Champions League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Dortmund 0 Man City 0: Haaland has miserable night on return to old club and Mahrez misses yet ANOTHER penalty

      by

      THERE was a half-time hooking for homecoming hero Erling Haaland. There was a fourth penalty miss of the year from Riyad Mahrez – a 25th Manchester City failure from the spot during Pep Guardiola’s reign. 
      Mahrez missed from the penalty spot as City were held to a goalless drawCredit: Reuters
      Kobel denied Mahrez with a good stop as he guessed the right way and saved wellCredit: Getty
      Haaland could not score on his return to Dortmund before being taken off at half-timeCredit: Getty
      Haaland was subbed at the break after suffering a cut on his elbowCredit: Getty
      Moukoko had Dortmund’s best chance of the match but it was easily saved by EdersonCredit: AP
      Dortmund held their own against the Premier League championsCredit: Getty
      And a third straight away game without a goal for the Premier League champions.
      This match did not mean the world to Manchester City – as they were already assured of progress to the Champions League knock-out stages and a point confirms top spot. 
      But anyone who felt that City without Haaland would simply steamroller their way through England and Europe this season is having to think again. 
      Here at European football’s greatest noise factory, the place Haaland left this summer for the Etihad, City were outplayed for long spells and their Norwegian big-game hunter was muzzled by his old mates before Guardiola substituted him at the break. 
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Dortmund’s experienced World Cup-winning skipper Mats Hummels enjoyed the chance to keep Haaland on an unusually tight leash for the 45 minutes Guardiola gave him. 
      That substitution would not have been a punishment for Haaland, Guardiola is managing his minutes, aware that he suffered from hamstring injuries while at Dortmund last season. 
      But he isn’t infallible or invincible, as it may have seemed at times during his early-season rampage. 
      Mahrez’s second-half penalty was well saved by Gregor Kobel and it was a rare sight on goal for a strong City side against a Dortmund team which has hardly been setting the Bundesliga alight this term.    
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Dortmund are through to the knock-out stages thanks to this draw and nobody will fancy a visit to the atmospheric old bearpit of the Westfalenstadion. 
      City, who have been scoring bagfuls and boast a 100 per cent record at home this season, have not been looking like world-beaters on their travels. 
      They will head to Leicester on Saturday desperate to put that right and head back to the Premier League summit, at least temporarily. 
      There was only shrill whistling from Dortmund’s vast Yellow Wall when Haaland emerged for the pre-match kickabout – like 25,000 angry bees voicing their displeasure. 
      Over the PA system, they played You’ll Never Walk Alone – Dortmund’s anthem as well as Liverpool’s, although many of City’s fans probably thought the hosts were on a wind-up.
      Guardiola gave a debut to his German back-up keeper Stefan Ortega and John Stones was handed a first start since limping out of England’s clash with Germany last month – though at right-back, where Gareth Southgate would probably still prefer him to Trent Alexander-Arnold. 
      It was a thunderous start from Dortmund, on and off the pitch, the great wall of sound from the Sudtribune hammering away at the eardrums and seeming to propel the home team forward. 
      This is some place to watch football, probably the best in Europe. What a place for Bellingham to learn his trade, what a support base for the young Brummie to be adored by. And they do. 
      For a while City were run ragged – Youssooufa Moukoko drilled wide, Julian Brandt was denied by a fine Stones challenge, Joao Cancelo was skinned by Karim Adeyemi, conceding a free-kick which Brandt pinged wide.    
      Then Adeyemi forced a scooped save from Ortega.  
      He had one attempt on goal but did not manage any efforts on target
      It was loud but they only really cranked the amp up to eleven when Mats Hummels robbed Haaland with a sliding tackle, then blocked off a Riyad Mahrez cross, aimed at the Norwegia, with a diving headed clearance.  
      Emre Can soon clattered Haaland as he bore down on goal and the Wall showed its former hero no sympathy.  
      Dortmund should have scored when Adeyemi’s low cross picked out Moukoko but the 17-year-old shot wide.
      When Nathan Ake headed over from a Phil Foden free-kick in injury-time, it was as close as City came to first-half goal. 
      Haaland hadn’t really had a sniff and then, as the players emerged, his number went up – Bernardo Silva coming on and Julian Alvarez switching from the wing to centre-forward. 
      Bellingham was driving Dortmund on from midfield, with some surging runs, but Foden skied a decent opportunity from a Bernardo cut-back. 
      Bernardo was exquisite cunning was making a real difference for City and it was his pass which split the Dortmund defence, allowing Foden to cut back.
      Ilkay Gundogan miskicked but Mahrez was brought down by a clumsy challenge from Can.
      It was a surprise to see the Algerian retain spot-kick duties after his recent miss in Copenhagen but his effort was saved by Gregor Kobel, the Swiss keeper diving low to his right and sending the Yellow Wall berserk.
      Alvarez had a snap-shot well saved by Kobel but Foden took a horribly heavy touch when he should have snaffled the rebound. 
      Read More on The Sun
      And that was that for City.
      It didn’t really matter but there were signs of vulnerability to cheer those who felt they might sweep the board this season.
      Haaland was taken off at half-time after just 13 touches in 45 minutes More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Kirby set for Chelsea return and Green hails ‘mentally tough’ goalkeeper Berger ahead of Blues’ clash with Vllaznia

