Champions League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Inter 1 Arsenal 0 LIVE RESULT: Gunners BEATEN in Champions League as Calhanoglu penalty seals victory – latest updates

      by

      ARSENAL were beaten 1-0 by Inter Milan in the Champions League thanks to a first-half penalty. Mikel Merino was penalised for a handball in the area and the resulting spot kick was tucked away by Hakan Calhanoglu on the stroke of half-time. Kai Havertz came off late in the game after suffering a bloody gash to his head. Kick-off time: 8pm GMTLive stream: discovery+TV channel: TNT Sports 1Inter XI: Sommer; Pavard, De Vrij, Bisseck; Dumfries, Frattesi, Çalhanoglu, Zielinski, Darmian; Taremi, Lautaro MartínezArsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Partey, Havertz, Mikel Merino; Saka, Martinelli, TrossardFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the San Siro with our live blog below…Midfield looking bare in MilanMost sides in European football would miss players such as Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice.Arsenal certainly did this evening and their cover for these players does not seem to keep them at the levels they want to be at.It will be integral to their season that Arteta is able to wrap them in cotton wool and ensure there are no prolonged spells on sidelines for the remainder of the campaign.Copy linkCopiedChampions League still looking goodDespite tonight’s defeat, Arsenal currently sit in twelfth place in the new format league table.Obviously every side wants to finish in the top eight, to avoid a two-legged play-off, but as it stands they are only two points away from these places.Inter move to fifth in the table and are now three points clear of The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedTough run ahead for GunnersWith an international break thrown in the middle of it, Arsenal have some tough fixtures coming up.They travel to Stamford Bridge this weekend for what seems like a crucial game before the break.Then they face high-flying Nottingham Forest, travel to Sporting Lisbon and also face Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd.Much will rely upon Odegaard getting back to his best form as quickly as possible.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies in MilanWell, what do Arsenal now? Three defeats in their last six in all competitions and no signs of that changing ahead of what is now a HUGE visit to Chelsea on Sunday.Mikel Arteta’s men had nearly 50 crosses and still could not break down an Inter side who were as impressive as they were stubborn.Arsenal have gone 408 minutes away from home in the Champions League without a goal and have not scored in their last two – here and in thew 1-0 loss at Newcastle.They need goals. They need results. If not, the critics will come for Mikel Arteta and he will have no hiding place.Copy linkCopiedBoss not happy with manner of defeatThe Gunners boss spoke with BT Sport after the game in the San Siro:I’m very proud of my players and the game we played. I feel that we were harshly done tonight. If you give that penalty agaiinst us, you have to give the one where our player was punched in the head. The team plays like we did here tonight, we can go to Chelsea and win.Mikel ArtetaArsenalCopy linkCopiedGunners firing blanks once againWhile many pundits will defend the transfer activity of their former employers, no one can deny there is something lacking.They do not have an out and out number nine and often there iis no presence in the penalty area to cause problems for the opposition.The owners have invested heavily in transfers but Arteta has opted not to strengthen in the striking department.Add to that, they sold Folarin Balogun to Monaco in the summer after he scored 21 goals in 37 games on loan to Reims last season.Copy linkCopiedDenzel dominates as the Inside ManInter’s Denzel Dumfries starred for the Italians this evening.As ever, he was up and down the touchline throughout the game.He was a threat going forward but also contributed in a defensive sense to keep The Gunners out.Copy linkCopiedDisappointing night in MilanMikel Arteta’s side are going through a mini-wobble currently.They have lost three of their last six games and their only two wins have come against Preston and Shakhtar Donetsk.With a big game coming up against rivals Chelsea on the weekend, The Gunners need to rediscover their form sooner rather than later.