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      in Boxing

      Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero LIVE RESULTS: Card updates as Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez feature on Times Square bill

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      SOME of boxing’s biggest names feature on tonight’s blockbuster Times Square show.Ryan Garcia headlines the huge bill as King Ryan returns from his drug ban to face Rolly Romero in New York City.Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez also feature on the huge card as they face Jose Ramirez and Arnold Barboza Jr. respectively.Should Garcia and Haney both have hands raised in Times Square, the plan is for the two to face off in a stunning rematch after their last bout was ruled a non-contest.Garcia vs Romero time: 2am BST/9pm ET (approx)TV/Stream: DAZNCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Teofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 8)Lopez is very agile and moving around the ring.He is trying to make himself a moving target for Barboza.Then he looks to surprise him with a quick attack.Having won so many of the rounds so far, the pressure is on Baraboza to take the fight to Lopez.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 7)Barboza is struggling to get inside to get his shots off.Lopez comes over the top with a right and catches his opponent.The eye Barboza seems to be starting to swell a little.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 6)Barboza got himself back into this fight more in this one.The pundits do not see many rounds having gone to Barboza so far but that might be the first one.He caught Lopez well with a counter right hand that has caused a cut to the eye of the champion.Copy linkCopiedTeofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza JrTwo rounds have passed in this encounter which has Lopez’s WBO super-lightweight belt on the line. An aggressive start from Teo, who is operating with a more purposeful combination work in a lot of traffic in the middle of the ring. Copy linkCopiedGarcia is in the building…or in the vicinity of it, as we are outdoors after all, where fighters need taxis to get to the main stage. The main event is scheduled for 1am BST (5pm PT, 6pm CT, 8pm ET). Copy linkCopiedReito Tsutsumi UD6 Levale WhittingtonFor a pair of fighters boasting a combined three-match experience log, the display from the two was far beyond in skill and canvas craft.22-year-old Tsutsumi probed Whittington with more purposeful intent, working his American opponent on several occasions with the true power to threaten a knockout, landing twice the punches. At the end of the fifth round, Whittington’s trainer described his performance as one who “looked like someone stole their puppy.”The Japanese talent who aims to go far in the sport stood out in his first outing, as the judges’ scores were 60-54, 60-54 and 58-56-108. We now enter our stretch of key three main fights, starting with Arnold Barboza Jr. and Teofimo Lopez. Copy linkCopiedView from the groundHere’s how the streets of the fight location are looking from our very own Israel Salas-Rodriguez, including Arnold Barboza Jr. arrival: Copy linkCopiedFight Night readingIncludes a pair of exclusives with Teofimo Lopez and Ryan Garcia: Copy linkCopiedBattle of the BadgesWe’ve seen our first winner of the night… Action was opened up by the understated Battle of the Badges clash as amateur pair, New York firefighter James Gennari and an NYPD officer, Joel Allen went at it in the three-round affair with the former coming out on top.Ring ambassador Reito Tsutsumi makes his pro debut next. Copy linkCopiedPacquiao RETURNSElsewhere, a living legend continues to make headlines as the 46-year-old aims to make a return to the ring since… 2021. Copy linkCopiedTimes Square card Here’s how our bill is looking for tonight; Garcia, who returns to action after serving a year-long drug suspension, will dust-up in the main event with Rolando Romero.Copy linkCopiedPart IEvening and welcome to the first day of three fantasticly set-up nights of boxing weekend ahead with a bit of everything for the sport’s connoisseur. The best two in the business, Canelo Álvarez and Naoya Inoue, will contend in sport’s growing hotbeds, Riyadh and Vegas, but we start in New York as Ryan Garcia and co headline a monumental bill. The card, like most of boxing’s big nights nowadays, has been organised by The Ring Magazine and its chief Saudi matchmaker Turki Alalshikh. Their aim has been simple from the offset: to transcend the sport past its traditional barriers, and will accomplish that as the outdoor conditions of Times Squares host the event. The streets of Manhattan will bear viewing for free as screens will be plastered around, with a select few being able to watch ringside. “This is going to be very difficult for every single fighter,” said promoter Oscar De La Hoya at Thursday’s weigh-in. “As you can imagine, there will be people everywhere, distractions everywhere.”Stay tuned for all the night’s latest.Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Athletic Bilbao vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: United with one foot in Europa League final after thrashing ten-men Spaniards

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have firmly put one foot in the Europa League final after tearing Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their thrilling semis.Casemiro nodded the visitors in front off the back of some Lamine Yamal-esque sily skills on the wing from Harry Maguire.Things then went from bad to worse for the hosts as Dani Vivian pulled Rasmus Hojlund down in the box which led to a red card and a coolly dispatched Bruno Fernandes penalty.And Fernandes then grabbed his second and United’s third of the night to give them a commanding lead to take back to Old Trafford next week.RESULT: Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…United roll back the yearsAthletic Bilbao may claim that they will head to England next week with the belief they can turn this tie around, but history is not on their side.In fact, of the 133 teams to have won the first leg of a UEFA Cup/Europa League knockout stage tie by 3+ goals away from home, every single one has gone on to progress.Tonight’s 3-0 win at San Mames was also Manchester United’s biggest away win in a semi-final of a major European competition.And in scoring three first half goals, the Red Devils did so in a European knockout away game for the first time since a European Cup quarter-final at Benfica in 1966 when George Best (2) and John Connelly were on target for Matt Busby’s team.Copy linkCopiedAthletic will travel with confidenceThe Europa League semi-final between Manchester United and Athletic Bilbao is not yet over, according to one of the Spanish side’s defenders.Yeray Alvarez insists that the Basque outfit will travel to Old Trafford full of hope, and with the upmost confidence that they can stage a comeback.It’s been a hard blow, we came in with spirits high. But we still have 90 minutes left, we have confidence, and we need to go there to make the comeback and try to turn it around. The word ‘confidence’ is what we need to focus on, and go there with the greatest of hopes.Yeray AlvarezUefa.comCopy linkCopiedBruno delivers two more knockout blowsWith his two strikes in Bilbao this evening, Bruno Fernandes took his goal involvements total to an astonishing 35 in all competitions this season (19 goals and 16 assists).Only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (56) has been directly involved in more goals for a Premier League side in all competitions this campaign.Copy linkCopiedOn the United agendaDespite a significant first leg lead, Ruben Amorim has already indicated that he will manage his squad’s playing minutes ahead of next Thursday’s return tie with Athletic Bilbao.That’s likely to mean fringe players get game time against Brentford in the Premier League on Sunday, while it would not be a surprise to see the Portuguese coach rotate his first team in the remaining games before the Europa League final back in Bilbao in three weeks. Copy linkCopiedMaguire magic sparks memorable nightA historic night for Manchester United may be best remembered for the scintillating wingplay from Harry Maguire in the build-up to Casemiro’s opening goal.The defender left Mikel Jaureguizar for dead twice before delivering a fine cross that was eventually turned into, prompting social media users to coin him Maguire-dinho.Afterwards, Ruben Amorim laughed and said: “He’s a good winger. There are moments in our lives, and Harry has had difficult moments, but now everything he does is good for the team so he has to enjoy this.” Copy linkCopiedAmorim warns against complacencyManchester United boss Ruben Amorim insisted that his players still have work to do in next week’s second leg despite their impressive showing in Bilbao.And the Portuguese coach was also quick to point out that first leg in San Mames essentially turned on one moment – the sending off of Dani Vivian – and something similar could occur at Old Trafford if they took their eye of the ball.The result is really good, but we have to understand the result at the same time. We struggled a lot at the beginning and the sending off changed the game. Any game can change with one situation. We had an opportunity to score one more. This is not done and they can do the same at Old Trafford.Ruben AmorimTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMaguire: We’ve