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Everton 2-1 Tottenham: Late double denies Spurs and AVB fifth straight win
A goal from Clint Dempsey seemed to have earned Tottenham all three points against Everton, but a late comeback saw two quickfire goals give the Toffees a 2-1 win.
Their first real chance of the game came in the early stages of the second period, when big Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen blasted a free kick at goal and stung the palms of Tim Howard as the American goalkeeper turned the ball over the crossbar.
But the second half soon settled into a familiar tale to the opening period, with neither side creating any out-and-out chances or increasing the tempo of the game.
Everton looked short of creativity and drive after the halftime substitution of Kevin Mirallas, who appeared to suffer a relapse of the hamstring problem that has been plaguing him in recent weeks.
It took a moment of quality from Tottenham’s summer signing to break the deadlock at Goodison Park.
Dempsey received the ball just outside the Everton area and his shot at goal took a deflection off Sylvain Distin and lofted over the helpless Howard.
The goal seemed to spark the home side into life as Everton adopted a more direct approach in a bid to get back into the game.
However it was Tottenham which nearly doubled the lead when substitute Gylfi Sigurdsson saw his shot cannon off the crossbar with just five minutes left to play.
Minutes later the miss would come back to haunt Spurs as Steven Pienaar got his head on a cross from Seamus Coleman to earn an equaliser against his former club.
The comeback would be completed less than two minutes later. Nikica Jelavic pounced on a loose ball in the Tottenham area to slam home a winner for the home side.
The win moves Everton level on points with Tottenham, with the Toffees jumping to fourth in the table on goal difference.
A goal from Clint Dempsey seemed to have earned Tottenham all three points against Everton, but a late comeback saw two quickfire goals give the Toffees a 2-1 win.
Their first real chance of the game came in the early stages of the second period, when big Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen blasted a free kick at goal and stung the palms of Tim Howard as the American goalkeeper turned the ball over the crossbar.
But the second half soon settled into a familiar tale to the opening period, with neither side creating any out-and-out chances or increasing the tempo of the game.
Everton looked short of creativity and drive after the halftime substitution of Kevin Mirallas, who appeared to suffer a relapse of the hamstring problem that has been plaguing him in recent weeks.
It took a moment of quality from Tottenham’s summer signing to break the deadlock at Goodison Park.
Dempsey received the ball just outside the Everton area and his shot at goal took a deflection off Sylvain Distin and lofted over the helpless Howard.
The goal seemed to spark the home side into life as Everton adopted a more direct approach in a bid to get back into the game.
However it was Tottenham which nearly doubled the lead when substitute Gylfi Sigurdsson saw his shot cannon off the crossbar with just five minutes left to play.
Minutes later the miss would come back to haunt Spurs as Steven Pienaar got his head on a cross from Seamus Coleman to earn an equaliser against his former club.
The comeback would be completed less than two minutes later. Nikica Jelavic pounced on a loose ball in the Tottenham area to slam home a winner for the home side.
The win moves Everton level on points with Tottenham, with the Toffees jumping to fourth in the table on goal difference.
West Ham 2-3 Liverpool: Shelvey, Cole and Johnson come back to haunt Hammers
LONDON -- West Ham’s famous academy came back to haunt the club as three products of the youth system inspired Liverpool to a memorable 3-2 win at Upton Park.
Glen Johnson scored a stunning opener against his old club to put the visitors ahead in the 11th minute before the Hammers hit back to take the lead at halftime through Mark Noble’s penalty and a Steven Gerrard own-goal.
But Liverpool stormed back late on to turn the game, another former Hammer, Joe Cole, scoring in the 76th minute before Jonjo Shelvey’s glancing effort looped in off James Collins 11 minutes from time to give Liverpool all three points.
The result moves the Reds up to 10th in the Premier League, level with West Ham and just four points behind local rival Everton in fourth place.
With talismanic striker Luis Suarez suspended, the limited attacking options available to Brendan Rodgers were highlighted as the Liverpool manager played Romford-born Shelvey as a ‘false nine’ at the club where he spent three years as a youngster from the age of 12.
The atmosphere around Upton Park ahead of kickoff was optimistic off the back of a successful week in which the Hammers beat Chelsea and were named as the preferred bidders for the Olympic Stadium.
It was an east end boy who silenced the crowd with the opener in the 11th minute. After collecting a Gerrard pass on the right touchline, Johnson cut inside and launched a stunning strike into the top corner from 20 yards as the West Ham defense backed off. The fullback has scored in his last three games against his former club but refused to celebrate as teammates mobbed him.
Liverpool, much like Chelsea eight days earlier, dominated the first quarter of the game and could have doubled the lead, Raheem Sterling coming closest when he swept just wide from 12 yards after more good work from Johnson.
In the 36th minute, the home side drew level when referee Lee Probert awarded a penalty as Joe Allen handled Mohamed Diame’s volley from the edge of the box. The Reds protested against the decision in vain before Noble stepped up to calmly slot the kick low into the left corner.
Kevin Nolan headed just over the bar from close range but the Hammers took the lead two minutes before the break in comical circumstances. Matt Jarvis swung in a vicious cross from the right and, as several player strained to get a touch, Gerrard could only head the ball into his own net.
The pace of the game dropped immediately after the break as West Ham looked to consolidate the lead, but Liverpool came storming back in the final quarter of the match.
In the 67th minute, Sterling forced Hammers goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen into a fingertip save with a powerful left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area.
The day was soured for West Ham as the excellent Diame was taken off the field on a stretcher 17 minutes from time after picking up what appeared to be a serious hamstring injury.
It got even worse as Sterling slipped in Cole with a delightful pass, and the forgotten man kept his cool to sweep home a lovely finish into the far corner with his weaker left foot.
Three minutes later Shelvey got on substitute Jordan Henderson’s cross, his flicked effort hitting Collins before spinning over Jaaskelainen into the net. A breathless, brilliant victory for the Merseyside club.
LONDON -- West Ham’s famous academy came back to haunt the club as three products of the youth system inspired Liverpool to a memorable 3-2 win at Upton Park.
Glen Johnson scored a stunning opener against his old club to put the visitors ahead in the 11th minute before the Hammers hit back to take the lead at halftime through Mark Noble’s penalty and a Steven Gerrard own-goal.
But Liverpool stormed back late on to turn the game, another former Hammer, Joe Cole, scoring in the 76th minute before Jonjo Shelvey’s glancing effort looped in off James Collins 11 minutes from time to give Liverpool all three points.
The result moves the Reds up to 10th in the Premier League, level with West Ham and just four points behind local rival Everton in fourth place.
With talismanic striker Luis Suarez suspended, the limited attacking options available to Brendan Rodgers were highlighted as the Liverpool manager played Romford-born Shelvey as a ‘false nine’ at the club where he spent three years as a youngster from the age of 12.
The atmosphere around Upton Park ahead of kickoff was optimistic off the back of a successful week in which the Hammers beat Chelsea and were named as the preferred bidders for the Olympic Stadium.
