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‘Pogba went missing too often, but form is back’ – Man Utd midfielder must maintain standards, says Meulensteen

The Croatia international became the third Los Nervionenses player to score and assist against Los Blancos in a league game

Ivan Rakitic has equalled Frederic Kanoute and Renato Dirnei’s Sevilla record against Real Madrid.

The 33-year-old Croatian midfielder set up Fernando before finding the net in Sunday’s 2-2 La Liga draw with Zinedine Zidane’s men.

In the process, he became the first player since Kanoute and Dirnei to score and assist in a Spanish elite division encounter against Los Blancos.

The former Mali and Brazil internationals achieved their mark 13 years ago when Manolo Jimenez’s Los Nervionenses secured a 4-3 triumph over Madrid at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on December 7, 2008.

Having crashed out of the Champions League following a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Zidane’s team took on the visitors with the ambition of picking up a win that would boost their Spanish topflight title quest.

Twelve minutes into the game, Karim Benzema peeled away from his marker at the far post to head past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou a cross from Alvaro Odriozola. However, that effort was ruled for an offside.

It was the visiting side who took the lead in the 22nd minute through Fernando. Jesus Navas’ cross was deftly cushioned into the path of the Brazilian midfielder by Rakitic. He smartly skipped the challenge of Casemiro before slotting home.

The hosts had to wait until the 67th minute to equalise through Marco Asensio. A minute after coming on for Luka Modric, the Spaniard was picked out in the area by Toni Kroos, before beating Bounou with a first-time finish.

Julen Lopetegui’s side restored their lead from the penalty spot in the 78th minute after Rakitic sent Thibaut Courtois the wrong way after a Sevilla corner struck the arm of Eder Militao.

Eden Hazard ensured that the game all squared after deflecting a Kroos’ low shot.

Youssef En-Nesyri was introduced for Alejandro Gomez in the 56th minute, whereas, his compatriot Munir El Haddadi was not listed for action.

With this result, Zidane’s side missed the chance to go top of La Liga as rivals Barcelona and Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid settled for a 0-0 draw on Saturday.

Fourth-placed Sevilla welcome Valencia to the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan in their next outing.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Transfer news and rumours LIVE: PSG re-sign Arsenal-linked Draxler

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

‘We need to talk’ – Marquinhos hits out at PSG display as Ligue 1 title slips away

Mauricio Pochettino's side now must rely on teams elsewhere doing them a favour in the final weeks of the season

Paris Saint-Germain’s grasp on the Ligue 1 title looks tenuous as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Rennes on Sunday, and Marquinhos says that the players “need to talk”.

Neymar opened the scoring from a contested penalty in first-half stoppage-time, but PSG were unable to build on their lead and Serhou Guirassy headed an equaliser in the second period.

Presnel Kimpembe was subsequently sent off while Rennes had the better chances to win the game late on.

What was said?

Speaking to Canal+, the captain said: “Of course it's a blow to morale. We will believe until the end, but we have to do a lot better at PSG. We know it's difficult and Lille win every game, but we have to believe we can win the title and win our last matches.

“We had chances and we couldn't score. Football is like that, it's details. If you can't be decisive ... We repeat it every time, but it's the truth. We have chances and we don't score. They score on a corner.

“It's football, but we realise that we have to do better when we see the results of the season. We lost games that we shouldn't. We lost too many points at home and it hurts us in the end.

“During the next week, we will have to talk. Because when you're at PSG, it's unacceptable to let points go like that. One, two, three times ... It's starting to happen a lot.

"It’s clearly not our best season. We weren't very strong and we have to do a lot better. We need to talk to each other for next season.”

The bigger picture

PSG are three points behind Lille with two matches remaining. The Parisians are reliant on Lille failing to take four points from a match against Saint-Etienne at home and a trip to Angers – both very winnable games.

Meanwhile, PSG, who play Montpellier in the Coupe de France semi-final on Wednesday, host Reims then go to Brest.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side were knocked out of Europe in midweek by Manchester City at the semi-final stage of the Champions League.

Further reading

Neymar's new PSG deal a huge statement of intent but Mbappe still stalling

Tuchel has no feelings of revenge for PSG sacking after reaching Champions League final with Chelsea

Neymar extends PSG contract through 2025

Original author: Goal

'I still feel very responsible' - Arteta admits he's still hurting after Europa League exit

The Gunners were ejected in the final four in midweek by Villarreal and old boss Unai Emery, and their manager says he remains troubled by the defeat

Mikel Arteta has admitted that he is "still hurting" days after Arsenal's Europa League semi-final exit to Villarreal, stating that he still feels the weight of responsibility for their double-legged defeat.

The Gunners crashed out of continental football against the Spanish side, coached by former boss Unai Emery, on Thursday evening after they were held to a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium, dashing hopes of silverware and an all-English foursome in major European finals this term.

Though Arsenal can still qualify for either the Europa League or newly created Europa Conference League mathematically, they face an uphill battle to do so - and with the likelihood of no international club football for his side looming, Arteta acknowledged that it still weighs heavily upon him.

What has been said?

"I do take [responsibility], it is still there, still hurting," the Spaniard told BBC Sport following his side's victory over West Brom in the Premier League on Sunday, to condemn Sam Allardyce's side to relegation and the Championship next term.

"You can probably see in my body language it is still there. There were very small margins. I still feel very responsible," he added.

"We have done so many right steps, some you can see and some you can't. The foundations are there.

"[Today], the best way to do it is with the right attitude. The three goals were very different but really good individual and collective actions."

Arteta hails Smith Rowe success

Though the scoreline reflected a degree of comfort for Arsenal, they were forced to work for their win by a Baggies side determined to fight until the last, with Willian's late free-kick helping to craft breathing space.

The opener however came for Emile Smith Rowe, who netted his first top-flight goal for the club to put them on the way to victory, and Arteta added that he feels the youngster is headed in the right direction.

"He is developing the right way [with] his first Premier League goal," he stated. "His level is to do that and score 15 goals. He is making the right steps."

Further reading

Zidane 'very angry' with controversial Sevilla penalty as Real Madrid lose ground in La Liga

A VAR review determined Eder Militao had handled the ball in the box, negating a penalty at the other end after a swift counter

Zinedine Zidane has said he is "very angry" after a controversial VAR decision went against Real Madrid in a disappointing 2-2 draw with Sevilla on Sunday, which stalled their pursuit of Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga.

During a review of a 78th-minute penalty won by Karim Benzema, referees determined an earlier play at the other end involved a handball in the box by Real Madrid defender Eder Militao. Rather than giving Real Madrid a spot kick, Sevilla were awarded one. Ivan Rakitic converted to take a one-goal advantage before Eden Hazard equalised deep in stoppage time.

