glee at having the last laugh with a fist pump in front of the Stretford End. "The value of the goal doesn't change if another player gets the last touch or not," added Valverde. The early goal should have settled the Catalans into their stride as their dominance of possession touched close to 90 percent in the opening stages. Yet they offered United plenty of encouragement with Sergio Busquets in particular off the pace. "It is very difficult over the course of a season to always be at the highest level," said Valverde. "To win away from home in the Champions League you have to suffer." Messi roughed up United defender Chris Smalling had said "bring it on" at the prospect of facing Messi on the eve of the game. And he left the Argentine bloodied from the nose as he careered into an aerial challenge on the half-hour mark. Messi was quickly back on his feet and into the heart of the action, but it was Philippe Coutinho who came closest to extending Barca's advantage before the break with a thunderous low shot that De Gea did brilliantly to repel with his feet. Moments later United could easily have been on level terms, but the hosts' best chance of the half fell to the wrong man as Marcus Rashford picked out Diogo Dalot only for the Portuguese to completely miscue his header across goal. However, Rashford also failed to make proper contact with his big chance early in the second-half when Ter Stegen could only punch a cross into his path. The Red Devils have now failed to score and have lost in four of their last six home Champions League games. "Those statistics are not bright, we cannot defend not scoring goals at home," added Solskjaer. "But away from home we beat Juventus, we beat PSG and we have to go to Barcelona and win that one." The result could have been worse for Solskjaer's men as Suarez fired into the side-netting before De Gea used his feet to good effect once more to deny Jordi Alba.

Beating Barcelona tougher than PSG, admits Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin admitted on Tuesday that he is ashamed of the recent outbreaks of racism that have blighted football this season.

England stars Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi endured racist abuse from Montenegro fans during last month's Euro 2020 qualifier, while in the club game Inter Milan, Dinamo Zagreb and Dynamo Kiev have all been punished with full or partial venue closures due to racist behaviour by supporters.

"I am ashamed, ashamed that in 2019 we have to hold a conference to promote diversity," said Ceferin, at Wembley on Tuesday for the first Equal Game conference held to help tackle discrimination.

"It is worrying to see world leaders and politicians playing down racist and discriminatory incidents."

Ceferin will ask referees to "not be afraid" to stop matches when there is racial abuse.

"The moment a match is stopped, or it's not played, I think that 90 percent of normal people in the stadium would kick the asses of those idiots," Ceferin said.

"It's 2019, it's not 100 years ago. We will speak to the referees again, and tell them to be confident, not to be afraid to act.

"This is a huge problem. Not just the Balkans, all eastern Europe ... But of course you see Italy, one of the biggest problems with racism, sexism and homophobia. You have England, where you have problems."

'More needs to be done'

English football bosses are also ready to strengthen punishments against racism.

Football Association chairman Greg Clarke revealed the English game's governing body is reviewing disciplinary processes, to ensure claims of abuse are investigated more meticulously.

Clarke also revealed a review of training for match stewards on how to handle discrimination issues, with the FA keen to act after the abuse England players suffered in Podgorica.

"When Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi speak with such maturity and eloquence, we must listen, we must respond -- and we must not let them down," Clarke said.

"Let me be clear, I'm using this match (Montenegro-England) as an example of something that's happening across all our societies, and across all of Europe.

"None of us can be naive enough to think racism doesn't happen at all of our countries and matches. Clearly more needs to be done.

"We must do more in England, and more across Europe, and we must do this together ... we must put some concrete actions in place."

Clarke believes it is time to re-examine UEFA's three-step process for halting matches as a result of racist abuse.

Current guidelines allow referees to stop, suspend or abandon matches due to racist abuse, but Clarke believes it is time to lower the threshold that allows referees to take that action.

"The protocol asks the referee to stop the match if 'racist behaviour is of a strong magnitude and intensity'," Clarke said.&nbsp;

"I don't now think that is good enough and we should take this opportunity to revisit these thresholds.

"The young men and women who take to the field representing our clubs and countries not only deserve, but should be entitled, to play their football in a safe environment entirely free from racial abuse."