It was an east end boy who silenced the crowd with the opener in the 11th minute. After collecting a Gerrard pass on the right touchline, Johnson cut inside and launched a stunning strike into the top corner from 20 yards as the West Ham defense backed off. The fullback has scored in his last three games against his former club but refused to celebrate as teammates mobbed him.
Liverpool, much like Chelsea eight days earlier, dominated the first quarter of the game and could have doubled the lead, Raheem Sterling coming closest when he swept just wide from 12 yards after more good work from Johnson.
In the 36th minute, the home side drew level when referee Lee Probert awarded a penalty as Joe Allen handled Mohamed Diame’s volley from the edge of the box. The Reds protested against the decision in vain before Noble stepped up to calmly slot the kick low into the left corner.
Kevin Nolan headed just over the bar from close range but the Hammers took the lead two minutes before the break in comical circumstances. Matt Jarvis swung in a vicious cross from the right and, as several player strained to get a touch, Gerrard could only head the ball into his own net.
The pace of the game dropped immediately after the break as West Ham looked to consolidate the lead, but Liverpool came storming back in the final quarter of the match.
In the 67th minute, Sterling forced Hammers goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen into a fingertip save with a powerful left-footed shot from the edge of the penalty area.
The day was soured for West Ham as the excellent Diame was taken off the field on a stretcher 17 minutes from time after picking up what appeared to be a serious hamstring injury.
It got even worse as Sterling slipped in Cole with a delightful pass, and the forgotten man kept his cool to sweep home a lovely finish into the far corner with his weaker left foot.
Three minutes later Shelvey got on substitute Jordan Henderson’s cross, his flicked effort hitting Collins before spinning over Jaaskelainen into the net. A breathless, brilliant victory for the Merseyside club.
Rooney hits a pair of landmarks in Man United's derby triumph over Man City
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney enjoyed a pair of personal milestones in his club's dramatic 3-2 victory over Manchester City, with his two first-half goals at Etihad Stadium adding to his extensive playing resume.
Rooney's double helped him crack the 150-goal barrier, taking the 27-year-old forward to 151 Premier League goals all-time and becoming the youngest member of the exclusive company. A record-breaking 10 of those have come in Manchester derbies, with Rooney snapping the mark of nine previously held by Sir Bobby Charlton.
"Of course, it's great to score here, but it doesn't matter whether it's against City or not," Rooney told Sky Sports. "I'm scoring for Manchester United and enjoying it. Obviously it's a great day for us to win here. They've had a great home record and to spoil that is a great feeling.
Having lost at home and away in the league to their rivals last season, the England man's two goals put the Red Devils in front before Robin van Persie put down a City comeback with his stoppage-time free kick.
"It's fantastic. It's great for us to go six points clear against our closest rivals, especially after what happened last year. We've waited a long time for this to happen," Rooney said. "[The game was] crazy," Rooney added. "It's been like that all season for us.
"To lose a two-goal lead ... to be fair, we were hanging on a bit at the end. They had a couple of chances and a bit of magic got us the three points."
Van Persie's late strike capped a fine performance in his first Manchester derby but the Dutchman remarked of his goal, "Anything will do – just to win. We had a good start because of Wayne, two really good, clinical finishes, good attacks and then we went into control, which was good.
"City always come back and we knew that so it's a really special way to end this game, to get the three points in a dramatic way.
"Wazza asked me [before the free kick], he said, 'What are you gonna do? Are you gonna shoot or are you gonna cross it?' I said, 'I think I'll have a shot.'"
Sir Alex Ferguson: Winning the Premier League will still be a real challenge despite derby triumph
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists it is still far too early to say who has the advantage in this season’s Premier League title race, despite his side’s 3-2 win over nearest challenger and rival Manchester City on Sunday.
In a dramatic derby clash, United raced into a two-goal lead thanks to a first-half double from Wayne Rooney. The champions launched a strong comeback after the break as Yaya Toure and Pablo Zabaleta strikes got them back on level terms. There was a final twist in the tale, though, when Robin van Persie curled home a stoppage-time free kick to give the visitors all three points, which takes them six clear at the top of the table.
"It is too early to draw any conclusions about the title race," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "City will be fresh for the second half of the season – they are out of European football - but we will still have Europe, the FA Cup and the league to contend with. That means we will have a real challenge but we have always accepted these challenges.
"This doesn’t make up for last year’s derby defeats yet. There is still a long way to go this season, but I’ve not known many more dramatic days than that in the past. We’ve done it before against City of course, but today was a special one simply because they haven’t lost at home for two years and both of us are contesting with each other at the top of the league.
"It was a fantastic game; you couldn’t take your eyes off it. I absolutely thought we were worthy winners. We played very well and should have finished the game off before we did."
Sir Alex was unhappy with the decision to rule out an Ashley Young goal for offside with the score at 2-0, which he felt was a key turning point in the match, and the incident that prompted City’s recovery in the second half.
"We should have been 3-0 up after scoring a goal that was perfectly onside and then they go up the park and score," he said. "Football is a funny game. That’s the sort of moments in a match that can kill you and football can kick you in the teeth in that way.
"After that goal they scored a second one and at that point they deserved it. They had come back into the game, were fighting like hell and gambled everything with three strikers on. But up until that first goal I thought we were far better than them."
The United boss was delighted with the performance of match-winner Van Persie and seemed even more satisfied with the improvement his side showed in comparison to last season’s crucial derby defeat at the Etihad Stadium, where a tame 1-0 loss eventually cost them the league.
"The free kick has taken a deflection but it is an exceptional hit. Van Persie’s overall game today was absolutely terrific; he kept them on the back foot for the whole match really," Ferguson said. "I think we can be proud of the fact that opposed to what we did last year where we stood off too much and gave them far too much respect, there was a much better team spirit about us and the players were determined to win the match."
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists it is still far too early to say who has the advantage in this season’s Premier League title race, despite his side’s 3-2 win over nearest challenger and rival Manchester City on Sunday.
In a dramatic derby clash, United raced into a two-goal lead thanks to a first-half double from Wayne Rooney. The champions launched a strong comeback after the break as Yaya Toure and Pablo Zabaleta strikes got them back on level terms. There was a final twist in the tale, though, when Robin van Persie curled home a stoppage-time free kick to give the visitors all three points, which takes them six clear at the top of the table.
"It is too early to draw any conclusions about the title race," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "City will be fresh for the second half of the season – they are out of European football - but we will still have Europe, the FA Cup and the league to contend with. That means we will have a real challenge but we have always accepted these challenges.
"This doesn’t make up for last year’s derby defeats yet. There is still a long way to go this season, but I’ve not known many more dramatic days than that in the past. We’ve done it before against City of course, but today was a special one simply because they haven’t lost at home for two years and both of us are contesting with each other at the top of the league.
"It was a fantastic game; you couldn’t take your eyes off it. I absolutely thought we were worthy winners. We played very well and should have finished the game off before we did."
Sir Alex was unhappy with the decision to rule out an Ashley Young goal for offside with the score at 2-0, which he felt was a key turning point in the match, and the incident that prompted City’s recovery in the second half.
