Champions League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 325 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I just see one guy who is good in the box’ – Amorim to keep playing Harry Maguire as striker as Man Utd eye £100m prize

      by

      HARRY MAGUIRE is happy to keep playing as a makeshift striker so Manchester United stay on course for a £100million jackpot.The England centre-back did his bit to help ‘Make Amorim Great Again’ with an incredible 121st-minute winner against Lyon to secure a Europa League semi-final.Harry Maguire is keen to cause more late mayhem after his winner against Lyon put Man Utd in the Europa League semi-finalsCredit: AlamyThe makeshift attacker capped a MAGA-nificent comebackCredit: RexRuben Amorim says Maguire ‘knows how to behave’ in the boxCredit: GettyGlory in that competition would hand United a lucrative ticket to next season’s Champions League.But boss Ruben Amorim has a striker crisis with Joshua Zirkzee crocked and Rasmus Hojlund scoring just one goal in 27 games.Maguire, who has scored four key goals this season, said: “You can see that we’re probably short on attackers.“We had two attackers in Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus that gave everything out there.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“We lost Josh, so if he asks me to go up there, I’m willing to go up there.“I do see myself as a threat and I do feel like I can cause problems and score a goal up there when the balls and crosses are coming in.”“I only got 30 minutes up there and it’s a lot harder than playing centre back.”Amorim has no plans to use Maguire as a forward from the start – but he has been impressed by the impact he can make.Most read in Europa LeagueMaguire saw plenty of the ball in both penalty areasBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKUnited’s boss has seen enough in training and in matches to know the £80m man is a useful attacking weapon when needed.Asked about the possibility of him starting up front, Amorim said: “To play a normal game, no. But in these moments it is something that is really important.Man Utd star calls out fans who left Old Trafford early before epic Lyon comeback with 15-word swipe“When I see Harry and put him as a striker, I just see one guy who is good in the box. He knows how to behave in that space.”United were staring at the prospect of no European football next season when ten-man Lyon took a 4-2 lead in the 109th minute at Old Trafford on Thursday.But the home side struck three times in seven minutes to turn the quarter final on its head – with Maguire stealing the glory with his winner.If United can beat Athletic Bilbao in the semis and then lift the trophy three weeks later then it would be huge for the Red Devils.Doing that alone would be worth around £14.8m for United while the Super Cup in Italy in August would bank another £4.3m.When I see Harry and put him as a striker, I just see one guy who is good in the box. He knows how to behave in that space.Ruben AmorimHowever it is the ticket to next season’s Champions League which will really prove to be invaluable for owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers.They would be guaranteed around £49m, due to their Uefa co-efficient,  while four home games would add another £20m in income.In addition, even an average season at Europe’s top table – such as the one neighbours City had this season – would see them pocket around £11m in prize money.If they reached the first knock-out round then that would be £5m more.The Europa League also brought the start of Maguire’s goalscoring exploits in October — a superb last-gasp header to level up a six-goal thriller in Porto.Then came February’s injury-time winner in the 2-1 FA Cup fourth-round win over his old club Leicester at Old Trafford.Rasmus Hojlund has netted just once in 27 games while fellow Red Devils’ frontman Joshua Zirkzee is now injuredCredit: GettyTeam-mates mobbed Maguire after he rounded off United’s sensational revival of three goals in seven minutes to KO Lyon in extra timeCredit: GettyThree weeks later, he nodded the decisive goal to spare United’s blushes against relegation-bound Ipswich at the Theatre of Dreams.So it should surprise nobody that he has used his bonce to good effect again — stooping to put his team into the semi-finals on an unforgettable night.Maguire, who seemed set for the exit door with West Ham under two years ago, added: “It’s an incredible feeling — I’ve obviously managed to do it a few times this year in the last minute, the dying moments.“There’s no better feeling than scoring here, particularly when it’s the match-winner.“I’ve had some amazing moments at this club, I’ve been here six years now. I’ve had some great times — and some bad ones as well.“That game pretty much summed up my time at the club.“It was a game full of emotion and the strangest, maddest game I’ve ever played in or witnessed.”United’s season of turmoil looked to be hitting a new low as they blew a 2-0 lead to trail ten-man Lyon 4-2 in extra-time.But three goals in seven minutes turned a topsy-turvy tie on its head, with Maguire stealing the glory right at the end.The Yorkshireman added: “This season has been so difficult for everyone involved, all the fans, players and staff.Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho, seen congratulating scorer Diogo Dalot, were praised by Maguire for their incredible workrateCredit: Getty“It’s just been nowhere near good enough and when you get moments like that, and memories you create, it’s so important for the fans to go home with a smile on their faces.”The turnaround was so incredible you could not escape the feeling their name might just be on the Europa League.But they will need to perform far better to see off Ernesto Valverde’s impressive Athletic Bilbao outfit.The fact they shipped four goals at home will concern United manager Ruben Amorim.And just one of United’s seven goals in the tie with Lyon was scored by a striker — and that was Zirkzee, who has since suffered a hamstring injury.Maguire said: “We’ve got to do far better than that if we want to win this competition. We can’t be doing that and be leaving it to turn it around in that situation.I think they thought they had won it, the way they were celebrating. That gave us more of an incentive to turn the game around.Harry Maguire“But it does show great spirit, fight, togetherness. And that’s the one thing this group of lads is doing — they’re giving everything.“The worst feeling was that we felt we’d thrown it away, rather than lost the game at that moment.“Also how we managed to get ourselves into that situation.“Going into extra-time at 2-2, we obviously can’t get done on two counter-attacks like that when we’re playing against ten men. It’s criminal.”At that stage, United looked out for the count, even with a man extra. But the sight of Lyon wildly ­celebrating their goals and getting ready to mark a famous win seemed to ignite something inside United’s players.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordMaguire added: “I still thought there was a lot of time on the clock. “And it was the 109th minute when they scored the fourth.“I think they thought they had won it, the way they were celebrating. “That gave us more of an incentive to turn the game around.”In stark contrast to their Premier League form, United are the only unbeaten team left in European competition this season.Read More on The SunAnd lifting the trophy in Bilbao on May 21, would take them back into the Champions League.Should that happen, the inspirational Maguire’s latest late show will have been priceless.Man Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again. More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘It’s not a bad thing’ – Pep Guardiola aims sly dig at rivals Man Utd hours after their heroic Europa League comeback

