football-news.com <![CDATA[Next England Manager Odds - No guarantees FA will appoint an Englishma...]]>
Fabio Capello will remain with England until after Euro 2012, but the FA have no-one in mind to replace the Italian.

There were intense rumours on Thursday evening that Fabio Capello was set to quit as England manager but the FA have confirmed that the Italian will see out his contract, which expires after Euro 2012.

However, the FA chairman, David Bernstein, has dampened speculation over the identity of the man who will replace Capello by claiming that he cannot confirm the next England manager will be English.

"I cannot confirm that he will be English," said Bernstein. "I think there is a desire for the manager to be English but I wouldn't want to close the situation and we have to judge it at the time.

"I would not say at this stage that he has to be English, I would say at this stage it would be preferable.

"It is an important element, but not the only criteria, I clearly recognise there is a desire in this country to have an English manager when Fabio leaves.

Harry Redknapp is the bookies favourite to replace Capello and is a best price of 6/4, at William Hill, to be the next England manager.

Stuart Pearce is 6/1 with Hills, who make Gareth Southgate an 8/1 chance to be the next man to coach the national team. Leading foreign managers Guus Hiddink and Arsene Wenger are 20/1 to replace Capello.


Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid 1 Barcelona 0 AET]]>
Real Madrid finally got the better of Barcelona as Cristiano Ronaldo’s extra-time goal earned a 1-0 win in the Copa del Rey final.

Barca thrashed Madrid 5-0 in their first La Liga meeting this season and the two teams played out a 1-1 draw this past weekend, the first game in a run of four over a three-week period.

The Catalan giants were favourites heading into the match but were fortunate not to enter half-time a goal behind when Pepe’s header came back off the post.

Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas then took centre-stage after the interval with several fine saves to ensure Barcelona did not win Spanish football’s first piece of silverware this season, and he was rewarded in the extra period when Marcelo fed Angel Di Maria and his cross was headed home by Ronaldo.

Di Maria was then sent off in the closing moments at the Mestalla, but Madrid held on to hand Jose Mourinho his first trophy since taking charge last summer.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Chelsea 3 Birmingham City 1]]>
Florent Malouda bagged a brace as Chelsea moved into second place in the Premier League with a 3-1 win over Birmingham City.

Malouda opened the scoring on three minutes at Stamford Bridge when he met Didier Drogba’s flick-on to beat Ben Foster, and Drogba almost doubled their advantage but was denied by a fingertip save from the Blues goalkeeper.

Salomon Kalou did add a second when he raced past Roger Johnson and Stuart Parnaby to fire in off the inside of the upright midway through the first half, and Malouda then made it three just after the hour mark when he got away from Liam Ridgwell to head home his second.

The visiting supporters were given something to cheer when Sebastian Larsson converted a penalty after David Luiz fouled Matt Derbyshire, but Chelsea had done enough to take all three points and leapfrog Arsenal in the table after the Gunners drew 3-3 at Tottenham.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham 3 Arsenal 3]]>
Rafael van der Vaart struck twice as Tottenham dented Arsenal’s title hopes in a thrilling 3-3 draw at White Hart Lane.

The Gunners, still sore from the dramatic 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the weekend, were given a major boost on Tuesday night as Manchester United were held to a goalless draw at Newcastle United, and they made a dream start as they looked to gain ground on the leaders.

Cesc Fabregas’ measured pass played in Theo Walcott and the England winger made no mistake by netting on five minutes, but Spurs responded almost immediately as van der Vaart got on the end of Vedran Corluka’s pass to equalise.

Samir Nasri restored the Gunners’ lead just five minutes later with the aid of a deflection, and Robin van Persie extended their advantage on 40 minutes by firing home after his initial effort had been blocked by Heurelho Gomes.

However, Spurs came back again and Tom Huddlestone lashed home from the edge of the penalty to reduced the arrears a minute before half-time.

And van der Vaart then secured a point for the hosts when he coolly slotted home a penalty after Wojciech Szczesny tripped Aaron Lennon.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Barcelona v Real Madrid - Copa del Rey underway]]>
Barcelona are strong favourites to beat Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final at the Mestalla Stadium in Valencia.

Fans of El Clasico matches have been well and truly spoilt this season, with Barcelona and Real Madrid meeting for the third time this season when they contest the Copa del Rey final.

This match is the pre-cursor to the Champions League semi-final clashes between the Spanish giants and Barcelona are the favourites  to win this cup final, which will be played at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium. 

The teams played out a 1-1 draw on Saturday night, with a late Cristiano Ronaldo penalty salvaging a point for the home side.

Real will be looking to land some silverware and Jose Mourinho’s men are underdogs to claim victory ahead of their Champions League encounter, with Ronaldo always capable of moments of brilliance.

One can’t help but feel that Barca might outclass their opponents on neutral territory.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Barcelona v Real Madrid live team news]]>
Barcelona meet Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final tonight at the Mestalla Stadium in Valencia.

This match needs no introduction this evening and we are expecting the teams to line up like this:

Barcelona: Pinto; Alves, Pique, Busquets, Adriano; Xavi, Mascherano, Iniesta; Villa, Messi, Pedro. 

Real Madrid: Casillas; Ramos, Pepe, Carvalho, Marcelo; Khedira, Alonso; Ronaldo, Ozil, Di Maria; Adebayor.

Adriano was passed fit on Wednesday morning to play in the final, although Carlo Puyol is injured and will play no part against Real Madrid. 

Emmanuel Adebayor is expected to play as the lone striker as he did during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at the Bernabeu, with Cristiano Ronaldo playing alongside Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona – Copa del Rey live preview]]>
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes the weekend draw has shown his side how to beat Real Madrid in tonight’s Copa del Rey final.

The two teams played out a 1-1 draw in Saturday night’s La Liga showdown, which was the first of four “El Clasico” showdowns between the fierce rivals over the next three weeks.

And despite seeing his side romp to a 5-0 victory over Madrid in their first leg meeting last November, Guardiola believes he has learnt more lessons from their Bernabeu stalemate.

He said: “We have talked about what happened on Saturday, what was right and wrong, and whatever they (Madrid) do depends on what we do.

“We have to move the ball faster. If we move faster the defence will come later.

“We have talked and we know how to play better to create more chances.”

Guardiola continued: “The match at the Bernabeu is a reference point for us. We did some things well, and others not so well.

“We have to play deeper. We have to be brave and we have to try and win.”

Watch Real Madrid v Barcelona live at 365, kicking off at 20.30 BST. And don't forget to check out Football News' special "El Clasico" section during the coming weeks by clicking here.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[AC Milan v Palermo – Coppa Italia semi-final preview]]>
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri insists he will field a full-strength squad for tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final tie with Palermo.

Milan currently hold a six-point advantage at the top of Serie A and many believed the cup would be sacrificed in the Rossoneri’s pursuit of the treble.

But Allegri is determined to lead Milan to glory in this competition for the first time since 2003, and he will not be leaving out his stars for tonight’s first leg at the San Siro.

He said: “We want to win this trophy. My players are very motivated because they have not won it for a long time.

“We have the duty to try to reach the final of the Coppa Italia and win the Scudetto.

“I will field the best team possible. We will not rest our important players. (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic will play with (Antonio Cassano) and Andrea Pirlo from the start.”

He added: “Palermo have great individual quality. They proved that last weekend when they won at Roma.

“They will also be looking to reach the final and we will try to stop them.”

Watch AC Milan v Palermo live at 365, kicking off at 19.45 BST.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Chelsea v Birmingham City preview]]>
Chelsea are again without Brazilian duo Alex and Ramires for tonight’s visit of Birmingham City to Stamford Bridge. (kick-off 19.45 BST)

Defender Alex and midfielder Ramires both missed the win over West Brom with hamstring injuries, and neither man have recovered in time to face Blues.

Branislav Ivanovic is doubtful for the Premier League champions after suffering a muscle strain at The Hawthorns, meaning Jose Bosingwa could be recalled into the starting XI in his absence.

Birmingham City are boosted by the return of winger Jean Beausejour from a hamstring injury, but a groin problem could rule out David Bentley.

Cameron Jerome is set to start up front again with Nikola Zigic still absent with a groin injury, and the giant Serb is joined on the sidelines Scott Dann (hamstring), Martin Jiranek (toe), James McFadden (knee) and Obafemi Martins (groin).

Last Premier League games:

West Brom 1 CHELSEA 3: Cech, Ivanovic (Bosingwa 63), Luiz, Terry, Cole, Essien, Mikel, Lampard (Benayoun 77), Kalou, Drogba (Torres 82), Malouda. Not Used: Turnbull, Zhirkov, Ferreira, Anelka. 

BIRMINGHAM CITY 2 Sunderland 0: Foster, Carr, Johnson, Ridgewell, Parnaby, Larsson (Fahey 88), Ferguson, Gardner, Bowyer, Phillips (Hleb 63), Jerome (Derbyshire 90). Not Used: Doyle, Bentley, Mutch, Davies.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham v Arsenal preview]]>
Tottenham could be boosted by the return of midfielder Steven Pienaar for tonight’s North London derby with Arsenal. (kick-off 19.45 BST)

Pienaar has been sidelined recently with a groin problem, but the South Africa international looks to have overcome the problem in time to face the Gunners.

Spurs welcome back forward Peter Crouch following his European ban, but a foot injury means Niko Kranjcar is doubtful.

Ledley King (groin) and Jonathan Woodgate (calf) have returned to training following their respective injuries, but the game comes too soon for them and they will watch from the sidelines with Alan Hutton and Wilson Palacios (both knee).

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will be able to call upon Bacary Sagna as the Gunners look to take advantage of Manchester United’s draw on Tuesday night and breathe new life into their title challenge.

Sagna returns from a knee injury and is expected to replace Emmanuel Eboue, who’s ill-advised challenge on Lucas Leiva led to Liverpool’s last-gasp equaliser at the weekend.

Wojciech Szczesny will be hoping to keep his place in goal but the Gunners do have Manuel Almunia (knee) fit again, as are Denilson (toe) and Tomas Rosicky (illness).

Last Premier League games:

TOTTENHAM 3 Stoke City 2: Gomes, Corluka, Dawson, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto (Gallas 89), Van der Vaart, Huddlestone, Modric, Bale, Pavlyuchenko, Crouch. Not used: Cudicini, Jenas, Defoe, Bassong, Rose, Sandro. 

ARSENAL 1 Liverpool 1: Szczesny, Eboue, Koscielny, Djourou, Clichy, Diaby (Song 81), Wilshere (Bendtner 72), Walcott (Arshavin 72), Fabregas, Nasri, van Persie. Not used: Lehmann, Squillaci, Gibbs, Chamakh.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Newcastle United 0 Manchester United 0]]>
Manchester United are back to seven points ahead of second placed Arsenal after being held to a goalless draw against Newcastle United.

Arsenal’s draw with Liverpool on Sunday saw the Gunners close the gap to six points, but United edged further ahead at St James’ Park.

The draw also sees Newcastle move on to the magical 40 points mark for the season which should see them avoid relegation to the Championship.

The visitors almost got off to a dream start when Javier Hernandez was denied a second minute goal thanks to a great save from Tim Krul, while the hosts refused to lie down and had a number of chances themselves with Joey Barton in fine form.

In the second half the home side had claims for a penalty waved away after Peter Lovenkrands went down under a challenge from Anderson, but referee Lee Probert waved play on - that would not be the last time the official had to make a big decision.

Ryan Giggs was guilty of wasting a great chance for the Red Devils when he blazed over the crossbar after he was neatly teed up by Patrice Evra, while Magpies debutant Stephen Ireland fired wide with a volley which would have capped a dream start for the ex-Manchester City midfielder.

Nani could have won it for Manchester United in the 78th minute but his curling effort from the edge of the penalty area went just wide.

Michael Owen came on for the visitors for the last ten minutes to a chorus of boos and stinging chants following his less than amicable departure from Newcastle, while Giggs again fired wide as they pushed for a late winner.

There was time for some late drama when Hernandez was booked for diving in the penalty area in injury time as Danny Simpson seemed to lunge in at the Mexican.


Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona: Road to Copa del Rey final]]>

REAL MADRID

LAST 32

First leg – Real Murcia 0 Real Madrid 0: Casillas, Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa, M. Diarra, Pedro Leon, Canales, Granero (Khedira 63), Ronaldo (Di Maria 70), Benzema (Higuain 63).

Second leg – Real Madrid 5 Real Murcia 1: Casillas, Albiol, Ramos, Marcelo, Arbeloa, Granero, M. Diarra Pedro Leon (Di Maria 71), Canales (Alonso 57), Benzema, Higuain  (Ronaldo 47).
Goals: Granero 4, Higuain 44, Ronaldo 75, Benzema pen 85, Alonso 89.

LAST 16

First leg – Real Madrid 8 Levante 0: Casillas, Pepe, Albiol, Marcelo, L. Diarra, Alonso, Granero (M. Diarra 76), Ozil (Pedro Leon 76), Di Maria, Ronaldo, Benzema (Morata 79).
Goals: Benzema 6, 32, 69, Ozil 10, Ronaldo 45, 72, 74, Pedro Leon 89

Second leg – Levante 2 Real Madrid 0: Adan, Carvalho (Pepe 47), Gago, Benzema (Kaka 56), Granero, Mateos (Juanfran 70), Canales, Arbeloa, Garay, Pedro Leon, Khedira.

QUARTER-FINALS

First leg – Real Madrid 3 Atletico Madrid 1: Casillas, Carvalho, Ramos, Ronaldo, Benzema (Kaka 56), Marcelo, Alonso, Arbeloa, Di Maria (Granero 90), Ozil (Gago 90), Khedira.
Goals: Ramos 14, Ronaldo 61, Ozil 90

Second leg – Atletico Madrid 0 Real Madrid 1: Casillas, Carvalho, Ramos, Ronaldo, Marcelo, Alonso, Arbeloa, Albiol, Di Maria (Granero 69), Ozil (Kaka 75), Khedira (Gago 83).
Goal: Ronaldo 23

SEMI-FINALS

First leg – Sevilla 0 Real Madrid 1: Casillas, Carvalho, Ramos, Ronaldo, Benzema (Di Maria 68), L. Diarra (Marcelo 56), Alonso, Arbeloa, Albiol, Ozil (Granero 85), Khedira.
Goal: Benzema 17

Second leg – Real Madrid 2 Sevilla 0: Casillas, Carvalho, Ramos, Ronaldo, Benzema (Adebayor 84), Alonso, Arbeloa, Albiol, Di Maria (Granero 88), Ozil, Khedira (L. Diarra 90).
Goals: Ozil 82, Adebayor 90

 

BARCELONA

LAST 32

First leg – Cueta 0 Barcelona 2: Pinto, Adriano, Barta, Fontas, Maxwell, Mascherano, Thiago Alcantara (Dos Santos 87), Keita, Jeffren (Nolito 33), Bojan, Pedro
Goals: Maxwell 16, Pedro 25

Second leg – Barcelona 5 Cueta 1: Pinto, Adriano, Bartra, Milito (Abidal 39), Maxwell (Roberto 65), Mascherano, Keita, Thiago, Bojan, Nolito, Pedro (Messi 61).
Goals: Nolito 2, Milito 7, Pedro 50, Bojan 64, Messi 68

LAST 16

First leg – Barcelona 0 Athletic Bilbao 0: Pinto, Alves, Pique, Xavi, Iniesta, Bojan (Villa 63), Mascherano (Adriano 79), Keita (Messi 54), Pedro, Maxwell, Abidal.

