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      Chelsea vs Djurgarden LIVE SCORE: Conference League updates as Maresca’s Blues close in on final spot – latest

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      CHELSEA host Djurgarden in the second leg of their Conference League semi-final TONIGHT.The Blues are all but in the final after Enzo Maresca’s men dominated the first leg last week with a 4-1 win.It would require a monumental collapse from Chelsea for them not to progress past the Swedish minnows this evening.Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 3Live stream: discovery+Chelsea team: To follow…Djurgarden team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Cole Palmer back in the goalsCole Palmer spent a while away from the back of the net, but managed to get a HUGE goal to secure Chelsea a win over Liverpool at the weekend.Copy linkCopiedOne for the futureEstevao has got Chelsea fans excited, with his talent getting him compared to the likes of Neymar.He scored another stunning goal for Palmeiras last weekend, can he bring the talent to London?Copy linkCopiedA big momentum builderChelsea picked up three crucial points in their pursuit of the Champions League on their way into this clash.They beat Premier League champions Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.Admittedly, Liverpool have nothing to play for, so once going 2-0 down, motivation to get back into it would have been low.But, for Cole Palmer, ending his run without a goal would have been a much better feeling than three points.Can he kick on tonight, and guide Chelsea into the Conference League final?Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon!Here we go! Chelsea have one foot in the Europa Conference League final and are facing Djugarden at home to finish their semi-final job.Enzo Maresca’s side hold a 4-1 lead over the Swedish side heading into the second leg and should be confident of reaching the final in Poland.The Blues have a full strength squad to choose from with even Marc Guiu having a chance to get back into the side.Big night ahead in West London!Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      PSG vs Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Gunners CRASH OUT of Champions League as Parisians make Arteta’s side pay for missed chances

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      ARSENAL are out of the Champions League following a 3-1 aggregate defeat to PSG in the semi-finals.After a frantic start, the Parisians took total control when Fabian Ruiz’s thunderbolt gave the hosts a 2-0 lead in the tie.In the 69th minute, PSG were handed a controversial penalty, but David Raya came to Arsenal’s rescue as the Spaniard kept out Vitinha’s woeful spot kick.Moments later, the Gunners did fall further behind after Achraf Hakimi slotted home to make it 3-0 on aggregate.Bukayo Saka gave Arsenal hope with more than a quarter of an hour to play, but it wasn’t to be for Mikel Arteta’s side as PSG head to Munich to face Inter Milan in the Champions League final later this month.Match result: PSG 2-1 Arsenal (AGG 3-1)PSG team: Donnarumma, Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes, Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz, Doue, Barcola, KvaratskheliaArsenal team: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly, Partey, Rice, Odegaard, Merino, Saka, MartinelliCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Hakimi hails ‘genius’ EnriqueAchraf Hakimi played another starring role for Paris Saint-Germain, and then paid tribute to the manager who has led them to the final showdown in Munich.The Moroccan right-back scored the important second goal at the Parc des Princes, but was quick to shine the spotlight on his Spanish coach afterwards.Having lost some star individuals, Enrique has rebuilt the club to produce a young, exciting side that play together as a team more than any other PSG outfit in recent memory.Luis Enrique has done an incredible job since he’s arrived. He’s created a fantastic team, and there’s a lot of work that goes into doing that. He’s a master. He’s a genius.Achraf HakimiCanal+Copy linkCopiedGunners starved of semi successAfter elimination in Paris, Arsenal have now failed to progress from each of their last four major cup semi-finals.It is the club’s their longest ever losing run at this stage of competitions, and all four exits have come under the management of Mikel Arteta.3-2 agg defeat v PSG (Champions League, 2024-25)4-0 agg defeat v Newcastle (League Cup, 2024-25)2-0 agg defeat v Liverpool (League Cup, 2021-22)2-1 agg defeat v Villarreal (Europa League, 2020-21)Copy linkCopiedSaka makes mark on biggest stageIt wasn’t to be for Arsenal but Bukayo Saka did at least give the Gunners hope late on – and something to celebrate too.In scoring, Saka brought up his 10th Champions League goal in what is just his 18th appearance in the competition.The only Englishman to reach 10 goals in fewer Champions League games is Harry Kane (12).Copy linkCopiedOdegaard: We gave our allArsenal captain Martin Odegaard believes his side did all they could in the cauldron of the Parc des Princes.Speaking after the Gunners’ Champions League semi-final elimination, the midfielder revealed he was proud of the team’s effort, adding that fine margins at either end were the difference.We gave it a proper go. We started the game really well, were on the front foot, had the momentum and created a few big chances. In the end, it wasn’t enough. I think between the boxes we did well, and then inside the boxes we weren’t good enough over the two legs. Credit to their goalkeeper, who made some great saves.Martin OdegaardTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedDonna go all the wayIt’s been a difficult couple of seasons for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, but performances like tonight will go a long way to restoring his reputation as one of the best in the world.The Italian made superb stops to deny Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, helping to keep a rampant Arsenal at bay in the opening 20 minutes at the Parc des Princes.Copy linkCopiedHistory-making Myles going placesMyles Lewis-Skelly was given a difficult night by PSG’s stellar attack, but that shouldn’t take away from what is a fabulous personal achievement.At 18 years and 223 days, the left-back became the fifth-youngest player, the youngest English player, and the youngest player for an English club, to start both legs of a Champions League semi-final.Copy linkCopiedArteta: Donnarumma was the differenceMikel Arteta believes his Arsenal team would be in the Champions League final had it not been for the heroics of PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.The Italian stopper made a series of fine saves over the two legs, and was at his best when Arsenal started on the front foot at the Parc des Princes.Firstly, congratulations to PSG for reaching the final. The assessment I will make when I am a little cooler. When you look at the two games, the best player on the pitch has been their goalkeeper. He has been the difference for them in the tie. We were very close, much closer than the result showed but unfortunately we are out. I am very proud of the players.Mikel ArtetaTNT SportsCopy linkCopied201 and out for ArsenalSo Paris Saint-Germain have reached just their fourth major European final.The Parisians reached the 1996 and 1997 Cup Winners’ Cup finals, winning the first of those, and then made 2020 Champions League final that they lost behind closed doors in Lisbon to Bayern Munich.As for Arsenal, they have been eliminated at the semi-final stage of Europe’s premier competition for the first time since 2008-09.Tonight was their 201st match in the Champions League, the most of any club who have never lifted the trophy.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from the Parc des PrincesArsenal produced an xG of 3.14 tonight, the most by a team against Paris SG in a Champions League game this season.Their 19 shots were also their most in a knockout match since having 20 away at Barcelona in March 2016.The Gunners went down fighting.Copy linkCopiedFull time – PSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)It’s all over! Paris Saint-Germain are off to Munich in three weeks to face Inter Milan in the final of the Champions League.As the fireworks begin again, the Arsenal players sink to their knees, but they can at least take solace in a committed second leg performance.”I think Arsenal did enough to get something from tonight,” says Ally McCoist. “But I’m not sure it was enough to win the tie.”PSG will prepare for their second Champions League final, while Arsenal will turn their attentions back to the Premier League and ensuring they finish second so that they can return to the biggest European stage again next term.