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      Man City 3 Feyenoord 3: Pep left scratching his head as he blows 3-0 lead for first time EVER and extends nightmare run

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      ON the plus side – at least the run of five straight defeats is over.But the slump goes on for Manchester City as they somehow blew a three goal lead by conceding three goals in 14 minutes to leave Pep Guardiola black and blue.Manchester City’s threw a three goal lead away to draw 3-3 with FeyenoordPep Guardiola was left with his head in his hands and remains winless in six games after his side collapsed in the final stagesGuardiola’s head looked to have suffered more than most during the second-half collapseThe scratches were clear as he admitted City’s performance was ‘hard to swallow’Erling Haaland looked shell-shocked at full-time at the EtihadFeyenoord scored THREE in the last 14 minutes amid defensive mistakes for CityErling Haaland scored his 45th Champions League goal to open the scoringIlkay Gundogan’s deflected volley doubled City’s lead after half-timeHaaland tapped home his 46th Champions League goalThe manager was left with striking red marks all over his head at the end – no doubt a result of it spending much of the calamitous second half in the beleaguered Spaniard’s hands. City are the first team in Uefa Champions League history to be leading a match by three goals as late as the 75th minute and fail to go on to win.It leaves their European hopes in serious peril with games at Juventus and Paris Saint Germain still to come – as they sit 15th in the competition’s standings.But where does it leave their season with a huge trip to Liverpool looming on Sunday?READ MORE ON MAN CITYIt looked like normal service was resumed as they took a three goal lead in the 53rd minute – thanks to two goals from Erling Haaland.Somehow though they let it slip as the Dutch side came storming back and grabbed an astonishing equaliser a minute from time.It was Bernardo Silva who said City were in a dark place after they were beaten at Sporting Lisbon earlier this month.Guardiola didn’t agree then – but they have lost twice more since, including a 4-0 hammering by Spurs last Saturday.Most read in Champions LeagueKevin De Bruyne admitted it has been “chaotic” with all their problems.But it has now got that little bit darker.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere were flashes of the City we have come to know over recent seasons though – but also of how fragile their confidence has become in their dismal run.With tricky games still to come, this was one City simply had to win.Glum Pep Guardiola says Man City ‘cannot deny reality’ after slipping to FIFTH defeat in a rowIt is the kind of European tie they have normally made light work of in recent years but these are not normal times for Pep Guardiola’s men.A run of five straight defeats – across three different competitions – made it the worst run of the Catalan’s managerial career.In fact it was 2006 last time a City team last went on a six-match losing streak – back in the days when Stuart Pearce was in charge.Early on they looked in determined mood and came close to going ahead as Haaland’s flick header hit the base of the post before Timon Wellenreuther clawed away the reboundA volley from Jack Grealish looked destined for the net but hit the back of team-mate Phil Foden and ballooned over the bar.Foden almost made amends with a low shot that was pushed around the post by Wellenreuther at full stretch.The home side were in full control and should have been ahead by more before a triple change in the 60th minute.City fans were starting to worry they have seen this script before.Hadj Moussa brought one back for the visitors in the 75th minuteIt marked a historic night for FeynoordGuardiola’s side travel to Anfield eight points behind Liverpool on SundayBrian Priske said beforehand he was worried about a backlash from the English champions but they had held firm.And their first decent chance of the night came when Igor Paixao got through but fluffed his attempt to chip Ederson.Back at the other end Dutch defender Nathan Ake came close as his header from a Grealish corner drifted just wide.Haaland was denied by a last ditch tackle from David Hancko but from the resulting corner he went down under challenge by Quinten Timber.The Romanian ref pointed to the spot and there was even some suggestion it was given for a handball.Whichever way, it looked a soft one but apparently there was not enough to suggest a clear and obvious error.City’s top scorer – who missed his last spot-kick in Lisbon earlier this month – was made to wait but looked confident as he sent Wellenreuther the wrong way.That’s 16 for the season already for the Norwegian – and people say he has been struggling