Second leg – Athletic Bilbao 1 Barcelona 1: Pinto, Alves, Pique, Xavi (Puyol 77), Villa (Afellay 90), Messi, Keita, Busquets, Pedro, Adriano (Iniesta 61), Abidal.
Goals: Abidal 75

QUARTER-FINALS

First leg – Barcelona 5 Real Betis 0: Pinto, Alves, Pique, Puyol, Xavi, Villa (Keita 74), Iniesta, Messi (Jeffren 86), Busquets, Pedro (Afellay 80), Maxwell.
Goals: Messi 44, 62, 73, Pedro 76, Keita 83

Second leg – Real Betis 3 Barcelona 1: Pinto, Pique, Xavi (Busquets 78), Bojan (Jeffren 86), Messi, Mascherano, Keita, Milito, Maxwell, Afellay (Abidal 78), Adriano.
Goals: Messi 38

SEMI-FINALS

First leg – Barcelona 5 Almeria 0: Pinto, Pique, Xavi (Keita 74), Villa (Afellay 66), Iniesta, Messi, Mascherano, Pedro, Maxwell (Milito 82), Adriano, Abidal.
Goals: Messi 9, 16, Villa 11, Pedro 31, Keita 89

Second leg – Almeria 0 Barcelona 3: Pinto, Alves, Bojan, Mascherano, Keita, Busquets (Pique 46), Milito, Afellay, Adriano, Nolito, Thiago Alcantara.
Goals: Adriano 35, Thiago Alcantara 56, Afellay 66


Watch Real Madrid v Barcelona live at 365, kicking off at 20.30 BST.


Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[AS Roma v Inter Milan live preview]]>

AS Roma coach Vincenzo Montella has raised the stakes ahead of tonight’s Coppa Italia semi-final first-leg against Inter Milan.

The Giallarossi suffered heartache in last season’s final as they slipped to feat at the hands of Inter and they will be keen to gain revenge when they kick off their tie with the holders at the Stadio Olimpico this evening as both sides look to put their recent struggles to one side.

And Montella said: “It'll be a really important match for a lot of reasons.

“First of all, it is a semi-final and we could win the trophy at the Olympic Stadium in front of our fans for the 10th time in the history of the club.

“Secondly, Roma and Inter are having, for different reasons, a very difficult moment because of recent results obtained in Serie A and in the Champions League.”

He added: “Inter has quality players and it's not necessary now for me to list their qualities because we all know that.

“They are more or less the same team of last year, the same that did so well in Italy and Europe.”

Watch AS Roma v Inter Milan live at 365, kicking off at 19.45 GMT.


Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Newcastle United v Manchester United preview]]>

Manchester United welcome back Wayne Rooney from suspension for tonight’s trip to Newcastle United. (kick-off 19.45 BST)

Rooney has sat out the last two matches, one of which was the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Manchester City, after being handed a ban for swearing into television camera.

The Red Devils also welcome back Jonny Evans from a ban, but Paul Scholes will miss the next three games after being sent off for a reckless challenge during the Wembley Stadium loss to City.

Darren Fletcher remains absent with a virus, and he joins Anders Lindegaard , Rafael da Silva (both knee) and Owen Hargreaves (shoulder) on the sidelines.

A one-match suspension rules out Newcastle United’s leading goalscorer Kevin Nolan, and he joins Dan Gosling (knee), Hatem Ben Arfa (broken leg), Alan Smith and Leon Best (both ankle).

The Magpies have doubts over Steve Harper and Shola Ameobi (both knee), but they are boosted by the return of James Perch and Cheik Tiote from suspension, and on-loan midfielder Stephen Ireland could finally make his long-awaited debut.

Last Premier League games:

Aston Villa 1 NEWCASTLE UNITED 0: Harper, Coloccini, Enrique, Williamson, Simpson, S. Taylor (R. Taylor 63), Barton, Guthrie, Gutierrez, Lovenkrands, Ranger (Kuqi 83). Not used: Krul, Tavernier, Ferguson, Donaldson, Richardson.

MANCHESTER UNITED 2 Fulham 0: Kuszczak, Evra, Smalling, Vidic, O’Shea, Anderson (Fabio 76), Nani (Carrick 87), Scholes, Valencia (Owen 73), Gibson, Berbatov. Not used: Van der Sar, Brown, Park, Hernandez.


Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Newcastle United v Manchester United classics]]>

Newcastle United and Manchester United meet tonight in the next instalment of one of the Premier League’s most heated rivalries.

The two teams have served up some of the top flight’s most memorable games and moments over the years, from one-sided drubbings to Kevin Keegan’s infamous “I will love it” rant, and let’s not forget the Magpies’ decision to sell red-hot forward Andy Cole to United which angered the Toon army.

So ahead of this evening’s match, Football News are taking a look back at two classic St James’ Park showdowns between the two teams.

 

Newcastle United 5 Manchester United 0
Premier League
October 20, 1996

United arrived at St James’ Park with goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel having not conceded for over nine hours of play, but that run would come to an end in spectacular fashion.

Darren Peacock needed just 13 minutes to put the Magpies ahead, and David Ginola doubled their advantage when he turned his marked on the edge of the area and fired an unstoppable shot into the back of the net.

Les Ferdinand headed home the third before Alan Shearer reacted quickest following a Schmeichel block, and Phillipe Albert capped off a famous victory by producing a stunning chip that wrote his name into Newcastle United folklore.

 

Newcastle United 1 Manchester United 5
Premier League
February 23, 2008

Newcastle were desperate to avoid another embarrassing defeat having been crushed 6-0 at Old Trafford the month before, but it was United that once again took the points in emphatic fashion.

Wayne Rooney volleyed the visitors in front and Cristiano Ronaldo then extended their lead by slotting home a Michael Carrick pass.

Ronaldo rounded Steve Harper to fire home the third before Abdoulaye Faye pulled one back for the hosts, but Rooney and former Magpies forward Louis Saha then completed a comprehensive victory for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.


Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona – The story so far]]>

Real Madrid and Barcelona go head-to-head on Wednesday night to determine this season’s Copa del Rey winner.

Watch Real Madrid v Barcelona live at 365, kicking off at 20.30 BST.

Madrid will be desperate to ensure Barca – who currently hold an eight-point advantage at the top of the table – do not walk away with a domestic double this season.

However, the omens are not looking good for Jose Mourinho’s men, who took just one point from their two league meetings with the Catalan giants this season.

And as we continue our build-up to another huge showdown between these two fierce rivals, with two more to come after this one, Football News are taking a look at the story so far.

Barcelona 5 Real Madrid 0
La Liga
November 29, 2010

Barcelona surged to the top of the Primera Liga table with a sensational 5-0 rout of fierce rivals Real Madrid.

The Catalan giants gave a sign of what was to come when Lionel Messi’s sublime chip from a tight angle struck the upright, but the opener soon came when Xavi produced a calm finish to beat Iker Casillas.

Barca then doubled their advantage when David Villa beat fellow Spain international Sergio Ramos and crossed for Pedro to slot the ball home.

Villa was denied by a smart save from Casillas after the break, but the hosts then delighted the Camp Nou crowd with two goals in three minutes to effectively end the match as a contest.

First, Villa raced onto a pinpoint Messi pass to slot home Barca’s third, and the summer signing from Valencia then made it four by nutmegging Casillas.

Sergio Busquets almost added to the embarrassment with a shot from the halfway that just dipped too late, but a fifth did come when Jeffren converted a Bojan cross.

And Madrid’s miserable night was completed in added time when Ramos saw red.

Real Madrid 1 Barcelona 1
La Liga
April 16, 2011

Cristiano Ronaldo netted a late penalty as Real Madrid rescued a 1-1 draw with Barcelona to keep their fading La Liga title dream alive.

Madrid were desperate to gain revenge for the 5-0 hammering they suffered at the hands of Barca last November but, more importantly, they could not afford to see the gap between themselves and the league leaders extend to 11 points with a defeat.

They almost fell behind on 20 minutes when Andres Iniesta played a ball over the top of the Madrid defence for Lionel Messi to run onto, but the normally clinical Argentinian failed with his attempt to lob Iker Casillas.

Madrid responded well and Karim Benzema troubled Victor Valdes before Ronaldo headed over from close range, and they then survived a scare at the other end when David Villa went to ground under a challenge from Casillas, but the official waved away Barca’s appeal for a penalty kick.

Both sides then fashioned chances before half time as Messi forced a fine save from Casillas before Ronaldo was denied by a superb goal-line clearance from Adriano as the first 45 minutes ended goalless.

Ronaldo clattered the upright with a trademark free-kick in the early stages of the second period, and Madrid suddenly found themselves a goal and a man down moments later.

Villa was hauled to the ground by Raul Albiol and the referee had no other option to point to the spot and show the red card to the Real defender, and Messi then stepped up to net his 49th goal in all competitions this season.

Barca suffered a setback when Carles Puyol, just back from injury, was stretchered off, but they did not dwell on the loss and almost doubled their advantage when Xavi struck Casillas’ crossbar.

Despite their numerical disadvantage Madrid were looking threatening, but Angel Di Maria and Pepe both wasted glorious chances as the hosts looked set for a sixth successive defeat in the El Clasico derby.

But seven minutes from time Marcelo was upended by Dani Alves as he raced into the box, and Ronaldo coolly slotted home the resulting penalty to ensure Madrid remain within eight points of the visitors.


Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[PFA Championship Team of the Year]]>
Professional Footballers' Association's Championship Team of the Year:

GOALKEEPER
Paddy Kenny, Queens Park Rangers

DEFENDERS
Kyle Naughton, Leicester City
Ian Harte, Reading
Ashley Williams, Swansea City
Wes Morgan, Nottingham Forest

MIDFIELDERS
Adel Taarabt, Queens Park Rangers
Scott Sinclair, Swansea City
Andy King, Leicester City
Wes Hoolahan, Norwich City

FORWARDS
Danny Graham, Watford
Grant Holt, Norwich City

Click here for Championship News]]><![CDATA[PFA Premier League Team of the Year]]>
Professional Footballers' Association's Premier League Team of the Year:

GOALKEEPER
Edwin Van der Sar, Manchester United

DEFENDERS
Bacary Sagna, Arsenal
Ashley Cole, Chelsea
Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United
Vincent Kompany, Manchester City

MIDFIELDERS
Nani, Manchester United
Samir Nasri, Arsenal
Jack Wilshere, Arsenal
Gareth Bale, Tottenham

FORWARDS
Carlos Tevez, Manchester City
Dimitar Berbatov, Manchester United

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Jack Wilshere named PFA Young Player of the Year]]>
Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere has won the Professional Footballers’ Association award for Young Player of the Year.

The 19-year-old, who spent part of last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, has become a key figure in the Gunners’ starting XI this season to force his way into England’s senior team.

And Wilshere’s fine form has now been rewarded with the PFA prize at a gala event in London.

He said: “It is my first full season and it is a massive award, especially from my fellow players. It is amazing.

“I am very proud to be the fifth recipient from Arsenal, it is good to keep this history going.

“Arsenal is a good club for bringing youngsters through and they keep proving it so I would like to thank the manager as well.”

He added: “I am a bit surprised. I always knew I could do but still it was a surprise how early it came.

“I am delighted just to be in the team to win an award, so I have to keep it up now and hopefully we can win something this year.”

Click here for Arsenal FC News]]><![CDATA[Gareth Bale named PFA Player of the Year]]>
Tottenham wide-man Gareth Bale has been named the Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year.

The 21-year-old’s stock has gone through the roof this season with a string of sensational performances for Spurs in both the Premier League and the Champions League, most notably in the clashes with Inter Milan during the group stage.

Bale netted a wonderful solo hat-trick as Spurs almost came from 4-0 down to rescue a point at the Giuseppe Meazza, and the Wales international then produced another dazzling display when they two teams met again at White Hart Lane, setting up all three goals as Spurs stunned the European champions.

That form earned him the attention of European football’s most prestigious clubs and it has now landed him the PFA award from his peers, making him the fourth Welshman to receive the prize.

Bale said: “I am more than delighted really. It is a massive award and it is a great honour to receive, especially from other fellow professionals.

“It is a honour really when you look at the names that have won it before and it just makes you go 'wow' really. There haven't been too many Welshman to have won the trophy but it is great and it is great for me personally.

“And it is not just for me, it is for all my team-mates that have helped me through the season and it is kind of for everyone really.”

Click here for Tottenham Hotspur FC News]]><![CDATA[Jamie Carragher 'fine' following collision]]>
Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has insisted he is “absolutely fine” after being knocked out during Sunday’s draw with Arsenal.

Carragher was knocked unconscious in a collision with team-mate John Flanagan at the Emirates Stadium and was treated on the field for some time before being stretchered off wearing a neck brace.

However, the 33-year-old was back pitchside following a dramatic finale that saw Robin van Persie put the Gunners ahead eight minutes into added time only for Dirk Kuyt to level with a penalty kick of his own three minutes later.

And Carragher said afterwards: “I can't remember anything. As soon as I came round I was absolutely fine.

“It was a little clash of heads and these things happen in football.

“The main thing was to get the three points.

“I watched their penalty in the dressing room and then saw that we got our own. I was just praying that we scored because to get four points out of six from the last two games is fantastic.

“I went out onto the pitch at the end because I wanted to celebrate with the lads.”

And Carragher had special praise for his team-mates that clinched a point after the Reds lost him, Fabio Aurelio and Andy Carroll to injury during the game.

The Reds finished the game with three teenagers on the pitch – John Flanagan, Jack Robinson and Jonjo Shelvey – and Carragher added: “Some of the players we had out there, because of the injuries we had, still qualify for the youth team so it was a really good team performance.”

Click here for Liverpool FC News]]><![CDATA[Villarreal v Real Zaragoza live preview]]>
Villarreal coach Juan Carlos Garrido believes tonight’s clash with Real Zaragoza is the biggest game his side will face this season.

Fourth-placed Villarreal were hammered 5-0 by Valencia last weekend to fall nine points third-placed Los Che, who hold the final automatic qualifying spot for next season’s Champions League.

The Yellow Submarine’s current standing would at least place them in the qualifying rounds for the competition but Garrido still has his sights on catching Valencia, and they can close the gap to six points, with six games remaining, if they win their game-in-hand against Real Zaragoza tonight.

And Garrido said: “It's a match where we can take a giant step and define our chances of playing in the Champions League next season.”

He added: “We should congratulate everyone for what we've done up until now, both the players and all those who work day in day out at Villarreal because we are exceeding our objectives.

“The players are having an extraordinary season and we are competing in two competitions at a great level.”

While Villarreal head into this game on the back of successive defeats, Real Zaragoza will be looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Getafe last time out.

Watch Villarreal v Real Zaragoza live at 365, kicking off at 20.00 BST.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Nacional Madeira v Sporting Braga live preview]]>
Sporting Braga can confirm their place in the qualifying rounds for next season’s Europa League with a victory at Nacional Madeira tonight.

Third-placed Braga hold an eight-point lead over Nacional, who lead the pack chasing a place in Europe, and if Domingo Paciencia’s side can claim the three points in this one they would open up an unassailable lead over their hosts with three games to go.

A defeat would not be the end of the world for Nacional however, because they trail Victoria Guimaraes in the final qualifying spot by just two points.

While Sporting Braga head into this game on the back of a five-match winning run in the league, having beaten Vitoria Guimaraes 3-1 last time out, Nacional Medeira will be in desperate need of a victory following a 1-1 draw with Maritimo Funchal.

Watch Nacional Madeira v Sporting Braga live at 365, kicking off at 20.15 BST.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Karlsruher v Augsburg live preview]]>
Augsburg head to Karlsruher tonight knowing they must claim three points if they are to keep their title bid alive.

Second-placed Augsburg are six points behind 2. Bundesliga leaders Hertha Berlin heading into their 30th game of the campaign, but Jos Lihukay’s side do have a game-in-hand and that is tonight’s trip to struggling Karlsruher.

Therefore a victory is imperative for them to close the gap to just three points and keep the pressure on Berlin over the final four rounds of fixtures, although second place would be enough to secure their promotion to the Bundesliga.

Karlsruher, meanwhile, are languishing just above the relegation zone, one place and two points clear of the relegation play-off spot and just four points clear of the drop zone itself, so they will be desperate to pick up some points from this one.

While Augsburg head into this game on the back of a goalless draw with fellow promotion hopefuls Greuther Furth, Karlsruher will be looking to end their three-match winless run, although they have drawn their last two outings.

Watch Karlsruher v Augsburg live at 365, kicking off at 19.15 BST.


Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Le Mans v Le Havre live preview]]>
Le Mans could move into Ligue 2’s promotion places, and hurt Le Havre’s chances in the process, when they meet tonight.

Fifth-placed Le Mans are just two points behind Dijon Fco ahead of their game-in-hand at MMArena this evening, and they will hope to enter their final seven games among the top three as the race for promotion to France’s top flight heats up.

However, they are fortunate to still be in the running because of a poor run of form that has seen them fail to win since February 12, although they do come into this game on the back of four successive draws.

