More stories

  • in

    Arsenal fan Micah Richards MISSING from CBS Sports panel for crunch clash with PSG… as he parties with Gooners in Paris

    MICAH RICHARDS was MISSING from CBS Sports studio coverage of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final against PSG in Paris.However, he was not out of action, as instead of the broadcaster’s London studio, he was seen partying with Gooners fans in the French capital before the game.Micah Richards was seen in Paris enjoying the pre-match festivities ahead of PSG vs ArsenalCredit: ParamountRichards was seen chowing down on some oysters and snailsCredit: ParamountHe took photos with Arsenal and PSG fansCredit: ParamountFormer Manchester City and England defender Richards is usually seen in the studio alongside presenter Kate Scott, formerly Abdo, and pundits Thierry Henry and Jamie Carragher.But instead of prepping notes for the semi-final showdown, the Arsenal fan was seen enjoying an afternoon in France ahead of the game.CBS showed footage of Richards arriving by train before was seen chowing down on oysters and snails, though he did not seem to enjoy the former as he was seen gagging on one.He was later seen taking photos with fans from both teams who recognised him, while he even spotted Eintracht Frankfurt goalkeeper Kevin Trapp in town.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCBS famously sent Carragher to Dortmund when the German outfit hosted a semi-final last year, with the ex-Liverpool star left a little worse for wear from his boozy experience.Back in the studio, Carragher joked: “I think Paris is going to outdo Dortmund,” to which Abdo replied: “It’s a high bar, Jamie.”Carragher added: “I think if Arsenal win, he’s going big.”A later clip showed Richards celebrating with PSG fans as he was caught in the middle of a mosh pit before he pushed through the crowd to get in front of the camera.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKOnce there he declared this was their they wanted him as his adventure had been “absolutely oustanding” and was “absolutely loving it”.Richards is not the only CBS face in Paris, with pitchside reporters Peter Schmeichel and Anita Jones at the Parc des Princes.Fans hail ‘incredible’ moment Micah Richards sits on David Beckham’s lap during new show and chats to Hollywood legendThe 1999 Champions League winner Schmeichel revealed his Arsenal-supporting co-host had been incredibly nervous all day.She then revealed a gloomy stat for Arsenal which stated that only twice before had a team who had lost the first leg of a Champions League semi-final managed to go through.Schmeichel responded by explaining Ajax had been involved in both of those clashes, winning one and losing one.Jones then joked: “So that stat doesn’t come in to it? Arsenal have no chance? Essentially that’s what he’s saying, Kate we may as well go home.”Micah and I will get on the next Eurostar.”Elsewhere, Rio Ferdinand is missing from TNT Sports coverage of the match after revealing he was in hospital.The 2008 Champions League winner shared a health update from his bed, saying he was “gutted” to be missing from the event. More

  • in

    ‘Uefa should look into it’ – Watch Barcelona star get bundled over three times in FOUR SECONDS as he demands ref probe

    PEDRI has urged Uefa to investigate the referee for his performance as Barcelona were dumped out of the Champions League.The Spanish giants were knocked out of Europe’s premier competition by Inter Milan in a thrilling semi-final tie.Francesco Acerbi appeared to push Pedri down three times in four secondsCredit: TikTok @Mercedes.NinaThe Barcelona star repeatedly fell to the groundCredit: TikTok @Mercedes.NinaThe first push was in the penalty areaCredit: TikTok @Mercedes.NinaInter won the tie 7-6 on aggregate following a 4-3 win at the San Siro in the second leg on Tuesday night.Barcelona were minutes from booking their spot in the final after Raphinha put them ahead in the 87th minute.However, the Italians hit back through Francesco Acerbi before Davide Frattesi scored the winner in extra time.After the match, Pedri vented his frustration at the performance from referee Szymon Marciniak.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe claimed that the referee gave every split decision to the hosts.The midfielder claimed: “It’s not the first time this happens to us with this referee, Uefa should look into it.”Every 50-50 for them. There are things that I don’t understand and which are hard to explain.”One moment of the game that left Pedri red in the face was multiple pushes from Acerbi.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA video taken from the stands shows the defender pushing the midfielder to the ground three times in FOUR SECONDS.Marciniak awarded Inter a penalty after he was called to the screen by VAR for a foul by Pau Cubarsí on Lautaro Martinez.Inter Milan hero Frattesi drops F-bomb live on TV after win over Barcelona leaving CBS Sports studio in hystericsPedri has urged Uefa to look into referee Szymon Mariniak’s peformanceCredit: ReutersBarcelona also believed they should have been awarded a free-kick for a foul on Gerard Martín in the build-up to Acerbi’s goal.Marciniak had awarded the LaLiga giants a penalty for a foul on Lamine Yamal before VAR intervened.The Polish official was also in charge when Inter drew 3-3 with Barcelona in the Group Stage of the 2022 edition of the tournament.Barcelona manager Hansi Flick echoed Pedri’s complaints in his post-match press conference.He said: “I don’t want to talk too much about the referee, but every decision that was 50-50 went (Inter’s) way.”I am disappointed, but not with my team. They tried everything. It’s the way it is. We are out, but next year we will try again to make the fans happy.Read More on The Sun”It makes me sad. My team did an excellent job.”I don’t like talking about the referee, I’ve told him what I think, but I’m not going to say it here what I’ve said.”Hansi Flick was not happy with the Polish officialCredit: Reuters More

