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ON THE SPOT: Who does Pastore pick as his desert island teammate?

The practice was adopted in the summer after the English top-flight's return from its coronavirus break, and has continued to present day

Tottenham star Harry Kane has called on Premier League players to continue taking a knee before matches. 

The custom, which stems from former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the U.S. national anthem, was adopted worldwide this summer in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.

After protests over George Floyd's death in police custody, the Premier League began each match with every player and official kneeling on the pitch – a practice that has continued in the 2020-21 season.

While some have said that continuing to kneel has diluted the message, Kane believes it is still important for him and his fellow players to kneel prior to every game.

“I think we are a huge platform to share our voices across the world, to be honest," Kane told Nihal Arthanayake on BBC Radio 5 Live. "Obviously we have done a lot with Black Lives Matter and taking the knee before games. I hear people talking about taking the knee and whether we should still be doing it, and for me I think we should.

“What people don’t realise sometimes is we are watched by millions of people around the world, and of course for the person who watches the Premier League every week, they see the same thing every week, but I think if you look round the world, you see children watching the game for the first time, seeing us all take a knee and asking their parents asking why we take the knee.

"I think it’s a great chance for people to explain why and get their point across. I think education is the biggest thing we can do - adults can teach generations what it means, and what it means to be together and help each other, no matter what your race.”

Kane has also lauded the work done by his England team-mates Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling, who have both been vocal in the fight against racism and childhood hunger.

“I think what Marcus and Raheem have done has been incredible and you see a lot of the work players do for communities and charities, I know first-hand players are doing an awful lot," Kane said.

"I don’t like it when people say we should just play football and stick to kicking a ball, because we are a huge platform. We come across to millions round the world. Our voices should be heard.” 

Original author: Goal

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Sam Allardyce needs luck to keep Leeds United in the Premier League

Atleti were held by the under-strength European champions, leaving their manager aware exactly where his side must improve

Diego Simeone acknowledged a failure to take their chances cost Atletico Madrid, his side punished late on in a  1-1 draw with Bayern Munich

Atletico went into Tuesday's Champions League clash with holders Bayern knowing that victory would be enough to secure second place in Group A. 

Joao Felix gave Atletico the lead with his eighth goal in 14 appearances this term, but the hosts could not score from any of their other 12 attempts, of which only three were on target. 

A weakened Bayern, without regulars such as Robert Lewandowski and Manuel Neuer, grew as the game wore on, snatching a draw through Thomas Muller's 86th-minute penalty. 

It means Atletico now need to avoid defeat at Salzburg in their final group game next week to qualify for the knockout stages, and Simeone is fully aware where his side must improve. 

"We are not being forceful enough in attack, but we do create chances," Simeone told Movistar Plus. "Now we have a very tough game against Salzburg. 

"A small scoreline means you can always be caught. But until the penalty, Bayern had no chances to score." 

Atletico were again without Luis Suarez because of coronavirus, while fellow striker Diego Costa has endured another injury plagued campaign.

Joao Felix impressed against Bayern, managing more shots (three) and shots on target (two) than anyone else on the pitch, as well as playing a joint-high two key passes. 

The Portugal international's goal came from a Marcos Llorente assist, and Simeone can see signs of improvement in the attacking third, even if Atleti have failed to score more than once in any of their past four games. 

"It would not be fair to speak about the attacking players. Luis is missing through coronavirus, Diego is in his recovery phase and will be out for longer," he said. 

"The work we are doing is good, but we have to work harder on finishing situations. We are working on that in training. 

"The players are working hard and are in good shape. It is not easy having this forcefulness that will solve our issues. In these situations we will only improve. 

"I liked the move for the goal... [Yannick] Carrasco's pass to Llorente. We are already showing signs of more tranquility." 

Joao Felix agreed with head coach Simeone that chances created ultimately count for little unless they are converted. 

"We had more opportunities than them but did not take them," he said. "These things can happen in football. 

"We can have many opportunities but if we do not score them, they are worthless. They only had a few and one of them was enough to earn a draw." 

Bayern did not register an attempt on target in the first half - the first time that has happened in a Champions League group game since October 2009.  

But it was roles reversed after the restart as Atletico failed to test stand-in Bayern keeper Alexander Nubel - one of nine players brought into the visitors' starting line-up. 

"The first half was very good for us," Simeone added. "It was a beautiful goal, and we were close to a second but it just did not come. 

"Bayern are a strong side and won a penalty. Next week's game [with Salzburg] will now clearly be another final."

Benin Republic edge closer to Afcon qualification after defeating Lesotho

The attacker made another strong case for more frequent Premier League starts in Manchester City's 0-0 draw against Porto

Pep Guardiola lavished praise on Phil Foden's performance in Manchester City's 0-0 Champions League draw at Porto.

City were frustrated by their dogged hosts at Estadio do Dragao, with Gabriel Jesus having a goal ruled out for a VAR offside against Joao Cancelo 10 minutes from time.

Nevertheless, the stalemate saw the Premier League side secure top spot in Group C with a game to spare.

Foden has started four successive Champions League matches, although the England midfielder has been a substitute for City's past five domestic outings.

Speaking to BT Sport, Guardiola seemed to acknowledge the growing clamour for the 20-year-old to become a permanent fixture in his first XI, irrespective of the opponents or competition.