While Zidane had the call explained to him, he said later: "What they have told me has not convinced me".

What has been said?

"I'm very angry," Zidane told Movistar. "I spoke to the referee to look for an explanation. It's really complicated because we deserved much more but it is what it is."

He added later in his press conference: “I don’t understand anything from the referee. If there is a Militao handball, it is Sevilla handball as well.

“I am not convinced by what he told me. I never speak about referees, but today I am angry.

"Don't ask me any more about this, I've already said what I think. They have to explain the handball rules to me and that's it. We're going to fight until the end. Until the death."

Asked if he trusted VAR, Zidane added: "I trust football. What I'm saying is that I saw two handballs and they only called ours."

La Liga title race

Real Madrid could have passed first-place Atletico Madrid with a victory but are instead stuck two points behind their rivals. They are level on points with Barcelona, holding the tiebreaker with the Blaugrana for second place, and sit four points ahead of Sevilla.

There are three more matches for each of the top four sides, with Real Madrid still to play Granada, Athletic Club and Villarreal.

Further reading

Pirlo insists he won't resign after AC Milan hammer Juventus

A 3-0 loss at the hands of the San Siro club leaves Juve in danger of missing out on the Champions League next season

Andrea Pirlo says that he will not stand down from his role as Juventus head coach despite another major setback against AC Milan on Sunday.

Rookie boss Pirlo watched from the sidelines as the Bianconeri were dismantled 3-0 at home by their rivals.

The heavy loss came just a week after Juventus had officially relinquished the Serie A crown for the first time after nine successive titles.

What was said?

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Pirlo said: “Resign? No, I won’t step aside. I took this role with a great deal of enthusiasm amid certain difficulties. I am at the disposal of the club, there are still three games to go, so I will continue doing my work as long as I am allowed to.

“I had a different project in my mind and thought I would have a different group at my disposal. I had been working on some concepts, but then I had to make changes in order to suit their characteristics and had to adapt.

“It’s not that this team is resistant to change, but if you have some things in your mind and they become more difficult with certain players. If I cannot get the best out of these players, that is my fault and I certainly need to do better.

“If something didn’t go right, I take responsibility. This squad is made up of great players, clearly something did not work.”

The bigger picture

Juventus are now in grave danger of missing out on the Champions League entirely next season. With three matches of the season remaining, they are fifth in the league, three points behind both Atalanta and Milan, as well as one back of Napoli.

And Juventus face a testing schedule. On Wednesday, they travel to eighth-placed Sassuolo before hosting Inter, their fiercest rivals and this season's Serie A champions, next Saturday. The Coppa Italia final against Atalanta follows on May 19 before a final trip to mid-table Bologna.

With Juve in financial difficulties, they can barely afford to miss out on the money-spinning Champions League, making the next two weeks absolutely vital to their hopes in the years ahead.

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Tuchel: Wins over Man City give Chelsea 'true and genuine belief' they can win Champions League final

The Blues have beat City twice in the span of a month ahead of a third meeting later in May

Thomas Tuchel thinks his Chelsea players will be boosted by the knowledge that they can beat Manchester City ahead of the Champions League final later this month.

Chelsea beat City 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday to deny Pep Guardiola's side the chance to secure the Premier League title, the Blues' second win over City in the span of a month.

Man City remain almost certain for league glory and will face Tuchel's side again in the European final on May 29.

What was said?

"It will not change too much no matter what the result was. But surely it is not a disadvantage to us to have this experience in such a short time to have the possibility to beat them twice," Tuchel told reporters in Manchester.

"We know very well that if you play a final, the context is very special. You have to fight for every centimetre and little advantage that you can win that game. Yes, it gives us the true and genuine belief that we can do it because we have already done it.

"We will try to conserve this feeling and momentum for our arrival in Istanbul. We arrive with our target and clear objective to win. The best way to play a final is through confidence and I think we can conserve the feelings from these matches."

What's next for Chelsea?

Before they can dream of winning their second Champions League trophy, the Blues have a series of domestic matches with Arsenal, Leicester City and Aston Villa to come in their last few league games.

After facing the Gunners in midweek, they will also play in an FA Cup final against Leicester City at Wembley Stadium. With a top-four place looking more likely but not yet secure, Tuchel has told his team not to let the praise get to their head.

"It feels like every game is a decisive game because, in all competitions, we have to fight hard to fulfil our goals, to reach our goals and dreams," he added.

"We take it how it is. It is not a disadvantage and I like the atmosphere and spirit. The context of the games is that we are constantly under pressure. The team is living up to it in an impressive way and we have to keep on going.

"Now that we have caught this momentum and worked so hard for it. Our job is not done in the FA Cup, Champions League or Premier League. We are in the middle of it and have to keep on going."

Further reading

Original author: Nizaar Kinsella

Brahim Diaz makes AC Milan history with Juventus goal

The Spanish youngster of Moroccan descent becomes the youngest Red and Blacks scorer at the Juventus Stadium since 2008

Brahim Diaz made AC Milan history on Sunday after a finely taken goal which inspired his team to a 3-0 away win over Juventus in a Serie A encounter.

The Spain youth international found the net in the 45th minute to open the scoring at the Juventus Stadium to give

Hakan Calhanoglu’s free-kick fell to the far post for Diaz, who took a touch to get past Juan Cuadrado before unleashing a curling effort that nestled into the roof of Wojciech Szczesny’s net.

With that strike, he became the youngest player to score for AC Milan on Juventus ground at the age of 21 years and 279 days.

Alexandre Pato – who now represents Orlando City in the Major League Soccer – achieved his mark on December 14, 2008, in the Red and Blacks’ 4-2 loss to the Old Lady while he was 19 years and 103 days old.

Unbeaten in their last three games, Andrea Pirlo’s men faced their eternal rivals with the ambition of brightening their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

However, they lost all three points at stake against their impressive visitors.

Twelve minutes into the second half, Milan had the chance to double their lead from the spot following Giorgio Chiellini’s handball in the area, but Szczesny was well placed to save Franck Kessie’s poor penalty.

Despite having Alvaro Morata and Cristiano Ronaldo leading their attack, Juventus failed to get the equaliser and credit must be given to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

In the 68th minute, Ronaldo completed a couple of step-overs inside the penalty area to work some room, before curling an effort to the far post which misses the target by a significant distance.

Super-sub Ante Rebic sealed the win for the visiting side in the 78th minute. The striker received Ismael Bennacer’s pass in space on the edge of the penalty area in-between two centre-backs, before unleashing a powerful strike past Szczesny.

Four minutes later, England international of Nigerian origin Fikayo Tomori completed the defeat.

He rose higher than Juventus defenders to nod Calhanoglu’s effort down into the ground before bouncing into the net.