"We should have been 3-0 up after scoring a goal that was perfectly onside and then they go up the park and score," he said. "Football is a funny game. That’s the sort of moments in a match that can kill you and football can kick you in the teeth in that way.
"After that goal they scored a second one and at that point they deserved it. They had come back into the game, were fighting like hell and gambled everything with three strikers on. But up until that first goal I thought we were far better than them."
The United boss was delighted with the performance of match-winner Van Persie and seemed even more satisfied with the improvement his side showed in comparison to last season’s crucial derby defeat at the Etihad Stadium, where a tame 1-0 loss eventually cost them the league.
"The free kick has taken a deflection but it is an exceptional hit. Van Persie’s overall game today was absolutely terrific; he kept them on the back foot for the whole match really," Ferguson said. "I think we can be proud of the fact that opposed to what we did last year where we stood off too much and gave them far too much respect, there was a much better team spirit about us and the players were determined to win the match."
Manchester United boss Ferguson condemns Ferdinand coin attack during derby victory over City
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the Manchester City fans who disrupted the end of the Red Devils' 3-2 derby victory at the Etihad, which involved a flung coin striking defender http://www.goal.com/en/people/england/1941/rio-ferdinandRio Ferdinand in the face.
After Yaya Toure and Pablo Zabaleta cancelled out Wayne Rooney's first-half double, Robin van Persie struck a winning free kick in injury time provoking an angry response from the home fans that resulted in the object hitting Ferdinand above the eye and drawing blood.
A City fan also managed to force his way through the stewards to get on the pitch and remonstrate with referee Martin Atkinson before being restrained by City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
"It is just unfortunate at the end that a City fan ran on the pitch and that they threw coins at our players. You really don't need things like that," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "The same thing happened at Chelsea, which was a bit masked by everything else that happened that day. It was a fantastic game of football between two fantastic teams and we could have done without that."
Replays show the defender being struck by a coin while celebrating, before clutching his shirt to the wound and being escorted off the pitch by a match official.
Ferdinand has since taken to Twitter to comment on the game and incident, writing: "what a result,3points! Sweet! Whoever threw that coin,what a shot! Can't believe it was a copper 2p....could have at least been a £1 coin."
A Manchester City spokesperson has since apologized to the United defender, stating, "We apologize to Rio. We condemn the actions of the individual concerned. We are reviewing the CCTV with the police and our normal security. We will support the police with any investigation and hopefully identify the person as soon as possible."
Greater Manchester Police said no arrests have been made in relation to the attack on Ferdinand, but in an unrelated incident, a man was arrested on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offense during the game after racist chanting was heard by officers.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the Manchester City fans who disrupted the end of the Red Devils' 3-2 derby victory at the Etihad, which involved a flung coin striking defender http://www.goal.com/en/people/england/1941/rio-ferdinandRio Ferdinand in the face.
After Yaya Toure and Pablo Zabaleta cancelled out Wayne Rooney's first-half double, Robin van Persie struck a winning free kick in injury time provoking an angry response from the home fans that resulted in the object hitting Ferdinand above the eye and drawing blood.
A City fan also managed to force his way through the stewards to get on the pitch and remonstrate with referee Martin Atkinson before being restrained by City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
"It is just unfortunate at the end that a City fan ran on the pitch and that they threw coins at our players. You really don't need things like that," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "The same thing happened at Chelsea, which was a bit masked by everything else that happened that day. It was a fantastic game of football between two fantastic teams and we could have done without that."
Replays show the defender being struck by a coin while celebrating, before clutching his shirt to the wound and being escorted off the pitch by a match official.
Ferdinand has since taken to Twitter to comment on the game and incident, writing: "what a result,3points! Sweet! Whoever threw that coin,what a shot! Can't believe it was a copper 2p....could have at least been a £1 coin."
A Manchester City spokesperson has since apologized to the United defender, stating, "We apologize to Rio. We condemn the actions of the individual concerned. We are reviewing the CCTV with the police and our normal security. We will support the police with any investigation and hopefully identify the person as soon as possible."
Greater Manchester Police said no arrests have been made in relation to the attack on Ferdinand, but in an unrelated incident, a man was arrested on suspicion of committing a racially aggravated public order offense during the game after racist chanting was heard by officers.
Messi tops Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year
Lionel Messi has matched and topped Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year.
The Barcelona man pulled even with his first goal against Betis on Sunday night and then pushed past the prolific Germany with his second, meaning he had notched up the tally in 66 games.
It took Muller just 60 appearances to set the previous record in 1972.
The Argentine started 2012 with two goals against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey, and regularly notched up doubles and trebles throughout the year for both club and country.
Heading into the night he had scored exactly two goals on 20 occasions, and at least three strikes nine times, including a five-goal haul against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.
Muller hit 42 Bundesliga goals in 34 outings to fire Bayern Munich to the German title in 1971-72 and eventually 1972-73, and he also played an integral role in West Germany's European Championship victory. He scored five goals in the four finals games it took die Mannschaft to lift the trophy under the old format.
Muller was also boosted by Bayern's run of 21 matches in 37 days during the traditional preseason period. Due to the summer Olympics that year, the German domestic football season was pushed back until September 16, so a new competition - the DFB-Ligapokal (League Cup) - was hastily introduced to ward off rustiness.
Muller scored 12 goals in five games in that maiden campaign, while he scored 10 goals against Galatasaray and Omonia Nicosia in the opening stages of the old European Cup.
Lionel Messi has matched and topped Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year.
The Barcelona man pulled even with his first goal against Betis on Sunday night and then pushed past the prolific Germany with his second, meaning he had notched up the tally in 66 games.
It took Muller just 60 appearances to set the previous record in 1972.
The Argentine started 2012 with two goals against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey, and regularly notched up doubles and trebles throughout the year for both club and country.
Heading into the night he had scored exactly two goals on 20 occasions, and at least three strikes nine times, including a five-goal haul against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.
Muller hit 42 Bundesliga goals in 34 outings to fire Bayern Munich to the German title in 1971-72 and eventually 1972-73, and he also played an integral role in West Germany's European Championship victory. He scored five goals in the four finals games it took die Mannschaft to lift the trophy under the old format.
Muller was also boosted by Bayern's run of 21 matches in 37 days during the traditional preseason period. Due to the summer Olympics that year, the German domestic football season was pushed back until September 16, so a new competition - the DFB-Ligapokal (League Cup) - was hastily introduced to ward off rustiness.
Muller scored 12 goals in five games in that maiden campaign, while he scored 10 goals against Galatasaray and Omonia Nicosia in the opening stages of the old European Cup.
Chelsea striker Torres hails boosted confidence
Fernando Torres has hailed Chelsea's improving confidence after his double fired the Blues to victory over Premier League struggler Sunderland.
The Blues suffered from a slump in November that cost Roberto Di Matteo his job and saw Rafael Benitez afforded a frosty welcome to the manager's job.
Torres revealed the team is still adapting to new tactics being implemented by Benitez, but believes things are starting to click again among the players.
Speaking on the Chelsea website, Torres said: "We are playing a bit differently.We don't pass the ball as much as we did before in the final third of the pitch and we try to play more direct, and explode the players forward with Victor Moses or me or Eden Hazard on the left.
