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Tottenham 0-3 West Ham: Spurs stunned as Hammers run riot
Tottenham slumped to a 3-0 defeat at home to West Ham following second-half goals from Winston Reid, Ricardo Vaz Te and Ravel Morrison.
After a blank opening 45 minutes, Sam Allardyce's men struck three times in the space of 13 minutes to secure their first away win of the season, leaving Andre Villas-Boas' side three points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
It was the visitors who crafted the first chance of the game as Kevin Nolan headed wide from Stewart Downing's cross.
Allardyce's side frustrated Tottenham in the early going, with the hosts struggling to create clear-cut opportunities despite dictating the majority of the play.
It took over 30 minutes for Spurs to finally exploit an opening in the West Ham defence, but Paulinho could only volley wide after latching on to a delivery from Andros Townsend on the right.
Townsend was at the heart of almost every Tottenham attack, and it was his ball in that should have provided the opening goal, but Jermain Defoe failed to get the telling touch with the goal at his mercy.
West Ham arguably created the best chance of the first half in the dying stages as Nolan lashed a volley across the face of goal following a clever Mark Noble free kick.
Tottenham made a rapid start to the second half, with Defoe denied twice by West Ham goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen as they searched for the breakthrough.
West Ham came close to opening the scoring when James Tomkins' close-range header was clawed out by Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, but they did get the opening goal just after 66 minutes thanks to Reid.
The New Zealand international slotted West Ham's first away goal of the season from close range after his initial header from Downing's corner was blocked by Nolan.
And more misery was to come for Tottenham, as Vaz Te doubled West Ham's advantage just six minutes later.
Noble set up the goal, sliding through a neat ball into the path of Vaz Te, and the Portuguese forward bundled home at the second attempt following a fine save from Lloris.
Villas-Boas threw Roberto Soldado into the fray in an attempt to turn the game around, but West Ham put the tie beyond doubt after Morrison's superb solo goal.
The former Manchester United midfielder surged clear from inside his own half, beating Jan Vertonghen and Michael Dawson before lofting a composed finish into the back of the net.
Tottenham slumped to a 3-0 defeat at home to West Ham following second-half goals from Winston Reid, Ricardo Vaz Te and Ravel Morrison.
After a blank opening 45 minutes, Sam Allardyce's men struck three times in the space of 13 minutes to secure their first away win of the season, leaving Andre Villas-Boas' side three points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
It was the visitors who crafted the first chance of the game as Kevin Nolan headed wide from Stewart Downing's cross.
Allardyce's side frustrated Tottenham in the early going, with the hosts struggling to create clear-cut opportunities despite dictating the majority of the play.
It took over 30 minutes for Spurs to finally exploit an opening in the West Ham defence, but Paulinho could only volley wide after latching on to a delivery from Andros Townsend on the right.
Townsend was at the heart of almost every Tottenham attack, and it was his ball in that should have provided the opening goal, but Jermain Defoe failed to get the telling touch with the goal at his mercy.
West Ham arguably created the best chance of the first half in the dying stages as Nolan lashed a volley across the face of goal following a clever Mark Noble free kick.
Tottenham made a rapid start to the second half, with Defoe denied twice by West Ham goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen as they searched for the breakthrough.
West Ham came close to opening the scoring when James Tomkins' close-range header was clawed out by Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, but they did get the opening goal just after 66 minutes thanks to Reid.
The New Zealand international slotted West Ham's first away goal of the season from close range after his initial header from Downing's corner was blocked by Nolan.
And more misery was to come for Tottenham, as Vaz Te doubled West Ham's advantage just six minutes later.
Noble set up the goal, sliding through a neat ball into the path of Vaz Te, and the Portuguese forward bundled home at the second attempt following a fine save from Lloris.
Villas-Boas threw Roberto Soldado into the fray in an attempt to turn the game around, but West Ham put the tie beyond doubt after Morrison's superb solo goal.
The former Manchester United midfielder surged clear from inside his own half, beating Jan Vertonghen and Michael Dawson before lofting a composed finish into the back of the net.
Olympique de Marseille 1-2 Paris Saint-Germain: Ibrahimovic penalty gives 10-man Parisiens three precious points
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a second-half penalty as a 10-man Paris Saint-Germain side claimed a superb 2-1 win at Olympique de Marseille on Sunday.
PSG were reduced to 10 men after just 34 minutes when Thiago Motta was sent off for a crude foul on Mathieu Valbuena in the penalty area at Stade Velodrome.
And after Andre Ayew slotted the resultant spot-kick, Marseille appeared set for victory against their fierce rivals.
But PSG - who had not won at Marseille since 2008 - staged a stirring fightback, with Maxwell's header on the stroke of half time giving them hope.
And the capital club completed the turnaround after 66 minutes, with Ibrahimovic stroking home the game's second penalty to give Laurent Blanc's men an excellent victory.
PSG are now level on points with Ligue 1 table-toppers Monaco, but sit second on goal difference.
PSG were unchanged from their 3-0 Champions League win over Benfica, while Jordan Ayew replaced Saber Khelifa in attack for Marseille.
Marseille made the brighter start to the match, with attacking midfielder Mathieu Valbuena forcing PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu into a smart save from his curling free-kick.
