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Real Madrid 5-1 Rayo Vallecano: Bale sparks Blancos rout
Gareth Bale scored on his return to La Liga as Real Madrid thumped Rayo Vallecano 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The winger grabbed his first goal in five Madrid games on nine minutes and although Sergio Ramos doubled the lead just before the break, former Real youngster Alberto Bueno scored to ensure Rayo were just one behind at half-time.
The two-goal cushion was soon restored, though, as Toni Kroos found the net in style in the 55th minute and their fourth was not far behind.
Karim Benzema, although appearing to be offside, knocked in from close range with 31 minutes to go as Cristiano Ronaldo picked up his second assist of the day.
Ronaldo finally grabbed a goal of his own late on, with the help of some questionable goalkeeping, with victory seeing Real remain top of the Liga table with 27 points, two more than rivals Barcelona.
Ancelotti risked upsetting supporters by not including the in-form Isco in his starting line-up as Bale made his return from a gluteal injury.
But the Italian's decision was vindicated just nine minutes in, with Bale getting on the end of Kroos' teasing delivery to give Real an early lead. The hosts struggled to build on that early goal, though, and they had Keylor Navas - in for Iker Casillas - to thank for keeping them ahead in the 21st minute as he palmed away Leo Baptistao's stinging drive.
Rayo's resurgence almost fell apart a few moments later, but Mohammed Fatau escaped punishment despite seemingly bringing Ronaldo down when through on goal.Atletico Madrid-owned Baptistao continued to cause problems at the other end and he went close again 31 minutes in, glancing a header just wide of the bottom-left corner.
But Real eventually doubled their lead in the 40th minute as James Rodriguez's corner was flicked on by Pepe and Ramos - attempting a volley - diverted the ball home with his thigh.
Rayo did hit back with a goal of their own shortly after, though, as Baptistao pounced on Rodriguez's dreadful back-pass before squaring to Bueno for an easy finish.Real reopened the two-goal deficit nine minutes into the second half and they did so in impressive fashion.
Ronaldo poked a pass back out to the lurking Kroos 25 yards from goal and the German produced a fine finish which oozed class, delicately placing his first-time effort into the bottom-right corner.Portugal captain Ronaldo was at the centre of things again four minutes later as he flashed the ball into the danger zone and Benzema was on hand to tap in, despite appearing beyond the last defender.
Goalkeeper Cristian Alvarez tipped Bale's fierce volley on to the crossbar, but he gifted Real a fifth moments later, allowing a tame Ronaldo effort to squeeze between his legs to give the scoreline a healthy gloss.
Gareth Bale scored on his return to La Liga as Real Madrid thumped Rayo Vallecano 5-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The winger grabbed his first goal in five Madrid games on nine minutes and although Sergio Ramos doubled the lead just before the break, former Real youngster Alberto Bueno scored to ensure Rayo were just one behind at half-time.
The two-goal cushion was soon restored, though, as Toni Kroos found the net in style in the 55th minute and their fourth was not far behind.
Karim Benzema, although appearing to be offside, knocked in from close range with 31 minutes to go as Cristiano Ronaldo picked up his second assist of the day.
Ronaldo finally grabbed a goal of his own late on, with the help of some questionable goalkeeping, with victory seeing Real remain top of the Liga table with 27 points, two more than rivals Barcelona.
Ancelotti risked upsetting supporters by not including the in-form Isco in his starting line-up as Bale made his return from a gluteal injury.
But the Italian's decision was vindicated just nine minutes in, with Bale getting on the end of Kroos' teasing delivery to give Real an early lead. The hosts struggled to build on that early goal, though, and they had Keylor Navas - in for Iker Casillas - to thank for keeping them ahead in the 21st minute as he palmed away Leo Baptistao's stinging drive.
Rayo's resurgence almost fell apart a few moments later, but Mohammed Fatau escaped punishment despite seemingly bringing Ronaldo down when through on goal.Atletico Madrid-owned Baptistao continued to cause problems at the other end and he went close again 31 minutes in, glancing a header just wide of the bottom-left corner.
But Real eventually doubled their lead in the 40th minute as James Rodriguez's corner was flicked on by Pepe and Ramos - attempting a volley - diverted the ball home with his thigh.
Rayo did hit back with a goal of their own shortly after, though, as Baptistao pounced on Rodriguez's dreadful back-pass before squaring to Bueno for an easy finish.Real reopened the two-goal deficit nine minutes into the second half and they did so in impressive fashion.
Ronaldo poked a pass back out to the lurking Kroos 25 yards from goal and the German produced a fine finish which oozed class, delicately placing his first-time effort into the bottom-right corner.Portugal captain Ronaldo was at the centre of things again four minutes later as he flashed the ball into the danger zone and Benzema was on hand to tap in, despite appearing beyond the last defender.
Goalkeeper Cristian Alvarez tipped Bale's fierce volley on to the crossbar, but he gifted Real a fifth moments later, allowing a tame Ronaldo effort to squeeze between his legs to give the scoreline a healthy gloss.
Sampdoria 2-2 AC Milan: Menez clinches point for 10-man Rossoneri
Jeremy Menez was AC Milan's saviour after his second half strike clinched a 2-2 draw away to Sampdoria on Saturday night.
Stephan El-Shaarawy ended his 622-day wait to find the back of the net as he put Filippo Inzaghi's side ahead early on at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Saturday, but their high-flying hosts replied on the stroke of half-time through Stefano Okaka.
Eder then put them in front almost immediately after the restart, before Milan were awarded a dubious penalty after 65 minutes – which was calmly tucked away by Menez.
Despite a frantic climax to the game, which included Daniele Bonera being sent off for a second booking for the visitors late on, both sides lacked the cutting edge to snatch a winner - although Diego Lopez was called upon to make a fantastic save in the closing minutes to deny Roberto Soriano a Sampdoria winner.Milan have made an indifferent start to 2014/15, and they headed to Genoa without a win in their previous three Serie A matches.
Inzaghi restored El-Shaarawy to the starting line-up in place of Fernando Torres and the Italy forward repaid his coach's faith after just 10 minutes when he put the visitors ahead with a superb solo effort.He broke clear of the Sampdoria defence down the left flank after linking up with Menez, before cutting inside onto his right before and curling a shot into the bottom corner.
Sampdoria - still unbeaten at home all season - struggled to gain a foothold in the game, with Michael Essien and Nigel de Jong controlling the tempo for the visitors.
Sinisa Mihajlovic's side became increasingly frustrated by Milan's dogged tactics, with forward Okaka having two firm penalty claims waved away by the referee.