"We are using the quality of Oscar or Mata in the middle and we are attacking more and making more chances.
"We are working as a team, as we did in the beginning of the season with Robbie [Di Matteo], but normally takes some time when a new manager arrives and changes things like this, but the results last Wednesday and on Saturday are going to give us more confidence, the only thing we need now."
After hitting four goals in his last two games, the Spanish striker is keen to continue his scoring ways in upcoming Premier League fixtures.
Torres concluded: "It was a long time for me not scoring in the Premier League but coming after two goals three days before in the Champions League, I am very happy to get back to scoring, especially as the team starts winning."
Fernando Torres has hailed Chelsea's improving confidence after his double fired the Blues to victory over Premier League struggler Sunderland.
The Blues suffered from a slump in November that cost Roberto Di Matteo his job and saw Rafael Benitez afforded a frosty welcome to the manager's job.
Torres revealed the team is still adapting to new tactics being implemented by Benitez, but believes things are starting to click again among the players.
Speaking on the Chelsea website, Torres said: "We are playing a bit differently.We don't pass the ball as much as we did before in the final third of the pitch and we try to play more direct, and explode the players forward with Victor Moses or me or Eden Hazard on the left.
"We are using the quality of Oscar or Mata in the middle and we are attacking more and making more chances.
"We are working as a team, as we did in the beginning of the season with Robbie [Di Matteo], but normally takes some time when a new manager arrives and changes things like this, but the results last Wednesday and on Saturday are going to give us more confidence, the only thing we need now."
After hitting four goals in his last two games, the Spanish striker is keen to continue his scoring ways in upcoming Premier League fixtures.
Torres concluded: "It was a long time for me not scoring in the Premier League but coming after two goals three days before in the Champions League, I am very happy to get back to scoring, especially as the team starts winning."
Evra flattered by PSG interest but happy to stay at Manchester United
Manchester United full back Patrice Evra admits he is flattered by the reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain but insists he is happy to remain at Old Trafford.
The France international's contract at the Premier League leaders expires at the end of next season but he has seen his place in the side come into question after a poor spell of form, coupled with the Red Devils' purchase of Alexander Buttner to provide competition at left back.
With speculation rife that the club has also set its sights on Everton's Leighton Baines, rumors have began to emanate from France that the big-spending Parisiens, who have also reportedly made Chelsea's Ashley Cole a transfer target, could be set to make a move for the former national team captain.
However, speaking to Canal+, Evra confirmed that a move away from Old Trafford is unlikely at this stage.
He said: "This is the club from the capital, I have never hidden my love for Paris, even if Monaco will stay my club.
"It always hurts my heart to see the club not win the championship or qualify for the Champions League.
"It is always a pleasure that Paris is interested by me, especially because I'm Parisian, but you will have to kill [Sir Alex] Ferguson before I come to Paris. There is nothing done and I'm happy in Manchester."
Evra played the full 90 minutes as Sir Alex Ferguson's men stretched their lead at the top to six points by ending second-placed local rival Manchester City's unbeaten league record with a 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of a double from Wayne Rooney and a last minute winner from Robin van Persie.
Manchester United full back Patrice Evra admits he is flattered by the reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain but insists he is happy to remain at Old Trafford.
The France international's contract at the Premier League leaders expires at the end of next season but he has seen his place in the side come into question after a poor spell of form, coupled with the Red Devils' purchase of Alexander Buttner to provide competition at left back.
With speculation rife that the club has also set its sights on Everton's Leighton Baines, rumors have began to emanate from France that the big-spending Parisiens, who have also reportedly made Chelsea's Ashley Cole a transfer target, could be set to make a move for the former national team captain.
However, speaking to Canal+, Evra confirmed that a move away from Old Trafford is unlikely at this stage.
He said: "This is the club from the capital, I have never hidden my love for Paris, even if Monaco will stay my club.
"It always hurts my heart to see the club not win the championship or qualify for the Champions League.
"It is always a pleasure that Paris is interested by me, especially because I'm Parisian, but you will have to kill [Sir Alex] Ferguson before I come to Paris. There is nothing done and I'm happy in Manchester."
Evra played the full 90 minutes as Sir Alex Ferguson's men stretched their lead at the top to six points by ending second-placed local rival Manchester City's unbeaten league record with a 3-2 win at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of a double from Wayne Rooney and a last minute winner from Robin van Persie.
Messi: Iniesta deserves to win the Ballon d'Or
Lionel Messi believes Andres Iniesta deserves to win the Ballon d'Or following Barcelona's 2-1 win Liga win over Betis on Sunday.
The forward's double against the Andalusians saw him further his scoring tally to 86 for 2012 and break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year.
But despite surpassing the German, Messi opted to praise his teammate and says he fully merits claiming the prestigious individual accolade on the grounds of his contribution to the Blaugrana cause.
"I would not mind giving the Ballon d'Or to Andres," the 25-year-old told reporters. "He deserves it for how well he and the team are doing."
Messi's second goal also proved vital in the context of the match at the Benito Villamarin, as Ruben Castro scored a consolation for Betis, and he believes the victory was more important than breaking Muller's feat.
"As it is often said, it is very nice to beat [Muller's] record, but the important thing is maintaining a gap ahead of our rivals," he added.
"It was very hard to come here. Betis are doing well in the league so it was a very important victory."
Lionel Messi believes Andres Iniesta deserves to win the Ballon d'Or following Barcelona's 2-1 win Liga win over Betis on Sunday.
The forward's double against the Andalusians saw him further his scoring tally to 86 for 2012 and break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year.
But despite surpassing the German, Messi opted to praise his teammate and says he fully merits claiming the prestigious individual accolade on the grounds of his contribution to the Blaugrana cause.
"I would not mind giving the Ballon d'Or to Andres," the 25-year-old told reporters. "He deserves it for how well he and the team are doing."
Messi's second goal also proved vital in the context of the match at the Benito Villamarin, as Ruben Castro scored a consolation for Betis, and he believes the victory was more important than breaking Muller's feat.
"As it is often said, it is very nice to beat [Muller's] record, but the important thing is maintaining a gap ahead of our rivals," he added.
"It was very hard to come here. Betis are doing well in the league so it was a very important victory."
Vilanova: Messi made it look easy
Tito Vilanova has hailed Lionel Messi for making his record-breaking exploits look easy following Barcelona's 2-1 win over Betis on Sunday.
The 25-year-old netted twice at the Benito Villamarin to break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year. But though it is a feat that has delighted his coach, the Blaugrana boss does not want his team's performance to be neglected.
"I am happy with all my players," he told reporters. "We have always given our best.
"We are happy that [Messi] helped us with his two goals. He made his record look easy and still has a further three games to continue to help us.
"However, I think you should also remember the team and our defensive solidity. We had to suffer [at Betis], we knew it would not be easy, so it wasn't a coincidence."
Andres Iniesta, who Messi claimed deserves to win the Ballon d'Or, wrote on his official Twitter account: "We are well aware of the intensity needed to get these three points, [we are a] great team! Congratulations Leo!"
