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      Fans say Courtois is ‘best keeper in history’ as Real Madrid star pulls off unbelievable point-blank save from Haaland

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      THIBAUT COURTOIS produced a sensational save to deny Erling Haaland during the first half of tonight’s Manchester City vs Real Madrid clash.The Norwegian striker appeared a certainty to score when he redirected a header back across goal.

      Thibaut Courtois made a sensational save to deny Erling HaalandCredit: AP
      Haaland appeared a certainty to score from close rangeCredit: Reuters
      Courtois somehow adjusted his body to get over to it, stretching his right arm and getting a strong hand to the ball and tip it wide.
      The Belgian was congratulated by his pumped up team-mates for the stop, with fans on Twitter left stunned by his quick reactions – and “WHAT A SAVE” immediately trending.
      One wrote: “Outrageous save that!”
      While a second tweeted: “Unreal save, could watch that all day.”
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      Pundit Jamie Carragher added: “Courtois v Man City at the moment! What a save.”
      Another fan gushed: “Greatest Keeper in the world.”
      Despite Courtois’ heroics, Real Madrid fell behind on 23 minutes, less than two minutes after the former Chelsea star’s save.
      Bernardo Silva struck City into the lead after a sweeping move.
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      The Portuguese ace then nodded his second home on 37 minutes to give City a 3-1 aggregate lead.
      Carragher enjoyed the match in the company of his CBS Sports colleagues.
      Popular host Kate Abdo, as well as pundits Carra, Micah Richards and Thierry Henry, have had fans in stitches with their coverage all season.
      And tonight was no different – with Richards getting soaked by the City sprinklers before attempting to do Abdo’s job and deliberately getting Carragher’s name wrong.
      Guardiola’s men went on to provide a complete masterclass, winning 4-0 on the night via a Bernardo Silva double, Eder Militao own goal and Julian Alvarez strike.
      The CBS Sports gang had fans in stitches before the matchCredit: Reuters More

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      CBS coverage in chaos as Micah Richards is drenched by sprinklers, does Kate Abdo’s job and gets Carragher’s name WRONG

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      CBS SPORTS’ coverage of Manchester City’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid tonight got off to a chaotic start.Fans have become obsessed with CBS’ broadcasts this season due to the chemistry between popular host Kate Abdo and pundits Micah Richards, Jamie Carragher and Thierry Henry.

      The sprinkler rotated towards the CBS crewCredit: CBS SPORTS
      Richards, 34, was too slow to get out of the wayCredit: CBS SPORTS
      Popular host Kate Abdo was mocked by RichardsCredit: CBS SPORTS
      The quartet are always up for some banter at each other’s expenses, and tonight was no different.
      Usually confined to a studio, tonight the gang are in attendance at the Etihad.
      While stood pitchside just seconds before going live on air, Richards was drenched by City’s sprinklers.
      The former right-back was immediately mocked by Abdo, but was ready with a comeback.
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      As Abdo began introducing the show, Richards interjected, instead introducing a montage featuring a series of unfortunate gaffes she has made in recent weeks.
      These included nearly CHOKING while speaking directly to camera, as well as calling CBS “Fox Sports” by mistake.
      Richards then took it upon himself to introduce his fellow pundits… calling Carragher “Jamie Redknapp” to mock Abdo for getting the name of their channel wrong.
      The 34-year-old was getting revenge for Abdo’s regular joke about his lack of Champions League winners’ medals compared to Henry and Carra.
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      CBS’ coverage has become popular around the globeCredit: Reuters
      Richards had a go at being the presenterCredit: CBS SPORTS
      Getting her own back for Richards’ mocking, Abdo coolly introduced footage of the ex-City star getting soaked.
      As the sprinkler rotated towards the crew, Abdo, Carragher and Henry all dodged out the way.
      Richards was caught dawdling, however, and found himself drenched.
      The pundit deliberately got Jamie Carragher’s name wrongCredit: CBS SPORTS
      Kate Abdo and the gang were also at last night’s Milan derbyCredit: Getty More

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      Rio Ferdinand delivers brutal snub to Carragher and jokes ‘why the red face?’ amid feud as BT Sport & CBS teams collide

