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Inter 1-1 Sampdoria: Renan rescues point for visitors
Renan Garcia's stunning 25-yard strike in the 89th minute saw Sampdoria claim a deserved 1-1 Serie A draw at Inter on Sunday.
The 27-year-old Brazilian – who had not scored a goal for Sampdoria since joining from Cluj in January 2012 – hit a left-footed effort into the bottom right corner that left Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic with no chance.
Colombian Fredy Guarin had earlier given Inter the lead in the 18th minute, producing a smart finish after excellent build-up work from Ricky Alvarez.
Guarin then hit the post in the second half, but Sampdoria also enjoyed their fair share of chances, while Eder had a goal ruled out for offside after the break.
But they snared their hard-earned point at the death as Renan's effort stunned the crowd at San Siro, which included new Inter president Erick Thohir, watching the club for the first time since his takeover in October.
Captain Javier Zanetti came in for Inter, with the veteran making his first start for the club since suffering an Achilles injury in April, while Sampdoria drafted in Eder and Roberto Soriano.
The visitors started brightly, quickly settling into a rhythm, and just after Eder fired over with a bicycle kick, Manolo Gabbiadini volleyed wide.
Alvarez was proving a threat down the left for Inter though, and his quick feet and vision set up the opener, as he skinned Gabbiadini before picking out Guarin at the far post.
Guarin took a touch and, from an acute angle, fired past Sampdoria goalkeeper Angelo Da Costa, who could not keep out the effort despite getting hands to it.
Buoyed by their goal, Jonathan and Esteban Cambiasso had attempts, while Nicola Pozzi showed good skill to gather and turn at the other end, but his shot lacked power.
Daniele Gastaldello was taken off on a stretcher just before half-time, replaced by Vasco Regini, in a further blow for Sampdoria, who could consider themselves unlucky to be behind at the break.
Inter started brightly after half-time as a superb Guarin ball nearly found Saphir Taider, and the Colombian thrashed a powerful effort against the post in the 51st minute.
Eder found the net for Sampdoria at the other end, but the goal was ruled out for a clear offside, as Mateo Kovacic replaced Taider just after the hour-mark for Inter, who looked to kill the game off.
The visitors pressed on in their search for an equaliser though, as Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic spilled an Eder free-kick, but Cambiasso was on hand to clear the rebound.
Lorenzo De Silvestri then headed over from a corner for Sampdoria but they did get their leveller, thanks to Renan's effort in the dying stages, denying Inter the chance to move third in Serie A.
Renan Garcia's stunning 25-yard strike in the 89th minute saw Sampdoria claim a deserved 1-1 Serie A draw at Inter on Sunday.
The 27-year-old Brazilian – who had not scored a goal for Sampdoria since joining from Cluj in January 2012 – hit a left-footed effort into the bottom right corner that left Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic with no chance.
Colombian Fredy Guarin had earlier given Inter the lead in the 18th minute, producing a smart finish after excellent build-up work from Ricky Alvarez.
Guarin then hit the post in the second half, but Sampdoria also enjoyed their fair share of chances, while Eder had a goal ruled out for offside after the break.
But they snared their hard-earned point at the death as Renan's effort stunned the crowd at San Siro, which included new Inter president Erick Thohir, watching the club for the first time since his takeover in October.
Captain Javier Zanetti came in for Inter, with the veteran making his first start for the club since suffering an Achilles injury in April, while Sampdoria drafted in Eder and Roberto Soriano.
The visitors started brightly, quickly settling into a rhythm, and just after Eder fired over with a bicycle kick, Manolo Gabbiadini volleyed wide.
Alvarez was proving a threat down the left for Inter though, and his quick feet and vision set up the opener, as he skinned Gabbiadini before picking out Guarin at the far post.
Guarin took a touch and, from an acute angle, fired past Sampdoria goalkeeper Angelo Da Costa, who could not keep out the effort despite getting hands to it.
Buoyed by their goal, Jonathan and Esteban Cambiasso had attempts, while Nicola Pozzi showed good skill to gather and turn at the other end, but his shot lacked power.
Daniele Gastaldello was taken off on a stretcher just before half-time, replaced by Vasco Regini, in a further blow for Sampdoria, who could consider themselves unlucky to be behind at the break.
Inter started brightly after half-time as a superb Guarin ball nearly found Saphir Taider, and the Colombian thrashed a powerful effort against the post in the 51st minute.
Eder found the net for Sampdoria at the other end, but the goal was ruled out for a clear offside, as Mateo Kovacic replaced Taider just after the hour-mark for Inter, who looked to kill the game off.
The visitors pressed on in their search for an equaliser though, as Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic spilled an Eder free-kick, but Cambiasso was on hand to clear the rebound.
Lorenzo De Silvestri then headed over from a corner for Sampdoria but they did get their leveller, thanks to Renan's effort in the dying stages, denying Inter the chance to move third in Serie A.
Hull City 3-1 Liverpool: Skrtel own goal confirms costly Reds defeat
Jake Livermore and David Meyler notched their first goals of the season to give Hull City their first win over Liverpool in a 3-1 success.
Livermore's first Tigersgoal put the home side in front after 20 minutes at the KC Stadium on Sunday but a superb Steven Gerrard free kick, almost 15 years to the day since his Liverpool debut, levelled matters.
But Hull were rewarded for a stirring second-half performance when Meyler reacted quickest to pick up the loose ball and fire in with 19 minutes remaining before Martin Skrtel's own goal settled the result.
The result catapults the hosts into the top half of the table and leaves Liverpool seven points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Hull manager Steve Bruce made two changes from their defeat to Crystal Palace and Liverpool counterpart Brendan Rodgers made three alterations following the 3-3 Merseyside derby draw. Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring against Everton last Saturday but was one of those who dropped to the bench, while the injured Paul McShane was replaced by Alex Bruce for Hull.
The Tigers had lost four of their previous five Premier League games and, despite Liverpool's dominance of possession, it was the home side who created the first chance. A corner was cleared as far as Alex Bruce after 14 minutes and his teasing cross was glanced just wide by Curtis Davies.
And Hull went in front six minutes later when Livermore and Meyler combined for the former to unleash a shot that took a wicked deflection off Skrtel and flew past Simon Mignolet, his first goal for the club since joining on loan from Tottenham.
But the lead was short-lived as Liverpool captain Gerrard produced a sumptuous free kick that he whipped into Allan McGregor's far corner from 25 yards.
Luis Suarez cut a frustrated figure for most of the half and missed a very presentable opportunity in the final minute of the opening period when Raheem Sterling found the Uruguayan on the left but his side-footed effort was tame and straight at McGregor.
Liverpool should have gone in front after 70 minutes when Coutinho's cross found Victor Moses, who met it on the volley but was denied at point-blank range by McGregor.
McGregor's save proved crucial as Hull regained the lead a minute later after the Reds failed to clear and Meyler picked up the loose ball and showed great composure before firing in his first goal of the season.
Suarez whistled a late free kick wide before Hull put the game out of reach with four minutes remaining when Huddlestone's effort was headed into his own net by the unfortunate Skrtel.
Jake Livermore and David Meyler notched their first goals of the season to give Hull City their first win over Liverpool in a 3-1 success.
Livermore's first Tigersgoal put the home side in front after 20 minutes at the KC Stadium on Sunday but a superb Steven Gerrard free kick, almost 15 years to the day since his Liverpool debut, levelled matters.
But Hull were rewarded for a stirring second-half performance when Meyler reacted quickest to pick up the loose ball and fire in with 19 minutes remaining before Martin Skrtel's own goal settled the result.
