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    Europa Conference League draw LIVE: Chelsea get DREAM path to the final as they avoid big hitters – updates

    CHELSEA were handed a DREAM path to the final of the Europa Conference League.Enzo Maresca’s Blues are massive favourites for the competition after they come through the group phase with six wins and 25 goals, all while resting Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson.Chelsea will face Copenhagen in the round of 16 then the winner, and then the winner of Molde vs Legia Warsaw – importantly, the likes of Fiorentina and Real Betis are on the other side of the draw.The Round of 16 matches take place on March 6/13, while the quarter-finals are on April 10/17.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Making historyAs well as silverware, there are two big incentives for Chelsea to win this year’s Conference League.If they do so, they will become the first side to triumph in all three of Uefa’s main competitions.While winning it will also guarantee a place in next season’s Europa League – should their form in the Premier League drop away. Credit: PACopy linkCopiedChelsea’s route to the finalEnzo Maresca’s Blues are the big favourites to lift the Conference League after blitzing their way through the group stages.Following today’s draw, here’s their route to the final on May 28.Round of 16: CopenhagenQuarter-final: Molde or Legia WarsawSemi-final: Pafos, Djurgarden, Borac or SK RapidFinal: Real Betis, Vitoria SC, Jagielloina, Cercle Brugge, Celje, Lugano, Panathinaikos or FiorentinaCredit: PACopy linkCopiedDates for the diaryWith the final draw of the season now complete, we now know the route to the final in Warsaw in May.Here’s the schedule for the Conference League over the next 99 days: Round of 16: 6 & 13 MarchQuarter-finals: 10 & 17 AprilSemi-finals: 1 & 8 MayFinal: 28 MayCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedUefa make ‘exception’ for Chelsea and SpursUefa rules usually prevent two clubs in the same city, or within a 50km radius, hosting European matches on the same day.But the organisation have reportedly relaxed rules ahead of Chelsea and Spurs now both being in action on March 13.Chelsea will host Copenhagen at Stamford Bridge, while Tottenham welcome AZ Alkmaar to North London in the Europa League. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedKeep Palm and carry onChelsea won all of their group stage games on their way to the Conference League knockouts. Cole Palmer wasn’t registered by the club in the early stages of the competition, with the club preferring to keep the England star fit for domestic action.But Chelsea have now activated Palmer for the remainder of the tournament. Trevoh Chalobah and Mathis Amougou will also be available to Enzo Maresca against Copenhagen. Copy linkCopiedConference League draw in fullIf you’re just joining us after your lunch break, here’s a reminder of how the Conference League draw played out. Jagiellonia Bialystok vs Cercle BruggeMolde vs Legia WarsawCelje vs LuganoPafos vs DjurgardenPanathinaikos vs FiorentinaBorac vs Rapid ViennaReal Betis vs VitoriaCopenhagen vs ChelseaCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedMaresca rallying cryChelsea’s Enzo Maresca maintains that the Blues are targeting a top-four spot this season.And he’s called on Chelsea fans to stop looking backwards and instead embrace the run-in. Maresca said: “The only thing I can say is that every time the fans have been behind us, we really appreciate because we are sure that with the fans behind we can achieve soon our target.”We mention many times that when you can hear the fans pushing in behind [you], it is a nice feeling.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedChelsea vs Copenhagen head-to-headThe Blues are no strangers to the Danish club, with the last meeting coming in 2011.On that occasion, Copenhagen frustrated Chelsea to a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge. In the reverse fixture, a Nicolas Anelka brace gave Chelsea all three points in the Danish capital.Chelsea 1-1 Copenhagen – 22 October 1998, Cup Winners CupCopenhagen 0-1 Chelsea – 5 November 1998, Cup Winners CupCopenhagen 0-2 Chelsea – 22 February 2011, Champions LeagueChelsea 0-0 Copenhagen – 16 March 2011, Champions LeagueCopy linkCopiedAll Bets are offChelsea could be on a potential collision course with Real Betis if they reach the Conference League final.The Spanish side are currently 8th in LaLiga.Manchester United winger Antony is on loan at the club – and has hit three goals in five games since moving to Spain .Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – Blues learn fateChelsea will take on FC Copenhagen for a place in the last-eight of the Europa Conference League.The winner of that tie will face either Molde or Legia Warsaw in the quarters.While Enzo Maresca’s side are on the other side of the draw to both Fiorentina and Real Betis. Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw semi-final bracketSemi-final 1Jagiellonia Bialystok or Cercle Brugge vs Real Betis or VitoriaCelje or Lugano vs Panathinaikos or FiorentinaSemi-final 2Copenhagen or Chelsea vs Molde or Legia WarsawPafos or Djurgarden vs Borac or Rapid ViennaCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw quarter-final bracketJagiellonia Bialystok or Cercle Brugge vs Real Betis or VitoriaCelje or Lugano vs Panathinaikos or FiorentinaCopenhagen or Chelsea vs Molde or Legia WarsawPafos or Djurgarden vs Borac or Rapid ViennaCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw in fullJagiellonia Bialystok vs Cercle BruggeMolde vs Legia WarsawCelje vs LuganoPafos vs DjurgardenPanathinaikos vs FiorentinaBorac vs Rapid ViennaReal Betis vs VitoriaCopenhagen vs ChelseaCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestCopenhagen vs ChelseaCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestReal Betis vs Vitoria Copy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestBorac vs Rapid ViennaCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestPanathinaikos vs FiorentinaCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestPafos vs DjurgardenCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestCelje vs Lugano Copy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestMolde vs Legia WarsawCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestJagiellonia Bialystok vs Cercle BruggeCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestConvoluted draw explainer video finally over, time to get underway…Copy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestMichal Zewlakow is the legend introduced to draw out the ties.18 goals in over 450 career games – his entire montage consists of bone-crunching tackles and fist pumps to the crowd.Proper player. He also tips Chelsea to go all the way…Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestIt wouldn’t be a Uefa event without montages.We’re currently in the middle of a lengthy introduction, with all 16 teams getting their own slot. Draw soon…promise. Copy linkCopiedEuropa Conference League draw – latestAnother set change in Nyon for the third draw of the day. Pedro Pinto is earning his coin. He hosts yet again with Uefa bigwig Giorgio Marchetti about to introduce a legend to draw the ties. Credit: AFPCopy linkCopied More