  • in

    Inter Milan hero Lautaro Martinez reveals he ‘sat at home crying for two days’ BEFORE Barcelona clash

    INTER MILAN hero Lautaro Martinez reveals he was sat at home crying days before the Barcelona clash.Martinez opened the scoring at the San Siro to set up a thrilling Champions League semi-final clash, which Inter won 4-3 (7-6 aggregate).Lautaro Martinez revealed he spent two days crying before the Barcelona clashThe striker opened the scoring in Inter Milan’s 4-3 winCredit: GettyMartinez was taken off in the 71st minuteCredit: RexBut the Argentine talisman was in danger of missing the second leg after feeling a problem in his leg.Martinez, 27, thanked the medical staff for their assistance in ensuring he made the game.He also revealed he had spent days crying before overcoming the issue.Martinez told Sky Italia: “I was struggling, my leg didn’t feel right. I spent two days crying at home, but I couldn’t miss tonight’s game.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I had a double session all week, I wasn’t at my best and I put a tight bandage on.“This is how I experience football, you’ve got to give your all in these games. I promised my family that I would get on the pitch today.”Martinez was taken off on 71 minutes, despite the match being delicately poised at 2-2 at the time of his substitution.The striker is now set to feature in his second Champions League final for Inter – two years after his first, which ended in a 1-0 defeat to Manchester City.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHe said of reaching the final: “I am so happy, I am so proud of Inter Milan.“I am so grateful to the fans and my family who are here today. I am so glad we are going through.”Rooney reveals sweet thing Inter star Mkhitaryan asked his old Man Utd team-mate after reaching Champions League final More

  • in

    Why is Rio Ferdinand not on commentary for TNT Sports during PSG vs Arsenal?

    RIO Ferdinand will not be a part of TNT Sports’ coverage for Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg away at PSG this evening.The Gunners are looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit following Ousmane Dembele’s strike in London last week.Rio Ferdinand will miss the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and PSGCredit: Andrew Orchard/Andrew Orchard sports photography/Alamy Live newsArsenal will be looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit as they head to Paris this weekendCredit: GettyPSG VS ARSENAL LIVE – LATEST UPDATESLes Parisiens historically do not perform well in home Champions League semi-finals, so the Gunners will be given a boost before the clash even kicks off.PSG have appeared in the competition’s final more recently than the Gunners, having been there in 2020, with Arsenal not appearing since 2006. Both sides are aiming to lift the iconic Champions League trophy for the first time in their history this season.Why is Rio Ferdinand not on commentary for PSG vs Arsenal? Rio Ferdinand confirmed via X that he will miss tonight’s match after being hospitalised.Read more Champions LeagueThe former Man Utd defender posted: “Gutted to be missing the Semi-Finals this week on @footballontnt!!”Rio Ferdinand will not be a part of TNT Sports’ coverage this eveningCredit: https://x.com/rioferdy5″Wishing the team all the best — I’ll be watching every minute from the iPad!”TNT Sports replied to the post by saying: “Get well soon, Rio.”SunSport understands his condition is not serious.Most read in Champions LeagueHow to watch PSG vs ArsenalPSG vs Arsenal is available to watch on TNT Sports 1.The match can be live streamed on discovery+.The game will start at 8pm BST.PSG currently lead the tie 1-0 after last weeks first-leg. More

  • in

    ‘At least three injured’ as violence erupts in Paris with car set alight & 20 arrested after PSG vs Arsenal game