recently.Josko Gvardiol’s error led to the visitors first goal in the 75th minuteYet as Guardiola said on Monday – with hardly anyone else chipping in, where would they be without Haaland’s goals?It’s now 51 goal involvements for Haaland – 46 goals and five assists – in just 44 games in his favourite competition.That lifted some of the tension that was building around the Etihad and Matheus Nunes went close as his effort was deflected into the side netting.The resulting corner was only half cleared and Ilkay Gundogan’s 20 yard shot was deflected past his own keeper by Hancko.It might not have gone in without the defender’s help but a bit of good fortune was just what the German needed.City’s treble winning skipper has found it difficult since returning to the Etihad after a year in Barcelona but that will do his confidence no harm.Jack Grealish was inches away from making it 4-3 in the final minuteAnd three minutes later, the tie appeared to be over as Nunes burst clear down the right and sent over a low cross that a stretching Haaland turned in.Having reached his half century in the first half, he had now made a start towards the next one. You could see the confidence returning to the home side and now it seemed just a question of how many they would score.But Josko Gvardiol gifted the visitors a way back in as his lazy pass back to the keeper did not have the legs to reach Ederson.Anis Hadj Moussa nipped in and went round the keeper to give the Dutch a bit of hope.And they were dreaming of a famous comeback as Gvardiol again gave the ball away to put the visitors on the attack.Jordan Lotomba’s cross somehow squeezed between Ederson and the post and sub Santiago Giminez chested it over the line.Grealish started his first City game since the beginning of OctoberPhil Foden had his fine strike brilliantly kept out by Timon Wellenreuther inside 22 minutesNow it was panic stations and as Paixao got in ahead of Ederson who had dashed out of goal.He then kept his cool and crossed for Hancko to head home at the back post. A truly astonishing ending.Alan Shearer believes the draw could be WORSE for morale than City’s recent five consecutive defeats.It’s the first time Guardiola – whose head went down at 3-1 – failed to win a game from 3-0 up in his managerial career.And the first time City have not won from 3-0 up since 1989 against Bournemouth.Speaking after the game, a shell-shocked Guardiola said: “I don’t need to say anything to (the players), they know it perfectly.”It’s so difficult to swallow right now, the game was good, we scored three, we could have scored more, but in the end we give it away, we are not stable enough.”What can you do? Rest one or two days and prepare for Anfield.”Asked how he will lift the squad for the massive trip to Liverpool on Sunday, he added: “I have to, it’s my job.”Some City fans booed at the end, but Guardiola wasn’t angry with them.He said: “Last game against Tottenham, the 0-4, they were there, they support us, they applause. They are disappointed of course, we understand it.”Amazon pundit Shearer though was left fearing for the all-conquering Spaniard after this unprecendented slump.He said: “This could spell disaster for Guardiola. I can’t believe the decision making at the end of that game.”They looked light, they looked weak, they looked frail.”You cannot give the opposition a chance, give them hope, and that’s exactly what they did.READ MORE SUN STORIES”With two minutes to go they tried to take a quick free-kick. Why?Their game management was awful. It’s been a disaster for them.”City head to Prem leaders Liverpool on Sunday looking rather shaky. More

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      Arsenal player ratings: Martin Odegaard runs the show but poor defending from Riccardo Calafiori blows clean sheet

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      ARSENAL put in a sublime away performance to beat Sporting 5-1.The Gunners dominated the first 45 minutes and were excellent as the Portuguese powerhouses failed to lay a glove on them.Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring but then fadedCredit: GettyKai Havertz poked home and was good throughoutCredit: GettyMartin Odegaard ran the show and was a class aboveCredit: GettyGabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel were amongst the goals in a brilliant first-half from Mikel Arteta’s side.But Sporting upped it after the break and got a goal back – only for Arsenal to show their class and manage the game well as Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard put the tie to bed.Here is how SunSport rated the Arsenal players’ performances.David Raya – 6READ MORE ON ARSENALDid not have much to do besides a save from Morten Hjulmund. Good distribution and catches from crosses.Jurrien Timber – 8A great low cross into the box for Arsenal’s opener. Very solid at right-back all game.