one foot in the finalManchester United’s wing wizard Harry Maguire believes his side have done the hard work and have one foot in the Europa League final.The defender set up the opening goal with some marvellous play on the right flank, and afterwards spoke about a great performance and result.However, the 32-year-old was quick to state that they’ll need more of the same next week to see the job through.It was a clinical first half, and professional second half. It’s a great victory in the end but we’ve another big game next week. All the pressure is on us now, and everyone will expect us to get into the final. So next Thursday we need to make sure we prepare like we’ve done in this game, and if we do we give ourselves a great opportunity to make the final. It’s been a great night for us, we’ve one foot in the final but it’s still not done.Harry MaguireTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from San MamesCopy linkCopiedAn all English final awaits?The Premier League taking over Bilbao later this month looks a distinct possibility.Not only did United win convincingly here this evening, Spurs also registered a first leg advantage.The only downside for the Londoners was an 83rd-minute Bodo Glimt goal that offers the Norwegian some hope ahead of the second leg.Europa League semi-final, first leg results:Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdTottenham 3-1 Bodo GlimtCopy linkCopiedFull time – Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Man UtdA result beyond Manchester United dreams.The English giants would have been happy heading back to Old Trafford on level terms, but instead they’ll take a three-goal advantage into next week’s second leg – a leg attached to the one foot already in the final.A trio of goals – two from Bruno Fernandes including a penalty – in a barmy 15-minute first half spell has the Red Devils in charge.Barring a miracle or a disaster, United will be back in three weeks’ time for the Europa League showpiece.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90+4. With the last kick of the game, Alvaro Djalo thumps a 30-yard free-kick straight at Onana.The United keeper is no stranger to a mistake, but does his job to preserve a clean sheet and his side’s dominant lead in the tie.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd90. Manchester United are four minutes of stoppage time away from an excellent night’s work.Gomez tries to get Athletic on the scoresheet ahead of the return but his header is high and wide of Onana’s goal.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd89. It’s keep ball for Ruben Amorim’s team now.That said, you do get the impression that Bruno Fernandes wants his hat-trick.The United captain is the only look still looking to push forward when he gets on the ball.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd87. United are seeing this one through to its conclusion.The visitors have had 70% of the ball tonight, and twice as many attempts and attacks as Athletic Bilbao.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd84. Ruben Amorim spoke about getting minutes in the legs of some his squad players, and that’s exactly what he’s doing.Kobbie Mainoo is on, and so too is Amad Diallo for his first appearance since February 7th.Alejandro Garnacho and Patrick Dorgu make way.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd82. Agirrezabala has made a couple of reflex stops to retain any slim hope that the La Liga outfit still had.Bilbao’s stand-in goalkeeper has denied both Garnacho and Fernandes in the last couple of minutes.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd80. With ten minutes remaining, it’s already looking like an all-English Europa League final – and that’s with another leg to go.Not only are United cruising 3-0 here, Spurs lead by the same scoreline at home to Bodo Glimt.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn in BilbaoAthletic coach Ernesto Valverde was the Barcelona coach when they threw away a 3-0 lead at Anfield six years ago.So he knows from personal experience that miracles can happen.But the task facing his team from here is even bigger than the one Liverpool managed that night. United could have added to their three goals but Casemiro sent a header against the post.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd77. Mason Mount is penalised for a trip on Maroan Sannadi.The substitute avoids a booking, but Bruno Fernandes is yellow carded, I think, for kicking the ball away.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd74. Luke Shaw is on for a slice of the action.It’s a straight swap with the wing-back replacing Noussair Mazraoui on the left.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd72. Athletic continue to look for Nico Williams as a first option when retrieving possession, but it hasn’t clicked tonight.In fact, we’ve seen very little of the Spanish international.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd69. Somebody just described Mason Mount as looking like an old American actor playing Mason Mount in a film adaptation, and I can’t stop thinking about it.It’s spot on.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd67. United are playing this well, and are continuing to find space when they choose to counter.Garnacho finds room in the box to strike at goal, only for Paredes get across to bravely block.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd65. Harry Maguire is still the focus of home displeasure after his involvement in that tangle with Maroan Sannadi.And with that in mind, Ruben Amorim moves to replace the centre-back.The returning Matthijs De Ligt is on in is place while Mason Mount takes over from Manuel Ugarte.Copy linkCopiedAthletic Bilbao 0-3 Man Utd63. Who said Casemiro’s legs have gone?The Brazilian has been excellent tonight, rolling back the years with his midfield dominance.In fact, he goes close to adding his second of night with a looping effort that clips off the bar.Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Djurgarden vs Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Conference League semi-final updates as Blues run rout in Sweden thanks to Jackson

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      CHELSEA take a comfortable advantage against Djurgarden back to Stamford Bridge following a rout in the first leg of their Conference League semi-final.The Blues controlled early exchanges before Jadon Sancho got on the end of a quick move to slide it past the hapless Jacob Rinne in goal with the aid of a deflection. Chelsea’s dominance would become more substantial as winger Noni Maaduke swept home a finish from yards out following a swift interchange. In the interval the West Londoners would make three changes, with Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson both getting a run-out. Jackson would display a fresh pair of wheels and impetus as he pick-pocketed a mistake from the hosts defensive unit to waltz the third in on the hour mark. Five minutes later, the Senegalese striker would grab his second and his side fourth to extend the rout. Nonetheless, the hosts commendable effort would result in a goal a few minutes later as Isak Alemayehu Mulugeta headed in from a few yards out. Full-time result: Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Enzo’s Reg verdictEnzo Maresca tried to keep a calm head over new starlet Reggie Walsh.The Chelsea chief said: “He is young, he looks very good.”But he needs to continue to work and learn and grow.”Walsh, 16, has been with the Blues for nine years.Copy linkCopiedFans raving over ReggieChelsea fans loved 16-year-old Reggie Walsh making his debut.The smiling midfielder exchanged touching moments with far more senior team-mates – as well as manager Enzo Maresca – as he came on for a cameo in Stockholm.Viewers enjoyed this heartwarming moment as Enzo Maresca brought on Reggie Walsh in the Conference League semi-finalCredit: ReutersOne supporter posted: “Maresca should be praised for bringing in youngsters and taking care of their professional career.”Others called Walsh “super good” and “great” with a fourth saying: “Good shift.”However, one fan lamented: “God, I feel old.”The Blues themselves heralded Walsh’s 88th-minute arrival as a sub by posting: “A proud moment for young Reggie Walsh who comes on for his Chelsea debut!”Copy linkCopiedTwo-goal hero Jackson hails team effortTwo-goal sub Nicolas Jackson says Chelsea should be chuffed with their smooth victory.Jackson told TNT Sports: “Very good performance. “The most important thing is that we won. It is one step forward and we hope to reach the final.”Nicolas Jackson hit Chelsea’s last two goals in a 4-1 winCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEnzo celebrates ‘perfect night’Chelsea chief Enzo Maresca claims the 4-1 Conference League fist-leg win at Djurgarden couldn’t have gone better.Maresca told TNT Sports: “It was the perfect night – an important semi-final and it is a good result.”But he warned: “We need to be focused on the second leg.”The first 70 minutes was good but then in the last 20 minutes we dropped a little bit. “But we cannot drop, we cannot relax because otherwise it is complicated. “We have done a good job but now we need to finish the job at home.”Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea – one foot in finalSub Nicolas Jackson struck twice to put Chelsea one leg away from the Conference League final.And it should be a Stamford Bridge cruise through next week.CLICK BELOW FOR OUR FULL MATCH REPORTCopy linkCopiedRESULT: Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaEfficiency all round for the Blues – with a well-deserved three-goal winning margin.