    At least three people have reportedly injured in chaotic scenes of violence after Arsenal’s game against PSG in Paris.A car was set alight after driving into football fans celebrating Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory in the French capital.PSG fans clashed with police ahead of the matchCredit: AFPThe supporters set off fireworks outside the groundCredit: AFPRiot police tried to disperse the crowdsEntire streets were tear-gassedSupporters celebrated goals by climbing on to busesCredit: AFPHooded French youths wearing were also seen fighting with riot police on the Champs Elysée, and on nearby streets.By 2am, more than 20 people had been arrested in connection with the violence.A police source said: “The worse incident so far involved a car apparently being driven into a group of PSG fans.”At least three supporters were injured, one seriously, and others were sent flying. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A gang then chased the car, setting it on fire and leaving it to burn after they forced it to stop in a side street.”Earlier, riot police tear-gassed an entire street of fans while shots were reportedly fired prior to kick-off.The atmosphere had been building across Paris throughout the day and fans began to gather near the Parc des Princes with two hours until kick-off.But there were clashes with riot cops and videos have surfaced of police pushing PSG supporters with shields and firing tear gas.Most read in Champions LeagueChaotic scenes show fans running from the cops and covering their mouths with scarves.A French reporter claimed “entire streets were tear-gassed by police” after fireworks were let off. How Arsenal can beat PSG and reach the Champions League final Checkpoints around the stadium to stop ticket-less fans getting near to the ground were “reinforced” after the trouble.Yet there was more carnage during the game as PSG supporters swarmed the Parisian streets.Hundreds circled around a bus and some attempted to climb on to it in celebration after their side scored.Tear gas was fired and what sounded like shots were heard as objects were thrown back at cops in shocking scenes.It is not clear what the shots were fired from or if they were fireworks. JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt comes after Arsenal fans were warned to be “vigilant” in Paris amid fears of clashes with PSG’s notorious ultras.The 2,000 travelling Gunners were all given a free red and white scarf when collecting their tickets in the French capital.Though there have been concerns that wearing the scarves around the city could prove dangerous and put a “target on their back”.Arsenal fans were advised by the club to “take sensible precautions” in Paris and not visit the Auteuil suburb where the Ultras meet.A statement read: “Supporters are strongly advised to avoid the Auteuil suburb of Paris and should take note of this when travelling to the Parc des Princes on matchday.Read More on The Sun”Street crime, including pickpocketing, can take place in Paris. Supporters are advised to be vigilant, take sensible precautions and ensure they have valid travel insurance.”Supporters are strongly advised not to use line 10 on the metro system which would result in supporters exiting the metro system in Auteuil.”PSG are into the final in MunichArsenal fans were warned to be ‘vigilant’ amid fear of clashes with PSG ultrasCredit: AFPEntire streets were reportedly tear-gassed More

  • in

    Inter Milan hero Frattesi drops F-bomb live on TV after win over Barcelona leaving CBS Sports studio in hysterics

    DAVIDE FRATTESI let an F-bomb slip on live TV after his heroics in the Champions League. The Inter Milan midfielder, 25, had just scored the winning goal for the Nerazzurri against Barcelona to send the Italian side into the final in Munich.Frattesi scored the winning goal that sent Inter to the finalCredit: APAcerbi was mobbed by his jubilant team-mates after his goalCredit: GettyInter beat Barca 4-3 on the night, but were nearly sent packing by Raphinha’s dramatic strike on 87 minutes – which looked to have sent Barca to Munich after the 3-3 draw in the first leg.However, Francesco Acerbi’s equaliser in the third minute of stoppage forced extra-time..Frattesi then popped up in the 99th minute to earn Simone Inzaghi’s team a place in their second Champions League final in three years. They were defeated 1-0 by Manchester City back in 2023 thanks to Rodri’s winner.Read more footballIn a his post-match interview with CBS, Frattesi, the Italian international, left pundits Thierry Henry, Micah Richards, and Jamie Carragher in fits of laughter with his comments. Henry dished out lavish praise for the midfielder, saying: “I didn’t see a man that was nervous; I saw a guy that was composed to finish at that time, in that tie, in that game. “How did you think about doing that?” the former Arsenal legend asked from CBS’ London studio. Joining the broadcast from pitchside at the San Siro, the match-winner Frattesi hilariously responded: “I don’t know. Most read in Champions LeagueBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Maybe because I was thinking, ‘If I don’t score, I’m f***ed!”The comment had the Italian giggling, while the CBS pundits burst out laughing. Rooney reveals sweet thing Inter star Mkhitaryan asked his old Man Utd team-mate after reaching Champions League finalPresenter Kate Scott nervously looked over at the production team behind the camera in response to Frattesi’s slip of the tongue. Meanwhile, Henry lay his head in his hands on the desk to control his laughter. Inter had to do it the hard way to reach the final, despite taking a lead back to the San Siro. The hosts threw away a two-goal cushion given to them courtesy of Lautaro Martinez and Hakan Calhanoglu’s goals. Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo levelled proceedings on the night for Barca, before former Leeds United winger Raphinha stepped up to send the tie to extra time. However, it was Frattesi’s time to write the headlines, placing a neat finish into the far corner, leaving Wojciech Szczesny flat-footed in the Barca goal. More