      by

      PEP GUARDIOLA couldn’t resist a subtle dig at Manchester United following their Europa League heroics.The Red Devils somehow fought back to beat Lyon 7-6 in a chaotic quarter-final on Thursday.Pep Guardiola has made a cheeky dig towards Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyUnited secured a stunning comeback win over Lyon on Thursday in the Europa LeagueCredit: GettyGuardiola’s City have endured a tough season and could finish without a trophy for the first time since 2017. The defending Prem champions currently sit fifth in the table as they battle for a Champions League place.But the Spaniard appeared to make a subtle dig at City’s crosstown rivals as he looked forward to tomorrow’s game with Everton.Guardiola said: “It’s not a bad thing to be fighting for a Champions League spot.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“You could be in a very, very lower position in the Premier League if you have done few good things than we have done in these four, five months.”We could be 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th.”United currently occupy 14th place in the table and already guaranteed to have their lowest ever points total in the Prem.Amorim has failed to get his side firing domestically, with United winning just 10 of their 32 league games this term.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe Portuguese boss hopes Thursday’s remarkable comeback can herald a change of mentality from his squad.And he revealed he’d been watching United’s 1999 Champions League final turnaround ahead of Lyon’s visit. Pep Guardiola says he’s a failure because Julia Roberts visited Man Utd Amorim told TNT: “I was watching the 99 documentary for inspiration.”The team were tired. At 4-2, you think it is over, but here it is never over. Here everything is possible.”This is one type of moment that can change a lot of things. Man Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again.”Sometimes we just look at the tactical and physical aspect. “But these moments can change a lot in the players’ minds.” More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal files: Kiwior hands Arteta major dilemma but Williams transfer could be derailed by sky-high wage demands