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    Europa League draw LIVE: Man Utd and Tottenham opponents CONFIRMED as English sides on opposite sides of draw – updates

    MANCHESTER UNITED and Tottenham have found out their Europa League oppnents!The Red Devils and Spurs have been drawn onto opposite sides of the draw, making an all English final a huge possibility.United will face Real Sociedad, while Tottenham face AZ Alkmaar – whom they beat 1-0 in the group phase.The first leg of the round of 16 will take place on March 4/5, and the second leg will take place on March 11/12.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Tottenham’s route to the finalSpurs are hoping to end a trophy drought that stretches all the way back to 2008.Here’s the route they will have to take if they’re to win this season’s Europa League: Round of 16: AZ AlkmaarQuarter-final: Ajax or FrankfurtSemi-final: Viktoria Plzen, Lazio, Olympiakos or Bodo/GlimtFinal: Real Sociedad, Man Utd, FCSB, Lyon, Fenerbahce, Rangers, Roma or Athletic BilbaoCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedAmorim – United have ‘more problems than solutions’It’s been a tough start to life at Old Trafford for Ruben Amorim.Spain’s Real Sociedad are up next in the Europa League – and the Portuguese boss admits things have been a struggle since he joined in November.Amorim told the BBC: “What I feel is that sometimes you don’t feel improvement in the team but some games you think we can play and create situations. That is a good thing.”In this moment when you watch the games, you see more problems than solutions. “That is clear. When we play some games, I see things are there and we are capable but we have to be consistent.”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedCapital gains Chelsea and Spurs will both be in action at home on March 13 – and Uefa are happy for the games to go ahead. Uefa rules usually prevent two clubs in the same city, or within a 50km radius, from hosting European matches on the same day.But according to the Mail, the organisation have relaxed rules ahead of Chelsea and Tottenham now both being in action on March 13.Tottenham welcome AZ Alkmaar to North London in the Europa League, while Chelsea will face Copenhagen in the Europa Conference League. Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw in fullShould you just be joining us, here’s how the draw played out early in Nyon, Switzerland.The 16 remaining clubs have been sorted into their respective brackets. As such, Man Utd, Tottenham and Rangers can start plotting their route to the final in Bilbao. Here’s the draw for the last 16, along with who each team could face in the quarter-finals:Bodo/Glimt or Olympiacos vs Viktoria Plzen or LazioFenerbahce or Rangers vs Roma or Athletic BilbaoAZ Alkmaar or Tottenham vs Ajax or Eintracht FrankfurtFCSB or Lyon vs Real Sociedad or Man UtdCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedHome comforts Manchester United will face Real Sociedad in the last 16 of the Europa League – and will play the second leg at home.Often seen as an advantage in tournament football, the draw went in United’s favour for the latter stages. The Red Devils will also play the second leg at Old Trafford in both the quarter-final and semi-final, should they get that far. Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedTell me MourRangers face a tough task as they go up against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce in the last-16. The Special One loves his European football – he remains the only manager to have won all three current Uefa club competitions.Fenerbahce are currently second in the Turkish Super Lig, six points behind leaders Galatasaray. Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedTop providers in the Europa LeagueGoing into the round of 16, this is how the assist chart looks:Mertens – Galatasaray – 5 assistsCherki – Lyon – 4 assists Dzeko – Fenerbahce – 3 assistsCopy linkCopiedTop scorers in the Europa LeagueGoing into the round of 16, this is how the Golden Boot race looks:El Kaabi – Olympiacos – 7 goalsOsimhen, Varga, En-Nesyri, Aghehowa – 6 goalsHojlund, Akgun – 5 goalsCopy linkCopiedAnge’s second season spectacularAnge Postecoglou has insisted his sides always wins something in their second season. The Europa League is the last chance they have, as they are out of the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and out of the Premier League title race.They will have to beat AZ Alkmaar in the round of 16, and then either Ajax or Frankfurt in the quarter-final, before they could potetnaially meet group stage winners Lazio in the semi-finals.Copy linkCopiedAn all-English final?There is a chance that Manchester United and Spurs meet in the Europa League final this season!Spurs narrowly beat Amorim’s side last weekend, will they meet again in the final?Credit: Mark Pain/Alamy Live NewsCopy linkCopiedRangers learn their opponentRangers will face the Turkish League’s second placed side Fenerbahce in the round of 16.The sides last met in 2001, with the first leg ending 0-0, and the second leg ending 2-1.Credit: gettyCopy linkCopiedUnited’s problemAccording to OptaJoe on X, United haven’t won ANY of their three home games in Europa League history against Basque opposition.They have lost to Real Sociedad in 2022 and Athletic Club in 2012, and drew to Sociedad in 2021.Credit: Mark Pain/Alamy Live NewsCopy linkCopiedA rematchAZ Alkmaar and Tottenham will face off in a rematch of a game they have already played this season. Tottenham won 1-0, and Richarlison scored the only goal.Credit: REUTERS/Dylan MartinezCopy linkCopiedManchester United’s fate is decidedUnited will host Real Sociedad in the round of 16 in the Europa League. Sociedad have only one win over United, a 1-0 win in 2022.Of their four meetings in the Europa League, United have won two, lost one and drawn one.Copy linkCopiedEuropa League draw completeThere we have it.Tottenham will need to see off AZ Alkmaar to set up a clash with Ajax or Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals.Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd face Real Sociedad and could then take on either FCSB or Lyon in the last-eight. And Rangers will go up against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce, with Roma or Athletic Bilbao the prize in the quarters.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa League quarter-final bracketBodo/Glimt or Olympiacos vs Viktoria Plzen or LazioFenerbahce or Rangers vs Roma or Athletic BilbaoAZ Alkmaar or Tottenham vs Ajax or Eintracht FrankfurtFCSB or Lyon vs Real Sociedad or Man UtdCopy linkCopiedEuropa League last-16 draw in fullBodo/Glimt vs OlympiacosFenerbahce vs RangersAjax vs Eintracht FrankfurtFCSB vs LyonAZ Alkmaar vs TottenhamReal Sociedad vs Man UtdViktoria Plzen vs LazioRoma vs Athletic BilbaoCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestRoma vs Atletic BilbaoCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestViktoria Plzen vs Lazio Copy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestReal Sociedad vs Manchester UnitedCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestAZ Alkmaar vs Tottenham Copy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestFCSB vs LyonCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestAjax vs Eintracht FrankfurtCopy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestFenerbahce vs Rangers Copy linkCopiedEuropa League draw – latestBodo/Glimt vs Olympiacos Copy linkCopied More

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    Champions League draw LIVE: Arsenal handed HORROR draw as Aston Villa and Liverpool learn round of 16 fate – updates

    ARSENAL, Liverpool and Aston Villa have found out their Champions League Round of 16 opponents after a huge draw.The Gunners got a decent tie against PSV – but means they will now face the winner of Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid in the quarter-final.Aston Villa will face Club Brugge and Liverpool take on Benfica.The first leg of the round of 16 will take place on March 4/5, and the second leg will take place on March 11/12.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Arsenal’s route to the finalThe Gunners face a monumental task to win a maiden Champions League title.Arsenal go up against Dutch side PSV in the last-16, before a potential route to the final that includes Real Madrid, Liverpool and Barcelona.Round of 16: PSVQuarter-final: Atletico Madrid or Real MadridSemi-final: Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Club Brugge or Aston VillaFinal: Benfica, Barcelona, Dortmund, Lille, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Feyenoord or Inter MilanCredit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedLiverpool’s route to the finalArne Slot’s men will have to beat the very best if they are to lift Big Ears for the first time since 2019. With Paris Saint-Germain in the last-16, things get no easier as the draw progresses for the Premier League leaders.Round of 16: PSGQuarter-final: Aston Villa or Club BruggeSemi-final: Arsenal, PSV, Real Madrid or Atletico MadridFinal: Benfica, Barcelona, Dortmund, Lille, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Feyenoord or Inter MilanCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedMersen – Villa bring the noiseSky Sports pundit Paul Mersen believes Aston Villa can go far in this season’s tournament – thanks to their intimidating home atmosphere. Unai Emery’s men have already beaten Bayern Munich on home soil this season.They will now face Club Brugge for the chance to play either Liverpool or PSG in the last-eight.Mersen said: “Villa should have a real go in the Champions League. “The atmosphere at Villa Park during these European games has been incredible and they must keep it up in the knockout stages.”If they do that, they have a chance at progressing further.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedChampions League draw in fullA horror draw for both Liverpool and Arsenal – with Aston Villa potentially on a collision course with the Reds in the quarter-finals.Here’s how the ties came out of the hat in Nyon, with each team learning their potential last-eight opponent. PSG or Liverpool vs Club Brugge or Aston VillaPSV or Arsenal vs Real Madrid or AtleticoBenfica or Barcelona vs Dortmund or LilleBayern or Bayer Leverkusen vs Feyenoord or Inter MilanCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGrueling Gunners runArsenal’s tough Champions League draw will leave them facing a horror run of fixtures in March.The Gunners take on PSV on March 4, followed by a visit to Old Trafford to face Man Utd.They will then welcome PSV back to the Emirates on March 11, before welcoming Chelsea to North London five days later.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedWarnock – You have to beat the bestFormer Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock has tipped his former club to beat PSG – despite the “disappointing draw.”He told the BBC: “I think Liverpool will be slightly disappointed to draw PSG – ideally they would have liked Benfica.”But if you are going to win the Champions League, you are going to have to beat some big teams along the way.”Liverpool will fancy their chances against PSG, who have been a little bit hit and miss.”Copy linkCopiedFrench fancy History isn’t on Liverpool’s side ahead of their clash with PSG.The Reds have not won any of their past five away games against French clubs.You have to go back to 2008 for their last win on French soil, a Champions League victory against Marseille. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLiverpool vs PSG head-to-headPSG lead Liverpool on all metrics, other than clean sheets per 90, according to Squawka’s underlying stats.Of course, take this with a pinch of salt, as PSG beat Brest 10-0 on aggregate to reach the round of 16, whereas Liverpool didn’t play.Copy linkCopiedArsenal vs PSV head-to-headAccording to the underlying stats on Squawka, it will be defence vs attack in this one.Arsenal lead for clean sheet and expected goals against, whereas PSV lead for fast breaks and set-piece xG, but Arsenal lead on xG overall, surprising as their power from corners is no secret.PSV also attempt more shots and crosses.Copy linkCopiedAston Villa vs Club Brugge head-to-headAston Villa have performed better than Club Brugge considerably on the underlying numbers, according to Squawka.The have performed better in the following metrics:Clean sheetsxG against PossesionxGSet-play xGShots attemptedTouches in opposition bixPasses into opposition boxCrosses attempted Take-ons attemptedHowever, Emery must be cautious, as Club Brugge