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWilliam Saliba – 7Dealt with Viktor Gyokeres well. Did not get drawn into fouling him and held his ground before timing the tackle well.Inside Arsenal’s new £300m+ stadium plans with futuristic Emirates project set to dwarf Spurs groundGabriel – 8Scored his trademark back-post crashing goal from a corner. A great leap and powerful header once again. Defended Gyokeres by being physical and on the front foot against him.But the tactic led to giving away a cheap free-kick in a dangerous area that went unpunished. Riccardo Calafiori – 5Sporting attacked a lot down Arsenal’s left in the first-half and Francisco Trincao caused him a few issues.Lost his man and ended up on the deck as Goncalo Inacio headed in from a corner. Thomas Partey – 8A sensational ball over the top of the Sporting defence to put Saka through on goal for the second.Was a real calming influence in possession.Declan Rice – 6His first game back from injury. Was perhaps the reason why his display was not as good as usual and was taken off early. Fantastic delivery for the corner.Martin Odegaard – 9Pulls the strings for the Gunners and has the ability to pick passes that carve open defences from the edge of the box, particularly combining well with Saka.Such a huge difference between performances with and without him in the team. Absolutely incredible.Bukayo Saka – 8Simply brilliant. A constant threat down the right as always, twisting and turning defenders inside out. His penalty was exceptional and came at a time when Arsenal were a little up against it. Whipped into the inside side netting.Kai Havertz – 8Was in the right place at the right time for the goal. Intelligent runs and movement from him as he often dropped deep to receive the ball. Gabriel Martinelli – 7Was incredibly lively in the opening period, working hard defensively and causing Sporting a problem with his directness. Good movement for the goal, going on the blind side of defender Geovany Quenda.But Martinelli faded and did very little after a positive start. Subs:Leandro Trossard (for Martinelli, 70 mins) – 7Scored the fifth goal. Another in the right place as the ball dropped.Mikel Merino (for Rice, 70 minutes) – 7Assured cameo in midfield.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Calafiori, 78 minutes) – 6Calm on the ball after coming on. Ethan Nwaneri (for Odegaard, 78 minutes) – 6Oozes class and came close to scoring.READ MORE SUN STORIESJakub Kiwior (for Gabriel, 84 minutes) – 5Got done by the pace of Gyokeres in the latter stages. More

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      Sporting 1 Arsenal 5: Gunners run riot in Champions League and become first to beat Portuguese club in 90 mins this term

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      RAMPANT Arsenal handed Sporting Lisbon a Champions League humbling – and even taunted their star striker Viktor Gyokeres by nicking his celebration.The Gunners produced one of their best European away-day displays in recent memory with three goals inside 45 minutes out in Lisbon via Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel.Arsenal ran riot with a convincing win over SportingCredit: GettyBukayo Saka grabbed yet another goal and an assistCredit: RexWith Sporting on their knees, Brazilian defender Gabriel scored the third with a header on the brink of half-time before pulling out Gyokeres’ trademark ‘mask’ routine. The audacity.It is a sign of the confidence and the swagger running back through this Arsenal team, back at full-strength with injuries behind them, producing a performance that should make their rivals in this competition take note.Even when Sporting rallied with Goncalo Inacio’s 47th-minute header, Mikel Arteta’s men were ruthless in their response through Bukayo Saka’s 65th-minute penalty and Leandro Trossard’s late addition.Gyokeres – a man who has been scouted by the North Londoners on numerous occasions – came into this contest as one of the continent’s most feared goal-getters – 24 in 17 so far this term for Sporting.Three of them came in a 4-1 battering of Manchester City under manager Ruben Amorim – now at Manchester United – at the Estadio Jose Alvalade earlier this month.But the 26-year-old comes away from this one with more questions than answers by his name. Up against centre-back duo William Saliba and Gabriel, it really was men against boys at times.