Live Blogs

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares107 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League LIVE SCORES: Leicester equalise vs Brighton, Forest and Villa in action, Man City hit FIVE against Palace

      by

      PREMIER LEAGUE action has returned to the big screens – and it has been a super Saturday so far!Manchester City started the day with a HUGE 5-2 victory over Crystal Palace, despite the Eagles going two goals up at one stage.Brighton host Leicester, Nottingham Forest take on Everton and Southampton are currently facing Aston Villa in the 3pm kick-offs.Then at 5:30pm BST, fresh off their huge victory against Real Madrid, Arsenal welcome Brentford to the Emirates.Start time: 12.30pm BST / 3pm BST / 5.30pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 1 / Sky Sports Main EventStream: Discovery+ / NOW TVMan City XI: Ederson, Lewis, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly, Nico, Kovacic, Gundogan, De Bruyne, McAtee, MarmoushCrystal Palace XI: Henderson, Munoz, Richards, Lacroix, Lerma, Mitchell, Wharton, Kamada, Sarr, Eze, MatetaFull time – Brighton 2-2 LeicesterThe home team are greeted with boos at the final whistle after gifting shot shy Leicester two goals and an unexpected point.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Southampton 0-3 Aston VillaWhat’s worse? Southampton or Marco Asensio at taking penalties?Copy linkCopiedFull time – Nott’m Forest 0-1 EvertonLate, late drama at the City Ground, and Forest have fallen to a second successive defeat. A big win for the Toffees.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Southampton 0-3 Aston Villa90+4. Marco Asensio has a second penalty saved by Aaron Ramsdale – but John McGinn converts the rebound for 3-0!The Spanish forward turns away in disgust before his captain even follows up for the third, and looks absolutely furious with himself.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Nott’m Forest 0-1 Everton90+4. Abdoulaye Doucoure has won it!!A tired Murillo gets caught in possession just inside his own half, presenting Dwight McNeil with space to bomb forward.The winger looks up and plays in Doucoure on the left, who takes a fine first touch and then sweeps past Matz Sels and int the roof of the net.It’s a hammer blow for Nottingham Forest and their Champions League aspirations!Copy linkCopiedBrighton 2-2 Leicester87. Leicester go so close to a winner! The Foxes have their tails up and come flying forward with Bilal El Khannouss.The Moroccan comes inside on to his right foot and curls a shot on to the base of the far post.Copy linkCopiedNott’m Forest 0-0 Everton87. There’s a VAR check ongoing for a possible Everton penalty, but don’t get too excited – I can see from here that the challenge on Beto doesn’t meet the threshold for overturning the on field decision.Oh, and it was probably outside the box too.Copy linkCopiedNott’m Forest 0-0 Everton83. Inside the final ten minutes at the City Ground, and is it a grandstand finish?Well, in a word, no.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Southampton 0-2 Aston Villa79. Another substitute, another goal! What a squad Unai Emery is building at Aston Villa!A clever through ball from Morgan Rogers dissects the Southampton defence, allowing Donyell Malen to race through and rocket a shot past Aaron Ramsdale.It’s three in three Premier League games for the former Dortmund ace!Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Brighton 2-2 Leicester74. Leicester have done it again!Admittedly, they’ve been helped here by some slack defending from Brighton, who completely switch off when Bilal El Khannoussi swings over a free-kick from the right.It gives Memeh Okoli a free run into the six-yard box and, having timed his run to beat the offside trap, heads powerfully past Bart Verbruggen.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Southampton 0-1 Aston Villa73. Aston Villa are in front now!And it’s that man, Ollie Watkins, off the bench to break the deadlock.The pass over the top from Youri Tielemans is glorious, and the substitute timed his run perfectly to poke a volley past Aaron Ramsdale and in off the underside of the crossbar.Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 0-0 Aston Villa69. Aaron Ramsdale saves Marco Asensio’s penalty!It’s a brilliant stop from the Saints keeper, who dives to his left and pushes out the Spaniard’s spotkick.The penalty was won by Ollie Watkins, only just on as a substitute, after he raced into the area and was brought down by former teammate Jan Bednarek.But rather than the striker taking it – or even Youri Tielemans – the ball was handed to Asensio, and he promptly spurned the chance to break the deadlock.Copy linkCopiedNott’m Forest 0-0 Everton60. There hasn’t been much of an improvement in the standard at the City Ground.Chris Wood has at least livened things up with a dive inside the six-yard box so unconvincing that he could hardly bring himself to look at the referee, let alone appeal to him.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Brighton 2-1 Leicester55. For the second time this afternoon, Darren Bond has been sent to the pitchside monitor by VAR to award a Brighton penalty that really should have been awarded the first time round.Matt O’Riley clearly had his shirt pulled by Luke Thomas as he took aim at Mads Hermansen’s goal.Once again, Joao Pedro isn’t put off by the lengthy theatre of it all, and when the moment comes, he slams a superb spotkick into the top corner for his second of the afternoon.Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 0-0 Aston Villa51. Amadou Onana stings the palms of Aaron Ramsdale with a rasping effort from 25 yards.Unai Emery made no changes at half-time despite that huge Champions League clash with PSG looming on the horizon.Copy linkCopiedNott’m Forest 0-0 Everton47, The home fans at the City Ground are doing all they can to rouse their team as they attack the Trent End in the second half.This already has the makings of a one-goal game.Copy linkCopiedFrom Graeme Bryce at the City GroundWhat has happened to Nottingham Forest’s swashbuckling style?That’s been the most turgid 45 minutes I’ve sat through this season.Callum Hudson-Odoi did manage to sting Pickford’s palms with a fiercely hit shot in first-half stoppage time.But most fans would have rather spent 45 minutes having root canal treatment than suffer more of the same in the second half.Forest’s swash has definitely buckled here.Meanwhile Everton have dominated possession but still don’t look like they could score for Toffees!Copy linkCopiedFrom Ian Winrow at the AmexWell it had to happen sometime.Leicester have finally scored but Brighton will wonder how they have reached half time with only Joao Pedro’s penalty to their name. Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Brighton 1-1 LeicesterThe afternoon’s third Premier League game is also level at half-time, although we have at least seen two goals – one of which was Leicester’s first in FOREVER.Brighton have had plenty of chances, and will be frustrated not to be well ahead.Copy linkCopiedFrom Rob Maul at St Mary’s0-0 at St Mary’s. A frustrating first half for Aston Villa. Even the away fans who had been in good voice at the start have quietened down.Southampton players have left one or two late feet on their opposing numbers. Villa need some quality later on. They will not want to head to the Champions Leaguer quarter-final second leg with PSG having to mend some bruised bodies. Their big names need to produce in the next 45 minutes.Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Southampton 0-0 Aston VillaIt’s also goalless at St Mary’s, but not for the want of trying.Villa have recorded 12 shots in the first half although only three have been on target.The bottom club – managed today by Simon Rusk – are so far holding firm.Copy linkCopiedHalf-time – Nott’m Forest 0-0 EvertonA poor first 45 at the City Ground.Surely it can only get better in the second half.Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-1 Leicester42. Fabian Hurzeler’s side should be back in front.Matt O’Riley, presented with a clear opportunity, fluffed his lines at the vital moment. Blimey.Copy linkCopiedGOAL! Brighton 1-1 Leicester38. Hold the back page! Leicester City have scored a goal!Stephy Mavididi has bagged the Foxes’ first in more than 13 hours of football, and it brings them level in Brighton.A loose touch from Lewis Dunk on halfway allows the visitors to spring three-on-two, and when the Brighton captain tries to make amends he deflects Mavididi’s first shot straight back to him.At the second attempt, the Leicester forward drills it through the legs of Bart Vebruggen, and – against all odds – it’s 1-1.Copy linkCopiedFrom Rob Maul at St Mary’sYouri Tielemans is one of Aston Villa’s most creative and decisive players and it was ball over the top that found Marcus Rashford inside the first minute (the Marcus Rashford shot was blocked by Southampton defender Jan Bednarek).Yet he took a whack on his ankle and it will be interesting to see if he can last the pace. Villa fans are in good voice here. Southampton have had one decent chance in the first half so far but Emiliano Martinez saved from Cameron Archer on 16 minutes.Copy linkCopied More