have show better performance in fast breaks, so their defensive line will have to be on high alert. Copy linkCopiedArsenal-PSV rerunArsenal and PSV met in the 2023/24 Champions League.On matchday one of the season, Arsenal were 4-0 winners, and then drew 1-1 with PSV in the Netherlands.Credit: gettyCopy linkCopiedWrong competition?Unai Emery is looking to win the Champions League with Aston Villa, but already has huge European pedigree. Emery has won the Europa League FOUR times, the most by a manager in history, but never the Champions League.Can he do it for the first time?Credit: Peter Byrne/PA WireCopy linkCopiedScores to settleThe Champions League website has Liverpool and PSG tied at one game a piece, with both games coming in the 2018/19 group stage.Liverpool won the first game 3-2 at Anfield, and then PSG won 2-1 in Paris.Something has to give as they do battle in the round of 16.Copy linkCopiedAston Villa’s first meeting with BruggeAston Villa have made a good account of themselves in the Champions League this season, and will face Club Brugge for the first time in the competition.Emery’s side finished in the top eight, and qualified automatically for the round of 16.They will be hoping to add two wins over Brugge to their record.Credit: Andrew Yates / SportimageCopy linkCopiedNot pretty for the EnglishLiverpool and Arsenal both have tough draws in the Champions League knockouts.Described as a “horror draw,” Liverpool and Arsenal have their work cut out for them if they want to win the Champions League.Copy linkCopiedGunner be toughArsenal fans are not excited about their prosepcts in the Champions League knockouts. Should they get beyond PSV, they will face either Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid, then either Liverpool, PSG, Aston Villa or Club Brugge in the semi-finals.Ouch.Copy linkCopiedIt’s been ages!According to X user OptaJoe, this will be the first meeting between Liverpool and PSG in a major European knockout since the semi-finals of the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1996/97.Of course, the two sides have met in the group stages since then.Credit: Molly Darlington/Copa/Getty ImagesCopy linkCopiedThe all-English quarter-final potentialThere is potential for an all-English quarter-final in the next round.Arne Slot’s Liverpool recently went to Villa Park, and were held to a 2-2 draw by Unai Emery’s side.If Liverpool were to get past PSG, and Aston Villa were to get past Club Brugge, then they would meet in the quarter-final.Credit: gettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal’s record vs PSVAccording to OptaJoe on X, Arsenal are unbeaten in all of their home matches against PSV (3W 2D).This also happens to be the longest they have played against a side in European competition without losing.Credit: Mike Egerton/PA WireCopy linkCopiedThe BIG derbies to look out for!Real and Atletico Madrid had some HUGE Champions League battles throughout the 2010’s, meeting in two finals.They also met once in the semi-finals, and one in the quarter-finals.On every occasion, Real Madrid got the better of their bitter rivals.Those two being drawn against each other also means the Bundesliga has a HUGE clash, as Bayer Leverkusen take on Bayern Munich. Bayern won 11 straight Bundesliga titles, but were toppled by Bayer Leverkusen last season, and the two now meet in the Champions League.Both ties promise to be entertainers! Copy linkCopiedEl Classico final?Barcelona and Real Madrid seems to be what people are looking at for the final after the round of 16 draw.One user on X (FKA Twitter) said “I speak for all Barcelona fans when I say it’s coming home,”And another user said “Never bet against Real Madrid.”The two have been drawn on opposite sides of the draw, and would only meet in the final.Credit: gettyCopy linkCopiedChampions League last 16 draw in fullBefore we get too ahead of ourselves looking at quarter-finals and the final four, here are the last-16 ties in full. A Spanish derby, an all-Bundesliga grudge match and No. 1 seed Liverpool drawing PSG. Tasty. The first legs for all these ties are set for March 4/5.Aston Villa vs Club BruggeLille vs DortmundAtletico Madrid vs Real MadridBayern vs Bayer LeverkusenFeyenoord vs Inter MilanPSV Eindhoven vs ArsenalPSG vs LiverpoolBenfica vs BarcelonaCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedFull bracketThere are no easy games at this stage.But the Road to Munich is suddenly looking a lot tougher for all three Premier League clubs than it did half an hour ago.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedChampions League draw complete Oof, a brutal draw for both Arsenal and Liverpool.The Gunners will have to get through PSV and either Real Madrid or Atletico to reach the semi-finals.While Liverpool’s reward for topping the group is a nightmare tie with Paris Saint-Germain in the last-16.Villa meanwhile get Club Brugge, but will face the winner of PSG or Liverpool in the quarters. Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedChampions League QF draw in fullPSG or Liverpool vs Club Brugge or Aston VillaPSV or Arsenal vs Real Madrid or AtleticoBenfica or Barcelona vs Dortmund or LilleBayern or Bayer Leverkusen vs Feyenoord or Inter MilanCopy linkCopied More

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    Real Madrid vs Man City LIVE: Champions League result and updates as Kylian Mbappe hits magical HAT-TRICK – latest

    MANCHESTER CITY were dominated by Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League knockout phase play off.Kylian Mbappe scored a stunning hat-trick as Real won 3-1 on the night, and a whopping 6-3 on aggregate.The result means it is the first time in 12 years that City failed to reached the Last 16 of Europe’s elite competition.Result: Real Madrid 3 Man City 0 (Real win 6-3 on aggregate)Real Madrid team: Courtois; Valverde, Rudiger, Asencio, Mendy; Tchouameni, Ceballos, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius JrMan City team: Ederson, Khusanov, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol, Nico, Gundogan, Bernardo, Foden, Savinho, MarmoushCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Match reportHow far and how fast the mighty have fallen. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, the dominant force in English football and a major European powerhouse for so long, are now not even close.Whenever they travel away to face an elite team, City are being hammered – at Liverpool, where the 2-0 scoreline flattered them immensely, at Arsenal where they were trounced 5-1. They were soundly beaten at Juventus and Paris St Germain too. And here in the Bernabeu tonight, they were taunted, tormented, toyed with and ultimately humiliated – the mocking ‘oles!’ of Real Madrid’s supporters ringing in their ears as Carlo Ancelotti’s men ran rings around them. On the eve of this match, Guardiola claimed he had been joking when he said City had only a ‘one per cent chance’ of overturning their 3-2 first-leg deficit. Well, within four minutes, those odds looked spot-on, after Kylian Mbappe had lobbed Ederson on his way to a high-class hat-trick.  Copy linkCopiedCreating the wrong historyOptaJoe say tonight’s defeat:meant Pep Guardiola hasn’t reached the knockout round of the Champions League for the first time in his career.was City’s 13th of the season in all competitions – the most Guardiola has suffered in any single season. With three months to go…saw the earliest goal Man City have conceded in the competition since October 2018 against HoffenheimCopy linkCopiedLast 16 completePSV have beaten Juventus in extra time to round off the last-16 contenders in Friday’s draw.Some top teams in it, City will be devastated to miss out.Seeded teamsLiverpoolBarcelonaArsenalInter MilanAtletico MadridBayer LeverkusenLilleAston VillaUnseededBayern MunichFeyenoordClub BruggeBenficaBorussia DortmundReal MadridPSGPSVCopy linkCopiedNext up for Madrid?They’ll find out in Friday’s draw.But it’ll be either ATLETICO MADRID or BAYER LEVERKUSEN in the next round.A local derby or game against last season’s Bundesliga Invincibles, coached by their former midfielder.Tasty.Copy linkCopiedJude reactsJude Bellingham says winning their defensive battle was key to allowing the forward players to do the damage.He told TNT Sports: “It was a good evening and a good performance from us. It was a really enjoyable game to play in. The most important thing for us was the defensive side of the game. “We knew that once we boxed that off we could attack with more freedom and that was the key tonight and in the other game.”They [Man City] have had some injuries and we are also on the back end of that and welcoming some of the lads back. He is important for us in terms of the leadership in the dressing room, having that loud presence before the game, particularly for us younger players. When we are at full strength we are a much better team.”You always want to play teams at their best and when you see Haaland is not in the team you obviously hope it is nothing serious. He is a good mate of mine and I hope it is not too bad. “You play against what you are up against and I thought we managed it well today. They still have other players that can step in and cause damage.”Copy linkCopiedDoesn’t get easierGuardiola said his focus now is on beating Liverpool this weekend, then the next game and compete for top four.Things don’t get much easier, with Liverpool (H), Tottenham (A) and Nottingham Forest (A) the next three league games.Plymouth at home in the FA Cup looks a tricky game the way things are going too.Copy linkCopiedPep reactsPep Guardiola told TNT Sports: “After we conceded the goal it was more and more difficult.“The best team won, so congratulations to Real Madrid. Our focus is now all on the Premier League.“In the 180 minutes we had a good 30-35 minutes in the first half of the first leg.“Not just Kylian, they have a fantastic team. They deserve to go through.“It’s the first time we didn’t have a good Champions League run so we need to fight to be back in this competition again next year.“They’ll be a contender but there are other good teams. It’ll be interesting.”Copy linkCopiedFinal 16So 16 teams remain in the top competition.Well 17 at the minute as PSV and Juventus are into extra time in their play-off round.Seeded teamsLiverpoolBarcelonaArsenal Inter Milan Atletico Madrid Bayer Leverkusen Lille Aston Villa UnseededBayern MunichFeyenoordClub BruggeBenficaBorussia DortmundReal MadridPSGPSV / JuventusCopy linkCopiedKyl-er instinctKylian Mbappe says it was only logical that Madrid would reach the next round and he’s thriving now his adaptation period is over.He told Uefa’s website: “A perfect night for the team. We wanted to win. “We wanted to qualify for the next round. For us it was only logical that Real Madrid reached the next round of the Champions League.”When you play against Manchester City it is always a difficult game but we knew that at home we would be very strong. We played better as a group and we were able to give a lot of joy to the fans. We have to continue in this way if we are to win what we want to win this season.”I want to play well here, I want to make a mark on the season. I want to write history with Real Madrid. The adaptation period for me has ended and now I have to show my quality.”Copy linkCopiedFinal statsPlenty times covering Man City I’ve said they’re keeping possession for possession’s sake.No real threat, nobody to play that pass that Kevin de Bruyne does.They’ve ended up with more possession than Real Madrid tonight. Only when Madrid let them have it though.But to barely threaten the Madrid goal highlights that point earlier in this post.Copy linkCopied’Miles off it’Ex-England keeper Paul Robinson told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Manchester City are miles off it. They really are. “We have seen them lose games in the Premier League that we wouldn’t have expected them to lose. “But look in the Champions League, losing away wat Sporting, the loss at Juventus, the way that they capitulated at Paris St-Germain. “There have been signs of their form coming back in the league but tonight highlighted all the flaws that they have got.”Copy linkCopiedMan of the matchProbably no surprise that his hat trick also earned a man of the match award for Kylian Mbappe.A terrific night for him though he didn’t have to work overly hard for it.Copy linkCopiedUnwanted historySo exit from the Champions League before it even gets juicy.The damage was done in an appalling league phase and they’ll be looking back at chances missed.It’s the first time in the Pep Guardiola era and first time since the 2012/13 season that they’ve been dumped from Europe before the knockout stage really begins.Nobody could’ve seen this coming four months ago.Copy linkCopiedFull time from Martin Blackburn at the BernabeuThese two teams have produced some incredible drama in recent years – but there was none of it here. As easy as it gets for Real who completely outclassed a bitterly disappointing City side – and won thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s wonderful hat-trick. A late goal from Nico Gonzalez was no consolation at all.A rare early exit for Guardiola’s men but they only have themselves to blame for a turbulent group stage. Copy linkCopiedFULL TIMEManchester City exit the Champions League before the round of 16 with a whimper.REAL MADRID 3-1 MAN CITY – AGG: 6-3Copy linkCopied90+1 – Real Madrid 3-1 Man City (agg: 6-3)Marmoush’s free kick hits the crossbar and bounces back into the six-yard box.The Madrid defence are all sleepy and Nico drifts in all alone to tap it uncontested into an empty net.Ironic cheers from the Manchester City supporters, which in turn are cheered by the Madrid fans.Copy linkCopied90+1 – GOAL! Real Madrid 3-1 MAN CITYNico Gonzalez grabs a consolation in stoppage time.