      by

      FRAN KIRBY has given Chelsea a major fitness boost with the forward set to return to action following a spell out with illness.The Blues star could be in line to feature for the team in their Champions League duel with Vllaznia.
      Fran Kirby could be set to make her first appearance for Chelsea since their 3-1 defeat of West Ham in SeptemberCredit: Getty
      Kirby and her Blues team-mates will play Vllaznia in their second Champions League group stage gameCredit: Getty
      Chelsea will face the Albanian champions at Kingsmeadow tomorrow night in their first home match in this year’s tournament.
      While the Blues will be without Jelena Cankovic, with the midfielder missing their last three games due to injury, Kirby is likely to be included in the club’s squad.
      The club’s all-time leading goal scorer has made three top-tier appearances so far this term netting three times for the WSL champs.
      General manager Paul Green said: “Jelena’s injury hasn’t settled down as quickly as we’d hoped so she won’t be available.
      ” Fran has been back in training for the last couple of days, so she’ll be one addition to the squad. 
      “She is a quality player and to have her back is fantastic and gives everybody a boost.
      Read More Sports Stories
      “She has been out with illness, but we’re delighted she’s now available.
      “We look forward to seeing her on Wednesday night and hopefully staying healthy for the whole season.”
      Chelsea’s second Group A game is likely to see Blues goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger make her sixth appearance across all competitions this term.
      Green hailed the German international’s recent displays between the sticks two months on from her announcing the recurrence of thyroid cancer.
      Since then, Berger has kept three clean sheets in five games.
      He added: “The way she’s handled herself in this period and such difficult circumstances is a real credit to her.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      “She’s immensely mentally tough to cope with the cancer.
      “She’s a real inspiration to all her team-mates and somebody to really look up to with the way that she has gone about her business at such a difficult time.
      “We’re delighted with her coming back to full health and fitness on the pitch.
      “She has shown that in her performances since going back in the goal.”
      Chelsea’s game against Vllaznia’s comes six days after the nine-time Albanian National Women’s Champions fell to a 2-0 away loss to Real Madrid.
      Their visitors, who are playing the Champions League for the first time in their 12-year history have five American players in their squad.
      And the team are underdogs in a group that includes Paris Saint-Germain in addition to Madrid and the title winners of England.
      Green expects Chelsea will face a side prepared to sit deep.
      Chelsea first home Champions League game comes six days after their away win at Paris Saint-GermainCredit: Getty
      He said: “We can’t take anything for granted.
      We need to perform at our best level to be able to break down their block and get the goals that are ultimately going to win us the game.
      “They’re in the competition on their own merits and we’ve got to get the job done.
      Should the Blues progress to knockout the phase they.
      Chelsea vs Vllaznia can be watched live from 8:00 pm on DAZN’S Uefa Women’s Champions League channel on Wednesday 26 October More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans convinced Glenn Hoddle dropped C-bomb live on BT Sport before he quickly corrects himself