The result catapults the hosts into the top half of the table and leaves Liverpool seven points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Hull manager Steve Bruce made two changes from their defeat to Crystal Palace and Liverpool counterpart Brendan Rodgers made three alterations following the 3-3 Merseyside derby draw. Philippe Coutinho opened the scoring against Everton last Saturday but was one of those who dropped to the bench, while the injured Paul McShane was replaced by Alex Bruce for Hull.
The Tigers had lost four of their previous five Premier League games and, despite Liverpool's dominance of possession, it was the home side who created the first chance. A corner was cleared as far as Alex Bruce after 14 minutes and his teasing cross was glanced just wide by Curtis Davies.
And Hull went in front six minutes later when Livermore and Meyler combined for the former to unleash a shot that took a wicked deflection off Skrtel and flew past Simon Mignolet, his first goal for the club since joining on loan from Tottenham.
But the lead was short-lived as Liverpool captain Gerrard produced a sumptuous free kick that he whipped into Allan McGregor's far corner from 25 yards.
Luis Suarez cut a frustrated figure for most of the half and missed a very presentable opportunity in the final minute of the opening period when Raheem Sterling found the Uruguayan on the left but his side-footed effort was tame and straight at McGregor.
Liverpool should have gone in front after 70 minutes when Coutinho's cross found Victor Moses, who met it on the volley but was denied at point-blank range by McGregor.
McGregor's save proved crucial as Hull regained the lead a minute later after the Reds failed to clear and Meyler picked up the loose ball and showed great composure before firing in his first goal of the season.
Suarez whistled a late free kick wide before Hull put the game out of reach with four minutes remaining when Huddlestone's effort was headed into his own net by the unfortunate Skrtel.
Tottenham 2-2 Manchester United: Sloppy Spurs left to rue Rooney penalty
Tottenham and Manchester United each lost further ground on Premier League leaders Arsenal courtesy of a 2-2 draw at White Hart Lane.
Wayne Rooney twice levelled for the visitors in an action-packed encounter, his second goal coming from the penalty spot on 57 minutes.
Kyle Walker, who was at fault for Rooney's first, and Sandro had put Tottenham ahead, the latter with a spectacular long-range strike.
Having been thrashed 6-0 at Manchester City in their last league match, Andre Villas-Boas's men can take heart from a much more competitive showing and their first league goals since October, while United are now unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions.
However, both sides remain outside the top four and some way adrift of Arsenal, Tottenham trailing the front-runners by 10 points and the Red Devils by nine.
Villas-Boas made three changes to the side humbled at the Etihad Stadium, with Younes Kaboul, Lewis Holtby and Erik Lamela - who did not even make the bench - omitted. Robin van Persie remained sidelined for the visitors, whose team included four alterations from the 2-2 draw at Cardiff City, with 40-year-old Ryan Giggs among those to miss out.
Rooney saw a goalbound strike superbly blocked by Sandro prior to Walker opening the scoring in the 18th minute. Jonny Evans upended Paulinho on the edge of the area and Tottenham's right-back drilled the resulting free kick under United's jumping wall.
The influential Rooney was forced into a block of his own to deny Michael Dawson before Tottenham - a constant threat on the counterattack - spurned two chances in quick succession either side of the half-hour mark.
Roberto Soldado fired high and wide following a delightful exchange of passes with Paulinho, while Aaron Lennon's left-footed effort forced David de Gea into a save with his feet.
Tottenham were swiftly punished for not extending their advantage in the 32nd minute as Walker diverted a right-wing cross from Phil Jones into the path of Rooney, who fired home from close range.
The home side regained the lead in stunning fashion nine minutes after the break, though, with Sandro cutting inside Tom Cleverley before unleashing a thunderous strike into the top-right corner.
Yet United were level again within three minutes, Rooney firing a penalty straight down the middle for his eighth Premier League goal of the season after Danny Welbeck had been brought down by Hugo Lloris.
Rooney threatened again from a Patrice Evra cross, while Walker put another free kick narrowly wide before providing a delightful cross with which substitute Andros Townsend came agonisingly close to connecting, yet neither team could find a winner.
Tottenham and Manchester United each lost further ground on Premier League leaders Arsenal courtesy of a 2-2 draw at White Hart Lane.
Wayne Rooney twice levelled for the visitors in an action-packed encounter, his second goal coming from the penalty spot on 57 minutes.
Kyle Walker, who was at fault for Rooney's first, and Sandro had put Tottenham ahead, the latter with a spectacular long-range strike.
Having been thrashed 6-0 at Manchester City in their last league match, Andre Villas-Boas's men can take heart from a much more competitive showing and their first league goals since October, while United are now unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions.
However, both sides remain outside the top four and some way adrift of Arsenal, Tottenham trailing the front-runners by 10 points and the Red Devils by nine.
Villas-Boas made three changes to the side humbled at the Etihad Stadium, with Younes Kaboul, Lewis Holtby and Erik Lamela - who did not even make the bench - omitted. Robin van Persie remained sidelined for the visitors, whose team included four alterations from the 2-2 draw at Cardiff City, with 40-year-old Ryan Giggs among those to miss out.
Rooney saw a goalbound strike superbly blocked by Sandro prior to Walker opening the scoring in the 18th minute. Jonny Evans upended Paulinho on the edge of the area and Tottenham's right-back drilled the resulting free kick under United's jumping wall.
The influential Rooney was forced into a block of his own to deny Michael Dawson before Tottenham - a constant threat on the counterattack - spurned two chances in quick succession either side of the half-hour mark.
Roberto Soldado fired high and wide following a delightful exchange of passes with Paulinho, while Aaron Lennon's left-footed effort forced David de Gea into a save with his feet.
Tottenham were swiftly punished for not extending their advantage in the 32nd minute as Walker diverted a right-wing cross from Phil Jones into the path of Rooney, who fired home from close range.
The home side regained the lead in stunning fashion nine minutes after the break, though, with Sandro cutting inside Tom Cleverley before unleashing a thunderous strike into the top-right corner.
Yet United were level again within three minutes, Rooney firing a penalty straight down the middle for his eighth Premier League goal of the season after Danny Welbeck had been brought down by Hugo Lloris.
Rooney threatened again from a Patrice Evra cross, while Walker put another free kick narrowly wide before providing a delightful cross with which substitute Andros Townsend came agonisingly close to connecting, yet neither team could find a winner.
Congratulations Manchester UnitedCongratulations Rooney!2nd half 1kanam miss una but hoda gemak gihin
Catania 1-3 AC Milan: Kaka secures vital win for Allegri's side
AC Milan maintained the momentum they gained against Celtic in midweek by claiming a 3-1 Serie A victory over 10-man Catania on Sunday afternoon.
When Lucas Castro gave the hosts an early lead there were alarm bells ringing for the San Siro outfit, yet a quick response from Riccardo Montolivo calmed their nerve.
Just after the hour mark Mario Balotelli would put Massimilano Allegri's team into the lead for the first time and Panagiotis Tachtsidis' dismissal minutes later made the task of the visitors easier.
Milan sealed all three points courtesy of Kaka's 99th goal for the club, with a typically incisive run before firing into the roof of the net from close range.
Catania boss Luigi De Canio opted to make six changes from their 4-1 loss to Torino last weekend, including altering his entire back four.
Allegri, meanwhile, was without first-choice keeper Christian Abbiati due to illness, and defenders Ignazio Abate (ankle) and Cristian Zapata (suspended) were also out.
Milan were looking to build on their comprehensive 3-0 victory over Celtic in the Champions League in midweek but got off to the worst possible start when Castro’s shot deceived goalkeeper Gabriel after deflecting off Daniele Bonera to give Catania the lead on 13 minutes.
Maxi Lopez kept the ball alive after a left-wing cross, and Castro danced round two challenges before firing home via Bonera’s knee.
