More stories

  • in

    Fulham vs Burnley LIVE SCORE: Premier League latest as Cottagers look to build on their midweek success

    FULHAM return to Premier League action with a home fixture against relegation-battlers Burnley.The Cottagers will be feeling untouchable after beating Everton to book a Carabao Cup semifinal spot for the first time ever on Tuesday.
    And they did what Vincent Kompany’s men couldn’t as Burnley suffered a defeat to the Toffees in their last outing.

    PADDY POWER WELCOME OFFER – Get £40 in free bet builder bets
    Follow ALL the action from Craven Cottage with our live blog below… More

  • in

    Man City 4-0 Fluminense LIVE RESULT – Club World Cup final: Pep’s side crowned world champs & bag fifth honour of 2023

    MANCHESTER CITY have beaten Fluminense 4-0 in Saudi Arabia to claim the Fifa Club World Cup.The Cityzens took the lead after just 40 seconds through Julian Alvarez’s instinctive finish.
    An own goal from Nino doubled City’s lead on 27 minutes after Phil Foden’s effort was deflected past Fabio.
    The academy graduate did get his goal after he tapped in from close range to make it 3-0 in the second half before Pep Guardiola was dealt a huge blow as midfield stalwart Rodri was forced off with an injury.
    Julian Alvarez finished off proceedings with his second and City’s fourth as the English side took home their fifth honour of 2023.

    Match result: Man City 4-0 Fluminense
    Man City team: Ederson, Walker, Stones, Dias, Ake, Rodrigo, Lewis, Bernardo, Foden, Grealish, Alvarez
    Fluminense team: Fabio, Samuel Xavier, Nino, Felipe Melo, Marcelo, Andre, Martinelli, Jhon Arias, Ganso, Keno, Cano

    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
    Follow our live blog below…
    Man City are FIFA Club World Cup champions
    For the first time in their club’s history Pep Guardiola’s side win the Club World Cup.
    The celebrations will continue long into the night in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
    Having won their first ever Champions League title last season, they have now ticked off another first.
    Credit: Getty
    The winner takes it all
    Man City have been crowned FIFA Club World Cup winners.
    Their dominant 4-0 victory of Fluminense tops off a perfect 2023 as they add it to the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup in the trophy cabinet.
    Pep Guardiola wins the competition with his third team, further confirming him as one of the greatest managers in football.
    Credit: AFP
    Walker kicks off at final whistle
    As the players shook hands after Man City’s comprehensive win, something happened between Filipe Melo and Kyle Walker.
    The two players had to be separated as sparks flew.
    Whatever was said, both players saw the red mist and there was certainly no love lost between the pair.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: Getty
    City will be concerned of Rodri injury
    Despite the celebrations this evening, there will be huge concerns for the fitness of Rodri.
    He seemed to twist his knee in a really unnatural way, with many fearing ligament damage as a result.
    Rodri tried to continue but collapsed to the ground soon after.
    As he came off, the player’s reaction seemed to suggest that he thought it was not good news for him.
    Credit: Getty
    Routine day in the office for Pep
    Guardiola is going around, congratulating every member of Man City staff here at pitch-side.
    It shows the personality of the man as he knows how integral everyone is to the collective cause.
    Despite having won this trophy twice before, he seems to be enjoying this one as he wins it for the first time in the club’s history.
    Credit: Getty
    Get your Phil of trophies
    At 23-years-old, Phil Foden has won his sixteenth trophy as a Man City player, an unbelievable achievement.
    What will mean more to Foden right now is the more game time he getting during these campaigns.
    He has been on form for City this season and integral to a lot of their wins with some big players out injured.
    Credit: Getty
    FT: Man City 4-0 Fluminense
    It is good to see these different continents do battle but the reality is the strength of the Premier League is no contest.
    All too often in this competition, these games are always damage limitation against the European sides.
    Man City won’t care, they have added another trophy to the cabinet in Jeddah this evening.