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)90+4. Arsenal’s season is close to a conclusion, but they have beaten over two legs by a fabulous football team.PSG will take some stopping in the final.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)90+2. Trossard makes room for himself in the box after cutting in from the left.For a moment, the path looks clear, but as the Belgian gets his shot away, a sea of PSG defenders dive across to block.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)90. Five minutes of additional time are signalled by the fourth official.The Gunners now need something remarkable, something of Lucas Moura proportions to progress. Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)88. That man Kvaratskhelia wins a throw-in with a determined tackle, and responds by whipping the crowd up.I’m not sure these home fans need much incentive, mind you. They’re two minutes plus stoppages away from another Champions League final.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)86. Now Saka goes into the book.The England international isn’t too sure why, but he’s been penalised for a challenge on the halfway line.UEFA and Opta suggest it’s for dissent, but I can’t imagine that – he’s a lovely boy.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)84. Calafiori and Kvaratskhelia are both booked for a barney off the ball, and it’s exactly the kind of thing that teams trying to run the clock down love to see.More time ticks away, and Munich is in sight for Paris Saint-Germain.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)82. Mikel Arteta’s lack of attacking options are being highlighted here.Riccardo Calafiori has already been introduced, and now Ben White is on with Arsenal desperate for goals.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)79. Saka again!! Yes!!No!! It’s over!! Somehow, Bukayo Saka has missed an open goal from 10 yards out!!The Arsenal star gets on the end of a whipped cross from Calafiori on the left, only to steer it over the crossbar with the goal gaping.Whether it was the pace of the delivery, the dive of Donnarumma before him or the fact that he was leaning back, it was a chance you would expect Saka to score every single time.How different this upcoming 10 minutes could have been.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-1 Arsenal (Agg: 3-1)76. No more than a consolation or the start of something special?!Bukayo Saka has Arsenal on the scoresheet for the first time in the tie, and maybe, just maybe…Substitute Leandro Trossard outmuscles Marquinhos on the left, and with the PSG players appealing for a foul, referee Felix Zwayer waves play on.The Belgian centres for Saka, who gets some good fortune with a kind bounce off Willian Pacho and then Lucas Hernández, allowing him to tap into an empty net.Copy linkCopiedLate hope!Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 3-0)74. “Arsenal are playing for the badge now,” says Martin Keown on TNT Sports commentary.Copy linkCopiedPSG 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 3-0)72. Achraf Hakimi spells the end of Arsenal’s Champions League campaign!PSG’s marauding right-back makes his mark in the opposition penalty area once again, finishing with the aplomb of a top-level centre-forward time after time.Here he takes advantage of a lacklustre challenge from Thomas Partey to nip, receive a tidy lay-off from substitute Ousmane Dembele, and steers into the far corner beyond David Raya.It’s a goal that almost takes the roof off the Parc des Princes, and has PSG heading to Munich to take on Internazionale.Copy linkCopiedGame over!Copy linkCopiedPSG 1-0 Arsenal (Agg: 2-0)70. Arsenal must take advantage of that Raya save, and they have to do it now.Otherwise, it’s game over.Copy linkCopiedPSG 1-0 Arsenal (Agg: 2-0)69. David Raya saves Vitinha’s penalty!It’s an awful spotkick from the Portuguese midfielder, who stutters in the slowest of run-ups before rolling it softly towards the bottom right corner.That would have sealed this semi-final tie, but the midfielder’s miscue means Arsenal still have hope to cling to.Raya is congratulated by his teammates, but quickly reminds them that they have a huge job to do!Copy linkCopied More

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      PSG vs Arsenal LIVE SCORE: Champions League semi-final updates as Gunners look to overturn deficit and secure final spot

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      ARSENAL travel to PSG for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final TONIGHT.The Gunners arrive in Paris 1-0 down on aggregate after Ousmane Dembele’s stunning early strike at the Emirates last week was enough to earn the Parisians a narrow lead.Arsenal will be hoping to avoid more European heartbreak in the French capital, 19 years on from their 2006 Champions League final defeat to Barcelona at the Stade de France.The winner of tonight’s blockbuster tie will meet Italian giants Inter Milan in the huge Munich final on May 31.Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 1 Live stream: discovery+PSG team: To follow…Arsenal team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Another omen for the GunnersIn the last four seasons, either Real Madrid have won the Champions League, or the team who knocked them out have won it.In 2021, Chelsea knocked Madrid out, and went on to win against Man City in the final.In 2022, Real Madrid beat Liverpool to win the Champions League.In 2023, Manchester City knocked out Madrid on their way to winning the competition, again in the semi-final.In 2024, Real Madrid won the Champions League.In 2025, Arsenal knocked Real Madrid out of the Champions League…Credit: Mutsu Kawamori/AFLO/Alamy Live NewsCopy linkCopiedMust be a sign…Arsenal are looking to reach the Champions League final for only the second time in their history this evening. Their previous final was a defeat to Barcelona in 2006.Fans have been pointing out some good omens, that may help the Gunners tonight…Copy linkCopiedBend it like RiceDeclan Rice was the star of the show when Arsenal knocked Real Madrid out of the Champions League quarter-final.His two stunning free-kicks put Arsenal in a position where they were essentially already through when they faced the second leg in Madrid.Alas, that did not stop him winning the man of the match award in Madrid, helping Arsenal see off Los Blancos 5-1 on aggregate.Rice has called upon what the Gunners must do ahead of the semi-final second leg.Copy linkCopiedIn the middleControversial referee Felix Zwayer will officiate the clash between PSG and Arsenal tonight.Zawyer has a history of controversy, having previously faced a six-month ban for match fixing.The referee has also previously been blasted by Jude Bellingham, and took charge of England’s Euro semi-final against Netherlands last summer. Copy linkCopiedThe main menThe big battle in attack tonight will be between Bukayo Saka and Ousmane Dembele in Paris tonight. Dembele has scored 29 times and provided nine assists across the Champions League and Ligue 1 this season. Saka had struggled with an injury earlier in the season, but has 11 goals and 12 assists in the Premier League and Champions League this season.The pair are their sides main threats, and their gaffers will need them to step up in a big way tonight. Copy linkCopiedWhat happened last week?The Gunners have work to do as they head to Paris tonight, but are no strangers to a big European away day this season.Ousmane Dembele opened the scoring early doors, but PSG did a good enough job at limiting Arsenal throughout the rest of the match.A couple of Martinelli chances and a Mikel Merino offside goal were all Arteta’s side could muster, they would have hoped for more with home advantage behind them. The game was quite even on the face of it, with PSG playing 375 passes compared to 326 for Arsenal, but Les Parisiens did well to slow momentum and tire the home crowd. 19 clearances for PSG tells the story, they frustrated Arsenal in the final third. Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDembele injury decisionPSG coach Luis Enrique says Ousmane Dembele WILL be fit to face Arsenal in the Champions League second leg tonight.First-leg goalscorer Dembele was an injury scare after being taken off with a hamstring issue last week.Enrique said yesterday: “He’s been training with the group for two days. I have him at my disposal tomorrow.”Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedPiers Morgan en routePiers Morgan wore a “Make Arsenal Great Again” hat as he headed to Paris on the Eurostar.The 60-year-old is in the French capital for the Gunners’ Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.Mikel Arteta’s side head to France with an uphill task, having lost last week’s first leg 1-0 in London.Irrespective of their deficit, Arsenal fans including Morgan have arrived in Paris dreaming of a place in the Champions League final in Munich on May 31.Credit: X/ piersmorganCopy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 4Every year the Pope has died, an English team has won the Champions LeagueSay it quietly, but Pope Francis’ tragic passing this year could be another sign that Arsenal could win it.When Pope John Paul died in 1978, Nottingham Forest won Europe’s top prize.When Pope John Paul II passed in 2005, Liverpool remarkably won the trophy from the jaws of defeat against AC Milan, and when Pope Benedict XVI died in on New Year’s Eve 2022, Manchester City went on to win a maiden European title in May.Could this be a sign for Arsenal?Copy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 3PSG have lost all their Champions League semi-final home legsThe French side might have home advantage, but that might not be a good thing considering their history in the last four at the Parc des Princes.They were beaten 1-0 by Borussia Dortmund in last year’s semi in Paris, and 2-1 by Manchester City in 2020/21.They were defeated by AC Milan in their first semi-final appearance in 1995.It must also be remembered that the Ligue 1 champions have never lifted the Champions League trophy, either.This is new territory for them, too.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedArsenal omens part 2Strong on their travelsArteta’s side are unbeaten in all of their last four away games on the continent.Last time out, the Gunners beat Real Madrid 2-1 in a rousing comeback at the Bernabeu, and before that, they thrashed PSV 7-1 in the last 16.In the league phase, they edged past Girona and smashed Sporting Lisbon.They have never won five on the spin on the road in Europe, but Arteta will argue that that creates yet another chance for his players to make history.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFour omens for ArsenalDon’t be down in the dumps after that second leg, Arsenal fans. Here are four omens which mean the Gunners will be marching into the Munich final.New winner every time in MunichEvery time the final has been hosted in the Bavarian capital, there is always a fresh winner of Europe’s elite competition.Germany’s third largest city has played host to the final four times.The first was at the Olympiastadion, where Nottingham Forest famously defeated Malmo in 1979, and the second was in 1993, when Marseille overcame AC Milan.Roberto di Matteo’s Blues won a dramatic shootout, with Didier Drogba the hero that night.Hence, the omens also suggest that when European Cup finals are held in Munich, and English sides are involved, they win.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArsenal fans warnedArsenal have given out 2,000 scarves to their travelling supporters in Paris – despite a warning fans to be “vigilant” in the French capital amid concerns over PSG hooligans.The Gunners fans received a free red and white scarf, featuring an Arsenal club badge, when they picked up their tickets at the collection point.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedWelcome to PSG vs ArsenalHello and welcome to SunSport’s coverage of PSG vs Arsenal in a mammoth Champions League tie in Paris.The Gunners have it all to do in the French capital after trailing 1-0 from the first leg.Ousmane Dembele scored the only goal of the game inside the first four minutes as the visitors stunned Arsenal at The Emirates.The winner of tonight’s tie will face Inter Milan in the final in Munich on Saturday, May 31.Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are aiming for history to win football’s biggest prize for the first time.While PSG will also be aiming for the feat for the first time in their history.All that’s left is the build-up ahead of tonight’s HUGE clash, and we’ll be bringing you all of the updates right here on SunSport.Credit: PACopy linkCopied More

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      Inter Milan vs Barcelona LIVE RESULT: Frattesi seals Champions League semi-final classic with superb extra-time winner

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      INTER MILAN have booked their spot in the Champions League final with a 7-6 aggregate win over Barcelona after extra-time.The hosts struck first when Lautaro Martinez punished Barca’s high line with a tap-in on 21 minutes to put his side 4-3 up on aggregate.Just before half-time, Inter were awarded a penalty following a lengthy VAR check – and Hakan Calhanoglu made no mistake from the spot.Minutes after the interval, Eric Garcia’s stunning volley got Barca back in the tie before Dani Olmo’s bullet header made the thriller 5-5 on aggregate on the hour mark.The Spaniards thought they had won it through Raphinha’s late strike, but Francesco Acerbi sent the semi-final to extra time at the death.Davide Frattesi’s stunning finish put Inter back in front in the first half of the additional period – and it was enough to send the Italians to their second Champions League final in three years.Match result: Inter 4-3 Barcelona (AET) (AGG: 7-6)Inter Milan team: Sommer, Dumfries, Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni, Dimarco, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Martinez, ThuramBarcelona team: Szczesny; Martin, Inigo, Cubarsi, Eric; Pedri, De Jong, Olmo; Raphinha, Ferran, Lamine YamalCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Catch me if you canAnyone who plays against Inter Milan or the Netherlands knows straight away what Denzel Dumfries brings to the party.However, recognising the threat and stopping it are two completely different things.Dumfries shuts out the hype and speculation and just does what he knows he does best.Over the both legs, he was a constant thorn in the side of Barcelona and a huge reason the Italians now have a final to look forward to.Inzaghi may have his work cut out keeping his full-back as no doubt, the vultures will be circling.Copy linkCopiedWe could be heroes, just for one dayBeing a goalkeeper is the toughest position on the pitch, of that there is no doubt.While a striker can miss three chances and score his fourth to win the you the game, he is heralded as a match-winner.So often keepers are just overlooked, great saves met with Roy Keane saying ‘Why are you clapping? He’s just doing his job! That’s what he’s paid for!’But in this semi-final, Jann Sommer, take a bow!He singled-handedly at times protected his side’s lead and made some truly world-class saves to deny Barcelona.The Swiss keeper has surely experienced paying for anything in the city for the very last time after this victory.A more deserving man of the match there was certainly not.Credit: AFPCredit: EPACredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedAre you not entertained?In a certain film, this was yelled from the middle of a Roman colosseum.The modern equivalent in Milan is the San Siro Stadium.It was a shame that one of these teams had to exit the competition, this could have been a final to remember.One thing is for sure, whatever your allegiance, you have definitely been entertained over the course of these two legs.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedLeaders inspire greatnessIf anyone doubted the managerial abilities of Simone Inzaghi, those doubts should now be put to bed.It seems to be a match made in heaven between him and his squad, a chemistry and passion not seen since Jose Mourinho graced the touchline.He has put Italian football back on the map in Europe’s elite competition and made them a team nobody wants to face.As for this group of Inter players…….andiamo di nuovo!Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGrit is just in their DNAEmpires are built on solid foundations and a will to put themselves and their bodies on the line to do what is required.The great Italian teams show that mentality that saw their ancestors conquer and rule most of the known world.Beware the experienced, focussed, well-drilled sides from this country is something we have learned if you did not know already.They never give up and will keep coming back at you until they have no more to give.