However, they levelled things up just before the break when Okaka latched on to Manolo Gabbiadini's delightful cross from the left and tucked a shot away from close range.
Suddenly, Sampdoria had burst into life and they took a deserved lead six minutes into the second period when sloppy Milan defending allowed Eder to bundle the ball home from inside the six-yard box.
The Brazilian stole in unmarked to notch his second of the season after Pedro Obiang's thunderous header had rebounded off the post following a well-worked corner routine.
From there, they looked set to go on and step up the tempo, but Milan were back in the game soon afterwards - albeit controversially as the referee deemed that Menez's cross had caught the hand of a Sampdoria defender.Frenchman Menez, who arrived at San Siro in the summer from Paris Saint Germain, took the resulting spot-kick, sending Sampdoria goalkeeper Sergio Romero the wrong way.
That gave Milan the impetus, with El-Shaarawy and Menez becoming increasingly prominent in the attacking third as the half wore on.The visitors were on top heading into the final period, with Giacomo Bonaventura going close with a venomous drilled effort.
But their hopes of a late winner were hit in the 85th minute when captain Bonera received a second yellow for impeding Okaka just outside the area.Sampdoria could not make their numerical advantage pay however, and Milan hung on to claim a valuable away point.
Jeremy Menez was AC Milan's saviour after his second half strike clinched a 2-2 draw away to Sampdoria on Saturday night.
Stephan El-Shaarawy ended his 622-day wait to find the back of the net as he put Filippo Inzaghi's side ahead early on at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Saturday, but their high-flying hosts replied on the stroke of half-time through Stefano Okaka.
Eder then put them in front almost immediately after the restart, before Milan were awarded a dubious penalty after 65 minutes – which was calmly tucked away by Menez.
Despite a frantic climax to the game, which included Daniele Bonera being sent off for a second booking for the visitors late on, both sides lacked the cutting edge to snatch a winner - although Diego Lopez was called upon to make a fantastic save in the closing minutes to deny Roberto Soriano a Sampdoria winner.Milan have made an indifferent start to 2014/15, and they headed to Genoa without a win in their previous three Serie A matches.
Inzaghi restored El-Shaarawy to the starting line-up in place of Fernando Torres and the Italy forward repaid his coach's faith after just 10 minutes when he put the visitors ahead with a superb solo effort.He broke clear of the Sampdoria defence down the left flank after linking up with Menez, before cutting inside onto his right before and curling a shot into the bottom corner.
Sampdoria - still unbeaten at home all season - struggled to gain a foothold in the game, with Michael Essien and Nigel de Jong controlling the tempo for the visitors.
Sinisa Mihajlovic's side became increasingly frustrated by Milan's dogged tactics, with forward Okaka having two firm penalty claims waved away by the referee.
However, they levelled things up just before the break when Okaka latched on to Manolo Gabbiadini's delightful cross from the left and tucked a shot away from close range.
Suddenly, Sampdoria had burst into life and they took a deserved lead six minutes into the second period when sloppy Milan defending allowed Eder to bundle the ball home from inside the six-yard box.
The Brazilian stole in unmarked to notch his second of the season after Pedro Obiang's thunderous header had rebounded off the post following a well-worked corner routine.
From there, they looked set to go on and step up the tempo, but Milan were back in the game soon afterwards - albeit controversially as the referee deemed that Menez's cross had caught the hand of a Sampdoria defender.Frenchman Menez, who arrived at San Siro in the summer from Paris Saint Germain, took the resulting spot-kick, sending Sampdoria goalkeeper Sergio Romero the wrong way.
That gave Milan the impetus, with El-Shaarawy and Menez becoming increasingly prominent in the attacking third as the half wore on.The visitors were on top heading into the final period, with Giacomo Bonaventura going close with a venomous drilled effort.
But their hopes of a late winner were hit in the 85th minute when captain Bonera received a second yellow for impeding Okaka just outside the area.Sampdoria could not make their numerical advantage pay however, and Milan hung on to claim a valuable away point.
QPR 2-2 Manchester City: Aguero twice brings Blues back from the brink
Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by QPR as their questionable recent form continued on Saturday, needing Sergio Aguero to pull them back level twice.
The Argentina international cancelled out Charlie Austin's opener before equalising with seven minutes remaining after Martin Demichelis’ own goal.
Eliaquim Mangala replaced injured captain Vincent Kompany at the heart of the City defence, one of four changes to the XI that experienced contrasting fortunes against Manchester United and CSKA Moscow, while Bobby Zamora was preferred to Junior Hoilett for QPR.
A reshaped City backline featuring Bacary Sagna in place of Pablo Zabaleta soon looked vulnerable and Austin found the net twice in quick succession, only to have both efforts disallowed.
The striker headed home from a clearly offside position and, from the resulting free-kick, City goalkeeper Joe Hart hit the ball with his standing foot before mis-kicking to Austin.
Hart's failure to kick the ball directly out of his area meant a re-take was necessary, despite a fine finish from the former Burnley forward, but City were visibly unsettled and Hart was forced to deny Austin from close-range in the 15th minute before the same player finally got his goal.
Gael Clichy charged towards Mauricio Isla and lost his footing, enabling the Chile international to find Austin, who was played marginally onside by Mangala and slotted home.
A dreadful spell from City followed, littered with careless passing. Aguero appeared the only visiting player free of the malaise and there was quality and fortune on display when he hauled his misfiring side level.
Playing, like Austin, on the shoulder of the last man, Aguero wonderfully brought down Mangala's raking pass but the ball struck his hand as he controlled before beating Robert Green.Nevertheless, QPR finished the half on top as Hart denied Austin once more following an error from Fernando.
Isla made a vital intervention to stop Aguero converting Jesus Navas' low cross from the right channel in the first minute of the second period, before Toure came agonisingly close to converting a move he launched down the opposite flank.
City belatedly found slightly more control in possession but a last-ditch interception was required from Fernando in the 62nd minute, with Zamora poised to restore QPR's lead.
Edin Dzeko departed with an injury only four minutes after coming on as a substitute and City's misery appeared complete when Demichelis put Austin's cross into his own net under pressure from Zamora in the 76th minute, after Fernando had ceded possession to Fernando Vargas.Again Aguero led a lone charge for the visitors, rounding Green only to see Dunne clear his shot from the goalmouth.
Dunne's centre-back partner Steven Caulker then nodded a header from replacement James Milner off the line and Green denied Toure in the 80th minute before Aguero got the second goal that his efforts, if not those of his team-mates, deserved.
Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by QPR as their questionable recent form continued on Saturday, needing Sergio Aguero to pull them back level twice.