    Credit: Getty
    FT: Man City 4-0 Fluminense
    The referee puts the South Americans out of their misery.
    Towards the end of the game, they just had nothing in the tank.
    It is a deserved win for Man City, they huge trophy haul of 2023 continues.
    Man City 4-0 Fluminense
    90. As the cross comes in, Alvarez controls it then dummies a shot to sidestep the defender.
    He then gets a right-footed shot away which nestles into the bottom corner of the goal.
    Man City have equalled the highest score in this Club World Cup final, scored by Guardiola’s Barcelona some twelve years ago.
    Goal – Julian Alvarez (Man City)
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    88. The Brazilian side have done well to get to this final.
    They were never expected to win their own championship and surprised many last season.
    Getting here was one thing, going toe to toe with Man City was just one step too far for them.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    86. This has been a comfortable win for Man City.
    Despite their huffing and puffing, Fluminense have not really tested Guardiola’s side in the final third.
    This will be the third club Pep Guardiola has won this trophy with.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    84. Kennedy is shown a yellow card for a foul on Nunez.
    As the Man City player goes down he smashes into another defender.
    Seems a painful one for the midfielder as his head strikes the Fluminense player.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    82. Phil Foden comes off for Man City after picking up a knock.
    Nunes and Bobb comes on for Ake and Foden.
    Guardiola looking to rotate his side now in these closing stages.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    80. Kennedy does well outside the box, weaving in between the defenders.
    He lets a shot go from distance which Ederson has to tip over the crossbar.
    Good play by the young Brazilian.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    78. It was always going to be an uphill struggle for the Brazilians.
    Conceding that early Alvarez goal made it so much more so.
    There is a noticeable gulf in class between the sides.
    Credit: AFP
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    76. Fluminense come forward once again.
    A cross is swung into the box but Cano cannot get a head on it.
    Man City come forward themselves with Bernardo Silva having a shot at goal but slices across it and sends it into the side netting.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    74. Akanji and Gvardiol come on for Rodri and Stones.
    The Spanish defensive midfielder is shaking his head as he comes off.
    Man City will have to get some tests done on that knee to see if that injury keeps him out at all.
    Man City 3-0 Fluminense
    72. Alvarez does well on the left-hand side of the box.
    He drills a ball across goal, which is met by the slide of Foden.
    Great goal by Man City.
    Meanwhile, Rodri has collapsed to the ground, he does not look in a good way.
    Goal – Phil Foden (Man City)
    Man City 2-0 Fluminense
    70. Rodri seems to be in some severe pain for Man City as the physios treat him.
    He is back to his feet but shaking his head.
    Pep Guardiola will not want to lose the Spaniard for any length of time.
    Credit: Getty
    Man City 2-0 Fluminense
    68. Fluminense break down the right once again.
    Lima crosses into the box but Ederson reads it well to gather.
    Brief glimpse of goal for the South Americans.
    Alexsander is booked for a heavy challenge where he follows through on Rodri.
    Man City 2-0 Fluminense
    66. As the South Americans try to press in the final third, Man City counter attack at pace with Silva.
    Kennedy runs the length of the pitch to chase him down.
    Great energy from the young striker.
    Man City 2-0 Fluminense
    64. Fluminenese are continuing to battle in all fairness to them.
    Grealish is penalised for a push in the back of Samuel Xavier.
    Lima does brilliantly on the byline and finds Kennedy but he cannot work a shooting opportunity.
    Man City 2-0 Fluminense
    62. Kovacic comes on for Rico Lewis.
    Pep Guardiola must be reading these posts.
    Man City swing a corner in and it is met by the head of Stones but he cannot direct it towards goal. More

