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Toni Freixa will not be looking to take Neymar back to Barcelona if he emerges successful in presidential elections at Camp Nou, with the Paris Saint-Germain forward told he is “not even among the 30 best players in Europe right now”.

The Brazil international on the books at Parc des Princes considered by many to be one of the finest players on the planet.

Freixa, though, is clearly not a fan and has been quick to state that he will not be wasting any time pursuing a deal that ousted Blaugrana supremo Josep Maria Bartomeu was so keen to pull off.

He has told Cadena SER: “Neymar, because of his performance, is not even among the 30 best players in Europe right now. If I were president, I would not sign him.”

Freixa was eager to point out to those in Catalunya that their club is bigger than any one player: “The most important thing about Barcelona is Barcelona itself. We do not depend on anyone.”

Neymar clearly plays no part in the future thinking of one man hoping to take control of the boardroom at Camp Nou, with speculation regarding a return to Barcelona starting to wind down.

A retracing of steps to Spain for the Brazil international has been mooted ever since a record-breaking €222 million (£200m/$262m) transfer to PSG was completed in the summer of 2017.

Neymar, who has also sparked talk of interest from Real Madrid, was said to be keen on making a move away from France at one stage. He is, however, now into a fourth season at Parc des Princes and has delivered 73 goals in 93 appearances.

With exit rumours starting to fade, and PSG reluctant to part with any of their most prized assets, it has been reported that Neymar could commit to a new contract that takes him beyond the end of his current deal in 2022.

PSG sporting director Leonardo has confirmed the club have started negotiations to extend the contracts of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

He told the club website: “Remember that PSG suffered financial losses this year, we’re in a complicated moment and it’s not easy, but we’re talking directly with Mbappe and Neymar. There is a question of timing. The idea of an extension exists. We have arrived at the moment when we must have clearer situations.”

Stellenbosch forward Waseem Isaacs says they will not be placing much emphasis on Mamelodi Sundowns’ strengths but on their own capabilities when the two sides meet in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.

The Western Cape side faces a Downs side that is in impressive form and unbeaten in this league campaign with three wins and a draw.

This is in contrast to Stellenbosch who won their first match of the season last weekend when they beat Chippa United 2-0, having recorded a defeat and two draws in their previous matches.

While the Brazilians are the league’s highest-scoring side with nine goals from four games, Isaacs said they would exploit their opponents’ weaknesses after Sundowns’ defensive frailties were exposed in the 4-3 victory over AmaZulu last Sunday.

“I think we can only get better from now until the end of the season. Sundowns are always a difficult team to play against,” Isaacs told Sowetan Live.

“They are the defending champions. But if we play the way we played at the weekend and do the right thing on the field, I think it could be a good game. We will look at their weaknesses, but our main focus should be how we want to play. We want to execute our plan. That's the most important thing for us, not to focus too much on what they can do but on what we can do.

“I think we can match them. We have built a good squad. Sundowns have young guys and experienced players, but we also have a good blend of experience and young players. So I think the make-up of the squad is good, and there is no reason why we can’t give them a good game.”

Downs are placed second on the PSL standings while Stellenbosch are ninth with each team having played four league matches.

Isaacs himself has featured in three games and is yet to score a goal after finishing with eight goals last term which was his debut PSL season.

Kerala Blasters will be looking for their first win when they face NorthEast United, who last defeated a 10-man Mumbai City, in the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim, on Thursday. 

TV CHANNELS & LIVE STREAM

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

Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

TEAM NEWS

Kerala Blasters Possible XI:   

Injured - None
Doubtful - Rahul KP   
Suspended - None  

Key Players - Gary Hooper, Sahal Samad  
 

NorthEast United Possible XI: 

Injured - None  
Doubtful - None   
Suspended - None

Key Players - Kwesi Appiah, Luis Machado   

East Bengal are set to start their maiden Indian Super League (ISL) campaign as they host cross-city rivals ATK Mohun Bagan at the Tilak Maida in Vasco, Goa, on Friday evening. 

TV CHANNELS & LIVE STREAM

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

Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

TEAM NEWS

East Bengal Possible XI:   

Injured - None
Doubtful - None  
Suspended - None  

Key Players - Anthony Pilkington, Scott Neville  
 

ATK Mohun Bagan Possible XI: 

Injured - Jobby Justin, Michael Soosairaj   
Doubtful -  None
Suspended - None

Key Players - Roy Krishna, Sandesh Jhingan

MATCH PREVIEW

Robbie Fowler will taste the Kolkata derby experience in his first match in charge of East Bengal, as the Red and Golds are also set to embark on their maiden journey in the ISL.