After an impressive shift, Real Madrid loanee Diaz was substituted in the 70th minute for Rade Krunic.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Soweto Derby: Ex-Kaizer Chiefs captain Tau feels dropped points could haunt Orlando Pirates in PSL title race

The veteran attacker was forced off against Juventus and grimaced as he was withdrawn

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was taken off with a knee injury in the second half of AC Milan’s thumping 3-0 win over Juventus on Sunday.

Ibrahimovic was competing in the midfield for a ball when he went down with what appeared to be a non-contact injury. He persisted for a couple of minutes but ultimately needed to be replaced by Ante Rebic.

Goals from Brahim Diaz, Rebic and Fikayo Tomori gave Milan a crucial win in their chase for a Champions League spot.

What was said?

"Ibra wasn't fit before the game, now he feels pain in his knee and we hope it's nothing too serious," Milan head coach Stefano Pioli told Sky Sport Italia after the final whistle.

How long will Zlatan be out for?

No details of the injury issue are presently known, meaning there is a huge question mark of just how long Ibrahimovic will be missing.

When he departed the pitch, he did so grimacing and shaking his head. Juve defender Giorgio Chiellini comforted Ibrahimovic while he was down, suggesting the Swede was in some distress.

Ibrahimovic has had serious knee problems before in his career, rupturing his ACL when playing with Manchester United in a Europa League tie with Anderlecht. That proved the catalyst to the end of his career at Old Trafford before he switched to the LA Galaxy.

Ibrahimovic’s target this time around has been to feature for Sweden at Euro 2020, although that presently appears in some doubt due to the nature of the problem.

What games could Ibrahimovic miss?

Milan have three Serie A matches remaining as they look to finish in the top four, as they face Torino, Cagliari and Atalanta to close out their campaign. 

On the international stage Ibrahimovic will be targeting June 14, when Sweden kick off their European Championship schedule with a game against Spain.

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Fortnite: Which football club outfits are in the game, what is the Pele Cup & how to get Pele's Air Punch Emote

The Algeria international was on the scoresheet to help the Paillade return to winning ways at Stade de la Meinau

Andy Delort found the back of the net as Montpellier secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Strasbourg in Sunday’s Ligue 1 game.

The 29-year-old has been delivering impressive performances in front of goal and against the Racers, he continued his fine showings.

Delort scored his second consecutive goal at Stade de la Meinau after also finding the back of the net against Saint-Etienne last weekend.

Montpellier started the game impressively, enjoying more possession, and got on the scoresheet in the 36th minute.

Gaetan Laborde opened the scoring for Michel Der Zakarian’s side with a fine header after he was set up by Junior Sambiam.

Delort then doubled the lead with a fine finish, lobbing the ball over goalkeeper Matz Sels after finding himself in a one-on-one situation.

Laborde completed his brace in the 49th minute which seemed to awake Strasbourg as they launched a late comeback into the game.

Ludovic Ajorque reduced the deficit for the Stade de la Meinau outfit before Kevin Zohi scored after receiving a fine assist from Sanjin Prcic.

Montpellier, however, held on to their lead to secure all three points in the encounter, frustrating the moves of the Racers to try and share the points.

Delort featured for 77 minutes before he was replaced by Elye Wahi, made two key passes, and won seven aerial contests as part of his contribution in the game.

The Algeria international has now scored 17 goals and provided nine assists in 31 appearances across all competitions this season.

With the victory, Montpellier moved to the eighth spot on the league table after gathering 50 points from 36 games.

Delort will hope to continue his blistering performances when Montpellier take on Paris Saint-Germain in a French Cup tie on May 12.

The attacker has 10 caps for the Algeria national team since he made his debut against Mali in 2019 and remains a key member of the African side.

 

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

Pereira equals Berahino’s West Brom’s mark against Arsenal

The Brazilian winger found the net against the Gunners to match a feat achieved by the Burundi international six years ago

Matheus Pereira became the first West Bromwich Albion player to score at least ten goals in a Premier League season since Sadio Berahino.

The 25-year-old recorded his tenth goal of the 2020-21 campaign in Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Mikel Arteta's Gunners at the Emirates Stadium.

With the hosts taking a two-goal lead following goals from Emile Smith-Rowe and Nicolas Pepe, the former Sporting Lisbon star reduced the deficit for Sam Allardyce’s men in the 67th minute.

Pereira ran the length of the field before slotting the ball past goalkeeper Bernd Leno as Arsenal’s defenders were caught flatfooted.

Thanks to his recent effort, he matched Berahino’s Baggies feat achieved during the 2014-15 campaign. That season, the Burundi international found the net on 14 occasions to finish as the club’s top scorer.

His team’s ambition of leaving with at least a point vanquished into thin air in the second minute of added time as Willian rolled a sumptuous free-kick past Sam Johnstone.

That was the Brazilian’s first direct free-kick goal in the English elite division since July 2020 versus West Ham United during his time at Chelsea.

Alongside Nigeria international Semi Ajayi, Pereira was in action from start to finish as they suffered their 28th defeat this term.

Saka, Mohamed Elneny and Pepe saw every minute of action, whereas, former Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey was introduced for Daniel Ceballos in the 77th minute.

Whereas, captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and England youth international of Ghanaian descent Edward Nketiah were unused substitutes.

The result relegated the Hawthorns’ giants to the English Championship for the fifth time in their history – which saw Allardyce lose his record of having been demoted from the EPL.

For the North Londoners, they climbed to ninth in the log having accrued 52 points from 35 matches played so far this season.

Arsenal continue their chase for a place in Europe next season with their next fixture versus red-hot Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on May 12.

West Brom welcome Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool in their next outing next Sunday at home. A win for the Reds would boost their Champions League pursuit.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Simy Nwankwo rant: Rohr excuse is ‘ridiculous’

Goal’s Ed Dove isn’t convinced by the Nigeria coach’s rationale for snubbing the Crotone frontman

Gernot Rohr’s explanation for why he’s continuing to overlook Simy Nwankwo for the Nigeria national side generated some ire in the latest African Football HQ podcast.

Discussing the in-form Crotone forward, and the German coach’s rationale for continuing to overlook him for the Super Eagles set-up, AFHQ’s Ed Dove branded Rohr’s comments ‘ridiculous’ and accused the manager of disrespecting Nigeria fans.

When asked in a recent interview about Simy’s exclusion, Rohr advised him to seek more established employers if he wants to make an impression in the national side.

"As I said before, I have never stopped following his performances, but I believe that next year he must go and play in a club and in a team that is stronger than Crotone," Rohr told Europa Calcio.

"It will not be equally easy, but he would already have a better chance of returning to the national team."