      by

      ARSENAL have given themselves a chance at finally tasting European glory with their Champions League victory over Real Madrid.The Gunners swept Europe’s biggest and best aside with ease, doing it with an injury to one of their best players too.Jakub Kiwior was superb as Arsenal completed their 5-1 demolition of Real MadridCredit: ReutersJakub Kiwior stepped in for Gabriel Magalhaes and put up another stellar performance as the Brazilian’s deputy.In this week’s edition of Arsenal Files, Jordan Davies dives into the dilemma that leaves Mikel Arteta with, as well as giving an update on the North London club’s pursuit of Nico Williams and much, much more.JAK TO THE FUTURE?It is not unusual for injuries to provide the perfect platform for Arsenal players to change their fortunes under Mikel Arteta.Bought in the summer for around £32m, Mikel Merino was viewed as a valuable squad player and midfield back-up to the likes of Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.But with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus crocked for the season, the Spaniard has transformed himself into a goalscoring No9 – with six goals in 12 appearances in that position. You cannot picture this Arsenal team without him right now.For Myles Lewis-Skelly, this was meant to be an “easing in” year in the world of senior football, the academy graduate only making his first team debut back in September.But with another summer arrival in Riccardo Calafiori struggling for fitness, the full-back has seized the moment for club and country – a nailed-on starter with 31 appearances in all competitions so far this term.But the most surprising of the lot has been Jakub Kiwior – the Polish centre back stepping in for another long-term absentee in Gabriel during one of the Gunners’ most important weeks of their season, and arguably of boss Arteta’s reign.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKiwior has started Arsenal’s last four games in all competitions – his longest run of the campaign and the longest since an eight-game spell from February 11 to March 31 of 2024.Two draws and two wins, but the latter have been startlingly impressive, earning a clean sheet in their 3-0 quarter final first leg victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League before backing that up once more in the 2-1 second leg win in the Bernabeu this week.Gabriel goes wild with friends and family celebrating Arsenal’s epic win over Real Madrid His critics since arriving at the Emirates in January 2023 for around £20m from Spezia would rightfully point out his flaws – often a nervousness on the ball and a tendency to make rash decisions and costly errors, as well as his positioning in one-on-ones.Most notably in last season’s Champions League quarter final, operating as a left-back in the 2-2 first leg draw, where he was skinned by Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane that led to Harry Kane converting a penalty.As a result, he has been linked with moves away. AC Milan and Napoli have taken an interest with Kiwior said to be keen on a return to Italy for regular first-team action as he looks to keep his starting spot for Poland. Arteta seemingly saw him as one to let go to raise transfer funds.But his performances against Madrid may leave Arteta with a dilemma. His calmness of approach to keep the likes of Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe quiet was just as eye-catching as Declan Rice’s thunderbolt free-kicks and Bukayo Saka’s return from injury.Kiwior is known as one of the quieter members of the Arsenal dressing room, with club sources struggling to get more than a few words out of him at times – hardly a character and a personality that Arteta requires and demands.And yet, would letting him go be a mistake? Someone in the squad who can provide good competition for Gabriel and William Saliba is a valuable asset.Arteta may still deem the 25-year-old surplus to requirements, in which case they could make a decent profit on a player who has certainly raised his game in recent weeks.But should Kiwior carry on his fine form in the semi-finals against PSG – and even go on to start in a back four that wins the Champions League – letting him go could prove to be tougher than first thought.It will certainly test the ruthlessness of Arteta’s ambitions to strengthen an already-strong squad.Kiwior has formed an impressive relationship with William SalibaCredit: ReutersMIK’S BERNABEU SURPRISEJust like his mentor Pep Guardiola, it is often the case that Arteta likes to be in control of a 90-minute performance, preparing for any context, regardless of whether that ties in to the ‘beautiful game’ or not.The Spaniard is not afraid to sit deep and defend and frustrate, nor is he scared of going all guns-blazing and attacking from minute one. To adapt is to survive, and win.So it was a huge surprise to hear Arteta speak after the second leg triumph at the Bernabeu with alarming honesty at how helpless he felt on the touchline this week.He explained: “It was my first time as a coach in that dugout and I realised after three minutes that in this stadium, anything is possible.“I mean, they are specialists in creating such chaos, such a belief, and it’s very difficult to understand really what’s going on in the game and have certainty about how we control it.“I’m here to experience these kinds of games and to go through them. I know that sometimes you’re going to win, sometimes you’re going to lose.”This points to a real maturing and progressive moment in Arteta’s managerial career, forced to sit back and trust his players will make the right decisions, knowing he can have little impact through his ants-in-his-pants behaviour on the sidelines.If he is to lift the Champions League on May 31 in Munich, he will need much more of that.Mikel Arteta didn’t have his usual control from the Bernabeu dugoutCredit: GettyNICO OF TIMEArsenal summer target Nico Williams proved once again why he is wanted by most of Europe with another goalscoring showing in the Europa League this week.In fact, his 80th minute header to make it 2-0 to Athletic Bilbao against Rangers and send them to the semi-finals was a VERY Arteta-style goal from the wing.Coming inside, nipping in front of his defender and heading in at the far post from a looped cross – how many times have we seen the likes of Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard do that in an Arsenal shirt?That was Williams’ fifth goal in Europe, making it 11 goals in 42 games in all competitions – the best return of his career.Despite being happy at his boyhood Bilbao, the 22-year-old expects to leave with the use of his £50m release clause this summer.While he also feels he has done his duty by putting the club in pole position to qualify for the Champions League next term, currently in fourth with seven games remaining and with a chance of winning the Europa League.The fee alone would be ‘cheap’, but Spanish sources have told SunSport he could demand an eye-watering wage of around £250k-a-week. An incredible amount for someone so young and untested in England.That would put the Spaniard up there with Arsenal’s highest earners, and seriously test the willingness of Arsenal as they plan a “big” summer spending spree and aim to bring an elite No9 through the door.And remember, their financial report of 2023/24 showed that they have already increased their wage payments by nearly £100m from £234.8m to £327.8m.Nico Williams could demand mega wages to move to ArsenalCredit: RexA WELL-EARNED RESTArsenal will have a six-day break before their Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain – thanks to Crystal Palace.The Eagles were due to face Arsenal next Saturday on April 26, but the south east Londoners instead have an FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa.Instead, Arsenal will welcome Palace to the Emirates on Wednesday April 23 before hosting PSG on Tuesday April 29.An extra few days of rest and recovery at London Colney will be a blessing for Arteta, and may just give Arsenal the edge.Meanwhile PSG have to play two Ligue 1 games in just THREE days, against Nantes on Tuesday April 22 and then OGC Nice on Friday April 25.On the flipside, Luis Enrique’s men have already won the French title, and will likely rest all of their big hitters before travelling to North London.Arsenal will have a much longer break before their Champions League semi-final against PSGCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Build him a statue’ – Man Utd fans stunned as they realise £70m ‘flop’ single-handedly saved the day in Lyon clash