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedFT: Inter 1-0 ArsenalThe Gunners suffer their first defeat in this season’s Champions League competition.Despite all their possession they did not create enough problems for Inter in the San Siro this evening.While the stats look good, they can be somewhat misleading, Sommer only had one real save to make in that second-half.Copy linkCopiedFT: Inter 1-0 ArsenalThe referee brings the game to a close.Inter have inflicted defeat on Arsenal at the San Siro.They just could not breakdown this Italian defence.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90+4. Arteta will be hoping Havertz is able to play Sunday against Chelsea after that gash to his head.The travelling fans are pleased to see their Norwegian playmaker back on the pitch again.No pressure, you have three minutes to change the game.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90+2. We have a break in play after a collision of heads.Bisseck and Havertz are both receiving treatment.The German has been forced off with a nasty cut and is being replaced by Odegaard.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal90. Another ball comes into the box.This time Havertz wins the header and knocks it down.Inter are alert to the danger and hack the ball clear.We are going to have five added minutes.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal88. Inter have not offered a lot in an attacking sense in this half.Not that they will be worried about that if they win this game.The ball is very much in Arsenal’s court to try and break them down now in what remains of this game.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal86. Martinelli swings another cross into the box.Arsenal have plenty of numbers in the box but once again the defender is fiirst to it as they head clear.The home fans are making some noise in the San Siro, trying to see their team through to the final whistle.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal84. Inter are dealing with the aerial threat with ease.Apart from when Saliba or Gabriel can come forward, mainly set-pieces, there is no one who can make a nuisance of themselves in the box.Saliba is penalised for a foul on Thuram.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal82. It must be a concern for Arteta how his team do not look like scoring in open play whatsoever.Zinchenko and Nwaneri replace Timber and Trossard.Final roll of the dice from The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal80. Inter bring on Dimarco for Taremi.As we head into the final ten minutes of the game, the hosts will be thinking of holding on to what they have now.Timber sends a cross into the box but it is headed clear once again.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal78. Time is starting to run out for The Gunners now.Arteta may be tempted to bring on Odegaard for the remainder of this game.Despite having all the possession in the final third, they have no one capable of providing that killer pass to create a goal.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal76. What a huge chance for Arsenal.Inter fail to deal with the cross and it drops to Havertz in the middle of the six yard box.He gets a shot away but Bisseck makes a sublime block to send it behind for a corner.Brilliant defending.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal74. Martinelli wins a free kick as he is bundled over by Dumfries.Arsenal manage to force another corner.Chance for the visitors to put Sommer under some more pressure.It is a poor cross from Martinelli and Havertz knocks it straight out of play for a goal kick.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal72. Calhanoglu comes off for Asllani.Unless something changes in this game, he is easily the man of the match in this game.Dumfries receives the ball from Barella but does not catch it well and it goes wide of the target.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal70. Having just been booked, Jesus needs to be careful now.He goes flying into another challenge immediately after but luckily the referee lets it go.The last thing Arsenal need now is to go down to ten men.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal68. Havertz goes down under the pressure from Barella.He is looking for a free-kick but the referee is not interested.The German needs to be stronger in those situations.Copy linkCopiedInter 1-0 Arsenal66. Saka mannages to create some space but Inter get numbers back quickly.The best he can do is to win another corner for his team.This time his delivery cannot beat the man at the near post.Copy linkCopied More