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea90. There’s a rare flare-up as Chelsea react angrily to a foul and a niggle from Tobias Gulliksen – who is booked.We’ve two minutes of added timeCopy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea87. The Blues are finding regular gaps now.And Maresca brought on 16-year-old debutant Reggie Walsh – for fellow teenager George.And Walsh almost netted an excellent effort with his first touch.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea82. Djurgarden are doing all they can – creating sparks of pressure.But there’s a class gap.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea79. Stahl blazed high for Djurgarden.And neither he nor his team-mates could believe he missed.But at least the Swedes are fighting.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaIt was actually quite embarrassing for Chelsea that Djurgarden scored a goal. They are terrible, writes ANDY DILLON.The ironic cheers from their fans in celebration told you just what a mismatch this is.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea77. Dewsbury-Hall slotted a low left-wing corner that was half-cleared.Palmer’s firm sidefoot from the edge of the box was then parried away.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaPredictably the Blues are cruising now.And with Caicedo an impressive presence in the middle there looks little way back for the Swedes.74. But then Nguen wriggled through, only to be blocked out near the Blues’ six-yard box.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 ChelseaChelsea quickly regained the impetus.And they are passing the ball around in relaxed style.72. Sancho is squeezed out down the left after Palmer got in on the action down the middle. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 1-4 Chelsea68. Sub Isak Alemayehu nodded home at the back post – for a surprise and instant reply.That’s the 18-year-old’s first goal at senior level – with Gulliksen the supplier via a teasing left-wing cross.And what a reception that goal got!Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 1-4 ChelseaCopy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 0-4 ChelseaDjurgarden are showing plenty of spirit.But you just sense that Chelsea will have not just one or two, but a few opportunities on the counter-attack.64. Sure enough, Jackson dispatched a wonderful fourth goal – shifting the ball onto his left foot for a top-corner special just inside the box.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-3 ChelseaJackson was just chasing a hopeful long ball down the middle.But as he homed in on the box, the hosts’ keeper and defender dallied, then made the situation worse as they attempted to clear.Jackson squirmed the ball past them – and was left with a tap-in when the ball broke towards goal.Technically Palmer was the goal provider – but Djurgarden had most of the responsibility.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Djurgarden 0-3 Chelsea59. Jackson is gifted Chelsea’s third from an incredible mix-up between keeper and defender.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea57. The pace has dipped a bit now.But Finndell had a shot blocked away to prevent any hint of danger.Djurgarden are straight back on the attack, though. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 ChelseaSo far the Blues look weaker after bringing on four first-choice stars at the break.But that’s a lot to do with Djurgarden’s raised tempo.And the Swedes might have to profit from this spell pretty quickly – as Chelsea will surely settle again soon. Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea54. Palmer’s first intervention – but he’s blocked out in the box with the minimum of fuss.But at least it’s some sort of response from Chelsea.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 ChelseaIt’s such a different game now.Djurgarden have decided urgency and pressing are the only tactics.52. Nguen was denied to spark more pressureForgensen then produced a top-quality save.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea50. Finn margins!Djurgarden’s corner was eventually taken.And the ensuing scramble on the edge of the box led to Finndell lashing a low right-footer wide.Copy linkCopiedDjurgarden 0-2 Chelsea48. The Swedes have had plenty of possession early in the second period.And Chelsea sub Chalobah has just conceded a corner.Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham vs Bodo/Glimt LIVE SCORE: Europa League semi-final updates as last-8 hero Saltnes narrows Lillywhites lead

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      TOTTENHAM hold comfortable lead against Bodo/Glimt despite having lead narrowed in the closing stages in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final. The Norwegian champions entered the contest with a depleted squad as several key players are missing the trip due to suspension or injury.Spurs, who are unbeaten in their last 14 Europa League matches at home, were headed into the lead as fellow winger Richarlison flicked the ball into Brennan Johnson path to tuck away inside the opening 40 seconds. Following a period of superiority, Pedro Porro’s looping ball would bypass the Glimt backline and locate James Maddison, who would take it down and finish with the utmost composure. Striker Dominic Solanke would add a third after the referee adjudged Cristian Romero to be clipped by the ankle in a knee-high challenge for the ball. Ulrik Saltnes, who scored the brace to aid Bodo’s progression to this stage, showed a clean set of feet before bending his strike with aid of a deflection to narrow Spurs’ lead. Full-time result: Spurs 3-1 Bodo/GlimtCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Spurs dominate huge occasionThe atmosphere outside the stadium hours before kick-off really showed how much this meant to the Tottenham fans.A semi-final in Europe does not come along every day after all.Tottenham played the perfect game as they dominated from start to finish but the one blemish on their resume would be conceding a goal during one of their best periods of the match.Copy linkCopiedNorway Spurs can let this goTottenham have themselves in a great position heading into the second-leg with a two-goal lead.They will be the favourites to progress to the final to meet the winners of Man Utd and Athletic Club.The competition offers Postecoglou’s side a chance to secure Champions League football next season, something their league position is nowhere near being able to offer.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedBoss hoping niggles not an issueFor most Tottenham fans, it would have been a real concern seeing both James Maddison and Dominic Solanke come off injured.They need both of these attacking threats for the trip to Norway if they hope on progressing to the final.After the match, Ange Postecoglou told TNT Sports that these were just niggles and he was being safe by deciding to rotate his squad.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAussie having reason to smileIt has been a tough campaign for Ange Postecoglou, often having to field very awkward questions with the media.The manager always said that he wins trophies in his second season with clubs and this may be no different in North London.Seeing his team get into a three-goal lead, the manager seemed very pleased with their showing in this first-leg of the Europa League semi-final.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSouth American puts in shift for LillywhitesRodrigo Bentancur covered a lot of ground for Tottenham tonight.Often doing the work that goes unnoticed, the Uruguayan was integral to the win in the capital.It will smart having seen the visitors’ goal deflect off him and beat his own keeper but he will no doubt use that as motivation in his performance in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedTottenham show focus to tacticsAfter the game the players spoke about how they had identified that this Bodo/Glimt side tend to grow into games and they planned to get straight at them.They played out their manager’s tactics perfectly as they scored with less than a minute on the clock.That complete deflated the visitors and led to Spurs controlling the game but conceding the late consolation goal will not have been part of the script they were given.