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      RIO FERDINAND joked “why the red face” as he hilariously snubbed Jamie Carragher on the touchline at the Etihad.The rival former centre-backs have been in a feud in recent days after Carra labelled Ferdinand a “clown” live on air last week.
      Rio Ferdinand snubbed Jamie Carragher amid their ‘clown’ feudCredit: https://twitter.com/rioferdy5
      Ferdinand gave Thierry Henry a big hugCredit: https://twitter.com/rioferdy5
      Carragher stood awkwardly on the side of the Etihad pitchCredit: https://twitter.com/rioferdy5
      They disagreed on a penalty decision in the Champions League clash between AC Milan and Inter Milan.
      Ferdinand admitted he was baffled by the comment and warned he will demand an explanation next time they meet – especially because Carragher has always shown him love, including carrying his rival’s boots on England duty.
      That next time happened to be tonight ahead of the Manchester City vs Real Madrid second leg.
      Ferdinand was there for BT Sport while Carragher was covering the game for CBS Sports.
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      And the ex-Manchester United man posted a video of the two sets of pundits saying hello to each other on Wednesday evening.
      Ferdinand started off by shaking hands with Micah Richards, even though the former right-back was on the phone, and then walked straight past Carra to give Thierry Henry a big hug.
      That left the pundits, including Patrice Evra in a bright-red suit, in hysterics.
      Ferdinand did, though, turn back and acknowledge the Liverpool legend as they shared a handshake and a laugh together.
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      The Old Trafford hero tweeted the video and wrote: “Why the red face!!?? @Carra23”
      And fans were loving the banter from Ferdinand as he posted the clip online.
      One said: “Left hanging in brutal fashion.”
      Another wrote: “His face is literally turned red.”
      A third commented: “Class.”
      And a final user quipped: “Full on beetroot.”
      The pair did share a laugh and a handshakeCredit: https://twitter.com/rioferdy5
      Patrice Evra was on hand to provide plenty of colourCredit: https://twitter.com/rioferdy5 More

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      Champions League FIX claims after ‘Uefa Twitter blunder put Real Madrid in the final’ BEFORE they even play Man City

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      UEFA faced unwanted “fix” claims after a Twitter blunder appeared to suggest Real Madrid would face Inter Milan in the Champions League final.The Spanish giants took on Manchester City in tonight’s semi-final second leg at the Etihad.
      Uefa posted a tweet listing Real Madrid as Inter Milan’s Champions League final opponents
      Man City host Real Madrid in the Champions League this eveningCredit: Getty
      The tie was in the balance after the pair drew 1-1 in Madrid last week.
      But fans were left scratching their heads when a Uefa tweet offering the opportunity to win tickets to the final listed Real Madrid and Inter as the teams taking part.
      One Twitter user instantly responded: “Rigged.”
      While a second huffed: “Nothing new with Madrid.”
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      And a third even joked: “Help is coming.”
      Another added: “What bunglers these from UEFA.”
      The official Uefa Twitter account also appeared to post a tweet listing City and Inter as finalists, suggesting that their Twitter admin had accidentally jumped the gun on posting pre-prepared tweets.
      Pep Guardiola is aiming to win his third Champions League and first since 2011 in his Barcelona days.
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      Uefa then made the same gaffe with Manchester City as the finalists
      Ahead of the match, fans pointed to his habit of selecting quirky tactics in the Champions League by suggesting he was “at it again” when pictures emerged of Jack Grealish playing in goal during training.
      Prior to tonight’s second leg, Guardiola suggested that his personal experience could help get City over the line against perennial European champions Madrid.
      He said: “I have been here many times.
      “My legacy is exceptional already. I have told the players to enjoy the moment – we are incredibly lucky to be here.
      “It’s in our hands, it depends on us, we don’t have to do something exceptional – just win one game to reach the final.
      “I have an incredible feeling about them. Whatever happens – thank you so much to them for bringing me and the City fans here again.”
      Guardiola’s men went on to provide a complete masterclass, winning 4-0 on the night via a Bernardo Silva double, Eder Militao own goal and Julian Alvarez strike.
      Pep Guardiola spoke ahead of Man City’s Champions League semi-final second legCredit: AFP More

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      Man City vs Real Madrid LIVE: Pep’s side aim to overcome Champions League kings to boost treble hopes – stream, TV

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      MANCHESTER CITY will host Real Madrid at the Etihad TONIGHT as Pep Guardiola eyes an historic treble this season.The two sides met in the Spanish capital last week for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.
      Vinicus Jr scored the opener at the BernabeuCredit: EPA
      Kevin de Bruyne equalised for Man City against Real MadridCredit: GETTY