Training under the Englishman, who had his last managerial stint at A-League side Brisbane Roar, the newbies have made some interesting signings such as Irish winger Anthony Pilkington, Scottish defender Danny Fox and Australian stopper Scott Neville (on loan from Brisbane Roar) among the foreign players.

Among Indians players, too, the club made quite a few notable picks such as Balwant Singh (ATK), Eugeneson Lyngdoh (Bengaluru), Narayan Das (Odisha) and Jeje Lalpekhlua (Chennaiyin). However, the team could look rusty given this is their opening game and their goalkeeping contingent does not inspire confidence. Fowler is set to choose between Sankar Roy, Debjit Majumder and Mirshad Michu.

East Bengal's attack looks a bit lightweight. Balwant Singh didn't have the best of seasons at ATK having scored just a single goal. Jeje Lalpekhlua is coming from a long injury lay off with Girik Khosla too has struggled to make a mark.

Aaron Holloway is the sole foreign recruit who is an out and out striker but he isn't necessarily known for being prolific. The likes of Pilkington and Jacques Maghoma could play a crucial role here. 

ATK Mohun Bagan started their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters in their opener, although most of the proceedings in the game were dictated by the Blasters.

The Green and Maroons looked more like ATK than Mohun Bagan in their first ISL match, as coach Antonio Habas set them up to nullify the Blasters threat - and they did it really well. Roy Krishna missed an easy chance to break the deadlock from a corner-kick within the first few minutes but scored a perfect poacher's goal in the second half to ensure three points.

Habas' men are known to adopt a pragmatic approach by sitting deep and absorb the pressure. However, especially after having played a game as compared to their rivals, it could be a change of tactics given the kind of threat the Mariners possess with Edu Garcia partnering Krishna as effectively as one would like in the attacking third. David Williams' inclusion in the last game also looked promising, as the Australian kept the opponents on their toes.

An expected change in the line-up of ATK Mohun Bagan could be the entry of Subhasish Bose in place of Michael Soosairaj who suffered a serious injury in the previous game. 

East Bengal’s most successful coach of the last decade, Trevor James Morgan is no stranger to a Kolkata derby as he had led the Red and Golds to several memorable derby triumphs in the past.

Morgan won nine trophies with the Kolkata giants in four seasons and is still a favourite among a vast section of East Bengal fans.

Ahead of the East Bengal’s debut in the Indian Super League (ISL) on November 27 against arch-rivals ATK Mohun Bagan, Morgan sounded cautious when asked about the opening fixture of his former club.

“Yes it will be difficult,” the British coach told Goal. “Mohun Bagan have a settled squad and have been together for a while. They know each other's game and will be difficult opposition for East Bengal.”

Quite a few players from the current East Bengal lot have played under Trevor Morgan and the coach believes that the players need to watchful of their opponents as ISL is a different ball game compared to the I-League

“I know some of the players from the East Bengal squad but this is not the I League and the East Bengal players may not be too familiar with many of the ISL foreigners and will have to learn quickly how to nullify the opposition strengths and get their own game in order,” said the former Kerala Blasters assistant coach.

The British coach believes that while his compatriot Robbie Fowler is a player of great repute, coaching a club is a completely different challenge. But he also suggested that if the Liverpool great manages to convey his messages to his players properly, the Kolkata club will be the team to beat in the ISL this season.

“Playing and then coaching are two different things completely. Robbie (Fowler) has had an outstanding career as a player and enjoyed a good spell here in Australia with Brisbane (Roar) and I'm sure if he can get his points across to the players and they understand their roles within the team, East Bengal will be very difficult to play against.”

Morgan, who is currently in charge of the Filipino club United City, reminisced his fondest memories from the famous derby and also revealed the match he holds close to his heart.

“Obviously winning the Federation Cup in my first season and beating Mohun Bagan in the final was a great start for me in India. Running that very close was an absolutely outstanding performance by us to win the Calcutta Football League (CFL) by beating Mohun Bagan 3-2. We were great that day and although the score was close, we were superior all over the pitch on the night.”

Finally, he wished the millions of East Bengal fans the very best ahead of the club’s new journey in the ISL, “I wish every East Bengal fan good luck and hope the future is full of success for them and the team,” said the former Hull City youth coach.

Pritam Kotal is one of the most experienced Kolkata Derby campaigners in the current ATK Mohun Bagan squad. He hails from Kolkata and from his childhood he has grown up witnessing the razzmatazz that involves the boro match (big match) of Kolkata Maidan. 