Le Havre, meanwhile, are also in the reckoning, one place and one point behind their hosts, and they know a defeat to their rivals would be a major blow in their bid to seal a place in Ligue 1 for next season.

While Le Mans head into this game on the back of three straight goalless draws against Clermont Foot, Sco Angers and FC Istres, Le Havre will be looking to end a three-match winless run following their 1-1 draw at Nimes last time out.

Watch Le Mans v Le Havre live at 365, kicking off at 19.30 BST.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona – Jose Mourinho v Pep Guardiola]]>
Real Madrid and Barcelona renew their rivalry in Wednesday night’s Copa del Rey final, which you can watch live at 365.

And ahead of their showdown at the Mestalla, Football News are taking a look at the two managers who have both enjoyed much success in their careers already, Jose Mourinho and Josep ‘Pep’ Guardiola.


JOSE MOURINHO, REAL MADRID

Date of birth: January 26, 1963
Nationality: Portuguese
Coaching career: Benfica, Leiria, FC Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid
  • A former teacher, Mourinho had spells working at Sporting, Porto and Barcelona as a coaching assistant in the 1990s.
  • As coach, had a nine-game spell at Benfica and a highly successful tenure at Leiria before getting his big break with Porto in January 2002. In his first full season, 2002/03, Porto won the UEFA Cup and a domestic double. The next year they retained their league title and claimed the UEFA Champions League with a 3-0 defeat of AS Monaco FC in Gelsenkirchen. 
  • Joined Chelsea in 2004 and led the club to their first league championship for 50 years and the League Cup in his first season. Followed up with the league title again in 2006, and both the League Cup and FA Cup in 2007.
  • Left Chelsea in September 2007 and stayed out of football until joining Inter in June 2008. In his first campaign the Nerazzurri retained their Serie A crown, a feat they repeated in 2009/10 when they also added the Coppa Italia and the UEFA Champions League title, their first European Champion Clubs' Cup win since 1965. Victory at the Santiago Bernabeu was Mourinho's last act as Inter coach before joining Madrid on a four-year deal.


JOSEP 'PEP' GUARDIOLA, BARCELONA

Date of birth: January 18, 1971
Nationality: Spanish
Playing career: Barcelona, Brescia (twice), Roma, Al-Ahly Club, Dorados de Sinaloa
Coaching career: Barcelona B, Barcelona
  • Known as 'Pep', he came up through Barcelona's youth ranks to win six Spanish Liga titles, one European Champion Clubs' Cup, a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and two Copa del Rey trophies from 1990 to 2001. Also had spells with Brescia, Fabio Capello's Roma, Al-Ahly in Doha and Mexico's Dorados de Sinola before ending his playing career in 2006.
  • Won 40 caps and Olympic footballing gold with Spain in 1992, but missed the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cup tournaments through injury.
  • Having coached Barcelona's B team, became the 15th Catalan-born boss of the senior team in 2008 and won the UEFA Champions League, Spanish Liga and Copa del Rey in his first season in charge.
  • Success in the 2008/09 final made Guardiola the sixth man to lift the European Cup as a player and a coach. Barcelona followed up with victories in the Spanish and UEFA Super Cups at the start of 2009/10, going on to win the FIFA Club World Cup and retain the Liga title.
For more from our special "El Clasico" section, please click here.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Arsenal 1 Liverpool 1]]>
Dirk Kuyt netted 11 minutes into added time as Liverpool dented Arsenal’s title dream with a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners entered the game seven points behind leaders Manchester United and started brightly as they looked to close the gap, Abou Diaby heading just wide after beating his marker to a Samir Nasri free-kick.

The visitors were dealt a setback on 21 minutes when Fabio Aurelio was forced off with injury and the Reds’ new-look defence, which featured teenage full-backs Jack Robinson and John Flanagan, then survived a scare when Laurent Koscielny clattered the crossbar with a header.

Theo Walcott’s appeal for a penalty was waved away after his shot appeared to strike the arm of Kuyt, and Martin Skrtel then got in the way of an Emmanuel Eboue effort as the two teams entered the break on level terms.

Liverpool were dealt a further injury blow when Jamie Carragher suffered a head injury in a collision with team-mate Flanagan, and the veteran defender needed lengthy treatment before going off.

Luis Suarez fired just wide with a rare chance for the Reds as the second half unfolded, while at the other end Robin van Persie was off-target with a chipped effort before heading another chance wide.

Reina then saved well from the Dutchman in a one-on-one situation as frustration grew at the Emirates Stadium, but the tension was finally lifted eight minutes into added time when van Persie coolly slotted home a penalty after Jay Spearing tripped Cesc Fabregas.

However, there would be even more drama when Eboue needlessly bundled over Lucas Leiva to gift Liverpool a penalty of their own, and Kuyt celebrated his contract extension by keeping his nerve to fire home the equaliser with the last kick of the game.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Bolton Wanderers 0 Stoke City 5]]>
Stoke City thrashed Bolton Wanderers 5-0 to set up an FA Cup final clash with Manchester City on May 14.

Bidding to reach the first FA Cup final in their history, the Potters raced out of the blocks and Jonathan Walters forced Jussi Jaaskelainen into an early save.

Wanderers responded as Gary Cahill fired over, but that was as good as it got for Owen Coyle’s men once Stoke struck twice in six minutes around the quarter-of-an-hour mark.

Matthew Etherington unleashed a powerful strike past Jaaskelainen after capitalising on a poor pass by Paul Robinson, and Robert Huth then produced a clinical finish after Cahill’s weak header fell invitingly to him.

Stoke made it 3-0 on 30 minutes when Jermaine Pennant stole the ball from Martin Petrov and fed Kenwyne Jones, who sent the red and white half of Wembley Stadium into raptures with a cool finish.

Wanderers were shell-shocked and manager Coyle responded by making a double substitution at half-time, sending on Matt Taylor and Mark Davier for Ivan Klasnic and Martin Petrov, but a comeback never looked possible as Stoke threatened to run up an embarrassing score.

Jones forced a smart save from Jaaskelainen before seeing a powerful strike blocked by Robinson, but a fourth goal was looking increasingly likely and it arrived with 22 minutes left when Walters surged forward, cut inside his man and fired a low shot into the bottom corner.

And Walters then completed the rout with his second goal of the game nine minutes from time, finding the net with the aid of a deflection after getting on the end of Jones’ cross.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Napoli v Udinese live preview]]>
Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri has urged his side not to throw away all of their hard work during the run-in.

Partenopei have been Serie A’s surprise package this season and are second in the table with just six games remaining, six points behind league leaders AC Milan.

A place in next season’s Champions League would be a major accomplishment for Napoli and with his side battling Inter Milan, Lazio, Udinese and Roma for a place, Mazzarri has told them not to blow their big chance.

Speaking ahead of today’s clash with Udinese, he said: “We have done so much already and we just hope not throw away all the good work in our last six games.

“No-one expect us to be in this position at this stage of the campaign but we are just focusing on ourselves.

“With respect to AC Milan and Inter, we have a more challenging rival this weekend because Udinese, even without (Antonio) Di Natale and (Alexis) Sanchez, are a great side.”

While Napoli head into this game on the back of four successive wins having beaten Bologna 2-0 last time out, Udinese will be looking to bounce back from back-to-back defeats to Lecce and Roma.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Catania v Lazio live preview]]>
Edy Reja has called on his Lazio team to overcome their away day struggles when they visit Catania today.

Lazio regained fourth spot in Serie A last weekend and are just six games from booking their place in the qualifying rounds of next season’s Champions League.

But their away form has been poor with one win from their last 10 trips, and Reja admits they must start winning on the road if they want to compete with Europe’s elite clubs next season.

He said: “We have struggled to show our best form on the road.

“But we still have four games away from home left to play and regardless of who we face, we need to give everything.”

He added: “We are in contention to achieve something important and everyone must give their contribution.

“We are very happy to be back in fourth place and hopefully, we can remain in this position by season's end.”

While Lazio head into this game on the back of a 2-0 victory over Parma they have lost their last three away games, Catania have taken four points from their last two games as they battle against relegation.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Fiorentina v Juventus live preview]]>
Fiorentina forward Luca Toni insists it will be business as usual when he faces former side Juventus today.

The Viola are desperately in need of three points if they want to have any hope of qualifying for next season’s Europa League, although their chances of finishing in the top six are looking pretty slim.

And Toni is focused on leading his current employers to victory over Juve, with whom he spent two years between 2005 and 2007.

The 33-year-old said: “For them this is their last important game and they will be eager to do well.

“This match for us could be crucial for our European qualifying hopes. To win in Florence would be a big boost in confidence for us.”

But he did admit: “It's a strange feeling to return to Florence and play against a team with which I spent two fantastic seasons.

“In Florence I won the trophy for top scorer in Serie A in my first season at the club. We were a great group and I have many fond memories of my time there.”

While Fiorentina will look to end a three-match winless run following a 2-1 defeat to AC Milan last time out, Juventus will be bidding for a fourth successive victory following wins over Brescia, Roma and Genoa.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Borussia Dortmund v SC Freiburg live preview]]>
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp believes today’s clash with SC Freiburg will be crucial in the Bundesliga title race.

Dortmund currently hold a five-point lead over Bayer Leverkusen at the top of Germany’s top tier, with their title rivals visiting Bayern Munich today.

If Leverkusen suffer a defeat at the hands of the Allianz Arena giants and Dortmund clinch the three points against SC Freiburg, Klopp’s men could wrap up the title when they face rock-bottom Borussia Monchengladbach next weekend.

The Dortmund boss said: “It is super Sunday in the Bundesliga. And we are up at 1730.”

And Klopp then called on the club’s supporters to play their part in the march to the title, with an 80,000 sell-out crowd expected at the Westfalenstadion today.

He added: “We are happy to have the fans lift us and anybody who wants to help out in making it an extraordinary atmosphere is more than welcome.”

While Borussia Dortmun head into this game on the back of a 1-1 draw at Hamburg, SC Freiburg will be looking to build on a 3-2 victory over Hoffenheim last time out.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Bayern Munich v Bayer Leverkusen live preview]]>
Jupp Heynckes insists there will be no split loyalties when Bayer Leverkusen visit future employers Bayern Munich today.

Leverkusen head to the Allianz Arena knowing that a victory would secure second place in the Bundesliga, and a place in next season’s Champions League, while the defeat would leave Bayern in danger of missing out on a place among Europe’s elite under Heynckes in the 2011/12 campaign.

But he insists he is focused on the job at hand with Leverkusen despite the fact it will impact his first season in charge of Bayern.

Heynckes said: “If we win, then nobody is going to take second place from us anymore and we will be in the Champions League again next season.

“We are self-confident and strong enough to be able to say that we want to win in Munich.

“For me personally, this game is neither awkward nor explosive.

“I have a contract with Bayer Leverkusen until June 30 and I will give it all of my energy and know-how so that we end the season successfully.”

While Bayern Munich head into this game on the back of a three-match unbeaten run that has kept them in the Champions League reckoning, Leverkusen have strengthen their grip on second place with an eight-match unbeaten run of their own.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Paris St Germain v Lyon live preview]]>
Lyon will be aiming to keep pace with the top two when they visit Paris St Germain later today.

Claude Puel’s side currently occupy the third and final qualifying berth for next season’s Champions League, and they are by no means out of the race for the French Ligue 1 title.

Lyon head into their 31st game of the season just two points behind second-placed Marseille, and they are just six behind leaders Lille with eight games remaining.

However, they do have a game-in-hand over the table-toppers following their shock 1-1 draw with Bordeaux on Saturday, meaning they could end the weekend just three points behind Rudi Garcia’s side.

While Lyon head into this game on the back of a 3-0 victory over Lens, Paris St Germain recorded a 2-1 victory at Caen last time out.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Montpellier v Marseille live preview]]>
Marseille will be looking to capitalise on Lille’s slip-up when they visit Montpellier this afternoon.

Second-placed OM entered the 31st round of fixtures just three points behind the French Ligue 1 leaders, but they have been handed a huge incentive to pick up three points at Stade de la Mosson after seeing Lille held to a 1-1 draw by Bordeaux on Saturday.

A win today would move Marseille within a single point of Lille with seven games remaining, and they will also be wary of third-placed Lyon and fourth-placed Stade Rennais who are also in the fight for the title and one of the three qualifying spots for next season’s Champions League.

While Marseille head into this match on a four-game unbeaten run in the league, drawing 2-2 with Toulouse last time out, Montpellier will be aiming to bounce back from the disappointing 1-1 draw with Nice.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[NEC v Ajax live preview]]>
Ajax visit NEC today as they continue their pursuit of the top two teams in the Dutch Eredivisie.

Ajax currently occupy third place in the table, which would earn them a place in the Europa League next season, but they are a solitary point behind second-placed PSV Eindhoven, in the final Champions League qualifying berth, and three points behind league leaders FC Twente.

Therefore they know a victory against NEC would at least keep the pressure on the top two, and it could see them improve their position if either PSV or Twente slip up on their travels this afternoon.

While Ajax will be looking to record their third successive victory in the league, having beaten FC Groningen 2-0 last time out, NEC will be aiming to build on a 4-1 win at VVV-Venlo.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Heracles v PSV Eindhoven live preview]]>
PSV Eindhoven visit Heracles today looking to keep the pressure on Dutch Eredivisie leaders FC Twente.

PSV are currently second in Holland’s top tier having collected 62 points from their 30 games played so far, and they are just two points behind table-toppers Twente.

They are also just one point ahead of third-placed Ajax and know that a defeat at mid-table Heracles could see them lose ground on the leaders as well as relinquishing the final Champions League qualifying place to Ajax should the Amsterdam outfit win at NEC.

While PSV look to put their Europa League disappointment behind them, Heracles will be hoping to build on the 6-2 demolition of Willem II last time out.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[De Graafschap v FC Twente live preview]]>
Dutch Eredivisie leaders FC Twente head to De Graafschap today with PSV Eindhoven and Ajax breathing down their necks.

Twente sit top of Holland’s top flight heading into their 31st league game of the season, but they hold a slender two-point advantage over second-placed PSV Eindhoven and a three-point lead over third-placed Ajax.

Therefore they know they cannot afford any slip-ups today against a De Graafschap side that is just one place and five points clear of the relegation zone.

While FC Twente will be looking to bounce back from their midweek Europa League exit, De Graafschap will be looking to end their three-game run without a victory as they battle against the drop.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Bolton Wanderers v Stoke City - FA Cup preview]]>
Bolton Wanderers are without in-form forward Daniel Sturridge for Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Stoke City. (kick-off 16.00 BST)

Sturridge has been in red-hot form since joining Wanderers on loan from Chelsea in January, netting six times in eight appearances for the North West outfit.

However, the 21-year-old is unable to play in this competition so manager Owen Coyle will turn to either Rodrigo Moreno or Ivan Klasnic for the match at Wembley Stadium, with the winners to face Manchester City on May 14.

Wanderers are boosted by the return of Mark Davies from an ankle injury, but they remain without long-term casualty Stuart Holden who will not return to action until next season.

Paul Robinson could return to the starting XI at left-back after missing the last two league matches as he walks a disciplinary tightrope, with one more booking meaning he would serve a suspension.

Stoke City, meanwhile, could be boosted by the return of veteran forward John Carew from a back injury that has kept him on the sidelines for the past four matches.

Manager Tony Pulis has confirmed Thomas Sorensen will start in goal for the Potters, but defender Danny Higginbotham will be forced to watch from the stands after suffering a season ending cruciate ligament injury.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Arsenal v Liverpool preview]]>
Arsenal could welcome back goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny for Sunday’s visit of Liverpool to the Emirates Stadium. (kick-off 16.00 BST)

Szczesny has been sidelined since injuring his finger during the Champions League defeat to Barcelona last month, forcing manager Arsene Wenger to bring Jens Lehmann out of retirement to help his goalkeeping crisis.

But the Pole could replace the former Germany international in the starting XI against the Reds.

Defensively Wenger also looks set to receive a boost with the return of Bacary Sagna (knee) and Johan Djourou (shoulder), but Thomas Vermaelen remains on the sidelines with an Achilles injury.

And the Gunners boss will also be waiting to learn if Manuel Almunia, Alex Song (both knee) and Denilson (toe) will be fit to feature.

Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has no new injuries to contend with and could continue with youngster John Flanagan at full-back following his fine debut display in the win over Manchester City.

But still missing for the Reds are Daniel Agger (knee), Glen Johnson, Martin Kelly (both hamstring) and captain Steven Gerrard (groin).

Last Premier League games:

Blackpool 1 ARSENAL 3: Lehmann, Eboue, Squillaci, Koscielny, Clichy, Diaby, Fabregas (Ramsey 88), Wilshere, Nasri (Gibbs 86), van Persie, Arshavin (Walcott 61). Not Used: Almunia, Rosicky, Chamakh, Bendtner.

LIVERPOOL 3 Manchester City 0: Reina, Flanagan, Carragher, Skrtel, Aurelio, Kuyt, Lucas, Spearing, Meireles, Suarez, Carroll (Ngog 90). Not Used: Gulacsi, Cole, Maxi, Wilson, Shelvey, Robinson.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid 1 Barcelona 1]]>
Cristiano Ronaldo netted a late penalty as Real Madrid rescued a 1-1 draw with Barcelona to keep their fading La Liga title dream alive.

Madrid were desperate to gain revenge for the 5-0 hammering they suffered at the hands of Barca last November but, more importantly, they could not afford to see the gap between themselves and the league leaders extend to 11 points with a defeat.

They almost fell behind on 20 minutes when Andres Iniesta played a ball over the top of the Madrid defence for Lionel Messi to run onto, but the normally clinical Argentinian failed with his attempt to lob Iker Casillas.

Madrid responded well and Karim Benzema troubled Victor Valdes before Ronaldo headed over from close range, and they then survived a scare at the other end when David Villa went to ground under a challenge from Casillas, but the official waved away Barca’s appeal for a penalty kick.

Both sides then fashioned chances before half time as Messi forced a fine save from Casillas before Ronaldo was denied by a superb goal-line clearance from Adriano as the first 45 minutes ended goalless.

Ronaldo clattered the upright with a trademark free-kick in the early stages of the second period, and Madrid suddenly found themselves a goal and a man down moments later.

Villa was hauled to the ground by Raul Albiol and the referee had no other option to point to the spot and show the red card to the Real defender, and Messi then stepped up to net his 49th goal in all competitions this season.

Barca suffered a setback when Carles Puyol, just back from injury, was stretchered off, but they did not dwell on the loss and almost doubled their advantage when Xavi struck Casillas’ crossbar.

Despite their numerical disadvantage Madrid were looking threatening, but Angel Di Maria and Pepe both wasted glorious chances as the hosts looked set for a sixth successive defeat in the El Clasico derby.

But seven minutes from time Marcelo was upended by Dani Alves as he raced into the box, and Ronaldo coolly slotted home the resulting penalty to ensure Madrid remain within eight points of the visitors.

The two teams will renew hostilities when they meet in the Copa del Rey final on Wednesday night, and Football News will be continuing our special coverage of this four-game series between the two teams in our “El Clasico” section, which you can access by clicking here.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[New York Red Bulls v San Jose Earthquakes live preview]]>
San Jose Earthquakes coach Frank Yallop has warned his side against being overconfident when they visit New York Red Bulls today.

The Eathquakes ousted their hosts in the MLS Cup playoffs last season, but Yallop insists that game means nothing when they bid for their second victory of the 2011 Major League Soccer campaign.

He said: “I wouldn’t say, ‘Oh, we won there, so it’s going to be easy again. No, for sure.

“Their last game was against us, to move on in the playoffs, and they’ll be ready to play against us, I’m sure.

“But our guys are just as ready to make sure we go in there with the right mentality and attitude and get a result.”

And winger Bobby Convey added: “Obviously, (the win) was last year, so it was a different team, a different season.

“Every time you start a new season, you always have to find your identity in the first five to 10 games. I think we’re still finding what we want to do.”

Both sides head into this game having recorded just one win so far this season, drawing once and losing twice.

Click here for Major League Soccer]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v FC Barcelona preview]]>
Barcelona can assert their dominance over Real Madrid once again in the Bernabeu on Saturday evening

The low point of Jose Mourinho’s managerial career came in November, when his Real Madrid side were beaten 5-0 by Barcelona in the Nou Camp in one of the most one sided ‘El Clasico’ matches of all time. The Portuguese will be looking for revenge this Saturday, when the bitter rivals meet in the Bernabeu but whether or not his team are capable of beating Barca is debatable.

While it is true that Real have a better home record than their rivals, having won 14 out of 15 matches in front of their own supporters, they are a massive eight points behind the La Liga leaders and are yet to prove themselves as credible challengers to Pep Guardiola’s side’s dominance of Spanish football.

The Catalans are favourites to win on Saturday and with Lionel Messi back amongst the goals at the weekend it is difficult to see past the visitors. The World Player of the Year has now netted 29 times in 31 league matches this season and is the favourite in the first goalscorer market. Messi’s strike partner, David Villa, may have scored less times than the Argentine this season but he scored twice against Real Madrid earlier in the season and makes slightly more appeal.

Real Madrid are underdogs to beat Barcelona and there will be some who will feel that those odds on a team with such a strong record are too good to turn down. However, Cristiano Ronaldo  is currently being nursed back to health, as is Kaka and while Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria  are both enjoying good seasons, they will struggle to make an impact against a well drilled Barcelona defence. 

Ultimately, the biggest problem for the hosts, as with all sides who play Barcelona, will be getting the ball. Madrid don’t play a short passing game like their rivals and instead look to move the ball from back to front as quickly as possible. This works to an extent and can catch out weaker teams but Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets don’t get drawn out of position as they never have to chase the ball. This means the Barca defence is always protected and the Real threat will be nullified.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Manchester City 1 Manchester United 0]]>
Manchester City ended Manchester United’s treble dream with a 1-0 victory in their FA Cup semi-final clash at Wembley Stadium.

Leading goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov was handed a starting role by Sir Alex Ferguson in the absence of Wayne Rooney through suspension, and the Bulgarian was guilty of wasting two fine chances as United dominated the early stages.

Berbatov was first played through after some neat build up play only to be foiled by a smart block from Joe Hart in the City goal, and the Red Devils striker then lifted his shot over the bar from close range after meeting a Nani delivery into the box.

City, who are bidding to end a 35-year wait for a major trophy, fashioned their first chances of the game in response as Gareth Barry fired into the side-netting before Mario Balotelli’s long-range strike was turned over the crossbar by United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

Joleon Lescott and Vincent Kompany were both off-target as Roberto Mancini’s men grew in confidence, and they finally went in front on 52 minutes after some calamitous defending by United.

Rio Ferdinand’s poor backpass was cleared only as far as David Silva by van der Sar, but John O’Shea reacted quickest to prevent the Spaniard getting a shot in on an empty goal. However, the ball fell to Michael Carrick and his dreadful pass across the face of his own goal was intercepted by Yaya Toure, and the Ivorian held off the midfielder before surging past Nemanja Vidic to roll the ball home between the legs of Van der Sar.

Lescott should have headed in a second as City had United on the ropes, but the red half of Manchester finally regained their composure and would have pulled level had Nani’s free-kick not been pushed onto the crossbar by Hart.

United’s task was made all the more difficult with 17 minutes left when Paul Scholes was shown the red card for a reckless high challenge on Pablo Zabaleta, and City closed out a famous victory that will now see them return to Wembley on May 14 to meet either Stoke City or Bolton Wanderers.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Everton 2 Blackburn Rovers 0]]>
Everton piled more pressure on struggling Blackburn Rovers with a 2-0 victory at Goodison Park.

Rovers nearly gifted their hosts a goal in the opening minutes when Jermaine Jones headed Tony Hibbert’s ball forward into the path of Jermaine Beckford, but the former Leeds United man failed to produce a composed finish and instead blazed his effort high and wide.

Toffees boss David Moyes then saw his injury woes added to when Johnny Heitinga was forced off after just quarter-of-an-hour with what appeared to be a hamstring injury, but it was them who always looked the more likely to open the scoring.

Magaye Gueye cleared the crossbar and Leighton Baines clipped the outside of the upright as Rovers hung on, but Everton finally took a deserved lead on 54 minutes when Leon Osman skipped past Ruben Rochina and fired in with the aid of a deflection off Christopher Samba.

Michel Salgado then almost gifted Gueye a goal with a poor pass, but the second goal did arrive with 15 minutes to play when Phil Jones brought down Seamus Coleman and Baines made no mistake from the spot.

Morten Gamst Pedersen should have given Rovers some hope late on but dragged a great chance wide of the post, and this defeat leaves Rovers just two places and two points clear of the relegation zone.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[West Brom 1 Chelsea 3]]>
Chelsea put their Champions League disappointment behind them to cruise to a 3-1 victory at West Brom.

The Blues were dumped out of Europe by Manchester United in midweek, and they were stunned on 17 minutes when Peter Odemwingie got away from the defence to give the in-form Baggies the lead with a neat chip over Petr Cech.

However, the reigning champions came storming back five minutes later and Scott Carson’s failure to deal with a Florent Malouda allowed the recalled Didier Drogba to fire in the equaliser after Nick Shorey’s clearance fell invitingly to the Ivorian.

It took another four minutes for the visitors to go in front and again Carson will take some of the blame after he parried Drogba’s long-range shot straight to Salomon Kalou, who made no mistake with a swift finish.

The Blues were now on top and Frank Lampard’s effort from range was tipped over by Carson, but the Albion goalkeeper could not prevent the England man adding a third just before the break following good work from Drogba and Malouda.

Drogba then made a key goalline clearance at the other end to ensure his side remained two goals to the good, and they could have had more as the second half progressed.

Carson did well to save from Malouda before Kalou was denied by the crossbar, and substitute Fernando Torres’ frustrations continued when he rounded Carson and slotted home only to see his first ‘goal’ for Chelsea ruled out by the offside flag.

The unmarked Spaniard then wasted another fine chance from Malouda’s free-kick but the Blues had done more than enough to claim the three points.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Birmingham City 2 Sunderland 0]]>
Birmingham City boosted their fight against relegation with a 2-0 victory over fellow strugglers Sunderland.

Blues almost took a second-minute lead over a youthful Black Cats side when Cameron Jerome ran on to Lee Bowyer's long-ball forward but the Simon Mignolet came to the visitors’ rescue with a decent stop with his feet.

Sunderland responded and Ben Foster was called into action by Lee Cattermole before Roger Johnson got in the way of a Stephane Sessegnon shot, but they suffered a huge setback when Birmingham when ahead four minutes before the break.

Both Mignolet and Phil Bardsley left a Jerome flick-on to each other and Sebastian Larsson, who looks set to leave Blues this summer, pounced on the loose ball to fire his side in front.

The Black Cats started the second half brightly as they looked for an equaliser, Jordan Henderson curling into the side-netting following neat one-touch passing from Asamoah Gyan and Danny Welbeck, and Bardsley then brought a brilliant diving save out of Foster.

But once again they failed to make their chances count and were punished with 24 minutes to go when Alexander Hleb beat a couple of men and laid the ball off for Craig Gardner to wrap up the points.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[West Ham 1 Aston Villa 2]]>
Gabriel Agbonlahor snatched a last-gasp winner as Aston Villa eased their relegation worries with a 2-1 win that leaves West Ham in the bottom three.

The Hammers could not have asked for a better start as Robbie Keane met Thomas Hitzlsperger’s header to turn and fire the home side in front after just two minutes at Upton Park.

Villa goalkeeper Brad Friedel had to be alert to deal with a long-range effort from Gary O’Neil as the Hammers sought a second, and the visitors then created their first chance of the game as Ashley Young forced a save from Robert Green.

They thought they had levelled matters when Darren Bent headed home a Stewart Downing cross only to see the ‘goal’ ruled out for a push, but the England international would not be denied the equaliser and it came when he glanced home a header after good work from Emile Heskey and Luke Young.

Inspired by the goal Villa went on the offensive and Green was called into action to deny Bent before Carlton Cole cleared a James Collins header off the goal-line, and Ashley Young’s superb free-kick was kept out by an equally brilliant save from Green as the visitors ramped up the pressure.

Bent then wasted a glorious chance from a couple of yards out, but Villa did clinched three fully-deserved points in added time when Ashley Young crossed for Agbonlahor to head home.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Blackpool 1 Wigan Athletic 3]]>
Wigan Athletic hauled themselves out of the relegation zone with a 3-1 victory that leaves Blackpool in the bottom three.

The Latics made a storming start to the game and went ahead on three minutes when Craig Cathcart gifted possession to Charles N’Zogbia and then slipped at the decisive moment to allow Hugo Rodallega to meet the through-ball and fire home.

The visitors then doubled their advantage in added time at the end of the first half as Mohamed Diame robbed Charlie Adam of the ball and fed N’Zogbia to slot past Matt Gilks from a tight angle.

A tame header from Elliot Grandin was all the hosts could muster before Diame’s shot on goal took a wicked deflection off Neal Eardley to wrong-foot Gilks and make it three.

DJ Campbell pulled one back seven minutes from time to give Blackpool a glimmer of hope, but once Ali Al Habsi saved well from Matt Phillips the points were heading back to the DW Stadium, leaving the Seasiders in the dreaded drop zone for the first time this season.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[AC Milan v Sampdoria live preview]]>
AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato has rallied the Rossoneri supporters ahead of tonight’s visit of Sampdoria to the San Siro.

Milan hold a three-point lead over Napoli with just six games remaining in the 2010/11 Serie A campaign, and Brazilian ace Pato has called on the club’s fans to help push them over the finishing line in the coming weeks.

He said: “It's a difficult game and I would like to see a similar atmosphere that we had at the derby.

“I want 80,000 fans supporting us. For us it's important to feel the warmth of our fans. We need their help, they are our 12th man.

“I am convinced that with their support, we will win the league title.”

While AC Milan head into this game on the back of a 2-1 victory at Fiorentina, relegation-threatened Sampdoria will looking for an upset victory that would end an eight-match winless run that goes back to February.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Parma v Inter Milan live preview]]>
Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has given manager Leonardo and his players a vote of confidence ahead of tonight’s trip to Parma.

Inter’s defence of their Champions League crown came to an end with a 7-3 aggregate defeat to FC Schalke earlier this week, and their hopes of retaining the Serie A title are dwindling week-by-week with bitter rivals AC Milan five points ahead of them with just six games remaining.

But instead of being critical, Moratti said in a statement: “I want to thank my team and all of my players who in the last few years and in our current season have brought to all Inter fans, including myself, so much joy and success for which we are all very proud.

“With the certainty that we will rediscover our strength and quality in order to achieve prestigious aims this year, I am convinced, together with the fans, that the coach and the team will bring us even more satisfaction.”

While Inter were beaten in midweek by Schalke, they do head into this game on the back of a 2-0 win over Chievo in their most recent domestic outing. Parma, meanwhile, are just one point above the relegation zone following back-to-back defeats at the hands of Bari and Lazio.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v FC Barcelona live preview]]>
Barcelona are strong favourites to beat Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final at the Mestalla stadium in Valencia

Fans of El Clasico matches have been well and truly spoilt this season, with Barcelona and Real Madrid meeting for the third time this season when they contest the Copa del Rey final.

This match is the pre-cursor to the Champions League semi-final clashes between the Spanish giants and Barcelona are the favourites  to win this cup final, which will be played at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium. 

The teams played out a 1-1 draw on Saturday night, with a late Cristiano Ronaldo penalty salvaging a point for the home side.

Real will be looking to land some silverware and Jose Mourinho’s men are underdogs to claim victory ahead of their Champions League encounter, with Ronaldo always capable of moments of brilliance.

One can’t help but feel that Barca might outclass their opponents on neutral territory.

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Jose Mourinho silent over 'El Clasico' clash]]>
Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has refused to speak to the press ahead of tonight’s huge “El Clasico” showdown with Barcelona at the Bernabeu.

Madrid must beat their fierce rivals to have any hope of winning the La Liga title this season, with this the first of four huge matches between the two teams over the next three weeks.

But at the pre-match press conference the normally outspoken Mourinho sat silent as his assistant Aitor Karanka took questions from the media at the club’s training ground.

Karanka explained: “Every time he speaks, everything he says gets magnified, he does not want his words to be magnified.”