      Vinicius Jr opened the scoring on the 36-minute mark with a thunderbolt that flew past Ederson.
      Kevin de Bruyne replied with a screamer of his own to put City on level terms heading into the second leg at the Etihad.
      Pep Guardiola’s side are in pole position to claim the Premier League title following rivals Arsenal’s defeat to Brighton on Sunday.
      CITY vs REAL – BETTING TIPS, PREVIEW AND FREE BETS
      While Real Madrid will have to fight for second with Atletico in La Liga after rivals Barcelona lifted the trophy on the weekend.
      The winner will face Inter Milan in June’s final.
      Lautaro Martinez scored in the second-leg last night against AC Milan to seal a 3-0 aggregate win for Inter.
      Many believe City and Real to be the two best club sides in world football.
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      And they are sure to put on a spectacle at the Etihad.
      Speaking ahead of the clash, City boss Guardiola said: “Now it’s like a play-off. We can defend better in some departments and maybe we can attack a little differently.
      “Alaba and Rudiger were so close to Erling, so there were very few spaces to find. Maybe we can adjust a couple of things.”
      Real gaffer Ancelotti declared: “We had good control of the [first leg]. When City had lots of possession we were in control defensively, then when we started to play we caused difficulties.”
      When is Man City vs Real Madrid?

      Man City vs Real Madrid will take place TODAY, Wednesday, May 17th.
      Kick off will be at 8pm BST.
      The Etihad will play host.

      What channel is Man City vs Real Madrid on and can it be live streamed?

      Man City vs Real Madrid will be broadcast live on BT Sport 1.
      BT Sport customers can live stream all the action via the BT Sport app which is free to download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action from the Etihad.

      Team news
      Pep Guardiola should be able to call upon midfield general Rodri even though he was withdrawn late on from the Everton game with a knock.
      Key players such as Kevin de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Jack Grealish all started from the bench on the weekend.
      Defender Nathan Ake should return to the squad after a spell on the sideline with a thigh injury.
      But Guardiola is likely to keep faith with Kyle Walker in his back three to deal with Vinicius Jr’s pace.

      Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga suffered an injury scare in Real’s game against Getafe on the weekend but has since been deemed OK to play.
      Eder Militao will return to the squad after missing the first leg due to suspension and is likely to replace Antonio Rudiger in the XI.
      Ferland Mendy is also fit after returning from injury.
      Carlo Ancelotti was able to rest key players such as Karim Benzema, Luka Modric and Vinicius Jr on Saturday.
      Odds
      Match result:

      Man City – 4/7
      Draw – 16/5
      Real Madrid – 9/2

      To qualify:

      Man City – 2/7
      Real Madrid – 12/5

      *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes and are correct at the time of publication. More

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      Fans say Inter reporter Eva Gini’s pics should be ‘illegal’ as she poses in revealing outfit in Champions League semi

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      INTER MILAN reporter Eva Gini wowed fans as she stood pitch side for the Champions League semi-final second leg against AC Milan.A solitary Lautaro Martinez goal sealed a 1-0 win on the night, and saw Inter through to the Champions League final 3-0 on aggregate.
      Eva Gini wowed fans as she stood pitch side at San SiroCredit: Instagram @evagini
      Eva works for Inter Milan’s in-house TV channelCredit: Instagram @evagini
      Eva has previously worked for Gazzetta dello Sport and MediasetCredit: Instagram @evagini
      She often wows fans with her social media snapsCredit: Instagram @evagini
      And Eva was working the game for Inter’s in-house TV channel.
      The 30-year-old wowed in a tight black dress as she stood on the hallowed San Siro turf.
      She was joined by former Inter and Italy World Cup winning defender Marco Matterazzi.
      But fans were left gushing over Eva as she posted the snaps to her 160,000 Instagram followers.
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      One even said her snaps should be “illegal”.
      Meanwhile, another wrote: “Always beautiful.”
      A third added: “As beautiful as Lautaro’s goal.”
      And a fourth said: “Stunning.”
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      Glamorous Eva has previously been dubbed a “true goddess” by her adoring fans.
      In the past, she has worked for the likes of Gazzetta dello Sport and Mediaset.
      Eva has 160,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @evagini
      She is regularly travelling to exotic locationsCredit: Instagram @evagini
      Her followers previously branded her a “true goddess”Credit: Instagram @evagini More

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      How many Dream Team points (and Star Man awards) would Vinicius Junior have earned this season?