The coach certainly has a surplus of attacking options—with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Paul Onuachu and Terem Moffi all competing for playing time—but surely this explanation insults the intelligence of Nigeria fans.

Simy is enjoying a remarkable campaign in Serie A.

Despite playing for the worst team in the league—a side who have been relegated with only five goals, having conceded a bucketful—the towering forward has netted 19 goals in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.

He’s broken Obafemi Martins’ record for the most goals scored by a Nigerian player in the Italian top flight, and simultaneously smashed Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s record for goals scored by a Nigerian in a single season in any of Europe’s top five leagues.

Yet Simy can’t seem to get a break.

Not only was the striker snubbed when he attempted to swap shirts with Cristiano Ronaldo following a recent match, but he’s also been overlooked by Rohr.

“It seems a bit pedantic when a guy has scored 19 goals,” Dove told the AFHQ podcast, “in one of the world’s biggest leagues.

“Why does it matter who he’s playing for when he’s achieved those kinds of numbers?”

Rohr’s explanation also lacks consistency, with the coach having called up players from teams which have a much lower standing in the game than Crotone, and slaps of the coach trying to fob off Nigeria fans with a nonsense response.

“Ahmed Musa was playing in Saudi Arabia when he was called,” Dove continued. “You’ve got guys playing for Enyimba, guys playing for Kano Pillars, in Reading in the second tier of English football, for Leganes in Segunda, playing in Slovakia, Denmark.

“He’s saying that Simy, who’s scored 19 goals in Serie A, needs to move to a stronger club…it is absolutely ridiculous.”

Either Rohr is insulting the intelligence of Nigeria fans, or he doesn’t truly understand what a feat it is for the Nigeria frontman to almost hit the 20-goal mark in one of the world’s biggest leagues for lowly Crotone.

Original author: Ed Dove

West Brom relegated from Premier League after Arsenal defeat

The Baggies will drop down to the Championship after suffering defeat at the hands of the Gunners on Sunday

West Brom have been relegated from the Premier League after a 3-1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday.

The loss leaves Sam Allardyce's team 10 points away from safety in the English top flight with three games left to play.

West Brom went behind against the Gunners less than 30 minutes into the clash at Emirates Stadium when Emile Smith Rowe struck from close range. Nicolas Pepe doubled the home side's lead in the 35th minute by smashing into the top corner. Matheus Pereira gave the visitors hope in the second half before Willian wrapped up the points with a late free kick.

What was said?

"It's not sunk in yet, but I'm sure I'll wake up tomorrow and realise the situation," Allardyce told BT Sport. "I'm bitterly disappointed we're not still in the fight.

"I'm not saying we would have avoided relegation but we should have been closer, we should have taken it down to the last three games, based on how we performed. The creating of chances has been there but the converting has not.

"We had [enough] time to pull it round. Our real problem was not beating the bottom-six sides when we came up against them. The results against Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City should have been bonus points."

West Brom unable to avoid the drop

The Baggies are now four games without a win, having lost two and drawn two as their bid for Premier League safety collapsed.

Allardyce's team still have games against Liverpool, West Ham and Leeds to round off the campaign.

After just one season back in the top flight, they will return to the Championship with Sheffield United, while Fulham look set to follow, having taken just one point from their last six games.

Allardyce's run ends

After 17 seasons in the Premier League, Allardyce has been relegated from the top flight for the first time in his career.

The story of West Brom's season

West Brom's season had a miserable opening as they started with a nine-game winless run, though they did draw 3-3 with Chelsea in September.

Their first victory came against bottom side Sheffield United in late November and the club hoped to turn their campaign around by changing managers, sacking Slaven Bilic in December and putting Allardyce in charge.

Although they drew 1-1 with both Manchester City and Liverpool, they would not pick up their second win until January 16 when they won 3-2 at Wolves.

Since then they have held Manchester United to a 1-1 draw and beaten Chelsea 5-2 in the highlight of their campaign. They have also recorded victories against Brighton and Southampton.

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Where's 'Komphela is curse and can't win trophy' brigade now?' - Twitter reacts to Mamelodi Sundowns win

The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor could soon be lifting the league title with Masandawana where is serving as the senior coach

Mamelodi Sundowns boosted their ambitions of winning this season's PSL title after defeating TS Galaxy 1-0 on Sunday and it was also their third successive victory in the competition. 

Peter Shalulile scored the only goal of the game in the first half for Masandawana, who have taken a giant step towards becoming the first club to win four consecutive PSL titles. 

The Tshwane giants are sitting pretty at the top of the league standings - seven points clear of second-placed AmaZulu FC - and they will clinch the championship if they win their next two matches.

Some fans took to social media to state that Sundowns have already clinched the trophy with the Tshwane giants set to take on SuperSport United and Swallows FC in their upcoming league games. 

Here is how Twitter reacted to Sundowns' narrow win over Galaxy: 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

‘The future of Arsenal’ – Twitter gushes over Saka and Smith-Rowe

The youngsters combined to give the Gunners the lead against the Baggies and that has football fans talking on social media

Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith-Rowe combined to give Arsenal the lead against West Bromwich Albion and that has football fans talking on social media.

The youngsters combined well as the Gunners took the lead against Sam Allardyce’s team at the Emirates Stadium a minute before the half-hour mark.

Smith-Rowe put the ball past goalkeeper Sam Johnstone after the English star of Nigerian descent caused havoc down the flank before clipping an accurate cross in the middle.

Six minutes later, Nicolas Pepe doubled the advantage for Mikel Arteta’s men to give the hosts a two-goal lead at half-time.

Nonetheless, it was Smith-Rowe and Saka who got football fans across the world talking.

Original author: Shina Oludare

Liverpool sign Celta Vigo teenager Stefan Bajcetic

The coach was left angered by the decision to award the visitors a spot kick as well as Ollie Watkins' red card

Aston Villa manager Dean Smith has hit out at the decision to award Manchester United a penalty as his side went down 3-1 on Sunday.

After Bertrand Traore gave the home side the lead, United pulled level with a penalty from Bruno Fernandes in the second half.

The spot kick was awarded after Paul Pogba went down under a challenge from Douglas Luiz, but Smith was left perplexed by the referee's call, especially in the wake of Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling being denied a penalty in a similar situation against Chelsea on Saturday.

What did Smith say?

"The first five minutes we didn't start very well but then played really well in the first half, high-pressed them and got a deserved goal," he said to Sky Sports.

"The penalty decision affected us more than it did them."

He added on the penalty: "I don't think anybody knows, everybody is confused how Raheem Sterling can go through and have four or five touches on him last night and not get a penalty, then one touch here and it is a penalty - it looked a pathetic decision to me, but he goes down, similar to Old Trafford and last season here.

Smith angry at Watkins dismissal

Villa ended the game with 10 men as striker Ollie Watkins was sent off late on.