      by

      FOOTBALL fans are convinced Glen Hoddle hilariously dropped the C-bomb live on BT Sport, before correcting himself.The Tottenham legend, 64, was describing the feel-good atmosphere around Chelsea since Graham Potter’s side have gone on a lengthy unbeaten run.
      Viewers believe Hoddle swore live on BT SportCredit: TWITTER / FARLEYCLAUS
      And viewers watching the coverage think the pundit said “happy c**t” when trying to say “happy camp”.
      Hoddle did swiftly correct himself, but those on social media were straight on the supposed mishap.
      One person said: “It’s a happy c**t – @GlennHoddle, whoops!”
      While another added: “Let’s not pretend we didn’t hear that Glenn Hoddle.”
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      A third said: “Glenn Hoddle casually dropping the C bomb live on BT😂.”
      And a fourth added: “I’m not the only one that heard @GlennHoddlesay Happy C**T after the Chelsea game, am I? 😂😂😂.”
      Hoddle was a part of the panel for Chelsea’s trip to RB Salzburg in the Champions League.
      And Potter’s men booked their place in the last 16 with a 2-1 win away in Austria.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      Mateo Kovacic opened the scoring midway through the first half with a superb left-footed strike from the edge of the area.
      Junior Adamu pegged the Blues back four minutes into the second period when he tapped home Maximilian Wober’s inch-perfect cross.
      But Kai Havertz won the game for the visitors in the 64th minute, bending a sumptuous effort into the top corner. More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea verdict: Graham Potter is the Blues’ new Tinkerman as he uses SIXTH new formation vs Salzburg – to great success

      by

      CHELSEA have a new Tinkerman at the helm.Former Blues boss Claudio Ranieri – who coached at Stamford Bridge from 2000 to 2004 – earned himself the famous nickname as a manager who loved to tweak his tactics and personnel.
      Potter is yet to lose as Chelsea boss after 10 games in chargeCredit: AP
      But now Graham Potter is following in his footsteps.
      After just nine games in charge of the Blues, the 47-year-old Englishman has already started SIX different formations.
      He kicked off the home game against RB Salzburg six weeks ago with a 3-5-2, before testing out a 4-2-2-2 against Crystal Palace and a 3-4-2-1 against AC Milan.
      A 4-2-3-1 was then sampled in the win over Wolves, but he reverted back to a 3-4-2-1 once more for the return fixture with Milan.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      The 3-4-2-1 was maintained in the 2-0 win over Aston Villa, before a 3-5-1-1 was wheeled out during the goalless draw with Brentford.
      The bi-gamely 3-4-2-1 then reared its head once more against Manchester United at the weekend, but again Potter tinkered in Austria on Tuesday night as he lined up with a 3-4-1-2.
      And it bared fruit as goals from Mateo Kovacic and Kai Havertz earned them a deserved 2-1 win over Salzburg – three points which booked their place in the last 16.
      And despite all of these nuance tactical changes from Potter, Chelsea are still yet to lose under the former Brighton man.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      It’s now nine games without defeat for Potter – who has won six and drawn three since taking over from Thomas Tuchel at the beginning of September.
      And he has already had to face adversity since coming in.
      Kalidou Koulibaly recently became the latest player to be ruled out of crucial games through injury – although he is expected back for the weekend.
      But Potter has also had to deal with the absence of N’Golo Kante, Wesley Fofana and Reece James.
      And first choice keeper Edouard Mendy was also sidelined for a period of time.
      His defence has been decimated, yet they have conceded just four goals since he took charge.
      Their next block of fixtures ahead of the World Cup will undoubtedly be the real litmus test for that back line.
      A trip to Potter’s old stomping ground, Brighton, is coming up at the weekend.
      And Chelsea then face Dinamo Zagreb – who beat them under Tuchel – before Premier League games against Arsenal and Newcastle are sandwiched either side of a Carabao Cup clash with Manchester City.
      But the west London outfit will head into those games with the knowledge their key players are thriving.
      Thiago Silva is providing the leadership and stability, with Kovacic looking sensational in the middle of the park.
      It is only up front where Potter may still have some reservations.
      Pierre Emerick Aubameyang failed to score for a fourth successive match on Tuesday night – missing a fine chance in the process.
      And with Havertz, Raheem Sterling, Hakim Ziyech and Mason Mount only registering eight goals between them in all competitions, that could present an issue down the line.
      Read More on The Sun
      Potter will be hoping Armando Broja can push Aubameyang for a starting place – which in turn could get the best out of the former Arsenal skipper.
      Nevertheless, Chelsea fans’ belief in their manager will only be growing as Potterball begins to take its many shapes. More