  • in

    Aston Villa vs Sheffield United LIVE SCORE: Premier League latest as Villans look to snatch top spot

    ASTON VILLA have a huge chance to climb to the top of the Premier League with three points against Sheffield United.Unai Emery’s men pulled off an incredible comeback win against Brentford to keep the pressure on league leaders Arsenal.
    While Chris Wilder’s side were beaten on the road 2-0 by struggling Chelsea.

    Kick-off time: 8pm GMT
    Live stream: NOW TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League

    PADDY POWER WELCOME OFFER – Get £40 in free bet builder bets
    Follow ALL the action from Villa Park with our live blog below… More

  • in

    European Super League LIVE: Premier League release statement after ruling as Man Utd amongst clubs to reject tournament

    THE European Super League is back on the table following a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice.The court has today determined Fifa and Uefa acted against competition law when they blocked the formation of a European Super League in 2021.
    Twelve of Europe’s biggest clubs proposed the formation of a European Super League two years ago, but the proposal was met with a wave of fan backlash and the proposal was shut down.
    Now, the tournament could be revived but English football fans may not need to be concerned as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his government have promised to stop clubs from joining new competitions that would kill off the domestic game.
    Many European footballing giants, including Man Utd, have reaffirmed that they have no interest in joining the Super League.
    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
    Follow our live blog below…
    Inter becomes the next European giant to reject new European Super League
    Inter Milan has joined a growing list of European clubs to reject the idea of a new Super League.
    The Italian side reaffirmed its commitment to the current structure of European football today.
    A statement read: “FC Internazionale Milano reiterates its position that European football’s future well-being can only be secured by clubs working together through the ECA, in partnership and collaboration with UEFA and FIFA.
    “As a Club, we remain committed to the values that underpin the European Sports Model and to working through the ECA alongside our fellow clubs to uphold those values”.
    Credit: REUTERS
    Feyenoord denies involvement in new European Super League
    Dutch champions Feyenoord have denied claims they are set to take part in the new European Super League.
    A statement said: “Feyenoord has taken note of the European Court’s ruling that UEFA and FIFA cannot ban clubs from starting a competition such as the Super League. 
    “Feyenoord insists it has made no commitments, nor has it ever spoken to the people behind the possible Super League, as some foreign publications suggest.
    “With what the club knows so far, it has doubts whether this initiative is a good idea for most clubs and for the national leagues. Through the ECA, the club will continue to think about the future, improvements within European football and strengthening the position of Dutch football”.
    AS Monaco joins PSG in rejecting new Super League
    Another French side has expressed full commitment to Uefa’s competitions and rejected the latest attempt to create a European Super League.
    AS Monaco said: “AS Monaco would like to express its full commitment to the principle of sporting merit which governs UEFA competitions and the French championship.
    “AS Monaco will continue to work with the Ligue 1 clubs within the Ligue de Football Professionnel, and with other clubs through the ECA, in order to participate progressively and collectively in the development of football”.
    Uefa president mocks new European Super League
    Uefa’s president has taken the opportunity to make today’s new Super League proposal.
    Aleksander Čeferin said: “I’ve seen the press leads of English supporters calling it like… The Zombie League.
    “It’s close to Christmas, they saw a box under the tree and started to celebrate, but then when they opened the box they realised there was not much inside”.
    Another football giant rejects the Super League
    PSG has become the latest team to turn down A22’s new European Super League proposal.
    The French giant said it “utterly rejects” the new plan.
    A statement read: “Paris Saint-Germain totally and utterly rejects any plans for a so-called Super League, which has been the case from day one and will always remain the case”.
    “As a proud European institution, PSG supports the principles of the European sporting model, the values of open competition and inclusion, and works with all recognised stakeholders in European football – above all with the fans and players, who are at the heart of the game”.
    ‘The European football family does not want the Super League’
    Atletico Madrid has rejected today’s proposal for a New European Super League.
    A statement said: “The European football family does not want the European Super League”. “Germany, France, England, Italy, Spain (except for Real Madrid and Barcelona), etc. do not want the Super League”.
    “We are in favor of protecting the European football family, safeguarding domestic leagues, and ensuring that qualification for European competitions is achieved through on-field performance every season”.
    Premier League slams new Super League proposal
    The Premier League has rejected today’s proposal for a new European Super League.
    A statement read: “The Premier League notes today’s judgment in the European Court of Justice case involving the “European Superleague Company”, FIFA and UEFA.  This is a significant ruling and we will now fully examine its implications for the game.
    “The ruling does not endorse the so-called “European Super League” and the Premier League continues to reject any such concept. Supporters are of vital importance to the game and they have time and again made clear their opposition to a “breakaway” competition that severs the link between domestic and European football.
    “The Premier League reiterates its commitment to the clear principles of open competition that underpin the success of domestic and international club competitions.
    “Football thrives on the competitiveness created by promotion and relegation, the annual merit-based qualification from domestic leagues and cups to international club competitions and the longstanding rivalries and rituals that come with weekends being reserved for domestic football.”
    Are the Premier League teams involved?
    As it stands, no the Premier League top six are not involved in this current iteration of the European Super League.
    During the last ill-advised proposal, six of the Premier League’s biggest teams received huge backlash for attempting to break away from Uefa.
    It seems like this time, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester City will not be getting involved.
    How will the new Super League work?
    Bernd Reichart, the chief executive of A22, has confirmed the format of the “new” Super League, following the ECJ’s ruling this morning.
    The new European Super League proposal features 64 teams, each in one of three tiers: Star, Gold and Blue. 
    Annual promotion and relegation will happen between each tier, this seemingly aims to address complaints of a lack of sporting fairness in previous proposals.
    Clubs will play only 14 matches per season, with the star and gold tiers consisting of 16 teams each.
    Each season will end with a knockout-style competition to determine which teams are promoted and relegated.
    Manchester United rejects new Super League
    Manchester United have rejected the latest Super League proposal.
    The club said: “Our position has NOT changed.
    “We remain fully committed to participation in UEFA competitions, and to positive cooperation with UEFA, the Premier League, and fellow clubs through the ECA on the continued development of the European game”.
    Bayern Munich reject the new Super League
    German giants Bayern Munich have rejected A22’s latest bid to launch the European Super League.
    “It’s very clear: the door for the Super League at FC Bayern remains closed.
    “Such a competition would represent an attack on the importance of domestic leagues and the statics of European football”, club CEO Dreesen says, reports Fabrizio Romano.
    🚨🔴 FC Bayern reject the Super League.“It’s very clear: the door for the Super League at FC Bayern remains closed”.“Such a competition would represent an attack on the importance of domestic leagues and the statics of European football”, club CEO Dreesen says. pic.twitter.com/j5ZLzLDVhM— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 21, 2023