The Argentina international cancelled out Charlie Austin's opener before equalising with seven minutes remaining after Martin Demichelis’ own goal.
Eliaquim Mangala replaced injured captain Vincent Kompany at the heart of the City defence, one of four changes to the XI that experienced contrasting fortunes against Manchester United and CSKA Moscow, while Bobby Zamora was preferred to Junior Hoilett for QPR.
A reshaped City backline featuring Bacary Sagna in place of Pablo Zabaleta soon looked vulnerable and Austin found the net twice in quick succession, only to have both efforts disallowed.
The striker headed home from a clearly offside position and, from the resulting free-kick, City goalkeeper Joe Hart hit the ball with his standing foot before mis-kicking to Austin.
Hart's failure to kick the ball directly out of his area meant a re-take was necessary, despite a fine finish from the former Burnley forward, but City were visibly unsettled and Hart was forced to deny Austin from close-range in the 15th minute before the same player finally got his goal.
Gael Clichy charged towards Mauricio Isla and lost his footing, enabling the Chile international to find Austin, who was played marginally onside by Mangala and slotted home.
A dreadful spell from City followed, littered with careless passing. Aguero appeared the only visiting player free of the malaise and there was quality and fortune on display when he hauled his misfiring side level.
Playing, like Austin, on the shoulder of the last man, Aguero wonderfully brought down Mangala's raking pass but the ball struck his hand as he controlled before beating Robert Green.Nevertheless, QPR finished the half on top as Hart denied Austin once more following an error from Fernando.
Isla made a vital intervention to stop Aguero converting Jesus Navas' low cross from the right channel in the first minute of the second period, before Toure came agonisingly close to converting a move he launched down the opposite flank.
City belatedly found slightly more control in possession but a last-ditch interception was required from Fernando in the 62nd minute, with Zamora poised to restore QPR's lead.
Edin Dzeko departed with an injury only four minutes after coming on as a substitute and City's misery appeared complete when Demichelis put Austin's cross into his own net under pressure from Zamora in the 76th minute, after Fernando had ceded possession to Fernando Vargas.Again Aguero led a lone charge for the visitors, rounding Green only to see Dunne clear his shot from the goalmouth.
Dunne's centre-back partner Steven Caulker then nodded a header from replacement James Milner off the line and Green denied Toure in the 80th minute before Aguero got the second goal that his efforts, if not those of his team-mates, deserved.
Manchester United to open Van Persie contract talks in January
Manchester United will open talks with Robin van Persie over a new contract in January, Goal understands.
The Red Devils typically offer rolling 12-month extensions to players in their early 30s but are prepared to make an exception for Van Persie by adding another two years to his current deal, which expires in the summer of 2016.
It is believed that the 31-year-old's existing €319,000-a-week salary package will remain intact until 2016, but could decrease by as much as €127,000-a-week over the final two years as he assumes veteran status at Old Trafford.
United regard Van Persie as an asset that would still command plenty of interest and a significant fee in the transfer market, and are wary of allowing him to enter the final year of his current deal with no agreement on an extension.
The club are also mindful of the striker's loyalty to Louis van Gaal, with no guarantees that the former Ajax and Barcelona boss will remain at Old Trafford for the coming years after an underwhelming start to the season.
Van Persie's future became the subject of intense speculation during the brief and ill-fated tenure of David Moyes but he reiterated his commitment in March, telling United's official matchday programme: “The truth is I’m very happy here at this club. I signed for four years and I’d be delighted to stay even longer, beyond the next two years I have left on my contract."
The 31-year-old's prospective new deal would effectively see him end his career at the top level with United, though he harbours a desire to play in the Netherlands again before he retires.
Manchester United will open talks with Robin van Persie over a new contract in January, Goal understands.
The Red Devils typically offer rolling 12-month extensions to players in their early 30s but are prepared to make an exception for Van Persie by adding another two years to his current deal, which expires in the summer of 2016.
It is believed that the 31-year-old's existing €319,000-a-week salary package will remain intact until 2016, but could decrease by as much as €127,000-a-week over the final two years as he assumes veteran status at Old Trafford.
United regard Van Persie as an asset that would still command plenty of interest and a significant fee in the transfer market, and are wary of allowing him to enter the final year of his current deal with no agreement on an extension.
The club are also mindful of the striker's loyalty to Louis van Gaal, with no guarantees that the former Ajax and Barcelona boss will remain at Old Trafford for the coming years after an underwhelming start to the season.
Van Persie's future became the subject of intense speculation during the brief and ill-fated tenure of David Moyes but he reiterated his commitment in March, telling United's official matchday programme: “The truth is I’m very happy here at this club. I signed for four years and I’d be delighted to stay even longer, beyond the next two years I have left on my contract."
The 31-year-old's prospective new deal would effectively see him end his career at the top level with United, though he harbours a desire to play in the Netherlands again before he retires.
Ancelotti: Kroos was man of the match
Carlo Ancelotti said Toni Kroos was his man of the match as Real Madrid maintained their impressive run of form with a 5-1 win over Rayo Vallecano.
The midfielder scored to make it 3-1 on 55 minutes in an all-action showing, with Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo the other goalscorers on Saturday evening.
Kroos was a €25 million summer signing from Bayern Munich and has quickly settled into life at the Santiago Bernabeu, forming a partnership with Luka Modric that Ancelotti was quick to praise after overseeing his side's latest victory.
He said: "Kroos was the best player of the game and he even scored his first goal. I'm surprised because he's been playing at a huge level. He is free to attack. When he goes up, Modric stays. They are great together and are playing fantastic."
Madrid's forward line has been the subject of much debate with Isco impressing in the absence of Gareth Bale. The Welshman returned from a hip injury on Saturday, with his team-mate dropping to the bench, though Ancelotti feels his selection choice was justified."Bale gives us more pace and ability in the attack," he added. "You can't always control the game. Bale & Isco are players with different quality. In the next game Isco might play instead of James."
Ronaldo failed to fire against Liverpool in the Champions League on Tuesday but was once again on the scoresheet against Rayo, but his coach says it is not important if he doesn't score every week - despite his incredible haul of 23 goals in all competitions this season.
"I have not seen an anxious Ronaldo. He has played with his team-mates and he's always done well. He enjoyed the game today and it's not a problem if he doesn't score in a certain game."
Carlo Ancelotti said Toni Kroos was his man of the match as Real Madrid maintained their impressive run of form with a 5-1 win over Rayo Vallecano.
The midfielder scored to make it 3-1 on 55 minutes in an all-action showing, with Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo the other goalscorers on Saturday evening.