The decision to give him his second booking angered Smith further and he feels his side were let down by the officials after a VAR review.

"Ollie Watkins has got sent off for a second yellow, there is no way the referee can tell me he is convinced he hasn't been touched," he said.

"I just don't understand the decision-making of the officials and more importantly at Stockley Park.

"It looks like now he has to get hurt to win the penalty - is it enough contact for a penalty? No."

What next for Villa?

After the defeat to United, Villa will host Everton on Thursday, followed by a trip to Crystal Palace next Sunday.

Villa will then face Tottenham on May 19 before finishing their Premier League campaign with a home match against Chelsea.

Further reading

Original author: Peter McVitie

Ajax vs Atalanta: facts

The Nigeria international could not add to his tally as Serse Cosmi’s men lost to the Yellow and Reds

Simy Nwankwo featured as Roma hammered Crotone 5-0 in Sunday’s Serie A game at Stadio Olimpico.

The attacker was handed a starting role in the encounter and featured for the duration of the game but could not help his side to avoid defeat

Having already been relegated from the Italian top-flight, Serse Cosmi’s men made little effort to halt their unimpressive run of form as they suffered their 27th loss of the campaign.

The game started with both sides aiming to outwit each other and in the 17th minute, Roma came close to opening the scoring through Henrikh Mkhitaryan but his effort hit the post.

That was the best chance of the first-half as both sides headed into the half-time break without being able to find the back of the net.

After the restart, however, Roma launched a powerful attack, breaking the deadlock in the 47th minute through Borja Mayoral after an assist from Mkhitaryan.

Lorenzo Pellegrini doubled the lead for the Yellow and Reds in the 70th minute after receiving a pass from Davide Santon.

Pellegrini completed his brace three minutes later and in the 78th minute, Mkhitaryan scored a goal of his own with a well-taken strike.

Moments before the end of the game, Mayoral sealed the victory for Roma to wrap up his brace in the encounter.

Simy made an effort to try and score a consolatory goal for the Stadio Ezio Scida outfit but could not break Roma's defense.

The lanky forward struck two shots, completed two dribbles, won four aerial contests, and had 50 touches on the ball as part of his contribution.

Simy has been the standout performer for Crotone this season, scoring 19 league goals and providing two assists.

The forward will be expected to help his side return to winning ways when they take on Hellas Verona in their next league game on May 13.

It is yet to be seen if the forward, who is left with one year on his current contract, will remain at Stadio Ezio Scida beyond the summer.

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

Copyright

© UEFA

Orlando Pirates transfers: Players who could leave in January

The highly-rated youngster struggles as a number 10 because of his small frame according to the former Pirates captain

Kaizer Chiefs legend Jimmy Tau has urged the Mamelodi Sundowns technical team to use Promise Mkhuma as an inverted winger or number eight.

This comes after the 20-year-old attacker was brought in to replace reigning PSL Footballer of the Year Themba Zwane in starting line-up as Masandawana secured a 1-0 win over TS Galaxy in a PSL match on Sunday.

The win saw Masandawana open a seven-point gap at the top of the league standings and Tau feels that it is the right time for co-coaches Manqoba Mngqithi and Rhulani Mokwena to field Mkhuma.

"It is encouraging and it is the ideal time because there is less pressure. There is a cushion in terms of the points that they have secured," Tau told SuperSport TV.

"But what we have been talking about with Amanda [Dlamini - former Banyana Banyana captain] during off-air is that the position in which he is being utilized - his frame is not the biggest. 

"So, obviously he will always get a lot of combat with his opponents because he is playing as a number 10, so most of the time he is got his back against his opponent."

Mkhuma is a talented player, who is blessed with an educated left-foot having been nurtured in the Sundowns academy, before being promoted to the first team by former Masandawana coach Pitso Mosimane last season.

Having played for Chiefs and Orlando Pirates as a right-back during his playing days, Tau also believes that Mkhuma will benefit from playing as a number 10. 

"I think to protect him slightly would be to move him and play him as an inverted winger or as a number eight where then he doesn't really have a direct impact every time he gets to receive the ball," he explained. 

"Because you could see they kept bumping him off the ball but which is good because he is learning to play in tight spaces, which is something that I think a lot of players would want to get thrown in the deep end, so that you are able to cope with the pressure." 

Mkhuma, who is a former South Africa under-20 international, has made 12 appearances across all competitions for Sundowns this season and he is yet to score nor assist thus far. 

 

 

 

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

Lookman scores, Zambo Anguissa bags assist in Fulham loss to Manchester United

That's all from us today folks, we hope you enjoyed the game!

PSG are now three points behind the leaders Lille, with just two games remaining, so they need their opponents to slip up in the title race. They face Reims next time out in Ligue 1, however, they will turn their attentions to the Coupe de France in midweek, as they face Montpellier in the final. Meanwhile Rennes remain seventh and they travel to Monaco next weekend.

PSG miss out on the chance to close the gap on Lille to just one point, after a 1-1 draw with Rennes. They led 1-0 at the break, after a stoppage time penalty from Neymar, but they struggled in the second half and Rennes had numerous chances in front of goal, forcing Navas to make some excellent saves to deny them. The hosts eventually got their reward after 70 minutes, when Guirassy powered a header towards goal from a corner and it cannoned off the post and went in. It got worse for PSG late on, as Kimpembe was shown a straight red on 87 minutes and they played the remainder of the game with 10-men.

90' + 5' FULL-TIME: RENNES 1-1 PSG

90' + 1' SAVE! Another stop by Navas to deny Rennes a late winner! They are constantly trying to bend the ball into the bottom right corner of the net and Tait went very close then, getting plenty of pace on the shot and Navas had to dive across and make the save.

90' There will be a minimum of four minutes added time played at the end of the second half.

85' Decent effort! Guirassy tries to curl the ball into the bottom right corner of the net from the edge of the box, but it doesn't quite have enough pace on it to beat Navas, who gets across and makes the save.

84' There's only six minutes, plus any stoppage time to be added on left to play here, can either side nick a winner late on?

82' Prior to this game Rennes had won 54 points after 35 Ligue 1 games this season, their highest tally at this stage since 2011/12 (57 points, finishing 6th at the end of the season).

78' Stoppage in play here as Tait is down receiving some medical treatment after a foul by Rafinha, but he should be fine to continue shortly.

76' Still no signs of a PSG comeback, they are yet to really test Gomis in the second half, with the keeper not really involved much, which just shows how well the hosts have played.

74' The hosts have deserved their goal, it has been coming in the second half, with PSG unable to cope at the back at times. Now they need to push on, but they look short of ideas in the final third.

72' Let's see if the PSG changes can make any difference to the game now, they have less than 20 minutes remaining to try and get another goal and clinch all three points.