Sirigu was then called on to make a double save to deny Jordan Ayew and then Valbuena, while Andre Ayew should have opened the scoring but headed Rod Fanni's near-post cross just wide.
The hosts were handed a golden opportunity to seize the advantage just before the half-hour mark though, when they won a penalty after Motta's poor challenge.
The midfielder was given a straight red card for the high tackle, after he failed to deal with a ball into the box, and Andre Ayew seized the opportunity, emphatically converting from 12 yards to delight the raucous home crowd.
PSG manager Laurent Blanc tinkered with his side, introducing Adrien Rabiot for Ezequiel Lavezzi in a bid to bolster their midfield, and they nearly levelled proceedings shortly after when Marseille goalkeeper Steve Mandanda made an excellent save to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, Mandanda could be considered to be at fault for PSG's equaliser, as his attempt to claim Gregory van der Wiel's lofted cross was unsuccessful, with defender Maxwell beating him to the ball to head home from close range just before half time.
The visitors looked the more comfortable of the two sides in the second half, although they were fortunate not to fall behind as Sirigu turned Dimitri Payet's effort round the post.
Marseille failed to take full advantage of their numerical advantage and were made to pay midway through the second half when Andre Ayew was penalised for tripping Marquinhos just inside the area.
Ibrahimovic was unfazed by lasers shone in his face from the crowd, coolly tucking his penalty into the bottom corner to give the defending champions the lead.
Marseille pressed in the closing stages to try and earn a share of the spoils, but their best effort - a header from substitute Florian Thauvin - was comfortably saved by Sirigu, as PSG held on for a gritty away win.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a second-half penalty as a 10-man Paris Saint-Germain side claimed a superb 2-1 win at Olympique de Marseille on Sunday.
PSG were reduced to 10 men after just 34 minutes when Thiago Motta was sent off for a crude foul on Mathieu Valbuena in the penalty area at Stade Velodrome.
And after Andre Ayew slotted the resultant spot-kick, Marseille appeared set for victory against their fierce rivals.
But PSG - who had not won at Marseille since 2008 - staged a stirring fightback, with Maxwell's header on the stroke of half time giving them hope.
And the capital club completed the turnaround after 66 minutes, with Ibrahimovic stroking home the game's second penalty to give Laurent Blanc's men an excellent victory.
PSG are now level on points with Ligue 1 table-toppers Monaco, but sit second on goal difference.
PSG were unchanged from their 3-0 Champions League win over Benfica, while Jordan Ayew replaced Saber Khelifa in attack for Marseille.
Marseille made the brighter start to the match, with attacking midfielder Mathieu Valbuena forcing PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu into a smart save from his curling free-kick.
Sirigu was then called on to make a double save to deny Jordan Ayew and then Valbuena, while Andre Ayew should have opened the scoring but headed Rod Fanni's near-post cross just wide.
The hosts were handed a golden opportunity to seize the advantage just before the half-hour mark though, when they won a penalty after Motta's poor challenge.
The midfielder was given a straight red card for the high tackle, after he failed to deal with a ball into the box, and Andre Ayew seized the opportunity, emphatically converting from 12 yards to delight the raucous home crowd.
PSG manager Laurent Blanc tinkered with his side, introducing Adrien Rabiot for Ezequiel Lavezzi in a bid to bolster their midfield, and they nearly levelled proceedings shortly after when Marseille goalkeeper Steve Mandanda made an excellent save to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, Mandanda could be considered to be at fault for PSG's equaliser, as his attempt to claim Gregory van der Wiel's lofted cross was unsuccessful, with defender Maxwell beating him to the ball to head home from close range just before half time.
The visitors looked the more comfortable of the two sides in the second half, although they were fortunate not to fall behind as Sirigu turned Dimitri Payet's effort round the post.
Marseille failed to take full advantage of their numerical advantage and were made to pay midway through the second half when Andre Ayew was penalised for tripping Marquinhos just inside the area.
Ibrahimovic was unfazed by lasers shone in his face from the crowd, coolly tucking his penalty into the bottom corner to give the defending champions the lead.
Marseille pressed in the closing stages to try and earn a share of the spoils, but their best effort - a header from substitute Florian Thauvin - was comfortably saved by Sirigu, as PSG held on for a gritty away win.
Juventus 3-2 AC Milan: Bianconeri bounce back to beat 10-man Rossoneri
Juventus continued to put pressure on second-placed Napoli after a superb second-half performance helped them to a 3-2 win over AC Milan.
The visitors made the perfect start when Sulley Muntari's opener with just 20 seconds on the clock stunned the home crowd, but Andrea Pirlo levelled matters 14 minutes later before Sebastian Giovinco and Giorgio Chiellini turned things around after the break.
Milan were always facing an uphill struggle when Philippe Mexes was sent off with 15 minutes to play, and a late Muntari second proved scant consolation.
Simone Padoin, Claudio Marchisio and Fabio Quagliarella all came into the Juventus starting line-up as boss Antonio Conte made changes after their disappointing draw with Galatasaray in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Massimiliano Allegri made two alterations from his side's 1-1 draw against Ajax, with Antonio Nocerino named in midfield and Alessandro Matri coming in to face his former club, for the suspended Mario Balotelli.