As a kid, his father Shiburam Kotal used to take him to the Salt Lake Stadium to watch this classic rivalry. And whenever a certain Jose Ramirez Barreto would run towards the corner flag in a Lionel Messi-esque celebration with the arms pointing towards the heavens after scoring against the Red and Golds, his joy would know no bounds. 

Like every aspiring Bengali footballer, he had a dream; it was to don the Green and Maroon jersey and participate in a derby. Now as one of the five captains of Bagan, there is a possibility that he might lead his team on the pitch on Friday evening, a feat he is yet to achieve in spite of playing five seasons at Mohun Bagan. 

"I am pretty excited to come back. Previously I had played for both ATK and Mohun Bagan (simultaneously) when the I-League and ISL (Indian Super League) were held one after the other. Bagan fans love me a lot. I have a different sentiment and emotion towards the maroon and green jersey. I have won the I-League and Federation Cup wearing that jersey. I'm really happy to wear the same colours once again," expressed the India international in a chat with Goal. 

Growing up in Uttarpara, a Mohun Bagan bastion, he understands the passion and emotions of the supporters better than most of his teammates. The fans are one of the most important elements of this fixture and although the match will be played in an empty stadium due to the ongoing pandemic, he knows that back in Kolkata the excitement levels will go through the roof. 

"The fans are extra motivation. Mohun Bagan fans are spread across the world. When we used to play in Bengaluru, there were so many supporters we could not understand whose home match it was. We wish to take the club to a different level and be successful on the continental stage." 

Kotal is brimming with confidence after winning the opener against Kerala Blasters. He had a decent outing and hardly put a step wrong in the match. He feels that getting off to a winning start has helped them gain more confidence and now wants to make the most of the momentum going into the all-important fixture. 

"We will definitely be a bit ahead mentally in Friday's derby after winning the Kerala match. We were the champions last year. So we have to play like champions, that's what I am telling everyone."

The 27-year old has participated in many such encounters and his most memorable clash remains the one where the Mariners won 2-1 in Siliguri, a hotspot for East Bengal fans. It was in this match that Sony Norde scored a stunning free-kick and did the 'sten gun' celebration which is a rage amongst fans even today. 

"The derby win in Siliguri will always be special. The East Bengal fans were in overwhelming numbers that day. Yet we won the match convincingly. We silenced them and it was altogether a different kind of feeling. 

"(But) I will never forget the experience of playing my first derby. The roar of the fans while getting out of the tunnel at the Salt Lake stadium is surreal. Always wanted to play in a derby since childhood. A dream got fulfilled that day."

Kotal is confident that they have it in them to beat Robbie Fowler's men in this season's first derby. Also, there's little doubt that Antonio Habas' men are on a high after getting the better of Blasters. They look favourites on paper. But history has shown us on many occasions that the underdogs have gone on to bag the bragging rights, with the favourites biting the dust. 

Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, mourned the death of legendary footballer Diego Maradona, taking to social media to express his grief on Thursday morning. 

The Argentine football legend passed away at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack. The World Cup winner had been hospitalised at the start of November, days after celebrating the landmark birthday, after complaining of low spirits and fatigue but was subsequently released after successful surgery to remove a blood clot in his brain. 

Modi, called Maradona, a maestro of football and grieved his 'untimely demise'. 

He continued his recovery as an outpatient from his dwelling in a private neighbourhood near Tigre, northern Buenos Aires. But on Wednesday morning he suffered cardiac arrest, and paramedics at the scene failed to revive him. 

Maradona began his professional career with Argentinos Juniors at the age of 16 and went on to be considered one of the greatest players ever to step onto a football field. 

The diminutive left-footed forward went on to represent Boca Juniors, Barcelona, Napoli, Sevilla and Newell's Old Boys as a player, and the likes of Racing Club, Dorados, Gimnasia and the Argentina national team later as a coach. 

It was with the Albiceleste, though, that his name was immortalised. 

Maradona was instrumental in taking Argentina to their second World Cup triumph in 1986, captaining the team that prevailed over West Germany in the final under the stewardship of Carlos Bilardo. 

Maradona had enormous following in India as well. He visited the country on multiple occasions and each time received a rousing welcome from the fans. He came to Kolkata in 2008 and returned to the City of Joy once again in 2017. Meanwhile, in 2012 he visited Kerala's Kannur to honour the invitation of his friend Boby Chemmannur, a businessman. 

Zaidu Sanusi opened the scoring for Porto with his first Champions League goal in their 2-0 victory over Marseille on Wednesday.