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Another City free kick as Camavinga penalised.This one 25 yards from goal and central, so it opens up the chances someone else can take it.Copy linkCopied90 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Two minutes added.Copy linkCopied90 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Marmoush’s free kick sums up City’s night. Pathetic.Straight into the wall.Madrid make two more changes for the final seconds:OFF: Vinicius Jr and ValverdeON: Endrick and AlabaCopy linkCopied89 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)McAtee seems to be elbowed in the head inside the penalty area.The referee gives the foul but gives a free kick.VAR are checking it and should give a penalty. Somehow, he backs the referee’s decision and gives the free kick.That Madrid referee pressure carries some weight, eh….Copy linkCopied88 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Khusanov does well to collect the second ball and nutmegs Asencio before striking at goal.It hurts Courtois in a sore area – that’ll wake him up – and goes behind for another corner.Copy linkCopied86 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Savinho’s attempted cross from the left hits the first man.Gvardiol then slides a clever pass into the box for McAtee but he’s followed by Modric who gets back well to concede the corner.MADRID, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 19: Omar Marmoush of Manchester City looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between Real Madrid C.F. and Manchester City at Santiago Bernabeu on February 19, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)Copy linkCopied85 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Good build-up from Madrid as Modric finds Vinicius Jr charging down the right.He pings it to the edge of the box to find Bellingham, who slides in Rodrygo on the left but his attempt at running round the ball and getting a good strike on goal isn’t great.It rolls harmlessly for Ederson to pick up.Copy linkCopied81 – Real Madrid 3-0 Man City (agg: 6-2)Another Madrid change as we countdown to the final whistle.The stark contrast of what Madrid are bringing off the bench compared to City is telling.OFF: TchouameniON: ModricCopy linkCopied More

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    Aston Villa vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Alexander-Arnold seals vital draw but league leaders drop points

    LIVERPOOL have drawn 2-2 with Aston Villa in a thrilling Premier League clash.The Reds blew the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table to 10 points after Ollie Watkins and Youri Tielemans struck to complete a remarkable turnaround in the first-half.Trent Alexander-Arnold levelled it for the Reds to put Arne Slot’s side eight points clear, though they have played a game more than Arsenal in second place.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the action below… More

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    Bayern Munich 1 Celtic 1 (3-2 on Agg): Late heartache as Davies sucker punch sees Hoops crash OUT despite Kuhn Leveller

    THEY were dared to dream.Challenged to leave nothing out there to try and make the impossible possible.Nicolas Kuhn levels the tieAlphonso Davies of Bayern Munich celebrates his winnerCredit: GettyBrendan Rodgers’ Celtic did that and more in the Allianz Arena last night – but were still left devastated.Nicolas Kuhn scored against his old club Bayern to make their fans belief.But cruelly in the final, dying seconds of four minutes of stoppage time Alphonso Davies booked the Bundesliga giants’ place in the last 16.Rodgers’ side were moments away from taking this tie into extra-time after producing a performance no-one saw coming.It just wasn’t meant to be with gut-wrenching agony coming with virtually the last kick of the ball.But the Scottish Premiership champions did themselves and the country proud.It’s incredible to think Celtic had FOUR huge chances to score inside the first 20 minutes.Real, proper opportunities to take the lead and really stun their opposition.They set traps for Bayern.And the German, Bundesliga giants walked right into them.Awkward moment Martin O’Neill calls out Brendan Rodgers over 2019 Celtic exit to Leicester Callum McGregor just needed to show a little bit more composure when he burst through on goal instead of going for power and missing the target.Kuhn just needed to get a little bit more on his shot which was cleared off the line by defender Raphaël Guerreiro.Daizen Maeda just needed to take a step forward when Arne Engels flashed as low ball across goal and he would have had a tap in.Just seconds later he just needed to take a little bit off his attempted chip over Manuel Neuer.Down on the touchline Rodgers held his head in his hands at each passed up chance, fearing they’d live to regret them.What the moments did, though, was convince Celtic’s players they could cause Bayern problems.It wasn’t backs to the wall either.It wasn’t a Scottish team defending for its life.Celtic were outstanding in the first-half.The odds were always stacked against Rodgers’ side even before a ball was kicked.Bayern hadn’t lost at home in UEFA’s flagship competition for four long years.While Celtic came here knowing they had never won on German soil. Alphonso Davies celebrates his winnerCredit: AFPEver.Rodgers talked the talk in the build-up – insisting anything was possible – but it was a huge ask for his players to go out and walk the walk. Bayern had the added incentive of this season’s final being here in their awesome Allianz Arena on May 31.The last time that happened, in 2012, they were left devastated to lose to Chelsea in a penalty shootout.The German giants have lifted the trophy twice in the years since. But the prospect of going all the way this time was there for them.Ending that dream felt insurmountable for Celtic.There wouldn’t have been many of their supporters who were genuinely confident of seeing history being created.Rodgers and his team have given them some special European memories this season with big