      by

      IN all the chaos of Manchester United’s thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals, one star was initially overlooked for his huge role in the comeback.Bruno Fernandes spearheaded the fightback with a perfect penalty before Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire scored injury-time goals in extra time to seal a 5-4 win on the night and send Old Trafford into meltdown.Casemiro was the unsung hero of Man Utd’s win over LyonCredit: GettyThe Brazilian midfielder was labelled ‘the godfather’ for his displayCredit: GettyHowever, one star played an overlooked part in all three goals, Casemiro.After a strong start to his Man Utd career, the £70million Brazilian midfielder has rightly been criticised for many of his displays over the past two seasons, often looking leggy and making some high-profile errors to give away goals.But against Lyon, the 33-year-old showed off his class and guts by having a hand in all three of the Red Devils’ extra-time goals.Casemiro was firstly involved with the score at 4-2 to Lyon when he found his way into the box and was all set to score before he was fouled for the penalty, which Fernandes then duly converted.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Real Madrid midfielder was then involved again as the ball was played into him on the edge of the box before he laid off a pass to Mainoo.The academy graduate, who turns 20 this weekend, then produced a deft touch to move inside his marker before curling a shot into the bottom-right corner and past goalkeeper Lucas Perri.And mere seconds after the restart, Casemiro picked up the ball in the left half-space, turned and started dribbling towards goal.He then lifted a perfectly weighted cross to the far post where Maguire had peeled away from his marker, which saw the centre-half nod home the winner.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAs well as his assists for the three late goals, Casemiro also had an excellent game in his less glamorous duties.He won the most duels (nine) and created the most chances out of any Man Utd player against Lyon, as well as racking up three tackles, winning possession seven times and making eight clearances.Ruben Amorim will go all out to secure Europa League glory for Man Utd Following the thrilling clash, fans highlighted Casemiro’s efforts during the emotionally draining 120 minutes of action.Taking to social media, one fan said: “Build Casemiro a statue, I didn’t even realise he assisted all three late goals.”A second said: “Two assists and a penalty won all in extra time. Casemiro, ladies and gentlemen.”A third added: “Never doubt the goat.”Another said: “Man United really did what we wanted to see from Real Madrid yesterday. Casemiro two assists in the Remontada, he still got the Real Madrid clutch DNA.”Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordA fifth said: “Uncle saw Rice against Real Madrid & wanted to remind everyone that the Godfather is still around.”A sixth said: “Genuinely thought I was watching 2017 Casemiro in the UCL tonight. That was a monumental performance from him, 120 mins of just excellence and then ends it with two assists and a penalty won in seven minutes?! Genuinely, wow.”Casemiro’s heroics to get Man Utd to the semi-finals will see him return to Spain to face a familiar foe in Athletic Bilbao, who defeated Rangers 2-0 on aggregate in their own quarter-final.However, he and his team-mates will be fighting against history, with Man Utd having not beaten the Spanish outfit since the Busby Babes graced the Old Trafford turf in 1957.Man Utd have played the Basque outfit four times overall, losing their most recent two encounters in 2012 under Sir Alex Ferguson.Read More on The SunIn general, they have a poor record against Spanish opposition, with only 23 wins from a total of 76 games – a win rate of just 30.26 per cent.The semi-final clashes will take place on May 1 and May 8, with the latter fixture once again coming at Old Trafford.Man Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again. More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea 1 Legia Warsaw 2 (agg 4-2): Enzo Maresca’s bafflingly strong XI stumbles into semi-final with embarrassing loss

      by