    • 263 Shares148 Views

      in Soccer

      Lyon vs Man Utd LIVE RESULT: Matic has last laugh after Onana’s error denies United crucial first leg Europa League win

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED were seconds away from taking a lead back to Old Trafford in what was a thrilling Europa League quarter-final first leg – but Andre Onana’s blunder proved costly.The United keeper’s initial mistake saw his team go behind before Leny Yoro equalised in stoppage time of the first half.Joshua Zirkzee then thought he had grabbed the winner with a superb header late into the second half.However, Rayan Cherki was quickest to pounce on Onana spilling an earlier shot which then saw the game end level.RESULT: Lyon 2-2 Man UtdLyon team: Perri; Maitland-Niles, Mata, Niakhate, Tagliafic; Tolisso, Akouokou, Veretout; Cherki, Mikautadze, AlmadaMan Utd team: Onana; Yoro; Maguire, Mazaroui; Dalot, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Fernandes, Garnacho, HojlundFollow Man United’s Europa League clash below…Leny Yoro on the drawLeny Yoro spoke to TNT Sport following the late goal, saying: “we’ll try to win the game at home“We defended really well but they are a good team”“We need to be ready for everything, and unfortunately we conceded the goal.”On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedOnana’s night to forgetOnana had what can only be described as a stinker in the tie against Lyon.The first goal should have been kept out, as Thiago Almada’s free-kick sailed past him, with what looked to be an easy save.Then, under fire already, he spilled a late effort straight to Rayan Cherki, who pounced and scored a late leveller. Not the type of performance he would have wanted to put in after being called out by Nemanja Matic earlier in the week.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedRayan Cherki on the mapThe young Lyon starlet has been attracting attention from across Europe, but tonight he announced himself to the world.It was a good display from Cherki before his goal, but he showed experience beyond his years to pounce on that spill from Onana.He reacted quicker than the entire United defence, and now has a chance to become a legend at Old Trafford. His late goal sent Lyon fans crazy, and has surely added a bit more to his price tag for potential deals this summer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLeny Yoro’s first goalWhat a time it was for Leny Yoro to get his first goal for United.His headed effort at the end of the first-half was his first goal for United, but his celebration was muted. On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”A good mentality for the young defender to take into the second leg next week. Credit: REUTERS/Gonzalo FuentesCopy linkCopiedZirkzee in the goalsJoshua Zirkzee has struggled for goals since he came to England in the summer of 2024. However, amidst the late drama, it is easy to forget he scored a well taken goal tonight.His headed effort has given United something to take home, and the side will now be confident that in Manchester, they can turn it around. Credit: Phil Duncan/Every Second MediaCopy linkCopiedRecap: United held by LyonUnited and Lyon saw out an entertaining 2-2 draw in France. Andre Onana was the centre of attention, costing United twice as Lyon take a draw to Manchester.However, United will be confident that at home, they can get the job done.Copy linkCopiedRuben Amorim on Andre OnanaUnited manager Amorim has had a tough time trying to steady the ship since he joined from Sporting, and said: “we are really disappointed” after the late goal.On Andre Onana’s mistakes, he reassured the ‘keeper, and said: “it is important to focus on the next game”When one player has a mistake the whole team has a mistake”We continue to do the same thing.”Amorim insisted that he would chose the best XI, and showed no indication that he was ready to drop Onana. Copy linkCopiedThe late late show with Rayan CherkiLyon’s equaliser in the 95th minute was the latest goal Manchester United have ever conceded in the UEFA Europa League.It was also Lyon’s second-latest in the competition (94:30), after February 2017 against AZ (94:35). (via OptaJoe on X) Copy linkCopiedA pattern for OnanaSince the start of last season, no ‘keeper has made more errors leading to goals from Premier League clubs in all competitions.Onana leads the way, having made a whopping EIGHT errors leading to goals in the last one and a half seasons. Copy linkCopiedView of SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LyonYou could have predicted Andre Onana would be at the centre of it after the pre-match verbal spat with Nemanja Matic. But nobody expected it to be this eventful. The Cameroon international allowed an early free-kick from Thiago Almada to drift past him to give Lyon a first half lead.And should he have held the late shot that he spilled to give Rayan Cherki a last gasp equaliser.In between times United were good and goals from Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee means they are very much alive. It should have been better but for onana though.Copy linkCopiedScholes: “not a disaster”Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has