"What a player, what a player," he said when asked about Foden's display.

"His intensity and he always creates things. He was so good, I'm delighted with his performance."

Foden made two key passes and his four completed crosses accounted for half of City's total as they chipped away at a resolute Porto backline.

He won six out of eight duels and drew three fouls – more than any other City player during a combative contest – although none of his team-mates lost possession more often than Foden (23 times).

After the 5-0 weekend win over Burnley, Guardiola told his players they would be making a "mistake" if they felt their absence from his line-ups was solely down to rotation.

However, he told a post-match news conference that he was keen for a number of his squad to find their "rhythm" after being in and out of the side.

"I think a few players need rhythm, like Bernardo [Silva], Oleks [Zinchenko], Fernandinho and Joao," he said.

"I wanted to give them minutes for the rhythm. I have to know that I can trust the players. Now it is time to focus on the Premier League."

Guardiola added: "We played with huge personality, with courage. It's not easy with eight [defensive] players in the box. They are so strong with the full-backs, they are so fast.

"Even with that, we created enough chances to win. This is the most important thing."

City's 18 shots were the most they have ever had in a Champions League game without finding the net.

Transfer news and rumours LIVE: Mustafi and Rudiger on Barca shortlist

Goal takes a look at the biggest transfer news and rumours from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and around the world
Original author: Goal

Conte heralds Inter 'spirit' as they keep Champions League hopes alive with win at Borussia Monchengladbach

The willingness of his players to take responsibility was crucial in the victory over the Bundesliga side, according to the Italian manager

Antonio Conte hailed Inter's "spirit" as they kept alive their chances of progressing in the Champions League with a pulsating 3-2 win away at Borussia Monchengladbach.  

Inter put aside the disappointment of failing to win any of their first four Group B matches to edge past Gladbach, who could have sealed their own qualification for the knockout stages with a win on home turf.  

Matteo Darmian put the Serie A side ahead with his first goal for the club before Alassane Plea pulled the hosts level on the stroke of half-time.  

Lukaku then scored two fine goals to put Inter 3-1 up and despite Plea's second 15 minutes from time, Inter held on to ensure they go into the final round of fixtures next week with something to play for.  

They will need to beat Shakhtar Donetsk and hope Gladbach do them a favour against Real Madrid, who lost for a second time this season to the Ukrainian side in the early kick-off on Tuesday.  

Inter were good value for the win too, carving out 15 shots on goal to Gladbach's 10, and Conte revealed a supportive team talk at half-time was crucial to their success.

"Gladbach are in an excellent period of form, in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League," Conte told Sky Sport Italia . "If you are not a team, tactically, physically, in terms of character, you don't come here and win. 

"We absolutely deserved to win and could've frankly avoided suffering quite so much towards the end. We beat the group leaders and we are alive. I thank the lads; they had the right spirit. When they have this desire to help each other out and be a real team, we cause problems for the opposition. 

"What I ask of the lads is to increase their level of responsibility, each and every one, because if they all do that, then we can become an ambitious side. 

"Performances like this prove the team is there, we are united, we're all working in the same direction and want to give our fans joy. 

"Conceding that equaliser on the stroke of half-time against the run of play could've killed us. We analysed some situations during the break, as we made some mistakes towards half-time, but these lads needed my support at that moment.  

"I told them we had to keep going and rediscover the quality we had early in the game and that we'd be rewarded with the victory. I am glad that I was proved right, because when a coach talks and those things don't happen, you risk losing their trust!" 

Lukaku's double means he has now scored 12 goals in European competitions over the past two seasons, a tally only bettered by Robert Lewandowski and Erling Haaland.  

The Belgian, who scored with his only attempts on target, joined Inter in a big-money move from Manchester United in August 2019 and says his time in Italy has been the most enjoyable of his career so far. 

"I am one of the 25 players," he said. "There are far more experienced players here than me. I want to help the team to win, that's what I do in every training session and every match. I want to help Inter. I am so happy to be here with these lads. I've had the best year-and-a-half of my career at Inter, so I thank the coach, his staff and my team-mates." 

Inter take on Bologna in Serie A this weekend before their crunch clash with Shakhtar in Europe.

Nigeria wonderkid Adeyemi breaks Salzburg Champions League record

Nigerian wonderkid Karim Adeyemi broke a Champions League record for Red Bull Salzburg on Tuesday, when he netted in their 3-1 victory at Lokomotiv Moscow.

Adeyemi added Salzburg’s third in the 81st minute away at the RZD Arena, finally killing off the contest after Anton Miranchuk had pulled one back for Lokomotiv two minutes beforehand following a first-half double from the visitors’ Mergim Berisha.

In finding the net, Adeyemi becomes—at the age of 18 years and 318 days—the youngest player ever to score in the Champions League for RB Salzburg.

His goal capped off an excellent outing for the Austrian champions, as they finally ended a run of five UCL games without a victory—losing four and drawing one match during that spell.

Surprisingly, their goalscoring has been impressive even if they haven’t been able to pick up victories, with only Bayern Munich scoring more goals per game across the last two UCL campaigns out of the clubs to feature in both editions of the tournament.

While the impressive Berisha will hog the headlines, the goal was a landmark moment for Adeyemi who is continuing to rebuild his career after leaving Bayern Munich amidst a cloud after disciplinary issues overshadowed his immense potential.