Kroos was a €25 million summer signing from Bayern Munich and has quickly settled into life at the Santiago Bernabeu, forming a partnership with Luka Modric that Ancelotti was quick to praise after overseeing his side's latest victory.
He said: "Kroos was the best player of the game and he even scored his first goal. I'm surprised because he's been playing at a huge level. He is free to attack. When he goes up, Modric stays. They are great together and are playing fantastic."
Madrid's forward line has been the subject of much debate with Isco impressing in the absence of Gareth Bale. The Welshman returned from a hip injury on Saturday, with his team-mate dropping to the bench, though Ancelotti feels his selection choice was justified."Bale gives us more pace and ability in the attack," he added. "You can't always control the game. Bale & Isco are players with different quality. In the next game Isco might play instead of James."
Ronaldo failed to fire against Liverpool in the Champions League on Tuesday but was once again on the scoresheet against Rayo, but his coach says it is not important if he doesn't score every week - despite his incredible haul of 23 goals in all competitions this season.
"I have not seen an anxious Ronaldo. He has played with his team-mates and he's always done well. He enjoyed the game today and it's not a problem if he doesn't score in a certain game."
Pellegrini: I don't think about Chelsea
Manuel Pellegrini insists he is not worried about the eight-point lead Chelsea hold over Manchester City after his side's 2-2 draw with QPR.
Third-placed City had to come from behind twice at Loftus Road on Saturday to earn a result that still means Jose Mourinho's side edged further ahead of the defending Premier League champions.
QPR worried the City backline on numerous occasions, with Sergio Aguero coming to the rescue to cancel out Charlie Austin's opener and then Martin Demichelis second-half own goal.
But Pellegrini - whose side were beaten by CSKA Moscow in the Champions League in midweek - remains upbeat.
"I'm not thinking about Chelsea," he told a post-match media conference. "I am thinking about our team.
"We have a lot of time, we have to play 27 games more. The championship is very long."
However, the Chilean did concede City's squad need to raise their performance levels to take the pressure off Aguero.
"At this moment he [Aguero] is a very important player for us," he added. "I always say that Sergio is a top player in the world.
"Maybe he needs the whole performance of the team to grow again.
"I think that it was not our best performance in defence, we must improve, but I don't divide the team up, we must improve in general."
Manuel Pellegrini insists he is not worried about the eight-point lead Chelsea hold over Manchester City after his side's 2-2 draw with QPR.
Third-placed City had to come from behind twice at Loftus Road on Saturday to earn a result that still means Jose Mourinho's side edged further ahead of the defending Premier League champions.
QPR worried the City backline on numerous occasions, with Sergio Aguero coming to the rescue to cancel out Charlie Austin's opener and then Martin Demichelis second-half own goal.
But Pellegrini - whose side were beaten by CSKA Moscow in the Champions League in midweek - remains upbeat.
"I'm not thinking about Chelsea," he told a post-match media conference. "I am thinking about our team.
"We have a lot of time, we have to play 27 games more. The championship is very long."
However, the Chilean did concede City's squad need to raise their performance levels to take the pressure off Aguero.
"At this moment he [Aguero] is a very important player for us," he added. "I always say that Sergio is a top player in the world.
"Maybe he needs the whole performance of the team to grow again.
"I think that it was not our best performance in defence, we must improve, but I don't divide the team up, we must improve in general."
Manchester United fans deserve better - Mata
Juan Mata admits Manchester United supporters “deserve better”, despite scoring the winning goal in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
The Spain international began the game on the bench, but was introduced in place of Adnan Januzaj in the second half and made the breakthrough in the 67th minute.
United were often frustrated by a resolute Palace defence, but managed to end their recent run of three games without a win in a battling display. Nevertheless, Mata admits United supporters have had little to cheer recently and has called on his team-mates to start performing as they look to climb the table.
"It was a great feeling, for me, for the team and for the supporters,” he told Sky Sports when asked about his goal.
“I think they deserve better than what they are getting right now and we will try our best in the following games to come back with a good run of results and to go higher in the table."
United moved up to sixth in the Premier League with the victory, but Mata claims he was “suffering” on the bench as he watched his team-mates fail to break through the Palace ranks.
He added: “I was suffering from the bench because I was seeing that it was difficult because we couldn't get the gaps, we couldn’t create too many chances, but when I came on the pitch I just wanted to try to change the game and luckily I did.
"It was massive (the victory). It was very very important. After two or three games without winning we needed the three points and finally we got them.”
I congratulate my players - Guardiola
Pep Guardiola said he could only congratulate his players after Bayern Munich ran out 4-0 winners over Frankfurt on Saturday.A hat-trick from Thomas Muller set the Bavarians on their way, before substitute Xherdan Shaqiri came off the bench to seal the win late on.
Despite his side rarely looking troubled, Guardiola conceded his team were off the pace during the opening stages at the Commerzbank Arena as a result of their efforts in Europe in midweek but was impressed with the way they applied themselves.
He told reporters: "It's always difficult after a Champions League game. We struggled in the early stages."Going 3-0 up it became a different game. I'd like to congratulate my players."The former Barcelona coach was also quick to praise opposite number Thomas Schaaf, who is beginning to feel the pressure after five straight defeats.
Guardiola added: "It's always hard to play against a team of Thomas Schaaf. They were very aggressive in defence and had a few problems with our setup."The convincing win gives Bayern a seven-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga ahead of Wolfsburg's home clash with Hamburg on Sunday.
However, a determined Guardiola hinted that it would not be a time for his side to put their feet up ahead of the international break."We now have a few days to analyse our performances and find ways to improve."
Pep Guardiola said he could only congratulate his players after Bayern Munich ran out 4-0 winners over Frankfurt on Saturday.A hat-trick from Thomas Muller set the Bavarians on their way, before substitute Xherdan Shaqiri came off the bench to seal the win late on.
Despite his side rarely looking troubled, Guardiola conceded his team were off the pace during the opening stages at the Commerzbank Arena as a result of their efforts in Europe in midweek but was impressed with the way they applied themselves.
He told reporters: "It's always difficult after a Champions League game. We struggled in the early stages."Going 3-0 up it became a different game. I'd like to congratulate my players."The former Barcelona coach was also quick to praise opposite number Thomas Schaaf, who is beginning to feel the pressure after five straight defeats.
Guardiola added: "It's always hard to play against a team of Thomas Schaaf. They were very aggressive in defence and had a few problems with our setup."The convincing win gives Bayern a seven-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga ahead of Wolfsburg's home clash with Hamburg on Sunday.