insisted that this is not a bad result.Despite conceding late, he says it is “not a disaster,” as the second leg is at Old Trafford.Copy linkCopiedLeny Yoro on the drawLeny Yoro spoke to TNT Sport following the late goal, saying: “we’ll try to win the game at home”We defended really well but they are a good team””We need to be ready for everything, and unfortunately we conceded the goal.”On his muted celebration, he said: “we want to win so no time for the celebration”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFull-time: Lyon 2-2 Man UnitedWell, all the talk going into the game was about Andre Onana, and all the talk going out will be about Onana. He let an effort fly past him for Lyon’s opener, then he spilled the ball to Rayan Cherki for the leveller. Thiago Almada’s well struck crossed free-kick beat Onana to get the ball rolling in the first half, but United were soon back in it.Leny Yoro then got his first United goal bang on half-time to level the score, before late in the second-half Joshua Zirkzee sent the ball into the Lyon net to score what looked like the winner. However, Cherki had the last laugh, and a late goal at the end of the second-half means it is all still to play for as the sides head to Manchester next week. Credit: AP Photo/Thibault CamusCopy linkCopiedFull-time: Lyon 2-2 Man UnitedCopy linkCopiedLyon 2-2 Man United90+5’ – Lyon have snatched a draw, and Onana has his head in his hands again!Mikautadze fires an effort towards goal, and while there is power on it, it’s right at Onana.BUT – the United ‘keeper spills it, and it goes straight into the path of Rayan Cherki, he pokes home with ease to put Lyon level.They’ve snatched a draw at the death, and ultimately Matic has got the last laugh over Onana here. Copy linkCopiedGoal – Rayan Cherki (Lyon)Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-2 Man United90′ – Well, when the clock struck 90 here, Lyon were in command.But, as the clock strikes 90, they are trailing to United. It hasn’t fallen apart – anything but – as Lyon have played quite well in this game, but United have just managed to score when it matters. The Premier League might have fallen short for them this season, but it is still all to play for in Europe for Amorim. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-2 Man United88′ – Surely Zirkzee has sent United to Manchester in the lead?An audacious pass towards the Lyon box causes more problems than the French side would like to admit, and their failed clearance falls to Mainoo. Kobbie Mainoo then heads the ball to Bruno Fernandes, and is there anything worse in world football than Bruno in space in your box with time to pick a pass?If this is anything to go by, the answer is no – as he picks out Zirkzee, who heads home in fine fashion. Copy linkCopiedGoal – Joshua Zirzkee (Manchester United)Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United85′ – Another chance goes over for Lacazette. Rayan Cherki works his way into a channel for Lyon, and pulls the ball back for Lacazette, who is waiting for the ball.But, his effort sails over to the Lyon fans behind Andre Onana’s goal. Not quite the impact the former Arsenal star would have wanted from the bench, so far. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United83′ – No goal for Garnacho tonight, he goes off in place of Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim also switches in defence, as Harry Maguire makes way for Victor Lindelof.Might be one last roll of the dice for Amorim, as he aims to send United back to Manchester with a lead to defend. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United80′ – United VERY close to the lead. They’re like London busses – you wait ages for one then two chances come in 30 seconds. Garnacho gets onto the end of a wicked cross, and fires a good effort straight at Perri for a corner.From the corner, Casemiro heads an effort just wide, Perri looked like he was not going to get to it. It’s the closest United have been in the whole second half, with Lyon relentlessly passing it in the United half. Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United77′ – It is getting lively out there!Mason Mount gets hit hard by Nicolas Tagliafico, and not happy with the challenge, gives Tagliafico a shove.However, the Argentine left-back was not ready to let Mount just push him around, and let Mount know it as he returned fire. A quick scuffle between the teams and the referee sent them on their way. Copy linkCopiedView of SunSport’s Martin Blackburn in LyonBoth sides have had chances to take the lead – with the best one falling to former Arsenal man Alexandre Lacazette minutes after coming off the bench. Yoro could also have scored his second of the night but United would almost certainly be happy with a draw from here.Copy linkCopiedLyon 1-1 Man United69’ – Garnacho blows a great chance for United.It looked as though he almost had too much time, racing away from the Lyon defence with Zirkzee right and Bruno left.However, he couldn’t decide where to go, and in the end went to neither, playing a poor pass to Bruno, which the Portuguese international was unable to reach. Mata collects, and gets it away.Copy linkCopied More