      ENZO MARESCA’S bid to win over the Chelsea fans went up in smoke.The Italian head coach packed his team to the hilt with A-List stars in an attempt to deliver a display of determination and re-energise Stamford Bridge after a series of turgid performances.Steve Kapuadi celebrates heading Legia’s winner on the nightCredit: RexTyrique George had a goal ruled out for the below-par BluesCredit: GettyLegia Warsaw fans let off flares while their team troubled ChelseaCredit: ReutersJadon Sancho put in a stellar performance – but was the only Chelsea star to do soCredit: AFPBut even though the Blues are through to the semi finals of the Conference League they were beaten on the night by the fifth best team in Poland.It marks their first home defeat of 2025 and the first in the main draw of UEFA’s C-List tournament – which Chelsea are expected to win comfortably.Plumes of smoke from flares ignited in the away end covered the pitch during the second half. But there was no hiding place for Maresca’s £1 billion squad as they were humbled.Even though they are comfortably into the last four on aggregate, the result has done nothing to ease the growing tension on the terraces from fans sometimes angry but mainly bored by Maresca’s tactics.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe sluggish tempo and tip toeing around their own box led to jeers from a crowd demanding more gusto – and not Malo the right back.Were it not for the constant throb of chanting from 1,000 shirtless Poles, the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge would have been flat at best, angry at worst at another let down of an evening out.Maresca went for it with his line-up. Skipper Reece James, England star Cole Palmer, lead striker Nicolas Jackson, Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella. All included in the starting XI and nobody was quite sure whether it was for target practice ahead of Sunday’s trip to Fulham, or as punishment for last Sunday’s dismal showing against Ipswich.Most read in Europa LeagueChelsea boss Enzo Maresca didn’t look too pleased with what he sawCredit: GettyBlues’ keeper Filip Jorgensen let in Tomas Pekhart’s penalty openerCredit: APBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut while Chelsea are struggling for conviction in the Premier League, Europe is a different matter entirely.The level of opposition has enabled Maresca to make drastic rotations to his squad and mainly use his second string.Marc Cucurella made his Chelsea equaliser look easyCredit: GettyThat all changed last night with the more heavyweight line up. And it quickly became apparent that Maresca’s main driver was a bid to sharpen up his troops for the run in to the domestic season.After just a minute, Palmer was through one on one yet skewed his shot to the left of goal and should have done better.Four minutes later he missed again with a stooping header, although this was more the fault of team-mate Jadon Sancho for squaring the ball instead of shooting when within range of goal.And Chelsea’s problems this season were soon evident again in microcosm. Having been totally in charge for the opening ten minutes and created two chances, they fell behind.Warsaw’s first foray into the home area saw keeper Filip Jorgensen haul down midfielder forward Tomas Pekhart, with the Spanish ref awarding a penalty.The former Southampton player calmly thumped the ball into the back of the net from 12 yards.Away fans had a cracking night despite going out on aggregateCredit: GettyPekhart hails his 10th minute spot-kick breakthrough for LegiaCredit: PACucurella celebrated his goal with provider Jadon SanchoCredit: GettyWith Chelsea enjoying a commanding 3-0 first leg lead, there was no panic and even subdued celebrations from the boisterous visiting fans.Sancho finally threaded a perpendicular ball through in the 31st minute when he squared through the box for Cucurella to divert the ball in from seven yards out to get Chelsea back on level terms on the night.Yet there is something fragile about Maresca’s team – even his first choice one. And with the fans getting on the players’ backs like they did on Sunday, they wilted again.And that gifted Warsaw a golden chance to regain the lead eight minutes into the second half.From a corner, Chelsea failed to clear their lines and a rebounding shot into the danger area from Claud Goncalves found its way to the head of unmarked Steve Kapaudi to simply nod past Jorgensen.The goal was the cue for dozens of flares to light up the away end.Sub Noni Madueke injected some life on the flank and had a shot cleared off the line, fellow sub Tyrique George’s follow up squirmed under the keeper but was hooked off the line by goalscorer Kapaudi.Read More on The SunFor a while the pitch was shrouded in choking white mist, shrouding the action as Maresca’s team tried to up the ante against the grey clouds of frustration overhanging the home fans.When it cleared Chelsea were still labouring against far inferior opposition as they have done too often  this season in all competitions. More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Myles Lewis-Skelly winds up Real Madrid fans and spits water after Arsenal win as fans say ‘going straight to the top’