    What have the courts said?
    The European Court of Justice today ruled Uefa and Fifa’s action regarding the European Super League “unlawful.”
    The Court said: “The Fifa and Uefa rules making any new interclub football project subject to their prior approval, such as the Super League, and prohibiting clubs and players from playing in those competitions are unlawful.
    “There is no framework for the Fifa and Uefa rules ensuring that they are transparent, objective, non-discriminatory and proportionate.
    “Similarly the rules giving Fifa and Uefa exclusive control over the commercial exploitation of the rights related to those competitions are such as to restrict competition, given their importance for the media, consumers and television viewers in the European Union.
    “The Court observes that the organisation of interclub football competitions and the exploitation of the media rights are quite evidently economic activities.
    “They must therefore comply with the competition rules and respect the freedoms of movement, even though the economic pursuit of sport has certain specific characteristics, such as the existence of associations having certain regulatory and control powers and the power to impose sanctions.”
    Real Madrid chief responds to new European Super League
    Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has welcomed today’s decision and the return of the European Super League.
    He said: “From Real Madrid we welcome with great satisfaction the decision taken by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which is responsible for guaranteeing our principles, values and freedoms. In the coming days we will carefully study the scope of this resolution, but I do anticipate two conclusions of great historical significance.
    “First of all, that European club football is not and will never be a monopoly again. And secondly, that from today the clubs will be the owners of their destiny. Clubs see fully recognized our right to propose and promote European competitions that modernize our sport and attract fans from all over the world. In short, today the Europe of freedoms has triumphed again and today soccer and its fans have also triumphed.
    “Faced with the pressures we have received for more than two years, law, reason and freedom are imposed today. And for this reason, Real Madrid will continue to work for the sake of football.
    “Just as almost seventy years ago we took a fundamental step in the history of soccer with the creation of the European Cup, today we again have the duty and responsibility to give European football the new impetus it needs so much. And for this, we will continue to defend a modern project, fully compatible with national competitions, open to all, based on sporting merit and that will effectively impose respect for financial fair play. A project that will bring economic sustainability for all clubs and that above all will protect the players and excite fans around the world.
    “We will do it despite the campaigns we have suffered and that, without a doubt, will intensify from today. But no one said that ending a monopoly after so many decades was simple.
    “We are facing the great opportunity to improve European club football. A football at the height of the 21st century, with a transparent governance, that knows how to live with new technologies and that once again provokes the passion and emotion that fans really need.
    “Let me tell the European clubs that we are facing the beginning of a new time in which we can work in freedom from constructive dialogue, without threats, without acting against anything or anyone and with the aim of innovating and modernizing football to continue nurturing the passion of the fans.
    “From today, the present and future of European football are finally in the hands of clubs, players and their fans. Our destiny belongs to us and we have a great responsibility before us.
    “This day will mark a before and after. It is a great day for the history of football and for the history of sport”.
    New ESL will be free to watch
    According to A22, the new European Super League would be free for fans to watch.
    A22 said: “The proposal also includes innovative plans to launch the world’s leading direct-to-fan sports streaming platform [called Unify], where billions of fans would be able to watch live all Super League matches for free”.
    No clubs confirmed to be taking part
    When asked which clubs are interested in the proposal, Bernd Reichart, the chief executive of A22, refused to comment.
    Outside of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, no clubs have indicated they would be willing to join A22’s proposed Super League.
    This could imply that, unlike last time, the Premier League top six could stay well clear of the new European Super League.
    Fans slam new proposal
    Fans have taken to X/Twitter to express their anger at today’s ruling.
    One supporter reacted to the court ruling saying: “RIP football as we know it 😭”
    Another added: “Football is about to be ruined then…”
    A third wrote: “We the fans still don’t want that shoddy league.”
    What is the difference between the new European Super League and the Champions League?
    A22 has been keen to differentiate its new European Super League from the updated Champions League set to launch in 2024.
    The organisation has released an image of the differences between the two tournaments:
    Credit: A22
    Football Supporters Association slams new Super League proposal
    The FSA has slammed today’s news that the European Super League will be making a return.
    You can read its full statement below:

    Barcelona release statement
    FC Barcelona have welcomed today’s decision to deem Uefa and Fifa’s actions “unlawful”.
    A statement from the club said: “FC Barcelona wishes to express its satisfaction with the sentence of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) assessing the Super League project as proposed by A22 Sports.
    “As one of the clubs driving the Super League project, FC Barcelona feels that the sentence paves the way for a new elite level football competition in Europe by opposing the monopoly over the football world, and wishes to initiate new discussions as to the path that European competitions should take in the future.
    “Since it was founded in 1899, FC Barcelona has always been a pioneering club in the world of sport, leading the drive towards more professionalised structures both on a domestic and international scale, with regard to both men’s and women’s competitions, in a variety of sports and from different social concerns.
    “Hence, as it has been maintaining in recent years, the club feels that the medium-term sustainability of European football entails the need create a concept along the lines of the Super League proposed by A22. A system of competition that will address such issues as fixture overload and the excessive number of games between national teams, that will work towards regulation of financial fair play among participating teams, and that will put local and international players and supporters at the centre.
    “This system must respect the functions and sustainability of domestic competitions and should be a meritocracy that is primarily based on results on the pitch.
    “In a year when the club is celebrating its 125th anniversary, Barça wishes to continue to offer its experience and knowledge of different sports to propose solutions for current issues in elite sport.
    “That is why it is declaring its support for the Super League promoted by A22 and encourages constructive debate among both domestic and international football bodies, which have now been endorsed by today’s sentence by the Court of Justice of the European Union. The foregoing is all subject to a complete reading of the sentence.”
    New Super League format confirmed
    Bernd Reichart, the chief executive of A22, has confirmed the format of the “new” Super League, following the ECJ’s ruling this morning.
    The new European Super League proposal features 64 teams, each in one of three tiers: Star, Gold and Blue. 
    Annual promotion and relegation will happen between each tier, this seemingly aims to address complaints of a lack of sporting fairness in previous proposals.
    Clubs will play only 14 matches per season, with the star and gold tiers consisting of 16 teams each.
    Each season will end with a knockout-style competition to determine which teams are promoted and relegated.
    UEFA and Fifa lose Super League ruling
    Following a landmark European Court of Justice ruling, the so-called European Super League could be back.
    It was ruled that Uefa and Fifa acted “unlawfully” when they blocked the tournament in 2021.
    Following the decision, new plans for an updated Super League were released. More

  • in

    Crystal Palace vs Brighton LIVE SCORE: Premier League latest as Seagulls look to bounce back against Eagles

    BRIGHTON face their second London outing in a week as they face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park – and they’ll be hoping for better result this time round.The Seagulls were comfortably beaten 2-0 by Arsenal last weekend but it could have easily been more.
    While Michael Olise’s last-gasp penalty saw Manchester City drop two more points in the title race.

    Kick-off time: 8pm GMT
    Live stream: NOW TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League

    PADDY POWER WELCOME OFFER – Get £40 in free bet builder bets
    Follow ALL the action from Selhurst Park with our live blog below… More

  • in

    Carabao Cup semi-final draw LIVE: Chelsea and Liverpool separated as huge draw made – latest reaction

    LIVERPOOL and Chelsea could meet in a mouthwatering Carabao Cup final after the big semi-final draw was made.The Blues take on Championship Middlesbrough while Liverpool face Fulham in the two-legged ties.
    Then all eyes will be on Wembley for the February 25 final.
    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below..
    Previous winners
    Who will join the list of previous League Cup winners when the final takes place in February?

    22/23 – Manchester United
    21/22 – Liverpool
    20/21 – Manchester City
    19/20 – Manchester City
    18/19 – Manchester City
    17/18 – Manchester City
    16/17 – Manchester United
    15/16 – Manchester City
    14/15 – Chelsea
    13/14 – Manchester City

    Read more on the draw
    Read our article for some more information on the draw and how everyone earned their place in the semi-finals.

    When will the semi-finals be held?
    The first leg of the semi-final ties will be played week commencing 8 January, 2024, with second leg fixtures taking place week commencing 22 January, 2024.
    The final will then take place at Wembley on February 25, 2024.
    Chelsea fans delighted
    Chelsea fans will be pleased to hear they have been handed a draw against Middlesbrough.
    Boro have done superb to get to the semi-finals, but as the only team from outside the Premier League, the Blues will be seen as clear favourites for a slot a Wembley.
    Draw in full
    Middlesbrough vs Chelsea
    Liverpool vs Fulham
    Draw complete
    And just like that the draw is complete.
    Middlesbrough and Liverpool will play host in the first leg of the fixtures before Fulham and Chelsea return the favour for the second leg.
    SEMI-FINAL NUMBER TWO
    LIVERPOOL vs FULHAM
    SEMI-FINAL NUMBER ONE
    MIDDLESBROUGH vs CHELSEA
    Here we go!
    We’re finally about to get underway for the short but important draw for the Carabao Cup semi-finals after a delay.
    Father and son duo Harry and Jamie Redknapp are present to pull the names out of the pot!
    One last reminder
    Before the teams are pulled from the hat here is one last reminder of the four sides that have made it in to the the semi-finals and their ball numbers.