He was an Austrian champion with the club last season, and has one league goal in six T-Mobile Bundesliga outings so far this season.

The youngster, who was born in Munich, has represented Germany up to U-17 level, but is yet to progress further up the national-team ranks.

He’s eligible for Nigeria through his father, but could also turn out for Romania—currently ranked 37th in the world—via his mother.

Despite the victory—ending a run of three consecutive UCL defeats—Salzburg are up against it as they look to qualify for the knockout stages after being drawn into Group A alongside Bayern and Atletico Madrid.

The two heavyweights are currently in place to reach the Last 16—on 13 and six points respectively—but Salzburg could leapfrop Atleti into second if they defeat them in Austria in a winner-takes-all showdown in gameweek six on December 9.

Original author: Ed Dove

'He changed the game' - Passion of Jesus makes Fernandinho a believer in Manchester City striker's quality

The Brazilian forward thought he had snatched a win for the Citizens at Porto before VAR intervened, but he still impressed his team-mate

Fernandinho believes Gabriel Jesus' pace and passion can give Manchester City's attack the cutting edge they have lacked this season.

Jesus came off the bench during the second half of City's 0-0 draw at Porto on Tuesday, a result that sealed top spot in Champions League Group C.

It was a frustrating outing in front of goal for Pep Guardiola's side, something that has become familiar during a stuttering start that sees them lying 11th in a compressed Premier League table, and City's 18 attempts were their most without scoring in a Champions League match.

Jesus looked to have ended their frustration 10 minutes from time, beating inspired Porto goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin at the second attempt before a VAR review showed Joao Cancelo was offside before delivering the cross to set him up.

The Brazil striker has three goals from seven appearances in an injury-interrupted campaign and his compatriot Fernandinho believes Jesus gives another dimension to a City forward line that is still without Sergio Aguero after his latest knee setback.

"A striker always should be alert in the box and he showed his quality," the veteran midfielder told BT Sport.  "Unfortunately, it was offside but I'm glad for him. He changed the game with his passion and his pace.

"It was a good point for us and we’re glad to finish top of the group."

Fernandinho made his first start since suffering an injury during the initial encounter with Porto in Manchester six weeks ago.

He was in the thick of a frequently combative affair - contesting 10 duels, making three interceptions and committing five fouls, while also winning a pair of free-kicks.

"It's important to get one point away from home. Especially against a tough team like they are," the 35-year-old said. "They fought the whole game to get the point and go through as well.

"I think we tried to win the game since the beginning. We tried to play our game since the first minute."

City have qualified for the Champions League knock-outs in first place with a game to spare, making it to the round of 16 for the eighth year in a row.

Champions League 2020-21 knockouts: What does each team need to qualify for last 16?

With everything still left to play for, here's what all the teams need during the final rounds of the group stage to progress to the knockout phases

While the likes of Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Barcelona, LIverpool and Juventus have already confirmed their spots in the round of 16 of the 2020-21 Champions League, a handful will not learn their fate until the final matchday.

Goal has rounded up what results each team needs to safely progress into the highly-anticipated knockout stages of the flagship European club competition.

Group A

Bayern Munich have already qualified for the round of 16 as winners of Group A.

Atletico Madrid and RB Salzburg are both vying for second place and will meet each other in matchday six.

Salzburg need to defeat Atletico to make it to the knockout phases, while Atletico need to just avoid defeat to make it through.

Lokomotiv Moscow are unable to qualify for the last 16, but still have a chance of qualifying for Europa League should they beat Bayern and Salzburg fail to win.

Group B

Group B will go right down to the wire. Borussia Monchengladbach must defeat or draw with Real Madrid on the final day to progress to the knockout phases, though they have already been assured a place in the Europa League.

If they lose to Real Madrid, they can only qualify for the round of 16 only if Inter draw with Shakhtar.

Shakhtar will progress to the knockouts if they win against Inter on the final matchday, while a draw will also be enough - but only if Real Madrid fail to beat Gladbach. A defeat will not see them through.

Real Madrid need only a home victory to qualify to the knockouts, while a draw will suffice should Inter defeat Shakhtar. If they lose, they will drop to the Europa League if Inter don't beat Shakhtar.

Inter need to win against Shakhtar and rely on a win or loss between Borussia Monchengladbach and Real Madrid. A draw between the two would not be enough due to the head-to-head.

Group C

Manchester City have advanced to the knockout phases as winners of Group C, with Porto finishing in second.

Olympiakos and Marseille will both battle for third place to earn a spot in the Europa League. Marseille, who face Man City, must better Olympiakos' result against Porto to keep their hopes of remaining in the competition alive.

Group D

Liverpool finished top of their group with their win over Ajax in matchday five.

Midtjylland are to finish fourth and unable to qualify for Europa League, while the fates of both Ajax and Atalanta cannot be decided until the end of matchday six.

Ajax must win against Atalanta, while a win or draw is enough for Atalanta.

Group E

Both Chelsea and Sevilla have qualified for the round of 16.

Their penultimate group stage game is against each other, so whichever side wins both their remaining matches will finish in first place.

Both Krasnodar and Rennes are unable to progress to the round of 16, and as they face off against one another on December 2, whoever wins will qualify for the Europa League.

Group F 

Dortmund will progress to the knockouts should they win or draw against Lazio, or if Club Brugge fail to beat Zenit.