Juventus' hangover from European action continued as they fell asleep inside the first minute to go behind after just 20 seconds as Nocerino's wayward shot found Muntari at the far post and the midfielder side-footed the ball past the helpless Gianluigi Buffon.
Quagliarella had a glorious chance to level as Juve sought a response, but he lent back at the pivotal moment, before Kwadwo Asamoah stung Christian Abbiati's palms as the goalkeeper turned the ball over for a corner.
The equaliser was not long in coming, however, as Pirlo pulled the home side level in the 15th minute with a free kick that found the bottom corner after Nigel de Jong had brought down Carlos Tevez.
The experienced midfielder curled the ball expertly over the wall, although Abbiati could have done better as he palmed the ball into the net.
The frantic pace eventually subsided, although Juventus had strong penalty claims turned down when Tevez was brought down inside the box just before the break - the Argentine striker's appeals waved away after Kevin Constant's apparent push.
Tempers flared early in the second half when Mexes punched Chiellini, although amazingly the referee failed to spot the incident and the Milan defender escaped punishment.
With both sides cancelling each other out, Conte threw on Giovinco to replace Quagliarella soon after - and within a few minutes the forward had repaid that faith.
The Italy international picked up the loose ball on the edge of the box after 69 minutes following more Juventus pressure, before finding room to smash his shot into the bottom corner.
The game swung further in Juve's favour when Mexes was sent off for a second yellow card - failing to escape for a second time after a foul on Giovinco on the edge of the box.
And when Chiellini added a third from the resulting free-kick, reacting first after Pirlo's brilliant effort had cannoned back off the crossbar, the victory was secured.
There was still time for Muntari to add a second for Milan when his deflected effort surprised Buffon at the near post, but Juve held on in a nervous last minute.
Juventus continued to put pressure on second-placed Napoli after a superb second-half performance helped them to a 3-2 win over AC Milan.
The visitors made the perfect start when Sulley Muntari's opener with just 20 seconds on the clock stunned the home crowd, but Andrea Pirlo levelled matters 14 minutes later before Sebastian Giovinco and Giorgio Chiellini turned things around after the break.
Milan were always facing an uphill struggle when Philippe Mexes was sent off with 15 minutes to play, and a late Muntari second proved scant consolation.
Simone Padoin, Claudio Marchisio and Fabio Quagliarella all came into the Juventus starting line-up as boss Antonio Conte made changes after their disappointing draw with Galatasaray in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Massimiliano Allegri made two alterations from his side's 1-1 draw against Ajax, with Antonio Nocerino named in midfield and Alessandro Matri coming in to face his former club, for the suspended Mario Balotelli.
Juventus' hangover from European action continued as they fell asleep inside the first minute to go behind after just 20 seconds as Nocerino's wayward shot found Muntari at the far post and the midfielder side-footed the ball past the helpless Gianluigi Buffon.
Quagliarella had a glorious chance to level as Juve sought a response, but he lent back at the pivotal moment, before Kwadwo Asamoah stung Christian Abbiati's palms as the goalkeeper turned the ball over for a corner.
The equaliser was not long in coming, however, as Pirlo pulled the home side level in the 15th minute with a free kick that found the bottom corner after Nigel de Jong had brought down Carlos Tevez.
The experienced midfielder curled the ball expertly over the wall, although Abbiati could have done better as he palmed the ball into the net.
The frantic pace eventually subsided, although Juventus had strong penalty claims turned down when Tevez was brought down inside the box just before the break - the Argentine striker's appeals waved away after Kevin Constant's apparent push.
Tempers flared early in the second half when Mexes punched Chiellini, although amazingly the referee failed to spot the incident and the Milan defender escaped punishment.
With both sides cancelling each other out, Conte threw on Giovinco to replace Quagliarella soon after - and within a few minutes the forward had repaid that faith.
The Italy international picked up the loose ball on the edge of the box after 69 minutes following more Juventus pressure, before finding room to smash his shot into the bottom corner.
The game swung further in Juve's favour when Mexes was sent off for a second yellow card - failing to escape for a second time after a foul on Giovinco on the edge of the box.
And when Chiellini added a third from the resulting free-kick, reacting first after Pirlo's brilliant effort had cannoned back off the crossbar, the victory was secured.
There was still time for Muntari to add a second for Milan when his deflected effort surprised Buffon at the near post, but Juve held on in a nervous last minute.
Olympique de Marseille 1-2 Paris Saint-Germain: Ibrahimovic penalty gives 10-man Parisiens three precious points
Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a second-half penalty as a 10-man Paris Saint-Germain side claimed a superb 2-1 win at Olympique de Marseille on Sunday.
PSG were reduced to 10 men after just 34 minutes when Thiago Motta was sent off for a crude foul on Mathieu Valbuena in the penalty area at Stade Velodrome.
And after Andre Ayew slotted the resultant spot-kick, Marseille appeared set for victory against their fierce rivals.
But PSG - who had not won at Marseille since 2008 - staged a stirring fightback, with Maxwell's header on the stroke of half time giving them hope.
And the capital club completed the turnaround after 66 minutes, with Ibrahimovic stroking home the game's second penalty to give Laurent Blanc's men an excellent victory.
PSG are now level on points with Ligue 1 table-toppers Monaco, but sit second on goal difference.