The Nigeria left-back broke the deadlock in the 39th minute after pouncing on a rebound which came from a corner-kick.

Sanusi was in action for 90 minutes and he produced a man-of-the-match display as Porto sent Marseille packing from the Champions League.

The 23-year-old's strike at the Orange Velodrome was his first goal for the Dragons since he completed a permanent switch from league rivals Santa Clara in the summer.

“We got three important points and congratulations to the whole team. It is a very important goal in my career, my first in the Champions League,” Sanusi said at the end of the game.

Later in the second half, both teams were reduced to 10 men and Sergio Oliveira doubled the visitors' lead from the penalty spot.

Mali striker Moussa Marega saw 79 minutes of action for Porto while Senegal's Mamadou Loum was introduced for Oliveira on the stroke of full-time.

The Portuguese giants are second in Group C with nine points after four games, behind leaders Manchester City while Marseille languish at the bottom of the table with no point.

Next up for Porto in the Champions League is a home game against Manchester City on December 1, but they visit Sanusi's former club Santa Clara for their Primeira Liga fixture on Saturday.

Serge Aurier believes it is too early for Premier League title discussions but added Tottenham Hotspur deserve to be at the top of the table.

The Ivorian defender produced a solid performance on Saturday as Spurs overtook Leicester City at the summit of the league with a 2-0 win over Manchester City.

The victory brought them level on 20 points with reigning champions Liverpool but they have a superior goal difference.

While they aim for their first league success since 1961, Aurier has warned his teammates not to get carried away by their impressive eight-game unbeaten run in the Premier League.

"The objective is to try to stay there for as long as possible. We are very happy about what is going on and our position because we deserve to be top of the table," Aurier said, as per ESPN.

"And I can't forget that we dropped some points stupidly at home against West Ham or Newcastle.

"However, I think it is too early to think about the title. We can't rush anything. A couple of weeks ago, Southampton were top of the table and then it was Leicester. Now it is us.

"We are trying to do better than last season. We didn't start well in the last campaign. It is much better already this season.

"We just want to be in the conversation and we are. We have big games coming up and we want more results like against Manchester City and we will continue to fight for the challenges to come."

Tottenham are one of the highest-scoring clubs in the Premier League this season with Harry Kane having a tally of seven goals and nine assists while Heung-Min Son has scored nine goals with two assists in nine games.

Aurier is full of praise for the quality in Spurs' attack and he stated all the departments are working as a team.

"Offensively, we have players in great form who are working hard, are making the efforts defensively for the team as well," he added.

"For now, we are together, we work together, we win together and one day we will lose together but we will have to stay united.

"Like I said, I am not a dreamer but I would like to dream that at the end of the season we will be happy and be rewarded at last."

After Thursday's Uefa Europa League outing against Ludogorets, Tottenham Hotspur visit Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for their next Premier League fixture on Sunday.

Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer has praised up-and-coming striker Zakhele Lepasa while also conceding he's not the finished product yet.

The 23-year-old has made the most of the opportunities that have come his way due to the injury absences of Gabadinho Mhango and Tshegofatso Mabasa.

Lepasa scored in the first leg of the MTN8 semi-final win over Kaizer Chiefs and also converted a pressure penalty last weekend in Bucs' 2-1 league win over SuperSport United.

He's generally led the line well and has shown good pace, movement and has played with a fair amount of authority and confidence for a player without much top-flight experience, at one of South Africa's biggest clubs.

Lepasa, who scored the winning goal for TS Galaxy in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs, was also recently involved for the South African U23 side and scored against Saudi Arabia.

According to Zinnbauer, it has been a case of getting the player focused and in the right frame of mind.

“I had to wake him up, he was not always ready for what we want," the German was quoted as saying by the Citizen.

"But we know his quality, he works very well with the ball and without the ball. Even the penalty situation, he is the one who was fouled. It was a good combination with Nkanyiso Zungu.

“He is hot, he wants always to score and he is a player who always wants to win games. He does all of that and we are happy about this (his performance)," Zinnbauer continued. "But we need a little time for improvement from what we want in the game, but at the moment we are happy about this.”

Despite Lepasa’s good form, he now faces a big battle to keep his place in the team.

This is because Mabasa has recovered from injury and also scored against SuperSport United, an 87th-minute winner, while Mhango is also expected back very soon.

In addition, the Buccaneers have signed DR Congo striker Jean-Marc Makusu. Pirates are next in action against Baroka FC in a league encounter at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Besieged Gor Mahia Secretary-General Sam Ochola has issued a 48-hour ultimatum on chairman Ambrose Rachier to refund the club money allegedly withdrawn without consent.