    • 188 Shares156 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham vs Frankfurt LIVE RESULT: Spurs held by Frankfurt in tense first leg in London

      by

      TOTTENHAM were held to a 1-1 draw with Frankfurt in London.Ange Postecoglou will know the European competition is Spurs’ only hope of saving their season after a torrid domestic campaign.The North London club failed to get their quarter-final off to a flying start, and now must go to Germany and WIN if they are to go through. Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 3Live stream: discovery+CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below… More

    • 238 Shares82 Views

      in Soccer

      Legia Warsaw vs Chelsea LIVE SCORE: Cole Palmer STARTS for Chelsea as they face Warsaw in Poland – updates

      by

      CONFERENCE LEAGUE favourites Chelsea look to extend their winning run in the group stage proper as they jet east to face Polish heavyweights Legia Warsaw. The Blues narrowly edged past Servette in the competition’s qualification round despite losing the second leg, and have since gone on to win all eight of their games, including last round’s two legs against Copenhagen. Although boosting loftier heights than the third tier of European football – with a place in the Champions League on the cards in league play – winning the competition would be the new ownership’s first salute since the 2022 takeover. Legia, like 2021 Champions League-winning Chelsea, have endured testy times in recent years with a downturn in league finish since winning seven out of the last nine titles dating back to the 12/13 season. Controversial coach Gonçalo Feio has already guided the Polish club to their best European progression in the 21st century. Kick-off time: 5.45pm GMTTV channel/FREE live stream: TNT Sports 1/Discovery plusLegia Warsaw team: Tobiasz, Wszolek, Pankov, Kapuadi, Vinagre, Oyedele, Agustyniak, Elitim, Chodyna, Luquinhas, MorishitaChelsea team: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Tosin, Badiashille, Gusto, Dewsbury-Hall, James, George, Palmer, Sancho, NkunkuFollow Chelsea’s Conference League clash below…On the benchLegia Warsaw: Kovacevic, Mendes-Dudzinski, Barcia, Olewinski, Kun, Biczachczjan, Goncalves, Mozie, Szczepaniak, PekhartChelsea: Sanchez, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella, Caicedo, Amougou, Rak-Sakyi, Fernandez, Neto, Madueke, Jackson, MheukaCopy linkCopiedYoung gunsCobham graduates Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George BOTH start for Chelsea tonight.The pair have impressed in the Conference League this season. Tonight gives them an opportunity to step up and guide Chelsea into the semi-final, as the club prepare for what could be a HUGE transfer window in the summer. Copy linkCopiedCole Palmer STARTSPalmer was not even in the squad for Chelsea’s group stage games in the Conference League, but he starts here tonight. Captain Reece James also starts, and is expected to play in midfield, alongside Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedXI’s confirmedLegia Warsaw: Tobiasz, Kapuadi, Oyedele, Augustyniak, Chodyna, Pankov, Wszolek, Vinagre, Elitim, Morishita, Luquinhas Chelsea: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Tosin, Badisahille, Gusto, Dewsbury-Hall, James, George, Palmer, Sancho, Nkunku Copy linkCopiedNext up: team newsChelsea and Legia Warsaw announce their line-ups NEXT.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedWhen in WarChelsea travel to Legia Warsaw in the Conference League quarter-finals.Enzo Maresca’s side saw off Copenhagen in the round of 16 to set up a tie against the Polish outfit in the last eight.The Conference League is the only chance Chelsea have of picking up a trophy this season, with the Premier League out of touch, and the side are out of the FA Cup.It also presents an opportunity for Chelsea to become the first club in history to win the Champions, Europa and Conference League. Legia Warsaw are no slouches, and saw off Molde in the round of 16 -overturning a 3-2 loss to win 2-0 after extra time in Poland in the second leg.The Blues have already proven to be somewhat put off by a hostile environment, struggling to break down Copenhagen for 45 minutes in the round of 16 in the away leg.If Legia Warsaw are to upset the odds, they will need their fans to put on a big display.SunSport has you covered for play-by-play action from tonight’s clash. Copy linkCopied More

    • 225 Shares84 Views

      in Soccer

      PSG vs Aston Villa LIVE: Champions League quarter-final updates as Unai Emery faces former side in mammoth clash