  • in

    Rio Ferdinand in hospital and forced to miss TNT Sports coverage of PSG vs Arsenal as he posts picture from bed

    RIO FERDINAND revealed he would miss last night’s Champions League semi-final after posting a picture from his hospital bed.The former Manchester United star would have been on duty for TNT Sports for Arsenal’s trip to Paris.Rio Ferdinand missed last night’s Champions League coverage on TNT SportsCredit: AlamyFerdinand revealed on X that he was in hospitalCredit: https://x.com/rioferdy5Ferdinand was seen with a band around his wrist in the photo.Ferdinand captioned his post: “Gutted to be missing the Semi-Finals this week on @footballontnt!!””Wishing the team all the best — I’ll be watching every minute from the iPad!”TNT Sports replied to the post by saying: “Get well soon, Rio.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSunSport understands his condition is not serious.The 46-year-old is a regular feature on TNT Sports’ coverage of European football, whether on commentary or in the studio as an analyst.He is often a key part of the broadcaster’s commentary team, appearing alongside fellow pundit Ally McCoist and commentator Darren Fletcher.Ferdinand usually appears on TNT’s coverage of Man Utd games, including his former club’s stunning quarter-final win against Lyon at Old Trafford last month.Most read in FootballThey will be on TNT tonight in the second leg of their semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.Well wishers took to social media to send kind messages to the former England defender.One person said: “Get well soon Rio.”Rio Ferdinand calls out Roy Keane and Gary Neville’s takes on Man Utd vs Man City A second said: “Get well soon legend.”A third added: “Good recovery man. Take care.”Another said: “Quick recovery.”Arsenal were losing the semi-final 1-0 on aggregate after the first-leg defeat courtesy of Ousmane Dembele’s goal.And even though they were unable to turn it around, losing 2-1 in Paris and 3-1 overall, Mikel Arteta insisted his team were the best side in the competition.Mikel Arteta says Declan Rice and his Arsenal team can make history tonightCredit: Getty More

  • in

    PSG vs Arsenal LIVE SCORE: Champions League semi-final updates as Gunners look to overturn deficit and secure final spot