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin admitted on Tuesday that he is ashamed of the recent outbreaks of racism that have blighted football this season. England stars Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi endured racist abuse from Montenegro fans during last month's Euro 2020 qualifier, while in the club game Inter Milan, Dinamo Zagreb and Dynamo Kiev have all been punished with full or partial venue closures due to racist behaviour by supporters.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin admitted on Tuesday that he is ashamed of the recent outbreaks of racism that have blighted football this season. England stars Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi endured racist abuse from Montenegro fans during last month's Euro 2020 qualifier, while in the club game Inter Milan, Dinamo Zagreb and Dynamo Kiev have all been punished with full or partial venue closures due to racist behaviour by supporters. "I am ashamed, ashamed that in 2019 we have to hold a conference to promote diversity," said Ceferin, at Wembley on Tuesday for the first Equal Game conference held to help tackle discrimination. "It is worrying to see world leaders and politicians playing down racist and discriminatory incidents." Ceferin will ask referees to "not be afraid" to stop matches when there is racial abuse. "The moment a match is stopped, or it's not played, I think that 90 percent of normal people in the stadium would kick the asses of those idiots," Ceferin said. "It's 2019, it's not 100 years ago. We will speak to the referees again, and tell them to be confident, not to be afraid to act. "This is a huge problem. Not just the Balkans, all eastern Europe ... But of course you see Italy, one of the biggest problems with racism, sexism and homophobia. You have England, where you have problems." 'More needs to be done' English football bosses are also ready to strengthen punishments against racism. Football Association chairman Greg Clarke revealed the English game's governing body is reviewing disciplinary processes, to ensure claims of abuse are investigated more meticulously. Clarke also revealed a review of training for match stewards on how to handle discrimination issues, with the FA keen to act after the abuse England players suffered in Podgorica. "When Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi speak with such maturity and eloquence, we must listen, we must respond -- and we must not let them down," Clarke said. "Let me be clear, I'm using this match (Montenegro-England) as an example of something that's happening across all our societies, and across all of Europe. "None of us can be naive enough to think racism doesn't happen at all of our countries and matches. Clearly more needs to be done. "We must do more in England, and more across Europe, and we must do this together ... we must put some concrete actions in place." Clarke believes it is time to re-examine UEFA's three-step process for halting matches as a result of racist abuse. Current guidelines allow referees to stop, suspend or abandon matches due to racist abuse, but Clarke believes it is time to lower the threshold that allows referees to take that action. "The protocol asks the referee to stop the match if 'racist behaviour is of a strong magnitude and intensity'," Clarke said. "I don't now think that is good enough and we should take this opportunity to revisit these thresholds. "The young men and women who take to the field representing our clubs and countries not only deserve, but should be entitled, to play their football in a safe environment entirely free from racial abuse."

UEFA chief Ceferin slams outbreaks of racist abuse

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed on Friday Cristiano Ronaldo is an injury doubt for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Ajax on April 10.

Ronaldo, a five-time European Cup winner, left the field with a thigh problem captaining Portugal in Monday's draw against Serbia.

"He's already started to move but he won't return to training until he feels fit. There is a risk he'll miss the first leg against Ajax," Allegri said.

"We have to be careful because we're in a tricky period of the season. It's better he misses one match and comes back when he's 100 per cent so there's no risk of a repeat injury. It's better to miss one match than two months," Allegri added.

Serie A champions Juventus travel to Amsterdam before hosting the Dutch outfit on April 16 with the Italians looking for a first European title since 1996.

Juve have virtually wrapped up the Scudetto crown for an eighth straight season as they hold a 15-point lead over second place Napoli with 10 games of the season to go and face lowly Empoli on Saturday.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed on Friday Cristiano Ronaldo is an injury doubt for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Ajax on April 10.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed on Friday Cristiano Ronaldo is an injury doubt for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Ajax on April 10. Ronaldo, a five-time European Cup winner, left the field with a thigh problem captaining Portugal in Monday's draw against Serbia. "He's already started to move but he won't return to training until he feels fit. There is a risk he'll miss the first leg against Ajax," Allegri said. "We have to be careful because we're in a tricky period of the season. It's better he misses one match and comes back when he's 100 per cent so there's no risk of a repeat injury. It's better to miss one match than two months," Allegri added. Serie A champions Juventus travel to Amsterdam before hosting the Dutch outfit on April 16 with the Italians looking for a first European title since 1996. Juve have virtually wrapped up the Scudetto crown for an eighth straight season as they hold a 15-point lead over second place Napoli with 10 games of the season to go and face lowly Empoli on Saturday.

Cristiano Ronaldo 'risks missing' Champions League quarter-final first leg

UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Ireland on Thursday after supporters hurled tennis balls onto the field during their European Championship qualifier against Georgia.

The match in Dublin on Tuesday was held up for up to three minutes as Ireland fans threw dozens of tennis balls in protest at chief executive John Delaney's continued role at the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).

Delaney stood down as the FAI's chief executive last week, days before he was due to appear before lawmakers over a 100,000 euro ($112,450) loan provided to the governing body.

However, the FAI created a new position of executive vice-president for Delaney, who will remain with the association he led since 2005.