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSpanish giants dealt huge blowBarcelona and their fierce rivals Real Madrid are used to dominating this competition over the years.Carlo Ancelotti’s side were dumped out by Arsenal in the quarter-finals while Hansi Flick’s team could only make it one round further.Both Spanish outfits have been taught a lesson this season in Europe, flair and talent is not always enough to see you through.Good teams will identify ways to undo you, using whatever approach is needed to nullify your threat.The gauntlet has been laid down, it will be interesting to see how both Spanish giants react next season and just how they will look to bounceback from exits far earlier than they had planned for.Credit: EPACredit: EPACopy linkCopiedMartinez puts it on the line for his familyLautaro Martinez knew when they was a slight chance he could play in this game, the decision had already been made.The Inter Milan skipper got himself on the scoresheet to break the deadlock and it seemed somewhat fitting.Wearing the captain’s armband, he epitomises everything that this team stands for.They are brothers in arms and will go to war for their teammates and manager.That is something you just cannot teach or buy, worth its weight in gold.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedMentality monster triumph at homeThere is nothing better than having a second-leg of a European tie at home, especially when he goes through.Inter Milan showed they have a psychological edge having learnt so much from the pain of defeat in the final against Man City.Many of these players were part of that squad and know they have a chance to make up for it.Beware Simone Inzaghi and hit battle-hardened side whoever makes it to Munich from the other tie.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedDutch maestro leading waySpeaking with Amazon Prime after the match, Inter’s classy full-back gave his thoughts:Yeh crazy match again. Seven goals today, it was incredible. We fought until the end and are very proud, we are going to the final. I’m very happy, for all the team, I came back from injury so it was not easy to play two matches. He’s an amazing manager [Inzaghi] and now we go there to win. Two years ago we lost the final, this year we fight and we have an objective of course. Tomorrow we will see who we face in the final.Denzil DumfriesInter MilanCopy linkCopiedTough test for Italian giantsComing into this semi-final, Inter Milan boasted a record in this season’s competition where they had only conceded five goals.Barcelona tore that up as they scored six goals against them in just the space of two matches.However, Inter did not crumble and stuck to their task, showing that they never give up.Nobody could deny either of these sides passage through to the final but the Italians just edged it.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedNever underestimate your eldersOn paper, you wondered if this older Inter Milan side could contain the vibrant, youthful, pacey Barcelona attack.They certainly did that and made a big statement here.Experience cannot be replaced and as we saw over both games, the Italians utilised it to find a way to book their place in Munich for the final.Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedYoung guns dealt huge blowBarcelona were most peoples’ tip to win this season’s competition.However, Inter Milan found a way to beat them.You do not learn much from victories but more so defeat.Hansi Flick needs to ensure that his side remember this pain and use it as a platform for growth.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedFT: Inter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ETThe Catalan giants suffer defeat in Italy.Inter looked dead on the their feet as the visitors took the lead late on but they dug deep.First they found an equaliser before a veteran defender grabbed a winner to cap off a special night in the Champions League.What a game, in both legs!!!Copy linkCopiedInter Milan beat Barcelona 7-6 on aggregateCopy linkCopiedFT: Inter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ETThe referee blows his whistle, to the relief of the home fans.What a performance from the Italians once again.Barcelona head out of the tournament.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET120. Some of the Inter players are showing their experience now.Receiving the ball and inviting the challenge from Barca.As soon as they feel contact from behind, while shielding the ball, they go to ground to run the clock down.We are going to have two added minutes.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET118. Another chance for the visitors.Yamal uses his pace and trickery to work some space before firing off a shot from a tight angle.Sommer beats it away but Lewandowski can only head the loose ball over the crossbar to huge cheers from the Italian fans.Credit: APCopy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET116. If the score stays like this, Sommer has to be man of the match.He has made truly wonderful saves at pivotal stages of both legs.The Swiss keeper is just four minutes away from becoming a cult-hero in Milan, if he is not already.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET114. PSG and Arsenal have got a lot to live up to tomorrow.And one of those teams have to try and find a way to beat the winners of this game also.Barca are getting caught with counter attack more often as they try and throw caution to the wind in these wet conditions.Yamal runs at the hosts again and looks to place one in the far corner but Sommer makes another world-class save to tip it behind.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET112. These two teams have looked impressive in the competition up until this semi-final.Despite that, nobody ever could have predicted the two legs of football they have given us.It is everything we love about Europe’s elite tournament.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET110. Wow, Frattesi almost grabs another goal.He looks to bend one in the far corner but Szczesny makes a wonderful save to turn it around the post.The former Arsenal keeper has just kept his side in the competition with that one.Copy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET108. Not that they are a one-person team by any stretch but Inter’s success this evening so far is partly down to their handling of Yamal.They are making him have to try and do the impossible.Somehow, he toes pokes a ball across the box but Lewandowski heads it over the target from about four yards out.What a chance.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedInter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ET106. The instructions from Inzaghi will have been interesting.To they look to just defend what they have now is the question.That approach has not always worked out well for the Italian giants.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Inter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ETWe are back underway in the San Siro.What will happen next, nobody can predict.Barcelona get the second-half of extra-time started.Copy linkCopiedHT: Inter Milan 4-3 Barcelona (AGG: 7-6) ETNow all the pressure is on Barcelona.If they cannot find a goal, they are heading out.Inter Milan are within touching distance of another European final.Copy linkCopied More

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      Chelsea vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Premier League updates as Blues look to give top-5 hopes a boost with win over champs