    ARSENAL travel to PSG for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final TONIGHT.The Gunners arrive in Paris 1-0 down on aggregate after Ousmane Dembele’s stunning early strike at the Emirates last week was enough to earn the Parisians a narrow lead.Arsenal will be hoping to avoid more European heartbreak in the French capital, 19 years on from their 2006 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona at the Stade de France.The winner of tonight’s blockbuster tie will meet Italian giants Inter Milan in the huge Munich final on May 31.Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 1 Live stream: discovery+PSG team: To follow…Arsenal team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Another omen for the GunnersIn the last four seasons, either Real Madrid have won the Champions League, or the team who knocked them out have won it.In 2021, Chelsea knocked Madrid out, and went on to win against Man City in the final.In 2022, Real Madrid beat Liverpool to win the Champions League.In 2023, Manchester City knocked out Madrid on their way to winning the competition, again in the semi-final.In 2024, Real Madrid won the Champions League.In 2025, Arsenal knocked Real Madrid out of the Champions League…Credit: Mutsu Kawamori/AFLO/Alamy Live NewsCopy linkCopiedMust be a sign…Arsenal are looking to reach the Champions League final for only the second time in their history this evening. Their previous final was a defeat to Barcelona in 2006.Fans have been pointing out some good omens, that may help the Gunners tonight…Copy linkCopiedBend it like RiceDeclan Rice was the star of the show when Arsenal knocked Real Madrid out of the Champions League quarter-final.His two stunning free-kicks put Arsenal in a position where they were essentially already through when they faced the second leg in Madrid.Alas, that did not stop him winning the man of the match award in Madrid, helping Arsenal see off Los Blancos 5-1 on aggregate.Rice has called upon what the Gunners must do ahead of the semi-final second leg.Copy linkCopiedIn the middleControversial referee Felix Zwayer will officiate the clash between PSG and Arsenal tonight.Zawyer has a history of controversy, having previously faced a six-month ban for match fixing.The referee has also previously been blasted by Jude Bellingham, and took charge of England’s Euro semi-final against Netherlands last summer. Copy linkCopiedThe main menThe big battle in attack tonight will be between Bukayo Saka and Ousmane Dembele in Paris tonight. Dembele has scored 29 times and provided nine assists across the Champions League and Ligue 1 this season. Saka had struggled with an injury earlier in the season, but has 11 goals and 12 assists in the Premier League and Champions League this season.The pair are their sides main threats, and their gaffers will need them to step up in a big way tonight. Copy linkCopiedWhat happened last week?The Gunners have work to do as they head to Paris tonight, but are no strangers to a big European away day this season.Ousmane Dembele opened the scoring early doors, but PSG did a good enough job at limiting Arsenal throughout the rest of the match.A couple of Martinelli chances and a Mikel Merino offside goal were all Arteta’s side could muster, they would have hoped for more with home advantage behind them. The game was quite even on the face of it, with PSG playing 375 passes compared to 326 for Arsenal, but Les Parisiens did well to slow momentum and tire the home crowd. 19 clearances for PSG tells the story, they frustrated Arsenal in the final third. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDembele injury decisionPSG coach Luis Enrique says Ousmane Dembele WILL be fit to face Arsenal in the Champions League second leg tonight.First-leg goalscorer Dembele was an injury scare after being taken off with a hamstring issue last week.Enrique said yesterday: “He’s been training with the group for two days. I have him at my disposal tomorrow.”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedPiers Morgan en routePiers Morgan wore a “Make Arsenal Great Again” hat as he headed to Paris on the Eurostar.The 60-year-old is in the French capital for the Gunners’ Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.Mikel Arteta’s side head to France with an uphill task, having lost last week’s first leg 1-0 in London.Irrespective of their deficit, Arsenal fans including Morgan have arrived in Paris dreaming of a place in the Champions League final in Munich on May 31.Credit: X/ piersmorganCopy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 4Every year the Pope has died, an English team has won the Champions LeagueSay it quietly, but Pope Francis’ tragic passing this year could be another sign that Arsenal could win it.When Pope John Paul died in 1978, Nottingham Forest won Europe’s top prize.When Pope John Paul II passed in 2005, Liverpool remarkably won the trophy from the jaws of defeat against AC Milan, and when Pope Benedict XVI died in on New Year’s Eve 2022, Manchester City went on to win a maiden European title in May.Could this be a sign for Arsenal?Copy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 3PSG have lost all their Champions League semi-final home legsThe French side might have home advantage, but that might not be a good thing considering their history in the last four at the Parc des Princes.They were beaten 1-0 by Borussia Dortmund in last year’s semi in Paris, and 2-1 by Manchester City in 2020/21.They were defeated by AC Milan in their first semi-final appearance in 1995.It must also be remembered that the Ligue 1 champions have never lifted the Champions League trophy, either.This is new territory for them, too.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 2Strong on their travelsArteta’s side are unbeaten in all of their last four away games on the continent.Last time out, the Gunners beat Real Madrid 2-1 in a rousing comeback at the Bernabeu, and before that, they thrashed PSV 7-1 in the last 16.In the league phase, they edged past Girona and smashed Sporting Lisbon.They have never won five on the spin on the road in Europe, but Arteta will argue that that creates yet another chance for his players to make history.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFour omens for ArsenalDon’t be down in the dumps after that second leg, Arsenal fans. Here are four omens which mean the Gunners will be marching into the Munich final.New winner every time in MunichEvery time the final has been hosted in the Bavarian capital, there is always a fresh winner of Europe’s elite competition.Germany’s third largest city has played host to the final four times.The first was at the Olympiastadion, where Nottingham Forest famously defeated Malmo in 1979, and the second was in 1993, when Marseille overcame AC Milan.Roberto di Matteo’s Blues won a dramatic shootout, with Didier Drogba the hero that night.Hence, the omens also suggest that when European Cup finals are held in Munich, and English sides are involved, they win.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal fans warnedArsenal have given out 2,000 scarves to their travelling supporters in Paris – despite a warning fans to be “vigilant” in the French capital amid concerns over PSG hooligans.The Gunners fans received a free red and white scarf, featuring an Arsenal club badge, when they picked up their tickets at the collection point.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedWelcome to PSG vs ArsenalHello and welcome to SunSport’s coverage of PSG vs Arsenal in a mammoth Champions League tie in Paris.The Gunners have it all to do in the French capital after trailing 1-0 from the first leg.Ousmane Dembele scored the only goal of the game inside the first four minutes as the visitors stunned Arsenal at The Emirates.The winner of tonight’s tie will face Inter Milan in the final in Munich on Saturday, May 31.Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are aiming for history to win football’s biggest prize for the first time.While PSG will also be aiming for the feat for the first time in their history.All that’s left is the build-up ahead of tonight’s HUGE clash, and we’ll be bringing you all of the updates right here on SunSport.Credit: PACopy linkCopied More