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Sporting fans showed off their impressive singing voices well into the opening minute of the match with their translated rendition of Frank Sinatra’s ‘My Way’.But those dulcet tones soon turned to jeers as Arsenal did things their way, piling on some early pressure and getting under the skins of the Sporting players.Arsenal player ratings vs SportingAfter a needless altercation that floored Havertz before a throw-in, Ousmane Diomande picked up a fourth-minute yellow card.And three minutes later, from another throw-in, the opener.It was a brilliantly intricate move, one that involved Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber – the latter squaring it for Martinelli and the easiest of tap-ins.Arteta punched the air. The perfect start he craved from his team, one that had previously gone four European away days without finding the net.Sporting mounted a response, but big Swede Gyokeres was being marked superbly by the meat and two veg pairing of Saliba and Gabriel.He may be one of the most prolific marksmen on the continent right now, but in testing himself against a world-class defensive duo, Gyokeres was coming up severely short.Out-thought, out-muscled, dominated.He spent most of the first half skulking around like a stroppy youngster who had just had his ball nicked off him by the bigger boys.His mood worsened thanks to some more elegant Arsenal intricacy.Partey lofted a chipped pass over the Sporting back line for Saka to latch on to, poking through the legs of goalkeeper Franco Israel.Another empty-net finish, this time for Havertz, leaving Sporting stunned. A team who had won 17 of their opening 19 games in all competitions this term were being ripped to shreds.The Sporting fans then decided to use up the leftovers from Bonfire Night from the stands to give everyone within a five-mile radius the shock of a lifetime.It did little to wake up their beloved Sporting, however. A banner also emerged that read: “The Lion’s heart.” This performance had very little of that. The visitors were the ones roaring.And the hosts had little to no answers for the onslaught Arsenal were consistently conjuring.Gabriel Martinelli gave the Gunners the perfect startCredit: GettyThe Brazilian was all smiles as he did his cheeky celebrationCredit: APKai Havertz also tapped in early onCredit: ReutersGabriel powered home a header from a cornerCredit: GettyHeading into the break, Arteta would have wanted another goal to show for their complete and utter control. He soon got it.Rice took his time in whipping in the corner, to the disgust of the whistling home end, but when he did, it was only ever destined for the head of Gabriel.When done right, that sort of routine is unstoppable, but Sporting’s marking was non-existent.Inside 45 minutes, Arsenal had doubled their Champions League campaign tally – while Gyokeres’ chances of adding to his five already in this competition looked bleak.After Gabriel cheekily used the Swedish international’s linked-finger celebration and the half-time whistle went, Gyokeres angrily launched the ball from his own half into an empty net.Less than two minutes into the second half, Sporting scored for real.David Raya was forced into his first meaningful save from a Hidemasa Morita strike, yet he was helpless to stop Inacio from flicking on from the resulting corner.Sporting fans cranked up the volume, only to watch Arsenal turn it back on with Diomande cutting down Odegaard in the box, getting Saka on the scoresheet from 12 yards.READ MORE SUN STORIESTwo subs combined for the fifth – Mikel Merino’s punt parried on to the head of Trossard.Five games and three wins down in this new format. Arsenal are rediscovering their form at just the right time.Saka fired in from the penalty spotCredit: ReutersLeandro Trossard made no mistake with his simple headerCredit: ReutersMartin Odegaard was at his purring best for Mikel Arteta’s sideCredit: GettyViktor Gyokeres was not given a sniff by the Arsenal defendersCredit: GettySaka collected the player of the match awardCredit: GettySporting fans set off fireworks during the first halfCredit: GettySupporters also set off flares and smoke bombsCredit: EPAArsenal ratings vs SportingDavid Raya – 6Did not have much to do besides a save from Morten Hjulmund. Good distribution and catches from crosses.Jurrien Timber – 8A great low cross into the box for Arsenal’s opener. Very solid at right-back all game.William Saliba – 7Dealt with Viktor Gyokeres well. Did not get drawn into fouling him and held his ground before timing the tackle well.Gabriel – 8Scored his trademark back-post crashing goal from a corner. A great leap and powerful header once again. Riccardo Calafiori – 5Lost his man and ended up on the deck as Goncalo Inacio headed in from a corner. Thomas Partey – 8A sensational ball over the top of the Sporting defence to put Saka through on goal for the second.Declan Rice – 6His first game back from injury. Was perhaps the reason why his display was not as good as usual and was taken off early. Martin Odegaard – 9Pulls the strings for the Gunners and has the ability to pick passes that carve open defences