Ochola, who was suspended by Rachier on Tuesday over signing the StarTimes Premier League sponsorship deal, has now claimed the chairman is at fiscal fault over recent transactions.

“As the Secretary and on half of the K’Ogalo fraternity, we demand the following from the chairman with immediate effect,” a statement by Ochola in possession of Goal, read.

“That he should learn and tolerate to work with other people who hold divergent and progressive views that help the club to develop.

“He should explain how the four different bank accounts of the club are still being run by a former official whose mandate expired upon our election.

“Making unexplained withdrawals yet the playing unit are complaining about lack of salaries, bonuses and operations grinding to a halt.

“That between September 1 and 4, cash withdrawals of up to KSh20 million were made from two Gor Mahia accounts yet as members of the Executive Committee and the Secretariat, we were not a party to.”

Ochola, who was elected in August, has further claimed Ronald Ngala is being used by Rachier in the transactions business illegally since he ceased being a Gor Mahia official.

“It is clear that the former Deputy Secretary-General [Ronald] Ngala was involved in all these transactions,” he added.

“I want to give notice to the chairman that he and Mr Ngala have 48 hours to refund Gor Mahia the full amount or be ready to face court action without reference to them.

“That the chairman withdraws his personal title deeds and house deeds attached in one of the accounts where he obtained millions of shillings for personal use in the name of Gor Mahia last year.

“That Mr Ngala, will not be co-opted as the member to the Executive Committee because of his actions to deprive the club financial progress. He is used by the chairman to operate and run the club accounts illegally.

“According to the latest audited reports, the club is in debt of over KSh120 million and this money never reached the club for any purpose. What did the chairman do with the money for the club?”

The push and pull at Gor Mahia was occasioned by the rift between the chair and the secretary over the Football Kenya Federation deal with StarTimes which the club has to ratify but has not done so yet.

Football fans all over the world are mourning the passing of one of its greatest talents; Argentinian World Cup winner Diego Maradona on 25 November 2020.

The star who was famous for his goal-scoring exploits for his country as well as for Boca Juniors, Barcelona and Napoli reportedly died at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Tigre, Buenos Aires.

Many in the footballing world remember him fondly for his prowess as well as for his antics, and Malaysia too has witnessed his magic, when he was a budding star at Argentinian champions Boca Juniors, all the way back in 1982.

As a part of their anniversary celebration, then Malaysian giants Selangor arranged a number of friendly matches against international clubs such as Switzerland's Young Boys and Grasshoppers FC, Japan's Matsushita FC, and Boca Juniors.

The Argentinian side were at the time travelling abroad for their own series of friendly matches, having recently won their 20th Metropolitano Argentine Primera División title. Maradona meanwhile was only a rising star who had just joined them the year before, although he had made his national team debut back in 1977. Also in tow was the likes of Uruguay international Ariel Krasouski and Argentina defender Oscar Ruggeri.

The encounter between the Selangor Invitation side and Boca Juniors was played at the Merdeka Stadium on 12 February 1982.

The Red Giants meanwhile featured their own stars R. Arumugam, Mokhtar Dahari, Santokh Singh, as well as invitational players such as Malaysia legend Soh Chin Ann, Thai star Piyapong Pue-on Singapore and future Singapore legend Fandi Ahmad, who received a temporary leave from his country's National Service to play in the friendly.

The inclusion of Fandi proved to be astute, when he opened the scoring in the match just three minutes in. He connected with Jamaluddin Norbit's corner kick using his head to score past goalkeeper Carlos Alberto Rodriguez, sending the 25,000 home crowd into elation.

The fans present could have been forgiven for thinking that the home team may just come away with a surprise win, judging from Selangor's dominance in the first 15 minutes. According to a report, Selangor were reportedly promised a return fixture in Argentina if they managed to produce a win against the favourites.

But then the Golden Kid turned his magic on.

In the 18th minute, he sent Carlos Cordoba through with a pass which the defender finished with an accurate drive, for the equaliser.

Just before the hour mark, Maradona took a more direct involvement to score the winner, beating Arumugam in a one-on-one situation.

Footage of the goal can be seen here:

The match ended in a 2-1 win to the visitors, and Maradona and co. soon flew off to Japan for their next friendlies.