However, a determined Guardiola hinted that it would not be a time for his side to put their feet up ahead of the international break."We now have a few days to analyse our performances and find ways to improve."
We won playing badly - Enrique
Luis Enrique admitted Barcelona were poor in beating Almeria on Saturday but feels the character displayed by his players in churning out the result bodes well for the rest of the season.
The coach left Luis Suarez, Neymar, Xavi, Dani Alves and Gerard Pique out of his starting XI and paid the price as Barca went in 1-0 down at the break.
Suarez and Neymar were then thrown on for the second half and made the difference for the side as the Uruguayan set up the Brazilian forward and Jordi Alba to complete a 2-1 comeback, leaving Enrique with mixed feelings after the game.
"It’s basic stuff. To be successful you need to win playing badly, like today," he told reporters. "With the difficulties that Almeria created for us and our mistakes and lack of fluidity the result is the best thing about today.
"We were unable to counteract an Almeria side that were shut up at the back and who scored against us on the counter. We didn’t play well, but with attitude and effort from the players we came back.
"We need to keep getting better and keep looking at what hasn’t improved. I don’t know if we are above or below what was expected."We knew they would leave spaces outside and look to play tactically, moving the ball up fast. The game got tougher, the substitutes made the difference, not in the style of play, but in the chances created. That doesn’t cover up the fact we played badly.
"The individual players were below par. We need to improve to get our style of football back and to keep winning games and picking up points. That’s the objective."
Luis Enrique admitted Barcelona were poor in beating Almeria on Saturday but feels the character displayed by his players in churning out the result bodes well for the rest of the season.
The coach left Luis Suarez, Neymar, Xavi, Dani Alves and Gerard Pique out of his starting XI and paid the price as Barca went in 1-0 down at the break.
Suarez and Neymar were then thrown on for the second half and made the difference for the side as the Uruguayan set up the Brazilian forward and Jordi Alba to complete a 2-1 comeback, leaving Enrique with mixed feelings after the game.
"It’s basic stuff. To be successful you need to win playing badly, like today," he told reporters. "With the difficulties that Almeria created for us and our mistakes and lack of fluidity the result is the best thing about today.
"We were unable to counteract an Almeria side that were shut up at the back and who scored against us on the counter. We didn’t play well, but with attitude and effort from the players we came back.
"We need to keep getting better and keep looking at what hasn’t improved. I don’t know if we are above or below what was expected."We knew they would leave spaces outside and look to play tactically, moving the ball up fast. The game got tougher, the substitutes made the difference, not in the style of play, but in the chances created. That doesn’t cover up the fact we played badly.
"The individual players were below par. We need to improve to get our style of football back and to keep winning games and picking up points. That’s the objective."
Barclays Premier League 2014.11.09 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2014.11.09 Fixtures
Sunderland Vs Everton
Tottenham Vs Stoke City
WBA Vs Newcastle
Swansea Vs Arsenal
La Liga 2014.11.09 Fixtures
La Liga 2014.11.09 Fixtures
Sevilla Vs Levante
Real Sociedad Vs Atletico Madrid
Espanyol Vs Villareal
Valencia Vs Athletic Bilbao
Sevilla Vs Levante
Real Sociedad Vs Atletico Madrid
Espanyol Vs Villareal
Valencia Vs Athletic Bilbao
Serie A 2014.11.09 Fixtures
Serie A 2014.11.09 Fixtures
Cagliari Vs Genoa
Juventus Vs Parma
Roma Vs Torino
Chievo Vs Cesena
Palermo Vs Udinese
Inter Vs Hellas
Empoli Vs Lazio
Fiorentina Vs Napoli
Cagliari Vs Genoa
Juventus Vs Parma
Roma Vs Torino
Chievo Vs Cesena
Palermo Vs Udinese
Inter Vs Hellas
Empoli Vs Lazio
Fiorentina Vs Napoli
Meh sare Top teams walata Southampton la tough challenge 1kak wei bro
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Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 Olympique de Marseille: Lucas Moura and Cavani halt OM charge
Lucas Moura and Edinson Cavani scored as Paris Saint-Germain beat Marseille 2-0 to halt the visitors' title charge at the Parc des Princes.Moura's sixth goal of the season put the champions in front in the first half and Cavani sealed the points five minutes from time as Laurent Blanc's side maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign.
Having soaked up pressure from the visitors in the opening half hour, PSG took the lead when Lucas reached an Ezequiel Lavezzi cross to poke the ball beyond Steve Mandanda.
Chances were few and far between after the break, but the introduction of fit-again striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, returning after a spell on the sidelines with a heel injury, gave PSG an extra spring in their step.
Gianelli Imbula's harsh late dismissal for a challenge on Yohan Cabaye all but ended Marcelo Bielsa's side's hopes of salvaging a point and Cavani added a second goal to ensure there was no way back for the leaders.
Marseille started on the front foot and had three chances to open the scoring in the first 10 minutes.Two fell to Andre-Pierre Gignac, who first saw his header crash against the post and then curled a long-range effort wide of Salvatore Sirigu's goal.
Romain Alessandrini was unable to mark his recall to the starting line-up with an early goal, as he failed to convert a volley from the edge of the penalty area from a Benjamin Mendy cross.
PSG slowly found their feet and Mandanda was called into action for the first time, the goalkeeping saving at point-blank range from Javier Pastore after 21 minutes.Sirigu continued to be the busier of the two goalkeepers, though, the Italian having to be alert to push away another Alessandrini effort on the half-hour mark.
Despite Marseille being in the ascendency for large periods of the half it was the hosts who broke the deadlock 38 minutes in, when Lavezzi delivered a low cross into the penalty area and Lucas beat Mendy to poke the ball home.
Seven minutes after the break Gignac had his third chance of the match after pressurising the PSG defence, but his attempted chip over Sirigu did not have enough height on it, allowing the keeper to claim easily.
Lucas' pace was beginning to threaten the Marseille defence as the game became stretched, however the Brazilian's final ball and finishing let him down in promising positions.Ibrahimovic made his return from injury in the 65th minute, and within two minutes he was in the thick of the action.
The Sweden striker carried the ball towards the Marseille penalty area before finding Lucas, who in turn laid the ball off to Cabaye and the midfielder saw his low shot pushed away by Mandanda with Cavani unable to finish following up.Marseille's chances of getting anything out of the game looked slim when Imbula was harshly shown a straight red card for a challenge on Cabaye.
And Cavani secured the win for PSG with five minutes to play, when the Uruguay strike rose to convert Serge Aurier's right-wing cross.