    • 250 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      RB Salzburg 1 Chelsea 2: Havertz and Kovacic score stunners to send Potter’s side into last-16 with game to spare

      by

      A PAIR of screamers by Mateo Kovacic and Kai Havertz sent Chelsea roaring into the Champions League knockout stages.Salzburg goalkeeper Philipp Kohn and poor finishing threatened to deny the Blues the win they needed to seal qualification with a game to spare.
      Havertz scored the winner from distanceCredit: Getty
      Chelsea secured their place in the knockoutsCredit: EPA
      Kovacic got the opening goal of the gameCredit: EPA
      Adamu got the equaliser for SalzburgCredit: AFP
      And when Thiago Silva’s error allowed Junior Adamu to equalise early in the second, the Austrian champions were dreaming of a big win of their own.
      But Havertz provided a timely reminder of his class with a wonderful goal that ultimately decided a compelling game.
      Chelsea are still yet to lose under Graham Potter and this was one of their best performances of his short reign.
      Not least because this result ended Salzburg’s own long unbeaten run.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Bayern Munich and AC Milan were among the teams who had paid Champions League visits to Mozart’s birthplace and been unable to break a non-losing streak at home for the Austrian champions that stood at 40 matches in all competitions.
      Potter, who seems to have as many tactical plans as the great composer had concertos, shuffled his pack again.
      But in the end it was two moments of individual brilliance that won the game.
      Chelsea were a bit pants until underwear model Kovacic opened his legs and showed his class.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      On Saturday Kovacic gifted his shirt and socks to fans and left the Stamford Bridge pitch on Saturday in just socks, boots and briefs,much to the shock of TV pundit Peter Schmeichel.
      This time he stunned Salzburg with a beautiful shot from the edge of the box that would, with better finishing, have set the Blues on the way to a more comfortable victory.
      They started well enough.
      Inside two minutes, former Brighton defender Bernardo showed why Potter was happy to let him leave the Amex in 2021 and return for a second spell at Salzburg.
      Potter remains unbeaten as Chelsea bossCredit: Getty
      The Brazilian under-nutted his header back and Havertz was entitled to go for the ball. Kohn rushed out to save the day and took a knee to his head for his trouble.
      But the visitors soon became predictable and slow until a stroke of fortune and a slice of inspiration changed the game.
      Maximilian Wober challenged Havertz in the box and was unlucky to see the ball go straight to Kovacic.
      But the Croatian’s finish from 18 yards, hit first time with the outside of his left foot, was sensational.
      Salzburg put Chelsea under pressureCredit: AFP
      Moments later, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang headed a corner on to Wober and the Salzburg left back was grateful to see Kohn scoop the ball away.
      Chelsea were suddenly playing with a bit more verve and should have been three-up before the break.
      First, a lovely move ended with Aubameyang hesitating slightly and Kohn rushing off his line to smother the shot.
      Then Havertz headed a Conor Gallagher cross straight at the Salzburg ‘keeper, who almost allowed the weakness of the finish to bamboozle him.
      Chelsea could top the group depending on Tuesday’s result between AC Milan and Dinamo ZagrebCredit: Getty
      At the other end, Kepa Arrizabalaga had not made a challenging save as the home side wasted their rare openings with poor shooting.
      There was just time for Kohn to take another blow to the head, this time from Aubameyang, before making another save from the same player. 
      His team was relieved to hear the half-time bell only one behind on the scorecard.
      The home fans were less than happy two minutes into the second half when Kovacic’s accidental handball was – rightly – adjudged unworthy of a penalty. 
      Silva had an awkward landing after contesting a headerCredit: AFP
      But they were ecstatic soon afterwards. Thiago Silva stepped out to make a challenge, failed to win the ball and so left a big gap for Junior Adamu to meet Wober’s lovely cross.
      1-1, game on.
      Kohn made another save, from his own defender Strahinja Pavlovic, then Adamu cleared a Jorginho header off the line.
      But when Havertz received a pass from Christian Pulisic, he curled a gorgeous shot into the top corner where not even the Salzburg ‘keeper could stop it.
      Chalobah impressed again for the BluesCredit: Getty
      Salzburg were not done, and Kepa made his first good stop of the night when he denied substitute Benjamin Sesko.
      Then the Spaniard misjudged a cross and Silva intercepted Pavlovic’s goalbound header.
      It was exciting stuff. Pulisic could have killed the game off, but fluffed his shot. Arrizbalaga made a decent late stop from Amar Dedic and then flapped at another cross.
      Salzburg piled on the pressure and the Chelsea ‘keeper lost his cool after Sesko fouled Silva.
      Read More on The Sun
      But the home side could not find a third equaliser across the two games in the six minutes of stoppage time.
      So a goal from Havertz proved decisive, just as it did in the 2021 final of this competition. And deservedly so.
      Chelsea ended Salzburg’s unbelievable run at home More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea ratings: Kovacic produces midfield masterclass but Aubameyang is well off the pace in Salzburg win