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAnge to stay focussed on finalThe goal from Bodo/Glimt will have been celebrated in East London this evening.Tottenham travel to struggling West Ham on the weekend and the fact that tie now hangs in the balance, is likely to affect team selections.Postecoglou will not risk any of his key players, with nothing to play for in the Premier League other than pride.Copy linkCopiedBig man gets his goal in semiSpeaking with TNT Sports, goalscorer Dominic Solanke gave his view on his team’s performance:Yeh we are pleased with the performance, it is nice to have a two-goal lead. We know the tie is not done and it will be a tough game over there. I think it was not ideal to concede late on, we wanted to take the clean sheet and three goal lead over there. It doesn’t change it much we know we need to go there and score. Dominic SolankeTottenhamCopy linkCopiedBrits looking for epic meetingWith two Premier League sides heading into the Europa League semi-finals, most neutrals would love to see them meet in Spain in the final.While Tottenham take a two-goal lead to Norway, Man Utd won 3-0 in Spain against Athetic Club.It is all set up for an all-English final if everything goes according to plan in the second-legs next week.Copy linkCopiedGaffer has his say on winSpeaking with TNT Sports, Postecoglou shared his thoughts:Yeh look I thought in terms of performance, I could not ask anymore from the lads. We were dominant, I don’t think the scoreline reflects that. All you can ask from a first leg is that you get yourselves into a good position and I think we have done that. It just the way of our season but nothing too serious with the injuries. We decided to take them off as more of safety measure. Ange PostecoglouTottenhamCopy linkCopiedA game of fine margins Tottenham almost put in the perfect display this evening.Scoring after only 40 seconds, they never looked back and seemed in total control of this game.However, Bodo/Glimt’s first shot on target in the match took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it past Vicario in the Spurs’ goal.That now means this is a completely different tie when Postecoglou’s side head to Norway next week.Credit: ReutersCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedScorer gives thoughts on gameSpeaking with TNT Sports after the game, Johnson spoke about his side’s performance:Yeh we are pleased, I think before the game if you had offered us a two-goal cushion we would have taken it. Disappointed to concede towards the end but this is how it goes. We knew we had to be onto them straight away and getting the early goal we did just that. Brennan JohnsonTottenhamCopy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThat deflected goal for the visitors has completely changed the mood in North London.With Bodo/Glimt having such a good home record, this one really hangs in the balance.Spurs still have a lot of work to do in Norway next week.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in North LondonSuddenly – and unnecessarily – next week looks interesting. Bodo fans are bouncing  and singing. Spurs  paid the price for taking the foot off the gas and not going in for the kill. The visitors’ first bit of decent play in and around the Tottenham box brought a goal for stand-in captain Ulrik Saltnes. Suspended skipper Patrick Berg and midfield partner Hakon Evjen will be back for the return, in which the Norwegians now have a glimmer of hope. It would be criminal if Spurs found a way not to reach the final. Yet Bodo have a formidable home record on their artificial pitch. Dejan Kulusevski missed a later chance and what should have been an unequivocally positive night for Tottenham had the shine taken off it.Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 3-1 Bodo-GlimtThe referee brings this first-leg to a close.A comfortable win for Spurs in front of their own fans.That consolation goal gives the visitors hope in this tie however.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+4. Kulusevski forces a late corner for Spurs.Porro whips it in but Gundersen is first to it once again.He has dominated the aerial duels in this second-half.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90+2. It all seems a little nervy in the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.Losing Maddison and Solanke has made a big difference the spine of this team. Bodo/Glimt are growing in confidence here.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt90. A lot of Tottenham fans are making their way to the exits.It always make you wonder with these types of fans, top-flight football is known for its dramatic finishes.They are about to miss five added minutes in the capital.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt88. Porro looks to whip a cross in from out wide but it takes a deflection behind for a corner.What Totenham would give for another goal now.On this occasion Gundersen heads clear for the visitors.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt86. The Norwegians have a great record at home in this competition this season, having won all their games by two goals or more.As a result of that goal from Saltnes, this tie is back in the balance.Stick or twist time for Bodo/Glimt now.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-1 Bodo-Glimt84. Bodo/Glimt score from their first shot on target.The effort from Saltnes took a big deflection off Bentancur to take it up over Vicario.If they could get another goal this would be seen as a decent result away from home.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Ulrik Saltnes (Bodo/Glimt)Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt82. The Norwegians are looking a little punch-drunk here.In all their games in the competition so far, they have always been competitive.That has not been the case so far in North London.Copy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt80. What a night this could be in the Europa League semi-finals.Both English teams three-nil, up from their first-legs.Kulusevski has some time and space in the box but he shoots early and it deflects behind for a corner.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTottenham 3-0 Bodo-Glimt78. Tottenham will be worried about the injuries to Solanke and Maddison.With Bergvall sat on the sidelines with a boot on, they do not need any more concerns on that front.Udogie gets down the left and tries to shoot from an impossible angle, much to the dismay of Johnson in the middle.Copy linkCopied More

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      Barcelona vs Inter Milan LIVE RESULT: Raphinha’s screamer sees thrilling six-goal Champions League semi-final end level

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      BARCELONA and Inter Milan’s scintillating Champions League semi-final first leg has come to an end – and it was one for the history books!Marcus Thuram scored with an audacious flick inside THIRTY SECONDS before Denzel Dumfries followed up with a spectacular bicycle kick a little over twenty minutes later.Lamine Yamal scored a solo strike to make it 2-1, and then Ferran Torres temporarily levelled the scoreline.Dumfries then popped up with his second goal of the night to restore Inter’s lead, but a minute later, Raphina fired one in from long range, which rattled the bar before deflecting in off Yann Sommer.RESULT: Barcelona 3-3 InterLive stream: Discovery+TV channel: TNT Sports 1Barcelona starting XI: Scczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; FerranInter starting XI: Sommer; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitarayan, Dimarco; Martinez, ThuramBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from Estadi Olimpic with our live blog below…Inzaghi impressed by generational talentSimone Inzaghi believes Lamine Yamal is the kind of footballer that comes along once in a generation.Speaking after his side’s 3-3 draw at Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, the Inter coach admitted he was impressed after seeing the 17-year-old perform in person.However, Inzaghi also revealed he was delighted with how his players responded to the task of tracking the teenager, and hopes for more of the same in the second leg.At half-time, we changed a little. We had to mark Lamine Yamal even better – that guy really impacted on me tonight. He really did. So we wanted to play and press much higher up the pitch. My guys didn’t have much rest after the Roma game, but they gave everything and impressed me. Lamine is the kind of talent that comes along every 50 years, and to see him up close really impressed me. I’m really enthusiastic about what my lads did. They worked really hard against him, doubling and tripling up on himSimone InzaghiTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedBarca face ‘final before final’According to Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, Barcelona will have to win two finals to be crowned European champions.The German tactician was proud of how his side fought back after a slow start at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, but knows a huge test awaits them in Milan next Tuesday.We didn’t start well tonight, but we got right back into the match. The second half was spectacular. There’s one leg of this tie left and we have to win it. I think this qualifies for that description of the ‘final before the final!Hansi FlickTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedRaphinha revelling on the biggest stageWhile Lamine Yamal stole the headlines, it was another excellent evening for Raphinha.The former Leeds ace forced Barcelona’s third goal with a stunning strike that eventually went in off Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer.The Brazilian also set up Ferran Torres for the second, an assist that took his goal involvements in this season’s Champions League to 20 (12 goals and 8 assists)It means only Cristiano Ronaldo (17 goals and 4 assists in 2013-14) has registered more goal involvements in a single Champions League campaign.Meanwhile, only Luís Figo (9 in 1999-00) has provided more assists in a single season in the competition than Raphinha’s eight this term.Copy linkCopiedMkhitaryan: We couldn’t stop YamalInter star Henrikh Mkhitaryan admitted that he and his teammates struggled to cope with 17-year-old superstar Lamine Yamal.The Spanish teenager came to the fore with Barcelona 2-0 down and dragged his side back into the tie.And afterwards, former United midfielder Mkhitaryan spoke in glowing terms of the winger, but added that the Italian outfit were determined