      by

      MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY was spotted winding up Real Madrid fans during Arsenal’s famous victory in the Bernabeu.The Gunners wrapped up their Champions League quarter-final victory over Los Blancos with a 2-1 win in the second leg.Myles Lewis-Skelly wound up the Real Madrid fans at the BernabeuCredit: XHe was filmed shouting ‘vamos’ towards the home crowdCredit: XIt followed on from the stunning 3-0 romp at the Emirates in the first leg to boost Arsenal’s credentials to go all the way.Mikel Arteta’s side included remarkable performances from the likes of Declan Rice and Jakub Kiwior across the two legs.However, Lewis-Skelly, 18, was also a standout performer despite his tender age.He had already proved himself in the Premier League this season and has confirmed himself as one of the top prospects in Europe.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe defender has clearly seen his confidence rise due to his success on the pitch, as he proved in the Spanish capital.During the match, Lewis-Skelly was filmed from the stands goading the home support.A video on social media shows him shouting “vamos” to the crowd while taking a drink. Arsenal supporters have loved seeing the confidence in the teenager as they reacted on social media.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne posted: “This is the man I love.”A second commented: “MLS is him. Going straight to the top.”Tunnel footage shows Arsenal stars’ team-talk before Real Madrid clash including Rice’s inspirational 5-word command A third wrote: “I love footballers with personality who more than back it up with ability – obscenely talented young man.”A fourth said: “Absolutely love him.”Another added: “Love this. What a player he will be.”Lewis-Skelly played the full match in Spain and put in a top job to keep Rodrygo under wraps.It was not just the fans that he trolled either, as after the game he took aim at Madrista Antonio Rudiger.The former Chelsea star stepped on the Arsenal man during the match, and the defender included a picture of the incident on Instagram.Read More on The SunLewis-Skelly and co will be hoping for the same success in the Champions League semi-finals.The North London outfit will be taking on Paris Saint-Germain, who have already dumped out Liverpool and Aston Villa.Arsenal ratings v Real MadridARSENAL’S heroes dumped the Kings of Europe out of the Champions League in dramatic fashion.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates More