The Madrid number two then went on to dismiss suggestions that the Portuguese’s actions had been disrespectful.

Karanka added: “What the fans want is for Real Madrid to be where it is today, they want a coach who works hard every day, who demonstrates that he is 100% with the club, independent of whether or not he speaks.”

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Roma v Palermo live preview]]>
Roma will continue their pursuit of Serie A’s top four when they entertain Palermo today.

The Giallorossi currently occupy sixth in the Italian top tier, the final qualifying spot for the Europa League, but they are just four points behind fourth-placed Lazio, who hold the final Champions League berth.

Vincenzo Montella’s side will be keen to haul in their fierce city rivals over the final six games of the campaign and know they cannot afford any more slip-ups if they are to achieve that goal, starting with Palermo today.

Palermo are just two places behind their hosts heading into the 33rd round of fixtures this season, but there is a nine-point gap between the two teams making it very difficult for Delio Rossi’s men to clinch a place in next season’s Europa League.

While Roma will be looking to build on their 2-1 victory at Udinese, Palermo will be hoping to end a two-match winless run since their surprise 1-0 win over leaders AC Milan last month.

Click here for Serie A News]]><![CDATA[Werder Bremen v FC Schalke live preview]]>
Werder Bremen boss Thomas Schaaf is not expecting FC Schalke to go easy on his side when they meet this evening.

Schalke completed a stunning 7-3 aggregate win over holders Inter Milan in the Champions League this week, and Schaaf was thoroughly impressed with the performance of Ralf Rangnick’s side during the two-legged quarter-final tie.

However, he does not believe they will be resting on their laurels when they return to Bundesliga duty at the Weserstadion.

He said: “When you are in a semi-final or a final, then you can't just say we are going to have a holiday for eight weeks and put our feet up.

“You have got to keep performing game by game and the better you do, the more prepared you are for the knockout matches.

“I assume that they will be able to play to the best of their ability and that is what I am preparing us for.”

While Werder Bremen will be looking to extend the six-game unbeaten run that has left them six points clear of the relegation zone, FC Schalke will be hoping to record their fourth-straight victory in all competitions.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Hamburg v Hannover 96 live preview]]>
Hannover 96 coach Mirko Slomka believes his side need four wins from their remaining wins to reach the Champions League.

Die Roten currently occupy the third and final qualifying berth for a place among Europe’s elite clubs next season, but they hold only a one-point lead over fourth-placed Bayern Munich.

And having leapfrogged Munich last weekend, Slomka admits they can only afford one more slip-up if they are to finish in the Bundesliga’s top three.

Speaking ahead of today’s trip to Hamburg, he said: “Four wins from five games should be enough.

“But we are going to have to be stable for 90 minutes, not 30 like in Cologne or 60 like in Dortmund, otherwise we can forget about the Champions League.

“It is going to be a very tough game.”

While Hannover 96 head into this game on the back of a 2-0 win over Hannover 96, Hamburg will be looking to build on a 1-1 draw with leaders Borussia Dortmund that took their unbeaten run to three games.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Wolfsburg v St Pauli live preview]]>
Manager Holger Stanislawski is determined to lead St Pauli to Bundesliga survival before he departs this summer.

Stanislawski announced earlier this week that he would be leaving at the end of the campaign after 18 seasons with the Pirates of the League, but he faces a fight against relegation before he moves on to a “fresh challenge”.

The Millerntor-Stadion outfit are languishing in the relegation zone, two points form safety with five games to go, but they can boost their survival chances with a win today at fellow strugglers Wolfsburg.

And Stanislawski said: “I am going to be part of this side until June 30 and I am incredibly proud of the successes we have achieved in recent years.

“I sat in my car for hours on end recently and looked at the South Stand, and I realised that the time had come for me to make way for somebody new.

“The last few years have exhausted me and I don't just want to exist here at St Pauli, I want to give 100% for the club. But I have got to the stage where my power and energy are practically worn out.

“The positive development of this team has got to carry on in the future, but my batteries have become emptier and emptier.

“I know very well how to put that to one side, though, and not only I but the whole team are looking forward to this game.

“Wolfsburg have their backs to the wall and I can see our chances of playing a successful game.”

While St Pauli will be desperately hoping to end a six-match losing run, Wolfsburg will be aiming to boost their survival chances by bouncing back from a 1-0 defeat at FC Schalke.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Kaiserslautern v Nuremberg live preview]]>
Nuremberg coach Dieter Hecking believes his side can still qualify for next season’s Europa League.

Der Club have enjoyed a superb season so far to sit sixth in the Bundesliga, just five points behind Mainz in the second and final qualifying spot for Europe’s secondary competition.

However, they do have a game in hand over Mainz, which is today’s trip to Kaiserslautern, and a victory would see them move within two points of Thomas Tuchel’s side with only five games remaining.

Boss Hecking said: “We just want the maximum success. We have made that very clear since we have a huge chance to make up the two points.

“But the fact is that we have played a fantastic season. If we do finish fifth, then that would be the cherry on top of a marvellous season.

“Maybe we also have the advantage because Mainz could be scared of losing fifth place because they have been there for such a long time.

“But the battle for fifth is not only between Mainz and Nurnberg, there are also Hamburg, Freiburg and maybe even Schalke.

“It is going to be exciting, right down to the very last day of the season.”

While Nuremberg are looking to build on their 1-1 draw with Bayern Munich, Kaiserslautern head into this game on the back of a 4-2 victory at Stuttgart.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Cologne v Stuttgart live preview]]>
Stuttgart coach Bruno Labbadia wants his relegation-threatened side to right the wrongs of last weekend when they visit Cologne today.

Die Roten are just two points clear of the Bundesliga’s relegation zone after last weekend’s 4-2 defeat to Kaiserslautern ended their five-match unbeaten run, and Labaddia has called for an immediate response with just five games remaining in the 2010/11 campaign.

Labaddia said: “We have analysed the defeat to Kaiserslautern and trained during the week with a lot of concentration and intensively, and shown a good reaction.

“We travel to Cologne wanting to put into practice what we have worked on.

“With a win over Cologne we could also pull them into the relegation battle.”

Cologne will be hoping to bounce back from their own heavy loss last time out, a 5-1 hammering at the hands of bottom side Borussia Monchengladbach.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[Lille v Bordeaux live preview]]>
Ligue 1 leaders Lille host Bordeaux today with Marseille hot on their heels in the race for the French title.

Rudi Garcia’s side are just three points cleared of second-placed OM heading into the 31st round of fixtures and know that any more slip-ups over the final eight games could ultimately cost the championship.

The come up against a Bordeaux side today that, despite being eighth in the table, are still just six points clear of the relegation zone in a staggeringly congested table.

And while Lille head into this game on the back of a shock 1-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Monaco, Bordeaux are looking to return to end a run of four games without a victory with their most recent outing ending in a goalless draw with rock-bottom Arles.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Stade Rennais v Lorient live preview]]>
Stade Rennais will be looking to remain hot on the tail of the top three when they hosts Lorient in Ligue 1 today.

Rennais are currently fourth in the French top flight, occupying the only qualifying berth for the Europa League, but they are just two points behind third-placed Lyon who currently hold the third and final qualifying spot for next season’s Champions League.

Frederic Antonetti’s side are also just four points behind second-placed Marseille and seven behind league leaders Lille with eight games to play, meaning the title remains a possibility should the three teams above them slip up in the coming weeks.

Ninth-placed Lorient, meanwhile, will be nervously looking over their shoulders at the relegation zone despite being in the top half of the table, with the drop zone just six points below them in a heavily congested Ligue 1 table.

Stade Rennais will be looking to rediscover their form after going four games without a victory, losing 2-0 to Stade Brest last time out, while Lorient will be aiming to end their seven-game winless run in all competitions since hammering Bordeaux 4-1 in February.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Nice v Monaco live preview]]>
Relegation-threatened Nice and Monaco go head-to-head in a real six-pointer in Ligue 1 today.

Sixteenth-placed Monaco head to Stade Municipal du Ray on the back two successive victories, but one wrong result could plunge them back into the relegation zone which is currently just one point below them.

Hosts Nice are currently 14th in the French top flight, just two points from safety, and they will be looking to put some more breathing room between themselves and the drop zone while plunging Monaco into further trouble.

Nice head into this game on a seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions, but their last three outings have all ended in draws. Meanwhile, Monaco’s confidence will be soaring following their shock 1-0 victory over league leaders Lille last week.  

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Manchester City v Manchester United – FA Cup preview]]>
Manchester City and Manchester United are without their star men for Saturday evening’s FA Cup semi-final clash. (kick-off 17.15 BST)

City’s bid to land a first major trophy in 35 years took a major hit on Monday night when influential captain Carlos Tevez was forced off during the Premier League defeat to Liverpool, and the Argentinian’s hamstring injury means he will not face his former employers at Wembley Stadium.

Manager Roberto Mancini will now decide between Edin Dzeko and Mario Balotelli up front, but the latter may find himself missing out after a poor display that saw him taken off after replacing Tevez in the 3-0 defeat.

Micah Richards could figure in City’s starting XI after making a swift return from a hamstring injury that had initially threatened to ruled him out of this match, while Nigel de Jong and David Silva are likely to be handed immediate recalls after being dropped at Liverpool.

Meanwhile, leading goalscorer Dimitar Berbatov may come into Manchester United’s starting XI with Wayne Rooney ruled out through suspension.

A ban also rules out Jonny Evans, while a virus continues to sideline midfielder Darren Fletcher, but Rafael da Silva has overcome his knee problem.

There could also be places in the Red Devils’ squad Wes Brown, Anderson and Michael Owen now that all three are back to full fitness.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[West Brom v Chelsea preview]]>
Chelsea are without Brazilian pair Alex and Ramires for Saturday’s trip to West Brom. (kick-off 15.00 BST)

Defender Alex, who recently returned from a knee problem, and midfielder Ramires have suffered minor muscle injuries that have ruled them out of this game but the Blues are not expecting them to return in time for the next game.

David Luiz is expected to be handed an immediate recall to the starting XI after being cup-tied for the midweek Champions League defeat to Manchester United, and he will partner John Terry at the heart of Chelsea’s defence.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti must decide whether or not to stick with Fernando Torres up front after the Spaniard again mis-fired on Wednesday night, with Didier Drogba hopeful of a starting role.

West Brom, meanwhile, could welcome back Somen Tchoyi after he missed the last two games to be with his sick wife.

However, definitely absent for the Baggies is midfielder Graham Dorrans because of an ankle injury, but the Scotland international could return before the end of the season.

Last Premier League games:

WEST BROM 3 Sunderland 2: Carson, Reid, Olsson, Meite, Shorey, Thomas, Scharner, Mulumbu, Brunt (Morrison 78), Odemwingie (Tamas 90), Cox (Fortune 85). Not used: Myhill, Cech, Vela, Jara.

CHELSEA 1 Wigan Athletic 0: Cech; Ferreira (Alex 75), Ivanovic, Luiz, Cole, Ramires, Mikel (Benayoun 46), Lampard, Anelka (Torres 59), Drogba, Malouda. Not used: Turnbull, Essien, Zhirkov, Kalou.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[West Ham v Aston Villa preview]]>
West Ham could be without star man Scott Parker for Saturday’s showdown with fellow strugglers Aston Villa. (kick-off 15.00 BST).

Parker has been troubled by an Achilles injury that forced him off during last week’s loss at Bolton Wanderers, and the England man is a major doubt for this one.

This could lead to an immediate recall for Kieron Dyer following his return from a loan spell with former club Ipswich Town.

The game comes too soon for Jack Collison following a knee problem, meaning he sits this game out along with Junior Stanislas (hernia), and manager Avram Grant is banned from the dugout for the final time.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier has the good fortune of having a full squad to choose from.

Ashley Young is expected to make his 250th career appearance in the Football League, while Gabriel Agbonlahor is likely to make his 200th start for Villa.

Last Premier League games:

Bolton Wanderers 3 WEST HAM 0: Green; Tomkins, da Costa, Upson (Jacobsen 46), Bridge, Noble, Parker (Spector 76), Hitzlsperger, Piquionne (Cole 46), Keane, Ba. Not used: Boffin, Gabbidon, O'Neil, Obinna.

ASTON VILLA 1 Newcastle United 0: Friedel; Walker (Cuellar 78), Dunne, Collins, L Young, Downing, Petrov, Makoun (Reo-Coker 67), A Young, Agbonlahor (Pires 86), Bent. Not used: Marshall, Albrighton, Heskey, Clark.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Everton v Blackburn Rovers preview]]>
Everton are again without Mikel Arteta as Blackburn Rovers visit Goodison Park on Saturday. (kick-off 15.00 BST)

Arteta has been sidelined in recent weeks by hamstring injury as manager David Moyes has been hit with a midfield injury crisis that also left him without Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill.

And while Fellaini remains on the sidelines with an ankle injury this weekend, Moyes will be hoping Cahill will return from a foot injury to give his side a major lift.

The Toffees boss is also waiting on the fitness of Seamus Coleman and Jack Rodwell (both ankle), but definitely missing for the hosts is forward Louis Saha (ankle).

Blackburn Rovers, meanwhile, are reeling from the news Ryan Nelsen will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Nelsen joins Keith Andrews (groin) and Vince Grella (Achilles) on the sidelines, while Rovers boss Steve Kean is also without midfielder Steven Nzonzi through suspension.

However they do welcome back Gael Givet from suspension and Roque Santa Cruz has recovered from a hamstring injury, while David Hoilett may overcome a similar problem in time to feature for Blackburn.

Last Premier League games:

Wolves 0 EVERTON 3: Howard, Hibbert, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Gueye (Anichebe 64), Neville, Heitinga, Bilyaletdinov (Forshaw 82), Osman, Beckford (Vellios 73). Not used: Mucha, Mustafi, McAleny, Nsiala.

BLACKBURN ROVERS 1 Birmingham City 1: Robinson, Salgado, Samba, Nelsen (Roberts 35), Olsson, J Jones, P Jones, Pedersen, Dunn, Hoilett (Emerton 69), Santa Cruz (Benjani 63). Not used: Bunn, Rochina, Hanley, Diouf.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Blackpool v Wigan Athletic preview]]>
Blackpool will be without key midfielder David Vaughan for Saturday’s clash with fellow strugglers Wigan Athletic. (kick-off 15.00 BST)

Vaughan is sidelined with a hip injury and the Seasiders are fearing he could spend the rest of the season on the sidelines, which would be a major blow to their fight against relegation with David Carney (shoulder) and Chris Basham (broken leg) already missing.

Richard Kingson is set to remain in goal despite the return to training of Matt Gilks following a broken kneecap, with Paul Rachubka remaining on the bench.

Meanwhile, Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez has the luxury of being to select from an almost full squad with Callum McManaman back from a head injury.

While the Latics do have no injury concerns to deal with, they will be missing Honduras international Maynor Figueroa through suspension after he picked up his 10th booking of the season in the defeat at Chelsea.

Last Premier League games:

BLACKPOOL 1 Arsenal 3: Kingson, Baptiste, Evatt, Cathcart, Crainey, Adam, Southern (Phillips 82), Taylor-Fletcher, Puncheon (Kornilenko 87), Campbell, Varney (Reid 60). Not used: Rachubka, Eardley, Ormerod, Beattie.

Chelsea 1 WIGAN ATHLETIC 0: Al Habsi, Boyce, G Caldwell, Alcaraz, Figueroa, Watson, Diame (Moses 85), N'Zogbia (Di Santo 62), McCarthy, Cleverley, Rodallega (Sammon 62). Not used: Pollitt, Gohouri, Gomez, Stam.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Birmingham City v Sunderland preview]]>
Birmingham City defender Roger Johnson is expected to be fit to face Sunderland on Saturday. (kick-off 15.00 BST)

Johnson suffered a concussion during last weekend’s draw at Blackburn Rovers but looks set to remain in the starting XI for this crucial game for relegation-threatened Blues.

The hosts have doubts over David Bentley and Nikola Zigic after both sat out last weekend’s game with groin injuries, while a hamstring injury could rule out Jean Beausejour.

But definitely absent are Martin Jiranek (toe) and Obafemi Martins (groin), who join Scott Dann (hamstring) and James McFadden (knee) on the sidelines.