    • 188 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal fixture chaos eased as crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final clash confirmed but women’s fixture moved

      by

      ARSENAL’S fixture nightmare involving the Carabao Cup quarter-final has been eased after it was announced the game would be played on Wednesday, December 18.The Gunners’ progression into the final eight of the competition – where they drew Crystal Palace at the Emirates – caused a horribly congested schedule in the middle of the month.Mikel Arteta has seen Arsenal’s men handed an eased fixture scheduleCredit: RexThey will face Crystal Palace on Wednesday, December 18Credit: ReutersBut it will force Arsenal Women to have their Champions League game with Bayern Munich moved elsewhereCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side were fearing a two-day turnaround with an Arsenal Women’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich at the Emirates meaning a Wednesday clash was not possible.This would have either led to Crystal Palace being left with a two-day turnaround after playing Brighton on Sunday if the game was played on Tuesday 17 or both sides facing a two-day turnaround before their Premier League clash with the Eagles on Saturday evening if the game was played on Thursday.However, a twist to events has seen Arsenal men given priority to play the fixture at the Emirates on Wednesday.The EFL have confirmed that the fixture will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, December 18.READ MORE IN FOOTBAL;A club statement on the matter of the moved women’s game said: “We are liaising with UEFA, and further details regarding our UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich will be announced in due course.”Arsenal Women normally play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates.Tickets for the Bayern game have been on sale since September 28.But Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team play the rest of their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSunSport understands that a new venue, rather than a new date, is being targeted for Arsenal on the moved fixture.Fans of the women’s team were furious with the announcement and the priority given to the men’s team over the women’s.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash Taking to social media, the Arsenal Women Supporters Club said: “Really disappointed by the change in priorities for this game. “It’s been set in stone for a while, and now shifting the date affects so many people, especially traveling and international Gooners who have already booked flights and hotels.”A second fan said: “Not that the women’s team didn’t already have a champions league game being played here the same night that fans have already booked tickets, days off work, travel and hotels for or anything… Do better Arsenal.”A third said: “This is ludicrous.”Carabao Cup quarter-final in fullQuarter-final fixture dates and times confirmed:Arsenal v Crystal Palace – December 18, 7.30pmNewcastle v Brentford – December 18, 7.45pmSouthampton v Liverpool – December 18, 8pmTottenham v Manchester United – December 19, 8pmAnother said: “Really disappointing that the women’s game against Bayern has been shifted for this.”A fifth added: “A UEFA game is surely more important than an EFL game, no matter whether it’s the men’s or women’s team?”Arsenal men’s clash with Crystal Palace will be the early kick-off that evening.It will be shown on Sky Sports football.Newcastle’s clash with Brentford will commence at 7.45pm on Wednesday and will not appear on live TV, but rather Sky Sports+.Southampton against Liverpool will start at 8pm that day and be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Tottenham’s clash against Manchester United will take place on Thursday, December 19 at 8pm.It will be aired on live TV with Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.” More

    • 263 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Jude Bellingham kicks bottle in fury after he is subbed in AC Milan defeat as Thierry Henry gives theory behind strop

      by

      VEXED Jude Bellingham booted a water bottle in frustration after he was hauled off early during Real Madrid’s 3-1 defeat to AC Milan.Both Bellingham and Los Blancos have struggled following the arrival of French superstar Kylian Mbappe, 25, at the club.Jude Bellingham kicked a water bottle in frustration after he was subbed off during Madrid’s latest Champions League defeatThe Madrid star has been starting from the left hand side this seasonThierry Henry has offered his theory about Bellingham’s frustrationsCredit: X / CBSSportsGolazoAnd the crisis sunk to new depths on Tuesday after Madrid suffered back-to-back losses at the Bernabeu. Madrid already trail LaLiga leaders Barcelona by nine points and are in the bottom half of the Champions League table.And Bellingham’s frustrations boiled over as he trudged off the pitch and let out his anger on a water bottle in the 74th minute.But Premier League legend Thierry Henry believes that Bellingham had every right to be angry with boss Carlo Ancelotti and Mbappe.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe told CBS Sports Golazo: “It’s always Bellingham trying to make the run, trying to make the team play, running in behind, trying to break the line.”I think there is a little frustration. Your nine isn’t going, and your 10 is going. I know it can happen sometimes but not all the time. Every single time.”I know he’s not a number nine and that this maybe is not what he likes to do. Do you think he likes to make those runs, try and stretch the team?”He’ll do it because he has to do it, because his desire speaks, his will speaks.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You don’t win games like that. You don’t win games with your 10 breaking the line, coming back, trying to bend his run, trying to defend, trying to go the other side. And then after, he gets substituted?”I would have been upset too – I saw him kicking a bottle. I would be upset also, of course. Watch Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham roll his eyes at how he is introduced to fans at EA FC 25 launch”For me, this is not good enough and I don’t think they are playing well as a team but on the ball also Mbappe has to do way more.”Henry then added that his compatriot must learn to play in a new position, as Vinicius Junior, who scored Madrid’s only goal of the night from the spot, will not be moved from the left wing.The Arsenal legend added: “Mbappe’s going to have to learn to play as a nine and the desire and the will of running in behind.”He will get better – he can’t be worse than this. We’re not asking him to hold the ball like Didier Drogba, who was magnificent.”We’re not asking him to get the ball and dribble past everybody. But that cannot happen all the time, a run in behind from Bellingham, when the team is high.”‘I’m not going to try to find excuses for Bellingham, but how do you play, where do you go, what do you do?”It’s going to be tough for Ancelotti to find a way so all those players can co-exist.”Carlos Ancelotti has struggled to effectively mould his elite stars after the arrival of MbappeThierry Henry has urged Mbappe to learn how to play as a nineBellingham has often been shunted to play on the left, away from his No10 role last term.The 21-year-old scored 23 goals from behind the striker in his debut season, winning both the Champions League and LaLiga.He managed 36 goal involvements in 42 appearances for Los Blancos, making him one of the club’s most influential players and earning him third place in the Ballon d’Or standings.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpanish outlets have widely reported Bellingham has “declined” since his shift to a defensive position.The England star was labelled a “shadow of his former self” after Ancelotti played him out of position during Barca’s 4-0 El Clasico thrashing. More