      by

      CHELSEA booked their place in the last 16 of the Champions League with a 2-1 win over RB Salzburg in Austria.Mateo Kovacic gave the Blues the lead in the 23rd minute when his sumptuous left-footed strike from the edge of the area flew into the top corner.
      Kovacic opened the scoring with a wonderful strike midway through the first halfCredit: Reuters
      Adamu levelled for the hosts four minutes into the second halfCredit: Reuters
      Havertz curled home a wonderful winner for ChelseaCredit: EPA
      Salzburg levelled things up shortly after the break as whipped a wonderful ball in for Junior Adamu to tap home.
      But Kai Havertz whipped a wonderful 20-yard winner into the top corner in the 64th minute to give Chelsea all three points.
      The result sees Graham Potter’s men move four points clear of Salzburg with just one round of fixtures remaining.
      And they will be confirmed as group winners providing AC Milan avoid defeat against Dinamo Zagreb.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Here is how SunSport’s Dylan Terry saw the performances of the Chelsea players.
      KEPA ARRIZABALAGA – 7/10
      Wasn’t really stretched in the first 45 but made a comfortable save to keep out Salzburg’s only shot on target.
      Could do little about Adamu’s classy finish for the Salzburg goal.
      Then made a string of smart stops in the closing stages to ensure Chelsea kept hold of their slender lead.
      TREVOH CHALOBAH – 8
      Looked composed and assured on the ball as he linked well with Pulisic down the right when the back three split.
      Made a few goal-saving headed clearances in the second half as Chelsea were put under pressure from set-pieces.
      THIAGO SILVA – 8
      A class act at the heart of Chelsea’s back three. Positioned himself brilliantly to mop up.
      His experience typified by his last-gasp clearance, sweeping up behind Kepa when the keeper failed to claim a high ball.
      Silva was brilliant yet again at the heart of Chelsea’s back lineCredit: Getty
      MARC CUCURELLA – 7
      Has been harshly substituted in each of his last three games, but made sure that wasn’t going to be the case on this occasion as the Spaniard produced a mistake-free display.
      He also looked to be the centre-back who tried to start the attacks and engaged with the midfield.
      CHRISTIAN PULISIC – 6
      Was energetic and vibrant without really offering any sort of end product.
      Raced through with the score level at 1-1, but the ball wouldn’t quite come down for the American.
      JORGINHO – 7
      Started a brilliantly slick Chelsea move that carved Salzburg open, only for Aubameyang to be thwarted by Kohn.
      Came within a whisker of putting Chelsea 2-1 up with a great header but it was cleared off the line in the nick of time.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      MATEO KOVACIC – 9
      Fired a delicious opener into the top corner with his “weaker” left foot after a superb start to the game from the Croatian midfielder.
      Ran the middle of the park and looked a class above everyone around him.
      Made way for Loftus-Cheek with 22 minutes of the 90 remaining.
      Kovacic produced a sensational performance for Chelsea on Tuesday nightCredit: Getty
      CONOR GALLAGHER – 6
      Clipped an inch-perfect cross in for Havertz whose header was too close to the keeper.
      His running and energy cannot be sniffed at, but that final pass is something he still seems to be missing at the top level.
      RAHEEM STERLING – 6
      Just nine days on from Potter’s failed wingback experiment in the win over Aston Villa, Sterling was asked to play there again.
      And it’s safe to say he still looks exposed defensively when playing that role, but going forward he is a superb outlet – linking up well with the front two when drifting inside.
      KAI HAVERTZ – 8
      Should have doubled Chelsea’s lead nine minutes before half-time but his close-range header was tame enough for Kohn to gather.
      Then netted the goal of the night with a breathtaking effort which clipped the underside of the bar on its way into the top corner. Majestic.
      PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG – 4
      His deflected header was brilliantly kept out by Kohn, before he wasted a gilt-edged chance in what would have been a breathtaking team goal.
      These are the sort of games you would be expecting Aubameyang to find the back of the net in.
      Now without a goal in four matches in all competitions.
      Aubameyang missed a host of chances against SalzburgCredit: Reuters
      SUBSTITUTES
      RUBEN LOFTUS-CHEEK (FOR KOVACIC, 68) – 6
      Doesn’t provide the same level of quality as Kovacic but is a real physical presence in midfield – something which should not be underestimated when trying to see out a game late on.
      CESAR AZPILICUETA (FOR PULISIC, 75) – 6
      His leadership was evident in the closing stages as he barked orders and organised Chelsea’s defence when Salzburg put pressure on them from set-pieces.
      ARMANDO BROJA (FOR AUBAMEYANG, 75) – 6
      Looked isolated up front as Chelsea attempted to cling onto their lead late on.
      Read More on The Sun
      HAKIM ZIYECH (FOR GALLAGHER, 88) – N/A
      MASON MOUNT (FOR STERLING, 88) – N/A
      Unused subs: Bettinelli, Mendy, Azpilicueta, Chilwell, Zakaria, Chukwuemeka, Mount, Ziyech, Broja. More