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      CHELSEA welcome Premier League champions Liverpool for a huge clash at Stamford Bridge on Super Sunday.The Reds secured their 20th league title last weekend after Arne Slot’s men thrashed Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield.Liverpool head to the Bridge for their first match since their status as champions has been confirmed.Chelsea are in need of three huge points to give their top-five aspirations a boost as Enzo Maresca looks to lead the Blues back to the Champions League.Kick off time: 4.30pm BSTTV channel: Sky Sports Main EventLive stream: NOWChelsea team: Sanchez; Caicedo, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; JacksonLiverpool: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Elliot, Endo, Jones; Salah, Jota, GakpoCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Chelsea 1-0 Liverpool35. Liverpool win a corner as Trent puts in a hanging cross and Neto has to head it out.Wasn’t really a great corner as it’s dealt with by Chelsea easily.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool30. Few poor corners from Fernandez here as they don’t beat the first man. 31. Madueke’s quick feet are to good for Alexander-Arnold to contain. The ball makes it’s way out to Caicedo on the right hand side of the box where he puts in a loopy cross and it hits the bar!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool29. Liverpool really now starting to dominate the ball but still can’t really create any clear cut chances. Chelsea win the ball back and attempt to counter as Palmer tries to shoot but Quansah does well to catch him and block the cross for a corner. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool24. Caicedo brings down Gakpo in a position where Liverpool can loft the ball in the Chelsea box. Tsimikas puts it in and the ball drops to Van Dijk but it’s all a bit messy in the box and it is cleared. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool22. Nearly chance for Liverpool. Trent fires the ball into Cheslea’s box and it finds Salah but he just can’t control it well enough making the ball go out for a goal kick. An unexpected heavy touch from Salah.Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom SunSport’s Martin LiptonPlenty of baiting by both sets of fans, with the home supporters going back 11 years to Steven Gerrard’s  infamous, title-costing, Anfield slip and the visitors biting back with chants of “champions” as well as questioning Chelsea’s true footballing heritage.Wide open at both ends so far as well.Fernandez’ goal, coolly taken, came after Palmer and Neto unlocked the Liverpool left, but none of the midfielders in red were in the same post code as the Argentine.Further up the same flank, Gakpo has looked too hot for Caicedo.But Alisson would have been sent off for up-ending Jackson outside the box if the Senegalese striker had timed his run better.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool20. Palmer lofts the ball up forward and Jackson nearly finds himself in behind. However, Alisson was alert to the danger and collected the ball.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool16. Chelsea win the ball back instantly. Neto finds himself up 1v1 vs Tsimikas who defends well just using his body and strength. Fans ask for a pen but it is not entertained at all.Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom SunSport’s Martin LiptonBoos all round, then.As soon as the Chelsea players lined up either side of the tunnel, the chorus of disapproval started. And it kept going as the Liverpool players made their way through.Pretty shoddy, that. And might prove a massive mistake – if it provokes Liverpool to go through the gears rather than turn on cruise control.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool15. Sloppy from Trent giving the ball away straight to Palmer.Neto puts the ball in, Fernandez is first to it but the ball really just bounces of the top of his head and over the bar.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool12. Good move from Liverpool here. Liverpool seeing a bit more of the ball now.Van Dijk plays a pass through the middle to Endo who shifts it out wide to Gakpo. He puts in an alright cross but Salah just can’t reach it. Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool8. Liverpool’s first chance of the game comes through the left hand side of their attack with Gakpo. His shot is fairly tame as Sanchez clings onto to the ball. 9. Jackson’s looks like he’s before Alisson absolutely wipes him out but the flag is up for offside. Alisson was definitely relieved when he saw that flag go up.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool5. Chelsea really have their tales up now!The blues come steaming forward and Madueke pulls his shot just wide.Copy linkCopiedChelsea 1-0 Liverpool3. WHAT A START FOR THE BLUES!Some brilliant work from Palmer in the middle of the pitch who spins away from his marker and gets it out wide. Neto puts the ball in and Fernandez is there to just slot the ball home in the bottom right corner. Chelsea looking very much up for this!Copy linkCopiedChelsea 0-0 Liverpool1. And we’re off.Quick start from Liverpool as Salah gets in behind Chelsea’s defence and tries to pull it back but Sanchez claws it away.Chelsea will know a win here will be absolutely massive in the fights for top four and it will be interesting to see what kind of performance Liverpool cook up here. Copy linkCopiedMoments away from Kick OffChelsea come out first as they’re getting ready for the champion’s guard of honour. Murmurs of boo’s from the home crowd but the away end are absolutely loving every second of it!The away end bellows ‘CHAMPIONES’ ‘CHAMPIONES’ ‘CHAMPIONES’Copy linkCopiedView from Stamford BridgeFrom Martin Lipton pitchside…If Chelsea wanted encouragement in their desperate fight for a top five finish, then a glance at the Liverpool team-sheet would have been as big a boost as Newcastle dropping points at Brighton.No Mac Allister, Gravenberch or Szoboszlai in the champions’ midfield surely represents an opportunity for three crucial points.Blues boss Maresca reverts back to the team that started last week’s win over Everton. A chance for Cole Palmer to end what is now an 18-match goalless streak.But real interest pre-match on how the home fans react to the “Guard of Honour” their team are expected to give Arne Slot’s side.There is no love lost – to put in mildly – between the teams but you do think respectful applause, rather than a fusillade of jeers, might be the smart play. If a tiger is asleep, you don’t want to wake it up…Copy linkCopiedGuard of honourEnzo Maresca has said that Chelsea will give Liverpool a guard of honour today at Stamford Bridge.The Blues boss said: “It’s tradition. We have to do that, and we are going to do that.”They won the Premier League, so they deserve it.”I don’t think we need to give a guard of honour to understand how good it is to win the Premier League – we know that it’s something very nice.”Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedOur teams are here Copy linkCopiedTeam news recapThe Blues remain unchanged from their triumph over Everton last week because Robert Sanchez has recovered enough to start for Chelsea after missing the midweek victory in Djugarden.For Christopher Nkunku, who had a slight injury during training, the game does come too soon with the Frenchmen’s name heavily involved in the transfer mill. From the squad that defeated Spurs 5-1 to win the title last weekend, Liverpool has made six changes. Rotation was promised by Arne Slot, and the Reds head coach has fulfilled it.Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate are replaced at the back by Kostas Tsimikas and Jarrel Quansah. Wataru Endo, Curtis Jones, and Harvey Elliott start in place of the whole midfield.Diogo Jota replaces Luis Diaz as the last substitution as the No.9Copy linkCopiedChelsea vs Liverpool line-ups Chelsea XI: Sanchez; Caicedo, Colwill, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernandez, Lavia; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; JacksonSubs: Jorgensen, Tosin, Badiashile, Acheampong, Gusto, James, Dewsbury-Hall, Sancho, George.Liverpool XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Elliot, Endo, Jones; Salah, Jota, Gakpo.Subs: Kelleher, Konate, Diaz, Szoboszlai, Nunez, Mac Allister, Chiesa, Robertson, BradleyCopy linkCopiedHead2HeadStoried game to say the least. The Blues were edged out 2-1 in the reverse fixture at Anfield in early October. Chelsea 65-46-87 Liverpool. Copy linkCopiedSuper SundayAfternoon and welcome to the headline fixture of this weekend as Champions League-chasing Chelsea take on newly-crowned champions Liverpool at the Bridge. It’s a fixture that, regardless of where the two are, still gets the blood pumping. Even more so, with quite a bit on the line for the hosts. Champions League football has long been in short in West London. Three years out of the competition has sparked frustrations from supporters and has diminished the credibility of the fairly new ownership group. This year has prested the best opportunity, especially given the addition of a fifth place – which the Blues currently occupy. Those worries are no more for Liverpool. Concerns about how Arne Slot would adapt to English football have been answered resoundingly and are firmly back on their perch after last week’s coronation as league champions. 82 points and continuing. It’s just about showing the rest why they are champions.It’s Blue v Red. South v North. Chels v Pool. Kick-off at 4.30pmCopy linkCopied More

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      Brentford vs Man Utd LIVE SCORE: Amad strikes after Flekken error as United fight back in closing stages – updates