Lazio will progress should they defeat Dortmund, or if Zenit win against Brugge - or if both games end in a tie.

If both games end in a tie, Brugge cannot finish in the top two and will end up in the Europa League.

Zenit can only qualify for the Europa League if they win against Brugge on December 2.

Group G 

Barcelona and Juventus have both progressed to the knockout stages.

Barcelona will finish in first place if they win against Ferencvaros and Juve don't win against Dynamo. They can also finish in first if they draw and Juventus lose, though their fates can also be decided on the final matchday when they face off against each other.

Dynamo and Ferencvaros are unable to reach the round of 16, while third place will not be decided until the final matchday.

Group H

Manchester United will progress to the last 16 with just a point against PSG. The Red Devils will finish first if they win against PSG and Leipzig do not win - a draw will be enough for the Old Trafford side should Leipzig lose.

Istanbul Basaksehir can only reach the round of 16 if they beat Leipzig. They will finish fourth should they lose and if PSG draw or win against Man Utd - or if Basaksehir draw and PSG defeat Man Utd.

PSG and Leipzig's fates will only be decided on the final matchday. If they both finish with the same number of points, PSG will progress due to the away goals in the head-to-head.

Original author: Goal

Klopp hails Liverpool win over Ajax on 'one of the most exceptional Champions League nights we've had'

The Reds progressed to the last 16 behind a winning goal that saw two teenagers combine
Original author: Goal

'Sleep and it can get complicated' - Guardiola happy to forget about Champions League while European giants struggle

Manchester City have reached the last-16 for an eighth successive season as old rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid battle for qualification

Pep Guardiola said no team can take qualification for the Champions League knockout stages for granted after Manchester City secured a seeded place for the last-16.

City’s 0-0 draw at Porto means his side will top Group C with a game to spare after reaching the knockout draw for an eighth successive season, but with European giants Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Inter and last year’s semi-finalists RB Leipzig all facing an early exit, Guardiola says qualification is not as easy as people expect.

“This year especially in the Champions League it was tricky because if you lose or draw you have to go to the last game and there is always risk with the COVID situation,” he said.

“I know it's a disaster if we were not able to do it. Nowadays, [people think it is] so easy but we know in the other groups, some important incredible teams are finding it difficult to qualify.

“We know how important the groups are and how difficult it is to qualify so this competition is really difficult - if you sleep for one or two games everything is going to be complicated. Today is a day to be to be happy and now it's time to forget until February the Champions League and focus on the Premier League.”

City have one final group game against Marseille next Wednesday, which comes just three days before the Manchester Derby.

With nothing riding on the fixture, it gives Guardiola the opportunity to rest players for the trip to Old Trafford, but with close to a full squad fully fit, he says he will pick a strong side to beat the Ligue 1 side, who won their first game in 13 attempts against Olympiacos on Tuesday.

“All the players deserve to play,” he said. “We’re going to make a selection, it depends if they're tired, it depends on their behaviour on the pitch, in training sessions, in the locker room, in many situations. We will see.

“It is not just to prepare absolutely for United and Old Trafford, because against Marseille we're going to play to win. This is the way big teams create the mentality. It doesn't matter what competition you play, you have to try to do it and we did really well all game.”

City have kept four clean sheets in their last four Champions League and were unfortunate not to win in Portugal with Gabriel Jesus having a goal ruled out by VAR and Raheem Sterling, Ruben Dias and Eric Garcia all going close.

Goals have been City’s biggest problem this season, but despite another blank, the City boss was happy with how his side performed.

“We played exceptionally well,” Guardiola added. “Unfortunately we could not score but we came here to finish first. We are happy, I guess Porto (who also qualified) are as well.

“We played with huge personality, courage to go there and keep the ball. I know it is not easy. They played with eight players in the box, they were so strong, the full-backs are so strong but we were patient and we attacked and we created enough chances to win. This is the most important thing.”

Original author: Jonathan Smith

Barkhuizen on target as Preston North End beat AFC Bournemouth in five-goal thriller

The South African descent helped the Lilywhites stun the hosts at the Vitality Stadium

Tom Barkhuizen scored the opening goal as Preston North End pipped AFC Bournemouth to a 3-2 defeat in a Championship match.

The 27-year-old who scored the Lilywhites' only goal in their 4-1 loss against Watford on Saturday, continued from where he stopped at VIcarage Road with another effort on Tuesday.

Barkhuizen broke the deadlock at the Vitality Stadium in the 16th minute, after benefiting from Daniel Johnson's assist.

The goal was the only difference that separated both teams in the first 45 minutes and it stretched the 27-year-old's tally to three goals after 14 games in the Championship this term.

Late goals from Junior Stanislas and Sam Surridge were not enough to complete Bournemouth fight-back as Scott Sinclair and Patrick Bauer sealed Preston's fourth Championship win on the road this term.

Preston North End climbed to 14th in the league table after gathering 19 points after 15 matches. Barkhuizen and Alex Neil's men will hope to build on the result when they host Wycombe Wanderers at Deepdale on Saturday.

Earlier this year, Barkhuizen was handed his maiden invitation to South Africa national team for their 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sao Tome and Principe in March, which was later moved to November.

The 27-year-old was expected to join Molefi Ntseki's team as a tourist because he is yet to apply for South African citizenship.