      by

      ASTON VILLA travel to PSG for the first leg of their huge Champions League quarter-final TONIGHT.Unai Emery spent two seasons in the French capital, but now he leads a Villa side searching for the final four of the Champions League.Les Parisiens will be tough to stop in their current form, having already wrapped up the Ligue 1 title and knocked Liverpool out in the round of 16.However, already in the FA Cup semi-final, the Villans will be looking to add a Champions League semi-final to their schedule this season.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTTV/live stream: TNT Sports 1 / discovery+PSG team: To follow…Aston Villa team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow Villa’s trip to Paris with our live blog below…Rashford resurgenceMarcus Rashford looked as though his career was tailing off before he even turned 30. However, while United’s form remain tumultuous, Rashford’s has started to rise.He joined Villa on loan from United in January, although reports suggest United have no intention of integrating Rashford back into the side, so it could become permanent. It took a while for him to find the net for Villa, but he scored a brace against Preston in the FA Cup, and followed it up with a goal against Brighton.Rashford now has three in three.The former United man also has fond memories from Pairs, scoring a decisive penalty for the side back in 2019.His penalty put United through 3-3 on away goals. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedThe most dangerous player in Europe?From a young age, Ousmane Dembele has been highly rated across Europe. He joined Borussia Dortmund – who have built a reputation for developing talent – and thrived in the Bundesliga.So much so that in 2017, Barcelona paid over £100million to prize him out of Germany, and replace Neymar.He did somewhat struggle in Spain, but this season has been a completely different story. Dembele has 32 goals and eight assists in 40 games – meaning he is running at a current tally of a contribution EVERY game.He was superb against Liverpool, scoring the goal to send the game to penalties, which they ultimately won. Can PSG’s star man deliver on the biggest stage once again?Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedCan Marco Asensio play tonight?Since moving to the Midlands from Paris, Marco Asensio has been a revelation for Unai Emery’s side. BUT – there is the obvious problem, normally loanees cannot play against their parent club.With eight goals and one assist in 11 games, Emery would have been hoping Asensio is available. And – he is – Asensio CAN play for Villa tonight against PSG.In fact, there is no hard feelings between the clubs about Asensio. PSG manager, Luis Enrique, said: “I am delighted he can play,” clearly indicating he is pleased Asensio found a place to showcase his ability. Credit: Jessica Hornby/SportimageCopy linkCopiedTeam newsBoth sides will be at almost full strength for tonight’s clash. However, in a HUGE blow for PSG, they will be without captain and star defender Marquinhos through suspension.Lee Kang-in will also miss out for PSG through injury.Enrique rested Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, Bradely Barcola and Ousmane Dembele for the sides title deciding 1-0 win over Angers, so expect all to start.Aston Villa will miss only Leon Bailey and Ross Barkley through injury. However, Emery does have a decision to make up top. Ollie Watkins is without a goal since March 8, whereas Rashford has three in his last three.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFirst time?This is the FIRST time that PSG and Aston Villa have met in the Champions League in history. Despite PSG having boasted players as good as Kylian Mbappe, Neymar, Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi in their history, it is Villa who hold the only Champions League title between the two.Emery’s side qualified for the knockout stages by finishing eighth in the Champions League table, whereas PSG had to go through a qualifier.Luis Enrique’s side ended up beating Brest, scoring 10 goals over two legs, and beat Liverpool in the round of 16. Villa eased beyond Club Brugge, winning 6-1 over two legs. They will need more of the same domination if they are to have any chance against the French champions. Credit: Jessica Hornby / SportimageCopy linkCopiedA familiar faceUnai Emery is returning to the side he once managed tonight. He only won the title once in two seasons, but was unlucky to come up against a Monaco side that possessed players such as Bernardo Silva, Falcao, and one Kylian Mbappe.He was also in the dugout for Barcelona’s famous 6-1 comeback against PSG at the Camp Nou. But – if they’re keeping count, Emery was in charge when Neymar made the switch from Barcelona.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedThe city of loving knockout footballWelcome to SunSport’s coverage of Villa against PSG in the Champions League quarter-final.Aston Villa have already booked themselves into a semi-final this season, preparing for a trip to the capital at Wembley to take on Crystal Palace in the FA Cup semi-finals.The travel to another capital today, but rather than the English capital – it is the French capital.Unai Emery is familiar with PSG, having been a manager there for two seasons. PSG now have all their focus on winning the Champions League for the first time in their history, as they have already wrapped up the Ligue 1 title.With Ousmane Dembele at the helm, Luis Enrique’s side have been unstoppable this season. His side already have an English scalp, after knocking out champions elect Liverpool in the round of 16.SunSport has you covered for all of the play-by-play action from the French capital tonight. Copy linkCopied More

    • 225 Shares87 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal vs Real Madrid LIVE RESULT: Declan Rice scores TWO stunning free-kicks as Gunners take control of quarter-final