However, De Canio’s side were ahead for just six minutes, as captain Montolivo’s controlled volley from Emanuelson’s dangerous cross beat Mariano Andujar.
Milan then looked most likely to go in front, although Catania threatened just before the interval when the 21-year-old Gabriel was only able to parry Luciano Monzon’s powerful effort before holding on at the second attempt.
The home side came out on the front foot after the break too, but were undone when Balotelli rifled a low 20-yard free-kick past the helpless Andujar on 63 minutes for his fourth league goal of the season.
And things went from bad to worse for Catania almost immediately, as Greek midfielder Tachtsidis was dismissed by referee Nicola Rizzola after bringing down Balotelli.
Kaka finally made Milan's numerical advantage pay in the 81st minute with a fine individual effort, before Balotelli was perhaps wisely withdrawn by Allegri after engaging in a running battle with Argentine defender Nicolas Spolli.
AC Milan maintained the momentum they gained against Celtic in midweek by claiming a 3-1 Serie A victory over 10-man Catania on Sunday afternoon.
When Lucas Castro gave the hosts an early lead there were alarm bells ringing for the San Siro outfit, yet a quick response from Riccardo Montolivo calmed their nerve.
Just after the hour mark Mario Balotelli would put Massimilano Allegri's team into the lead for the first time and Panagiotis Tachtsidis' dismissal minutes later made the task of the visitors easier.
Milan sealed all three points courtesy of Kaka's 99th goal for the club, with a typically incisive run before firing into the roof of the net from close range.
Catania boss Luigi De Canio opted to make six changes from their 4-1 loss to Torino last weekend, including altering his entire back four.
Allegri, meanwhile, was without first-choice keeper Christian Abbiati due to illness, and defenders Ignazio Abate (ankle) and Cristian Zapata (suspended) were also out.
Milan were looking to build on their comprehensive 3-0 victory over Celtic in the Champions League in midweek but got off to the worst possible start when Castro’s shot deceived goalkeeper Gabriel after deflecting off Daniele Bonera to give Catania the lead on 13 minutes.
Maxi Lopez kept the ball alive after a left-wing cross, and Castro danced round two challenges before firing home via Bonera’s knee.
However, De Canio’s side were ahead for just six minutes, as captain Montolivo’s controlled volley from Emanuelson’s dangerous cross beat Mariano Andujar.
Milan then looked most likely to go in front, although Catania threatened just before the interval when the 21-year-old Gabriel was only able to parry Luciano Monzon’s powerful effort before holding on at the second attempt.
The home side came out on the front foot after the break too, but were undone when Balotelli rifled a low 20-yard free-kick past the helpless Andujar on 63 minutes for his fourth league goal of the season.
And things went from bad to worse for Catania almost immediately, as Greek midfielder Tachtsidis was dismissed by referee Nicola Rizzola after bringing down Balotelli.
Kaka finally made Milan's numerical advantage pay in the 81st minute with a fine individual effort, before Balotelli was perhaps wisely withdrawn by Allegri after engaging in a running battle with Argentine defender Nicolas Spolli.
Athletic Bilbao 1-0 Barcelona: Muniain condemns Catalans to back-to-back defeats
Iker Muniain's second-half strike condemned Barcelona to their second defeat in a row as Athletic Bilbaowon 1-0 on Sunday.
The Liga champions went down 2-1 with a lacklustre Champions League display against Ajax in Amsterdam on Tuesday and struggled against a ferocious Athletic before Muniain broke the deadlock in the 70th minute.
Gerardo Martino has received steady criticism from local media and fans for altering Barcelona's famed tiki-taka style since his close-season appointment and the backlash he suffered in midweek is only likely to grow stronger after the league leaders slumped to their first Liga defeat since March.
Athletic remain unbeaten at their new San Mames stadium following a first victory over Barcelona in 14 attempts home and away.
Barcelona welcomed back in-form Chile international Alexis Sanchez from suspension and he joined Neymar and Cesc Fabregas in a fluid three-man forward line.
Athletic goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz tipped over impressively from Neymar in the 12th minute following typically slick Blaugrana link-up involving Andres Iniesta and Alexis.
In the 18th minute, Xavi threaded a delightful ball across the Bilbao box and looked on perplexed as none of his team-mates provided a decisive touch to open the scoring.
Athletic's twin wing threat of Muniain and Markel Susaeta proved quiet in the opening exchanges, but when the duo combined after 32 minutes the hosts should have taken the lead.
Susaeta's speculative cross was deflected into Muniain's path, but he scuffed into the arms of Jose Manuel Pinto from close range.
Neymar's struggles to keep his footing on the greasy surface was indicative of a disjointed Barca display and when Gaizka Toquero came close from Susaeta's delivery from the left flank, it underlined which team was ending the half in the ascendancy.
Bilbao resumed on the front foot, but they were grateful to see Neymar spurn an opening after chesting down Fabregas' lofted pass.
Ander Iturraspe breathed a sigh of relief when he received only a yellow card for bundling over Neymar after the Brazilian stole a march on the Athletic defence. Fabregas curled the resulting 59th-minute free kick agonisingly wide.
But the hosts continued to make like life deeply uncomfortable for Martino's men with their incessant work-rate and pressing and Athletic had their reward with 20 minutes remaining.
A familiar combination crafted the breakthrough - Susaeta charging down the right onto Ander Herrera's pass after Barca gave up possession and crossing for the on-rushing Muniain to convert.
It almost got worse for Barcelona three minutes later when Pinto was forced into a superb reflex save from Toquero's header.
Most damningly for Martino's men, Pinto's opposite number Iraizoz was woefully under-worked in the closing stages and Barca only remain above Atletico Madrid at the summit on goal difference.
Iker Muniain's second-half strike condemned Barcelona to their second defeat in a row as Athletic Bilbaowon 1-0 on Sunday.
The Liga champions went down 2-1 with a lacklustre Champions League display against Ajax in Amsterdam on Tuesday and struggled against a ferocious Athletic before Muniain broke the deadlock in the 70th minute.
Gerardo Martino has received steady criticism from local media and fans for altering Barcelona's famed tiki-taka style since his close-season appointment and the backlash he suffered in midweek is only likely to grow stronger after the league leaders slumped to their first Liga defeat since March.
Athletic remain unbeaten at their new San Mames stadium following a first victory over Barcelona in 14 attempts home and away.
Barcelona welcomed back in-form Chile international Alexis Sanchez from suspension and he joined Neymar and Cesc Fabregas in a fluid three-man forward line.
Athletic goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz tipped over impressively from Neymar in the 12th minute following typically slick Blaugrana link-up involving Andres Iniesta and Alexis.
In the 18th minute, Xavi threaded a delightful ball across the Bilbao box and looked on perplexed as none of his team-mates provided a decisive touch to open the scoring.
Athletic's twin wing threat of Muniain and Markel Susaeta proved quiet in the opening exchanges, but when the duo combined after 32 minutes the hosts should have taken the lead.
Susaeta's speculative cross was deflected into Muniain's path, but he scuffed into the arms of Jose Manuel Pinto from close range.
Neymar's struggles to keep his footing on the greasy surface was indicative of a disjointed Barca display and when Gaizka Toquero came close from Susaeta's delivery from the left flank, it underlined which team was ending the half in the ascendancy.
Bilbao resumed on the front foot, but they were grateful to see Neymar spurn an opening after chesting down Fabregas' lofted pass.
Ander Iturraspe breathed a sigh of relief when he received only a yellow card for bundling over Neymar after the Brazilian stole a march on the Athletic defence. Fabregas curled the resulting 59th-minute free kick agonisingly wide.