A few months ago, Ntseki said; “We sent his agent an email to invite him to be part of this camp, to get a tourist visa so we can work with him at close range … for him to understand South African players and South Africa as a whole, so that when he goes back he can say he is happy and he wants to play in South Africa.

“Sometimes you want to bring someone here and get all the documents, but when he comes he decides here is not the place for him, so we decided to bring him to be part of the camp, and have training sessions with us.”

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

USWNT lawsuit: Players reach agreement with U.S. Soccer over unequal working conditions

The settlement will allow the team to pursue an appeal of the equal pay portion of their lawsuit against the federation

The U.S. women's national team and U.S. Soccer have reached an agreement to settle one part of their long-running lawsuit over gender discrimination.

The settlement is regarding what the USWNT alleged were unequal working conditions between them and the U.S. men's national team.

According to the legal filing: "The crux of that agreement is that USSF will implement revised policies on four working conditions: charter flights, venue selection, professional support, and hotel accommodations."

The agreement over working conditions clears the way for the USWNT to appeal a judge's decision in May, which ruled in U.S. Soccer's favor over the USWNT's pay discrimination claim.

“We are pleased that the USWNT Players have fought for – and achieved – long overdue equal working conditions,” said USWNT spokeswoman Molly Levinson in a statement. “We now intend to file our appeal to the court’s decision which does not account for the central fact in this case that women players have been paid at lesser rates than men who do the same job.

“We remain as committed as ever to our work to achieve the equal pay that we legally deserve. Our focus is on the future and ensuring we leave the game a better place for the next generation of women who will play for this team and this country.”

In a statement, U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone hailed the agreement as an important step forward as the two sides look to repair a long-damaged relationship.

“This is an important and welcomed moment for U.S. Soccer and the women’s national team players," Parlow Cone said.

"Earlier this year, I stepped into the role as President, and shortly after we hired Will Wilson as our new CEO. We, and the rest of the leadership team at U.S. Soccer, are focused on taking a new approach at the Federation in handling all matters.

“I believe our approach helped us reach this agreement and demonstrates the commitment of U.S. Soccer’s new leadership to find a new way forward with the USWNT. This settlement is good news for everyone and I believe will serve as a springboard for continued progress.

“As a former USWNT player, I can promise you that I am committed to equality between the USWNT and USMNT. My goal is, and has always been, to come to a resolution on all equal pay matters and inspire a new era of collaboration, partnership and trust between the USWNT and the Federation."

Original author: Seth Vertelney

Liverpool teenagers Jones and Williams combine to make Champions League history

The pair produced the only goal of the game as the Reds sealed their place in the next round of the competition with victory over Ajax at Anfield

Marseille end record-breaking Champions League losing streak with win over Olympiacos

Dimitri Payet scored twice from the spot against the Greek outfit, ensuring his side's losing run in the European competition ended at 13

Marseille have finally ended their 13-match losing run in the Champions League after defeating Olympiacos 2-1 on Tuesday. 

Andre Villas-Boas' side went down 2-0 at home against Porto last week, which saw them break the record they had previously shared with Anderlecht.

However, the Ligue 1 outfit ensured they would not add to that mark against the Greek outfit, as Dimitri Payet scored twice from the penalty spot in the second half to cancel out Mady Camara's first-half opener. 

It was the first win in the competition for Marseille since they defeated Inter 1-0 in February 2012.

The goals were a relief for Payet personally, as he finally scored for the first time in the Champions League on his 20th appearance - 10 with Lille, 10 with Marseille.

Payet's goals were also Marseille's first of the campaign after they were shut out four times in a row in Group C. 

With the win, the French outfit also ensured they would not set the mark for the longest losing streak in all of Champions League or European Cup history, with Luxembourg side Jeunesse Esch having lost 16 straight games between 1973 and 1987.

While Marseille have been eliminated from contention for the knockout phase this season, Tuesday's win means they still hold out hope of reaching the Europa League

Marseille are still in fourth place in Group C but are level on points with Olympiacos, with both sides currently on three.

Villas-Boas' side will face Manchester City on the group's final matchday and would need to better Olympiacos' result against Porto should they wish to reach the Europa League last 32.

Before that match, Marseille will face Nimes on Friday in Ligue 1 as they aim to qualify again for the Champions League next season. 

Marseille are currently in sixth place in Ligue 1 but are only four points behind leaders PSG and hold two games in hand over Thomas Tuchel's men. 

Villas-Boas humorously aimed to find the bright side of his side's European predicament earlier this month. 

"In order to be sh*t in the Champions League, you have to at least qualify for the Champions League," the Portuguese coach said. "We did it and we are being sh*t."

Original author: Goal

Perth Glory close out Asian Champions League campaign looking for win against FC Tokyo

After getting their first ever point in the competition, the Australian side will be hoping to go one better in their final game

Perth Glory will be keen to add to their first ever Asian Champions League point with a victory in their final group game against FC Tokyo on Thursday evening.

Richard Garcia's side created history with the 3-3 draw against Shanghai Shenhua on Tuesday, and will be hoping to go one better against their J-League opposition.

While the A-League side will just be playing for pride, FC Tokyo need a result to give themselves a chance to qualify for the knockout stage, as they sit even on points with Shanghai Shenhua - who take on already-qualified group leaders Ulsan Hyundai.