wins over the likes of Slovan Bratislava, RB Leipzig and Young Boys, along with draws against Atalanta, Dinamo Zagreb and Club Brugge.Sure, the defeats to Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa were humbling.But overall Rogers can point to genuine progress at this elite level. And this performance typified that like nothing else.Bayern would have been worried at the break, no doubt about it.Celtic’s Cameron Carter-Vickers stands dejected after the Allianz Arena clashCredit: PAThey had moments of their own in front of Kasper Schmeichel’s goal with Harry Kane closest to scoring with a shot from outside the box which rattled the crossbar.Jamal Musiala and Michael Olise were always a threat.But the way Celtic defended, the way they got back into their shape when they lost possession, was sensational.Seeing Kane fail to appear for the second half was a boost for Celtic.Kompany clearly wasn’t kidding when he rated the England striker as an injury doubt, even though he started.Because other than the shot off the woodwork he did next to nothing.Bayern could have gone ahead right at the start of the second half but Schmeichel denied Leon Goretzka with a good block.But Celtic’s composure remained.After an hour Rodgers changed it with Jota taken off after running out of energy. Adam Idah went opt and was pushed through the middle with Maeda moved onto the left.And in 63 minutes they attacked on the break to take the lead.Defender Dayot Upamecano didn’t cover himself in glory with his attempted challenge on Kuhn after brilliant play from Maeda.But what a finish from the winger.Celtic’s Arne Engels stands dejected after the UEFA Champions League matchCredit: PAAfter powering his way into the box, he steadied himself and slammed his shot low and hard past Neuer.The away fans high up in the stands went wild as they started to dream big.Bayern were stunned.This wasn’t in the script with Celts more than worth their lead on the night.They still had it all to do, though, with Kompany’s side going all out to get the next goal and book their place in the next round.Schemeichel made saves with his team-mates in front him throwing themselves in front of shots to protect their lead.They were literally seconds away from taking the tie to extra time after four minutes of stoppage time.But agonisingly, it wasn’t means to be.In their very last attack of the night, a cross into the box saw Schmeichel save a point blank header.But the ball broke between Davies and Carter-Vickers with it finding the net.The final whistle was blown and it was over.Bayern Munich XI: Neuer, Stanisic, Upamecano, Kim, Guerreiro, Kimmich, Goretzka, Olise, Musiala, Gnabry, Kane. Subs: Urbig, Sane, Coman, Dier, Palhinha, Davies, Ito, Boey, Vidovic, Müller, Laimer, Pavlovic.Celtic X: Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Schlupp, McGregor, Engels, Hatate, Kühn, Maeda, Jota. Subs: Sinisalo, Bain, Scales, Taylor, Idah, Yang, McCowan, Nawrocki, Kenny, Murray, Ralston, Bonnar.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Tottenham vs Man Utd LIVE SCORE: Injury-stricken United name EIGHT academy kids on bench while Vicario returns for Spurs

    MANCHESTER UNITED travel to the capital for a huge Premier League clash with Tottenham.The two English giants have endured very poor seasons so far, and they both sit in the bottom half of the table ahead of kick off.Pressure is mounting on Spurs boss Ange Postecoglu following Carabao Cup and FA Cup exits last week.Elsewhere, Ruben Amorim is still struggling to find any consistency with his up and down Man Utd side.Kick off time: 4.30pm GMTTV channel: Sky Sports Main Event/Premier LeagueLive stream: NOW/Sky Sports appTottenham team: Vicario, Porro, Danso, Davies, Spence, Bergvall, Bentancur, Maddison, Kulusevski, Tel, SonMan Utd team: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Dorgu, Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Garnacho, Zirkzee, HojlundCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…All change, please!Injuries and poor form has meant that both Ange Postecoglou and Ruben Amorim have rung the changes for this afternoon’s clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.In fact, today’s meeting is the first Premier League game to see both teams make five or more alterations to their previous starting line-ups in the league since Chelsea versus Manchester City in May 2023.Copy linkCopiedForwards start together againThe much-maligned pairing of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee are set to start a Premier League game together for just the second time.And the pair will be hoping for better fortune than the first occasion when Manchester United went down 2-0 at home to Newcastle, a match in which Zirkzee was subbed off after just 33 minutes.Copy linkCopiedRival watch Liverpool have beaten Wolves 2-1 despite a late scare.Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah struck before half-time to give the Reds a 2-0 lead.Salah had the ball in the net a third time after the break but was ruled offside.Matheus Cunha then scored a screamer late on to set up a tense finale.Wolves piled up on the pressure but were unable to find an equaliser at Anfield.Arne Slot’s side move back to seven points clear at the top of the table.Meanwhile, Wolves remain on 19 points just above the relegation zone. And importantly for Spurs and Man Utd, they remain eight and ten points behind respectively.Copy linkCopiedCopy linkCopiedSpurs welcome backIt’s a high-five for Spurs as they welcome back five senior stars into their squad, three of which go straight into the starting XI.Vicario and Maddison are both back in the starting XI.Wilson Odobert, Brennan Johnson, and Destiny Udogie are back in the squad after being named on the bench.Copy linkCopiedDoes Daniel Levy own Spurs and what is his net worth?Daniel Levy is the chairman of Tottenham Hotspur.He is the longest-serving chairman of any Premier League club, having taken over the role from Alan Sugar in 2001.However, he has a far from ideal relationship with fans owing to the club’s poor performances and lack of silverware, with the North London club last winning a trophy in 2008 when they lifted the League Cup.Things were looking up during Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure with the club a regular name in the Champions League, even making the final before losing to Liverpool in 2019.Levy oversaw the building of a brand-new, state-of-the-art, £1.2billion stadium, which has helped Spurs become a financial powerhouse.Copy linkCopiedTwo more United stars sickLeny Yoro and Christian Eriksen were taken sick today.Talk about adding insult to injury for Amorim.