not to allow him so much space in the return. The whole world can see what a good footballer he is. He’s a player who shines. We tried to stop him, but that was so difficult because he’s got great talent. I hope we don’t let him play this much next week.Henrikh MkhitaryanTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedYoung Yamal in good companyBarca superstar Lamine Yamal became just the second teenager to score in the last 16, quarter-final and semi-final within a single Champions League campaign.The other? A certain Kylian Mbappe for Monaco in 2016-17.Copy linkCopiedFast off the MarcMarcus Thuram’s audacious opener after exactly 30 seconds was the second earliest goal Internazionale have ever scored in a Champions League tie, after Dejan Stankovic’s equally flamboyant strike against Schalke in April 2011 (26 seconds).It was also the second earliest goal Barcelona have conceded from the start of a game in the competition after Alexandre Pato’s strike for Milan in September 2011 (24 seconds).Copy linkCopiedYamal lights up Champions LeagueAt 17 years and 291 days, Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever scorer in a Champions League semi-final, a record previously held by Kylian Mbappw (18y 140d).Tonight was also Yamal’s 100th appearance for Barcelona across all competitions with only Jules Koundé (107) and Robert Lewandowski (104) having played more games for the club since the Spaniard’s debut in April 2023.Copy linkCopiedMatch Stats from Estadi Olímpic Lluís CompanysAnd so ends the joint-highest scoring Champions League semi-final game, ranking alongside a 3-3 draw between Dynamo Kyiv and Bayern Munich in the first leg of their clash in 1998-99.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Barcelona 3-3 InterThere’s your answer.An incredible night of football comes to a close, but it’s all set up for more of the same in Milan next Tuesday.This crazy, chaotic evening of Champions League football was full of sublime skill, wonder goals and shambolic defending.Inter led 2-0 and then 3-2, but Barca fought back on each occasion to ensure a memorable contest ended all square.Seventeen-year-old Lamine Yamal starred for the hosts, while Denzil Dumfries picked up the Man of the Match award with two goals and an assist.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter90. Three minutes of stoppage time are signalled just as Raphinha unleashes another belter from long range.Sommer tips this one over for a corner, and as Barca’s brilliant Brazilian rushes over to take it, he urges the crowd for one last push.Can they find a winner? Or will Inter stick it out?Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter89. It’s a late charge from Barcelona!Inter have every player behind the ball as the Spanish giants move it left and right in an attempt to make space.The Serie A side are sticking to the task though, and will be delighted if they can see these final minutes through.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter87. Off the crossbar!Yamal also steers Barca in front for the first time with an audacious chip, an effort that catches out opponents, fans and commentators alike.The lift on the run is so delicate that Sommer doesn’t even move as it rises up and over him, and back off the woodwork.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter84. Barcelona have only ever won once away at Inter Milan, and that was back in 1959.If they want to take a lead with them to Italy, then they will need to find another goal in these remaining minutes.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter82. One of La Masia’s golden generation replaces another as Gavi comes on to take over from Pedri.Also for Barca is former Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen, and he takes over from Pau Cubarsí.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter80. Inside the final ten minutes of what has been an extraordinary night in Spain.Two of Inter’s stars – Marcus Thuram and Denzil Dumfries – will play no further part this evening, and it’s time for Piotr Zielinski and Matteo Darmian to play their role from the bench.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter77. Yamal teases Barella into conceding a free-kick 22 yards out, and this is very much in Raphinha range.The Brazilian immediately takes charge of the set-piece, and who can blame him given his form this season?His left-foot effort around the wall is sweet enough, but Sommer uses all of his experience to comfortably deal with it.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter74. Henrikh Mkhitaryan has the ball in the back of the net for a fourth Inter goal……but it’s not going to count.The offside flag was immediately up as soon as the Armenian had swept in a terrific Dumfries cross, but it seems a lot closer than everyone initially thinks.In fact, replays show it’s incredibly close.Eventually, the offside call is upheld, but trust me, there was barely anything in it.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter72. Cubarsi picks up a yellow card for a shirt pull on Taremi.Again, considering the high line that the hosts operate with, you wouldn’t want to be a Barcelona defender on a booking.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter70. A brilliant recovery challenge from Pau Cubarsi denies Thuram a strike on goal.Mind you, it was only some careless defending from the Spaniard and Barcelona’s ridiculous high line that let the Inter striker through in the first place.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter67. What happens next in this tie?!Whatever does occur, it won’t involve Dani Olmo, who has now been replaced by Fermin Lopez.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 3-3 Inter65. What a belter from Raphinha!Seconds after falling behind, Barca hit back through a corner of their own – and this one has a lot more finesse about it.Dani Olmo pulls back the dead ball towards the edge of the penalty area, Lamine Yamal lets it run through his legs, and Raphinha races on to it to smash.The shot arrows through the air from 25 yards out, crashes against the crossbar, and ricochets into the net off the back of Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer.It will go down as an own goal, but owes so much to a stunning strike from the former Leeds man.Copy linkCopiedLevel again!Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 2-3 Inter65. This game is absurd. Absolutely ridiculous. Daft as anything I’ve seen in a while.And I coach an Under 6s team on Saturday mornings.Copy linkCopiedBarcelona 2-3 Inter63. Well, well, well! Inter Milan are back in front!This one lacks the flair of the first two, but is every bit as important.Hakan Calhanoglu swings over a corner from the right, and Denzil Dumfries gets up to nod in without much of a challenge.The Dutchman’s header comes off the shoulder of Dani Olmo, and that probably helps it to find the target.Internazionale have struck three times in Barcelona!Copy linkCopiedDouble for Denzil!Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal vs PSG LIVE RESULT: Dembele’s stunning early strike gives Parisians the advantage in Champions League semi-final

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      PSG have beaten Arsenal 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.Ousmane Dembele broke the deadlock after just four minutes with a stunning strike into the bottom right corner.Gianluigi Donnarumma made a huge save to deny Gabriel Martinelli at the end of the first-half as the Parisians went into the interval a goal to the good.After the break, Mikel Merino thought he had levelled the tie, but VAR ruled out the Spaniard’s goal for a marginal offside.Donnarumma was busy again just before the hour mark, getting down well to his right to prevent Leandro Trossard the equaliser.With minutes to go at the Emirates, Goncalo Ramos raced through on goal and struck the bar as Arsenal managed to escape going two down in the tie.The Gunners have it all to do in Paris next week as they look to progress to the Champions League final for the first time since 2006.Match result: Arsenal 0-1 PSGArsenal starting team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Odegaard, Rice, Merino, Saka, Trossard, MartinelliPSG starting team: Donnarumma, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes, Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz, Doue, Dembele, KvaratskheliaBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from The Emirates with our live blog below…Mammoth tie awaits in ParisArseal’s season will all come down to a clash at the Parc des Princes against PSG next week.Their whole season rests upon it as their only chance of silverware.A goal down from the first-leg, they need to do the unthinkable and go and win in France.These are the moments that separate the best from the rest.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMikel always drawing positivesWhen doing his media duties after games, Arteta will always talk about what his side did well and rue how things did not go their way.He did that this evening when talking about how Merino was millimetres offside for their disallowed goal.As we saw on the graphic, he was off by half a yard.It is all well and good protecting your players from criticism as all good managers should, but behind the scenes he needs to identify their failings.Arsenal dominate possession in games but show no penetration in the final third for large portions of games.They cannot afford to do that at the Parc des Princes if they want to make this season’s final.