    • 225 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Champions League LIVE SCORES: Harry Kane’s Bayern face Benfica, Aston Villa in action, PSG host Atletico – updates

      by

      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE football returned in style on Tuesday – and there is plenty more thrilling action in store for TONIGHT!England captain Harry Kane will be looking to continue his incredible goal-scoring run against Portuguese giants Benfica.Aston Villa travel to Club Brugge, PSG host Atletico Madrid and Arsenal make the trip to Italy for a blockbuster Inter Milan encoutner.But the main talking point continues to be around new Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim and his talisman Viktor Gyokeres who inspired Sporting to a 4-1 victory last night against Manchester City.Kick-off times: 5:45pm/8pm GMTLive stream: discovery+TV channel: TNT SportsFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from matchday four of the Champions League with our live blog below…Emery looking to bounce back from defeatAston Villa took a heavy defeat on the chin on the weekend.Despite going ahead in North London, Tottenham ran out as 4-1 winners in the Premier League.Unai Emery’s side need to win if they want to leapfrog Liverpool at the top of the Champions League table.Copy linkCopiedCeltic keep qualification hopes aliveWhen Brendan Rodgers’ side got heavily beat against Borussia Dortmund, many expected yet another early exit from Europe’s elite competition.Having amassed seven points from their first four games, Celtic are now well-placed to build on this and secure a place in the latter stages.They showed grit and determination after going a goal down against RB Leipzig but turned the game around to run out 3-1 winners.Copy linkCopiedVilla look to build on historic Bayern winAston Villa make the short trip across the channel to take on Club Brugge tonight.Jhon Duran was the hero once again for the West Midlands side as Unai Emery’s men beat Bayern Munich 1-0 on a special night at Villa Park last month.With two wins and two clean sheets in this monumental Champions League group, Villa are proving themselves well worthy of a place back on European football’s grandest stage.Tonight, they hope to make it three.Kick off begins at 5.45pm.Copy linkCopiedPep left frustrated in PortugalFootball can be a cruel mistress at times.Man City dominated the first-half against Sporting Lisbon but did not take their chances and paid the ultimate price.It means that Pep Guardiola’s side have now lost back-to-back games and the injuries are mounting up.Copy linkCopiedThe curse of Kylian MbappeSigning arguably the best striker in the world seemed to make Real Madrid unbeatable given their current squad.Mbappe’s career in Madrid has not taken off as many expected.A player who has never won the Champions League, could his curse mean Ancelotti’s side miss out on the biggest trophy this season?A heavy defeat at home against rivals Barcelona has been followed up by a 3-1 loss to AC Milan this evening.Copy linkCopiedGaffer continues dream startLiverpool sit top of both the Premier League and Champions League under new manager Arne Slot.Nobody expected him to make this start to his Reds’ career and he continues to rewrite the record books.Slot has won 14 of his first 16 games as Liverpool manager.This could be a season to remember for their fans if it continues how it has started.Copy linkCopiedGUNNER BE MISSEDArsenal will be without Declan Rice for Wednesday night’s Champions League clash with Inter Milan.The England midfielder, 25, did not travel to Italy with his Gunners team-mates.Rice played the full 90 minutes as Arsenal were beaten 1-0 at Newcastle on Saturday.But he did not take part in training on Tuesday morning.It is not yet clear why Rice was absent.But Gunners boss Mikel Arteta will have to do without the £100million man as his side take on the Italian champions.Copy linkCopiedChampions League tableHere is how the league is looking in the new format Champions League before we head into tomorrow night’s games:Copy linkCopiedChampions League fixturesClub Brugge vs Aston VillaShakhtar Donetsk vs Young BoysBayern Munich vs BenficaFeyenoord vs Red Bull SalzburgInter Milan vs ArsenalPSG vs Atletico MadridRed Star Belgrade vs BarcelonaSparta Prague vs BrestStuttgart vs AtalantaCopy linkCopiedArteta unlikely to risk talismanThere is no doubting that Arsenal have looked a pale comparison of their best without Martin Odegaard.The good news for Gunners’ fans is that he has returned to training a lot earlier than expected.While he is travelling with the squad to Italy, it remains to be seen whether Mikel Arteta will risk him in this crucial match.