    Chelsea
    Fulham
    Middlesbrough
    Liverpool

    Middlesbrough’s run
    Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough side are the only team left in the tournament from outside of the Premier League.
    The Championship outfit have put together a splendid run to earn themselves a spot in the semi-finals.
    Boro have beaten Huddersfield, Bolton, Bradford City, Exeter and Port Vale so far.
    Who will they take on next?
    Credit: Alamy
    Not far off now
    The draw is set to take place at around 10:15pm.
    Follow all of the action and reaction here.
    LIVERPOOL ENTER THE DRAW
    Liverpool have beaten West Ham 5-1 to secure their place in the semi-final draw.
    The final list of teams in the pot are as follows:

    Fulham
    Chelsea
    Middlesbrough
    Liverpool

    Moments away
    We’re now just moments away from the draw with the Liverpool vs West Ham game heading into injury time.
    It looks as if Liverpool are in the hat, but who will they face?
    All but over
    Just when West Ham looked to have a glimmer of hope of making a comeback, Liverpool have punished them.
    The Merseyside outfit have added another two goals to make the score 5-1 and look like they will inevitably be joining the others in the semi-final draw this evening.
    Ball numbers
    The ball numbers for tonight’s draw are as follows…

    Chelsea
    Fulham
    Middlesbrough
    Liverpool or West Ham

    Credit: Getty
    Hope for the Hammers
    It could be too little too late, but West Ham have pulled one back at Anfield.
    Jarrod Bowen has made it 3-1 to try and force his team through to the next round, but there’s not long left for David Moyes’ side.
    GOAL – Liverpool cruising to the semi-finals
    It looks like Liverpool will almost certainly be joining Fulham, Middlesbrough and Chelsea in the Semi’s now.
    The Red have bagged a third through Cody Gakpo and now lead West Ham 3-0.
    It’s heartbreak for the Hammers with just over 15 minutes left to play at Anfield.
    How did the teams earn their spot in the semi’s?
    Fulham, Middlesbrough and Chelsea all booked their places in the semi finals last night.
    The two Premier League clubs needed penalties to secure their way in to the next round while Boro comfortably saw off Port Vale.

    Everton 1-1 Fulham (PEN 6-7 )
    Port Vale 0-3 Middlesbrough
    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle (PEN 4-2)
    Liverpool vs West Ham (ongoing)

    Credit: Getty
    LIVERPOOL BAG ANOTHER
    Liverpool are now 2-0 up and edging closer to securing their spot in the draw!
    It’s Curtis Jones who has netted this time and the Reds look to be brushing aside West Ham at Anfield.
    Credit: Reuters
    Liverpool on track for the semi-finals
    As things stand it will be Liverpool that join the other three teams in the pot for the semi-final draw.
    The Reds currently lead West Ham 1-0 at Anfield thanks to a Dominik Szoboszlai goal.
    Who’s in the pot?
    All but one of the teams has been decided with just four sides heading in to the semi-final pot.
    The last team will be decided when we have a winner between Liverpool and West Ham tonight.

    Fulham
    Middlesbrough
    Chelsea
    Liverpool/West Ham

    CARABAO CUP SEMI-FINAL DRAW
    We are right round the corner from this year’s Carabao Cup semi-final draw as we eagerly await to see who will face who.
    The draw will take place after Liverpool’s clash with West Ham with the pair fighting it out for a place in the pot. More

  • in

    Liverpool 5-1 West Ham LIVE SCORE: Jones on the double after Salah strike as Reds cruise into Carabao Cup semi-final

    LIVERPOOL have sailed into the Carabao Cup semi-final after thrashing West Ham 5-1.Curtis Jones was on the double as Jurgen Klopp’s much-changed Reds battered the Hammers.
    Sub Mo Salah also scored as Klopp looks ahead to the huge visit of Premier League leaders Arsenal this weekend.