But the hosts continued to make like life deeply uncomfortable for Martino's men with their incessant work-rate and pressing and Athletic had their reward with 20 minutes remaining.
A familiar combination crafted the breakthrough - Susaeta charging down the right onto Ander Herrera's pass after Barca gave up possession and crossing for the on-rushing Muniain to convert.
It almost got worse for Barcelona three minutes later when Pinto was forced into a superb reflex save from Toquero's header.
Most damningly for Martino's men, Pinto's opposite number Iraizoz was woefully under-worked in the closing stages and Barca only remain above Atletico Madrid at the summit on goal difference.
Paris Saint-Germain 4-0 Olympique Lyonnais: Ibrahimovic double puts Gones to the sword
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice to ensure that Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Olympique Lyonnais 4-0 on Sunday.
Edinson Cavani broke the deadlock midway through the first half with a glancing near-post header from Lucas Moura's corner - the Uruguay international's 13th goal of the season.
PSG went in at the break two goals to the good after Cavani was felled in the area and Ibrahimovic impudently chipped the resulting penalty home.
Thiago Silva grabbed a third after the break with a well-taken strike from close range, before Ibrahimovic converted another spot kick late on.
The result leaves PSG four points clear of Lille at the top of Ligue 1 and Laurent Blanc's side are now just one game away from equalling their longest ever unbeaten run in the league having taken their tally to 26.
Laurent Blanc made two changes from the 2-1 Champions League win over Olympiakos in midweek, Javier Pastore making his first start since November 9 in place of Ezequiel Lavezzi, while Clement Grenier replaced Steed Malbranque in Lyon's sole alteration.
PSG nearly made the perfect start, but Cavani scuffed an acrobatic effort straight at Remy Vercoutre after Marco Verratti had pounced on a defensive error.
Alexandre Lacazette rattled the crossbar for the visitors, but the Parisiens responded with Pastore forcing Bakary Kone into a brave block at the other end.
The hosts did break the deadlock soon later though, Cavani glancing Lucas' corner through a crowded penalty area and past Vercoutre.
And things got better for the hosts just five minutes before the break when the Uruguayan was brought down by Vercoutre after being put clean through on goal.
Ibrahimovic duly converted with a composed chip into the top corner, as PSG tightened their grip on the game.
The hosts began the second half with the a similar level of urgency, and added a third 15 minutes after the restart when Silva saw an initial effort blocked by Gueida Fofana, but the ball fell kindly for the Brazilian, who smashed in left-footed.
Blanc's men nearly had a fourth five minutes later when Cavani headed Ibrahimovic's cross just over the bar.
Verratti, dismissed in PSG's midweek win over Olympiakos, responded brilliantly, pulling the strings for the hosts with great effect.
And a great night for the Parisians was round off late on when Ibrahimovic was clipped in the box by Samuel Umtiti and drilled a second effort from 12 yards into the bottom corner to grab his 17th goal in 10 games for the champions.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice to ensure that Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Olympique Lyonnais 4-0 on Sunday.
Edinson Cavani broke the deadlock midway through the first half with a glancing near-post header from Lucas Moura's corner - the Uruguay international's 13th goal of the season.
PSG went in at the break two goals to the good after Cavani was felled in the area and Ibrahimovic impudently chipped the resulting penalty home.
Thiago Silva grabbed a third after the break with a well-taken strike from close range, before Ibrahimovic converted another spot kick late on.
The result leaves PSG four points clear of Lille at the top of Ligue 1 and Laurent Blanc's side are now just one game away from equalling their longest ever unbeaten run in the league having taken their tally to 26.
Laurent Blanc made two changes from the 2-1 Champions League win over Olympiakos in midweek, Javier Pastore making his first start since November 9 in place of Ezequiel Lavezzi, while Clement Grenier replaced Steed Malbranque in Lyon's sole alteration.
PSG nearly made the perfect start, but Cavani scuffed an acrobatic effort straight at Remy Vercoutre after Marco Verratti had pounced on a defensive error.
Alexandre Lacazette rattled the crossbar for the visitors, but the Parisiens responded with Pastore forcing Bakary Kone into a brave block at the other end.
The hosts did break the deadlock soon later though, Cavani glancing Lucas' corner through a crowded penalty area and past Vercoutre.
And things got better for the hosts just five minutes before the break when the Uruguayan was brought down by Vercoutre after being put clean through on goal.
Ibrahimovic duly converted with a composed chip into the top corner, as PSG tightened their grip on the game.
The hosts began the second half with the a similar level of urgency, and added a third 15 minutes after the restart when Silva saw an initial effort blocked by Gueida Fofana, but the ball fell kindly for the Brazilian, who smashed in left-footed.
Blanc's men nearly had a fourth five minutes later when Cavani headed Ibrahimovic's cross just over the bar.
Verratti, dismissed in PSG's midweek win over Olympiakos, responded brilliantly, pulling the strings for the hosts with great effect.
And a great night for the Parisians was round off late on when Ibrahimovic was clipped in the box by Samuel Umtiti and drilled a second effort from 12 yards into the bottom corner to grab his 17th goal in 10 games for the champions.
Juventus 1-0 Udinese: Late Llorente goals gives Bianconeri win
Fernando Llorente struck in second-half stoppage-time to secure a 1-0 for Juventus against Udinese on Sunday.
Roma needed a last-gasp equaliser to claim a 1-1 draw at Atalanta earlier in the day and Juve's late goal of their own saw them move three points clear at the top of Serie A.
Juve - who are gunning for a third straight league title - dominated the first half but a lack of cutting edge hurt them.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon made a string of superb saves in the second half, frustrating Udinese as he kept his sixth league clean sheet in a row.
Antonio Conte's men then piled on the pressure in the latter stages, with Llorente heading in Stephan Lichtsteiner's shot in the 90th minute to spark wild celebrations, as Juve made it seven wins from as many Serie A home matches this season.
Juventus made three changes from the side that beat Copenhagen 3-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, with Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and Paolo de Ceglie all coming in as Paul Pogba dropped to the bench.
Allan replaced Giampiero Pinzi for Udinese, who were on the back foot early in Turin as the hosts started brightly.
Carlos Tevez was denied twice by defender Danilo early on and also forced an outstanding save from Udinese goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic in a dominant start.
The hosts were dealt a major blow 14 minutes in as Andrea Pirlo was forced off with an apparent knee injury, sustained in a clash with Andrea Lazzari, Pogba replacing him.
Tevez saw a first-time effort with his left foot go just wide four minutes later, before Udinese captain Antonio Di Natale missed a good chance at the other end when Buffon saved his chip with Roberto Pereyra well-placed centrally.
The Argentine again shot wide as the first half petered out, with Juve unable to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances.
Llorente got in the way of Tevez just after the break, and they were nearly made to pay, only for Buffon to pull off an outstanding double save in the 53rd minute.
The keeper first saved Bruno's effort from the right and then quickly reacted to deny Di Natale from the rebound, and nine minutes later he moved superbly to tip Lazzari's swerving 20-yard strike over the bar.
Tevez shot straight at Brkic at the other end before he fired just over from a free kick with six minutes to play.
Fabio Quagliarella came off the bench and forced a good save from Brkic shortly after, and Llorente had a late header cleared off the line, but he still managed to have the final say in Turin, reacting sharply to turn Lichtsteiner's wayward shot home.
Fernando Llorente struck in second-half stoppage-time to secure a 1-0 for Juventus against Udinese on Sunday.
Roma needed a last-gasp equaliser to claim a 1-1 draw at Atalanta earlier in the day and Juve's late goal of their own saw them move three points clear at the top of Serie A.
Juve - who are gunning for a third straight league title - dominated the first half but a lack of cutting edge hurt them.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon made a string of superb saves in the second half, frustrating Udinese as he kept his sixth league clean sheet in a row.