    • 263 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Borussia Dortmund 0 Man City 0 LIVE: Mahrez has penalty SAVED as Champions League game finishes in bore draw – updates

      by

      ERLING HAALAND’S return to Borussia Dortmund ended in tame fashion as the game finished 0-0 at Signal Iduna Park. The Norwegian striker was subbed at halftime and Riyad Mahrez had a penalty saved in the second period before the game petered out in drab circumstances.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      That’s all from Dortmund!
      Manchester City picked up a goalless Champions League draw against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park.
      That means City win Group G and Dortmund follow them to the Last 16 in second place.
      Erling Haaland returned to the Westfalenstadion but failed to impress and was taken off at half-time with manager Pep Guardiola claiming he had a fever.
      The reigning Premier League champions came closest to a goal when Riyad Mahrez’s penalty was blocked by Gregor Kobel on 58 minutes.
      That’s all from us here at SunSport, have a great night!
      Credit: GETTY
      Jude Bellingham reacts
      Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham praised his team-mates for qualifying to the Champions League knockouts.
      Bellingham told BT Sport: “It’s good for us. Defensively we were really good, not many teams keep clean sheets against [Manchester] City, especially this season with all the quality they’ve got. To do that is really promising for us.
      “We could have gone for it a bit more, I think we had chances to win the game, obviously they missed a penalty and Greg [Kobel] made a huge save.
      “There’s different things to take away from the game, but overall we’re happy, because we were here to get to the next round and we’ve done it”
      Credit: GETTY
      Guardiola on penalties
      Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola admitted his team has a problem with penalties and doesn’t know who will take the next one after Riyad Mahrez’s miss.
      Guardiola told BT Sport: “We’ll see. Of course it’s a problem. Since I’ve been here we’ve missed 24, 25 penalties, most of them in Champions League.
      “It’s too much. I always admire the courage, to take responsibility to do it, but we miss a lot of penalties.
      “It’s a problem. In Copenhagen, here as well. We have to improve”
      Credit: GETTY
      Guardiola on Haaland
      Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed Erling Haaland had a fever and Joao Cancelo suffered from a knock, which is why he took them off at half-time.
      Guardiola told BT Sport: “Erling had a little bit of fever before the game. Joao [Cancelo] as well. He had a knock in his feet. He was looking tired, Joao, as well. So that’s why we changed it.”
      Guardiola added: “We played much better second half than in the first half.
      “We conceded some counter-attacks from them, they’re so fast. We suffered that our game on Saturday was so demanding, physicality and the trip and everything. We are a little tired.
      “But we achieved what we wanted, top of the group again, so really good”
      Credit: GETTY
      Wasteful Man City
      Manchester City came the closest to scoring a winner against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
      City got a penalty when Riyad Mahrez was brought down by Emre Can.
      Mahrez took the shot but Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel denied him with a fine save.
      The winger’s miss extends a rather negative streak for the Citizens.
      Since the start of the 2016-2017 campaign City have failed to score 25 penalties across all competitions, which is more than any other Premier League team
      Credit: GETTY
      Updated Champions League table
      As mentioned earlier, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund are through to the Champions League Last 16.
      City have won Group G with 11 points so far, whereas Dortmund finish second with eight.
      Sevilla have punched their ticket to the Europa League play-offs, whereas Copenhagen are knocked out of Europe.
      More below:

      Dortmund vs City stats
      Manchester City dominated 73 per cent of possession against Borussia Dortmund after a stronger showing in the second half.
      City registered a total of eight shots, three of which were on target.
      Dortmund, on the other hand, produced 11 shots, four of which were on target.
      More below:

      FT: Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      Manchester City picked up a goalless draw against Borussia Dortmund at the Signal Iduna Park.
      That means City win Group G and Dortmund follow them to the Champions League Last 16 in second place.
      Erling Haaland returned to the Westfalenstadion but failed to impress and was taken off at half-time.
      The reigning Premier League champions came closest to a goal when Riyad Mahrez’s penalty was saved by Gregor Kobel on 58 minutes
      Credit: GETTY
      FT: Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      Peep!
      That’s full-time at Dortmund!!!
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      90 Three more minutes of added time to go.
      Both teams seem really happy with the current result…
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      88 Substitution
      City boss Guardiola brings on a youngster of his own with Palmer replacing Mahrez
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      87 Yellow card
      Hummels becomes the first Dortmund player to be booked after a rough challenge on Alvarez
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      87 Substitution
      Dortmund boss Terzic throws in youngster Papadopoulos, who replaces Reyna for the final minutes
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      85 Both teams seems content with a goalless draw as we approach full-time.
      Dortmund seal wualification while City finish top of the group
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      84 Chance
      City create some danger as Mahrez tees Gundogan off but his shot goes wide
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      82 Substitution
      Dortmund boss Terzic responds with a double change as Modeste and Wolf come on for Moukoko and Hazard respectively
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      81 Substitution
      City boss Guardiola brings on Grealish, who replaces Foden for the final few minutes
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      80 Of course City want to make sure they will go through top of the table.
      As it stands, they get what they want especially after DSevilla defeated Copenhagen
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      78 Tempo has seriously slowed down at Dortmund, but the hosts should be happy with it.
      As it stands, the Bundesliga giants are through to the Champions League knockouts!
      Same for Man City, obviously
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      75 Can’t help but feel like Haaland wouldn’t have missed that penalty for City.
      Could that spot-kick cost Pep Guardiola’s side…?
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      72 Substitution
      Dortmund boss Terzic makes his first change as Malen comes on for Adeyemi who put together an impressive display by dominating Cancelo
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      72 Yellow card
      Akanji is the next City player to be booked after his hand blocked Adeyemi’s shot
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      70 City are building some steam after those two missed chances.
      Dortmund have been silent up front so far…
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      67 Chance!
      City come extremely close as Mahrez taps the ball to Alvarez who shoots but Kobel makes the save.
      Foden tries to get the rebound but the Dortmund keeper gets to it first
      Dortmund 0-0 Man City
      67 Chance
      City produce their second shot on target as Stones sets Gundogan down the right but his shot from a tight angle is firmly saved by Kobel
      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      RB Salzburg 1 Chelsea 2 LIVE REACTION: Havertz’s spectacular strike sends Blues through to Champions League last 16

      by

      CHELSEA advanced to the knockout stages of the Champions League with a 2-1 win over RB Salzburg in Austria. Mateo Kovacic put the Blues 1-0 up before Adamu equalised for the home side. But Kai Havertz’s brilliant goal won the game for Graham Potter’s side.

      TV/Live stream: BT Sport 4
      Salzburg XI: Kohn, Adamu, Seiwald, Kjaergaard, Sucic, Gourna-Douath, Pavlovic, Wober, Dedic, Okafor, Bernardo
      Chelsea XI: Kepa, Chalobah, Thiago Silva, Cucurella, Kovacic, Jorginho, Sterling, Pulisic, Gallagher, Havertz, Aubameyang

      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      That’s all from Austria
      Chelsea can put their feet up, knowing that their 2-1 win at RB Salzburg has booked their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League – and with a game to spare.
      And now you too can do the same, and enjoy the remaining Champions League games this evening that include Erling Haaland’s return to Borussia Dortmund with Manchester City.
      Thanks for joining us, and goodbye.
      New boss on Pott streak
      And on the subject of unbeaten runs, Graham Potter has made it to nine games without defeat since taking charge at Stamford Bridge.
      Credit: @OptaJoe Twitter
      Potter hails special Havertz strike
      Chelsea manager Graham Potter paid tribute to his players after they ended RB Salzburg’s 40-match unbeaten run at home with a 2-1 success in Austria.
      The game was settled by a special strike from Kai Havertz, the kind of goal that Potter admitted made his work easier when he has the players capable of such brilliance.
      It was a fantastic performance from the players, they showed real courage because of the atmosphere here and the way they’re so intense. They put you under a lot of pressure, but we controlled it quite well and attacked well. We were disappointed to only be 1-0 up at half-time. One action from them levelled it, but we responded really well, and it was a great goal from Kai. It makes my job a lot easier when they can do that.Graham PotterBT Sport
      Blues book place in knockouts
      Chelsea’s win in Austria ensures that they become the sixth team to seal their spot in the Champions League’s Round of 16.
      And if Dinamo Zagreb fail to beat AC Milan at home – a game that has just started in Croatia – then the Blues will be confirmed as Group E’s winners.
      It seems a long time ago that Graham Potter picked up the reins with Chelsea bottom of the group.
      Credit: Uefa.com
      Stats from the Red Bull Arena
      Salzburg ended the evening having had more attempts at goal than their illustrious visitors, but only managed to keep seven of their 16 on target.