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEmery looking to bounce back from defeatAston Villa took a heavy defeat on the chin on the weekend.Despite going ahead in North London, Tottenham ran out as 4-1 winners in the Premier League.Unai Emery’s side need to win if they want to leapfrog Liverpool at the top of the Champions League table.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCeltic keep qualification hopes aliveWhen Brendan Rodgers’ side got heavily beat against Borussia Dortmund, many expected yet another early exit from Europe’s elite competition.Having amassed seven points from their first four games, Celtic are now well-placed to build on this and secure a place in the latter stages.They showed grit and determination after going a goal down against RB Leipzig but turned the game around to run out 3-1 winners.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedChampions League tableHere is how the league is looking in the new format Champions League before we head into tomorrow night’s games:Credit: @FootRankingsCopy linkCopiedThe curse of Kylian MbappeSigning arguably the best striker in the world seemed to make Real Madrid unbeatable given their current squad.Mbappe’s career in Madrid has not taken off as many expected.A player who has never won the Champions League, could his curse mean Ancelotti’s side miss out on the biggest trophy this season?A heavy defeat at home against rivals Barcelona has been followed up by a 3-1 loss to AC Milan this evening.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedPep left frustrated in PortugalFootball can be a cruel mistress at times.Man City dominated the first-half against Sporting Lisbon but did not take their chances and paid the ultimate price.It means that Pep Guardiola’s side have now lost back-to-back games and the injuries are mounting up.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGaffer continues dream startLiverpool sit top of both the Premier League and Champions League under new manager Arne Slot.Nobody expected him to make this start to his Reds’ career and he continues to rewrite the record books.Slot has won 14 of his first 16 games as Liverpool manager.This could be a season to remember for their fans if it continues how it has started.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Real Madrid 1-3 AC MilanThe big surprise result of the evening came in Spain.AC Milan scored three goals to stun Santiago Bernabau.Alvaro Morata got the third goal as the Spaniard rubbed salt in the wound capping off a brilliant display from the Italians.Copy linkCopiedChampions League resultsPSV 4-0 GironaSlovan Bratislava 1-4 Dinamo ZagrebBologna 0-1 MonacoBorussia Dortmund 1-0 Sturm GrazCeltic 3-1 RB LeipzigLille 1-1 JuventusLiverpool 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenReal Madrid 1-3 AC MilanSporting 4-1 Man CityCopy linkCopiedFT: Celtic 3-1 RB LeipzigA massive result for Brendan Rodgers’ side.They fell behind to a goal from Cristoph Baumgartner but that is as good as it got for the visitors.Celtic move to seven points in this season’s Champions League.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Charlie WyettIncredible second half performance from Liverpool. There will certainly not be any Reds fans wishing Xabi Alonso was their manager instead of Arne Slot. Next up at Anfield in the Champions League are Real Madrid and what a game that could be.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 4-1 Man CityWhat a way to say goodbye to their fans.Pep Guardiola’s side have been trampled by Sporting Lisbon.All of that after having so many chances to score before the hosts had even registered their first.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LisbonWho writes Ruben Amorim’s scripts? A fairytale way to say goodbye to the home fans at the Jose Alvalade – and endear himself to the new ones at Old Trafford. A night they will be talking about for years to come in this part of Lisbon. And what about Viktor Gyokores – he even eclipsed Erling Haaland by scoring a hat-trick – while the Norwegian thumped a pen against the bar. Copy linkCopiedFT: Liverpool 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenMany Liverpool fans wanted Xabi Alonso to replace Jurgen Klopp.They got Arne Slot and they are top of every league in which they compete so far this season.A Luis Diaz hat-trick and a Cody Gakpo goal make for an emphatic win for The Reds.Touch of class from the home fans as they sing their Xabi Alonso chant once the victory is sealed.Copy linkCopied90+1. GOAL – LIVERPOOL 4-0 Bayer LeverkusenHis name is Lucho, he came from Porto……….he came to score, score, score.Diaz gets his first hat-trick in a Liverpool shirt.Levels.Copy linkCopiedReal Madrid 1-3 AC Milan85. A huge cheer from the away end at Santiago Bernabeu.VAR has ruled out Rudiger’s goal.Huge blow for Madrid.Copy linkCopied More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid star’s stunning Wag Mina Bonino slams Carlo Ancelotti after AC Milan defeat.. before claiming she was HACKED