from the edge of the box, particularly combining well with Saka.Such a huge difference between performances with and without him in the team. Absolutely incredible.Bukayo Saka – 8Simply brilliant. A constant threat down the right as always, twisting and turning defenders inside out. His penalty was exceptional and came at a time when Arsenal were a little up against it.Kai Havertz – 8Was in the right place at the right time for the goal. Intelligent runs and movement from him as he often dropped deep to receive the ball. Gabriel Martinelli – 7Was incredibly lively in the opening period, working hard defensively and causing Sporting a problem with his directness. Good movement for the goal.But Martinelli faded and did very little after that. More

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      Fireworks explode over Arsenal keeper David Raya’s head during Sporting clash in shocking safety breach

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      FIREWORKS exploded right above David Raya in shocking scenes during Arsenal’s Champions League clash at Sporting.The Gunners rocketeded into an early 2-0 lead thanks to goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz.Sporting fans set off fireworks over David Raya’s headCredit: ReutersUltras also lit green and white smoke bombsCredit: GettyFlares lit up the home end at the Estadio Jose AlvaladeCredit: APThe pyrotechnics went off after Arsenal went 2-0 upCredit: RexDavid Raya had not been threatened by Viktor Gyokeres or any of the Sporting players.But on 25 minutes, various fireworks, flares and smoke bombs were set off over the Arsenal penalty area.The pyrotechnics were not shown by the TNT Sport cameras but commentator Darren Fletcher referenced them.And he was surprised the referee did not stop play and take the two teams off the field.READ MORE ON ARSENALVideos quickly circulated on social media of the fireworks.The clips showed the explosives being launched from the stand behind Raya and flashing into bursts of light.Another revealed the magnitude of the green and white smoke wafting across the pitch. Within minutes, clouds covered the pitch in Lisbon.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne supporter said: “Fireworks and flares set off aimed at Raya and the back four. That’s gotta be a ban surely.”However, jubilant Arsenal fans inside the ground chanted: “We want more fireworks,” as they watched their side put on a spectacular performance. SunSport has contacted Uefa for comment but it is likely the Portuguese club could land in hot water with the authorities over the safety breach.Martinelli turned home with just seven minutes on the clock.And Havertz doubled the visitors’ lead on 22 minutes, tapping in after fine work from Thomas Partey and Bukayo Saka.Then Gabriel made it 3-0 with the final touch of the first half, thumping in yet another header from a dangerous inswinging Declan Rice corner. However, Sporting pulled one back immediately after the break through Goncalo Inacio. Saka, though, restored Arsenal’s three-goal lead from the penalty spot on 65 minutes before sub Leandro Trossard completed the 5-1 rout with an easy rebound header.The referee decided not to stop play despite the safety concernsCredit: AFPThe Portuguese club could be in trouble with UefaCredit: EPATrails of smoke poured down on the Arsenal penalty areaCredit: RexThe cloud hovered over the pitchCredit: TNT Sports More

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      Sporting 1 Arsenal 5 LIVE RESULT: Arteta’s side THRASH Portuguese champions with Saka and Havertz amongst the goals

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      ARSENAL thrashed Sporting Lisbon 5-1 in their Champions League clash tonight. Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard all scored for Mikel Arteta’s side, while Goncalo Inacio bagged for the hosts. Kick off time: 8pm GMTTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: discovery+FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Gunners need to put run togetherHaving slipped behind leaders Liverpool, it is important that Arsenal can put a run of form together over the festive period.With the games coming thick and fast, Arteta has the chance to put pressure on their rivals.With the two sides above them playing each other this weekend, victory at West Ham is a must.Copy linkCopiedOdegaard leads by exampleMartin Odegaard is the spine of this Arsenal team.Without him, they look lost and lack a cutting edge.The Norwegian playmaker was on form again this evening and makes Mikel Arteta’s side tick.As long as they keep him fit, the sky is the limit for The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedChampions League full-time scoresSlovan Bratislava 2-3 AC MilanSparta Prague 0-6 Atletico MadridBarcelona 3-0 BrestBayer Leverkusen 5-0 Red Bull SalzburgBayern Munich 1-0 PSGInter Milan 1-0 RB LeipzigMan City 3-3 FeyenoordSporting 1-5 ArsenalYoung Boys 1-6 AtalantaCopy linkCopiedFT: Man City 3-3 FeyenoordHow about this for a result.Despite being 3-0 up, Man City concede three goals in fourteen minutes to make it six games without a win for Pep Guardiola’s side.Next up, a trip to Anfield.