Lucas Moura and Edinson Cavani scored as Paris Saint-Germain beat Marseille 2-0 to halt the visitors' title charge at the Parc des Princes.Moura's sixth goal of the season put the champions in front in the first half and Cavani sealed the points five minutes from time as Laurent Blanc's side maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign.
Having soaked up pressure from the visitors in the opening half hour, PSG took the lead when Lucas reached an Ezequiel Lavezzi cross to poke the ball beyond Steve Mandanda.
Chances were few and far between after the break, but the introduction of fit-again striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, returning after a spell on the sidelines with a heel injury, gave PSG an extra spring in their step.
Gianelli Imbula's harsh late dismissal for a challenge on Yohan Cabaye all but ended Marcelo Bielsa's side's hopes of salvaging a point and Cavani added a second goal to ensure there was no way back for the leaders.
Marseille started on the front foot and had three chances to open the scoring in the first 10 minutes.Two fell to Andre-Pierre Gignac, who first saw his header crash against the post and then curled a long-range effort wide of Salvatore Sirigu's goal.
Romain Alessandrini was unable to mark his recall to the starting line-up with an early goal, as he failed to convert a volley from the edge of the penalty area from a Benjamin Mendy cross.
PSG slowly found their feet and Mandanda was called into action for the first time, the goalkeeping saving at point-blank range from Javier Pastore after 21 minutes.Sirigu continued to be the busier of the two goalkeepers, though, the Italian having to be alert to push away another Alessandrini effort on the half-hour mark.
Despite Marseille being in the ascendency for large periods of the half it was the hosts who broke the deadlock 38 minutes in, when Lavezzi delivered a low cross into the penalty area and Lucas beat Mendy to poke the ball home.
Seven minutes after the break Gignac had his third chance of the match after pressurising the PSG defence, but his attempted chip over Sirigu did not have enough height on it, allowing the keeper to claim easily.
Lucas' pace was beginning to threaten the Marseille defence as the game became stretched, however the Brazilian's final ball and finishing let him down in promising positions.Ibrahimovic made his return from injury in the 65th minute, and within two minutes he was in the thick of the action.
The Sweden striker carried the ball towards the Marseille penalty area before finding Lucas, who in turn laid the ball off to Cabaye and the midfielder saw his low shot pushed away by Mandanda with Cavani unable to finish following up.Marseille's chances of getting anything out of the game looked slim when Imbula was harshly shown a straight red card for a challenge on Cabaye.
And Cavani secured the win for PSG with five minutes to play, when the Uruguay strike rose to convert Serge Aurier's right-wing cross.
Real Sociedad 2-1 Atletico Madrid: Champions stunned by Agirretxe strike
Atletico Madrid were stunned by Imanol Agirretxe's late strike as they were beaten 2-1 by Real Sociedad on Sunday night.A run of eight games without a win, including five defeats, led to Sociedad dismissing Arrasate earlier in the week, with former Manchester United boss David Moyes strongly tipped to replace him.
However, their sole triumph of the Liga campaign came when beating Real Madrid 4-2 on home turf at the end of August and they again raised their game against visitors from the capital.Mario Mandzukic gave the champions an early advantage but Carlos Vela quickly equalised and could have had a penalty in an even first half.
Diego Simeone's men were seeking a sixth straight victory in all competitions but lost Guilherme Siqueira to a red card after 50 minutes.
Two more spot-kick decisions then went against the home team, but Agirretxe - one of six changes made by B team coach Asier Santana in temporary charge of the seniors - headed in a deserved late winner.
Atletico boss Simeone kept faith with the same starting line-up which beat Malmo 2-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday, which meant Antoine Griezmann was on the bench against his former club.
The visitors were in front after 10 minutes when Raul Garcia put in a teasing ball across the face of the goal and Mandzukic was at the far post to fire into the roof of the net.
However, Sociedad replied within five minutes when Vela curled in a sweetly struck left-foot shot from just outside the area which found the bottom-left corner.
Atletico were given a reprieve when Diego Godin appeared to just clip Vela inside the box, with the striker booked for diving instead.
The champions survived another scare when Agirretxe pounced on a poor back-pass by Miranda and rounded Miguel Angel Moya, only for his shot to be cleared off the line by a scrambling Godin. Atletico were reduced to 10 men early in the second period when Siqueira was sent off for a second bookable offence after fouling Vela, who then had another penalty appeal turned down.
Mandzukic missed a great chance to put Madrid back in front when blasting wide after a great cut-back from substitute Cristian Ansaldi.Sociedad were again denied a spot-kick when the ball struck Ansaldi's arm just inside the area, referee Alfonso Alvarez waving away stern protests.
However, they got their reward for a fine performance when substitute Joseba Zaldua whipped in a cross for Agirretxe, who grabbed just his second of the season to lift the Basque club out of the relegation zone.
Atletico Madrid were stunned by Imanol Agirretxe's late strike as they were beaten 2-1 by Real Sociedad on Sunday night.A run of eight games without a win, including five defeats, led to Sociedad dismissing Arrasate earlier in the week, with former Manchester United boss David Moyes strongly tipped to replace him.
However, their sole triumph of the Liga campaign came when beating Real Madrid 4-2 on home turf at the end of August and they again raised their game against visitors from the capital.Mario Mandzukic gave the champions an early advantage but Carlos Vela quickly equalised and could have had a penalty in an even first half.
Diego Simeone's men were seeking a sixth straight victory in all competitions but lost Guilherme Siqueira to a red card after 50 minutes.
Two more spot-kick decisions then went against the home team, but Agirretxe - one of six changes made by B team coach Asier Santana in temporary charge of the seniors - headed in a deserved late winner.
Atletico boss Simeone kept faith with the same starting line-up which beat Malmo 2-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday, which meant Antoine Griezmann was on the bench against his former club.
The visitors were in front after 10 minutes when Raul Garcia put in a teasing ball across the face of the goal and Mandzukic was at the far post to fire into the roof of the net.
However, Sociedad replied within five minutes when Vela curled in a sweetly struck left-foot shot from just outside the area which found the bottom-left corner.
Atletico were given a reprieve when Diego Godin appeared to just clip Vela inside the box, with the striker booked for diving instead.
The champions survived another scare when Agirretxe pounced on a poor back-pass by Miranda and rounded Miguel Angel Moya, only for his shot to be cleared off the line by a scrambling Godin. Atletico were reduced to 10 men early in the second period when Siqueira was sent off for a second bookable offence after fouling Vela, who then had another penalty appeal turned down.
