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Espanyol 0-1 Real Madrid: Benzema gives los Blancos first-leg lead
Karim Benzema scored the only goal of the game to give Real Madrid a 1-0 win over Espanyol in the first-leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
France striker Benzema scored what proved to be the crucial goal after 25 minutes, but Carlo Ancelotti's men will be disappointed not to have secured a healthier advantage after spurning a number of excellent chances.Espanyol created the first clear-cut opportunity after 18 minutes as Portuguese attacker Pizzi blazed over the bar from close range.
That near-miss appeared to spark Madrid into life, and three minutes later Cristiano Ronaldo turned brilliantly on the edge of the area, only to see his low shot hit the post.
The visitors did take the lead shortly after, as Benzema found the back of the net with a diving header after Gareth Bale had flicked Alvaro Arbeloa's right-wing cross into his path.
The visitors could have pulled clear before the interval, but both Benzema and Bale were denied by strong saves from Espanyol keeper Kiko Casilla.Espanyol started the second half brightly and almost levelled after 54 minutes with a fine curling effort from forward Sergio Garcia.
However, los Blancos would have put the tie beyond doubt if not for the brilliance of Casilla, who raced off his line to thwart Angel Di Maria following a fine ball from Marcelo, before also preventing Arbeloa and Benzema from finding a second.
For all of the visitors' dominance, the visitors were grateful to goalkeeper Iker Casillas for preserving their lead.
The Spain international produced an excellent one-on-one save to keep out a strike from substitute Jhon Cordoba six minutes from the end, on a night when the 32-year-old broke his own record for minutes played without conceding a goal, which now stands at 592.
Madrid host the second leg at the Bernabeu next Tuesday.
Karim Benzema scored the only goal of the game to give Real Madrid a 1-0 win over Espanyol in the first-leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
France striker Benzema scored what proved to be the crucial goal after 25 minutes, but Carlo Ancelotti's men will be disappointed not to have secured a healthier advantage after spurning a number of excellent chances.Espanyol created the first clear-cut opportunity after 18 minutes as Portuguese attacker Pizzi blazed over the bar from close range.
That near-miss appeared to spark Madrid into life, and three minutes later Cristiano Ronaldo turned brilliantly on the edge of the area, only to see his low shot hit the post.
The visitors did take the lead shortly after, as Benzema found the back of the net with a diving header after Gareth Bale had flicked Alvaro Arbeloa's right-wing cross into his path.
The visitors could have pulled clear before the interval, but both Benzema and Bale were denied by strong saves from Espanyol keeper Kiko Casilla.Espanyol started the second half brightly and almost levelled after 54 minutes with a fine curling effort from forward Sergio Garcia.
However, los Blancos would have put the tie beyond doubt if not for the brilliance of Casilla, who raced off his line to thwart Angel Di Maria following a fine ball from Marcelo, before also preventing Arbeloa and Benzema from finding a second.
For all of the visitors' dominance, the visitors were grateful to goalkeeper Iker Casillas for preserving their lead.
The Spain international produced an excellent one-on-one save to keep out a strike from substitute Jhon Cordoba six minutes from the end, on a night when the 32-year-old broke his own record for minutes played without conceding a goal, which now stands at 592.
Madrid host the second leg at the Bernabeu next Tuesday.
Roma 1-0 Juventus: Gervinho stuns Bianconeri
Gervinho scored the only goal of the game as Roma moved into the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia with a 1-0 win over Juventus.
The capital club, who were beaten 3-0 by Juve in Serie A earlier this month, dictated play for much of a scrappy encounter and were rewarded with a victory that keeps alive their hopes of avenging a defeat to Lazio in last year's final.
Gervinho was the hero on the night, as he struck 11 minutes from time with a superb backheeled volley to condemn the Bianconeri to a first domestic loss since a 4-2 defeat to Fiorentina on October 20.Roma were fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men after 14 minutes when the referee elected only to caution last defender Mehdi Benatia for a foul on Sebastian Giovinco.
The hosts enjoyed the better of the first half without creating any real goalscoring opportunities, with veteran playmaker Francesco Totti going closest just after the half-hour mark as he sent a left-footed volley wide.
Juve looked to have taken the lead a minute into the second half when Federico Peluso headed in at the far post, only for the linesman to rule that the ball had crossed the byline and gone out of play in the build-up.Alessandro Florenzi then went close with a header for Rudi Garcia's men, before the 75th minute introduction of midfielder Miralem Pjanic proved decisive.