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedYoungster struggles to deal with defenderBukayo Saka did not have the sort of impact he was hoping for this evening against PSG.Nuno Mendes did a similar job on Mohamed Salah when they played Liverpool in the competition over two-legs.The Arsenal winger will need to work with his coaches to see how he can one over the PSG defender when they travel to Paris.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSpaniard has bragging rights in capitalPSG boss Luis Enrique spoke about his side’s win at The Emirates:Well, I think emotions are that high it is difficult to analyse. I think we show what kind of team we are and we score the first goal in the first two or three minutes. It is still going to be a very tough match in Paris. That is the work of goalkeepers is it not, that is what they are to do. We need to prepare for the second match, it is going to be difficult. We have a small advantage but we have to play like we did today.Luis EnriquePSGCopy linkCopiedVisitors win all key battlesPSG came to the capital knowing that they needed to shutdown the supply of Arsenal’s key players.They did just that with Martin Odegaard.The Norwegian struggled to get the ball in key areas where he could hurt Luis Enrique’s side.Copy linkCopiedBoss gives view on performanceSpeaking with Amazon Prime after the game, Arteta gave his thought’s on the defeat in North London:We are disappointed with the result. We put so much into the game. I think after the goal we got better and better and better. Credit to them, they got the goal and were clinical. Sometimes you have to recognise the talent of the opposition. Trossard was millimetres offside and these are the fine margins. It is half-time and we have a big chance to make the final. Mikel ArtetaArsenalCopy linkCopiedGunners breaking unwanted recordsTonight’s defeat is Arsenal’s first at home in this season’s Champions League competition.However, the club have now gone six games without scoring a goal in a semi-final in this trophy.They will need to have a more attacking mindset when they travel to Paris and look to turn this tie around.Copy linkCopiedFrench champions get job doneSpeaking with Amazon Prime after the game, PSG’s midfield dynamo gave his thoughts:It was a great night. Most for the group, it was a very good performance for the team. We controlled the games with the ball, today we defended well, we attacked well. It was a very strong performance from us. We have to continue like this, it is not over. We have to play a good game in Paris now. We could have scored more as well but we are happy with the one-nil.VitinhaPSGCopy linkCopiedGunners disappointed in capitalYou could see from the reactions of the players that this was a bitter blow for Mikel Arteta’s side.After all the jubilation of their home win against Real Madrid, this was the complete other end of the spectrum.Defeats tell you more about your squad than wins and it will be interesting to see how The Gunners bounce back.Credit: EPACredit: PACredit: EPACopy linkCopiedRice off the boil in deep roleArsenal certainly missed the driving runs of Declan Rice from box to box this evening against PSG.Without Thomas Partey, he had to play in a much deep role, sitting in front of the back four.It impacted on their whole game with Odegaard not having that person to link up with in the final third.Copy linkCopiedFans fail to be the extra manAgainst Real Madrid, The Emirates was a cauldron of noise from start to finish, making for an intimidating atmosphere.That lasted all of four minutes today and resembled a North London library for far too much of the game.They will experience how the home fans can make a difference next week in Paris at the Parc des Princes.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTactics gives Gunners problemsGive credit where it is due to Luis Enrique, he out-thought his opposite number this evening.Despite the pack-house at The Emirates, they immediately took them out of the equation, grabbing an early goal to silence North London.Aside from a few half-chances, PSG looked comfortable for the majority of this match.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 0-1 PSGIt was not the night the Arsenal fans were hoping for tonight.They have it all to do when they visit Paris next week.Arteta’s side will certainly need to create more scoring opportunities.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Charlie Wyett at The EmiratesIt is undoubtedly a disappointing night for Arsenal and PSG will be happy to take that one-goal lead back to the Parc des Princes next week.It will be interesting to hear what Mikel Arteta has to say about his team’s defending for Ousmane Dembele’s early goal.Although Mikel Merino had an effort disallowed for Arsenal it could have been worse as PSG subs Bradley Barcola and Goncalo Ramos should both have scored near the end.It is not mission impossible for Arsenal in the second leg but nevertheless, they need to deliver something heroic.Copy linkCopiedFT: Arsenal 0-1 PSGThe referee brings the game to an end.It is a slender win for PSG in North London.Disappointment for The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG90+4. Rice steals the ball off the toe of Vitinha.He fouls the midfielder but the referee plays advantage.Nwaneri plays it into the path of Martinelli, who sends his shot into orbit.They have have to contact Elon Mush to get that one back.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG90+2. Luis Enrique’s side are closing down the options.Arsenal end up passing it sideways or backwards.Raya ends up sending it downfield, more hit and hope stuff.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG90. Arsenal are just lacking that killer-pass in the final third.PSG will just look to defend what they have now.We are going to have five added minutes.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG88. It is all getting a little desperate for the hosts. Zaire-Emery replaces Joao Neves for PSG.Nwaneri looks like he is about to come on for Arsenal, replacing Odegaard.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG86. Ramos gets in behind the Gunners’ defence.The hosts are waiting for a flag that is never going to come.Fortunately the Portuguese striker’s toe-poked effort comes rattling off the crossbar with Raya beaten.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG84. What a chance for PSG to double their lead.Barcola is slotted through and only has the keeper to beat.His shot is poor as he drags it wide of the far post.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Charlie Wyett at The EmiratesPSG’s fans continue to make a real noise in the corner and they have not stopped singing all night. There will be a few croaky voices back to Paris on the Eurostar tomorrow. Their team now seems to have setted for a one-goal win and are happy to sit back and soak up the Arsenal pressure although they still look dangerous on the counter-attack.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG82. Stick or twist time now for The Gunners.That is the question, whether Arteta will look to get more players forward or not.White comes on for Timber for the hosts.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG80. We are into the final ten minutes of the game.Time is running out for The Gunners to find a goal.This has been a second-half of very few chances.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal 0-1 PSG78. Saka manages to bundle his way through two defenders.He gets a shot off but the keeper saves well at his near post.Then thhe flag goes up for offside to deny the hosts a corner.Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal vs PSG LIVE SCORE: Champions League semi-final updates as Gunners host French giants in first leg – stream FREE

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      ARSENAL play their biggest game of the season TONIGHT as they host PSG in the first leg of a scintillating Champions League semi-final tie!Any chance of the Gunners securing silverware this campaign rests on the one trophy that eludes them after seeing Liverpool secure the Premier League title on Sunday.And Mikel Arteta’s men will be confident they can do it after convincingly seeing off 15-time winners Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.However, they face a sensational PSG side who have already been crowned French champions, beat Aston Villa in the final eight, and have a devastating trio up top, which now includes January super signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTFREE live stream: Amazon Prime VideoArsenal starting XI: To followPSG starting XI: To followBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFollow ALL the action from The Emirates with our live blog below…Gunners’ good omenArsenal have a positive omen going into this evening’s huge match against Paris Saint-Germain.The Gunners host PSG in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals at the Emirates Stadium.They previously hosted the Ligue 1 champions in the group stage six months ago.Goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka saw Arsenal win 2-0 at home.Mikel Arteta will now be hoping for a similar result tonight.And the Spaniard has received what many superstitious fans may consider a good omen in the build-up.Slavko Vincic – the man who officiated the last match between Arsenal and PSG back in October – will be the referee tonight.Copy linkCopiedReminderAll players who were previously on a suspension tightrope during the quarter-finals are now not after all existing yellow cards are wiped after the last-8 stage.Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Martinelli all survived suspension by avoiding a booking during the second leg of their tie with Real Madrid.Thomas Partey did receive his third booking of the Champions League campaign against Los Blancos, meaning he will miss tonight’s first leg against PSG.Copy linkCopiedArteta: ‘One of the biggest games the Emirates has seen’The Arsenal boss spoke about the excitement around North London ahead of tonight’s blockbuster first leg, he said: “=”You sense the energy, the enthusiasm, that it’s something unique. “It’s probably one of the biggest games that the Emirates has seen since we built it. We are making history. It’s a beautiful story right now, but we want much more. “We have to have the feeling that we have to hold [the players] back tomorrow to go on that pitch and express themselves. It’s a moment now to say: ‘OK, this is who we are, this is who we are as a team, this is who I am as an individual and I’m going to put my very best in there to make it happen’. “Play with that mindset and let yourself go. Live the now, the present. This is where we are. We are so fortunate.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedTonight’s officialsReferee: Slavko VincicAssistants: Tomaz Klancnik, Andraz KovacicFourth official: Matej JugVAR: Alen BorosakAssistant VAR: Dennis HiglerCredit: RexCopy linkCopiedWhen Arsenal last faced PSGArsenal’s 2-0 twin against PSG was their first Champions League win of the season.Kai Havertz put the Gunners in front on 20 minutes, getting on the end of a superb cross from Leandro Trossard.Before Bukayo Saka doubled Arsenal’s lead after his wide free-kick avoided everyone in the box and flew straight past Gianluigi Donnarumma.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDonn their homeworkItalian star Gianluigi Donnarumma is seen as one of the best keepers in the world — but Arsenal will target him writes SunSport’s Charlie WyettCharlie wrote: “The Paris Saint-Germain No 1, 26, broke England’s hearts at Euro 2020.He helped dump Liverpool out of the last 16 of this year’s Champions League and then frustrated Aston Villa in the quarter-finals.Donnarumma has now played over 400 senior games but there is concern over his inability to deal with corners and crosses.He can also be suspect with the ball at his feet.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is certain to tell his players to fire crosses into the box and they will look to make the most of their set-pieces.Donnarumma’s shortcomings were exposed in the 2-0 loss at Arsenal in the group stages in October.The Gunners’ first goal saw a hesitant Donnarumma beaten as Kai Havertz anticipated a cross from Leandro Trossard and nodded in.Donnarumma was beaten again when Bukayo Saka’s low free-kick from the right went straight under him.The Italian’s view of the ball may have been obscured, but there seemed to be no talking between Donnarumma and his defenders.”Copy linkCopiedLast time out for the GunnersArsenal secured their spot in the Champions League semi-finals with a 5-1 aggregate win over Real MadridIn the first half, Thibaut Courtois denied Bukayo Saka from the penalty spot after a lengthy VAR check handed the Gunners a spot kick on 13 minutes.Real were given a penalty of their own minutes later for a Declan Rice foul on Kylian Mbappe, but the referee decided against his initial decision after going to the monitor, and Arsenal survived.Just after the hour mark, Saka opened the scoring on the night with a superb dinked finish, but the Gunners’ four-goal aggregate lead didn’t last long.A William Saliba howler gave Vinicius Jr an open goal – and the Brazilian made no mistake.In stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli put the gloss on his side’s spectacular display with a stunning finish to give the North London giants a 2-1 win (agg 5-1) at the Bernabeu.Arsenal are now in their first Champions League semi-final since 2009.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedGunner flySpeaking of Leandro Trossard, jet-setting snooker star Luca Brecel has thanked the Belgian for giving him advice on the top continental private plane firm to book.Brecel,30, is close pals with the Arsenal winger, also 30, and will be rooting for him tonight in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.On Saturday afternoon, the maverick potter took a private jet from Belgium to the UK on the day of his last 16 Crucible match with Ding Junhui.The 2023 world snooker champion set off from Maastricht in Holland and landed at East Midlands Airport at 3.17pm.From there he jumped in a car for the hour-long journey up to Sheffield but he was cutting it fine with the flying, especially if there had been an issue with weather or a no-land order by airport control officials.Brecel rented the aircraft for the 68-minute flight because he wanted to spend Friday night in his own bed in Maasmechelen.His arrival on English soil was only three-and-a-half hours before he faced Ding in the first session but it did not affect his display – he led 7-1 by the close of play.Copy linkCopiedHow Arsenal could lineup without ParteyWith Partey’s like-for-like replacement Jorginho also being injured, Mikel Arteta will more than likely drop Declan Rice in the six role and bring Mikel Merino back into the eight role.This would mean a start for Leandro Trossard up top who has been in hot goal-scoring form.Predicted starting XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Merino, Odegaard; Martinelli, Saka, TrossardCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedArteta’s selection headacheThomas Partey is OUT of the Champions League semi-final first leg tonight.The Arsenal star picked up a needless yellow card during the quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid.Partey, 31, was cautioned for his role in a clash with defender Antonio Rudiger.And he midfielder was berated for his stupidity by team-mate Declan Rice.The former West Ham captain was visibly angry with the Ghanaian as he could be seen lambasting him for his error.Now Arsenal boss Arteta will have to decide who will replace Partey in such a huge first leg.Copy linkCopiedAr you serious?PSG fans unfurled a banner aimed at Arsenal before losing their first Ligue 1 game of the season.The French giants were on course to match the Gunners’ invincible achievement this campaign.PSG have already wrapped up the Ligue 1 title with a massive 23-point advantage over second-placed Marseille.Ahead of Friday night’s clash against Nice at the Parc de Princes the club’s supporters had other things on their mind.Copy linkCopiedWelcome to SunSport’s coverage of Arsenal vs PSGIt’s sink or swim for Arsenal as they play the biggest game of their season TONIGHT in a mouthwatering Champions League semi-final first leg against PSG – and SunSport will be ALL over it.Any chance of the Gunners securing silverware this campaign rests on the one trophy that eludes them after seeing Liverpool secure the Premier League title on Sunday.And having suffered early exits from the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, it means that Arsenal’s only chance of securing silverware this season rests on the one trophy that eludes them – the Champions League.However, confidence is brewing around North London that they can do the unthinkable, especially after dumping 15-time winners and current holders Real Madrid out of the competition.Two Declan Rice stunning free-kicks in the first leg and a Bukayo Saka chipped effort fired Mikel Arteta’s men to a 5-1 aggregate win over Los Blancos in the quarter-finals.Another confidence booster to help Mikel Arteta’s men overcome this high French semi-final hurdle is that they have beaten PSG earlier on in the campaign.But that was a PSG side without in-form striker Ousmane Dembele, and January super signing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.This has all the ingredients to be a super Champions League tie, so you don;t want to miss a thing.Copy linkCopied More

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      Liverpool win Premier League LIVE: Reds secure 20th title after thrashing Spurs as celebrations ensue – latest updates