Sunderland, meanwhile, are awaiting on the fitness of Sulley Muntari (calf) and Kieran Richardson (ankle).

However, they are definitely without defensive trio Titus Bramble (knee), Anton Ferdinand (hamstring) and John Mensah (groin), while a knee problem continues to sideline Craig Gordon.

And the Black Cats have also learned that not only will forward Fraizer Campbell miss the remainder of this season, he could also miss a large part of the 2011/12 campaign after suffering a setback in his recovery from a cruciate knee ligament injury.

Last Premier League games:

Blackburn Rovers 1 BIRMINGHAM CITY 1: Foster, Carr, Johnson (Davies 46), Parnaby, Ridgewell, Larsson, Gardner, Ferguson, Bowyer, Jerome, Phillips. Not used: Doyle, Murphy, Derbyshire, Fahey, Hleb, Mutch.

SUNDERLAND 2 West Brom 3: Mignolet, Onuoha, Mensah (Ferdinand 12, Sessegnon 78), Turner, Bardsley, Elmohamady, Malbranque, Cattermole, Richardson (Zenden 46), Welbeck, Gyan. Not used: Gordon, Henderson, Muntari, Colback.

Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Manchester City v Manchester United classics]]>
Manchester rivals City and United go head-to-head in a big FA Cup semi-final encounter this Saturday.

While City will be aiming to end a 35-year wait to lift a major trophy, United will be looking to take a step closer to a domestic double

Both sides will have to do it without their star men as both Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez sit this one out, but there should be no shortage of drama at Wembley Stadium.

So on the eve of this huge collision, Football News are taking a look back at some memorable matches between these two fierce foes.


United 4 City 2
FA Cup fifth round
February 14, 2004

United went in front when hesitant defending by Claudio Reyna allowed Paul Scholes to score, but the hosts then suffered a setback when Gary Neville was sent off for head-butting City winger Steve McManaman.

The visitors wasted a host of chances to pull level and were punished when Ruud van Nistelrooy met a Cristiano Ronaldo cross to double United’s advantage, and the Portuguese, himself, made it three by reacting quickest after Arni Arason saved well from Ryan Giggs.

Michael Tarnat gave City a glimmer of hope, but van Nistelrooy bundled in the fourth before Robbie Fowler grabbed a late consolation goal for the blue half of Manchester.




City 3 United 1
Premier League
November 9, 2002

City went ahead inside five minutes when Nicolas Anelka stole possession from Rio Ferdinand and, after Shaun Goater’s initial effort was blocked by Fabian Barthez, the Frenchman stroked the ball home.

United levelled when Ole Gunnar Solksjaer slid in to fire a Ryan Giggs cross past former Red Devil Peter Schmeichel, but Gary Neville then handed the lead back to the hosts when he made a mess of an attempted backpass to Barthez, allowing Goater to slot the ball past the United goalkeeper.

And it was Goater who ensured City would win the least every derby game at Maine Road, producing a cool finish for his 100th goal for the club.




City 4 United 1
Premier League
March 14, 2004

Robbie Fowler fired City in front after just three minutes as they looked to celebrate the first derby at the City of Manchester Stadium with a victory.

Jon Macken’s first-time volley then doubled their advantage, but United fought back and Paul Scholes gave them hope with a fine 20-yard strike.

However, a Mikael Sylvestre error gifted Trevor Sinclair the chance to restore City’s two-goal cushion and he duly obliged.
And Shaun Wright-Phillips’ fine strike then capped off a miserable week for United that had seen them crash out of Europe.


Click here for Premier League News]]><![CDATA[Mainz v Borussia Monchengladbach live preview]]>
Mainz will look to strengthen their Europa League push when they host rock-bottom Borussia Monchengladbach this evening.

Mainz are currently fifth in the Bundesliga, the final qualifying berth, and hold a slender two-point advantage over sixth-placed Nuremberg with just five games remaining this season.

Therefore three points are a must as Mainz look to hold off the chasing pack, and they now face a Borussia Monchengladbach side that need a victory or they will slide one step closer to relegation.

Monchengladbach are four points from safety and just two points from the lottery of the relegation play-off spot, which is currently occupied by Wolfsburg.

While Mainz head into this game on the back of a 2-0 defeat at Hannover 96, Borussia Monchengladbach will be looking to build on a huge 5-1 victory at Cologne last time out.

Watch Mainz v Borussia Monchengladbach live at 365, kicking off at 19.30 BST.

Click here for Bundesliga News]]><![CDATA[SC Heerenveen v FC Utrecht live preview]]>
FC Utrecht are looking to do the double over SC Heerenveen and strengthen their play-off push when they visit Abe Lenstra Stadion this evening.

Dries Mertens and Jan Wuytens were on target as eighth-placed Utrecht ran out 2-1 winners in their first meeting of the campaign last December, and they really need to record another victory in this one with Heracles just one point behind them in the play-off race.

Heerenveen did gain a measure of revenge by winning a winter friendly encounter between the two teams, and they will be looking to take advantage of the visitors’ poor form to record a 10th victory of their campaign.

While Utrecht have lost their last three games, beaten 4-0 by Feyenoord last time out, Heerenveen will be hoping to build on the fine 2-2 draw with Heerenveen.

Watch SC Heerenveen v FC Utrecht live at 365, kicking off at 19.45 BST.

Click here for Live Previews]]><![CDATA[Roberto Mancini: Man City squad are behind me]]>
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini believes he has the backing of his squad ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final clash with Manchester United.

City have been plagued by reports of off-pitch bust-ups throughout the season, and speculation about a lack of team spirit grew on Monday when both James Milner and Mario Balotelli showed their anger at being substituted during the defeat at Liverpool.

But Mancini insists there will be a united front when City, looking to win their first major trophy in 35 years, face the near neighbours at Wembley Stadium this weekend.

The Italian said: “I think the players are behind me. It would be stupid otherwise because, like me, the players have a good chance. It's important for these players because it could be their first trophy.

“Throughout my career I always played to win. For them it's the same. Don't change. It's not important who plays on Saturday. The team is important and all the players are behind me.

“I think every player knows we have arrived at an important moment for the club. We're playing an important game and we can be in the final if we play well, so every player will give 100%.

“We should be happy at this moment. It is a good moment. We have improved a lot as a team over the last year.

“We started the season wanting to win a trophy and qualify for the Champions League and those two objectives are still in front of us. For some of the players it could be their first trophy.

“If we get to the final and win the cup, as well as qualify for the Champions League, the mentality here will change. It would mean next season we would challenge 100% for the Premier League title.”

Click here for Manchester City FC]]><![CDATA[Roy Hodgson: Fernando Torres will come good for Chelsea]]>
West Brom manager Roy Hodgson has backed Fernando Torres to overcome his current slump.

World Cup winner Torres is yet to find the net in 11 appearances for Chelsea since making a £50m switch from Liverpool in January.

But Hodgson, who worked with Torres at Anfield, expects the Spain international will soon find his feet and rediscover the form that made him one of world football’s most lethal forwards.

The 63-year-old, whose Albion side comes up against Torres and Chelsea on Saturday, said: “(His current form) doesn't surprise me because he didn't have a good time at Liverpool from the start of the season.

“He has moved to Chelsea and everybody was hoping it was going to be night and day in terms of how he performed and it's not.

“Fernando is working hard, like he did for Liverpool, and it's not working for him. But it will, because he is a very good player and he is a good person as well.”

Hodgson continued: “Chelsea will get a lot of value from Fernando Torres and I think, even between now and the end of the season, you will see him scoring goals and doing a great job for the team.

“But I would rather he had scored a few goals before Saturday because it's sod's law that his first goal will come against me.

“But I won't begrudge him that as long as we've got more. He can have his goal as long as we've got two.”

Click here for Chelsea FC News]]><![CDATA[Paul Scholes hints at retirement this summer]]>
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has revealed he could retire at the end of the season.

The 36-year-old has become a key figure at Old Trafford since making his debut for the first-team in 1994, and he has been offered a one-year contract extension by manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

But Scholes said: “I'll decide at the end of the season (if he will carry on playing or retire).

“I really don't know what I am going to do yet. I've got these games to think about now and I will decide from there.

“People always say you should play as long as you can but there comes a time when you just can't physically do it.

“I'm wary of that. I just want to make sure it is done at the right time.”

Next up for Scholes and United is an FA Cup semi-final showdown with Manchester City on Saturday, and the former England man has fanned the flames ahead of the Wembley Stadium encounter by claiming he does not consider City as major rivals.

He said: “When they are fourth or fifth, I don't think they can be classed as a main rival.

“Our main rivals are obviously Arsenal and Chelsea. I think City are just a rival because of where they are (geographically). Liverpool is the same.”

Scholes continued: “With them getting the money, it has probably helped us and spurred us on a bit more when we have played them.

“There has been nothing to choose between us in the last five or six games. They will obviously be p***** off that they have only managed to beat us once (under the ownership of Sheikh Mansour) and that game was a Carling Cup semi-final first leg, with us having another game to make up for it.

“We have nicked the games with goals in the last minutes. I've done it, Michael Owen's done it and Wayne Rooney did it last season. That's maybe the difference between the two teams.

“We have a belief that we can beat anybody, but if City have that, I'm not too sure. But their spending is not our problem is it?”

Click here for Manchester United FC News]]><![CDATA[Leyton Orient challenge Olympic Stadium decision]]>
League One side Leyton Orient have requested a judicial review into the decision to award West Ham United the Olympic Stadium.

Orient have joined Tottenham in heading to the courts over the decision, with both parties unhappy at the £40m loan that Newham Borough Council gave to the company responsible for running the stadium, which West Ham will then rent.

Os owner and chairman Barry Hearn told Sky Sports News: “The whole plan is that we do not want West Ham in the Olympic Stadium, it is black and white, we think they are on our patch.

“We think various parties have acted unlawfully and illegally and they need to be called to task. We have started today with the official announcement we have submitted for judicial review an application request against Newham Borough Council.

“The £40m has been illegal and unlawful, it is not what a council should be doing, they do not have the powers and have acted beyond their powers to give this £40m loan.

“It represents a state subsidy, a subsidy of a Premier League football club which is against European and British competition laws, we are very solid in our case and we will pursue this to the bitter end.

“We follow this with judicial applications against the Government, the Minister of Sport, the Mayor of London, and we take action against the Premier League for breaching their own rules as well.”

Hearn has claimed in the past that the Hammers’ proposed move near to Orient’s Brisbane Road home could put his club in jeopardy.

And he added: “This is an all-encompassing charge by Leyton Orient, a battle by the little man against the big forces of evil if you like.

“This represents a challenge to our future and we have no choice but to fight our corner, and we believe we have right on our side.”

Click here for West Ham United FC News]]><![CDATA[Cristiano Ronaldo: Only our best will beat Barcelona]]>
Cristiano Ronaldo admits Real Madrid will have to be at their best if they are to beat Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals.

Ronaldo netted the only goal of the game on Wednesday night as Real Madrid beat Tottenham 1-0 to wrap up a 5-0 aggregate victory, setting up a showdown with Barca in the final four.

And the Portuguese knows his side face a major test as they look to secure a place in the final at Wembley Stadium next month.

He told Real Madrid’s official website: “We are happy for qualifying for the next round.

“Tottenham Hotspur are a great team, but we did a great job in both games. We've taken an important step because we're now closer to the final.

“We will face the strongest opponent of all in the semi-finals, and we must be ready. Barcelona are one of the best teams in the world, but so are we.

“We have to believe it is possible for us to beat them. We are having a good run and feel confident.

“The team that makes the least mistakes will reach the final. I hope it's Real Madrid.”

The Champions League double-header will end a run of four matches between the two teams in the space of three weeks, with this Saturday’s La Liga showdown kicking off the four-game extravaganza that also includes a Copa del Rey final meeting.

Visit Football News' special El Clasico section by clicking here, and you can watch Saturday's La Liga meeting between the two teams at 365, kicking off at 21.00 GMT.

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Blackburn Rovers lose Ryan Nelsen to knee injury]]>
Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Nelsen will miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery.

New Zealand international Nelsen has been troubled by the injury throughout the season and manager Steve Kean has now confirmed the 33-year-old will miss the final six games of the campaign as Rovers fight for Premier League survival.

Kean told the Ewood Park club's official website: “Ryan had an operation on his knee and he is out for the rest of the season, unfortunately.

“If the surgeon had gone in and looked at his knee in January he'd have probably done the same operation.

“So with good medical back-up we've managed to get him on the pitch more times than we thought we would have got.

“The prognosis is that he'll be back some time in August, he just has to rest up for a month and do the rehab from there.

“Fortunately for us we lose Ryan at a time when Phil Jones is back fully fit. He's slotted back in there and looked like he'd never been away from central defence so that is fantastic for us, but it is unfortunate that we lose Nelly.”

Click here for Blackburn Rovers FC News]]><![CDATA[Wayne Rooney: Why I swore at West Ham]]>
When Manchester United meet near neighbours Manchester City in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final, all Wayne Rooney can do is sit and watch from the stands at Wembley Stadium.

The 25-year-old forward is serving the final game of a controversial two-match ban after swearing into a television camera following his third goal against West Ham United.

And now, Rooney has told paddypower.com exactly what was going through his mind during the moment that led to him missing this huge showdown...


Click here for Manchester United FC News]]><![CDATA[Heurelho Gomes not dwelling on Champions League howler]]>
Heurelho Gomes will look to put his Champions League blunder behind him as Tottenham bid for an immediate return to the competition.

Gomes fumbled a Cristiano Ronaldo shot into his goal as Spurs exited Europe’s grandest stage with a 1-0 defeat to Real Madrid on Wednesday night, with his goal all but ending the White Hart Lane outfit’s attempts to overturn a four-goal deficit from the first leg.

And while the Brazilian admits he was at fault for the goal, he insists he must look forward as Tottenham bid for a top-four finish in the Premier League that would lead to a place in the qualifying rounds of next season’s Champions League.

Gomes said: “The ball moved a little bit but it was a mistake and I accept it.

“This was not my first mistake and I know it will not be the last one in my career, but I need to show character like I did before.

“I know I was so important for the club and I need to move on because they need me. We have a lot of big games coming up and I need to recover quick.

“It was a difficult moment for me but I have to look forward because I know how important that is for the team.”

He added: “The dream is over but we will still keep going to make sure we get a place in next year's competition.

“There are a lot of big games coming up and we need to look forward to those games. This season is not over yet.”

Click here for Tottenham Hotspur FC News]]><![CDATA[Europa League quarter-final wrap-up – FC Porto romp through]]>
FC PORTO cruised into the Europa League semi-finals with a 5-2 second-leg rout of SPARTAK MOSCOW.

The Portuguese side arrived in Moscow with a comfortable 5-1 lead from the first leg, and once Helton saved well from Aiden McGeady the visitors’ place in the final four never looked in doubt.

Hulk raced away from the Spartak defence to open the scoring just before the half-hour mark, and Cristian Rodriguez headed in the second just before half-time.

Freddy Guarin extended their advantage two minutes after the restart before Artem Dzjuba quickly pulled one back for the hosts by beating two men and slotting, but Falcao restored Porto’s three-goal advantage minutes later.

Spartak again pulled one back when Ari rounded Helton and slotted home, but Ruben Micael wrapped up a 5-3 aggregate win for the visitors by reacting quickest after Hulk clattered the crossbar.

Porto will now face VILLARREAL in the semi-finals after they Spanish side wrapped up a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory over FC TWENTE with a 3-1 second-leg win in Holland.

Twente needed to overturn a 5-1 deficit from the first leg and gave themselves a glimmer of hope when Emir Bajrami gave them the lead on the night shortly after the half-hour mark, but that would diminish on the hour when Dwight Tiendalli saw red for a foul on Mubarak Wakaso and Giuseppe Rossi netted the subsequent penalty kick.

A second penalty then handed Villarreal the lead on the night, Marco Ruben slotting home after Bart Buysse brought down Mario Perez, and Cani then wrapped up the tie with a third in added time.

Meanwhile, BENFICA fought back from two goals down to draw at PSV EINDHOVEN, with the 2-2 result ensuring their progress, 6-3 on aggregate.

Benfica entered the game with a commanding 4-1 lead from the first leg but a comeback looked more than possible when Balazs Dzsudzsak and Jeremain Lens pulled PSV within one goal inside the opening 25 minutes.