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 1-5 ArsenalIt was a clinical display from Mikel Arteta’s side this evening.The stats suggest there was not much between the two teams but this was a match that The Gunners controlled.Victory puts them seventh in the Champions League table.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies in LisbonOne of the all-time great European performances from Arsenal here. Pretty much a complete performance, totally dominating away from home with a swagger to boot.Gabriel mimicking Viktor Gyokeres’ ‘mask’ celebration as it went to 3-0 before half-time just sums up the confidence running through Arsenal once more after a tricky run of form.Are… are Arsenal back? Time will tell.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 1-5 ArsenalIt is all over in Lisbon.A comprehensive victory for The Gunners.One to forget for the Sporting fans.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-3 Feyenoord89. Wow. just wow.Man City seemed to have clawed a draw from the jaws of victory here.Hancko scores for the visitors to level things up after being 3-0 down.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedSporting 1-5 Arsenal89. Arteta will be more than happy with this result.On paper this seemed like a tricky fixture.Saka almost adds another but Israel gets down to make the save.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMan City 3-2 Feyenoord82. Well this has changed the atmosphere somewhat.Gimenez scores to really pile the pressure on out of form Man City.The game seemed to be done but now we have a game on our hands.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-5 Arsenal83. Merino shoots from the edge of the box and as the ball swerves in the air, the keeper parries it back out into the middle of the goal.It means a simple finish for Trossard who heads into an empty net.Sporting have been dreadful defensively, it makes you wonder the standard of the Portuguese league if these are their champions.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedBayer Leverkusen 5-0 Red Bull Salzburg79. Aleix Garcia puts the icing on the cake for the Germans.This has been a very one-sided game but certainly what Leverkusen needed after their defeat at Anfield.They have put the Austrians to the sword this evening.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-1 Feyenoord77. No chance of a clean sheet for Pep’s side.Hadj Moussa converts from close range to give the visitors a slight glimmer of hope in this game.If they can add another it will certainly be a nervy finish at The Etihad.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal75. Sporting a create a couple of chances in succession.In the first instance, Raya gets down well to make a good save in the bottom corner after being unsighted until late.Trincao then tries a shot from distance but it takes a big deflection and just loops over the bar with Raya at full-stretch.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal70. Arteta has the chance to rotate his squad now.Martinelli and Rice are the players to make way.They are replaced by Trossard and Merino.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBarcelona 2-0 Brest69. Dani Olmo has doubled the lead for the Spanish outfit.It is always a dangerous scoreline when you only have a slender lead.The second goal should see Flick’s side through to victory.Copy linkCopiedBayer Leverkusen 4-0 Red Bull Salzburg61. With just under half an hour remaining, the German champions are turning on the style.Schick adds a fourth for Alonso’s side.It could be a long evening for the Austrian side.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal65. Odegaard is brought down by Diomande and the referee immediately points to the spot.Saka steps up and buries it in the bottom corner of the goal.That should calm some Arsenal nerves now.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedPenalty to ArsenalCopy linkCopiedYoung Boys 1-5 Atalanta60. This has turned into a stroll in the park now.The Italians are dominating the game and look like scoring every time they come forward.It could be damage limitation time for the Swiss side now.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-0 Feyenoord58. Blip? What blip?Erling Haaland scores again to put this game to bed.If only they could play Dutch teams every week, there would be no five consecutive losses then.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-3 Arsenal56. The atmosphere in the ground is totally different now.Raya is booked for timewasting and the home fans are letting the Arsenal players know what they think whenever they take their time with throw-ins.Another goal from Sporting would really put the cat amongst the pigeons. Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-0 Feyenoord53. Man City look set to put their dreadful run to an end.Ilkay Gundogan has scored a second goal for the Premier League champions.Pep Guardiola will want his side to turn the screw now and get themselves a big win to restore some confidence.Credit: PACopy linkCopied More