      by

      REAL MADRID star Federico Valverde’s wife appeared to criticise Carlo Ancelotti on social media before claiming her account was hacked.The Spanish giants’ difficult start to the season continued last night as they were beaten 3-1 by AC Milan in the Champions League.Federico Valverde was subbed off at half-time in Real Madrid’s defeat to MilanCredit: GettyValverde’s wife Mina Bonino appeared to criticise the decision to haul him offCredit: Instagram / @minaboninoMina claimed he was being used wrongly by the managerCredit: Instagram / Mina BoninoBut she then claimed her account was hacked and the posts were not from herCredit: Instagram / @minaboninoThe stunning Wag works as a journalistCredit: Instagram / @minaboninoValverde, who is predominately a central midfielder, was used on the right-wing yesterday before being hooked off at half-time.The decision to sub the 26-year-old off seemingly enraged his stunning Wag Mina Bonino.Her account tweeted: “It’s better that I keep quiet because they would take me to jail.”A follower then tried to defend the manager’s use of Valverde and she seemingly replied: “Fede plays best as a pivot and in recovery. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”What are you talking about? When are they going to understand once and for all that Fede is not a winger?”Journalist Mina, 30, later deleted the posts and said: “It’s not me, I was hacked.”Asked about the criticism after the game, Ancelotti said: “What people think on social media… for me it’s very complicated.”I replaced him because for me, he was not 100 per cent.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”He had back problems, he seemed to have recovered because he trained well yesterday.”But it turned out he was not at his best physical level, that’s why I changed him.”Inside Real Madrid’s incredible hi-tech free-kick training as stars use robots to hone technique Real Madrid won the Champions League last season but have made a poor start this year, winning two and losing two games in the competition so far.They were also LaLiga winners last term but are already nine points off current leaders Barcelona after being humiliated 4-0 in El Clasico ten days ago.Pressure is mounting on Ancelotti and reports in Madrid state he is in danger of losing the dressing room.On his team’s poor performances, he said: “It is not an issue of motivation or attitude, it’s a collective thing that we need to fix quickly.”On the pitch something is missing and we have not been able to show our best version. “We have to fix this, but the nights are going to be very long and we have to recover the solidity that we are lacking.”That’s the problem above all, we’ve conceded too many goals for a team that is built on solidity.”The couple have two kidsCredit: Instagram / Mina BoninoCarlo Ancellotti is under mounting pressure amid Real Madrid’s poor formCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea cult hero looks like he hasn’t aged a day as he’s spotted in new role at AC Milan