Goalkeeper Victor Valdes was equally happy for his teammate and posted a tweet saluting his efforts: "What a great match! As always, it was a complicated 90 minutes. Congratulations to Leo for having surpassed the record! Good night!"
Tito Vilanova has hailed Lionel Messi for making his record-breaking exploits look easy following Barcelona's 2-1 win over Betis on Sunday.
The 25-year-old netted twice at the Benito Villamarin to break Gerd Muller's record of 85 goals in a calendar year. But though it is a feat that has delighted his coach, the Blaugrana boss does not want his team's performance to be neglected.
"I am happy with all my players," he told reporters. "We have always given our best.
"We are happy that [Messi] helped us with his two goals. He made his record look easy and still has a further three games to continue to help us.
"However, I think you should also remember the team and our defensive solidity. We had to suffer [at Betis], we knew it would not be easy, so it wasn't a coincidence."
Andres Iniesta, who Messi claimed deserves to win the Ballon d'Or, wrote on his official Twitter account: "We are well aware of the intensity needed to get these three points, [we are a] great team! Congratulations Leo!"
Goalkeeper Victor Valdes was equally happy for his teammate and posted a tweet saluting his efforts: "What a great match! As always, it was a complicated 90 minutes. Congratulations to Leo for having surpassed the record! Good night!"
Sunderland 3-0 Reading: McClean, Fletcher and Sessegnon ease pressure on O’Neill
Sunderland won its first Premier League game in five outings, as the Black Cats overcame a disappointing Reading side 3-0, getting a goal apiece from James McClean, Steven Fletcher and Stephane Sessegnon and ensuring that they moved out of the relegation zone and into 15th place.
Sunderland got off to a fantastic start as, just two minutes in, a fairly innocuous looking corner was flapped at by Adam Federici, his miscued punch eventually falling to McClean on the edge of the box. The winger duly slammed his effort past the melee of bodies and put the home side ahead – a fine effort and a brilliant start for Martin O'Neill's side.
The lead grew after Danny Rose drove to the byline with some excellent wingplay and fired the ball across the area; Fletcher was there to back-heel the ball goalwards and put the Black Cats two ahead.
Despite the Royals attempting to assert themselves on the game, Sunderland proved too strong, and the home side almost managed to nick a third before the close of the half as Fletcher headed narrowly over from a corner.
The Royals improved in the second half, as Simon Mignolet was tested for the first time as an excellent Nicky Shorey free kick that forced him into an equally excellent save. From the ensuing corner, center back Alex Pearce headed over the bar as Reading's pressure persisted.
The away side failed to capitalize on this pressure, though, and with 20 minutes remaining, Sunderland regained control. Sessengon capped proceedings off after receiving a long ball, he rounded Federici to make it 3-0, compounding Reading's misery and securing a vital win for O'Neill's side.
Sunderland won its first Premier League game in five outings, as the Black Cats overcame a disappointing Reading side 3-0, getting a goal apiece from James McClean, Steven Fletcher and Stephane Sessegnon and ensuring that they moved out of the relegation zone and into 15th place.
Sunderland got off to a fantastic start as, just two minutes in, a fairly innocuous looking corner was flapped at by Adam Federici, his miscued punch eventually falling to McClean on the edge of the box. The winger duly slammed his effort past the melee of bodies and put the home side ahead – a fine effort and a brilliant start for Martin O'Neill's side.
The lead grew after Danny Rose drove to the byline with some excellent wingplay and fired the ball across the area; Fletcher was there to back-heel the ball goalwards and put the Black Cats two ahead.
Despite the Royals attempting to assert themselves on the game, Sunderland proved too strong, and the home side almost managed to nick a third before the close of the half as Fletcher headed narrowly over from a corner.
The Royals improved in the second half, as Simon Mignolet was tested for the first time as an excellent Nicky Shorey free kick that forced him into an equally excellent save. From the ensuing corner, center back Alex Pearce headed over the bar as Reading's pressure persisted.
The away side failed to capitalize on this pressure, though, and with 20 minutes remaining, Sunderland regained control. Sessengon capped proceedings off after receiving a long ball, he rounded Federici to make it 3-0, compounding Reading's misery and securing a vital win for O'Neill's side.
Bradford 1-1 Arsenal (aet, 3-2 on penalties): Vermaelen miss sends Gunners crashing out
Bradford City pulled off another upset in the Capital One Cup as it beat Arsenal 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation to qualify for the semifinals.
The Bantams took the lead after just 15 minutes thanks to Garry Thompson’s superb volley and both teams created further chances but were unable to take advantage.
The defense almost managed to keep its Premier League opponent at bay throughout the second half, but Vermaelen scored in the 87th minute to force extra time.
Extra time remained goalless and penalties were required to separate these teams, with Bradford prevailing thanks to three misses by the Gunners.
The home side selected its strongest possible team for this fourth round tie, with Gary Jones captaining the Bantams, who currently sit fourth in the League Two table.
Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger selected a strong side, with Jack Wilshere handed a start in the midfield and Gervinho leading the line up front.
The home side took the lead in the 15th minute with their first real chance, as after a free kick caused havoc in the Arsenal box, Thompson volleyed home to give them an early advantage.
Bradford had the momentum after taking a surprise lead, while the away side struggled to penetrate their opponents’ defence.
However, the home side came close to an equalizer in the 37th minute, as after some superb trickery, Francis Coquelin struck an early shot against the post that bounced away to safety.
Gervinho then could not get on the end of a fizzing cross from yards out, then Bradford almost scored a late second as Nahki Wells sent a shot just wide after a James Hanson knock-down.
The Bantams’ confidence was clear and they went into the halftime break ahead after a superb opening period.
It took until the 55th minute for either side to test its opponent’s defense, but Bradford was able to snuff out a long ball played towards Gervinho that he could not get under control.
However, the away side began to increase the pressure as the second half went on, although the best home defense in all of League Two this season managed to hold firm.
It took until the 70th minute for the Gunners to create another real chance as they had their first effort on target through a long-range strike from substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
I t took the Gunners until the 87th minute to find an equalizer and it came thanks to Vermaelen, who headed home from a corner to draw his side level.
The game then went into extra time, with the best chance falling to Santi Cazorla, who hit the bar early in the second period.
However, with neither side able to find another goal, a penalty shootout was to decide which team would go through to the semifinals.
In the shootout, Arsenal hit the woodwork twice while the home side just about held its nerve to take the win and go through to the semis.
Bradford City pulled off another upset in the Capital One Cup as it beat Arsenal 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation to qualify for the semifinals.
The Bantams took the lead after just 15 minutes thanks to Garry Thompson’s superb volley and both teams created further chances but were unable to take advantage.
The defense almost managed to keep its Premier League opponent at bay throughout the second half, but Vermaelen scored in the 87th minute to force extra time.
Extra time remained goalless and penalties were required to separate these teams, with Bradford prevailing thanks to three misses by the Gunners.
The home side selected its strongest possible team for this fourth round tie, with Gary Jones captaining the Bantams, who currently sit fourth in the League Two table.
Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger selected a strong side, with Jack Wilshere handed a start in the midfield and Gervinho leading the line up front.
The home side took the lead in the 15th minute with their first real chance, as after a free kick caused havoc in the Arsenal box, Thompson volleyed home to give them an early advantage.
Bradford had the momentum after taking a surprise lead, while the away side struggled to penetrate their opponents’ defence.
However, the home side came close to an equalizer in the 37th minute, as after some superb trickery, Francis Coquelin struck an early shot against the post that bounced away to safety.
Gervinho then could not get on the end of a fizzing cross from yards out, then Bradford almost scored a late second as Nahki Wells sent a shot just wide after a James Hanson knock-down.
The Bantams’ confidence was clear and they went into the halftime break ahead after a superb opening period.
It took until the 55th minute for either side to test its opponent’s defense, but Bradford was able to snuff out a long ball played towards Gervinho that he could not get under control.
However, the away side began to increase the pressure as the second half went on, although the best home defense in all of League Two this season managed to hold firm.
It took until the 70th minute for the Gunners to create another real chance as they had their first effort on target through a long-range strike from substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
I t took the Gunners until the 87th minute to find an equalizer and it came thanks to Vermaelen, who headed home from a corner to draw his side level.
The game then went into extra time, with the best chance falling to Santi Cazorla, who hit the bar early in the second period.
However, with neither side able to find another goal, a penalty shootout was to decide which team would go through to the semifinals.
In the shootout, Arsenal hit the woodwork twice while the home side just about held its nerve to take the win and go through to the semis.
Norwich 1-4 Aston Villa: Lambert savors triumphant Carrow Road return with Cup win
Aston Villa is through to the Capital One Cup semifinals after beating Norwich City 4-1 in an enthralling encounter at Carrow Road on Tuesday.
The hosts took a deserved lead through Steve Morison after a long ball from goalkeeper Mark Bunn, but Brett Holmann equalized with a great strike seconds later. Despite the match being a quite even battle, Villa got the all important goals late on as an Andreas Weimann double and Christian Benteke tally gave Villa manager Paul Lambert a win against his former side.
The match started at an electric pace, with a marvellous atmosphere the soundtrack at Carrow Road as both side created big chances in the early stages. Robert Snodgrass got down the right before seeing his cross tipped on to the post by Shay Given, who spelled American Brad Guzan in net for the Cup match. Villa went straight down the other end and forced a big save from Bunn as Darren Bent failed to convert when one-on-one.
After two great Villa chances, Norwich marched straight down the other end and Morison stroked the ball past Given after a mistimed header from Nathan Baker played the striker through on goal. The lead lasted a matter of seconds, though.
The visitors proceeded straight to the Norwich goal from kickoff, and after a long ball from the midfield, a combination of Benteke and Leon Barnett saw the ball drop for Holman, and the midfielder lashed a shot home from the edge of the area.
Villa finished the first half on the front foot, but Norwich came out after the break with a quick start as Morison first headed over a great chance, and then chipped an even better effort over the bar before having a goal ruled out for offside.
Both sides were on the offensive late on, but Villa got themselves in front as American fullback Eric Lichaj put in an excellent cross from the left, and after Benteke left it, Weimann nudged it home. The Austrian got his second two minutes later as Benteke stole the ball from Barnett and Bunn before taking his time to pick out Weimann, who knocked the ball home with ease.
The unplayable Benteke rounded off the win with a great strike in the dying moments for good measure as Villa's cup run continues.
Aston Villa is through to the Capital One Cup semifinals after beating Norwich City 4-1 in an enthralling encounter at Carrow Road on Tuesday.
The hosts took a deserved lead through Steve Morison after a long ball from goalkeeper Mark Bunn, but Brett Holmann equalized with a great strike seconds later. Despite the match being a quite even battle, Villa got the all important goals late on as an Andreas Weimann double and Christian Benteke tally gave Villa manager Paul Lambert a win against his former side.
The match started at an electric pace, with a marvellous atmosphere the soundtrack at Carrow Road as both side created big chances in the early stages. Robert Snodgrass got down the right before seeing his cross tipped on to the post by Shay Given, who spelled American Brad Guzan in net for the Cup match. Villa went straight down the other end and forced a big save from Bunn as Darren Bent failed to convert when one-on-one.
After two great Villa chances, Norwich marched straight down the other end and Morison stroked the ball past Given after a mistimed header from Nathan Baker played the striker through on goal. The lead lasted a matter of seconds, though.
The visitors proceeded straight to the Norwich goal from kickoff, and after a long ball from the midfield, a combination of Benteke and Leon Barnett saw the ball drop for Holman, and the midfielder lashed a shot home from the edge of the area.
Villa finished the first half on the front foot, but Norwich came out after the break with a quick start as Morison first headed over a great chance, and then chipped an even better effort over the bar before having a goal ruled out for offside.
Both sides were on the offensive late on, but Villa got themselves in front as American fullback Eric Lichaj put in an excellent cross from the left, and after Benteke left it, Weimann nudged it home. The Austrian got his second two minutes later as Benteke stole the ball from Barnett and Bunn before taking his time to pick out Weimann, who knocked the ball home with ease.
The unplayable Benteke rounded off the win with a great strike in the dying moments for good measure as Villa's cup run continues.
Valenciennes 0-4 Paris Saint-Germain: Ibrahimovic hits a hat trick
Paris Saint-Germain produced a devastating display to dispatch Valenciennes 4-0 at Stade du Hainaut and close the gap on league leader Olympique Lyonnais.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic once again grabbed the headlines as he netted his first ever hat trick in Ligue 1 and Ezequiel Lavezzi added a fourth late on as les Parisiens delivered their most potent performance since Carlo Ancelotti took charge.
Valenciennes started the match the brighter and the home side found itself threatening Salvatore Sirigu’s goal on a few occasions early on.
Carlos Sanchez was the first to try his luck from range but his effort swerved just wide of goal. David Ducourtioux then forced Sirigu into a fine stop, the Italian having to get down quickly to tip the fullback’s effort round the post.
France Under-21 defender Nicolas Isimat-Mirin’s flicked header from a corner then forced Sirigu into a punched clearance, as Ancelotti’s side struggled to contain their opponents.PSG began to assert itself on the game after 20 minutes and Lavezzi was the first to cause les Atheniens any real scare.
Nicolas Penneteau had only had a couple of ambitious Ibrahimovic free kicks to deal with when the Argentine exchanged a neat one-two with his fellow countryman Javier Pastore and curled an effort just wide of the upright from the edge of the area.
Pastore then wasted a good opportunity to deliver a decent ball into the area when he decided to take aim from a tight angle instead of cutting the ball back, but the visitors took the lead soon after.Pastore and Jeremy Menez linked well down the right flank and when Menez's cross was only clawed out to the edge of the area by Penneteau, Lavezzi's low drive was diverted into the net by Ibrahimovic from close range.
That goal appeared to deflate the home side and the only further action in the opening half was the injury picked up by Alex, which saw him replaced by Mamadou Sakho.