    Result: Liverpool 5 West Ham 1
    Liverpool XI: Kelleher, Gomez, Quansah, Virgil, Tsimikas, Szoboszlai, Endo, Jones, Elliott, Nunez, Gakpo
    West Ham XI: Areola, Coufal, Mavropanos, Ogbonna, Johnson, Alvarez, Soucek, Fornals, Kudus, Benrahma, Bowen
    Carabao Cup semi-final draw latest updates

    FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
    Follow ALL of the latest updates below…
    Confidence sky-high for crunch clash
    Liverpool now head into their huge clash with Arsenal at Anfield on the weekend full of confidence.
    In their last two games, The Reds have had 63 shots, which is an insane stat.
    Mikel Arteta will know his side will certainly have their title credentials tested Saturday evening.
    Carabao Cup semi-final draw
    Middlesbrough vs Chelsea
    Liverpool vs Fulham
    Opportunity missed for West Ham
    With the chance to get into the last four of a domestic trophy, The Hammers really failed to turn up today.
    David Moyes rotated his side and they were left wanting.
    It will disappoint the manager as he would have seen this as a chance to cause an upset at Anfield this evening.
    Boss pleased with team performance
    After the disappointment of the draw on the weekend, you can guarantee that Jurgen Klopp set his players the challenge of proving their worth this evening.
    He will have wanted a response from them, to show everyone that the Man Utd result was just a bad day at the office.
    They listened to their manager’s thoughts and went out and put in a display against West Ham tonight.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: AFP
    Reds book place in semi-finals
    Liverpool will now go into the draw for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, which will take place soon.
    The final four will consist of Jurgen Klopp’s side along with Chelsea, Fulham and Middlesbrough.
    In the next round there will be two legs to be played.
    The Reds go into the draw as favourites to win the trophy with the bookies.
    Curtis brings the gifts to Anfield
    Liverpool-born Curtis Jones put in one of his best performances for the club in this quarter-final this evening.
    From start to finish, he put in a polished display and looked to get forward and score goals whenever the chance presented itself.
    He showed the wider footballing world why the manager rates him so highly.

    FT: Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    After that goalless draw with Man Utd, that will be just what the doctor ordered for Liverpool.
    Klopp’s side were dominant from start to finish.
    West Ham just could not handle them today.

    FT: Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    The referee brings the game to a close.
    It will be a long trip home for the West Ham fans.
    Liverpool have been dominant today and deserve their victory.
    Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    90+2. Curtis Jones has been awarded man of the match today.
    The Reds pass the ball around, looking to create another opening.
    Salah tries to cross but it is deflected wide for a corner.
    Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    90. This has been a great team performance by Liverpool.
    You cannot pick out a player who has not played well really.
    Nunez is shown a yellow card as he catches the West Ham defender in the face as he tries to flick the ball.
    We are going to have four minutes added.
    Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    88. Liverpool do not seem done with this scoreline.
    They are continuing to pile forward, looking to punish the visitors every time they attack.
    David Moyes does not look happy with what he is seeing from his team.
    Liverpool 5-1 West Ham
    86. It seems crazy to think West Ham were back in this now.
    Curtis Jones weaves his way through The Hammers defence and slots the ball into the bottom corner.
    What a performance it has been by the local lad.
    Credit: Getty
    Goal – Curtis Jones (West Ham)
    Liverpool 4-1 West Ham
    84. As West Ham are attacking, Alexander-Arnold clears the ball to set Salah clear through on goal.
    He holds off the defenders and slots the ball past Areola.
    That puts the game to bed for Jurgen Klopp’s side now surely.
    Goal – Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
    Liverpool 3-1 West Ham
    82. As Liverpool come forward, looking to find a goal to kill the game off, Nunez lets fly from outside the box.
    His shot rattles the inside of the post with Areola at full stretch.
    Somehow, Salah fails to knock the rebound into an empty net as it just goes wide.
    In all fairness, it did come at him rather sharply.
    Liverpool 3-1 West Ham
    80. Liverpool have brought Luis Diaz on for a run out.
    Another goal for the visitors and this could be a nervy finish.
    As we saw in yesterday’s ties, late goals have completely changed some of these quarter-final results.
    Liverpool 3-1 West Ham
    78. We may have a game on our hands after all.
    The ball is played up to Bowen, he squares Quansah up and cuts onto his right foot.
    Bowen unleashes a bending right-footed shot into the top corner.
    Great strike.
    Goal – Jarrod Bowen (West Ham)
    Liverpool 3-0 West Ham
    76. The Reds force another corner.
    West Ham win the initial header but fail to clear their lines.
    As a result, they have to resort to hacking clear.
    Liverpool regain possession and come forward once again.
    Credit: Getty
    Liverpool 3-0 West Ham
    74. West Ham have both Paqueta and Ward-Prowse on now.
    It is a big ask of them to repair the damage that has already been done.
    Liverpool are continuing to pile on the pressure, looking for more goals.
    Liverpool 3-0 West Ham
    72. Just after Kudus narrowly sends one over the bar with their first attempt on goal of the game, Liverpool offer the ultimate sucker punch.
    Konate picks the ball up and runs through the middle of the park, the visitors just watching him.
    The defender feeds it to Gakpo, who steadies himself before burying his shot in the bottom corner of the goal from outside the box.
    Game over for The Hammers.
    Goal – Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
    Liverpool 2-0 West Ham
    70. Not a bad first touch from Bradley as he cushions it into the path of Salah in the box.
    He allows it to bounce and it just gets away from him slightly as he stretches to shoot.
    As a result he does not trouble the West Ham keeper.
    Liverpool 2-0 West Ham
    68. The travelling fans will be disappointed with this performance.
    It begs the question whether their side have failed to turn up or Liverpool have just not allowed them to get into their groove.
    Either way, time is running down and they need to find goals.
    Bradley is coming on for Tsimikas for The Reds.
    Credit: Getty More