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      LIVERPOOL have officially secured the Premier League title with an emphatic 5-1 win over Tottenham.It’s the Reds’ 20th league title, which is the joint most with Manchester United.Arne Slot has enjoyed a stunning first season at the helm on Merseyside, becoming the first Dutch manager to lift the prestigious Premier League trophy.Celebrations are well underway across the city as fans soak in the occasion after they were denied the chance for their 2020 league triumph due to Covid restrictions.Match result: Liverpool 5-1 TottenhamLiverpool team: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, Konate, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Gakpo, DiazTottenham team: Vicario; Spence, Danso, Davies, Udogie; Bergvall, Gray, Maddison; Johnson, Solanke, TelCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…City celebrates massive titleThis club and silverware goes hand in hand with one another.It hurt so much to have such a lean spell of winning league titles.Now, they have won two Premier League trophies in five years.The rest of the league needs to be wary, The Reds go marching on.Credit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedPremier League champions tour datesLiverpool will go into their final four games knowing that their opponents will be facing the league champions.They will even receive guard of honours as they go out onto that pitch to do battle.Arne Slot’s side will want to celebrate this trophy in style and win all their remaining fixtures.Copy linkCopiedReds back on their perchLiverpool’s 20th top-flight title once again makes them the most decorated club in English football.The Premier League champions have got the hunger for winning trophies and this may well be the first of many.Many supporters have to endure lean periods but when you are experiencing these moments, it all seems so worth it.Credit: PACredit: AFPCredit: PACredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedSteal of the centuryLiverpool’s signing of Alexis Mac Allister for £35m from Brighton is now looking to be the ‘steal of the century’.He covered every blade of grass for The Reds today, scoring the goal to give them the lead at Anfield this afternoon.The Argentine was to get the ‘man of the match’ award and nobody deserved it more.Copy linkCopiedDutchman shows his worthWhen Arne Slot was named as the new Liverpool manager, most people where unaware who he even was.Managing a side in his native Netherlands, many wondered if he was the man to take over from Jurgen Klopp.In his first season he has shown them that he has come to carry on the good work of the German before him.Some shoes to fill, but this is a good start.Credit: EPACopy linkCopiedLocal lad who wanted to play for LiverpoolTrent Alexander-Arnold has achieved his dreams with this club,Coming through the youth system that turned him into one of the best players in the world.He has some tough decision to make over the coming weeks but none of that matters now as he celebrates a Premier League title.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHis name is Lucho, he came from PortoHe came to score, came to score, came to score, score, score.Luis Diaz grabbed the equaliser for The Reds today and they did not look back from that moment.The Columbian has become an important cog in this Liverpool machine and celebrates their success with Federico Chiesa.Credit: GettyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedYou cannot buy support like thisThere is a special relationship between Liverpool fans and their club.The passion, hunger and love for their players.Through thick and thin they back them, to experience moments like these.Different levels.Credit: GettyCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedThe king bows to his peopleLiverpool’s Egyptian King is on his knees thanking those who worship him.Mohamed Salah has been the best player in the world this season and delivered a Premier League title to the fans.Having signed a new contract, he is here to stay.And along with it, more success.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedCity bouncing with title winOutside of the ground was a sea of fans, even as the game was being played.No one could ever build a stadium big enough for the supporrt of this football club.They all wanted to see their Premier League champions, there will be parrties long into the night.Credit: PACredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSpecial achievement for Slot’s RedsTo win the Premier League with four games still to play shows just how dominant The Reds have been this season.Even when not at their best, this team found a way to win.The squad have clicked with their new manager and tactics, nobody in the Premier League have been able to live with them.What a way to seal it, with a 5-1 victory over Tottenham in front of their own fans.Credit: PACredit: GettyCredit: GettyCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedLiverpool Hungary for moreIt has been a new experience for Dominic Szoboszlai as he wins his first Premier League title with The Reds.His creativity has been a major contribution in his team ensuring that they stay at the top of the table.As he cleebrates their win with these loyal fans, the midfielder knows this is something he wants to feel more and more.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedMacca lapping up the experienceSpeaking with Sky Sports, Alexis Mac Allister spoke about this feeling:To win a World Cup and now to win a Premier League is something really special. It wouldn’t be possible without my teammates and I am just one part of the puzzle. Something really, really special and hopefully we can enjoy it. I don’t think I will score that one again. It wasn’t bad. I think it was the right decision for me [joining Liverpool] and am really enjoying my time here. Alexis Mac AllisterLiverpoolCopy linkCopiedMagic moment for Liverpool fanHarvey Elliott has grown up as a Liverpool fan and travelled as a youngster to watch so many of their games.It must have seemed like a dream when he finally signed for them and this is something probably fantasised about out his back garden as a kid.Winning the title with his beloved Liverpool, with dad watching on from the stands.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedAll roads lead to AnfieldAs Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrates this title win, he stands taking in the atmosphere, no doubt making the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.Why would the full-back want to leave his hometown club, the sky is the limit for Arne Slot and co.He may well be thinking about how he cannot severe this tie, it means too much, he has to stay.And the fans would love nothing more.Credit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedSalah feels the love at AnfieldIf anyone wondered why Mohamed Salah wanted to stay at this club so much, it was for all to see today.The Egyptian feels like one of their own and these fans feel like his family and he wanted to win this title today for them.Since his arrival in 2017, it has been a match made in heaven and who would rule out plenty more days like this for Liverpool from this point.Credit: ReutersCredit: PACopy linkCopiedArne Slot embraces the fansWearing his Liverpool top which reads on the back ‘ champions 24/25′ the manager celebrates with the fans.He is given a microphone and sings…..’Jurgen Klopp, la la la la la’.Slot embraces his players, the Dutchman looks on cloud nine.These players and coaches have such a bond with each other and these fans.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEgyptian King absorbs title winSpeaking wiith Sky Sports, Salah expressed his feelings:Incredible, to win the Premier League with the fans, it’s incredible. This is way better, 100%. It is special with the fans. I’m glad that we are winners here. We wanted to win it here in front of the fans, incredible.Mohamed SalahLiverpoolCopy linkCopiedReds crowned Premier League championsIf you wondered how much this meant to the players, they are in dreamland right now.Celebrating with the fans and singing the club anthems.After a long slog this campaign, they are reaping the rewards right now.Credit: ReutersCredit: GettyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedHeroes of Anfield RoadAnfield is still a cauldron of noise, with just as many fans if not more outside the ground.The whole city rejoices as do fans all over the world.Liverpool have some of the most passionate fans and there will be some celebrations tonight.They have suprised many this season and no other team has had an answer for them.Slot’s side have been on another level.Credit: ReutersCredit: APCopy linkCopiedSlot basking in gloryThe Liverpool manager spoke with Sky Sports as the whole of Anfield sang out his name:Wow. I think it is difficult to put it into words. You could feel how important it was for the fans to be here and the boys did a brilliant job here, as did the fans. First time we went one goal behind and I don’t think we could have lost this game today if you were here. Our main focus was to win this game and that makes it special. The belief for us to win it was almost through the whole season. Arne SlotLiverpoolCopy linkCopiedFans get the moment they dreamed ofWhile it seemed immenent The Reds would be crowned champions, nobody takes anything for granted.For these fans and all the others around the world, this is the what they dream of seeing, their club lifting major silverware.This has been a season to remember for all of them.Credit: APCredit: AFPCredit: PACopy linkCopiedSkipper knows why he stayedSpeaking with Sky Sports, van Dijk was feeling all the emotions with this experience:It is something special that we love to have. This is the most beautiful club in the world and I think we all deserve this. We have got to enjoy the next couple of weeks. I was desperate to do this for all the fans around the world. It is a great achievement.Virgil van DijkLiverpoolCopy linkCopiedReds seal title in styleAs ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ rings out across the ground, the players all stand side by side.It is spine-chilling to hear the anthem ring out.This is a special club, one like no other, and fully deserve this moment.Liverpool are Premier League champions and are looking to stay.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedLiverpool are the cream of the cropThe fans erupt as it is confirmed they are champions.You can see just how much this means to the players as well as they celebrate their achievements.Arne Slot’s side have blown the opposition away as they open up a 15 point gap with four games remaining.Credit: APCredit: PACopy linkCopied More