However, Luisao calmed the visitors’ nerves deep into added time at the end of the first half, and Oscar Cardozo’s penalty just after the hour ensured the Portuguese side would progress.

Benfica will meet fellow countrymen SPORTING BRAGA in the final four after they edged past DYNAMO KIEV on away goals.

Braga held a slight advantage after claiming a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Ukraine last week, but they were dealt a setback in this one when Paulo Cesar was shown the red card just before the half-hour mark.

But Kiev could not capitalise on their numerical advantage and were reduced to 10 men themselves when Goran Popov was dismissed two minutes from time.

Click here for Europa League News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona classics - Five-star Barcelona maul Madrid]]>
Real Madrid entertain bitter rivals Barcelona in a ‘must-win’ La Liga encounter on Saturday night.

Madrid are currently eight points behind the league leaders with just seven games remaining, and they need to get the better of Pep Guardiola's side to have any hope of winning the Spanish title.

So to kick off our build-up to the Bernabeu collision, which you can watch live at 365, Football News takes a look back at the first meeting between the two teams this season.

And it was not pretty viewing for Madrid supporters...

Barcelona 5 Real Madrid 0
November 29, 2010

Barcelona surged to the top of the Primera Liga table with a sensational 5-0 rout of fierce rivals Real Madrid.

The Catalan giants gave a sign of what was to come when Lionel Messi’s sublime chip from a tight angle struck the upright, but the opener soon came when Xavi produced a calm finish to beat Iker Casillas.

Barca then doubled their advantage when David Villa beat fellow Spain international Sergio Ramos and crossed for Pedro to slot the ball home.

Villa was denied by a smart save from Casillas after the break, but the hosts then delighted the Camp Nou crowd with two goals in three minutes to effectively end the match as a contest.

First, Villa raced onto a pinpoint Messi pass to slot home Barca’s third, and the summer signing from Valencia then made it four by nutmegging Casillas.

Sergio Busquets almost added to the embarrassment with a shot from the halfway that just dipped too late, but a fifth did come when Jeffren converted a Bojan cross.

And Madrid’s miserable night was completed in added time when Ramos saw red.


Visit Football News' special El Clasico section by clicking here!

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Carlton Cole accepts FA charge of improper conduct]]>
West Ham forward Carlton Cole has admitted a Football Association charge of improper conduct.

The 27-year-old forward has been charged over comments he made on Twitter prior to the England national team’s friendly against Ghana at Wembley Stadium last month.

Cole had tweeted: “Immigration has surrounded the Wembley premises! I knew it was a trap! Hahahaha.

“The only way to get out safely is to wear an England jersey and paint your face w/ (with) the St. George's flag!”

Despite withdrawing his remarks the Hammers striker has still been charged, and he will now have a personal hearing in front of a disciplinary panel in the next few days.

A statement released by the FA read: “West Ham United's Carlton Cole has admitted to a charge of improper conduct in relation to media comments.

“The charge relates to comments made by Cole on Twitter during the England v Ghana fixture on Tuesday, March 29, 2011.

“Cole has requested a personal hearing which will take place before April 21, 2011.”

Click here for West Ham United FC News]]><![CDATA[Real Madrid v Barcelona - An awesome foursome ahead!]]>
Real Madrid’s Champions League victory over Tottenham has ensured football fans will be treated to a feast of FOUR “El Clasico” derbies with Barcelona over the next three weeks.

These two giants of Spanish football always serve up a treat when they go head-to-head, but the stakes have never been higher than they are now.

The start of their four-game tussle begins on Saturday when they meet at the Bernabeu in a La Liga showdown that could all but determine who ends up Spanish champions this season. Barca are currently eight points clear with seven games remaining, meaning Madrid must win this one to have any hope of regaining the title.

Then, on April 20, the two teams will renew hostilities in the Copa del Rey final and by that point Barca could have their eyes firmly on a domestic double, something Madrid supporters will be desperate not to see.

And then it’s time to determine who will meet either Manchester United or FC Schalke in the Champions League final at Wembley Stadium on May 28. The first leg will take place on either April 26 or 27, with the return leg coming just one week later on either May 3 or 4.

With this mouth-watering run of fixtures on the horizon, Football News are launching our special “El Clasico” section, which will contain all the latest news and features on Real Madrid v Barcelona.

So click here and join us in the build-up to four matches you do not want to miss!

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Carlos Tevez out of FA Cup semi-final]]>
Manchester City captain Carlos Tevez will miss this Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final showdown with Manchester United.

Tevez’s participation at Wembley Stadium had been in major doubt since he was forced off with a hamstring injury in the early stages of the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool on Monday night.

And City boss Roberto Mancini has now confirmed the Argentina international will spend up to a month on the sidelines with the injury.

Mancini said: “Tevez is not available for Saturday.

“I think he will recover in three or four weeks. It is a big problem but we can't take any risks.

“After this game we have another six games and we hope to have Carlos maybe for the last two or three games, or the final if we make it.”

The absence of Tevez is a huge blow for City as they look to end a 35-year wait to lift a major trophy, but there was some good news for Mancini this week with Micah Richards returning to training following an hamstring injury that had initially threatened to rule him out of the semi-final.

Mancini continued: “Micah Richards is available. He trained two days ago and again (on Wednesday). He will be OK.

“Every player knows that it's an important moment for the club. Every player that plays against United on Saturday will give 100%.

“I've not decided the starting XI. We've got time to decide this. I trust all my players.

“We should be happy in this moment. It's the first time in a long time that we're in the semi-final.”

Click here for Manchester City FC]]><![CDATA[Jose Mourinho rules out 'impossible' Man City switch]]>
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has rubbished speculation linking him with a move to Manchester City this summer.

The Portuguese has often spoken of his desire to return to England in the future, and City emerged as a possible suitor with pressure mounting on current manager Roberto Mancini.

But the former Chelsea and Inter Milan boss, who is the favourite to replace Sir Alex Ferguson when he finally steps down at Manchester United, insists there is no chance of him becoming boss of the Eastlands club in the future.

Mourinho told Sky Italia: “Me to Manchester City? That’s impossible.”

And the 48-year-old has reaffirmed his commitment to current employers Real Madrid despite rumours he could be heading for the Bernabeu exit door at the end of the season.

Mourinho said: “My future is Real Madrid because I have a contract and it looks like the club is happy with my work.

“My future will be England, for sure, but that future is after Real Madrid.

“At the moment I have a contract for three more seasons and I hope I do well enough to deserve to continue here.”

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Alisher Usmanov will not sell Arsenal stake]]>
Alisher Usmanov has insisted he will not sell his stake in Arsenal to American businessman Stan Kroenke.

Kroenke purchased the shares of Danny Fiszman and Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith earlier this week to increase his share in the Gunners to 62.89%, triggering a mandatory buyout.

However, Kroenke Sports Enterprises have come up against a road block in the form of Russian billionaire Usmanov and the Arsenal Supporters Trust, who have refused to part with their shares in the football club which is currently valued at £731m.

Usmanov currently controls 27% of the club’s holding company, with his shares valued at £194m, and insists he is love for the club means he will not sell to KSE.

He said: “I’m not going to sell my stake. I love Arsenal, that’s why I’m a shareholder.”

And a spokesperson for AST, who are against allowing one man control of the club, welcomed Usmanov’s comments, saying: “AST welcomes Red and White Holdings' commitment to Arsenal and calls on all shareholders to work together.

“Their priorities should firstly be making Arsenal a successful football team, secondly placing no leveraged debt on the club or taking dividends and management fees out of the club, and thirdly helping supporters be directly involved in the club's shareholding.”

Meanwhile, the Gunners are mourning the death of director Danny Fiszman following a long battle with cancer.

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood told the club’s official website: “Danny Fiszman was a visionary Director, a gentleman and a true Arsenal fan.

“We are all deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Danny. His voice, wisdom and presence around the football club he so dearly loved will be sorely missed.

“Arsenal Football Club will forever be indebted to Danny for his invaluable foresight and contribution during the move from Highbury to our new stadium.

“Our thoughts at this time are with Danny's wife Sally, family and friends. We have lost a much loved husband, father, grandfather and friend.”

Click here for Arsenal FC News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham seek Olympic Stadium review]]>
Tottenham have applied for a judicial review into the decision to award the Olympic Stadium to Premier League rivals West Ham.

Spurs were beaten in the race to take over the facility following the 2012 London Games, and remain unhappy about Newham Council providing a loan to the Hammers to aid the “conversion” of the ground.

As a result, the White Hart Lane outfit have now asked the High Court to look into the process that was undertaken to determine who would move into the stadium.

A statement on the club’s official website read: “The club has on Wednesday sought permission from the High Court to bring a claim against the London Borough of Newham ("Newham") for judicial review of Newham's process in providing a loan for the conversion of the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games.

“The club wrote to Newham asking it to explain its reasons and justification for its decision, but Newham has declined to respond to this request for information.

“Due to the time limits which apply to claims for judicial review, the club has had no alternative but to issue these proceedings in order to protect its position.

“The club continues to hold discussions with both local and national government bodies in order to seek to agree a feasible stadium solution.”

Click here for Tottenham Hotspur FC News]]><![CDATA[Harry Redknapp: Heurelho Gomes not to blame for exit]]>
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is refusing to blame goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes for their Champions League exit.

Gomes fumbled a tame shot from Cristiano Ronaldo into his own net as Spurs were beaten 1-0 by Real Madrid on Wednesday night, with the Spanish giants claiming a 5-0 aggregate victory to set up a semi-final showdown with Barcelona.

But Redknapp refused to the lay the blame at Gomes’ feet, instead praising the Brazilian for his form since the 64-year-old took over at White Hart Lane.

Redknapp said: “It was a mistake and it was a disappointing goal to concede but I'm not about to start blaming the keeper as he has been great for me ever since I took over as manager.

“Gomes made a rare mistake but that is how it goes.

“He has made fantastic saves for us that he has had no right to make at times this season. I have no complaints.”

However, Redknapp was less than impressed with the extra officials implemented by UEFA after his side had two first-half penalty shouts turned down.

He added: “It was definitely a foul on (Luka) Modric but sometimes you get them, sometimes you don't.

“Sometimes I am left wondering what the official behind the goal is supposed to be doing.”

Click here for Tottenham Hotspur FC News]]><![CDATA[Real Salt Lake v Colorado Rapids live preview]]>
Real Salt Lake will be bidding to maintain their perfect start to the 2011 Major League Soccer season against Colorado Rapids tonight.

RSL top the Western Conference having taken a maximum nine points from their first three games – beating San Jose Earthquakes, Los Angeles Galaxy and New England Revolution – and captain Kyle Beckerman is keen to see the team extend that run for as long as possible.

He told mlssoccer.com: “We’re now really concentrating on getting as many wins in the first half of the season, and get out to a big lead.

“I think I’ve seen other teams do it in the past. I look around the league, and think that when we play our best we can beat anybody, and should beat anybody.”

They now face a second-placed Rapids team that also collected nine points from their opening three games, but the MLS Cup holders suffered a setback when they slipped to their first defeat of the season at FC Dallas last Friday.

And coach Gary Smith told mlssoccer.com: “We were beaten fair and square in that game and we all know we need to get back on track.

“There is no better occasion to do that than playing against Salt Lake and we will all need to be in the right mental place for that one.

“It’s going to be a tough encounter and we will be ready for it.”

Watch Real Salt Lake v Colorado Rapids live at 365, kicking off at 02.00 GMT.

Click here for Major League Soccer]]><![CDATA[Champions League assists]]>

PlayerClubAssists
Mesut OzilReal Madrid6
Aaron LennonTottenham Hotspur5
Carlos MartinsBenfica5
Darijo SrnaShakhtar Donetsk5
Juan CulioCFR Cluj4
Samuel Eto'oInter Milan4
Ryan GiggsManchester United4
Benoit CheyrouMarseille3
Douglas CostaShakhtar Donetsk3
Peter CrouchTottenham Hotspur3
Andres IniestaBarcelona3
Juan MataValencia3
Lionel MessiBarcelona3
Samir NasriArsenal3
Goran PandevInter Milan3
Luis SuarezAjax3
Jack WilshereArsenal3

* Correct as of April 13. Quarter-finals completed.


Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham 0 Real Madrid 1 (agg 0-5)]]>
Cristiano Ronaldo netted the only goal as Real Madrid saw off Tottenham to set up a Champions League semi-final clash with Barcelona.

Madrid arrived at White Hart Lane with a four-goal advantage from the first leg and only a collapse of epic proportions was going to prevent them meeting Barca for a place at Wembley Stadium in May.

That never looked likely as Spurs failed to test visiting goalkeeper Iker Casillas in the early stages, but Madrid hearts will have fluttered when Luka Modric went to ground under a challenge from Xabi Alonso and Roman Pavlyuchenko appeared to be clipped by Raul Albiol, but referee Nicola Rizzi rejected both penalty appeals.

Pavlyuchenko then wasted Spurs’ first real chance of the game, blazing a shot high into the stand after Aaron Lennon found him unmarked in the box, and the Russian forward’s next chance nestled in the arms of Casillas.

At the other end Heurelho Gomes was forced to push away a Sergio Ramos header that threatened to creep in under the crossbar, but the Brazilian then made a dreadful howler that ended Spurs’ dream when he spilled a speculative effort from Ronaldo into his own net on 50 minutes.

Looking to salvage something from the tie Spurs went back on the attack but Pavlyuchenko was again wasteful as he headed over, and Jermain Defoe then brought a decent save out of Casillas as the White Hart Lane faithful desperately hoped for a goal to cheer.

Defoe almost bundled in an equaliser after Casillas failed to deal with Rafael van der Vaart’s corner, but there would not be one last moment to savour as Spurs’ remarkable European campaign came to an end.

For Real Madrid, they now face a mouth-watering clash with bitter foes Barcelona in the semi-finals, with the two teams also set to meet in La Liga and the Copa del Rey final over the coming weeks.

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[FC Schalke 2 Inter Milan 1 (agg 7-3)]]>
Holders Inter Milan crashed out of the Champions League with a 2-1 quarter-final defeat at FC Schalke.

Inter were always up against it after suffering a crushing 5-2 first-leg defeat on home soil, but a memorable fightback never looked to be on the cards as they produced a tepid first-half produced at the Veltins-Arena.

It was only with 10 minutes to go in the half that the Italian champions finally managed to trouble Manuel Neuer in the Schalke goal, and the Germany international responded in style with a fingertip save to deny Dejan Stefanovic.

And their defence was all but over when Raul struck on the stroke of half-time, racing onto a Jose Manuel Jurado through-ball before rounding Julio Cesar to net record 71st goal in the Europe’s premier club competition.

Inter pulled one back five minutes into the second half when Wesley Sneijder’s cross was met by Lucio and Thiago Motta diverted the ball into the net, but Benedikt Howedes, who earlier had a ‘goal’ incorrectly ruled out for offside, won it for Schalke with nine minutes remaining.

The German side now face a two-legged semi-final showdown with English Premier League leaders Manchester United.

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Rio Ferdinand: Man Utd deserve semi-final spot]]>
Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United were deserved winners in their Champions League clash with Chelsea.

United following up a 1-0 first-leg victory with a 2-1 success at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, setting up a semi-final showdown with either FC Schalke or Inter Milan.

And Ferdinand has no doubt in his mind that the Red Devils deserve to be in the final four of this season’s competition.

He told Sky Sports: “I thought we were convincingly the better team over the two games.

“We knew Chelsea was going to be a tough game for us. They weren't going to come, lay down and take the result.

“We worked hard. We pressed. We were on the front foot I thought and looked the more likely team to score and we did.

“That takes character and I think we've got that in abundance in this squad.

“We've been in situations where we've needed people to step up and produce something to get us out of a hole.

“They'll have been thinking we'll get at them now for the next 10 minutes (after Didier Drogba’s equaliser on Tuesday night), but we kind of put the game to bed with the next goal straight away.”

And Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech agreed with Ferdinand, telling L’Equipe: “We didn't deserve much more.

“We lost the two games in the quarter-final and that proves Manchester was just better than us and deserved qualification.”

He added: “This is the year to learn from and to pick ourselves up and finish the season strongly, because there is still plenty to play for.