It was perhaps just another friendly encounter for the Argentines, but Malaysian fans remember that match fondly for the fact that it featured not only the future star and World Cup winner, but also Malaysia's own goal-scoring legend and one of the best Asian strikers at the time, Mokhtar Dahari. Their photo together, taken during the pre-kickoff pennants exchange, is still famous to this day, and even more so today after news of Maradona's passing broke.

Just months after the encounter, the future legend would secure a move to Europe, signing for Spanish giants Barcelona, en route to attaining his 1986 World Cup title, more accolades and his legendary status.

His passing will be mourned by football fans all over the world, young and old, even those in Malaysia.

Other sources:

- Boca Juniors eye Fandi

- Boca Juniors lawan Jemputan Selangor XI (Januari 1982)

Diego Simeone found it difficult to accept the news of Diego Maradona's passing as he reflected on a difficult night for his Atletico Madrid side.

Maradona passed away at the age of 60 on Wednesday, his lawyer confirming he died of natural causes.

Shortly after news of Maradona's death, Atleti kicked off against Lokomotiv Moscow in the Champions League, with the Group A clash ending 0-0.

Simeone was in the Argentina squad with the Napoli legend at the 1994 World Cup, having also been a team-mate of the mercurial midfielder at Sevilla in 1992-93.

"It's hard. When they call you on the phone and tell you that Diego passed away, you think, 'Diego cannot die'," Simeone told a news conference.

"A myth is leaving us, an Argentine who transmitted all his rebellion to fight with his positive and negative things, but always going forward. The way to get excited about playing soccer was by looking at him.

"He welcomed me in a spectacular way in Seville, I was young. The moment they tell you about this situation [Maradona dying] you say, 'It can't be, he can always come out.'

"This time he could not, but he will always be with us, especially with the Argentines, he is a myth and it gives us a lot of sadness and emptiness – it cannot be. A very strong hug for his closest family and a lot of pain."

While Simeone mourned the death of his former team-mate and one of Argentina's most famous players, he also had to contend with a frustrating display from his Atleti team.

Atleti registered 20 attempts against Lokomotiv yet could not find the net – it is the most shots a team has amassed in a Champions League match this season without scoring.

The draw leaves Atleti, whose captain Koke had a goal disallowed by VAR on his club-record 100th European appearance, second on five points from four games, and they still have work to do if they are to qualify for the last 16.

"We are concerned with the Champions League, of course, we know that it has started with difficulties," Simeone added.

"These last two games we generated many chances to win them. The goal came, unfortunately it was offside."

Zinedine Zidane says Lucas Vazquez "has Real Madrid in his heart" and deserves to be offered a new contract by the club.

The Spain international has started seven games for Madrid this season but is due to be out of contract at the end of the campaign.

He played the full 90 minutes of Wednesday's 2-0 win over Inter in the Champions League and impressed with his direct attacking display.

As well as setting up substitute Rodrygo for his side's second goal, which deflected off Achraf Hakimi, adding to Eden Hazard's early penalty, Vazquez also had more shots (four) than any player on the field.

Vazquez has showed his versatility by also featuring at right-back at times and Zidane wants the 29-year-old academy product to be rewarded with fresh terms.

"He always gives everything for us. I have always valued him and what he gives to us on the pitch," Zidane told Movistar+.

"Now he is having the opportunity to show us what he is all about. He was a youth player for us and has Madrid in his heart. I'm happy for him and the team.

"He is an important player and the club knows it. I think it will happen that he will renew."

Hazard's seventh-minute penalty was his first Champions League goal since November 2017 on his fourth start of another disrupted campaign.

He got 78 minutes under his belt, having also started the 1-1 draw with Villarreal last weekend, and Zidane hopes the Belgium forward can soon find his rhythm.

"I'm happy because he's playing. He needs to play and get his football back," Zidane said. "For the good of the team, let him keep growing, because we need him."

Madrid's two goals came either side of Arturo Vidal being issued quick-fire yellow cards for dissent 33 minutes into the game after being denied a penalty.

The victory for Zidane's men was their first ever away at Inter in European competition and put them a point behind Group B leaders Borussia Monchengladbach, with Shakhtar Donetsk and Inter three and five points worse off than Madrid respectively.

"We played a great game from the beginning to the end," Zidane said. "We played serious and with character. They were three very important points and we got the best of us.

"I'm happy with the players. When they have to turn it on, they turn it on."

Hansi Flick has described Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer as an "insane professional" after his superb display in Wednesday's 3-1 Champions League win over Salzburg. 

Robert Lewandowski, Kingsley Coman and Leroy Sane netted for Bayern, who had Marc Roca sent off midway through the second half, while Mergim Berisha pulled one back for the visitors with 17 minutes of normal time remaining.