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      Manchester City take on Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final at the Etihad tonight.Not only will the winner be heavy favourites to lift the famous trophy, the result will have a significant impact on Dream Team’s landscape.
      If Pep Guardiola’s side book their place in Istanbul then that fixture will conclude the 2022/23 campaign and with City already having qualified for the FA Cup final, it’s clear gaffers should back them to the hilt in the coming weeks.
      The biggest threat to City’s quest for European glory is the man who scored a brilliant goal against them at the Bernabeu, Vinicius Junior.
      Kyle Walker will have his hands full again this eveningCredit: GETTY
      The fleet-footed winger has cemented his status as one of the world’s best players this season and in true Real Madrid fashion he’s generally saved his absolute best form for the Champions League.
      Here at Dream Team HQ, we thought it would be fun to figure out how many Dream Team points Vinicius would have earned in 2022/23 had he been eligible.
      Our ratings providers WhoScored also keep track of events in Spain via their stats-based algorithm and so we can use their data to generate a near-perfect estimate.
      The Brazilian has scored ten goals in La Liga, seven in the Champions League, and three in the Copa del Rey for a total of 20, so that’s 100 points straight off the bat.
      Next up we need to factor in his assists, which includes converted penalties won for the purposes of this exercise.
      Vinicius has provided ten assists in the league, five in Europe, and four in the cup – 19 in all competitions results in a further 38 points.
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      Dream Team gaffers will know that an assist all but guarantees a player a 7+ match rating and the 22-year-old’s dazzling dribbling will also have earned him plenty of bonus points – any regular viewers of Los Blancos will know the level of persistent threat he provides.
      Ten Star Man awards?Credit: GETTY
      Vinicius would have earned 35 ratings of 7+ so far this season for an additional 105 points – only Bruno Fernandes (£6.7m) has earned more points from match ratings (123) in reality.
      Here’s where things get really interesting, WhoScored’s stats give us an estimate of ten Star Man awards in all competitions, the exact same number Fernandes has at the top of the metric – adding another 50 points to the Brazil international’s hypothetical total.
      Before we arrive at our final total we have to deduct points for any yellow/red cards.
      Vinicius hasn’t been sent off this term but he’s received a whopping 16 bookings, more cards than any eligible Dream Team asset has been shown.
      Taking every element into account, Real Madrid’s No20 would banked 277 Dream Team points this season!
      To put that into context, he’d be third in the overall rankings, just ahead of Mohamed Salah (£9.1m) and Harry Kane (£9.5m) but trailing Marcus Rashford (£7.2m) and a long way behind runaway leader Erling Haaland (£10.4m), whose total of 427 points continues to astound.
      Perhaps one day in the future, Dream Team bosses will be able to select Vinicius Junior for real… More

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      The all-time Champions League best XI revealed by ChatGPT – but fans brand AI app ‘MAD’

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      THE all-time Champions League XI has been revealed by ChatGPT.But fans are not happy, with some even branding the AI app “mad.”
      Cristiano Ronaldo has been selected in ChatGPT’s all-time Champions League XICredit: AP
      Lionel Messi has also made the cut, but some fans are angry others have been snubbedCredit: AP:Associated Press
      ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot, has gone with a 4-3-3 formation favoured by multiple Champions League-winning managers including Carlo Ancelotti.
      And in goal is Bayern Munich star Manuel Neuer, who has won the competition twice.
      At right-back is AC Milan legend Cafu, who scooped the cup once.
      Real Madrid icon Roberto Carlos is at left-back with three Champions Leagues to his name.
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      And at centre-back are Franz Beckenbauer and Paolo Maldini, who boast an incredible eight European Cups between them.
      A midfield three is anchored by Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez, who won four Champions Leagues — as did club and international partner Andres Iniesta.
      Zinedine Zidane is also in the midfield after winning it once as a player before sealing three in a row as Real Madrid manager.
      Up front, five-time winner Karim Benzema leads the line.
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      He is joined by former Real pal Cristiano Ronaldo, also a five-time winner.
      And the final piece in the jigsaw is none other than Lionel Messi, who won the Champions League four times with Barcelona.
      However, some fans are upset that other big names were left off the list.
      One cried: “ChatGPT is mad! Remove Benzema and replace him with Luis Suarez, Samuel Eto’o or Didier Drogba.
      “Dani Alves is by far better than Cafu.”
      Another declared: “What is Zidane doing there over a five-time winner in Modric?”
      One noted: “Lewandowski over Benzema and Marcelo over Roberto Carlos.”
      Another added: “You’ve got to give respect to Real players. Casemiro, Carvajal, Ramos, Kroos.” More