Antonio Conte's men then piled on the pressure in the latter stages, with Llorente heading in Stephan Lichtsteiner's shot in the 90th minute to spark wild celebrations, as Juve made it seven wins from as many Serie A home matches this season.
Juventus made three changes from the side that beat Copenhagen 3-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday, with Claudio Marchisio, Andrea Barzagli and Paolo de Ceglie all coming in as Paul Pogba dropped to the bench.
Allan replaced Giampiero Pinzi for Udinese, who were on the back foot early in Turin as the hosts started brightly.
Carlos Tevez was denied twice by defender Danilo early on and also forced an outstanding save from Udinese goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic in a dominant start.
The hosts were dealt a major blow 14 minutes in as Andrea Pirlo was forced off with an apparent knee injury, sustained in a clash with Andrea Lazzari, Pogba replacing him.
Tevez saw a first-time effort with his left foot go just wide four minutes later, before Udinese captain Antonio Di Natale missed a good chance at the other end when Buffon saved his chip with Roberto Pereyra well-placed centrally.
The Argentine again shot wide as the first half petered out, with Juve unable to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances.
Llorente got in the way of Tevez just after the break, and they were nearly made to pay, only for Buffon to pull off an outstanding double save in the 53rd minute.
The keeper first saved Bruno's effort from the right and then quickly reacted to deny Di Natale from the rebound, and nine minutes later he moved superbly to tip Lazzari's swerving 20-yard strike over the bar.
Tevez shot straight at Brkic at the other end before he fired just over from a free kick with six minutes to play.
Fabio Quagliarella came off the bench and forced a good save from Brkic shortly after, and Llorente had a late header cleared off the line, but he still managed to have the final say in Turin, reacting sharply to turn Lichtsteiner's wayward shot home.
Chelsea 3-1 Southampton: Ba wraps up Blues comeback
John Terry marked his 400th Premier League appearance with a goal as Chelsea came from behind to beat Southampton 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues looked to be in danger of slipping to their first home defeat in the top flight under Jose Mourinho when Jay Rodriguez was gifted the opening goal after only 13 seconds following a bad mistake from Michael Essien.
Essien was making his first Premier League start since May 2012 and, after he was substituted at half-time, the midfielder's blushes were spared as Chelsea fought back to secure all three points courtesy of Gary Cahill's first league goal of the season, Terry's towering header and Demba Ba's last-minute strike.
Southampton were forced to give goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga his first appearance for a year when Artur Boruc went off with an injury just after the equaliser and the youngster was beaten twice as the visitors slipped to their second defeat in London in the space of eight days.
Victory for second-placed Chelsea ensured that they cut the gap on leaders Arsenal to four points.
Mourinho made four changes to his starting line-up from their midweek defeat to Basel. Samuel Eto'o was replaced by Fernando Torres up front, while Eden Hazard and Juan Mata joined Essien in the starting line-up as Willian, Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel dropped to the bench.
Defender Dejan Lovren returned for Southampton at the expense of Jos Hooiveld after missing the defeat at Arsenaldue to illness and striker Daniel Osvaldo was preferred to Rickie Lambert in attack.
Mourinho would have been eager for Essien to stamp his authority on the game but the Chelsea boss must have been questioning his team selection once again straight from the kick-off as the midfielder's attempted clearance looped into the air and into the path of Rodriguez, who kept his nerve to beat Petr Cech with a composed right-footed finish.
Essien's miserable afternoon continued when he was booked for diving after 32 minutes and Oscar headed straight at Boruc soon after he had picked up an injury that resulted in Lampard replacing him five minutes before half-time.
The Pole made an outstanding reflex save to claw out a Torres header after 43 minutes as Chelsea's frustration mounted.
Mourinho replaced Essien with Ba at the break and Boruc had to be alert once again to tip over Lampard's free kick, but Chelsea were level after 54 minutes when Ba diverted Branislav Ivanovic's header into the post and Cahill scrambled in the rebound from close range.
That proved to be the end of Boruc's afternoon as he was replaced by Gazzaniga due to injury and the young Argentinian keeper was picking the ball out of the back of the net just four minutes after coming on, when Terry rose highest to meet Mata's cross and headed into the far corner of the net.
Chelsea stayed on the front foot and Ba flashed a shot wide with his left foot after 71 minutes after shrugging off his marker but the Senegal striker was not to be denied after 89 minutes when he poked the ball inside the near post with his right foot after great work from Ramires on the left.
John Terry marked his 400th Premier League appearance with a goal as Chelsea came from behind to beat Southampton 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues looked to be in danger of slipping to their first home defeat in the top flight under Jose Mourinho when Jay Rodriguez was gifted the opening goal after only 13 seconds following a bad mistake from Michael Essien.
Essien was making his first Premier League start since May 2012 and, after he was substituted at half-time, the midfielder's blushes were spared as Chelsea fought back to secure all three points courtesy of Gary Cahill's first league goal of the season, Terry's towering header and Demba Ba's last-minute strike.
Southampton were forced to give goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga his first appearance for a year when Artur Boruc went off with an injury just after the equaliser and the youngster was beaten twice as the visitors slipped to their second defeat in London in the space of eight days.
Victory for second-placed Chelsea ensured that they cut the gap on leaders Arsenal to four points.
Mourinho made four changes to his starting line-up from their midweek defeat to Basel. Samuel Eto'o was replaced by Fernando Torres up front, while Eden Hazard and Juan Mata joined Essien in the starting line-up as Willian, Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel dropped to the bench.
Defender Dejan Lovren returned for Southampton at the expense of Jos Hooiveld after missing the defeat at Arsenaldue to illness and striker Daniel Osvaldo was preferred to Rickie Lambert in attack.
Mourinho would have been eager for Essien to stamp his authority on the game but the Chelsea boss must have been questioning his team selection once again straight from the kick-off as the midfielder's attempted clearance looped into the air and into the path of Rodriguez, who kept his nerve to beat Petr Cech with a composed right-footed finish.
Essien's miserable afternoon continued when he was booked for diving after 32 minutes and Oscar headed straight at Boruc soon after he had picked up an injury that resulted in Lampard replacing him five minutes before half-time.
The Pole made an outstanding reflex save to claw out a Torres header after 43 minutes as Chelsea's frustration mounted.
Mourinho replaced Essien with Ba at the break and Boruc had to be alert once again to tip over Lampard's free kick, but Chelsea were level after 54 minutes when Ba diverted Branislav Ivanovic's header into the post and Cahill scrambled in the rebound from close range.
That proved to be the end of Boruc's afternoon as he was replaced by Gazzaniga due to injury and the young Argentinian keeper was picking the ball out of the back of the net just four minutes after coming on, when Terry rose highest to meet Mata's cross and headed into the far corner of the net.
Chelsea stayed on the front foot and Ba flashed a shot wide with his left foot after 71 minutes after shrugging off his marker but the Senegal striker was not to be denied after 89 minutes when he poked the ball inside the near post with his right foot after great work from Ramires on the left.
Manchester City 3-0 Swansea City: Negredo & Nasri secure routine victory
Samir Nasri's second-half double saw Manchester City maintain a perfect home record in the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Swansea City.
The Etihad Stadium faithful might have had designs on a repeat of the recent 7-0 and 6-0 romps over Norwich City and Tottenham after Alvaro Negredo netted an eighth-minute free kick but the Swans more than matched Manuel Pellegrini's men in the first period and Jonathan De Guzman should have equalised on the stroke of the interval.
However, Nasri followed his midweek Champions League strike against Viktoria Plzen with two more, the second from a first-time finish that capped a sumptuous team move featuring James Milner and Pablo Zabaleta.