      Full time – RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      For the 18th time in 19 attempts, Chelsea seal their place in the knockout stages of the Champions League – and with a game to spare too.
      A thrilling encounter was settled by Kai Havert’s stunning strike, the best of three brilliant goals in the game.
      Earlier in the second half, Junior Adamu had cancelled out Mateo Kovacic’s wonderful opener.
      RB Salzburg’s 40-match unbeaten home run is over, but the Blues go marching on under Graham Potter.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      90+5. Chelsea appear to be seeing this one out by the corner flag.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – Kepa yellow card
      90+2. Kepa takes exception to Chalobah being double-teamed and Silva being flattened once again, and rushes out to show his displeasure with Simic.
      The goalkeeper pushes the Salzburg man not once, but twice, and promptly receives a yellow card.
      Clever player from the goalkeeper to break up any momentum from the home side in stoppage time, or a completely unnecessary booking? You decide.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      90. The board goes up to signal six additional minutes of stoppage time.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      89. The noise levels inside the Red Bull Arena are up, Salzburg are pressing, and Chelsea are now hanging on.
      The home side have forced a flurry of corner, the latest that ends with Kepa making up for another missed punch by executing a diving save.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      87. Great hold-up play by Sesko on the left, matched by his eventual switch to Dedic on the right.
      The defender takes the shot on first time, but it’s comfortably held at the near post by Kepa.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – Gallagher yellow card
      86. Connor Gallagher will have to play out the final few minutes on a booking after incurring the wrath of referee Sandro Scharer.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      83. Simic leans into Thiago Silva as he rises to head clear, and creates an arc for the Brazilian to crash to the ground.
      It’s a really nasty landing for the 38-year-old, who – thankfully – looks nothing more than winded.
      There were quite a few nervous onlookers holding their breath there.

      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – RB Salzburg substitution
      82. Another change for the hosts that sees goalscorer Junior Adamu departing.
      Dijon Kameri has eight minutes plus stoppage time to show what he can do.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      81. Inside the final ten minutes, and Chelsea are now on the verge of sealing their qualification.
      They can taste the Last 16, they just need to get themselves over the line.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – RB Salzburg double substitution
      79. Now it’s the home side’s turn to introduce fresh legs.
      Andreas Ulmer and Roko Simic are on for Noah Okafor and Max Wober.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      77. It doesn’t take Azpilicueta long to showcase his trademark move: a foul on Gourna-Douath.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – Chelsea double substitution
      76. Despite that embarrassing miss with his last contribution to the game, Christian Pulisic receives a round of applause and a handshake from his manager as he’s replaced.
      On come Cesar Azpilicueta and Armando Broja with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also departing.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      74. Big chance for Pulisic!
      Havertz does ever so well to get to the touchline and pull a lovely pass back for the American 15 yards from goal.
      Pulisic winds up his left foot, and…
      …completely misses his kick.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      72. Graham Potter looks ready to make another change in order to see this game out.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea – Chelsea substitution
      70. Meanwhile, Mateo Kovacic has gone off, looking in some slight discomfort. Hopefully, it’s just precautionary.
      On comes Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      69. Salzburg go close again!
      Kepa rushes off his line to punch clear the corner, but then attempts to do so a second time when it’s played back in during the attack’s second phase.
      This time, the Chelsea goalkeeper is nowhere near it as Pavlovic gets up highest to head towards goal.
      Only the awareness of Thiago Silva, dropping back on to the line, stops Chelsea from being pegged back again.

      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      67. Sesko goes looking for another equaliser.
      The teenage striker wriggles away from his marker, turns, and cracks a low drive towards the bottom corner from 20 yards.
      It’s well saved by Kepa, pushing the strike out for a corner.
      RB Salzburg 1-2 Chelsea
      64. The game’s third sensational goal – and this one may be the best of the lot!
      Christian Pulisic does well to keep the attack alive after appearing to have run into trouble, quickly turning and laying a pass into the feet of Kai Havertz 25 yards from goal.
      What the German does next is genius. Taking one touch to open up the opportunity, he then unleashes a vicious curling left-footed effort that crashes in off the underside of the crossbar, leaving Philipp Kohn on his knees.
      Chelsea are back in front!

      Load more entries… More