    • 188 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Tunnel footage shows Arsenal stars’ team-talk before Real Madrid clash including Rice’s inspirational 5-word command

      by

      DECLAN RICE inspired Arsenal to a stunning Champions League quarter-final win over Real Madrid both on and off the pitch.The 26-year-old was man of the match in both legs of the last-eight clash.Declan Rice had some words of inspiration for his team-matesCredit: MovistarRice was named man of the match for both legs of the quarter-final clashCredit: GettyHis outstanding free kick double helped the Gunners to a 3-0 win at the Emirates last week.And a midfield masterclass at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday saw them secure a spot in the semi-finals.Real Madrid stars were confident about completing a ‘remontada’ in the build-up to the second-leg.As a result, Mikel Arteta and Co found themselves under an increased amount of pressure heading into the match.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Rice showed his leadership qualities before kick-off by sending a strong message to his team-mates.Prior to Arsenal’s warm-up, the midfielder said: “Nothing to fear, let’s go!”Gunners’ captain Martin Odegaard also said: “This is on us, guys! It’s f***ing today! Ignore the whistles now.”Footage of the pre-match message was shared on social media hours after full-time.Most read in Champions LeagueJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesFans were quick to comment, with one person writing: “Rice is the real leader.”Another said: “LEADER RICE LEADER LOVE THESE DETAILS.”Myles Lewis-Skelly winds up Real Madrid fans as Arsenal knock Los Blancos out of Champions League A third wrote: “Declan Rice is the true king.”While a fourth commented: “Rice was made for the big stage.”Arsenal will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semi-finals.The first leg will take place on April 29 at the Emirates Stadium. More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How Real Madrid could line up under Jurgen Klopp with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool and RB Leipzig stars

      by

      JURGEN KLOPP has been linked with a shock move to Real Madrid after it was reported that manager Carlo Ancelotti will soon depart.According to Sky Sports, Ancelotti, 65, is set to walk away from Real after the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26 following Wednesday’s Champions League elimination to Arsenal.Jurgen Klopp has been linked with a shock move to Real Madrid a year after leaving LiverpoolReal manager Carlo Ancelotti has been linked with a departure this monthKlopp could reunite with Trent Alexander-Arnold and another Liverpool star at RealAnd UOL Esporte report Klopp, 57, is “ready” to take over at the Santiago Bernabeu a year after leaving Liverpool.The same source claims the German tactician is “unhappy” in his new job at Red Bull as Global Head of Football.Thus, the Liverpool legend is open to talking to Madrid, with the intention of returning to coaching as early as July.The ex-Borussia Dortmund boss reportedly has a special clause that could see him cut his contract short for a return to the dugout.Read More on FootballIf he succeeds Ancelotti then the German may go back to his Liverpool contacts book to lure some fresh talent to the Spanish capital.The famous gaffer could also bring in some of the players he is currently dealing with at Red Bull.For starters, Klopp could reunite with Trent Alexander-Arnold who turned down a new contract with the Reds and is close to moving to Real as a free agent in June.It’s understood he’s already agreed terms on a £240,000-a-week deal at the Bernabeu. Most read in FootballLos Blancos have also been previously linked with Alexander-Arnold’s team-mate Ibrahima Konate.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKonate joined the Merseysiders from RB Leipzig in 2021 under Klopp and his contract runs out in 2026. That means the Premier League champions-elect may have to sell the centre-back this summer to avoid losing him for free, like they’re doing with TAA.Carlo Ancelotti shows his disappointment as Real Madrid crashes out of Champions League to Arsenal Therefore, if Klopp moves to Madrid then the Spanish champions could have Trent at right-back with David Alaba on the other side, while Konate could team up with Antonio Rudiger at centre-back in front of star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga – already at Real Madrid – may link up in midfield.Alexander-Arnold’s England team-mate Jude Bellingham could start at No10 with Vinicius Jr on his right and Kylian Mbappe on the other side.And when it comes to the man that would lead the line, that is where Klopp’s Red Bull contacts would come into play.The ex-Mainz boss could call on Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko, who has also been linked with Arsenal.Real have so much quality that they wouldn’t need much tweaking, but Klopp would be able to attract some of Liverpool and Red Bull’s best players. More