The result helped Bayern to a fourth win out of four in Group A and sealed their progression to the last 16 as group winners with two games remaining. 

It could have been a different outcome had it not been for the heroics of Neuer, though – the Germany international making 10 saves to deny the Austrians, with his finest moment coming in the form of a superb double stop to deny Berisha and Enock Mwepu.

It was the latest in a string of impressive displays from Neuer, with head coach Flick quick to hail the 34-year-old's dedication to his craft. 

"Manu has been playing sensationally for over a year," he told Sky Sports. "With him, the goal for the striker is getting smaller and smaller. 

"He is in the form of his life. He is an insane professional and very focused on his job."

Bayern never hit the heights of their 6-2 drubbing of Salzburg in the reverse fixture three weeks ago, allowing their opponents 19 attempts on goal in a display characterised by sloppy defending. 

Flick was not impressed by his side's inability to keep hold of the ball but he refused to be too hard on his players, who he says improved after the interval. 

"We made our way a little difficult because we lost a lot of balls," he added. "The ball losses must not happen like this. That is insecurity and recklessness. Of course, we have personnel problems at the moment.

"It got better in the second half. I'm satisfied with the efficiency and, of course, we have a world-class goalkeeper at the back."

Neuer agreed with Flick's assessment that Bayern lost possession too easily, but he believes it is important to remember they achieved their objective of qualifying for the last 16.

"We have conceded too many goals recently," he said. "It was, of course, also down to the opponents. We played against a strong team. We lost the ball too easily and that hurt us. 

"For me, it is important that we won today and are group winners. You do what you can."

After three halves of football without a shot on target, Mumbai City finally managed to test the opposition goalkeeper in the second half of their second match of the season and registered their first win in Goa on Wednesday. 

Sergio Lobera's team took on the manager's former club FC Goa with the hopes of showcasing what they have learnt from the Spanish coach in the short pre-season sessions that they have had. Lobera's teams require time to settle in and it was evident once again at the Fatorda Stadium. 

In terms of lineups, there were talking points in both camps - Lobera's experiment of fielding Adam Le Fondre on the right flank and Bartholomew Ogbeche through the centre hadn't worked against NorthEast United so he dropped the former Kerala Blasters striker to the bench.

Le Fondre was on his own upfront but his impact wasn't felt until the end of the second half as FC Goa did a commendable job of restricting the Islanders to passing sideways and forced them to huff and puff out of frustration. 

There was also the absence of Ahmed Jahouh that Mumbai had to deal with - how did they deal with that? Well, they didn't. Jahouh's importance to Lobera's setup was once again stressed by the lack of connection between the defence and attack throughout the game.

Without the Moroccan midfielder turning up in space to receive the ball and ping it forward, the team struggled to threaten despite having a numerical advantage on the field. It also didn't help that the man tasked with creating chances in the final third - Hugo Boumous - looked completely out of form and rhythm. 

Goa were the better team in the first half but they have themselves to blame for the loss. A terrible high-footed challenge by Redeem Tlang on Hernan Santana five minutes before the break was an invitation letter to Le Fondre and co. into their goal. Juan Ferrando mocked the quality of refereeing in Indian football after the game - in reality, Tlang will be lucky to escape a multi-game suspension due to the nature of the challenge. 

Mumbai City's performance in the second half was also not convincing as they struggled to make use of the advantage. In their own half, Mourtada Fall was struggling and looked out of touch on his debut (he has only recently joined the training sessions) and goalkeeper Amrinder Singh tremendous saves to deny Edu Bedia twice in the second-half kept Mumbai City in with a chance. 

As the game neared the full-time whistle, Adam Le Fondre's quality came to the fore. His drilled low cross into the box only needed a tap-in from close-range but Mandar Rao Dessai kneed the ball into the stands. The former Reading striker caused a lot of problems for a tired Goa defence and in added time, a Lenny Rodrigues handball allowed the English striker to efficiently dispatch the penalty and secure three points. Much of the credit for that should go for Cy Goddard who had an impressive game down the right wing. It was his cross that Bipin Singh headed on to Lenny's hand. 

The result could and should have been attained more easily but knowing the pre-season struggled and how other teams have also taken time to settle in, Lobera will be glad to get a win on the table. 

Ferrando, on the other hand, will be hoping to see Brandon Fernandes fully fit and ready to start games. Even without their star midfielder and with 10 men, the Gaurs were able to create chances and that is a positive sign.  