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd name EIGHT kids on their benchMan Utd have named EIGHT teenagers on their bench today. Elyh Harrison, Harry Amass, Tyler Fredricson, Ayden Heaven, Jack Fletcher, Sekou Kone, Jack Moorhouse and Chido Obi are all named.Seven of these stars are straight from the academy. And seven of them were also born AFTER the Glazers took control of the club.Heaven does not count as academy after going straight into the first-team following his transfer from Arsenal earlier this month.Meanwhile, Victor Lindelof is the solo senior star, though he has only just returned from injury.Copy linkCopiedLine-ups The line-ups are out.Tottenham: Vicario, Porro, Danso, Davies, Spence, Bergvall, Bentancur, Maddison, Kulusevski, Tel, SonMan Utd: Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Dorgu, Dalot, Casemiro, Fernandes, Garnacho, Zirkzee, HojlundCopy linkCopiedMore protest picturesThe back-drop of today’s game will undoubtedly be clouded by Tottenham fan’s protests outside the ground.Their fury is mainly directed towards chairman Daniel Levy.Read up on the Spurs chairman here.Credit: PACredit: PACredit: PACopy linkCopiedTeam walkTottenham stars were pictured walking around the pitch before kick-off.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedAlan Shearer predictionAlan Shearer has given his say on how he reckons this fixture will go. Speaking to Betfair, he said: It’s a tough one to call. Man United had a good result in the FA Cup but I certainly wasn’t impressed with them.Spurs were really weak against Aston Villa.Two teams who have been massively struggling for different reasons. Because Spurs have beaten them already this season, I’ll go for a home win.Alan ShearerBetfairCopy linkCopiedHead to head Spurs have beaten United twice so far this season.Once in a 3-0 demolition in the league at Old Trafford and then at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in a 4-3 thriller in the League Cup quarter-finals.The overall record is heavily in Man Utd’s favour with 96 wins in the history of the clash compared to Spurs’ 56, while there have also been 51 draws.That being said, United have not beaten Spurs in any of the last five meetings, with Postecoglou being in charge of four of those clashes.The aggregate score in the four meetings managed by Postecoglou is 11-5 in Spurs’ favourThe last time Man Utd won against Spurs was in October 2022, while the last time they won away was in October 2021.Copy linkCopiedForm guideTottenham – They have won five or their last six matches in all competitions.Beating Brentford 2-0 in their last league game ended a run seven games without a win dating back to December 15.They are searching for their first back-to-back wins in the league since September when they ironically beat Man Utd after beating Brentford. Man Utd – Despite the negative atmosphere surrounding the club, United have won six of their last eight games in all competitions.However, they have won only three of their last 10 league matches.They are looking to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat at home to Crystal Palace, but won their last away clash in London against Fulham. Copy linkCopiedSpurs fans protestTottenham fans have launched a huge protest against the club’s owners and chairman today.Spurs fan group Change For Tottenham have unveiled banners at the ground as they prepare to march before the game.One of the banners reads: “24 Years, 16 Managers, 1 Trophy. Time For Change.”Another reads: “We Want Our Club Back. Levy Out.”Credit: X/@ChangeForSpursCredit: X/@OMyles90Copy linkCopiedCarrington reinforcementsAs many Man Utd bosses have been forced to do in the past, Amorim has turned to the Carrington Academy to bolster his thin senior squad.Five youngsters – Sekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse, Elyh Harrison and Chido Obi – have all travelled with the first team for the Premier League fixture.With 11 stars now out injured, Amorim will be hoping the teenagers can provide an injection of energy to alleviate some of the pressure on the first team.Copy linkCopiedSpurs stars on the comebackWhile Man Utd have been plunged into injury crisis, Spurs have been forced to deal with the consequences of injuries for most of the season.Ange Postecoglou’s side has been devastated by a seemingly unending convertor belt of stars heading to the treatment room.However, this week things finally seem to be looking up as Spurs are set to welcome back three key stars to their squad.The Aussie revealed that Guglielmo Vicario, Destiny Udogie and James Maddison were all fit enough to play a part in the fixture.Meanwhile, Postecoglou also confirmed Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert and Timo Werner had all returned to training this week, though it is currently unclear whether they will play any part.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd injury calamityMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim said his squad had enjoyed a good week in training until they suffered some setbacks.Yesterday it was revealed those setbacks were a QUADRUPLE injury blow to Amorim’s travelling squad today.Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer were all reported to be doubtful for the game.Meanwhile, Amad Diallo suffered a potentially season-ending injury further shorten the Red Devils options up front.Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon football fansWelcome to SunSport’s live blog of Tottenham v Manchester United.I’m Tony Robertson here to provide you with all the build-up for today’s clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Over the last decade clashes between these two sides have resulted in pivotal moments deciding on who makes European spots in the Premier League.However, this season, both clubs are have fallen far away from those lofty heights.Today’s 4.30pm clash sees Man Utd in 14th and hosts Tottenham in 15th.We hope you will stick with us as we bring you all the latest news from the clash. 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    Liverpool vs Wolves LIVE RESULT: Liverpool extend Premier League lead to seven points after edging past Wolves

    LIVERPOOL are facing Wolves RIGHT NOW as they look to extend their lead at the top of the table to seven points.The Reds are aiming to bounce back from their late shock against rivals Everton during the week, when the Toffees lashed in a stunning 98th-minute equaliser.Wolves, meanwhile, will be looking to gain more distance between themselves and the drop zone.Kick-off time: 2pmTV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the latest updates below… More