67' SAVE! Tait does really well to get away from a couple of PSG defenders and cut inside from the left, onto his right foot and curl an effort towards the bottom right corner of the goal. It just seems to be sneaking in, but Navas gets across and makes a brilliant save, pushing it around the post.

65' PSG have won 13 of their last 17 games in the top-flight (L4), including each of their last four, their longest such run since September-November 2020 (8).

63' PSG have managed to settle the game down now, they are seeing more of the ball and Rennes aren't attacking as regularly at the moment.

61' Not too far away! Kean tries to curl the ball into the top right corner of the net from the edge of the box, but he gets slightly too much on it and it flies just over the bar.

59' Kean has hardly touched the ball in the second half for PSG, it might be time for Pochettino to look to his bench and perhaps bring Icardi on to try and push for a second goal.

56' Decent effort! Draxler does brilliantly to control the ball, keep it in the air and then turn and volley an effort towards goal, however, his shot flies wide of the Rennes net.

54' PSG haven't really got going in this second half so far, they are struggling to keep the ball and Rennes are on top, keeping the visitors penned back inside their own half.

52' Blocked! Rennes are throwing everything at PSG at the moment, they are camped inside their half. They work it well in the final third, playing it around the box, before it falls to Maouassa to the left and he drills an effort towards the near post, but Dagba gets across and makes a good block to send it behind for a corner.

51' PSG have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven Ligue 1 games (10 goals conceded overall), their longest run since April-May 2019 (also 7). They haven’t registered a longer such run in the top-flight since February-April 2012 (11).

49' It will be interesting to see how Rennes react to being a goal down, after it looked like they would go in level at the break. A second PSG goal should settle any nerves that they have.

47' Good chance! Rennes break forward quickly and Doku skips past Kurzawa down the right and then fires a low shot towards goal from a tight angle. However, his effort is too close to Navas, who makes a comfortable save.

46' The second half is under way!

A win is vital for PSG today as they try to close the gap on Lille at the top of Ligue 1, so they will want to push on in the second half and get another goal to make it more comfortable, as Rennes have grown into the game and look dangerous themselves on the counter.

PSG lead 1-0 at the break, thanks to Neymar’s penalty in stoppage time, after a lengthy delay as the officials reviewed the challenge by Aguerd on Kurzawa in the box. The Rennes man caught the left-back late as he fired a shot towards goal and Neymar took advantage from the spot. They could be further ahead, but Herrera spurned two superb opportunities. Rennes had a goal ruled out for offside, after Guirassy’s strike was defected into the back of the net by Doku, but the flag was correctly raised. Kean then thought he had sent PSG ahead just before the break, but the ball had already crossed the goal-line, so it didn’t count.

45' + 7' HALF-TIME: RENNES 0-1 PSG

45' + 4' PSG PENALTY! The referee has reviewed the footage and PSG have been awarded a penalty, following Aguerd's late challenge on Kurzawa. There is a big hole in the sock of the left-back, showing how high he was caught on his leg. The Rennes players are furious with the decision.

45' + 3' The officials are checking the challenge on Kurzawa by Aguerd, as the centre-back does seem to catch the left-back late as the PSG man fired an effort towards goal. It was high on his leg as well, which has caused the injury.

45' + 2' Stoppage in play here as Kurzawa goes down with an injury after a challenge by Aguerd and the PSG left-back seems to be in a bit of pain, but he should be fine to continue.

45' There will be a minimum of one minute added time played at the end of the first half.

43' He should be doing better! Neymar manages to find some time and space on the edge of the penalty area, but he drills his effort high over the crossbar.

41' There isn’t long left to play before the end of the first half, can either side break the deadlock before the half-time whistle?

39' GOAL RULED OUT! PSG now have the ball in the back of the net, but it is once again ruled out! Dagba races down the right wing and Di Maria plays it through to him, with the right-back chipping it into the six-yard box for Kean to head home from close range. However, the ball had just gone out of play, so Rennes are awarded a goal-kick.

37' The hosts have grown into the game as it has gone on and they are now starting to push PSG back, with the visitors not quite having the same amount of dominance as they did in the opening 25 minutes or so.

35' PSG look vulnerable at the back on the counter-attack, with Rennes pushing players forward and quickly, which is catching the visitors out.

33' We’re past the half an hour mark now and it remains goalless between Rennes and PSG, but it is the visitors who have look more dangerous so far, with Herrera and Neymar both going close to opening the scoring.

31' PENALTY SHOUT! Doku races past Kurzawa down the right and gets into the penalty area, before a slight collision between the two players and the Rennes striker goes down appealing for a spot-kick. However, the referee waves away his appeals.

30' VAR have just taken a quick look at the disallowed Rennes goal, just making sure that Doku was offside and the replays show that he was just in an offside position, so the decision stands.

29' GOAL RULED OUT! Rennes break forward on the counter and the ball eventually falls to Guirassy, who tries to curl an effort towards goal, but instead it strikes the chest of his team-mate Doku and he powers it into the back of the net. However, the offside flag goes up straight away and the goal is ruled out.

28' A win for PSG is vital in their quest to become Ligue 1 Champions once again, as Lille are not in action this weekend, so they have the opportunity to close the gap to just one-point.

26' PSG have won their last six Ligue 1 away games, the best current run in the competition. They could win seven consecutive Ligue 1 games on the road for the first time since January-April 2017 (8).

24' Good strike! Di Maria cuts inside from the right wing and drills a low shot towards the bottom right corner of the net, however, there isn't enough pace on it to beat Gomis and the keeper makes a good save.

22' Not too far away! Rennes break forward on the counter and Doku plays a good through ball to Terrier, who races in behind the PSG defence. However, he just can't reach it in time and Navas gathers.

20' There might be an issue for Neymar here as he is down after a challenge by Da Silva, with the Rennes defender catching him late. However, the referee decides that he doesn't require medical treatment and he will be fine to continue.

19' Despite a positive start by Rennes, they are starting to struggle at the back, with PSG creating more and more chances in front of goal and they probably should be ahead by now.

17' ANOTHER CHANCE! This time it falls to Neymar, after a quick counter by the visitors and Di Maria runs at the Rennes defence, before playing it out to Neymar to his left, who cuts inside and then drills a shot towards the near post, but he drags it narrowly wide of the post.

17' SAVE! Another opportunity for Herrera! Neymar whips a cross into the penalty area, which isn't dealt with by Rennes and Di Maria flicks it back to Herrera on the edge of the box, who drills a low strike towards the bottom left corner. However, Gomis gets down quickly and makes a superb save. 

15' Awful effort! Maouassa steps up to take a free-kick which is in a good shooting position around 30 yards out, but he gets it all wrong and his effort flies well wide of the PSG goal. Terrible strike.