“We want to finish as high as possible in the league. We have to pick ourselves up and get ready for next season. If we win most of the games, we can finish second.”

Click here for Manchester United FC News]]><![CDATA[Marouane Fellaini keen for Everton contract talks]]>
Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini is keen to discuss a new contract with the Goodison Park outfit.

Fellaini has become a key figure in manager David Moyes’ midfield since arriving from Standard Liege in 2008, making almost 100 appearances for the Toffees.

The 23-year-old was recently linked with a summer switch to Spanish giants Real Madrid, but he insists he is happy on Merseyside and is open to holding negotiations over a new deal.

Fellaini told the Daily Star: “Everton are a club that really care about me.

“My relationship with the manager is excellent and I'm delighted that he considers me a key player and wants to extend my contract.

“The discussions have not yet begun, but I don't suppose they are far off. For my part, I'm ready and waiting.

“I've not been in contact with any other club about leaving Everton. Besides, they will have their say if a club show formal interest in me. I'm still under contract with them.”

The Belgian’s comments will be a huge boost for boss Moyes after he lost Steven Pienaar to Premier League rivals Tottenham earlier this season.

The South Africa international had been in the final year of his contract and the Toffees opted to cash-in on the 29-year-old to avoid losing him for nothing this summer.

Click here for Everton FC News]]><![CDATA[Barcelona boss eyes Real Madrid 'gift' for fans]]>
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola believes another two meetings with Real Madrid will be a “gift” for football fans worldwide.

The two fierce rivals go head-to-head in La Liga this weekend before meeting in the Copa del Rey final, and they now face the prospect of a two-legged Champions League semi-final showdown following Barca’s 6-1 aggregate win over Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Catalan giants now need Madrid to see off Tottenham in their quarter-final tie, which is looking incredibly likely as Jose Mourinho’s men take a 4-0 lead into tonight’s second leg at White Hart Lane.

And Guardiola is relishing the prospect of having to tackle Madrid in Barcelona’s pursuit of glory in La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

The 40-year-old told his club’s official website: “This is a gift that any sports person would be delighted to accept.

“In this situation, all we can do is thank the players, and treat what's happening as a gift. (It's) the chance to compete with the most powerful team.

“No matter how many times we play them, they are still the most powerful team in every sense - the strongest, the ones in the best form, the ones with an unstoppable squad.

“We shall accept the challenge and go for it.”

Click here for La Liga News]]><![CDATA[Carlo Ancelotti admits Fernando Torres blunder]]>
Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he may have got it wrong by starting Fernando Torres in the Champions League defeat to Manchester United.

With the Blues looking to overturn a one-goal deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final tie, Ancelotti opted for his £50m January signing ahead of Didier Drogba at Old Trafford.

The Spain international, who is yet to score for the Blues, once again failed to deliver and was hauled off at half-time as Ancelotti turned to Drogba, and the decision looked to be a smart move as the Ivorian twice troubled United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar before getting on the scoresheet.

However, a 2-1 defeat on the night meant Chelsea crashed out of the competition and when asked if he was wrong to start Torres, Ancelotti said: “Maybe. Could be.

“I told you a lot of times this season I wanted to start with Fernando for this kind of game, these type of tactics.

“Didier played well in the second half. I wanted to put more pressure up front because we needed to score.

“Didier was fresh and he could use his power up front. This was the reason I took out Fernando.”

Meanwhile, United counterpart Sir Alex Ferguson believes Ancelotti’s hand was forced because of the huge fee spent to land Torres from Liverpool.

Ferguson said: “A lot of people thought Drogba would play. I thought having signed Torres for the money they did they had to play him.

“I wasn't 100% sure but I couldn't see how they could leave Torres out.”

Click here for Chelsea FC News]]><![CDATA[FC Schalke v Inter Milan preview]]>
Inter Milan have received a huge boost with the news Wesley Sneijder is fit to face FC Schalke in the Champions League.

The current holders head to Germany looking to overturn a 5-2 deficit from the first leg of this quarter-final tie, and Holland international Sneijder has overcome a bout of flu to be part of the travelling party.

Walter Samuel could make his return from a lengthy spell out with a cruciate knee ligament injury and Lucio has completed his suspension, but Cristian Chivu is banned after being sent off in the first leg.

FC Schalke, meanwhile, will be without striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar because of a knee injury that also kept him out of the initial tie last week.

Jefferson Farfan sits this one out through suspension, while both Angelos Charisteas (thigh) and Christoph Metzelder (broken nose) are doubtful.

But former Spain international Raul, UEFA’s all-time leading goalscorer, is available and is expected to start up front.

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham v Real Madrid preview]]>
Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon is available for tonight’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

Lennon was a last-gasp withdrawal from the Spurs side that was thrashed 4-0 in the first leg a week ago, but the England man has overcome illness and is expected to feature against the Spanish giants at White Hart Lane this evening.

Steven Pienaar looks to have overcome his groin problem, but manager Harry Redknapp has doubts over Vedran Corluka (ankle) and Niko Kranjcar (foot).

Definitely absent for the North London club are defensive quartet Alan Hutton (knee), Ledley King (groin), Younes Kaboul and Jonathan Woodgate (both calf), while Peter Crouch sits out through suspension after being sent off in the first leg.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho is able to call upon Karim Benzema after the France international recovered from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the initial tie at the Bernabeu.

Sami Khedira missed the weekend La Liga match with the flu but looks to have recovered in time to face Spurs.

However, Pepe (suspension), Lassana Diarra (hip), Pedro Leon (knee) and Fernando Gago (groin) are all absent as Madrid look to set up a semi-final showdown with fierce rivals Barcelona.

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham v Real Madrid: Road to Champions League quarter-finals]]>
QUARTER-FINAL, FIRST LEG

Real Madrid 4 Tottenham 0 - Real Madrid: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Di Maria (Kaka 77), Ozil, Khedira (L. Diarra 61), Adebayor (Higuain 75). Tottenham: Gomes, Bale, Jenas, Van der Vaart (Defoe 46), Gallas, Modric, Crouch, Dawson, Corluka (Bassong 80), Sandro, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Adebayor 4, 57, Di María 72, Ronaldo 87



TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
QUALIFYING

FIRST LEG - Young Boys 3 Tottenham 2: Gomes, Bale, Pavlyuchenko, Palacios, Modric (Kranjcar 46), Dos Santos, Defoe (Keane 66), Bassong, Dawson, Corluka, Assou-Ekotto (Huddlestone 36).
Goals: Bassong 42, Pavlyuchenko 83

SECOND LEG – Tottenham 4 Young Boys 0: Gomes (Cudicini 46), Bale (Kranjcar 82), Huddlestone, Lennon, Palacios, Crouch, Defoe (Pavlyuchenko 62), Dawson, Corluka, King, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Crouch 5, 61, 78 pen, Defoe 32

GROUP STAGE

MATCHDAY 1 – Werder Bremen 2 Tottenham 2: Cudicini, Bale, Kaboul, Huddlestone, Lennon (Palacios 76), Jenas, Van der Vaart (Keane 49), Crouch, Corluka, King, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Pasanen og 12, Crouch 18.

MATCHDAY 2 – Tottenham 4 FC Twente 1: Gomes, Hutton, Bale, Huddlestone, Pavlyuchenko (Keane 89), Van der Vaart, Modric (Lennon 82), Crouch (Jenas 66), Bassong, King, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Van der Vaart 47, Pavlyuchenko 50 pen, 64 pen, Bale 85

MATCHDAY 3 – Inter Milan 4 Tottenham 3: Gomes, Hutton, Bale, Huddlestone (Palacios 80), Lennon, Jenas, Gallas, Modric (Cudicini 11), Crouch (Keane 67), Bassong, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Bale 52, 90, 90+1

MATCHDAY 4 – Tottenham 3 Inter Milan 1: Cudicini, Hutton, Bale, Kaboul, Huddlestone, Lennon (Palacios 85), Van der Vaart (Jenas 46), Gallas, Modric, Crouch (Pavlyuchenko 76), Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Van der Vaart 18, Crouch 61, Pavlyuchenko 89

MATCHDAY 5 – Tottenham 3 Werder Bremen 0: Gomes, Hutton, Bale, Kaboul, Lennon, Jenas (Palacios 20), Pavlyuchenko (Defoe 58), Gallas, Modric, Crouch, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Kaboul 6, Modric 45, Crouch 79

MATCHDAY 6 – FC Twente 3 Tottenham 3: Gomes, Bale, Jenas (Lennon 34), Pavlyuchenko (Keane 72), Palacios, Gallas, Defoe, Bassong, Kranjcar (Crouch 86), Corluka, Assou-Ekotto.
Goals: Wisgerhof og 12, Defoe 47, 59

LAST-16

FIRST LEG – AC Milan 0 Tottenham 1: Gomes, Lennon, Van der Vaart (Modric 62), Palacios, Gallas, Crouch, Dawson, Corluka (Woodgate 59), Sandro, Assou-Ekotto, Pienaar (Kranjcar 76)
Goals: Crouch 80

SECOND LEG – Tottenham 0 AC Milan 0: Gomes, Lennon, Van der Vaart (Bale 66), Gallas, Modric, Crouch (Pavlyuchenko 83), Dawson, Corluka, Sandro, Assou-Ekotto, Pienaar (Jenas 71).



REAL MADRID
GROUP STAGE

MATCHDAY 1 – Real Madrid 2 Ajax 0: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe, Ronaldo, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso (L. Diarra 83), Arbeloa, Higuaín, Di María (Pedro Leon 80), Ozil (Canales 88), Khedira.
Goals: Anita og 31, Higuaín 73

MATCHDAY 2 – Auxerre 0 Real Madrid 1: Casillas, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo, Benzema (Ozil 58), L. Diarra (Di Maria 74), Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa, Higuaín (M. Diarra 86), Khedira.
Goals: Di Maria 81

MATCHDAY 3 – Real Madrid 2 AC Milan 0: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe, Ronaldo, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa, Higuain (Benzema 89), Di María (Granero 87), Ozil (L. Diarra 83), Khedira.
Goals: Ronaldo 13, Ozil 14

MATCHDAY 4 – AC Milan 2 Real Madrid 2: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe (Pedro Leon 80), Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Higuain (Benzema 74), Di Maria, Ozil (Albiol 90+3), Khedira.
Goals: Higuain 45, Pedro Leon 90+4

MATCHDAY 5 – Ajax 0 Real Madrid 4: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo, Benzema (Canales 82), L. Diarra (Mateos 81), Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa, Albiol, Pedro Leon (Di María 65), Ozil.
Goals: Benzema 36, Arbeloa 44, Ronaldo 70, pen 81

MATCHDAY 6 – Real Madrid 4 Auxerre 0: Dudek (Adan 45+4), Carvalho, M. Diarra, Ronaldo (Sarabia 72), Benzema, L. Diarra, Granero, Marcelo (Garay 76), Arbeloa, Albiol, Pedro Leon.
Goals: Benzema 12, 72, 88, Ronaldo 49

LAST 16

FIRST LEG – Lyon 1 Real Madrid 1: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo, Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa, Di María, Ozil (Marcelo 75), Khedira (L. Diarra 68), Adebayor (Benzema 64).
Goals: Gomis 83; Benzema 65

SECOND LEG – Real Madrid 3 0 Lyon 0: Casillas, Carvalho, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Ronaldo (Adebayor 74), Benzema (L. Diarra 84), Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Di María (Granero 78), Ozil, Khedira.
Goals: Marcelo 37, Benzema 66, Di María 76

Click here for Champions League News]]><![CDATA[Tottenham v Real Madrid: Champions League match facts]]>
PREVIOUS MEETINGS
  • Tottenham went down 4-0 in the quarter-final first leg at the Bernabeu, former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor heading the first two goals (4, 57) either side of Peter Crouch's 15th-minute red card. Angel Di María (72) and Cristiano Ronaldo (87) added further strikes.
  • Madrid became the first away team to win at Tottenham when eliminating the London club from the 1984/85 UEFA Cup quarter-finals. Peter Shreeves' side, the then-holders, were undone by a 15th-minute Steve Perryman own goal in the first leg at White Hart Lane, the defender deflecting in a cross from Emilio Butragueno, today Madrid's director of institutional relations. That defeat was the first time Tottenham had even failed to score at White Hart Lane in Europe; of their previous 42 games, they had won 35 and drawn seven.
  • The second leg finished goalless – with Perryman sent off after 78 minutes – and Amaro Amancio's Madrid, whose side also featured Jorge Valdano, now the club's director general, went on to lift their first European trophy in 19 years.
MATCH BACKGROUND
  • Harry Redknapp's hosts have won four out of five home games so far but face a Madrid side unbeaten on their travels and determined to reach their first semi-final in eight years, although not since 2000 have they won a UEFA Champions League knockout round game on foreign soil.
  • In order to emulate their predecessors in the 1961/62 European Champion Clubs' Cup, who reached the semi-finals, Tottenham must do what only three clubs have previously managed in UEFA competition – overturn a four-goal first-leg deficit.
  • Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has not only won all four of his previous UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, but also triumphed on three of four visits to White Hart Lane with Chelsea. Mourinho was also victorious on his return to London last year, steering Inter Milan to victory at Chelsea.
  • Tottenham are seeking a first home victory over Spanish opposition at the fifth attempt. They have previously drawn two and lost two against visitors from Spain, most recently going down 2-1 to Getafe in the 2007/08 UEFA Cup group stage when Esteban Granero, now a Madrid player, scored the visitors' equalising goal.
  • Tottenham have four wins from five home matches this season, including qualifying, with 14 goals scored and two conceded. The draw came with a goalless stalemate against Milan in the last round, securing a 1-0 aggregate success.
  • Madrid have recorded two victories and two draws on their travels, though the 1-1 draw at Lyon in the last 16 means they have still not won in another country during the competition's latter stages since the 1999/2000 quarter-finals. That victory came in England, a 3-2 second-leg triumph at Manchester United. Madrid did win away in the 2001/02 semi-finals but that was at Barcelona.
  • The Spanish side suffered a 4-0 defeat at Liverpool on their last visit to England in the 2008/09 UEFA Champions League round of 16. Their most recent win came in the 2000/01 second group stage when they defeated Leeds United.
  • Tottenham won their first European trophy by beating Atletico Madrid 5-1 in the 1963 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final in Rotterdam.
  • While Tottenham have played one previous European Cup quarter-final Madrid have been in 27, winning 21.
  • Tottenham have won eight of the 13 UEFA competition ties in which they have lost the first leg, although they have never before managed to overturn more than a two-goal deficit, which they did against Gornik Zabrze (1961/62 European Cup preliminary round, 2-4 away, 8-1 home) and SK Slovan Bratislava (1962/63 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup quarter-finals, 0-2 away, 6-0 home).
  • When winning the first leg at home Madrid have subsequently gone through in 40 of the 53 ties, including all five when they initially triumphed 4-0. The largest first-leg advantage they have let slip is two goals, which has happened seven times, although their last four first-leg home victories (Bayern Munich, 2006/07 round of 16, Juventus, 2004/05 round of 16 and 2002/03 semi-finals and Monaco, 2003/04 quarter-finals) have still preceded an aggregate reverse.
UEFA MILESTONES AND STATISTICS
TOTTENHAM
  • Spurs have scored 46 European Champion Clubs' Cup goals. They have struck 296 in UEFA competition, conceding 149.
  • Spurs have had fewer shots on goal (41), corners (37) and offside calls against them (15) than any other quarter-finalist.
  • Peter Crouch has committed 26 fouls, more than any player still involved.
  • Tottenham first team coach Joe Jordan served a one-match ban in the first leg; Crouch is suspended for one game following his red card in Madrid.
REAL MADRID
  • Madrid have scored 899 goals in UEFA competition.
  • Madrid and FC Barcelona are the competition's highest scorers with 23 goals.
  • Madrid have had more shots on target (78) and won more corners (62) than any other team in the last eight.
  • Mesut Ozil has claimed six assists; more than any other player.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo has had 21 shots on goal, the joint highest total along with Lionel Messi, and 26 shots wide, more than any other player.
  • Pepe serves a one-match ban following his first-leg yellow card; Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Ricardo Carvalho, Angel Di María and Raul Albiol are within a booking of suspension.

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