The result moves Pellgrini's men into third, six points shy of leaders Arsenal, while Swansea lie 13th.
Joleon Lescott featured at centre-back in the absence of injury victim Matija Nastasic (calf) – the only change to the Manchester City XI that thrashed Tottenham seven days previously. Gerhard Tremmel, meanwhile, was preferred to Michel Vorm in goal for a Swansea team without Angel Rangel and Wilfried Bony due to respective calf and hamstring problems suffered during their Europa League defeat to Valencia on Thursday.
Tremmel made early stops from Sergio Aguero and Negredo but was rooted to the spot when the latter opened the scoring.
Jose Canas brought down Negredo 22 yards from goal and the forward steered the resulting free kick, from the right-hand edge of the area, into the far corner, assisted by Lescott and Martin Demichelis peeling off the edge of the Swansea wall.
The visitors responded well and Jonjo Shelvey twice tested City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon, who was again selected ahead of Joe Hart, from long range before Alvaro Vazquez dragged wastefully wide after 21 minutes, having been played in by the ex-Liverpool midfielder.
Demichelis thudded a header from Nasri's 30th-minute corner against the bar but the former Bayern Munich centre-back's defensive display was far less convincing.
Having escaped punishment for pulling back Pablo Hernandez in his own box, Demichelis was nutmegged and left on his backside by De Guzman, who blazed the subsequent glorious chance over in the first half's final minute.
The angle closed cruelly on Aguero as he hit the side netting in the 53rd minute after collecting a raking ball with an exquisite touch and rounding Tremmel.
Yaya Toure was the provider on that occasion and the Ivory Coast midfielder tore at Swansea with one of his trademark driving runs in the 58th minute before finding Nasri, who cut inside Ashley Williams and produced an assured finish.
Swansea started to feel the pace as the game entered its final quarter and City right-back Zabaleta burst forward to chip narrowly over, while Aguero flashed a shot across the goalmouth from Milner's through-ball, having failed to convert the substitute's cross.
Nasri's final flourish arrived in the 77th minute and City will now aim to address their troublesome away form in trips to West Brom and Southampton over the next six days.
Samir Nasri's second-half double saw Manchester City maintain a perfect home record in the Premier League with a 3-0 win over Swansea City.
The Etihad Stadium faithful might have had designs on a repeat of the recent 7-0 and 6-0 romps over Norwich City and Tottenham after Alvaro Negredo netted an eighth-minute free kick but the Swans more than matched Manuel Pellegrini's men in the first period and Jonathan De Guzman should have equalised on the stroke of the interval.
However, Nasri followed his midweek Champions League strike against Viktoria Plzen with two more, the second from a first-time finish that capped a sumptuous team move featuring James Milner and Pablo Zabaleta.
The result moves Pellgrini's men into third, six points shy of leaders Arsenal, while Swansea lie 13th.
Joleon Lescott featured at centre-back in the absence of injury victim Matija Nastasic (calf) – the only change to the Manchester City XI that thrashed Tottenham seven days previously. Gerhard Tremmel, meanwhile, was preferred to Michel Vorm in goal for a Swansea team without Angel Rangel and Wilfried Bony due to respective calf and hamstring problems suffered during their Europa League defeat to Valencia on Thursday.
Tremmel made early stops from Sergio Aguero and Negredo but was rooted to the spot when the latter opened the scoring.
Jose Canas brought down Negredo 22 yards from goal and the forward steered the resulting free kick, from the right-hand edge of the area, into the far corner, assisted by Lescott and Martin Demichelis peeling off the edge of the Swansea wall.
The visitors responded well and Jonjo Shelvey twice tested City goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon, who was again selected ahead of Joe Hart, from long range before Alvaro Vazquez dragged wastefully wide after 21 minutes, having been played in by the ex-Liverpool midfielder.
Demichelis thudded a header from Nasri's 30th-minute corner against the bar but the former Bayern Munich centre-back's defensive display was far less convincing.
Having escaped punishment for pulling back Pablo Hernandez in his own box, Demichelis was nutmegged and left on his backside by De Guzman, who blazed the subsequent glorious chance over in the first half's final minute.
The angle closed cruelly on Aguero as he hit the side netting in the 53rd minute after collecting a raking ball with an exquisite touch and rounding Tremmel.
Yaya Toure was the provider on that occasion and the Ivory Coast midfielder tore at Swansea with one of his trademark driving runs in the 58th minute before finding Nasri, who cut inside Ashley Williams and produced an assured finish.
Swansea started to feel the pace as the game entered its final quarter and City right-back Zabaleta burst forward to chip narrowly over, while Aguero flashed a shot across the goalmouth from Milner's through-ball, having failed to convert the substitute's cross.
Nasri's final flourish arrived in the 77th minute and City will now aim to address their troublesome away form in trips to West Brom and Southampton over the next six days.
Nasri eyes cure for Man City travel sickness
Samir Nasri immediately turned his attentions towards Manchester City's poor away form after scoring twice to help see off Swansea City.
The in-form France playmaker bagged an excellent second-half double to secure a 3-0 win on Sunday after Alvaro Negredo's eighth-minute free-kick set Manuel Pellegrini's team on their way to a seventh win from as many Premier League matches at the Etihad Stadium this term.
City are now six points behind leaders Arsenal, who are the next visitors to Eastlands, however Pellegrini's men will look to address their wretched form on the road - which has brought just four points from six matches - in back-to-back games at West Brom and Southampton in the coming week.
Nasri told BBC Sport: "Everything is fine at the moment; we had a tough first half but we came back with the best intentions, scored three goals and kept a clean sheet so it's a good afternoon for us.
"We have to improve our form away from home and we have two games to do this [in the next seven days]. Six points is not a lot, in terms of the gap before we face Arsenal."
In light of the chastening 7-0 and 6-0 scorelines dished out to Norwich City and Tottenham respectively in City's last two home league games, Swansea might have feared the worst after Negredo's early opener.
Yet Michael Laudrup's team more than matched their opponents in the first half and Jonathan de Guzman spurned a glorious chance to level on the stroke of the interval.
Pellegrini again preferred Costel Pantilimon to Joe Hart in goal and the giant Romanian rewarded his boss with two fine first-half saves from Jonjo Shelvey.
"I'm very pleased because we won against a very difficult team, especially when they had possession," said the City manager.
"We didn't play very well in the first half but in the second we scored two goals and had more chances.
"Costel Pantilimon did very well; he didn't have too much work but when he needed to be there he really did well."
Samir Nasri immediately turned his attentions towards Manchester City's poor away form after scoring twice to help see off Swansea City.
The in-form France playmaker bagged an excellent second-half double to secure a 3-0 win on Sunday after Alvaro Negredo's eighth-minute free-kick set Manuel Pellegrini's team on their way to a seventh win from as many Premier League matches at the Etihad Stadium this term.
City are now six points behind leaders Arsenal, who are the next visitors to Eastlands, however Pellegrini's men will look to address their wretched form on the road - which has brought just four points from six matches - in back-to-back games at West Brom and Southampton in the coming week.
Nasri told BBC Sport: "Everything is fine at the moment; we had a tough first half but we came back with the best intentions, scored three goals and kept a clean sheet so it's a good afternoon for us.
"We have to improve our form away from home and we have two games to do this [in the next seven days]. Six points is not a lot, in terms of the gap before we face Arsenal."
In light of the chastening 7-0 and 6-0 scorelines dished out to Norwich City and Tottenham respectively in City's last two home league games, Swansea might have feared the worst after Negredo's early opener.
Yet Michael Laudrup's team more than matched their opponents in the first half and Jonathan de Guzman spurned a glorious chance to level on the stroke of the interval.