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      MANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 4-3 loss at Brentford – despite a late fight back.United played their youngest-ever Prem line-up with an average age of 22, with one eye on next week’s Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.Kevin Schade was on the double to put the Bees 4-1 up before goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo saw United put on a late comeback.TV/Stream: Not available to watch in the UKBrentford team: Flekken; Kayode, Collins, Van de Berg, Lewis-Potter; Norgaard; Damsgaard, Yarmolyuk; Mbeumo, Wissa, SchadeMan Utd team: Bayindir; De Ligt, Ferdricson, Shaw; Dorgu, Ugarte, Mainoo, Amass; Garnacho, Mount; ObiCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Amorim praises United kidsRuben Amorim believes the Manchester United future is bright after his young players fought bravely at Brentford.The Portuguese coach made eight changes as he named the third youngest Premier League starting line-up of all time.But despite falling to a 4-3 defeat, the United boss thought there were a lot of positives to take from the display.I liked (the performance of) the young kids. I liked how we controlled the game without many occasions to score. In the first 30 minutes, we struggle with set pieces, but we already knew we didn’t have the height to fight it. In second half we are near the draw and we suffer two goals like we did in the beginning when we suffer one and let it go. We fought, in the end we lost, but there are good things for the future.Ruben AmorimBBCCopy linkCopiedUnited’s youngsters give their allWith an average age of 22 years and 270 days, Manchester United’s starting XI against Brentford was the third-youngest any club has ever sent out for a Premier League match.Ruben Amorim’s team included 20-year-olds Tyler Fredricson, Patrick Dorgu, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, 18-year-old Harry Amass, and 17-year-old Chido Obi.Only Middlesbrough against Fulham in May 2006 (20y 181d) and Arsenal versus Portsmouth in May 2009 (22y 237d) have named younger sides.Copy linkCopiedWissa kinda magicYoane Wissa’s fabulous season looks set to go all the way to the end.The Brentford striker has scored in four consecutive Premier League appearances for the very first time following his tap in today.It takes him on to a total of 18 Premier League goals for the campaign, and level with Bryan Mbeumo.Only Ivan Toney with 20 in 2022-23 has ever netting more in a Premier League season for the Bees.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from the GtechManchester United have lost a Premier League match in which they led for the first time this season. It means all 20 clubs have now done so in the 2024-25 competition.It’s only the third time in a single Premier League campaign that every side has lost at least one game in which they were ahead following 2015-16 and 2020-21.Copy linkCopiedSunday’s Premier League ResultsWith Chelsea still to host champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge, here’s how today’s games have finished so far:Brentford 4-3 Man UtdBrighton 1-1 NewcastleWest Ham 1-1 TottenhamChelsea v Liverpool (4.30pm)Copy linkCopiedFull time – Brentford 4-3 Man UtdBrentford hold on to win by a scoreline that’s not nearly as exciting as it sounds.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-3 Man Utd90+7. Bryan Mbeumo is playing keep ball in the corner.Seconds remain now.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-3 Man Utd90+5. Amad Diallo sets up a grandstand finish!With injury time ticking down, the substitute finds room on the right to come inside and get his shot away.The shot takes a nick off Sepp van den Berg, but it shouldn’t be enough to trouble Mark Flekken, let alone beat him.Inexplicably, it sneaks through his legs, into the net, and once again Manchester United will scrap desperately in the final seconds of a contest for a 4-4 draw. Copy linkCopiedWell, well, well…Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-2 Man Utd90. There will be seven minutes of stoppage time.Is that enough for Manchester United to mount a rescue? Surely not.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-2 Man Utd89. Brilliant footwork from Chido Obi inside the area takes him away from three Brentford players and presents his best opportunity of the afternoon.However, as he drills his strike goalwards, Sepp van den Berg throws himself at the shot to block brilliantly.Great football all round.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-2 Man Utd87. There’s finally been another goal elsewhere.Having had two penalties overturned by VAR, Newcastle finally get one that sticks; Alexander Isak takes advantage and the Toon are level at Brighton.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-2 Man Utd85. In fairness to the travelling Manchester United fans, they haven’t stopped singing all afternoon. It’s been the visiting supporters making all the noise despite the score.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-2 Man Utd82. Alejandro Garnacho has another stunner to add to his collection, but I’m not sure he’s going to be too bothered about it.The Argentine tricks his way down the left before cutting inside beyond Bryan Mbeumo and playing a one-two with Christian Eriksen. Receiving the ball back on the half-turn, he moves immediately for goal and lashes one into the far corner from 25 yards.Brilliant!Copy linkCopiedConsolation!Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-1 Man Utd77. Another change is made by Ruben Amorim for what it’s worth.Victor Lindelof is on for the youngster Tyler Fredricson.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 4-1 Man Utd74. It goes from bad to worse for Manchester United, but for Brentford it gets better and better and better.It’s so simple too with the Bees cutting the visitors apart on the right.A pass is slipped in behind for the excellent Michael Kayode, who draws Altay Bayindir before squaring for Yoane Wissa to roll in.There’s a VAR check while two potential offsides are checked, but the green light is eventually given and Brentford fans can celebrate four home goals against Manchester United once again.Copy linkCopiedIt’s four!Copy linkCopiedBrentford 3-1 Man Utd72. That goal was Schade’s last involvement of the game.The two-goal winger comes off to a rapturous reception from the home fans, and it’s the welcome sight of Rico Henry that replaces him.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 3-1 Man Utd70. Three goals for Brentford, and surely all three points now!Kevin Schade has his second of the game, and it’s a second header for the German too.Manchester United switch off after thinking they have dealt with the Bees’ latest attack.But the home side win back possession, and when Bryan Mbeumo whips a cross over from the right, Schade has peeled away from his marker brilliantly to nod home.Copy linkCopiedWe need to talk about Kevin!Copy linkCopiedPremier League latest scoresThere have been no goals since half-time in the afternoon’s three top-flight fixtures:Brentford 2-1 Man UtdBrighton 1-0 NewcastleWest Ham 1-1 TottenhamCopy linkCopiedBrentford 2-1 Man Utd63. It appears Brentford are now fully prepared to concede possession and do their attacking on the counter.While Thomas Frank’s teams are good at playing without the ball, it seems odd given how threatening they were looking on the front foot.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 2-1 Man Utd60. Eriksen’s arrival has certainly given the visitors a lift. Such is his ability, the United sub is finding space that few others were managing before, and from one on the right, he goes looking for Chido Obi.The cross is teasing but has too much pace on it for the youngster to connect.Copy linkCopiedBrentford 2-1 Man Utd58. The game is opening up a bit now.Van den Berg almost pokes in a Brentford third at one end, only for United to expose their hosts seconds later at the other.Eriksen tries his luck with a shot that is blocked, and then Chido Obi is also denied by some brave defending.Copy linkCopied More

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      Martin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba LIVE RESULTS: Fight ends in controversy after 10 brutal rounds as both fighters want rematch