The game as a contest was effectively ended within the opening 10 minutes of the second half, as Ligue 1’s top goalscorer quickly completed his hat trick to help PSG to a three-goal lead.
Ibrahimovic’s second came just four minutes after the restart when Pastore’s wicked volley from Rudy Mater’s clearance was palmed straight into the path of the Swede, who made no mistake from six-yards out.The former Barcelona and AC Milan man then wrapped up his first ever treble in France four minutes later, with his easiest finish of the night.
Lavezzi released Menez into acres of space behind the Valenciennes backline and he drove towards goal and drew out Penneteau, allowing him to square for the unmarked Ibrahimovic to roll the ball into an empty goal.
Menez should have added a fourth when the hat trick hero tried to repay the favour, but the former Roma midfielder scooped his effort over the bar when his team-mate had unselfishly turned the ball back into his path from six-yards out.
Blaise Matuidi struck the post soon after, but the visitors were not to be denied a fourth as Lavezzi collected substitute Marco Verratti’s pass and turned his marker brilliantly before slotting past a hapless Penneteau.
The win sees Lyon's lead at the top cut to just two points, while Valenciennes stays in fifth place after its heavy defeat.
Paris Saint-Germain produced a devastating display to dispatch Valenciennes 4-0 at Stade du Hainaut and close the gap on league leader Olympique Lyonnais.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic once again grabbed the headlines as he netted his first ever hat trick in Ligue 1 and Ezequiel Lavezzi added a fourth late on as les Parisiens delivered their most potent performance since Carlo Ancelotti took charge.
Valenciennes started the match the brighter and the home side found itself threatening Salvatore Sirigu’s goal on a few occasions early on.
Carlos Sanchez was the first to try his luck from range but his effort swerved just wide of goal. David Ducourtioux then forced Sirigu into a fine stop, the Italian having to get down quickly to tip the fullback’s effort round the post.
France Under-21 defender Nicolas Isimat-Mirin’s flicked header from a corner then forced Sirigu into a punched clearance, as Ancelotti’s side struggled to contain their opponents.PSG began to assert itself on the game after 20 minutes and Lavezzi was the first to cause les Atheniens any real scare.
Nicolas Penneteau had only had a couple of ambitious Ibrahimovic free kicks to deal with when the Argentine exchanged a neat one-two with his fellow countryman Javier Pastore and curled an effort just wide of the upright from the edge of the area.
Pastore then wasted a good opportunity to deliver a decent ball into the area when he decided to take aim from a tight angle instead of cutting the ball back, but the visitors took the lead soon after.Pastore and Jeremy Menez linked well down the right flank and when Menez's cross was only clawed out to the edge of the area by Penneteau, Lavezzi's low drive was diverted into the net by Ibrahimovic from close range.
That goal appeared to deflate the home side and the only further action in the opening half was the injury picked up by Alex, which saw him replaced by Mamadou Sakho.
The game as a contest was effectively ended within the opening 10 minutes of the second half, as Ligue 1’s top goalscorer quickly completed his hat trick to help PSG to a three-goal lead.
Ibrahimovic’s second came just four minutes after the restart when Pastore’s wicked volley from Rudy Mater’s clearance was palmed straight into the path of the Swede, who made no mistake from six-yards out.The former Barcelona and AC Milan man then wrapped up his first ever treble in France four minutes later, with his easiest finish of the night.
Lavezzi released Menez into acres of space behind the Valenciennes backline and he drove towards goal and drew out Penneteau, allowing him to square for the unmarked Ibrahimovic to roll the ball into an empty goal.
Menez should have added a fourth when the hat trick hero tried to repay the favour, but the former Roma midfielder scooped his effort over the bar when his team-mate had unselfishly turned the ball back into his path from six-yards out.
Blaise Matuidi struck the post soon after, but the visitors were not to be denied a fourth as Lavezzi collected substitute Marco Verratti’s pass and turned his marker brilliantly before slotting past a hapless Penneteau.
The win sees Lyon's lead at the top cut to just two points, while Valenciennes stays in fifth place after its heavy defeat.
Al-Ahly 0-1 Corinthians: Guerrero goal sends Brazilians through to Club World Cup final
A well-taken headed goal from Paulo Guerrero was enough to send Corinthians into the final of the Club World Cup, as the club defeated Al-Ahly 1-0 in the semifinal at the Toyota Stadium in Japan.
The Brazilian side took a deserved 1-0 lead when Guerrero headed Douglas' inch-perfect cross past the Al-Ahly goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy in the first half, and despite the African opponent improving after the break an equalizing goal never materialized.
Corinthians, making its first appearance in the tournament since winning the inaugural edition 12 years ago, had a reported 20,000 fans in the stadium and it certainly sounded like an accurate figure as Timao's supporters urged them on from kickoff.
It was the Copa Libertadores champion that fashioned the first shooting opportunity of the match, with attacking midfielder Douglas flashing a half volley just wide from a difficult position outside the Al-Ahly penalty area.
That Douglas chance seemed to spark Al-Ahly into life, as after nearly going behind the club immediately went up the other end and threatened to break the deadlock. Ramy Rabia was the player who came close, as his header from a fine Walid Soliman cross from the right drifted off target.
Corinthians' first-half dominance finally paid off in the 30th minute when the Brazilians went 1-0 up through Guerrero. The former Bayern Munich forward headed Tite's side into the lead after connecting well with an audacious cross from the outside of the left boot of Douglas.
Mohamed Aboutrika's influence on the game after coming on as a substitute grew as the match wore on, but even with his probing play Al-Ahly failed to find an equalizer, as Corinthians held out for a narrow 1-0 victory.
Tite's team will now face the winner of the semifinal between Chelsea and Monterrey, with the final being held at the International Stadium in Yokohama on Dec. 16.
A well-taken headed goal from Paulo Guerrero was enough to send Corinthians into the final of the Club World Cup, as the club defeated Al-Ahly 1-0 in the semifinal at the Toyota Stadium in Japan.
The Brazilian side took a deserved 1-0 lead when Guerrero headed Douglas' inch-perfect cross past the Al-Ahly goalkeeper Sherif Ekramy in the first half, and despite the African opponent improving after the break an equalizing goal never materialized.
Corinthians, making its first appearance in the tournament since winning the inaugural edition 12 years ago, had a reported 20,000 fans in the stadium and it certainly sounded like an accurate figure as Timao's supporters urged them on from kickoff.
It was the Copa Libertadores champion that fashioned the first shooting opportunity of the match, with attacking midfielder Douglas flashing a half volley just wide from a difficult position outside the Al-Ahly penalty area.
That Douglas chance seemed to spark Al-Ahly into life, as after nearly going behind the club immediately went up the other end and threatened to break the deadlock. Ramy Rabia was the player who came close, as his header from a fine Walid Soliman cross from the right drifted off target.
Corinthians' first-half dominance finally paid off in the 30th minute when the Brazilians went 1-0 up through Guerrero. The former Bayern Munich forward headed Tite's side into the lead after connecting well with an audacious cross from the outside of the left boot of Douglas.