Pellegrini again preferred Costel Pantilimon to Joe Hart in goal and the giant Romanian rewarded his boss with two fine first-half saves from Jonjo Shelvey.
"I'm very pleased because we won against a very difficult team, especially when they had possession," said the City manager.
"We didn't play very well in the first half but in the second we scored two goals and had more chances.
"Costel Pantilimon did very well; he didn't have too much work but when he needed to be there he really did well."
Llorente: Juventus struggled to finish off Udinese
Fernando Llorente accepted that Juventus struggled to convert their chances in their 1-0 win over Udinese on Sunday, but was relieved with his late headed goal.
The hosts dominated the match but struggled to find the breakthrough and had to rely on the Spaniard’s late intervention to secure all three points.
The former Athletic Bilbao striker hasn’t been given the easiest of times by critics since arriving in Italy in the summer, but he feels that his performances are getting better and his goals are testament to that improvement.
"We are happy, it was a very tough game against a good team like Udinese," the 28-year-old told reporters after the match.
"We created many scoring chances but we could not convert them.
"Today we just had to win and we did that, the victory came in the final seconds after a great effort. My goal? I was hoping to do well, I'm working to continue to improve."
The result sees Antonio Conte’s side move three point clear at the top of the Serie A having won their last six games on the bounce and gave Gianluigi Buffon his eighth clean sheet of the season.
"A game like tonight's could have gone either way and nobody would have had cause for complaint with the final outcome," the Bianconeri captain commented after the game.
"There are wins that are worth double and this is certainly one of them."
The Turin side implemented a new policy against udinese to make sure there were no empty seats in the stadium, as local school children were allowed in for free - something both players think is a fantastic initiative.
"It was a beautiful thing to see all these kids here at the Juventus Stadium to watch the game," stated Llorente.
Buffon added: "It was nice to see the stands occupied, playing with empty seats is not a good advert for football."
Fernando Llorente accepted that Juventus struggled to convert their chances in their 1-0 win over Udinese on Sunday, but was relieved with his late headed goal.
The hosts dominated the match but struggled to find the breakthrough and had to rely on the Spaniard’s late intervention to secure all three points.
The former Athletic Bilbao striker hasn’t been given the easiest of times by critics since arriving in Italy in the summer, but he feels that his performances are getting better and his goals are testament to that improvement.
"We are happy, it was a very tough game against a good team like Udinese," the 28-year-old told reporters after the match.
"We created many scoring chances but we could not convert them.
"Today we just had to win and we did that, the victory came in the final seconds after a great effort. My goal? I was hoping to do well, I'm working to continue to improve."
The result sees Antonio Conte’s side move three point clear at the top of the Serie A having won their last six games on the bounce and gave Gianluigi Buffon his eighth clean sheet of the season.
"A game like tonight's could have gone either way and nobody would have had cause for complaint with the final outcome," the Bianconeri captain commented after the game.
"There are wins that are worth double and this is certainly one of them."
The Turin side implemented a new policy against udinese to make sure there were no empty seats in the stadium, as local school children were allowed in for free - something both players think is a fantastic initiative.
"It was a beautiful thing to see all these kids here at the Juventus Stadium to watch the game," stated Llorente.
Buffon added: "It was nice to see the stands occupied, playing with empty seats is not a good advert for football."
Aguero doesn't want to join Madrid - Pellegrini
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has dismissed claims Sergio Aguero will leave the club for Real Madrid next summer.
Newspaper reports on Sunday suggested that the Argentina star has been identified as the Spanish club's top transfer target.
But Pellegrini is in the dark over any such interest and is confident Aguero wants to stay in Manchester and has no interest in joining the Blancos.
"I don’t know anything about that [interest from Real Madrid]," Pellegrini told reporters. "I don’t think Sergio wants to leave so it’s not a problem for us."
Pellegrini also heaped praise on Samir Nasri, who scored twice in a 3-0 victory over Swansea City on Sunday.
He said: "I think that Samir played very well, especially in the second half. I think he is playing like he is free and happy, and he feels again like he is an important player. The way the team plays is very comfortable for him.
"You know that he is a big player. He has played here for three or four years and I have seen when he has played against me in the Champions League he is very good player.
"He is again playing in the way he knows how to play."
Despite his side not being at their absolute best, Pellegrini hailed his defence for keeping a Swansea side who dominated possession quiet for much of the match.
He added: "I am very pleased because we won against a very strong team. Swansea aren't easy to play against because they have a lot of possession of the ball.
"We played too quickly in the first half and after the goal we lost the ball too much. We defended very well and they had just one clear chance. We improved in the second half and scored twice more."
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has dismissed claims Sergio Aguero will leave the club for Real Madrid next summer.
Newspaper reports on Sunday suggested that the Argentina star has been identified as the Spanish club's top transfer target.
But Pellegrini is in the dark over any such interest and is confident Aguero wants to stay in Manchester and has no interest in joining the Blancos.
"I don’t know anything about that [interest from Real Madrid]," Pellegrini told reporters. "I don’t think Sergio wants to leave so it’s not a problem for us."
Pellegrini also heaped praise on Samir Nasri, who scored twice in a 3-0 victory over Swansea City on Sunday.
He said: "I think that Samir played very well, especially in the second half. I think he is playing like he is free and happy, and he feels again like he is an important player. The way the team plays is very comfortable for him.
"You know that he is a big player. He has played here for three or four years and I have seen when he has played against me in the Champions League he is very good player.
"He is again playing in the way he knows how to play."
Despite his side not being at their absolute best, Pellegrini hailed his defence for keeping a Swansea side who dominated possession quiet for much of the match.
He added: "I am very pleased because we won against a very strong team. Swansea aren't easy to play against because they have a lot of possession of the ball.
"We played too quickly in the first half and after the goal we lost the ball too much. We defended very well and they had just one clear chance. We improved in the second half and scored twice more."
Bale: Tottenham must be patient with Villas-Boas
Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale insists Andre Villas-Boas is a "great manager" and has urged the Tottenham board to remain patient with him.
Villas-Boas' future is the subject of much speculation following a four-match winless streak in the Premier League - a sequence that was extended on Sunday after a 2-2 draw with Manchester United in which his side twice threw away a lead.
The 6-0 thrashing at Manchester City last weekend saw the pressure mount on the Portuguese and Tottenham, who are currently ninth after 13 games, 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, despite having spent heavily in the close-season to bring in an array of new players.
Tottenham's lavish spree came as a result of Bale's departure to Real Madrid for a world record €100 million transfer fee and the 24-year-old feels Villas-Boas is still the right man for the job.
"I think he should be given time," he told BT Sport. "I think he's a great manager - he showed that last year.
"They're going through a little bit of a bad patch at the moment but I'm sure he's a good enough manager to pull everybody through, get out the other side and hopefully go on a good run now, catch up the rest and have a good season.
"They've been playing some good stuff. I just think they've been very unlucky in front of goal, just haven't been clinical enough really."
Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale insists Andre Villas-Boas is a "great manager" and has urged the Tottenham board to remain patient with him.
Villas-Boas' future is the subject of much speculation following a four-match winless streak in the Premier League - a sequence that was extended on Sunday after a 2-2 draw with Manchester United in which his side twice threw away a lead.
The 6-0 thrashing at Manchester City last weekend saw the pressure mount on the Portuguese and Tottenham, who are currently ninth after 13 games, 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, despite having spent heavily in the close-season to bring in an array of new players.
Tottenham's lavish spree came as a result of Bale's departure to Real Madrid for a world record €100 million transfer fee and the 24-year-old feels Villas-Boas is still the right man for the job.
"I think he should be given time," he told BT Sport. "I think he's a great manager - he showed that last year.