PSG were unchanged from their 3-0 Champions League win over Benfica, while Jordan Ayew replaced Saber Khelifa in attack for Marseille.
Marseille made the brighter start to the match, with attacking midfielder Mathieu Valbuena forcing PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu into a smart save from his curling free-kick.
Sirigu was then called on to make a double save to deny Jordan Ayew and then Valbuena, while Andre Ayew should have opened the scoring but headed Rod Fanni's near-post cross just wide.
The hosts were handed a golden opportunity to seize the advantage just before the half-hour mark though, when they won a penalty after Motta's poor challenge.
The midfielder was given a straight red card for the high tackle, after he failed to deal with a ball into the box, and Andre Ayew seized the opportunity, emphatically converting from 12 yards to delight the raucous home crowd.
PSG manager Laurent Blanc tinkered with his side, introducing Adrien Rabiot for Ezequiel Lavezzi in a bid to bolster their midfield, and they nearly levelled proceedings shortly after when Marseille goalkeeper Steve Mandanda made an excellent save to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
However, Mandanda could be considered to be at fault for PSG's equaliser, as his attempt to claim Gregory van der Wiel's lofted cross was unsuccessful, with defender Maxwell beating him to the ball to head home from close range just before half time.
The visitors looked the more comfortable of the two sides in the second half, although they were fortunate not to fall behind as Sirigu turned Dimitri Payet's effort round the post.
Marseille failed to take full advantage of their numerical advantage and were made to pay midway through the second half when Andre Ayew was penalised for tripping Marquinhos just inside the area.
Ibrahimovic was unfazed by lasers shone in his face from the crowd, coolly tucking his penalty into the bottom corner to give the defending champions the lead.
Marseille pressed in the closing stages to try and earn a share of the spoils, but their best effort - a header from substitute Florian Thauvin - was comfortably saved by Sirigu, as PSG held on for a gritty away win.
PSG 2nd in the table :/ $Rules, Monaco on the trot
Blanc salutes PSG's fighting spirit
Laurent Blanc hailed his 10-man Paris Saint-Germain side after they came from behind to win 2-1 at Olympique de Marseille on Sunday night.
The Ligue 1 champions appeared to be heading for defeat 11 minutes before half-time when Andre Ayew gave Marseille the lead from the penalty spot following Thiago Motta's foul on Mathieu Valbuena, with the Italy international's indiscretion also earning him a red card.
However, PSG overturned the deficit despite Marseille's numerical advantage, with Maxwell equalising with a header on the stroke of half-time, before Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted the winner from the spot after Ayew had brought down Marquinhos.
"The will was a very important element of this game because without it we could do nothing," Blanc told reporters after the game.
"There was also an impressive solidarity and quality in the game. For this kind of game you need good players and a good state of mind.
"We always believed despite the penalty and the red card. At half-time we were glad to have equalised but we wanted to win."
PSG, who move level on points with leaders Monaco, will look to continue their unbeaten start to the season after the international break when they welcome Bastia to the Parc des Princes.
Laurent Blanc hailed his 10-man Paris Saint-Germain side after they came from behind to win 2-1 at Olympique de Marseille on Sunday night.
The Ligue 1 champions appeared to be heading for defeat 11 minutes before half-time when Andre Ayew gave Marseille the lead from the penalty spot following Thiago Motta's foul on Mathieu Valbuena, with the Italy international's indiscretion also earning him a red card.
However, PSG overturned the deficit despite Marseille's numerical advantage, with Maxwell equalising with a header on the stroke of half-time, before Zlatan Ibrahimovic netted the winner from the spot after Ayew had brought down Marquinhos.
"The will was a very important element of this game because without it we could do nothing," Blanc told reporters after the game.
"There was also an impressive solidarity and quality in the game. For this kind of game you need good players and a good state of mind.
"We always believed despite the penalty and the red card. At half-time we were glad to have equalised but we wanted to win."
PSG, who move level on points with leaders Monaco, will look to continue their unbeaten start to the season after the international break when they welcome Bastia to the Parc des Princes.
Conte: Giovinco has proven Juventus fans wrong
Juventus coach Antonio Conte says Sebastian Giovinco has proven the fans that turned against him wrong for having done so.
The 26-year-old attacker scored within two minutes of coming on in place of Fabio Quagliarella in Sunday night's 3-2 win over AC Milan, as the Bianconeri came from behind to earn three vital points.
Conte hopes the forward’s influential contribution in such a big game will finally secure him the full support of the club’s followers.
"I am glad that after being asked by people so many times about this Giovinco finally scored a decisive goal," the Juve boss told Sky Sport Italia.
"I am happy for Seba, as he gets too much criticism from the Juve fans.
"It is not fair, as he is as good as the other strikers and needs support. I hope the rapport with the supporters can improve because of this goal."
The dramatic victory against the 10 men of Milan, who had Philippe Mexes sent off, saw the back-to-back Serie A champions continue a strong start to the new campaign by making it 19 points from seven matches.
Conte said he had to be impressed with such a points return but did admit his side still need to sharpen up, after conceding the opening goal for the sixth time in their last seven outings.
He continued: "When the fixture list was drawn up, everyone said we had been given a really tough start. I would have been more than happy with six wins and a draw by this stage.