Mandzukic missed a great chance to put Madrid back in front when blasting wide after a great cut-back from substitute Cristian Ansaldi.Sociedad were again denied a spot-kick when the ball struck Ansaldi's arm just inside the area, referee Alfonso Alvarez waving away stern protests.
However, they got their reward for a fine performance when substitute Joseba Zaldua whipped in a cross for Agirretxe, who grabbed just his second of the season to lift the Basque club out of the relegation zone.
Inter 2-2 Verona: Last-gasp Lopez denies Nerazzurri
Nicolai Lopez scored an injury-time equaliser as Verona snatched a last-gasp point in a 2-2 draw with Inter at San Siro.Luca Toni scored an early opener but Icardi volleyed a first-half equaliser and then tapped in a second to turn the game on it's head.
But the drama was far from over as Gary Medel received his marching orders for handling in the area, only for Samir Handanovic to save yet another penalty.
However, there was nothing he could do to stop Lopez from scoring a late equaliser, which makes it three games without a win for Inter.
Verona made a much stronger start and went ahead with a slick counter-attack - led by the returning Emil Hallfredsson - that saw Lazaros Christodoulopoulos nod into the path of Toni and the veteran striker expertly volley home from six yards.
The hosts rallied and equalised in almost identical fashion in the 18th minute as a deep cross was nodded into the centre by Rodrigo Palacio and Icardi was on hand to volley in from close range.
It lifted Inter and they almost completed the turnaround moments later as Zdravko Kuzmanovic's 25-yard curling shot cannoned off the post.The end-to-end nature of the game continued with a superb reaction save from Rafael denying Nemanja Vidic's powerful header before an inswinging Christodoulopoulos cross evaded everyone but the razor-sharp Handanovic in Inter's goal.
It took less than three minutes of the restart for Inter to take the lead as Palacio found space and drilled to the far post where Icardi tapped in his seventh Serie A goal this season.
Verona had a chance to draw level from the spot after 50 minutes when Medel handled Juanito's shot, earning him a second booking and an early bath.However, Handanovic guessed right and saved Toni's penalty to register his third spot kick save of the season.Christodoulopoulos hit the bar and Toni clipped wide from close range as the visitors pressed for an equaliser, which finally arrived as Lopez linked up with fellow substitute Javier Saviola and slammed home.
Mazzarri trudged straight down the tunnel as the final whistle blew, with speculation sure to rage about his job security throughout the week.
Nicolai Lopez scored an injury-time equaliser as Verona snatched a last-gasp point in a 2-2 draw with Inter at San Siro.Luca Toni scored an early opener but Icardi volleyed a first-half equaliser and then tapped in a second to turn the game on it's head.
But the drama was far from over as Gary Medel received his marching orders for handling in the area, only for Samir Handanovic to save yet another penalty.
However, there was nothing he could do to stop Lopez from scoring a late equaliser, which makes it three games without a win for Inter.
Verona made a much stronger start and went ahead with a slick counter-attack - led by the returning Emil Hallfredsson - that saw Lazaros Christodoulopoulos nod into the path of Toni and the veteran striker expertly volley home from six yards.
The hosts rallied and equalised in almost identical fashion in the 18th minute as a deep cross was nodded into the centre by Rodrigo Palacio and Icardi was on hand to volley in from close range.
It lifted Inter and they almost completed the turnaround moments later as Zdravko Kuzmanovic's 25-yard curling shot cannoned off the post.The end-to-end nature of the game continued with a superb reaction save from Rafael denying Nemanja Vidic's powerful header before an inswinging Christodoulopoulos cross evaded everyone but the razor-sharp Handanovic in Inter's goal.
It took less than three minutes of the restart for Inter to take the lead as Palacio found space and drilled to the far post where Icardi tapped in his seventh Serie A goal this season.
Verona had a chance to draw level from the spot after 50 minutes when Medel handled Juanito's shot, earning him a second booking and an early bath.However, Handanovic guessed right and saved Toni's penalty to register his third spot kick save of the season.Christodoulopoulos hit the bar and Toni clipped wide from close range as the visitors pressed for an equaliser, which finally arrived as Lopez linked up with fellow substitute Javier Saviola and slammed home.
Mazzarri trudged straight down the tunnel as the final whistle blew, with speculation sure to rage about his job security throughout the week.
Roma 3-0 Torino: Torosidis, Keita & Ljajic score in routine win
Roma have recorded a 3-0 win over Torino in Sunday evening's Serie A encounter at the Stadio Olimpico.
Vasilis Torosidis gave the hosts an early lead before Seydou Keita made it two before half-time. The Turin outfit were unable to get back in the game after the break and Adem Ljajic eventually put the match to bed with a superb goal.
Rudi Garcia's men dominated proceedings right from the start and needed only eight minutes to break the deadlock. Francesco Totti found Torosidis with a subtle chip into the path of Torosidis and the Greek defender found the net with a fine strike.
Torino nearly restored parity shortly after following a fine individual piece of play from Fabio Quagliarella, but Morgan De Sanctis pulled off a fine save to deny the former Juventus attacker.
The referee awarded Roma a free kick in a dangerous position after Kamil Glik fouled Gervinho on the edge of the area, but Miralem Pjanic was unfortunate to see hit superb attempt only hit the woodwork.
There was no denying the Romans in the 27th minute, however. Pjanic set up Keita and the experienced midfielder fired home with a powerful left-footed strike to double his side's lead.
Torino started the second half brightly and nearly pegged one back just minutes after the restart. Matteo Darmian reached Juan Sanchez Mino inside the area after some good work from Quagliarella, but the substitute blasted over from close range.The hosts remained unperturbed, though, and made it three in the 58th minute.
Ljajic collected a pass from Pjanic on the edge of the box and the Serbian attacker beat the Torino goalkeeper with a curled shot into the top corner.Gervinho thought he had added his name to the scoresheet as well in the closing stages of the game, but his strike was ruled out for offside.
There was a special moment of joy for Kevin Strootman in the 84th minute as the Dutchman came off the bench to make his comeback after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury.Roma remain second in the Serie A table with 25 points from 11 games, trailing leaders Juventus by three points. They meet Atalanta in their first game after the international break.
Torino sit joint 13th in the standings following this weekend's results with 12 points.
Roma have recorded a 3-0 win over Torino in Sunday evening's Serie A encounter at the Stadio Olimpico.
Vasilis Torosidis gave the hosts an early lead before Seydou Keita made it two before half-time. The Turin outfit were unable to get back in the game after the break and Adem Ljajic eventually put the match to bed with a superb goal.