"They're going through a little bit of a bad patch at the moment but I'm sure he's a good enough manager to pull everybody through, get out the other side and hopefully go on a good run now, catch up the rest and have a good season.
"They've been playing some good stuff. I just think they've been very unlucky in front of goal, just haven't been clinical enough really."
Pepe: Madrid showed we can cope without Ronaldo
Real Madrid defender Pepe has claimed that his club and international colleague Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the world, but that they can cope in his absence.
Ronaldo was sidelined for the second consecutive game after suffering an injury in the 5-0 hammering of Almeria last weekend.
Despite his absence los Blancos produced a formidable display to comfortably defeat Valladolid 4-0, with Gareth Bale netting a hat-trick, and Pepe believes it demonstrates they can manage without their star man.
Speaking to the club's official website the Portugese defender said: "Cristiano is the best in the world and we need him, but the rest of the team worked very well today. [Karim] Benzema, [Angel] Di Maria and Isco all had great games."
Real have been in fine form in recent weeks, scoring 18 goals in their last four games after an indifferent start to the season.
And Pepe insisted the players are beginning to adapt to Carlo Ancelotti's tactical methods, particularly their high pressing game.
He added: "We started very well in this game, pressing the opponents high up the pitch making our job in defence much easier. We have very clear ideas, we are trying to do things well and the important thing is to continue this good form."
The win has seen Real Madrid close the gap on the early frontrunners Atletico Madrid and Barcelona to only three points, though Barca play fifth-placed Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
Real Madrid defender Pepe has claimed that his club and international colleague Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the world, but that they can cope in his absence.
Ronaldo was sidelined for the second consecutive game after suffering an injury in the 5-0 hammering of Almeria last weekend.
Despite his absence los Blancos produced a formidable display to comfortably defeat Valladolid 4-0, with Gareth Bale netting a hat-trick, and Pepe believes it demonstrates they can manage without their star man.
Speaking to the club's official website the Portugese defender said: "Cristiano is the best in the world and we need him, but the rest of the team worked very well today. [Karim] Benzema, [Angel] Di Maria and Isco all had great games."
Real have been in fine form in recent weeks, scoring 18 goals in their last four games after an indifferent start to the season.
And Pepe insisted the players are beginning to adapt to Carlo Ancelotti's tactical methods, particularly their high pressing game.
He added: "We started very well in this game, pressing the opponents high up the pitch making our job in defence much easier. We have very clear ideas, we are trying to do things well and the important thing is to continue this good form."
The win has seen Real Madrid close the gap on the early frontrunners Atletico Madrid and Barcelona to only three points, though Barca play fifth-placed Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
Fulham confirm Jol exit
Fulham have parted ways with Martin Jol following the club's 3-0 loss to West Ham, installing head coach Rene Meulensteen in his place.
The former Tottenham boss had long been under pressure for an uninspiring start to the season and speculation over his future increased after his compatriot was recruited to work alongside him on November 13.
After defeat to the Hammers, Fulham find themselves in the Premier League relegation zone with 10 points after 13 games, their only victories coming over fellow strugglers Sunderland, Stoke City and Crystal Palace.
"Today I spoke with Martin to thank him for his efforts on behalf of Fulham over the past three seasons and, in particular, since my becoming chairman earlier this year," owner Shahid Khan wrote in a club statement on Sunday.
"Martin was very gracious and I appreciate his understanding of the situation. There is no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our club.
"However, our poor form and results this season are undeniable and Fulham supporters deserve better. With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary.
"Rene Meulensteen was brought to Fulham to assist Martin and today was offered the challenge and opportunity to step in for Martin. I thank Rene for accepting and now we move forward. I have great confidence in Rene and high expectations for our squad to respond."
Meulensteen added: "I appreciate the faith Mr Khan has put in me and will do my very best to honour his trus. We aim to get Fulham back on track, starting Wednesday night [against Tottenham]."
Fulham have parted ways with Martin Jol following the club's 3-0 loss to West Ham, installing head coach Rene Meulensteen in his place.
The former Tottenham boss had long been under pressure for an uninspiring start to the season and speculation over his future increased after his compatriot was recruited to work alongside him on November 13.
After defeat to the Hammers, Fulham find themselves in the Premier League relegation zone with 10 points after 13 games, their only victories coming over fellow strugglers Sunderland, Stoke City and Crystal Palace.
"Today I spoke with Martin to thank him for his efforts on behalf of Fulham over the past three seasons and, in particular, since my becoming chairman earlier this year," owner Shahid Khan wrote in a club statement on Sunday.
"Martin was very gracious and I appreciate his understanding of the situation. There is no question Martin is an excellent football man and he has my utmost respect for the commitment he made to our club.
"However, our poor form and results this season are undeniable and Fulham supporters deserve better. With more than half the season still ahead, an immediate change was necessary.
"Rene Meulensteen was brought to Fulham to assist Martin and today was offered the challenge and opportunity to step in for Martin. I thank Rene for accepting and now we move forward. I have great confidence in Rene and high expectations for our squad to respond."
Meulensteen added: "I appreciate the faith Mr Khan has put in me and will do my very best to honour his trus. We aim to get Fulham back on track, starting Wednesday night [against Tottenham]."
Liverpool striker Sturridge out for up to eight weeks
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed that striker Daniel Sturridge will be sidelined for up to eight weeks with an ankle injury.
The England international rolled over on his ankle in training on Friday, causing it to sprain, and was rated as touch-and-go ahead of Sunday's clash with Hull City but is now not set to return until after the start of the new year.
The forward was forced to have scans after limping away with the injury as Liverpool medical staff could not determine the extent of the damage caused. The 24-year-old's absence saw Luis Suarez start on his own up front against the Tigers.
"Daniel is probably going to be out six-to-eight weeks," Rodgers told Sky Sports. "It was something we thought was never going to be as serious as that, to be honest.
"He slipped over in training and we thought initially it was his toe. He got brought inside straight away and he was taken for a scan straight away and it showed he'd actually got a ligament strain.
"It's a big blow for us because he's been brilliant since he's come in. We've played a few systems this year, which has been brilliant, and it's given me the flexibility to change it around. It's about the players and we've got some good ones to come in."
Sturridge is Liverpool's top scorer so far this season, netting 11 goals in 14 games, and his partnership with Suarez has yielded 20 in total. The rest of the Reds squad put together have just seven to their names.
The Christmas period sees a busy and challenging schedule for Brendan Rodgers's side, with trips to Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea before the year is up.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has revealed that striker Daniel Sturridge will be sidelined for up to eight weeks with an ankle injury.
The England international rolled over on his ankle in training on Friday, causing it to sprain, and was rated as touch-and-go ahead of Sunday's clash with Hull City but is now not set to return until after the start of the new year.
The forward was forced to have scans after limping away with the injury as Liverpool medical staff could not determine the extent of the damage caused. The 24-year-old's absence saw Luis Suarez start on his own up front against the Tigers.
"Daniel is probably going to be out six-to-eight weeks," Rodgers told Sky Sports. "It was something we thought was never going to be as serious as that, to be honest.
"He slipped over in training and we thought initially it was his toe. He got brought inside straight away and he was taken for a scan straight away and it showed he'd actually got a ligament strain.
"It's a big blow for us because he's been brilliant since he's come in. We've played a few systems this year, which has been brilliant, and it's given me the flexibility to change it around. It's about the players and we've got some good ones to come in."
Sturridge is Liverpool's top scorer so far this season, netting 11 goals in 14 games, and his partnership with Suarez has yielded 20 in total. The rest of the Reds squad put together have just seven to their names.
The Christmas period sees a busy and challenging schedule for Brendan Rodgers's side, with trips to Tottenham, Manchester City and Chelsea before the year is up.
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