"It was a good performance tonight, but we have to improve. At the moment we are conceding with the first shot on target, so that is an element of bad luck but also our own mistakes.
"We have been living with this situation for a while. It is almost as if we need a slap to wake us up. The first goal today was crazy, I almost didn't see Milan had scored after 20 seconds.
"After that, we did well to get back on our feet against a strong Milan side."
Following the international break, Juve will be back in action with a tricky clash away to Fiorentina, followed by a trip to the Bernabeu to play Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Juventus coach Antonio Conte says Sebastian Giovinco has proven the fans that turned against him wrong for having done so.
The 26-year-old attacker scored within two minutes of coming on in place of Fabio Quagliarella in Sunday night's 3-2 win over AC Milan, as the Bianconeri came from behind to earn three vital points.
Conte hopes the forward’s influential contribution in such a big game will finally secure him the full support of the club’s followers.
"I am glad that after being asked by people so many times about this Giovinco finally scored a decisive goal," the Juve boss told Sky Sport Italia.
"I am happy for Seba, as he gets too much criticism from the Juve fans.
"It is not fair, as he is as good as the other strikers and needs support. I hope the rapport with the supporters can improve because of this goal."
The dramatic victory against the 10 men of Milan, who had Philippe Mexes sent off, saw the back-to-back Serie A champions continue a strong start to the new campaign by making it 19 points from seven matches.
Conte said he had to be impressed with such a points return but did admit his side still need to sharpen up, after conceding the opening goal for the sixth time in their last seven outings.
He continued: "When the fixture list was drawn up, everyone said we had been given a really tough start. I would have been more than happy with six wins and a draw by this stage.
"It was a good performance tonight, but we have to improve. At the moment we are conceding with the first shot on target, so that is an element of bad luck but also our own mistakes.
"We have been living with this situation for a while. It is almost as if we need a slap to wake us up. The first goal today was crazy, I almost didn't see Milan had scored after 20 seconds.
"After that, we did well to get back on our feet against a strong Milan side."
Following the international break, Juve will be back in action with a tricky clash away to Fiorentina, followed by a trip to the Bernabeu to play Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Chiellini: Mexes should be punished heavily
Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has called for Philippe Mexes to be "punished heavily" for allegedly punching him during Sunday night's 3-2 win over AC Milan.
The Bianconeri vice-captain was left seething after the French defender appeared to strike him on the head during the second half of the game in Turin and although Mexes was later given his marching orders for a separate offence, Chiellini feels his opponent should be facing tough retrospective action.
“This sort of thing needs to be punished heavily because it is not fair and it is not football,” the 29-year-old told Sky Italia after the final whistle.
“I’ve had some tough tackles in my time, but I don’t recall ever doing that.
“Some people are repeat offenders. Tougness and determination in football should be praised, because you have a hard tackle and shake hands, but this is not football.”
Milan’s late fight-back did nothing to improve the mood of Chiellini, who was left frustrated by the way his side allowed Massimiliano Allegri’s men back into the match late on.
“It’s a victory but we can’t enjoy it fully as we once again conceded a late goal and risked letting Milan draw," the Italy international lamented.
“If we’d conceded that Cristian Zapata header, we should’ve been left without sleep for a week.
“If we want to be a great team, we have to improve these things.”
It wasn’t all doom and gloom from Chiellini - who now goes off to join Cesare Prandelli’s national squad for Italy’s upcoming World Cup Qualfiers - as he was able to joke about finding the net for the first time in the league this season.
“I think I was helped by sliding in because I’m used to that movement, being a defender," he said of the way in which he slid to fire home the rebound from an Andrea Pirlo free kick.
“It was also my third goal with my right foot in the last two months. I’m not good at using it elsewhere, but at least for the goals it’s nice.”
Juve's victory over Milan draws them back level on points with second-placed Napoli, and just two shy of leaders Roma.
Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini has called for Philippe Mexes to be "punished heavily" for allegedly punching him during Sunday night's 3-2 win over AC Milan.
The Bianconeri vice-captain was left seething after the French defender appeared to strike him on the head during the second half of the game in Turin and although Mexes was later given his marching orders for a separate offence, Chiellini feels his opponent should be facing tough retrospective action.
“This sort of thing needs to be punished heavily because it is not fair and it is not football,” the 29-year-old told Sky Italia after the final whistle.
“I’ve had some tough tackles in my time, but I don’t recall ever doing that.
“Some people are repeat offenders. Tougness and determination in football should be praised, because you have a hard tackle and shake hands, but this is not football.”
Milan’s late fight-back did nothing to improve the mood of Chiellini, who was left frustrated by the way his side allowed Massimiliano Allegri’s men back into the match late on.
“It’s a victory but we can’t enjoy it fully as we once again conceded a late goal and risked letting Milan draw," the Italy international lamented.
“If we’d conceded that Cristian Zapata header, we should’ve been left without sleep for a week.
“If we want to be a great team, we have to improve these things.”
It wasn’t all doom and gloom from Chiellini - who now goes off to join Cesare Prandelli’s national squad for Italy’s upcoming World Cup Qualfiers - as he was able to joke about finding the net for the first time in the league this season.