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      How Liverpool replace Mo Salah – the five best options to succeed the record-breaking Egyptian King at Anfield

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      MO Salah is irreplaceable at Liverpool – but so were Kevin Keegan, Fernando Torres and Roberto Firmino.Salah is going to leave Anfield one day and if that day is soon, the Reds urgently need to find a player or players who can match the Egyptian winger’s incredible attacking contribution.Baring his soul – Mohamed Salah’s complaint about a lack of contract offer has Liverpool fans in a panicCredit: APWhen Keegan moved to Hamburg in 1977, Liverpool signed Kenny Dalglish from Celtic and the super Scot became a club legend as a player and manager.On the same transfer deadline day that Fernando Torres left for Chelsea for £50m, the Reds brought in Luis Suarez for £22.8 from Ajax.But the jury is still out on whether Darwin Nunez, who cost an initial £64m, will spearhead the club to the same level of achievement as previous No 9 Firmino.And finding someone to step into the shoes of Salah, Liverpool’s record Premier League and Champions League goalscorer, is arguably the greatest challenge Kop bosses have ever faced. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSalah’s contract situation puts his current employers in a tough situation.Chief executive of football Michael Edwards and director of football Richard Hughes will be doing their best to find a way to keep their main man at the club beyond next summer, when his existing contract expires.But regardless of the outcome of those negotiations, they will also have been working on a succession plan.Here SunSport looks at five leading pretenders to the throne of the Egyptian King.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMOHAMMED KUDUS – West HamThe Hammers’ left-footed Ghanaian international, 24, is probably the closest thing in the Premier League to a potential like-for-like replacement for Salah. Liverpool were sniffing around in the summer and are known to rate Kudus highly, although his numbers this season suffer badly from a five-game suspension. But reports of a release clause of £85m don’t help his cause when there may be better value elsewhere in the market.JOHAN BAKAYOKO – PSV EindhovenLeft-footed right winger? Check. Well-known to Arne Slot? Absolutely, after playing a big role in PSV dethroning Slot’s Feyenoord as Dutch champions. And an exciting young talent with the potential to become a superstar? At 21 and already a Belgium international, very much so. Bakayoko ticks a lot of boxes, including a contract that runs out in less than two years. PSV’s fee demands would determine how much of a gamble he is.KARIM-DAVID ADEYEMI – Borussia DortmundThe Reds have been keeping an eye on Adeyemi for a long time, since even before he joined Red Bull Salzburg as a 16 year old. After showing only flashes of his potential in his first two seasons at Dortmund, the Germany international, 22, really hit the ground running in this campaign before suffering an injury that has kept him out since October. His stats are miles off Salah’s – but so were Salah’s before he came to Liverpool.BRYAN MBEUMO – BrentfordThe least sexy option but could the versatile Cameroon international, 25, be the best? There are good reasons why Arsenal have also been linked with Mbeumo. He is tucked in just behind Erling Haaland and Salah this season in the race for the Golden Boot with eight goals, already almost matching his best Premier League tally. Would he get even better in a more front-foot team? With his contract up in 2026, it is a tempting punt.OMAR MARMOUSH – Eintracht FrankfurtWho better to replace the Egyptian King than his countryman, especially given the red-hot form he is in so far this season? READ MORE SUN STORIESWith 11 goals and seven assists in 11 Bundesliga matches, Marmoush is one of European football’s ’s hottest properties. Not being an out-and-out winger should not be a deal-breaker for a coach like Slot. But the price might be if competition for the 25 year old’s services proves really fierce. More

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      Champions League giants announce plans for 60,000-seater ‘world’s best stadium’ with site on racecourse identified