Glory have rotated their side consistently throughout the competition and expect Garcia to again tinker with his starting line-up as he attempts to give his squad players exposure to Asian competition.

Glory have performed solidly in most of their matches but have suffered from concentration issues that has seen them ship multiple goals in quick succession.

In both matches against Ulsan, Glory were sunk by late goals from Kim In-Sung and Junior Negrao, while they led 2-0 against Shanghai before going behind and being forced to salvage a late 3-3 draw.

Glory can be expected to use their talismanic duo Diego Castro and Bruno Fornaroli during the match, but the question will be whether the pair start and how many minutes they will play. 

Fornaroli scored his first-ever goal in the competition against Shanghai and will be keen to add to his tally before Perth's time in the competition comes to an end.

Original author: Goal

Polisi Tanzania 1-1 Yanga SC: League leaders denied at the death

Atletico Madrid 1-1 Bayern Munich: Late Muller penalty delays progress for Simeone's side

Thomas Muller scored a late penalty to cancel out Joao Felix's first-half strike as Bayern Munich held Atletico Madrid to a 1-1 draw.

Atletico Madrid's hopes of qualifying from their Champions League group will go down to the final matchday after Thomas Muller scored an 86th-minute penalty to earn a weakened Bayern Munich a 1-1 draw at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Bayern had won their previous 15 games in UEFA's flagship competition but were already assured of top spot in Group A and left the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Manuel Neuer out of their travelling squad.

With Lokomotiv Moscow losing 3-1 at home to Salzburg earlier on Tuesday, victory for Atleti would make certain of second place with a game to spare, an aim they were on course to achieve thanks to Joao Felix's eighth goal in 14 appearances this season.

The Portugal international converted from a Marcos Llorente cutback after 26 minutes, but Felipe - brought on for the injured Jose Gimenez - felled Muller in the box and his fellow substitute converted from 12 yards. 

Atleti must now avoid defeat away at Salzburg next week to join Bayern, unbeaten in 14 games in all competitions after Muller's late goal, in the last 16.

Angel Correa tested Alexander Nubel, making his first appearance in the competition for Bayern, and Yannick Carrasco fired wide in a bright start to the match for Atletico.

The hosts made the breakthrough soon after as Llorente played a one-two on the right, carried the ball to the byline and picked out Joao Felix to finish from six yards.

Jamal Musiala fired just wide following a mazy run but Atleti still looked the more threatening, with Joao Felix denied by Nubel and Llorente blazing over from a good position.

Jan Oblak was called into action for the first time to routinely save from Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting's long-range effort just short of the hour mark as Atleti, boasting five clean sheets in six prior home games, held firm at the back.

But Bayern's pressure eventually told after Hansi Flick introduced Kingsley Coman and Muller, the latter being brought down in the box by Felipe's outstretched leg for a late penalty that he guided past the despairing dive of Oblak.
 

What does it mean? Group A goes down to the wire

Matchday six will be devoid of any real entertainment in many groups, but that is not the case in Group A as Atletico and Salzburg face off at Red Bull Arena next week in a shoot-out for second place.

Diego Simeone's men were helped by Flick's call to make nine changes from Bayern's previous match, with first place already secured and a top-of-the-table showdown with RB Leipzig to come in the Bundesliga next weekend.

But LaLiga's only unbeaten side this season did not register a single shot on target in a second half that saw them fail to preserve their lead after Bayern turned to big-name reinforcements.

Joao Felix leads from the front

The forward showed great awareness to get on the end of Llorente's cutback as he made it seven goals in his past seven starts for Atletico in all competitions - as many as he managed in his previous 29.

Joao Felix has more than stepped up in Luis Suarez's absence - the Uruguay international missing a fourth game running today through coronavirus - and managed more shots (three) and shots on target (two) than anyone else on the pitch and playing a joint-high two key passes.

Bright barely involved on Bayern bow

David Alaba retained his place in the side and captained Bayern on his 400th appearance for the club, showing yet again why he is so highly valued as he shifted across into the centre of a back three.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is Bright Arrey-Mbi, who was making his first outing at senior level. The 17-year-old defender had just 27 touches of the ball during his 61 minutes on the pitch - only Choupo-Moting (21) had fewer among outfield players up to that point.

Key Opta Facts

- Atletico have lost just one of their past 25 Champions League home games (W18 D6), a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea in September 2017. They have never lost a home Champions League game against the reigning champions (P5 W3 D2).
- Although their winning run came to an end, Bayern are unbeaten in each of their past 16 Champions League matches (W15 D1) since a 3-1 loss to Liverpool in March 2019.
- Bayern have failed to keep a clean sheet in four consecutive Champions League games for the first time since April 2017.
- The Bundesliga giants failed to land a shot on target in the first half of a Champions League group game for the first time since October 2009 versus Bordeaux.
- Muller scored his 47th Champions League goal, 21 more than any other German player in the competition's history.

What's next?

Atletico will be looking to make it seven LaLiga wins in a row when they host Real Valladolid on Saturday, the same day Bayern face Bundesliga title challengers Leipzig.

PSL Wrap: Golden Arrows move closer to Orlando Pirates, Swallows FC drop points

Manchester City and Porto will progress as winners and runners-up respectively from Champions League Group C after a goalless draw.

Porto joined Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stages after a 0-0 draw where Gabriel Jesus was denied a winning goal by VAR. 