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      MARTIN BAKOLE returned to the ring against Efe Ajagba in Saudi Arabia.After 10 brutal rounds, the fight went to the judges’ scorecards, and the bout was declared a majority draw.One judge scored it 96-94 in favour of Ajagba, while the two others both had it 95-95.After the fight, Bakole and Ajagba both stated that they thought they had done enough to win the clash and are open to a rematch.The pair met on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs William Skull as the Mexican defends his WBA, WBC and WBO super-middleweight titles in Saudi Arabia to set up a thrilling encounter with Terence Crawford. TV/Stream: DAZN PPVCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Alvarez vs Crawford set to headline boxingThat being said, Canelo did the job many expected and has granted the world of boxing what they’ve yearned for:The pair will dispute for the undisputed super-middleweight world champion. Copy linkCopiedAlvarez vs Crawford detailsSaul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez is now set to face Terence Crawford after beating William Scull in Saudi Arabia. Alvarez and Crawford will lock horns on September 12 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.Crawford – a four-division and two-weight undisputed champion – will have to move up from light-middleweight for the fight with Canelo.Copy linkCopiedBoxing, what boxing? It hasn’t been the most penetrative weekend of boxing so far. In New York, Devin Haney’s unremarkable win was a reactive bout of nothing but timid sparring. Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull set the record for the fewest combined punches thrown in a 12-round fight with 445 for their dust-up in Riyadh. Copy linkCopiedMorning reading Includes confirmation of a blockbuster fight and return of a living legend: Copy linkCopiedBig hitter struggles to imposeThere is no doubting Martin Bakole can hurt an opponent with the power behind his punches.However, boxing has become far more tactical and he met someone this evening looking to turn off the danger he poses.If the two are to meet again, he will need to find some way to get inside more and let his hands go.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNo more bad bloodSpeaking with DAZN after the fight, Martin Bakole was quizzed about all the bad blood in the lead up to the fight and whether it was still there.Bakole said this is just what happens in the build-up and declared him and Ajagba brothers as he walks over and embraces him.There is something poetic about two warring parts of Africa putting difference to one side and recognising that they are now brothers.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBattle of Africa………take twoYou have to wonder what a rematch offers either of these fighters.Aside from the winner maybe getting a shot against Usyk or Dubois.It is unlikely that Parker will want a rematch with Bakole there seems to be nothing in it for the Kiwi to beat him again.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBakole lucky to drawOver the course of the ten rounds, most scorecards had this down as a win for Efe Ajagba.The majority draw verdict seemed to come as a surprise but you wonder whether they scored Bakola more for wanting to just throw down and fight.While it shouldn’t work that way, Ajagba was looking to use the ring and happy not to get drawn into a slugging match.Despite that, he did land punches but we did not see much in the way of trading blows.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBoogeyman playing to the crowdAfter the fight, Martin Bakole has said he wants to fight in Riyadh again and thanks the Saudi prince for inviting him to the country.He said he thinks he did enough to win the fight and would be happy to have a rematch,Bakole then asks the crowd if they would like to see a rematch instead between him and Joseph Parker, to a big cheer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedNot Efe happySpeaking with DAZN after the fight about the result:I won the fight to be honest. I won that fight. It is not up to me, the judges decide. He keep putting pressure, I had to keep going. Of course I want a rematch for sure, I want a rematch in the United States.Efe AjagbaCopy linkCopiedJudges decide on majority drawCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 10)Ajagba’s tactics seemed to have work tonight.Bakole just didn’t get inside and get big shots off often enough.By the time he started to try, Ajagba was so far ahead he could just utilise the ring and stay out of range.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 9)Both fighters start to let their hands go in this round.Bakole is landing some good shots that really rock Ajagba.He replies with some good combos which get through.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 8)Ajagba starts the round well and moves around and continues to frustrate Bakole, who tries goading him into the middle of the ring.Towards the end of the round, Bakole gets inside and starts landing big head shots that have Ajagba bloodied and drained.The bell comes at the right time for him to have a breather.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 7)Ajagba is looking to move around the ring more.He knows when he does that, Bakole cannot get a grip of the fight.Bakole occasionally manages to get inside and land some good punches but is also getting caught by counters.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 6)Bakole starts the round coming inside and getting punches off.The problem he is doing this too little and is well down on the card as a result.Not that it will bother Bakole, his plan was always to win this by stoppage and nothing has changed there.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 5)Much better round for Ajagba there.He started putting some distance between the pair and then coming inside and retreating.Ajagba catches Bakole with some real big hits and bosses the round.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 4)What a great round that was for Bakole.He started to drive forward and get inside and just start spraying big hits all over Ajagba.Towards the end of the round it looks like they are having their effect and it is grinding down Ajagba.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 3)Bakole is not getting inside to let his hands go.Ajagba is able to come over the top with big right hands and twice rocks his opponent.After that Parker loss you woder if Bakole can take these hits.Towards the end of the round Bakole gets inside and lands a good combination of hard hits with his opponent on the ropes and unable to get away.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 2)Bakole takes on his instructons from his corner.He starts to look to work Ajagba with body shots.Ajagba is looking to come over the top with counters.He needs to be wary that Bakole will be willing to lose rounds just to try and set up that big knockout punch.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe Ajagba (Round 1)Ajagba looks to utilise the jab early.Bakole does not have much of a defence and they are able to get through to the head.It is Ajagba who seems to be on the front-foot more and comes inside and fires off a good combination of punches.He retreats and looks to work the body with jabs.Copy linkCopiedMartin Bakole vs Efe AjagbaTwo big entrances from both fighters.Bakole is followed in by a hype man singing to get started.Ajagba is wearing a t-shirt saying ‘RIP George Foreman’ along with vary images of different points of the heavyweight’s career.Copy linkCopiedAjagba saying all the right thingsSpeaking to Sky Sports, Efe Ajagba seems to be expecting a victory here tonight and has started to think about next moves:I’m not overstepping. I’m just focused on Martin Bakole first. After that, when I get the victory, that’s when I’m going to step up to fight who I want to fight next. Whether it’s Usyk or Dubois.Efe AjagbaCopy linkCopiedEfe ready to cause an upsetFor Ajagba, this is a chance to finally validate his potential. After being heralded as a future titleholder early in his career, the Nigerian puncher suffered a setback in 2021, losing a clear decision to the slick Frank Sanchez. Since then, Ajagba has put together five straight wins, most recently edging Guido Vianello by split decision.Still, questions remain. Has Ajagba evolved since the Sanchez loss, or has he simply been matched wisely? Bakole, even in his recent defeat, may prove to be the acid test.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBakole looking to bounce backThe Congolese contender was stopped brutally in round two by Joseph Parker in February—a fight he took on just 48 hours’ notice. Despite the setback, Bakole retains his promoter’s confidence. He knew what defeat to Parker would mean to his career but he is hoping with an impressive victory tonight, he can wipe that fight from the boxing world’s memory.Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth LIVE RESULT: Cherries fight back as Gunners STUNNED before crucial PSG clash – updates