Rudi Garcia's men dominated proceedings right from the start and needed only eight minutes to break the deadlock. Francesco Totti found Torosidis with a subtle chip into the path of Torosidis and the Greek defender found the net with a fine strike.
Torino nearly restored parity shortly after following a fine individual piece of play from Fabio Quagliarella, but Morgan De Sanctis pulled off a fine save to deny the former Juventus attacker.
The referee awarded Roma a free kick in a dangerous position after Kamil Glik fouled Gervinho on the edge of the area, but Miralem Pjanic was unfortunate to see hit superb attempt only hit the woodwork.
There was no denying the Romans in the 27th minute, however. Pjanic set up Keita and the experienced midfielder fired home with a powerful left-footed strike to double his side's lead.
Torino started the second half brightly and nearly pegged one back just minutes after the restart. Matteo Darmian reached Juan Sanchez Mino inside the area after some good work from Quagliarella, but the substitute blasted over from close range.The hosts remained unperturbed, though, and made it three in the 58th minute.
Ljajic collected a pass from Pjanic on the edge of the box and the Serbian attacker beat the Torino goalkeeper with a curled shot into the top corner.Gervinho thought he had added his name to the scoresheet as well in the closing stages of the game, but his strike was ruled out for offside.
There was a special moment of joy for Kevin Strootman in the 84th minute as the Dutchman came off the bench to make his comeback after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury.Roma remain second in the Serie A table with 25 points from 11 games, trailing leaders Juventus by three points. They meet Atalanta in their first game after the international break.
Torino sit joint 13th in the standings following this weekend's results with 12 points.
Borussia Dortmund 1-0 Borussia Monchengladbach: Kramer clanger gifts BVB morale-boosting win
Christoph Kramer scored a remarkable own goal to gift Borussia Dortmund a precious 1-0 victory over Bundesliga rivals Borussia Monchengladbach on Sunday afternoon.
Jurgen Klopp's men finally looked capable of replicating their fine UEFA Champions League form as they dominated their visitors throughout, but victory came via a stroke of luck as the home side wasted countless chances.Former Monchengladbach star Marco Reus went close twice early on, with Yann Sommer nudging one effort on to the post.
But just when it appeared as though a combination of poor finishing and inspired goalkeeping from Sommer was going to thwart Dortmund, Kramer produced a moment that he will want to forget.
With 58 minutes played, the World Cup winner lobbed his own goalkeeper from near the halfway line as Dortmund made the breakthrough in the most fortuitous of circumstances.
Monchengladbach put Dortmund under some pressure towards the end, but the home side held on for a slender win, ending their opponents' unbeaten start to the season and lifting Klopp's men off the bottom of the table.Dortmund showed few signs of being in such wretched form during the early exchanges, causing their visitors significant problems when going forward.
In fact, Reus almost opened the scoring with just over a minute played, as he burst into the left side of the area and sent a controlled effort just wide of the opposite post.
Dortmund went even closer to capitalising on their superiority in the ninth minute as Reus pounced on Henrikh Mkhitaryan's cut-back and saw his first-time effort tipped on to the upright by Sommer.
Monchengladbach were left chasing shadows at times as Dortmund worked the ball excellently in the final third, but they could not apply finish when presented with chances.Lukasz Piszczek was particularly guilty when he spurned a glorious chance in the 29th minute, latching on to Mkhitaryan's defence-splitting pass before firing well wide when one-on-one with Sommer.
And the Armenian attacker followed suit eight minutes later, inexplicably blazing over the bar with just Sommer to beat after racing on to Sven Bender's inch-perfect throughball.
Dortmund started the second half in much the same manner as they generally dictated the tempo, but Monchengladbach remained resolute at the back.That was until Kramer attempted a first-time back-pass from inside the centre-circle and succeeded only in looping the ball over a stranded Sommer to score a remarkable own goal.Kramer buried his head in his hands and things almost got worse for the visitors two minutes later, Reus crashing a 20-yard drive off the crossbar.
Dortmund afforded Monchengladbach significantly more of the ball in the latter stages, but Lucien Favre's side could not break down Klopp's organised defensive unit and the hosts held on for just their third Bundesliga win of the season.
Christoph Kramer scored a remarkable own goal to gift Borussia Dortmund a precious 1-0 victory over Bundesliga rivals Borussia Monchengladbach on Sunday afternoon.
Jurgen Klopp's men finally looked capable of replicating their fine UEFA Champions League form as they dominated their visitors throughout, but victory came via a stroke of luck as the home side wasted countless chances.Former Monchengladbach star Marco Reus went close twice early on, with Yann Sommer nudging one effort on to the post.
But just when it appeared as though a combination of poor finishing and inspired goalkeeping from Sommer was going to thwart Dortmund, Kramer produced a moment that he will want to forget.
With 58 minutes played, the World Cup winner lobbed his own goalkeeper from near the halfway line as Dortmund made the breakthrough in the most fortuitous of circumstances.
Monchengladbach put Dortmund under some pressure towards the end, but the home side held on for a slender win, ending their opponents' unbeaten start to the season and lifting Klopp's men off the bottom of the table.Dortmund showed few signs of being in such wretched form during the early exchanges, causing their visitors significant problems when going forward.
In fact, Reus almost opened the scoring with just over a minute played, as he burst into the left side of the area and sent a controlled effort just wide of the opposite post.
Dortmund went even closer to capitalising on their superiority in the ninth minute as Reus pounced on Henrikh Mkhitaryan's cut-back and saw his first-time effort tipped on to the upright by Sommer.
Monchengladbach were left chasing shadows at times as Dortmund worked the ball excellently in the final third, but they could not apply finish when presented with chances.Lukasz Piszczek was particularly guilty when he spurned a glorious chance in the 29th minute, latching on to Mkhitaryan's defence-splitting pass before firing well wide when one-on-one with Sommer.
And the Armenian attacker followed suit eight minutes later, inexplicably blazing over the bar with just Sommer to beat after racing on to Sven Bender's inch-perfect throughball.
Dortmund started the second half in much the same manner as they generally dictated the tempo, but Monchengladbach remained resolute at the back.That was until Kramer attempted a first-time back-pass from inside the centre-circle and succeeded only in looping the ball over a stranded Sommer to score a remarkable own goal.Kramer buried his head in his hands and things almost got worse for the visitors two minutes later, Reus crashing a 20-yard drive off the crossbar.
Dortmund afforded Monchengladbach significantly more of the ball in the latter stages, but Lucien Favre's side could not break down Klopp's organised defensive unit and the hosts held on for just their third Bundesliga win of the season.
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