14' Free-kick to Rennes in a decent position around 30 yards out. after Kimpembe dives into a challenge with Tait and catches the midfielder on the foot. The referee gives the PSG man a warning as well.

12' Decent effort! Doku cuts inside from the left wing and tries to curl an effort towards goal, however, it is too close to Navas and the PSG keeper makes a comfortable save.

11' CHANCE! Herrera with a great opportunity to send PSG ahead! It comes after some great link-up play between Di Maria and Kurzawa down the left, playing a quick one-two and the left-back then got to the byline, before drilling a cross back into the middle for Herrera to run onto. However, the midfielder can only drag his effort narrowly wide of the post.

10' Rennes have lost 12 of their last 17 Ligue 1 games against Paris (W4 D1), after losing none of their previous 10 (W7 D3).

8' This is better from the visitors, they are currently camped inside the Rennes half of the pitch, trying to get into the final third. However, they just seem to be lacking the final ball at the moment.

6' Rennes fail to deal with a cross in from the left wing, with their clearance falling straight to Kean in the middle of the box, but it comes at him quickly and he fires his effort high over the goal.

4' PSG with some early possession now, but the hosts seem to be doing a good job of keeping them away from their final third. Rennes look very lively and seem to be trying to break forward on the counter.

2' CLOSE! Rennes with an opportunity in the opening few minutes! They work it well down the left wing and Tait manages to feed Doku in the penalty area, who fools Marquinhos and then drills an effort towards the near post. However, it flies just wide of the post. He should have been hitting the target from there.

1' We're under way!

The teams are out on the pitch and kick-off is just a few minutes away, stay tuned for all the match action!

Meanwhile Mauricio Pochettino has made five changes to his side that were beaten in midweek by Manchester City, with Florenzi, Diallo, Paredes, Marco Veratti and Icardi all dropping out and they have been replaced by Dagba, Kurzawa, Danilo, Draxler and Kean.

The hosts have made three changes to their starting line-up, with Dalbert, Eduardo Camavinga and Steven N’Zonzi all missing out, the latter through suspension following his red card last time out. They have been replaced by Maouassa, Ugochukwu and Guirassy.

PSG SUBS: Mauro Icardi, Leandro Paredes, Abdou Diallo, Idrissa Gueye, Mitchel Bakker, Alessandro Florenzi, Rafinha, Pablo Sarabia, Sergio Rico.

PSG (4-2-3-1): Keylor Navas; Colin Dagba, Marquinhos, Presnel Kimpembe, Layvin Kurzawa; Danilo, Ander Herrera; Angel Di Maria, Julian Draxler, Neymar; Moise Kean.

RENNES SUBS: James Lea Siliki, Clement Grenier, Brandon Soppy, Gerzino Nyamsi, Matthis Abline, Andy Diouf, Romain Del Castillo, Dalbert, Romain Salin.

RENNES (4-3-3): Alfred Gomis; Hamari Traore, Nayef Aguerd, Damien Da Silva, Faitout Maouassa; Benjamin Bourigeaud, Chimuanya Ugochukwu, Flavien Tait; Jeremy Doku, Serhou Guirassy, Martin Terrier.

Meanwhile Rennes suffered a blow in their hopes of qualifying for Europe next season, as they suffered a 1-0 defeat against Bordeaux, their first loss in six games. This leaves them seventh in the table. 

PSG need a victory today to keep up with Lille at the top of the table, who are currently four points ahead of them. However, today is PSG’s game in hand, as Lille aren’t in action this weekend. The visitors are currently on a four-game winning streak in Ligue 1, but they will be looking to bounce back from their Champions League semi-final defeat in midweek against Manchester City.

Hello and welcome to our LIVE match commentary of the Ligue 1 clash between Rennes and Paris Saint-Germain at Roazhon Park.

LIVE: Real Madrid vs Sevilla

We hope you've enjoyed our live coverage. Until next time, goodbye!

Both teams are back in action in midweek. Real travel to Granada, while Sevilla host Valencia.

Eden Hazard's stoppage-time equaliser rescued a point for Real Madrid, who missed the chance to go top of La Liga after Sevilla held them to a 2-2 draw. The visitors took a first-half lead through Fernando, but substitute Marco Asensio equalised midway through the second period. Ivan Rakitic put Sevilla back in front from the penalty spot with nine minutes remaining but deep into stoppage time, Hazard deflected home Toni Kroos' low shot to ensure a share of the spoils.

90' + 7' FULL-TIME: REAL MADRID 2-2 SEVILLA

90' + 6' JUST WIDE! Real almost snatch it at the death as the ball is teed up for Casemiro to strike. The Brazilian goes for precision as he looks for the far corner, but it drifts just wide of the target.

90' + 3' Real have the ball but need to get it forward as the clock ticks down. At the moment, they are unable to find a way through the blanket of red shirts.

90' + 1' We are into the first of six additional minutes at the end of this game. Can Sevilla hold on, or will Real grab a dramatic equaliser?

90' Remember, Real are unbeaten in La Liga since the end of January. But unless they can find an equaliser in stoppage-time, that run will end here.

87' As things stand, former Barcelona midfielder Rakitic is going to deny Real the opportunity to go top of La Liga, while keeping his old club in the hunt for the title.

81' Almost a chance for Hazard immediately after his introduction. A dangerous Real attack sees Benzema play the ball into the Belgian, whose first touch lets him down and the opportunity goes begging.

77' PENALTY TO SEVILLA! Unbelievable drama here! Prior to the Benzema penalty incident, a Sevilla corner struck the arm of Militao. Play went on at the time but following a consultation with his pitchside monitor, the referee awards the visitors a spot-kick.

75' PENALTY TO REAL! The hosts hit Sevilla on the counter as Benzema races away and is brought down after rounding Bono. The referee points to the spot, but we're going to VAR following an earlier incident...

73' Benzema demonstrates great strength to hold the ball up on the edge of the box before feeding Valverde, who shoots straight at the goalkeeper.

71' The hosts definitely have the momentum and a big spring in their step after levelling this contest. Can Sevilla weather the storm?

69' They have been knocking at the door, but Real finally have their equaliser. Can they now go on and complete the turnaround?

65' CHANCE! Following a patient build-up from a corner, Modric's cleverly lofted ball is cushioned across the area by Kroos. Vinicius arrives, but is unable to direct it towards goal.

63' Always a threat going forward, Casemiro must tread carefully. Of course, he is already on a yellow card from the first half.

61' Another opportunity comes and goes for Real. This time, Casemiro shoots from the edge of the area, but it is well wide of the target.

59' Nacho goes for the spectacular with an ambitious long-range attempt. However, it is always rising and not causing Bono any problems.