Mohamed Aboutrika's influence on the game after coming on as a substitute grew as the match wore on, but even with his probing play Al-Ahly failed to find an equalizer, as Corinthians held out for a narrow 1-0 victory.
Tite's team will now face the winner of the semifinal between Chelsea and Monterrey, with the final being held at the International Stadium in Yokohama on Dec. 16.
Pjanic: Roma heading in right direction
Miralem Pjanic believes Roma's improved performances over the past few weeks serves as evidence that the club is "heading in the right direction".
The Giallorossi initially struggled to find their best form, but they have climbed to fifth spot in the Serie A table after collecting maximum points from their last four games, while also booking their place in the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia.
"We are satisfied with what we have done so far and must keep this up. We have two more games before Christmas and have to remain focused," the former Olympique Lyonnais star was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.
He added, "Winning games helps you to win even more. We are heading in the right direction and the other teams will start fearing us a bit.
"We respect our opponents, but we're confident that we're on the right track."
Roma resumes Serie A action away to Chievo on Sunday.
Miralem Pjanic believes Roma's improved performances over the past few weeks serves as evidence that the club is "heading in the right direction".
The Giallorossi initially struggled to find their best form, but they have climbed to fifth spot in the Serie A table after collecting maximum points from their last four games, while also booking their place in the quarter-finals of the Coppa Italia.
"We are satisfied with what we have done so far and must keep this up. We have two more games before Christmas and have to remain focused," the former Olympique Lyonnais star was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.
He added, "Winning games helps you to win even more. We are heading in the right direction and the other teams will start fearing us a bit.
"We respect our opponents, but we're confident that we're on the right track."
Roma resumes Serie A action away to Chievo on Sunday.
'A centimeter either side and Rio loses an eye' - Giggs condemns Manchester City coin controversyc
Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has condemed the actions of a Manchester City fan who threw a coin at teammate Rio Ferdinand.
The incident occurred at the end of a frantic Manchester Derby, when Ferdinand was struck just above the eye by a coin thrown from a supporter in the City end moments after Robin van Persie's last-gasp winner to hand Sir Alex Ferguson's side a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Despite a total of nine people being charged after the game at the Etihad Stadium, though, the fan responsible for injuring Ferdinand has yet to be identified by the police, and Giggs has also called for action to be taken to prevent anything similar happening in the future.
"It happens; I think it's tough for someone to get hit in the face, for everyone to sort of make a big a thing out of it," Giggs told reporters. "I got hit at Chelsea when Javier Hernandez scored. It's not just one club, it's not just City, it's not just Chelsea.
"Every club, the excitement and the passion we all want but we don't want it to tip over the edge. A centimeter either side and Rio loses an eye, it's so dangerous. We don't want to see it. It is up to the clubs and the police, the FA to do everything in our power to make sure it doesn't happen again."
There have been suggestions that Ferdinand may have been partially responsible for the incident for celebrating in such a near proximity to the home fans. Giggs, though, who was an unused substitute on the day, has defended his teammate’s right to celebrate such an important goal and believes the closeness of the home and away fans in the ground contributed to the incident.
"As a player you want to celebrate. When you score a goal like that you don't have control of yourself," Giggs said. "First of all, it's tough at City, because their hardcore supporters are right next to our supporters. When they are so close together how can you determine whether you are just celebrating in front of United fans?
"If you just scored that goal and walked back to the center circle, United fans would want to know 'What's going on there?' The manager would be like 'What you doing? Celebrate'. We have stamped it out going into the crowd, you get an instant booking. You have still got to enjoy that sort of experience, but obviously the players and fans can't go too far."
Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has condemed the actions of a Manchester City fan who threw a coin at teammate Rio Ferdinand.
The incident occurred at the end of a frantic Manchester Derby, when Ferdinand was struck just above the eye by a coin thrown from a supporter in the City end moments after Robin van Persie's last-gasp winner to hand Sir Alex Ferguson's side a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Despite a total of nine people being charged after the game at the Etihad Stadium, though, the fan responsible for injuring Ferdinand has yet to be identified by the police, and Giggs has also called for action to be taken to prevent anything similar happening in the future.
"It happens; I think it's tough for someone to get hit in the face, for everyone to sort of make a big a thing out of it," Giggs told reporters. "I got hit at Chelsea when Javier Hernandez scored. It's not just one club, it's not just City, it's not just Chelsea.
"Every club, the excitement and the passion we all want but we don't want it to tip over the edge. A centimeter either side and Rio loses an eye, it's so dangerous. We don't want to see it. It is up to the clubs and the police, the FA to do everything in our power to make sure it doesn't happen again."
There have been suggestions that Ferdinand may have been partially responsible for the incident for celebrating in such a near proximity to the home fans. Giggs, though, who was an unused substitute on the day, has defended his teammate’s right to celebrate such an important goal and believes the closeness of the home and away fans in the ground contributed to the incident.
"As a player you want to celebrate. When you score a goal like that you don't have control of yourself," Giggs said. "First of all, it's tough at City, because their hardcore supporters are right next to our supporters. When they are so close together how can you determine whether you are just celebrating in front of United fans?
"If you just scored that goal and walked back to the center circle, United fans would want to know 'What's going on there?' The manager would be like 'What you doing? Celebrate'. We have stamped it out going into the crowd, you get an instant booking. You have still got to enjoy that sort of experience, but obviously the players and fans can't go too far."
Wenger blames poor finishing for shock Arsenal defeat
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has defended his players after their penalty shootout defeat to Bradford City in the Capital One Cup but admitted the loss stemmed in part from their poor finishing.
The Gunners were defeated 3-2 on penalties after three players missed their spot kicks, and the Frenchman blamed his side's inability to convert their chances for the defeat.
"I must congratulate Bradford, they had a good start then defended well," Wenger told Sky Sports. "What happened, happened with the penalty shootout. We had many chances, the goalkeeper had a good game and we could not convert them.
"There was no lack of quality, we did not convert our chances for different reasons. It was a real cup game."
Wenger did reserve some praise for the home side, which defended resolutely for the whole game and made life difficult for Arsenal throughout.
"We lost on penalties against a team that defended well," he continued. "I cannot fault the effort of the team. They gave everything, but credit to Bradford, it is part of the game.
"When you go out of a cup, it is never good enough for Arsenal."
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has defended his players after their penalty shootout defeat to Bradford City in the Capital One Cup but admitted the loss stemmed in part from their poor finishing.
The Gunners were defeated 3-2 on penalties after three players missed their spot kicks, and the Frenchman blamed his side's inability to convert their chances for the defeat.
"I must congratulate Bradford, they had a good start then defended well," Wenger told Sky Sports. "What happened, happened with the penalty shootout. We had many chances, the goalkeeper had a good game and we could not convert them.
"There was no lack of quality, we did not convert our chances for different reasons. It was a real cup game."
Wenger did reserve some praise for the home side, which defended resolutely for the whole game and made life difficult for Arsenal throughout.
"We lost on penalties against a team that defended well," he continued. "I cannot fault the effort of the team. They gave everything, but credit to Bradford, it is part of the game.
"When you go out of a cup, it is never good enough for Arsenal."
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