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      BOURNEMOUTH fought back from a goal down to stun Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates.The Gunners preparations for the huge Champions League second leg against PSG on Wednesday were hit by an almighty blow after Evanilson and Dean Huijsen scored in quick succession.Mikel Arteta picked a strong team for the match with Thomas Partey returning after his suspension in the first leg against PSG last week.Kick off time: 5.30pm BSTTV channel/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event and Premier LeagueArsenal starting line-up: Raya; White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Martinelli, TrossardBournemouth starting line-up: Arrizabalaga; Araujo, Huijsen, Zabarnyi, Kerkez; Cook, Adams, Kluivert; Tavernier, Ouattara. EvanilsonCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Cooking Rice only bright spotThere wasn’t much for Arsenal fans to celebrate at the Emirates – but the performance of Declan Rice was a joy.On his 100th appearance for the club, his opener was his 15th goal for Gunners.It’s as many goals as he managed in 245 games for West Ham.Copy linkCopiedArteta: We must use our rageA furious Mikel Arteta insists his side must take all of their negative emotions and use them for good in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.Speaking after his side gave up a one-goal lead to Bournemouth, the Arsenal boss pulled no punches.We didn’t create the right momentum. We certainly created a lot of anger, frustration, rage, disappointment. Now we have to use that for good on Wednesday. That is what we have to do.Mikel ArtetaSky SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from the EmiratesArsenal have now dropped 21 points from winning positions in the Premier League this season – it is their joint-most ever in a single campaign (also 21 in 2019-20).Copy linkCopiedFull time – Arsenal 1-2 BournemouthAdvantage Cherries in the race for the Conference League!Bournemouth have won away at Arsenal for the first time in their history, completing an impressive double over the Champions League semi-finalists.The Gunners were hoisted by their own petard, losing to two set-pieces in second half, first when Dean Huijsen headed in from Antoine Semenyo’s long throw, and then when Evanilson bundled a corner in at the far post.Mikel Arteta has a lot of work to do to pick his players up for a huge night in Paris on Wednesday.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90+4. There’s a lot of head shaking going on as Arsenal move nowhere in their latest attack.Bournemouth are cruising towards an important, historic win that will leave them with a real chance of European football – and it’s thoroughly deserved.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90+2. A modicum of excitement engulfs the Emirates as a free-kick is awarded to Arsenal 25 yards from goal.It soon evaporates when Odegaardly meekly hits it into the wall.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth90. Six minutes of additional time are signalled but even those Arsenal fans who have remained in their seats aren’t enthused by the news.Just blow the whistle and let these poor people get home for Britain’s Got Talent.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth87. This has been a nothing performance from Arsenal.No wonder Declan Rice has his head in his hands on the bench.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth84. Don’t worry, Arsenal fans, the calvary are coming.Perhaps Raheem Sterling, Oleksandr Zinchenko and (the admittedly very good) Ethan Nwaneri can save the day. Yeah, I couldn’t type it with a straight face.Ben White, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are the ones to make way.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth82. If you were expecting Arsenal to respond in fighting fashion after falling behind, you were severely mistaken.If anything, Bournemouth look as though they could score again.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth79. This is the first time that Bournemouth have scored two goals from set pieces (excluding penalties) in a Premier League away game since January 2018.Arsenal are having a taste of their own medicine.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-2 Bournemouth75. Paris Saint-Germain will be shaking in their boots at this latest bout of pathetic defending.Alex Scott swings a corner over from the left for Marcus Tavernier to flick on across goal from the near post.At the back stick, Martin Odegaard is more concerned with wrestling Evanilson than dealing with the imminent danger of the football, and falls over as the Brazilian bundles beyond some equally shambolic goalkeeping from David Raya.There’s a VAR check for both handball and offside, but not wanting to upset the Cherries after last week’s mess, the officials decide that the footage is inconclusive in deciding whether Evanilson used his elbow to score.Bournemouth deservedly lead at the Emirates, and move into pole position in the race for the Conference League.Copy linkCopiedTurnaround!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth74. Never make a substitution at a corner, right?Well, both Arsenal and Bournemouth have done just that.Admittedly, the one for the Cherries is forced with Dango Ouattara in some discomfort; he’s replaced by David Brooks.The hosts, though, have made the decision to swap Declan Rice with Mikel Merino while having a set-piece to defend.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth70. Mikel Arteta is yet to make a change, and now Bournemouth are the team on top.The equaliser has shook Arsenal, and they’re being dragged all over the place by Marcus Tavernier, Alex Scott and co.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-1 Bournemouth67. Bournemouth have their equaliser!In the end, it didn’t take much finesse or even football, just one long throw launched into the box by substitute Antoine Semenyo.Young defender Dean Huijsen rose to meet it, and none of the five Arsenal players in his vicinity bothered to join him.One cleverly steered header later and the ball is beyond David Raya, and the travelling fans behind that goal are going absolutely beserk.All square!Copy linkCopiedThere it is!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth63. Andoni Iraola is preparing changes which is the perfect time for commentator Rob Hawthorne to remind us that Bournemouth have had 12 goals scored by substitutes this season.Only Fulham with 15 have scored more.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth61. “Bournemouth can smell an equaliser,” is Alan Smith’s latest worry.Mind you, he says it just as Kluivert turns and spoons one over from 25 yards.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth59. Evanilson is booked for a textbook foul that halts Arsenal’s progress in the middle of the pitch.No danger of a red card for the Brazilian on this occasion. Not even VAR can get this wrong.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth56. Saka is starting to influence the game a lot more now.Moving over to the left, he’s quick to skip inside Araujo and curl a shot towards the top corner. There’s not enough bend though, and it drifts agonisingly wide.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth54. “Arsenal need a second goal here,” worries Alan Smith.The big man’s got a point. This is a game that reeks of an 82nd minute equaliser from substitute Antoine Semenyo.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth52. Back down the other end, and Saka – unusually quiet tonight – has a shot blocked behind for a corner.Let’s hope the Arsenal forward is saving himself for the Parc des Princes.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Bournemouth49. It didn’t take long for Kerkez to threaten again.The rampaging left-back pushes down the flank and whips in a teasing delivery that is just too far ahead of Tavernier.It’s a reminder of the threat Bournemouth carry.Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Arsenal 1-0 Bournemouth46. The action restarts at the Emirates, where Arsenal are in frnot. It’s a slender lead, but a lead nonetheless.The object for the Gunners in the second half is to see this game through without picking up any injuries while Paris awaits. Standing in their way, Bournemouth have very different ideas.Copy linkCopied More