58' Real continue to apply the pressure as we approach the hour mark. Should they persist, you feel it is only a matter of time before the equaliser arrives.

54' Sevilla must maintain their focus. The visitors have continually dealt with Real's threats so far in this second half, but cannot afford to sit back too much.

52' The hosts go in search of the equaliser and Modric's low drive is tipped behind for a corner by Bono. The subsequent delivery is only cleared as far as Marcelo, who blazes over from outside the box.

49' Remember, Real will go top of La Liga with a victory today. But they must come from behind in order to do so.

47' Not far off! Sevilla go straight onto the attack and Acuna cleverly turns before unleashing a low shot that flashes wide of the far post.

46' Sevilla get the ball rolling once again in the second half.

Despite the deficit, Real have looked threatening and created opportunities to score. But they must look to be more clinical after the break.

Fernando's goal has given Sevilla a half-time lead against Real Madrid, who earlier saw a Karim Benzema header ruled out by VAR. As things stand, the visitors are on course for their first away league win over Los Blancos since December 2008.

45' + 1' HALF-TIME: REAL MADRID 0-1 SEVILLA

44' The resulting free-kick is floated into the box and met by the head of Kounde, but the central defender can only direct the ball straight into the arms of Courtois.

43' Sevilla are awarded a free-kick near the corner flag after Marcelo catches Navas late. This is a good opportunity for the visitors to potentially double their lead before the break.

41' Good effort! Kroos cleverly skips away from a couple of challenges before laying the ball off for Casemiro to shoot from distance. The Brazilian whips his effort towards goal, but it is just wide of the target.

39' Real look to get in behind the Sevilla defence, but an attempted through ball lacks the required accuracy and trickles aimlessly behind for a goal kick.

37' Sevilla boss Lopetegui also has an old score to settle against his former employers. The former Spain manager lasted just 14 matches in charge of Real at the start of the 2018-19 season; losing his job following a humbling 5-1 defeat at the hands of Barcelona.

35' Although Real have enjoyed most of the possession since falling behind, Sevilla are continuing to look assured in defence. However, there is still a long way to go and they must maintain their concentration levels.

33' Of course, Sevilla keeper Bono shares his name with the lead singer of the rock band U2. It has been a beautiful day for the visitors so far, while Real still haven't found what they're looking for.

31' Good attempt! Receiving the ball to feet in the area, space opens for Benzema to get an early shot away in an attempt to catch Bono out. But the Sevilla goalkeeper is alert and pushes it over the bar.

29' Vinicius goes in search of the equaliser as he cuts inside from the left and looks for the far corner with a bending effort. But his shot is lacking the required dip and is way over the bar.

27' Casemiro has enjoyed plenty of success against Sevilla in recent times. In fact, the Brazilian has scored three times in the last four meetings between the sides, including a double in a 2-1 win for Real last season.

25' Real seek an immediate response and Vinicius and Casemiro combine with the latter pulling the trigger from just outside the area. But his shot is straight into the grateful arms of Bono.

24' Of course, Sevilla suffered a last-gasp defeat against Athletic Bilbao last weekend. But it is worth noting that before that, they had won five consecutive games to blast themselves into the La Liga title race.

19' Suso tries his luck after cutting in from the right wing and unleashing a long-range left-footed strike. However, it is always rising and never troubling Courtois.

17' Benzema has enjoyed another prolific season with Los Blancos. The Frenchman has scored 21 times in La Liga, with his tally only bettered by a certain Lionel Messi.

15' It was a tight call, but certainly the right call as Benzema is denied the opening goal of the game. Odriozola was only a fraction offside when receiving the ball, but offside nevertheless.

13' NO GOAL! Replays show that Odriozola was marginally offside when receiving the ball before crossing for Benzema. Following a consultation with VAR, the goal is rightly chalked off.

12' BENZEMA!!! The Frenchman peels away from his marker at the far post to meet Odriozola's cross, before firmly planting his header beyond the dive of Bono. But wait, we're going to VAR...

11' It was also in 2008 that Real last secured back-to-back La Liga titles. Maximum points from their remaining four games would see them complete a successful defence of their crown this season.

9' You must go back to December 2008 for the last time that Sevilla won away at Real Madrid in La Liga. Can they end their wait for success today?

7' Good pressure from the visitors culminates in them forcing a corner. However, the Real defence stands firm and clears.

5' Four years into his second spell with Sevilla, Navas has racked up well over 550 appearances for Los Nervionenses in all competitions. Now 35 years of age, he has enjoyed a decorated career; winning the World Cup, European Championship and the English Premier League, as well as three Europa League titles.

3' An early chance for Vinicius to threaten the Sevilla goal. But Navas tracks him all the way and the visitors eventually snuff out the danger.

1' The referee blows his whistle and Real get the match underway.

The teams are out and kick-off is imminent.

Although it promises to be a close encounter, Real are the favourites for it. They have won each of the last four meetings between the sides, including a 1-0 victory in this season's reverse fixture.

As for Sevilla, Julen Lopetegui makes just a single alteration from last weekend's defeat by Athletic Bilbao. Joan Jordan shakes off a toe injury to replace Youssef En-Nesyri in midfield, while the doubtful Jules Kounde is also fit to start.

Zinedine Zidane makes three changes to the Real Madrid side that were knocked out of the Champions League by Chelsea in midweek. Marcelo and Alvaro Odriozola return at full-backs, while Federico Valverde is also in from the start. Eden Hazard drops the bench as Sergio Ramos and Ferland Mendy miss out.

SUBS: Tomas Vaclik, Luuk de Jong, Youssef En-Nesyri, Karim Rekik, Oscar Rodriguez, Aleix Vidal, Franco Vazquez, Nemanja Gudelj, Sergi Gomez, Sergio Escudero, Oliver Torres, Javi Diaz.

SEVILLA (4-3-3): Bono; Jesus Navas, Jules Kounde, Diego Carlos, Marcos Acuna; Ivan Rakitic, Fernando, Joan Jordan; Suso, Lucas Ocampos, Papu Gomez.

SUBS: Andriy Lunin, Mariano, Antonio Blanco, Isco, Eden Hazard, Rodrygo, Miguel Gutierrez, Marco Asensio, Diego Altube.

REAL MADRID (4-3-3): Thibaut Courtois; Alvaro Odriozola, Eder Militao, Nacho, Marcelo; Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos; Federico Valverde, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior.

Following Atletico Madrid's draw with Barcelona on Saturday, Real will go top of the table with victory here. Meanwhile, Sevilla still have an outside shot at the title, but would need a lot of other results to go their way.

Hello and welcome to live text coverage of the La Liga clash between Real Madrid and Sevilla at Estadio Alfredo di Stefano.


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