Pep Guardiola's side were already through to the last-16 and will now progress as group winners, although they will be frustrated to have lost their 100 per cent record in this season's competition having dominated for long periods at Estadio do Dragao. 

Jesus scored on the rebound when Agustin Marchesin tipped his 80th-minute header onto the crossbar, although replays showed Joao Cancelo was fractionally offside before delivering his cross to the Brazil striker. 

Marseille's win over Olympiacos rendered this match to be academic, with the other two teams in Group C on three points apiece. 

City penned Porto into their own half for most of the opening exchanges, while each side had penalty claims ignored by referee Bjorn Kuipers - first when Malang Sarr slid in on Raheem Sterling before Ederson robustly met fellow Brazilian Otavio in his area. 

Ederson palmed Diogo Leite's 22nd-minute header out of his goalmouth, sparking a rapid break where opposite number Agustin Marchesin thwarted Ferran Torres. 

Sarr made a vital clearance over his own crossbar when Sterling scampered in behind the Porto defence, with the England winger's shot from the resulting corner cleared off the line by Zaidu Sanusi. 

Phil Foden's sumptuous 58th-minute throughball found Sterling, although Marchesin was equal to the task and Torres' footing deserted him when the rebound fell his way. 

In a remarkable 70th-minute sequence, a stretching Ruben Dias inadvertently hooked a Sterling attempt out of the Porto goalmouth, with Marchesin equal to Torres' overhead kick follow-up. 

The home goalkeeper made another brilliant save from Dias' centre-back partner Eric Garcia, earning his VAR reprieve by the time he was finally beaten by Jesus.


What does it mean? City's problems in front of goal remain 

If Saturday's 5-0 demolition of Burnley hinted at an end to an unusually fallow spell for Guardiola's attack, this latest outing suggested their shot-shy struggles of 2020-21 are set to continue. Despite dominating possession, City could only muster a solitary shot on target during the first half, while a final tally of 18 attempts is their most at goal without scoring in a Champions League match.  

Until Jesus' arrival in the 71st-minute they continued to lack cutting edge. Getting and keeping Jesus and Sergio Aguero - again a knee injury absentee - fit feels key to their chances of success this term. 

Marvellous Marchesin stands tall 

Marchesin will probably have been grateful to see fellow Argentine Aguero missing out, although he may very well have blunted his illustrious countryman in this mood.

The fact no Porto outfield player bettered Marchesin's 29 touches in the first half said much for their limited attacking intent; his five impressive saves showing he was more than up to the task as the last line of a deep-lying defence. 

Zinchenko passes up chance to impress 

Guardiola's decision to field naturally left-footed players on his left flank during the Champions League campaign has generally led to more free-flowing displays when compared to City's stuttering Premier League efforts.

This contest might not have been so attritional had Zinchenko found his range when roving from left-back. The Ukraine international linked well with Foden and Bernardo Silva to frequently find himself in good positions in the final third, but none of his 10 crosses from open play were successful. 

Key Opta facts

- Porto remain winless in their last six Champions League games against English sides (D2 L4), failing to score in four of those meetings.
- City have progressed as group winners for the fifth time in six seasons, only failing to do so in 2016-17 (when they finished second to Barcelona).
- Porto have ended a run of 14 Champions League home games without a draw, this their first since September 2016.
- City have kept four consecutive clean sheets in the Champions League for the first time, as many as they managed in the group stages in their last two campaigns combined.
- Guardiola has seen his side draw 0-0 in the Champions League for the first time in 59 games.

What's next? 

City will chase back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time this season when they entertain Fulham on Saturday, when Porto are at home to Tondela in the Primeira Liga. 

Man Utd at disaster's door, Chelsea-Spurs gets feisty, Madrid rally while Barca sputter

ISL 2020-21: Hyderabad FC vs Jamshedpur FC - TV channel, stream, kick-off time & match preview

Manuel Marquez's side is yet to score a goal from open play this season while the Men of Steel are in the hunt for their first win under Owen Coyle...

Hyderabad FC take on Jamshedpur FC in a round three encounter of the 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) at the Tilak Maidan stadium in Vasco, on Wednesday evening. 

Game Hyderabad FC vs Jamshedpur FC
Date Wednesday, December 2
Time 7:30 PM IST (GMT +5:30)
 

TV CHANNELS & LIVE STREAM

The Star Sports Network have the exclusive broadcasting rights of the ISL in India.

India (English) TV channels Online streaming
Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 2 SD & HD Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV


Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

Hindi TV channels Bengali TV channels
Star Sports Hindi 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 3, Star Gold 2 Star Sports Bangla
 
Malayalam TV channels Kannada TV channels
Asianet Plus, Asianet Movies Star Sports Kannada
 
Tamil TV Channels Telegu TV channels
Star Sports Tamil Star Sports Telugu

 

TEAM NEWS

Hyderabad FC Possible XI:   

Injured - Joel Chianese, Luis Sastre
Doubtful - Fran Sandaza, Adil Khan    
Suspended - None  

Key Players - Aridane Santana, Joao Victor     


Jamshedpur FC Possible XI: 

Injured - Joyner Lourenco, Narender Gahlot  
Doubtful - David Grande    
Suspended - Rehenesh TP

Key Players -  Nerijus Valskis, Alex Lima     

 

Original author: Anselm Noronha

Wales predicted lineup vs Italy - Euro 2020

The test game was cancelled just hours ahead of kick-off due to a number of positive coronavirus tests within the visitors' team

Chile's second international friendly match against Zambia was called off on Tuesday after the visitors were put into quarantine by local health authorities due to a spate of Covid-19 cases.