      by

      ARSENAL have stunned Real Madrid with a 3-0 win in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.Declan Rice broke the deadlock just before the hour mark after curling home a sensational free-kick.The England midfield scored ANOTHER stunning free-kick in the 70th minute to send the Emirates into delirium.Minutes later, makeshift striker Mikel Merino made it 3-0 with a superb finish past Thibaut Courtois.The night went from bad to worse for Real after Eduardo Camavinga was shown a second yellow card and his marching orders in injury time.It was a fantastic night at the Emirates for Mikel Arteta’s men as they go to the Santiago Bernabeu next week with a very healthy lead.Match result: Arsenal 3-0 Real MadridArsenal team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Partey, Rice, Odegaard, Saka, Martinelli, MerinoReal Madrid team: Courtois, Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Alaba, Modric, Camavinga, Bellingham, Vinicius, Mbappe, RodrygoCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow Arsenal’s Champions League clash below…Comeback?Real Madrid have never come from three goals behind to win a Champions League tie.Granted, they won’t have been that far behind in a tie after the first leg before.But Ancelotti said: “There is always a first time. You have to try. The only thing you can do together is to try, and we will try.”They are a really good team. Compact all the time and good on the ball. They are a good team. I said this yesterday. No news.”The comeback starts tonight.”Copy linkCopiedOdds next weekReal Madrid are favourites to win next week’s game, but surely this tie is out of sight.Match oddsReal Madrid 9/10Draw 9/4Arsenal 14/5To QualifyReal Madrid 8/1Arsenal 1/14Copy linkCopiedMore from the managerOn the returning Bukayo Saka, Arteta added: “He was key. Again he elevates the level of the team. There’s a fear factor every time he’s on the ball. Team step off him and that creates space. He’s fine, I think he was just hurt from a kick when winning the second free kick.”We need to go there and we know we will have to step up again and we will try to win it.”It’s another step in the right direction as a team. We have to make another one and replicate what we’ve done tonight.”Copy linkCopiedMore from RiceThe last of the reaction from man of the moment, Declan Rice who told Prime Video: “I don’t think it’s going to hit me what I’ve done tonight. It’s a historical night, and to score two goals against Real Madrid.”We want to win this competition. But we have to take it one game at a time.”Even at West Ham and ever since I’ve been here everyone’s been telling me to shoot more. It’s these little things and you’ve got to be in that mindset to score goals. I do have the ability to do it, but it’s a confidence thing.”I don’t think I’ll sleep tonight. I’m delighted.”Copy linkCopiedMatch reportDeclan Rice had played in more than 400 matches as a professional footballer and never scored a direct free-kick. In fact, Arsenal’s £105million man has barely ever taken aim at goal with a dead ball in almost two seasons at the Emirates. So how about this then? In a Champions League quarter-final against the reigning, and 15-time kings of Europe, Rice decided to score two of them inside a dozen minutes. And both from 25 yards. Both mugging off Thibaut Courtois, one of the finest keepers in the world.As the Emirates erupted in an ecstatic bedlam – bodies everywhere like some kind of an orgy – Arsenal’s non centre-forward Mikel Merino lashed home a third and Mikel Arteta’s men had secured a commanding lead to take into the Bernabeu next Wednesday night. Real Madrid are never knowingly beaten before a tie is over but the Gunners are in touching distance of a first Champions League semi-final in 16 years. Copy linkCopiedCarlo reactsA gutted Carlo Ancelotti told Prime Video: “Arsenal were much better than us, they shot two fantastic free kicks and the game at the time changed, we were not able to react and they scored another goal and now it will be very difficult but we have to try.”Mentally we went down, but we will try. They are a good team, compact, good with and without the ball.”Copy linkCopiedWeekend gamesArsenal will also get a day more rest than Madrid ahead of next Wednesday’s second leg.The Gunners host Brentford in the Saturday teatime game.Madrid are in action away to Alaves on Sunday.Copy linkCopied’Pull it out the bag’A disappointed Jude Bellingham told Prime Video: “We were nowhere near it. “That’s the fact and Arsenal were really good. I know two of their goals were free-kicks but they could have had way more. “There is a second leg and that’s what we’re holding on to. We need something really special, something crazy really but one place where crazy things happen is our house. “90 more minutes at home to pull something out of the bag.”Copy linkCopiedMore Rice pleaseMore from Declan Rice, who told Prime Video: “I don’t know whether it will ever sink in. I’ve gone back to my phone then and it’s gone crazy. To score my first free-kick in a game is a special one. And then when I got the second one. I just had the confidence. I’m speechless really.”To beat Real Madrid in this competition. It’s a big night for us.”The manager just said that then. Even if we’re 3-0 up the individual quality they have is scary. At the Bernabeu special things happen for them. We want to be in the Champions League semi-finals.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – FORWARDSBUKAYO SAKA – 8: Had his heart in his mouth when his undershot back pass inside five minutes saw Vinicius Jr race clear, thankfully unpunished. In attack however, it has not taken him long to shake off the rust from his three-month lay-off. Left Jude Bellingham for dead down the right and his ball across should have been tapped in, and almost did the same up against David Alaba soon after.Was kicked about a lot so no surprise he got taken off with the game done and dusted.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7: Largely quiet and struggled to get the better of Federico Valverde aside from the odd surging drive. His only real chance where he came alive was a rebound from a tight angle that was straight at Thibaut Courtois.Still, he played his part, ran his socks off, even switching to the right wing when Bukayo Saka was subbed off.MIKEL MERINO – 9: Worked hard off the ball, dropping deep to provide space for his teammates to run in behind and led the line well, albeit without any real chance to seriously worry Thibaut Courtois in the first half.The shackles were off later on. Should have found the net twice in the space of two seconds from six yards but made up for it with a stonking first-time curler that sent this place into orbit.Copy linkCopiedMikel reactsA delighted Mikel Arteta told Prime Video: “Beautiful. So happy so proud of the team. We have the opportunity to make a lot of people proud and we certainly have done that. “I’ve never seen the stadium like this. Before the game they were already singing and already playing the game. “For big European nights you need the big stadiums that create atmosphere and you need individual magic moments and there you go.”That’s the beauty of whoever invented this sport. We hadn’t scored a free-kick since September, 2021. And tonight, against Real Madrid at home in the Champions League, we scored two in 13 minutes.