The Bosnia-Herzegovina international needed just four minutes to make an impact, the former Lyon man surging into the penalty area before laying the ball off for Kevin Strootman, whose near post cross was turned home in stunning fashion by Gervinho.
Juve failed to mount any sort of revival and although Pjanic wasted a chance to add a second in injury-time, Roma held on to progress to the semi-finals.
Gervinho scored the only goal of the game as Roma moved into the semi-finals of the Coppa Italia with a 1-0 win over Juventus.
The capital club, who were beaten 3-0 by Juve in Serie A earlier this month, dictated play for much of a scrappy encounter and were rewarded with a victory that keeps alive their hopes of avenging a defeat to Lazio in last year's final.
Gervinho was the hero on the night, as he struck 11 minutes from time with a superb backheeled volley to condemn the Bianconeri to a first domestic loss since a 4-2 defeat to Fiorentina on October 20.Roma were fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men after 14 minutes when the referee elected only to caution last defender Mehdi Benatia for a foul on Sebastian Giovinco.
The hosts enjoyed the better of the first half without creating any real goalscoring opportunities, with veteran playmaker Francesco Totti going closest just after the half-hour mark as he sent a left-footed volley wide.
Juve looked to have taken the lead a minute into the second half when Federico Peluso headed in at the far post, only for the linesman to rule that the ball had crossed the byline and gone out of play in the build-up.Alessandro Florenzi then went close with a header for Rudi Garcia's men, before the 75th minute introduction of midfielder Miralem Pjanic proved decisive.
The Bosnia-Herzegovina international needed just four minutes to make an impact, the former Lyon man surging into the penalty area before laying the ball off for Kevin Strootman, whose near post cross was turned home in stunning fashion by Gervinho.
Juve failed to mount any sort of revival and although Pjanic wasted a chance to add a second in injury-time, Roma held on to progress to the semi-finals.
West Ham 0-3 Manchester City (agg 0-9): Negredo & Aguero seal Wembley spot in style
Manchester City cruised into the final of the Capital One Cup by routing West Ham for the second time in a week to complete a 9-0 aggregate victory.
Ruthless City were already all-but assured of a place in the final against either arch-rivals Manchester United or Sunderland on March 2 after thrashing Sam Allardyce's side 6-0 in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium.
And the Premier League title contenders heaped more misery on the struggling London club, Negredo striking a goal in each half at Upton Park to take his tally to 23 goals for the season as Manuel Pellegrini's claimed the most emphatic semi-final victory in the Capital One Cup.
The in-form Spain striker, who scored a hat-trick in the first leg, now boasts nine goals in his last six games and his strike partner Sergio Aguero scored his 22nd goal of the campaign in the first half as West Ham were made to pay for more abysmal defending.
West Ham have now lost five of their last six games in all competitions, while City can look forward to their first appearance in a League Cup final since 1976.
In front of a crowd of only 14,390, Aguero made his first start for over a month as Manuel Pellegrini made eight changes to the City side that beat Cardiff City on Saturday.
Andy Carroll was in the West Ham starting line-up for the first time this season and Kevin Nolan returned from suspension as Sam Allardyce also rung the changes.
West Ham were made to pay for some terrible defending in the first leg and had seemingly failed to learn their lesson as City took the lead all too easily after just two minutes.
Gael Clichy was afforded too much time and space to deliver a cross from the left and Negredo headed in after being left unmarked by James Tomkins.
The West Ham faithful voiced their disapproval and worse was to follow 23 minutes in, when Aguero caused panic in the West Ham defence and coolly slotted home with his left foot after teenager Marcos Lopes had been allowed to advance from midfield.
Carroll was replaced by Carlton Cole at the break after a frustrating first half, while referee Chris Foy waved play on three minutes after the break when Ravel Morrison tumbled in the penalty area.
Cole forced a save out of Costel Pantilimon just five minutes after coming on when he escaped two defenders and was then denied by the City goalkeeper at his near post.
But it appeared to be only a matter of time before the visitors increased their lead and Negredo cashed in on West Ham's defensive frailties after 59 minutes, bursting into the box unchallenged then dinking the ball over Jussi Jaaskelainen from a tight angle with his left foot.