The South Americans suffered a 2-1 defeat against the Olympic Games-bound Copper Queens after strikes from Barbara Banda and Racheal Nachula helped the Africans to a comeback win last Thursday.

The pre-Olympic preparation match in Santiago was in doubt from the moment Chilean health officials declared their decision regarding the Zambian travelling party.

Four Zambia players tested positive for the coronavirus on Tuesday, after performing the antigen tests before cases were retested and again came out positive.

ANFP Medical Commission general coordinator Casar Kalazich said in a statement," As dictated by the sanitary protocols of the ANFP Medical Commission, we have carried out the test for Covid-19 for the Zambian women's team.

"In antigen testing, a test validated by Chilean soccer, they have yielded four positive results.

"Therefore, and due to the high risk it represents for this match, we have decided to cancel it," added Kalazich, who is also the Chilean Society of Occupational Medicine president.

Following advice from health authorities, the Chilean Football Federation confirmed the match scheduled to kick off 6:30 pm local time (22:30 GMT) at the Santiago National Stadium would not go ahead.

Chile are preparing for an African/South American Olympic playoff two-legged contest against Cameroon, with the first leg scheduled for February 18 in Yaounde and second leg six days later in Santiago.

Zambia, on the other hand, are gearing up for a maiden Olympic appearance in Tokyo next year following an incredible automatic qualification at the expense of Cameroon in March this year.

 

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

Bitesize Prediction: Chicago Fire vs Inter Miami – 11/09/22

Curtis Jones' second-half goal secured Liverpool's progress to the Champions League knockout stages as group winners.

Liverpool secured passage to the Champions League knockout stages as group winners as they earned a 1-0 win over Ajax.

A second-half goal from teenager Curtis Jones ensured the Reds would progress to the next stage on Wednesday, although academy prospect Caoimhin Kelleher, given his chance in goal, was required to make a stunning late save from Klaas Jan Huntelaar to protect the points at Anfield.

Better was still to come for Jurgen Klopp and co, too, as news of Atalanta's shock draw with Midtjylland meant top spot was clinched in Group D with a game to spare.

Liverpool had been hit by yet another injury blow in the form of a hamstring issue for Alisson, meaning Kelleher was handed his Champions League debut, preferred to Adrian.

The 22-year-old was initially a virtual spectator during a strong start from the hosts that saw fellow youngster Jones crack the post from distance.

Ajax grew into the game as it progressed, however, and called Kelleher into action on the half-hour mark through Noussair Mazraoui's thunderous effort from the edge of the box.

The Irishman should have been tested again shortly after the break but instead saw Davy Klaassen head a glorious chance wide from a well-worked free-kick.

And Ajax went even closer moments later, David Neres striking the post from a tight angle after following up on Mazraoui's parried shot.

They were made to regret those misses almost instantly, too.

Neco Williams' deep left-footed cross appeared to be leading to nothing, but a horrible misjudgement from goalkeeper Andre Onana allowed Jones to poke the ball home from a tight angle at the back post.

Although Onana was more impressive in smothering from Salah and saving well from substitute Roberto Firmino, the damage was done for Ajax, who must now beat Atalanta on matchday six to advance after Kelleher instinctively repelled Huntelaar's close-range header.
 

What does it mean? Relief for Reds

With a packed fixture list causing Liverpool all sorts of injury problems, Klopp will be relieved that nothing now rides on next week's visit to Midtjylland in this competition.

By contrast, Ajax host Atalanta knowing they need a win to pip their opponents to the second qualification spot in Group D.

Big milestone for youngster

Coming into this season, Jones would not have expected to be starting four out of Liverpool's first five Champions League group games, but the local lad has certainly grabbed his chance.

Scorer of the winning goal here, the teenager took more shots than anyone else on the pitch (four), including hitting the post, and even chipped in defensively, winning four of his five aerial duels.

Mane looking out of sorts

With just one goal from his past 10 outings, Sadio Mane is enduring a poor run of form by his incredibly high standards.

The Senegalese looked out of sorts in this one, losing possession on 15 occasions (more than any other Liverpool player), and getting just one of three shots on target.

Key Opta Facts

- Ajax lost for the first time in their past 12 away games in the Champions League (W7 D4).
- Liverpool have registered four clean sheets in their past five Champions League games (two goals conceded in total) after managing just one in eight before that (12 goals conceded).
- Kelleher is the first Irish player to appear in the Champions League for Liverpool since Robbie Keane in December 2008 (also against Dutch opposition in PSV) and just the fourth for the Reds overall in the competition (also Steven Finnan and Darren Potter).
- He is the 11th goalkeeper to appear for Liverpool in the Champions League but only the second to keep a clean sheet on his debut for the Reds in the competition, after Chris Kirkland (v Galatasaray in 2002).
- Liverpool's opener was the first time in Champions League history one teenager, Williams (19y 232d), assisted another, Jones (19y 306d), for a Premier League side.

What's next?

Liverpool return to Premier League action against Wolves on Sunday, while Ajax host Twente in the Eredivisie on Saturday.


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