Gael Kakuta found the back of the net as Lens played out a 1-1 draw against Nantes in Wednesday’s Ligue 1 game.

The former Chelsea star teamed up with the Blood and Gold in the summer on a season-long loan from Amiens and has been delivering scintillating performances for the club.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international was afforded his ninth league start at Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

Kakuta was handed a midfield role and played behind Ignatius Ganago and Simon Banza and helped his side clinch all three points at home.

The 29-year-old opened the scoring for the Blood and Gold in the 26th minute of the encounter after he was set up by Banza.

Kakuta came close to double Lens’ lead in the 36th minute but his shot was blocked and made more frantic attempt four minutes later but fired off his target.

In the 77th minute, Nantes were awarded a penalty after Randal Kolo Muani was brought down by Jonathan Gradit in the area.

Abdoulaye Toure took the resulting penalty and failed to convert the effort, three minutes later, however, the Canaries got a similar opportunity and the forward this time did not miss his target as he swiftly dispatched his effort into the back of the net.

Kakuta featured for 66 minutes in the encounter before he was replaced by Tony Mauricio while Nigeria international Moses Simon was not listed by Nates as he continues his recovery from an injury.

Ivory Coast international Seko Fofana played for seven minutes for Lens after he was brought on for Yannick Cahuzac.

Algeria midfielder Mehdi Abeid was replaced in the 46th minute by Pedro Chirivella while Mali international Kalifa Coulibaly featured for three minutes.

With the draw, Lens are eighth on the league table with 18 points from 10 matches while Nantes are 14thh with 13 points from the same number of games.

Kakuta has now scored five goals in 10 league appearances and will hope to continue his fine displays when Lens take on Angers on November 29.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has backed his team to hit top form in the coming weeks after a 1-0 win against Olympiacos sealed a place in the Champions League knockouts on Wednesday.

Phil Foden scored the only goal of the match at the Karaiskakis Stadium, with the Premier League side enjoying 22 shots to their opponents' two in a dominant performance against the Greek side.

Guardiola was delighted with his team's overall performance and feels it showed the team is ready to explode after a struggling start to the Premier League season, with City currently sitting 13th in the table - eight points behind leaders Tottenham.

"We played really, really well in all departments," Guardiola said to BT Sport post-match

"We are in the next round and can focus on other competitions. We would love to score more but it will come and one day we will break everything."

He added in his post-game press conference: "Today we were much more aggressive to the goal. It is not easy when there are nine players defending.

"We put our wingers closer to the striker. All of them, Bernardo [Silva], Phil, Raz [Raheem Sterling], were so aggressive.

"[Benjamin] Mendy and Joao [Cancelo] were outstanding too. [Ilkay] Gundogan and Rodri as well. In general, the performance was of a top, top level."

Guardiola was full of praise for his team's work-rate, with their defensive performance barely allowing Olympiacos an opportunity to score.

Special praise was reserved for centre-half John Stones, with the England international often finding himself outside the starting XI in recent weeks.

"Our pressing was so good," Guardiola said.

"They made long balls and we won them. Our central defenders were outstanding.

"John Stones, [deserves an] incredibly big compliment because it is not easy when you have not played for a long time and alongside Ruben [Dias] they made an incredible couple. I am especially happy for him.

"Everyone was so committed. We attacked with more desire to shoot and to score the crosses. Now we recover as good as possible and start to focus on the Premier League."

Manchester City resume their Premier League campaign on Saturday as they welcome Burnley to the Etihad Stadium.

Britt Assombalonga scored to help Middlesbrough secure a 3-0 victory over Derby County in Wednesday’s Championship game.

The 27-year-old was afforded his ninth league start and made the most of the opportunity, scoring his second goal of the campaign.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international opened the scoring in the 33rd minute after receiving a timely pass from Duncan Watmore.

Middlesbrough doubled their lead when Matthew Clarke turned the ball into his own net in the 77th minute of the encounter.

With seven minutes left to full time, Marvin Johnson sealed the victory as the Boro secured all three points at the Riverside Stadium.

Assombalonga featured for the duration of the game in his 12th Championship game of the 2020-21 season.

The victory ensured Middlesbrough moved to the seventh spot on the Championship table after gathering 21 points from 13 games.

Assombalonga has been with Middlesbrough since the summer of 2017 when he teamed up with the side from Nottingham Forest.

The centre-forward has made more than 125 appearances for the Boro across all competitions and last season, he played a prominent role as they avoided relegation.

Assombalonga will hope to continue his impressive performances when Middlesbrough take on Huddersfield Town in their next league game on Saturday.