The Irish FA could not be immediately reached for comment.

The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary panel on May 16.

UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Ireland on Thursday after supporters hurled tennis balls onto the field during their European Championship qualifier against Georgia.

UEFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Ireland on Thursday after supporters hurled tennis balls onto the field during their European Championship qualifier against Georgia. The match in Dublin on Tuesday was held up for up to three minutes as Ireland fans threw dozens of tennis balls in protest at chief executive John Delaney's continued role at the Football Association of Ireland (FAI). Delaney stood down as the FAI's chief executive last week, days before he was due to appear before lawmakers over a 100,000 euro ($112,450) loan provided to the governing body. However, the FAI created a new position of executive vice-president for Delaney, who will remain with the association he led since 2005. The Irish FA could not be immediately reached for comment. The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary panel on May 16.

UEFA charge Ireland over tennis ball protest

European football's governing body UEFA has been urged to take strong action over racist incidents in Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier between Montenegro and England in Podgorica and will receive a report from an independent monitoring group.

England defender Danny Rose was subjected to monkey chants and Raheem Sterling, scorer of England's final goal in the 5-1 win, was also targeted, with racist abuse heard throughout the game.

Sterling called for Montenegro supporters to be banned from matches, while England manager Gareth Southgate said he would report the incidents to UEFA.

As well as a complaint from the English FA, UEFA will also examine the referee's report and the official report from their own match delegate.

Independent monitoring group FARE had an observer at the game and said they will also submit a report.

UEFA said they will not comment until their disciplinary body has received those reports while FARE said their evidence would be sent to the Swiss-based body.

"We had an observer present who picked up evidence of racial abuse. Our monitoring team have been compiling the evidence we have before presenting it to UEFA," FARE said in a statement.

"We hope that UEFA will act decisively, the sanctions that could be applied for an offence of this kind range from a partial stadium closure to full stadium closure."

England manager Gareth Southgate said he had no doubt that the abuse took place.

"I definitely heard abuse of Danny Rose when he got booked at the end of the game," said Southgate.

"There's no doubt in my mind that happened and we'll report it to UEFA. It's not acceptable," he added on ITV Sport.

Forward Sterling, who cupped his ears when celebrating his goal in front of the home fans, told Sky Sports: "I didn't hear (racist chanting) personally but Danny (Rose) made it clear and (made me) aware that's what they were doing so I just wanted to show them that they were going to need more than that to upset us and stop us."

Sterling called for strict sanctions from UEFA.

"You've got to punish the whole fans who can't come to the games," he said. "You've got to do something that will really make them think twice because if their team can't play with fans it's going to be difficult for them."

European football's governing body UEFA has been urged to take strong action over racist incidents in Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier between Montenegro and England in Podgorica and will receive a report from an independent monitoring group.

European football's governing body UEFA has been urged to take strong action over racist incidents in Monday's Euro 2020 qualifier between Montenegro and England in Podgorica and will receive a report from an independent monitoring group. England defender Danny Rose was subjected to monkey chants and Raheem Sterling, scorer of England's final goal in the 5-1 win, was also targeted, with racist abuse heard throughout the game. Sterling called for Montenegro supporters to be banned from matches, while England manager Gareth Southgate said he would report the incidents to UEFA. As well as a complaint from the English FA, UEFA will also examine the referee's report and the official report from their own match delegate. Independent monitoring group FARE had an observer at the game and said they will also submit a report. UEFA said they will not comment until their disciplinary body has received those reports while FARE said their evidence would be sent to the Swiss-based body. "We had an observer present who picked up evidence of racial abuse. Our monitoring team have been compiling the evidence we have before presenting it to UEFA," FARE said in a statement. "We hope that UEFA will act decisively, the sanctions that could be applied for an offence of this kind range from a partial stadium closure to full stadium closure." England manager Gareth Southgate said he had no doubt that the abuse took place. "I definitely heard abuse of Danny Rose when he got booked at the end of the game," said Southgate. "There's no doubt in my mind that happened and we'll report it to UEFA. It's not acceptable," he added on ITV Sport. Forward Sterling, who cupped his ears when celebrating his goal in front of the home fans, told Sky Sports: "I didn't hear (racist chanting) personally but Danny (Rose) made it clear and (made me) aware that's what they were doing so I just wanted to show them that they were going to need more than that to upset us and stop us." Sterling called for strict sanctions from UEFA. "You've got to punish the whole fans who can't come to the games," he said. "You've got to do something that will really make them think twice because if their team can't play with fans it's going to be difficult for them."

UEFA urged to take strong action over racist incidents in England match

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