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – MIDFIELDERSTHOMAS PARTEY – 8: A real calming influence in the first half with some neat turns and nice carries as well as a few crucial interceptions to defuse any Madrid counters. On top of that, he forced Thibaut Courtois into a decent stop with a low driving effort.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 8: A pressing machine. The Duracell Bunny has nothing on this man. The constant heartbeat of Arsenal’s shape and structure, while showcasing some neat bits of magic on the ball in Madrid territory.DECLAN RICE – 11Roberto Carlos eat your heart out. That’s how you score a free-kick. I’ve never heard a noise like it in this stadium and it was fully deserved. To do it once was epic. To do it twice was just outrageous.Rice will have been frustrated not to have scored in the first half, only to score one of the best goals of his career in the second half.At his galloping marauding best on and off the ball, getting forward as often and as quickly as possible with Thomas Partey shoring things up. This is the Rice we love to see, and should have got on the scoresheet.Came close to a first half close-range flick that was well blocked. His brilliant header was then palmed away by Thibaut Courtois.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – DEFENDERSMYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9: Is this kid genuinely only 18? Check his passport, someone? On such a big occasion he was unflappable, drifting into midfield, finding space and losing his markers on the ball with ease.One or two scary moments early on, but that’s the package with Lewis-Skelly right now, as well as being very fun to watch.JAKUB KIWIOR – 7: A big night for the Pole and his first touch did not fill fans with confidence, letting a throw-in bobble over his foot and allowing Kylian Mbappe an early shot on goal.Another iffy pass put William Saliba in all sorts of bother and Mbappe got in before the offside flag went up. Lucky not to be booked for a late swipe at Luka Modric just before the break, but battled his way through. WILLIAM SALIBA – 9: Had the unenviable task of keeping his fellow countryman Kylian Mbappe quiet without his defensive partner Gabriel, and do so magnificently at times. The Frenchman is slowly developing into one of the world’s very best defenders, proving it against the very team who want to pluck him away from North London this summer.JURRIEN TIMBER – 7: A real mixed bag in the opening 45 minutes, not helped by a nasty late challenge from Kylian Mbappe on his left ankle that took him a while to shake off. Some brilliant work down the right combining with Bukayo Saka, but was dispossessed by Jude Bellingham who fed Mbappe in behind that could have cost them.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – GOALKEEPERA look then at the player ratings for tonight’s home heroes.Jordan Davies runs the rule over the Gunners stars…DAVID RAYA – 7/10: Was lucky that Kylian Mbappe did not quite have his shooting boots on during the first half, but still had to stand tall and make it as tough as possible to find an angle, producing a diving stop just after the 30-minute mark.Remarkably, was barely tested. One of his quieter evenings against the reigning European champions with one of the best attacks in the game…Copy linkCopiedBukayo joyOn Bukayo Saka’s involvement in his first start for four months, Rice added: “Look, to come back in the time he has done is unbelievable. He’s a top guy. “We need to be ready for next week. The Bernabeu, what it’s like to play there. We need to be ready.”Copy linkCopiedQualification oddsThe job is only half done, blah blah blah….Arsenal have more than one foot in the semi finals. In fact, blowing it now would be one of the biggest collapses in English football.The bookmakers think so too, they’re now 1/14 to qualify.Real Madrid now 8/1….Copy linkCopiedOn his two free kick goalsRice added: “It’s been in the locker, but I’ve hit the wall too many times or it’s gone over the bar. “Originally we were going to cross it and then I’ve just seen the wall and the goalkeeper’s position. So I thought just go for it. And Bukayo said to just feel it.”The second one I had the confidence. I hit it. It’s not going to hit me now because there’s another leg to go. “I’m excited, I’m happy, I’m over the moon. But in a few years time this will really hit me that what I’ve done tonight was really special.Copy linkCopiedRice reactsDeclan Rice was asked about the message from the crowd before the game, telling Prime Video: “That’s been the message from the manager. “That was the message since the weekend. We need to be super convinced we can come and win this game. “As a group we were really convinced. We needed to score in the second half.”Copy linkCopiedElsewhereJust a quick note to say that Bayern have been beaten 2-1 at home by Inter in their first leg tie.Thomas Muller equalised with five minutes to go before Inter scored with a couple of minutes left.Copy linkCopied’Not surprised’On Rice’s two worldie free kicks, Merino added: “We had a few free-kicks in the past week that we didn’t score. “He has one of the best shooting abilities that I’ve seen in my career. “I’m not surprised, maybe you are. Hopefully more will come in the future.”Copy linkCopiedReactionMikel Merino told Prime Video: “We were talking in the dressing room about keeping the pace and tempo, obviously with the help of the crowd on our side. “The second half was amazing, we played with full gas from the side. “When this side plays like that the crowd go with us.”Copy linkCopiedFull match statsIn fact, here are the full stats from the game.Interesting to see the possession appear as close as it did given the numbers here…Copy linkCopiedStatsAgain, Charlie is absolutely spot on.If not for Thibaut Courtois, this could well and truly have been tie over.Arsenal had 12 shots on goal in the game, with ELEVEN of them ending up on target!He made a couple of top class saves, while a tremendous David Alaba clearance off the line stopped Mikel Merino scoring earlier than he did.Copy linkCopiedOn thatIn case you were wondering who it was that came out on top, Declan Rice has scored a rating of 11 out of 10 by our reporters.I’ve certainly never seen that before and I’m a bit confused by it.How is it only an 11!?Copy linkCopiedFrom Charlie Wyett at the EmiratesWell, this is a night that no Arsenal fan will ever forget. Not in their wildest dreams could they have imagined this.The reigning champions of Europe have turned up in north London and been absolutely torn apart. Battered.Had it not been for Real Madrid keeper Thibaut Courtois, Arsenal could have won by even more.Declan Rice scored two worldies and Mikel Merino grabbed the third but this was an outstanding team performance.England team-mates Rice and Jude Bellingham came face-to-face in midfield but there was only one winner.Copy linkCopied More