“I think I was helped by sliding in because I’m used to that movement, being a defender," he said of the way in which he slid to fire home the rebound from an Andrea Pirlo free kick.
“It was also my third goal with my right foot in the last two months. I’m not good at using it elsewhere, but at least for the goals it’s nice.”
Juve's victory over Milan draws them back level on points with second-placed Napoli, and just two shy of leaders Roma.
Allegri: Milan just made more mistakes than Juventus
AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri was left lamenting his side's sloppiness after Sunday's 3-2 defeat at Juventus.
Sulley Muntari put the Rossoneri ahead inside the opening 20 seconds but the hosts levelled through Andrea Pirlo before surging clear in the second half with goals from Sebastian Giovinco and Giorgio Chiellini either side of Philippe Mexes.
Despite their numerica advantage, Milan kept battling right until the end and pulled a goal back through Muntari, again, but they were unable to salvage a point, with Allegri arguing that they had ultimately paid the price for an error-strewn display.
"It was a good performance, though we made a few mistakes and allowed Juventus too many chances," the Rossoneri boss told Sky Italia.
"Both sides did well, but we made more errors than they did. On the first goal, we lost the ball in our own half and sparked a counter (and were) forced to give the free-kick. It's normal between two quality sides that a mistake will be paid for.
"I'd say overall in terms of performance that the team allowed little to Juventus, although we should have closed down their long-range shooters earlier.
"It's a long season, there is time to recover and we will do everything possible to achieve that. We'll see before the Christmas break where we are."
Milan's defeat - their third of the season - leaves them 12th in Serie A, 13 points behind leaders Roma.
AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri was left lamenting his side's sloppiness after Sunday's 3-2 defeat at Juventus.
Sulley Muntari put the Rossoneri ahead inside the opening 20 seconds but the hosts levelled through Andrea Pirlo before surging clear in the second half with goals from Sebastian Giovinco and Giorgio Chiellini either side of Philippe Mexes.
Despite their numerica advantage, Milan kept battling right until the end and pulled a goal back through Muntari, again, but they were unable to salvage a point, with Allegri arguing that they had ultimately paid the price for an error-strewn display.
"It was a good performance, though we made a few mistakes and allowed Juventus too many chances," the Rossoneri boss told Sky Italia.
"Both sides did well, but we made more errors than they did. On the first goal, we lost the ball in our own half and sparked a counter (and were) forced to give the free-kick. It's normal between two quality sides that a mistake will be paid for.
"I'd say overall in terms of performance that the team allowed little to Juventus, although we should have closed down their long-range shooters earlier.
"It's a long season, there is time to recover and we will do everything possible to achieve that. We'll see before the Christmas break where we are."
Milan's defeat - their third of the season - leaves them 12th in Serie A, 13 points behind leaders Roma.
Spain turn to Michu after Villa withdrawal
Michu has been drafted into the Spain squad for their final two World Cup Qualifiers, after David Villa was forced to pull out through injury.
The Swansea striker has never previously been called up by his country, but has drawn praise from every corner of the game for his performances since moving to the Liberty Stadium from Rayo Vallecano back in 2012, having netted 20 times in 41 league appearances for the Welsh outfit.
Villa had been expected to lead the line for La Roja in their final Group I matches against Belarus and Georgia, after Fernando Torres was forced to withdraw from Vicente del Bosque’s side with a knee injury.
However, the Atletico Madrid attacker was also forced to drop out after sustaining an injury to his left ankle as the Rojiblancos maintained their 100 per cent start to the season with a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday afternoon.
By replacing Spain’s record goalscorer in the 23-man squad, there is also a good chance that Michu could even make his debut for his country, with Del Bosque’s only other striking option being fellow Premier League forward Alvaro Negredo, of Manchester City.
Spain are currently top of Group I, ahead of France on goal difference. However, with a game in hand over Didier Deschamp’s side, wins at home to Belarus and Georgia will secure the reigning World Champions a place in Brazil.
Varane 'flattered' by Ancelotti praise
Raphael Varane has admitted he is flattered by Carlo Ancelotti’s recent recognition of the his abilities but remains well aware that he is not yet the finished article.
The 20-year-old Real Madrid defender made his comeback from a knee injury in the midweek Champions League victory over Copenhagen and kept his place in defence as los Blancos squeezed past Levante 3-2 on Saturday evening.
His return to the line up saw him draw praise from Ancelotti for the way in which he handled himself during the five month lay-off and even want as far as to suggest that the Frenchman is already amongst the top centre-backs in the game today.
“It’s flattering,” Varane said in an interview with Telefoot. “It gives me a desire to continue to move forward.
"I play in one of the biggest clubs in the world, along with great defenders, and competition is fierce. It allows me to evolve and continue to grow.”
Varane’s return to fitness has seen him rushed back into the France set-up too, with Didier Deschamps ushering the youngster back into the squad for les Blues’ final World Cup qualifier against Finland.
With only two caps to his name so far, the defender is aware that he doesn’t have a wealth of experience at international level, but he is still grateful for the level of faith being shown in him by his country.
“Les Bleus are a challenge for me and I want to stay," he explained. "The fact that Deschamps calls me back is a mark of trust.
“It makes me happy. To go back to the group, it gives me confidence and it is positive.”