      by

      A CHELSEA cult hero looks like he hasn’t aged a day since retirement.The ex-player in question was on the touchline for AC Milan’s 3-1 win over Madrid in the Champions League last night.The Chelsea cult hero, left, is now an assistant at AC MilanHe remains a popular figure among Chelsea fans, having played for the club for nine years between 2004 and 2013.The former full-back won three Premier League titles, as well as the Champions League in 2012 and Europa League with the Blues in 2013.After winning Europe’s top competition with Porto in 2004, he followed Jose Mourinho from Portugal to West London a few months later.The 45-year-old is now an assistant coach at AC Milan.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIf you haven’t already guessed, the cult hero in question is, of course, Paulo Ferreira.Ferreira followed new Milan boss Paulo Fonseca from Lille in the summer.And his new club were responsible for Carlo Ancelotti’s second European defeat of the season, as Madrid suffered back-to-back losses at the Bernabeu. But Ferreira could’ve been mistaken for a current player on Tuesday evening.Most read in FootballFerreira spent nine seasons at ChelseaFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 62-capped Portugal international was seen hugging Ancelotti and former Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata, who scored on the night, at full-time.And he still sports his signature jet-black locks, tan and light stubbled beard.Robert Grieve reacts as Celtic secure stunning Champions League win over RB LeipzigHe made 141 Prem appearances, providing four assists from full-back.Ferreira began working with Chelsea’s loan players after his retirement in 2013.He was also a club ambassador before ending his 18-year association with Stamford Bridge after Roman Abramovich put the club up for sale in 2022.The assistant coach linked up with his compatriot Fonseca at Ligue 1 side Lillie in 2023, before moving to AC Milan with him in July.The Rossoneri sit 18th in the Champions League table, having won two and lost two to Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen this term.New Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Punished for having a big booty? Game has gone’ say fans after unfortunate VAR decision in Champions League

      by

      THE Champions League saw a very cheeky VAR decision last night.And the call left one team with the rump as it ultimately decided the match.Donyell Malen netted a late winner against Sturm Graz in the Champions LeagueCredit: GettySerhou Guirassy was just onside in the build-up due to Emanuel Aiwu’s bottomThe bizarre incident came in the clash between Sturm Graz and Borussia Dortmund which the German side won 1-0.Donyell Malen netted the 85th-minute winner at Signal Iduna Park.But it was only given when a VAR check went in their favour.Incredible replays showed that Dortmund star Serhou Guirassy was kept onside in the build up to the goal by the tightest of margins.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLUpon further inspection, it turned out that Guirassy was onside thanks to Emanuel Aiwu’s BACKSIDE.Fans could not help but feel bad for the defender who came unstuck due to his kiester.One posted: “Punished for having a thick stack? Game has gone.”A second wrote: “Booty too Big.”Most read in FootballIt was Emanuel Aiwu’s backside that ensured Dortmund remained onsideCredit: AFPCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third commented: “I like big butts and I can not lie – Dortmund.”A fourth said: “He’s assisting Dortmund there, cheeky decision by VAR.”Watch the moment Dortmund and Celtic fans BOTH sing You’ll Never Walk AloneAnother added: “Saved by the butt.”The goal helped Dortmund seal the win to take their record in the competition to three wins from four games.After the game, manager and former Liverpool star Nuri Sahin praised his side’s performance as he insisted their energy levels were not “normal”.He told Dazn: “We completely controlled the game, apart from one phase between the 60th and 70th minutes.”We need to score our first goal earlier, that opens the door. We didn’t manage to do that. Up to the box, we were good and the plan worked out.”When you score the goal, the spaces get bigger. In the end, we got our reward.READ MORE SUN STORIES’I’m glad that we kept clear heads and got the job done. I told Donny that he needed to bring some intensity to the game.”I have to take my hat off to them. The way the boys ran, it wasn’t normal.”New Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink. More