    • 250 Shares87 Views

      in Soccer

      Bayern Munich vs Inter Milan LIVE RESULT: Latest Champions League updates as Italians take narrow LEAD back to San Siro

      by

      INTER MILAN snatch an advantage against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.Following a back-and-forth first half, in which Bayern controlled general play, it would be the Italian giants who made the first break as Lautaro Martínez finished off a sweeping transition move. Substitute Thomas Müller would be picked out in the back post unmarked by Konrad Laimer to level the tie with five minutes to go, only for Inter to gallop down the other end minutes later with Carlos Augusto, who squared across to Davide Frattesi to bundle in. The defeat was Bayern’s first at home in the competition in four years. CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below… More

    • 250 Shares122 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal vs Real Madrid LIVE: Champions League quarter-final updates and team news with Saka set to START – stream FREE

      by

      ARSENAL are hosting Real Madrid at the Emirates in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final TONIGHT!The Gunners are boosted by the return of star winger Bukayo Saka, as they aim to beat the 15-time champions of Europe.Mikel Arteta rested key players Saka, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber in their 1-1 Premier League draw with Everton, indicating all their focus is on the Champions League. Jude Bellingham and Co already have recent success in the capital, having won last season’s Champions League final at Wembley, and will be looking to repeat the trick in north London.Kick-off time: 8pmTV channel/FREE live stream: Amazon Prime VideoArsenal team: Team news to follow…Real Madrid team: Team news to follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow Arsenal’s Champions League clash below…One awayThere are a handful of players on both sides who, if cautioned, would miss the second leg in a week. For Real Madrid, these are:Vinicius JuniorLucas VazquezEndrickEduardo CamavingaAntonio RudigerLuka ModricAnd for Arsenal, they are:Declan RiceJurrien TimberGabriel MartinelliCopy linkCopiedTime to step upAs one man rose, another man fell.Bukayo Saka could not even make it back onto the pitch before Mikel Arteta was handed yet another injury dilemma against Fulham.In the first half, star defender Gabriel went down injured, and has since been ruled out for the season. With Calafiori also out, this left Jakub Kiwior as the only other recognised centre-back in Arteta’s side. Will the Polish centre-half make a name for himself, or is this just fitness for Kiwior, as he reportedly heads for the exit door at the Emirates? Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal transfer newsWhile Arsenal are gearing up for their huge clash tonight, they are also gearing up for next season.SunSport has Gunners fans covered with all the rumours ahead of a BIG 2025/26 season.Copy linkCopiedBellingham vs.. VARDespite Jude Bellingham having a HUGE clash against Arsenal tonight, it seems his real enemy is VAR.Bellingham won the competition last season, then shone for England in the summer at the Euros.However, during Real’s loss to Valencia, Bellingham was seen booting the technology.Can you blame him going after the computers, after they predicted his side to lose tonight?Copy linkCopiedWho else is on tonight?There are four games over the next two days.Tonight, alongside the clash in the capital, Bayern Munich host Inter Milan. There are two more tomorrow night, as Aston Villa travel to PSG, and Barcelona host Borussia Dortmund. Copy linkCopiedThe computer has spoken…The supercomputer has spoken ahead of tonight’s clash… and it says Arsenal are FAVOURITES. According to the device, the Gunners are set for a first semi-final in 16 years.But, can they go all the way?Copy linkCopiedArteta wants fans to bring the noiseAhead of a huge clash, Arteta has urged his sides supporters to get behind the team ahead of the game.The Gunners need the Emirates bouncing if they are to throw Real Madrid off their game.Copy linkCopiedEarly team newsMadrid Xtra on X (fka Twittter) are reporting that David Alaba and Lucas Vazquez will both START for Real tonight. The account also hinted that the starting midfield for the defending champions would be Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham. Copy linkCopiedForm guideIn their last five, the Gunners are unbeaten. In fact, their unbeaten run stretches back to February 26, their last defeat coming at the hands of West Ham at the Emirates. Real Madrid don’t have to go back so far for their last defeat, it was last Saturday, at home to Valencia. Los Blancos only have two wins in five, but everyone knows the danger of their attack once they get going. Credit: Bradley Collyer/PA WireCopy linkCopiedFamiliar facesFor a side like Real, the phrase “the one that got away” seems obsolete, especially with the likes of Achraf Hakimi and Theo Hernandez blowing Europe away after once being on their books.But, Martin Odegaard was famously once at Real Madrid, aged just 16. A babyfaced Odegaard failed to have much, if any of an impact for Los Blancos, but he has grown into the player that made Madrid sign him back in 2015.His disappointing spell in the Spanish capital saw him allowed to leave on loan to Arsenal in January 2021, then making it a permanent switch in August that year.He is not the only familiar face between the sides.Dani Ceballos spent two years at the Emirates between 2019 and 2021.But, unfortunately for Ceballos, he will miss his grand return to his former side with a muscle injury.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedA first meeting since 2006Despite both sides European pedigree over the last 20 years, this is the first time they have met since the round of 16 in 2006.The two legged tie was a cagey affair between the two sides.Arsenal won at the Bernabeu, a certain Thierry Henry scoring the winner.The Gunners then held Real to a 0-0 draw at the Emirates, sending them through to the quarter-finals.Credit: CARMELO RUBIO/AFP via Getty ImagesCopy linkCopiedMbappe and Rudiger to PLAYBeating your rivals in any context is a huge deal, especially when it is on penalties in their own back yard in the Champions League.However, in the heat of the moment, UEFA decided Real went too far.Gestures made by Antonio Rudiger and Kylian Mbappe will see them miss one game, BUT, crucially, not this one.The pair were handed a suspended one-match ban, so they are both free to play the HUGE clash at the Emirates.Credit: REUTERS/Susana Vera/File PhotoCopy linkCopiedSaka’s big returnThe phrase “I’m back like I never left” can only be brandished in special situations, but Saka is truly back like he never left.His return to action has given the Gunners a huge boost ahead of tonight’s game.The winger scored less than 10 minutes into his return against Fulham in the Premier League.Having missed a long spell of the season, in which time Arsenal’s title hopes dwindled, Saka returned just in time.He will be looking for a huge impact, and to create some memories for the Emirates faithful.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal focus on the Champions LeagueIt is all or nothing for the Gunners in the Champions League, it seems.In hindsight, Arsenal should have started their key men against Everton, as the lead to Liverpool could now be single digits if they had beaten the Toffees.However, Saka, Odegaard and Timber all had to watch from the bench for a period on Sunday.Arteta’s key men on the bench, it seems all his eggs are in the Champions League basket.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGunner be a big oneWelcome to SunSport’s coverage of Arsenal vs Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final.Martin Odegaard steps up to his former side, looking to guide Arsenal into a first Champions League semi-final in 16 years.For Madrid, they are looking for a 16 themselves, but not a first semi-final in 16 years, rather a 16th title to add to their collection.The defending champions have previous success in London, winning the final at Wembley against Dortmund last season.Mikel Arteta’s team selection last time out against Everton points towards one thing for the Gunners: it is all or nothing in the Champions League.With an 11 point gap to close on Liverpool, the Gunners only have eyes for a first Champions League title in their history.Follow along with SunSport’s comprehensive blog of ALL the action from tonight’s HUGE clash.Copy linkCopied More