Varane also fielded questions about the form of fellow France and Real Madrid man Karim Benzema, but was quick to quash any concerns over the striker’s current lack of form.
“We talk a lot. He is a hard worker," he stated. “I think he is well physically. Mentally, he is focused on his goals so I’m not worried about him.”
France take on Finland on Tuesday 15 October in their final Group I match, but need other results to go their way if they are to qualify automatically for the World Cup finals in Brazil next summer.
Raphael Varane has admitted he is flattered by Carlo Ancelotti’s recent recognition of the his abilities but remains well aware that he is not yet the finished article.
The 20-year-old Real Madrid defender made his comeback from a knee injury in the midweek Champions League victory over Copenhagen and kept his place in defence as los Blancos squeezed past Levante 3-2 on Saturday evening.
His return to the line up saw him draw praise from Ancelotti for the way in which he handled himself during the five month lay-off and even want as far as to suggest that the Frenchman is already amongst the top centre-backs in the game today.
“It’s flattering,” Varane said in an interview with Telefoot. “It gives me a desire to continue to move forward.
"I play in one of the biggest clubs in the world, along with great defenders, and competition is fierce. It allows me to evolve and continue to grow.”
Varane’s return to fitness has seen him rushed back into the France set-up too, with Didier Deschamps ushering the youngster back into the squad for les Blues’ final World Cup qualifier against Finland.
With only two caps to his name so far, the defender is aware that he doesn’t have a wealth of experience at international level, but he is still grateful for the level of faith being shown in him by his country.
“Les Bleus are a challenge for me and I want to stay," he explained. "The fact that Deschamps calls me back is a mark of trust.
“It makes me happy. To go back to the group, it gives me confidence and it is positive.”
Varane also fielded questions about the form of fellow France and Real Madrid man Karim Benzema, but was quick to quash any concerns over the striker’s current lack of form.
“We talk a lot. He is a hard worker," he stated. “I think he is well physically. Mentally, he is focused on his goals so I’m not worried about him.”
France take on Finland on Tuesday 15 October in their final Group I match, but need other results to go their way if they are to qualify automatically for the World Cup finals in Brazil next summer.
Wenger rues missed chances in West Brom draw
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted Sunday's 1-1 draw with West Brom represented a "fair" result but couldn't help but feel that his side should have taken maximum points.
The hosts took the lead at the end of the first half through Claudio Yacob before Jack Wilshere drew the Gunners level in the second half.
However, although Wenger admitted that a point was not a bad outcome against a strong Baggies side, the Frenchman was left ruing the chances missed by his side when the game was level.
"West Brom confirmed why they won at Manchester United because they have good players in every position and a huge squad," the 63-year-old coach told the press.
"If you asked whether it was a fair point over the 90 minutes, I would say yes. We were 1-0 down just before half-time and, straight after half-time, [Nicolas] Anelka has the [chance to make it] 2-0 and that would have made it difficult after that.
"I have some regrets because, when we came back to 1-1, in the last half hour we had the chances to score a second goal but we showed spirit to come back and give it all and to try to win - but them as well."
Wilshere had been criticised by his manager after he was pictured smoking outside a London nightclub, so Wenger was keen to praise the midfielder for scoring his first league goal for the club since November 2010.
"Yes, at least that is done now," the Arsenal boss replied when asked about the statistic. "He had a difficult first half where he was fouled but he has shown that he has character and kept going. It was good that he was rewarded.
"He was pushed over a lot. I don't think it was dirty but he was pushed over a lot and he didn't get the fouls. In the second half he gave some great balls and, overall, he had a very good second half.
"I think he learns very quickly and what is more interesting for England than for Arsenal is that he shows the right response on the pitch.
"I don't think he will ever be a 'goalscorer'. He's a player who can create chances and provide chances for others - that is important in our job. It's good that he knows that he can score."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted Sunday's 1-1 draw with West Brom represented a "fair" result but couldn't help but feel that his side should have taken maximum points.
The hosts took the lead at the end of the first half through Claudio Yacob before Jack Wilshere drew the Gunners level in the second half.
However, although Wenger admitted that a point was not a bad outcome against a strong Baggies side, the Frenchman was left ruing the chances missed by his side when the game was level.
"West Brom confirmed why they won at Manchester United because they have good players in every position and a huge squad," the 63-year-old coach told the press.
"If you asked whether it was a fair point over the 90 minutes, I would say yes. We were 1-0 down just before half-time and, straight after half-time, [Nicolas] Anelka has the [chance to make it] 2-0 and that would have made it difficult after that.
"I have some regrets because, when we came back to 1-1, in the last half hour we had the chances to score a second goal but we showed spirit to come back and give it all and to try to win - but them as well."
Wilshere had been criticised by his manager after he was pictured smoking outside a London nightclub, so Wenger was keen to praise the midfielder for scoring his first league goal for the club since November 2010.
"Yes, at least that is done now," the Arsenal boss replied when asked about the statistic. "He had a difficult first half where he was fouled but he has shown that he has character and kept going. It was good that he was rewarded.
"He was pushed over a lot. I don't think it was dirty but he was pushed over a lot and he didn't get the fouls. In the second half he gave some great balls and, overall, he had a very good second half.
"I think he learns very quickly and what is more interesting for England than for Arsenal is that he shows the right response on the pitch.