  • in

    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle (4-2 pens) LIVE RESULT: Trippier’s nightmare match sees Blues seal Carabao Cup semi on penalties

    CHELSEA have beaten Newcastle on penalties to book their spot in the Carabao Cup semifinal – and for Kieran Tripper, it was a night to forget.Callum Wilson initially put the Toon ahead following Benoit Badioshile’s woeful defending.
    But Kieran Trippier’s mistake led to Mykhailo Mudryk scoring a stoppage-time equaliser.
    And Tripper was one of the two Newcastle players to miss a penalty in the shootout that saw the Blues go through.

    RESULT: Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle (4-2 pens)
    Live stream: NOW TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football
    Chelsea XI: Petrovic; Disasi, Silva, Badiashile, Colwill; Caicedo, Gallagher, Fernandez; Sterling, Jackson, Palmer
    Newcastle XI: Dubravka; Krafth, Lascelles, Botman, Livramento; Guimaraes, Longstaff, Miley; Almiron, Wilson, Gordon

    PADDY POWER WELCOME OFFER – Get £40 in free bet builder bets
    Follow ALL the action from Stamford Bridge with our live blog below…
    Massive result for new Chelsea boss
    This win could prove season-defining for Mauricio Pochettino.
    Had they gone out of the Carabao Cup this evening, even more questions would have been asked about the Argentine manager.
    Now, they have a semi-final draw to look forward to, knowing they are one win away from Wembley.
    Credit: AFP
    Magpies dealt devastating blow in capital
    Eddie Howe will have to try and pick his side up after this.
    They have suffered two confidence-denting exits in the space of a week.
    Newcastle need to dust themselves off and bounce back from this or risk letting it derail their season.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: Alamy
    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle (4-2 on penalties)
    Absolute drama at Stamford Bridge this evening.
    After 90 minutes of this game, Newcastle were heading into the semi-finals, with a chance of making another final.
    Now, they are heading out of the competition with Chelsea taking their place in the last four along with Middlesbrough and Fulham.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: Getty
    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle (4-2 on penalties)
    The curse of Kieran Trippier strikes at Stamford Bridge.
    He gifted Chelsea their equaliser, deep into added time, to take the game to penalties.
    Then the England full-back sent his own penalty wide of the target to give The Blues the edge in the shooutout.
    With Mauricio Pochettino’s side not missing a single spot-kick, they booked their place in the semi-finals when Petrovic saved Ritchie’s penalty.
    The stadium is rocking in West London.
    Credit: Getty
    Chelsea beat Newcastle 4-2 on penalties
    Chelsea 4-2 Newcastle
    Penalty missed – Matt Ritchie (Newcastle)
    Chelsea 4-2 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Mykhailo Mudryk (Chelsea)
    Chelsea 3-2 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)
    Chelsea 3-1 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea)
    Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle
    Penalty missed – Kieran Trippier (Newcastle)
    Chelsea 2-1 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)
    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Callum Wilson (Newcastle)
    Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle
    Penalty scored – Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
    Penalty shootout
    The penalties will be taken in front of the Newcastle fans.
    Chelsea opt to take the first spot kick.
    Moment of truth time now.
    FT: Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle
    Eddie Howe’s side will be devastated by that Mudryk goal.
    The usually dependable Trippier makes the error that has cost Newcastle their place in the semi-finals.
    If they are going to get there now, their penalty shootout game has to be on point.

    FT: Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle
    Chelsea finally get their equaliser, very late on.
    This one is going to have itself a penalty shootout.
    Guimaraes got a booking in the final stages, meaning he would miss a first leg of the semi final, should Newcastle get there.
    Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle
    90+4. A speculative ball is played in towards the back post.
    It reaches Trippier who looks to head it back to his keeper but it is well short and Mudryk runs onto it.
    He sidefoots it past Dubravka for a late equaliser.
    Absolute scenes at Stamford Bridge. More