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      A CHAMPIONS LEAGUE giant has announced plans for a new 60,000-seater stadium.Paris Saint-Germain could be set to leave the iconic Parc des Princes for a “truly great stadium”.The club currently play at the Parc des Princes in Paris but the city Government will not let them buy itCredit: ReutersNasser Al-Khelaifi wants the club to play in a more modern stadiumCredit: SplashOne option could be to build a stadium on the Saint Cloud RacecourseCredit: AlamyThe Ligue 1 champions have looked at three sites that the club could move to.This includes the Saint-Cloud racecourse, but this option could be complicated due to the limited resources available to manage fans.It is less than three miles from PSG’s current home.The club has also looked at the Montigny-le-Bretonneux, which is a commune in the south-western suburbs of Paris.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe move there would be more significant as it is 15 miles away.The furthest site away from the Parc des Princes is the land in Poissy of Stellantis.This would be further afoot for PSG at 18 miles away.Club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has insisted that PSG is “behind” their European rivals.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”We are Paris Saint-Germain. A football club [that]… we need to a truly great stadium.”The best stadium in the world. We need to for Financial Fair Play. Former top flight stadium left abandoned and overgrown just two years after club last played a game there”All the other European clubs have constructed bigger, more modern stadiums. We are behind everyone.”Al-Khelaifi has also revealed that the Paris city government will not let the club purchase the rented Parc des Princes.He added: “It is the city [Government] that has already decided that for us”They won’t let PSG buy the Parc des Princes, which is rented.”AI’s impression of what the new PSG stadium could look likePSG has played at the Parc des Princes since 1973, one year after the current version of the ground was opened.A move to a 60,000-capacity ground would allow nearly 12,000 more fans into games compared to the max 48,583 at the current ground.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Sporting vs Arsenal prediction: Best free betting tips, odds and Champions League preview

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      ARSENAL face a tricky test in the Champions League on Tuesday night when they head to Portugal to face Sporting.SunSport betting experts have previewed the European contest and selected the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesSporting vs Arsenal previewThis has the makings of being a Champions League classic.The Gunners head for Sporting having got back to winning ways to beat high-flying Nottingham Forest in the Premier League last weekend.That 3-0 victory came after three games without a win and with Kai Havertz and Declan Rice rested, too. But this looks a much different proposition over in Portugal with Sporting flying.The Portuguese side are flying in Liga Portugal, already six points clear and head into this clash in second in the Champions League table.They won 6-0 at the weekend and previously had thumped Manchester City 4-1 in the last match day of this competition – though everyone is doing that these days.They’ve also notched a staggering 19 goals in their last four games.The loss of Ruben Amorim to Manchester United was a difficult one for the club but there appears no ill-effect as things stand and this looks a mightily difficult trip for Arsenal, who are down in 12th in the table.Sporting vs Arsenal latest oddsOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Sporting vs Arsenal prediction and betting tipsHome heroicsThey’ve won their last nine home games – including both in this competition – and Sporting will be a tough nut to crack.The Gunners will arrive at almost full strength but have been a bit stop-start themselves in the last six weeks or so.Could be a real European tussle but Sporting can continue this incredible run.Sporting win and BTTS at 9/2 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREMain manRight now, he’s without doubt the hottest property when it comes to centre forwards in European football.Viktor Gyokeres has scored in eight of his last nine appearances for club and country, scoring a sensational 17 goals in that period.That includes four goals TWICE and a hat trick too, including over Man City. Viktor Gyokeres shot on target in both halves at 9/5 with William Hill – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. 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Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More