"I don't think he will ever be a 'goalscorer'. He's a player who can create chances and provide chances for others - that is important in our job. It's good that he knows that he can score."
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Ivanovic: Best yet to come from Willian at Chelsea
Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney admits that manager David Moyes is "under a bit of pressure" but feels that he and his fellow players are to blame.
Despite coming from behind to beat Sunderland on Saturday, the Red Devils are only ninth in the Premier League table after seven games.
But Rooney has urged his team-mates to use the comeback against the Black Cats as motivation in the future, and says the squad are still adapting to Moyes' style.
"Obviously the manager is under a bit of pressure," Rooney told reporters.
"We know as a team it's us who have let him down. We have to pull together for the manager and show the sort of fight we have done here and we'll be fine.
"It will be because it's a new manager with different styles and we have to adapt to them," he argued of the drop in results. "We need to do better for him than we have been."
Adnan Januzaj was the hero for United at the Stadium of Light. On his first start, the 18-year-old scored twice to turn the game around and the England international was thrilled to see the youngster excel.
"He's a great prospect," Rooney enthused. "He takes the ball, he runs at players and he's got great ability. It's great the manager has thrown him into the side, especially with what has happened in the last few games.
"There was big pressure on us but the manager has trusted him and he has repaid that. He's very confident - that's great to see.
"A lot of the young players who come through are a little bit timid and shy but he looks comfortable and he's confident in his own ability, which you need to be. It was a brave move to play him in the circumstances and we’re delighted it's paid off.
"There is a lot of pressure but he seems to thrive on it. We know the ability he has got but you never know how they are going to react when they are thrown into games.
"We need to help the younger players and, if we do that, they'll be moments where they come in and win us the game, as has happened here. The experienced lads need to help them emerge into a team."
Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney admits that manager David Moyes is "under a bit of pressure" but feels that he and his fellow players are to blame.
Despite coming from behind to beat Sunderland on Saturday, the Red Devils are only ninth in the Premier League table after seven games.
But Rooney has urged his team-mates to use the comeback against the Black Cats as motivation in the future, and says the squad are still adapting to Moyes' style.
"Obviously the manager is under a bit of pressure," Rooney told reporters.
"We know as a team it's us who have let him down. We have to pull together for the manager and show the sort of fight we have done here and we'll be fine.
"It will be because it's a new manager with different styles and we have to adapt to them," he argued of the drop in results. "We need to do better for him than we have been."
Adnan Januzaj was the hero for United at the Stadium of Light. On his first start, the 18-year-old scored twice to turn the game around and the England international was thrilled to see the youngster excel.
"He's a great prospect," Rooney enthused. "He takes the ball, he runs at players and he's got great ability. It's great the manager has thrown him into the side, especially with what has happened in the last few games.
"There was big pressure on us but the manager has trusted him and he has repaid that. He's very confident - that's great to see.
"A lot of the young players who come through are a little bit timid and shy but he looks comfortable and he's confident in his own ability, which you need to be. It was a brave move to play him in the circumstances and we’re delighted it's paid off.
"There is a lot of pressure but he seems to thrive on it. We know the ability he has got but you never know how they are going to react when they are thrown into games.
"We need to help the younger players and, if we do that, they'll be moments where they come in and win us the game, as has happened here. The experienced lads need to help them emerge into a team."
Rafael: Players need time to adapt to Moyes
Manchester United defender Rafael believes new manager David Moyes will do well once the players have adapted to his methods.
Following the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson over the summer, the former Everton boss has struggled in his first few games in charge, but the Brazilian feels that it was only natural that their would be a period of ajustment for everyone concerned.
"It's never easy," he told Omnisport. "Obviously it's completely different because we had Alex Ferguson for 27 years but I think we all must get used to it.
"David Moyes has his own rules but, of course, he is not going to change everything, especially because what was done before was proven to work well.
"Now he is introducing his touch but he is also keeping the basics."
After a summer which saw fierce debate over the future of Wayne Rooney, Rafael is not surprised to see the forward still at Old Trafford, where the full-back argues he is at home.
The full-back added: "There was too much talk about Rooney leaving. He was always silent about it. Now he is very relaxed.
"He belongs to Manchester United. He has been here for so long now, [for] almost a decade.
"The fans love him and I think he will stay here for a long time."
Manchester United defender Rafael believes new manager David Moyes will do well once the players have adapted to his methods.
Following the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson over the summer, the former Everton boss has struggled in his first few games in charge, but the Brazilian feels that it was only natural that their would be a period of ajustment for everyone concerned.
"It's never easy," he told Omnisport. "Obviously it's completely different because we had Alex Ferguson for 27 years but I think we all must get used to it.
"David Moyes has his own rules but, of course, he is not going to change everything, especially because what was done before was proven to work well.
"Now he is introducing his touch but he is also keeping the basics."
After a summer which saw fierce debate over the future of Wayne Rooney, Rafael is not surprised to see the forward still at Old Trafford, where the full-back argues he is at home.
The full-back added: "There was too much talk about Rooney leaving. He was always silent about it. Now he is very relaxed.
"He belongs to Manchester United. He has been here for so long now, [for] almost a decade.
"The fans love him and I think he will stay here for a long time."
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