    • 138 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Should Dream Team bosses be concerned about Manchester City’s creaking form?

      by

      HOW quickly things can change in the world of Dream Team.Prior to Gameweek 10, Manchester City were imperious Premier League leaders and undefeated in the Champions League.Suddenly, after consecutive defeats to Tottenham, Bournemouth and Sporting CP, they’re in crisis.Panic stations?Credit: Dream TeamPep Guardiola’s side aren’t truly in crisis of course; their 2-1 loss to the Cherries ended the fourth-longest unbeaten streak in Premier League history and the decorated tactician will still feel confident of a place in the Champions League knockout stage in the new year.But everything is relative to the standards expected of the club in question and the nature of City’s Gameweek 10 disappointments will have unnerved more than a few Dream Team managers.For starters, Erling Haaland (£8.9m) has been usurped at the top of the rankings by Mohamed Salah (£7.3m).The Norwegian No9’s tally of 150 points remains hugely impressive and he’s still comfortably the top goalscorer in all competitions (14) but gaffers who captained him in Gameweek 10 have been left unsatisfied.Haaland failed to convert any of his chances in Gameweek 10Credit: PAHaaland let fly with plenty of shots against Bournemouth and Sporting but failed to find the net with any of them, including a missed penalty in the Portuguese capital on Tuesday night.As a result, he notched just six points from the two outings while Liverpool’s Egyptian hero banked 22 points at the expense of Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen to claim top spot.Those who captained Salah over Haaland have benefited from a huge swing this week!Most read in FootballElsewhere, Gameweek 10 was also a nightmare for Rico Lewis (£4m).The talented teenager has been one of the best value-for-money assets in the game throughout the first quarter of the season but, with City having conceded six goals, he mustered just a single point across his two most recent outings.Dream Team’s new points leader!Credit: GettyLewis remains fourth in the defensive rankings on 86 points but it’s interesting that he’s currently among the five most transferred-out players ahead of Gameweek 11 – a significant chunk of gaffers have quickly lost faith.Josko Gvardiol (£4.8m) avoided a similarly damaging Gameweek as it was the Croatia left-back who scored City’s only goal at the Vitality Stadium.Generally speaking, it was a dismal Gameweek for the defending champions but Phil Foden (£6m) managed to earn 16 points amid the chaos via a goal and four bonus points – his resurgence is a minor point of optimism at least.Foden provided healthy returns despite Man City’s defeatsCredit: GettyDream Team bosses would be more inclined to remain loyal to their Man City assets if it wasn’t for a spate of troublesome injuries.Guardiola half-prepared fans for these results when he told reporters that he had just 13 players available after his side’s defeat to Spurs in the Carabao Cup in Gameweek 9.While that turned out to be an exaggeration, there’s no doubt the Citizens are feeling the impact of their absentees at present.It’s a well established trend by now that City’s results dip when Ballon d’Or winner Rodri (£4m) is unavailable.On the plus side, Kevin De Bruyne (£6.3m) managed six minutes at the end against the Portuguese champions and may therefore play a more prominent role at Brighton this Saturday.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWBut hopes of a clean sheet in Gameweek 11 appear relatively low after 19-year-old centre-back Jahmai Simpson-Pusey was given a baptism of fire by Sporting’s hat-trick hero Viktor Gyokeres.The Seagulls will be quietly confident of their chances on home soil having seen Guardiola’s men give up a string of big chances in recent outings.Guardiola rarely suffers three consecutive defeatsCredit: RexIt’s too soon to earnestly discuss whether Haaland still warrants a place in a competitive Dream Team XI as he took Sparta Prague and Southampton for a combined 31 points as recently as late October but another blank this weekend would set a cat among the pigeons.READ MORE SUN STORIESDream Team managers have rarely had to worry about the viability of Man City players in relation to the club’s form in recent years but three defeats on the spin has set tongues wagging.It will be interesting to see to what extent gaffers abandon the likes of Haaland, Lewis and Gvardiol during the international break if Gameweek 11 also ends badly.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More