Stevan Jovetic made his first appearance since October when he replaced Aguero after 64 minutes.
West Ham were unable to cope with City's attacking threat and Jesus Navas should have added a fourth goal 15 minutes from time, but the winger fired high over the crossbar.
The hosts' misery was compounded late on when Mohamed Diame was taken off on a stretcher having been injured.
Manchester City cruised into the final of the Capital One Cup by routing West Ham for the second time in a week to complete a 9-0 aggregate victory.
Ruthless City were already all-but assured of a place in the final against either arch-rivals Manchester United or Sunderland on March 2 after thrashing Sam Allardyce's side 6-0 in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium.
And the Premier League title contenders heaped more misery on the struggling London club, Negredo striking a goal in each half at Upton Park to take his tally to 23 goals for the season as Manuel Pellegrini's claimed the most emphatic semi-final victory in the Capital One Cup.
The in-form Spain striker, who scored a hat-trick in the first leg, now boasts nine goals in his last six games and his strike partner Sergio Aguero scored his 22nd goal of the campaign in the first half as West Ham were made to pay for more abysmal defending.
West Ham have now lost five of their last six games in all competitions, while City can look forward to their first appearance in a League Cup final since 1976.
In front of a crowd of only 14,390, Aguero made his first start for over a month as Manuel Pellegrini made eight changes to the City side that beat Cardiff City on Saturday.
Andy Carroll was in the West Ham starting line-up for the first time this season and Kevin Nolan returned from suspension as Sam Allardyce also rung the changes.
West Ham were made to pay for some terrible defending in the first leg and had seemingly failed to learn their lesson as City took the lead all too easily after just two minutes.
Gael Clichy was afforded too much time and space to deliver a cross from the left and Negredo headed in after being left unmarked by James Tomkins.
The West Ham faithful voiced their disapproval and worse was to follow 23 minutes in, when Aguero caused panic in the West Ham defence and coolly slotted home with his left foot after teenager Marcos Lopes had been allowed to advance from midfield.
Carroll was replaced by Carlton Cole at the break after a frustrating first half, while referee Chris Foy waved play on three minutes after the break when Ravel Morrison tumbled in the penalty area.
Cole forced a save out of Costel Pantilimon just five minutes after coming on when he escaped two defenders and was then denied by the City goalkeeper at his near post.
But it appeared to be only a matter of time before the visitors increased their lead and Negredo cashed in on West Ham's defensive frailties after 59 minutes, bursting into the box unchallenged then dinking the ball over Jussi Jaaskelainen from a tight angle with his left foot.
Stevan Jovetic made his first appearance since October when he replaced Aguero after 64 minutes.
West Ham were unable to cope with City's attacking threat and Jesus Navas should have added a fourth goal 15 minutes from time, but the winger fired high over the crossbar.
The hosts' misery was compounded late on when Mohamed Diame was taken off on a stretcher having been injured.
Everton distance themselves from Lukaku's Anelka comments
Everton have distanced themselves from comments made by Romelu Lukaku defending Nicolas Anelka over his controversial 'quenelle' gesture.
Lukaku, on loan at Goodison Park from Chelsea, reportedly described the issue, which resulted in West Brom forward Anelka being charged by the Football Association on Tuesday, as "not such a big deal" in a video briefly posted on Everton's official website.
The video was later removed and Everton have clarified that they do not share the striker's views, with director of communications Alan Myers telling the BBC that was "not the opinion held by the football club".
Anelka was embroiled in controversy following his decision to make the 'quenelle' salute, which is said to carry anti-Semitic connotations in his native France, after scoring in West Brom's 3-3 draw at West Ham last month.
He defended the gesture by saying it was merely a dedication to his friend and comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala, but the incident drew widespread criticism.
Lukaku reportedly said: "I don't think he [Anelka] should be banned; he was just supporting a comedian in France. We don't have to make such a big deal about it."
Myers added: "We moved quickly to remove any interview that may have been offensive to anyone."The last thing we want to do is cause offence to anyone."
Anelka is facing a minimum ban of five matches following the FA's decision to charge him.
Everton have distanced themselves from comments made by Romelu Lukaku defending Nicolas Anelka over his controversial 'quenelle' gesture.
Lukaku, on loan at Goodison Park from Chelsea, reportedly described the issue, which resulted in West Brom forward Anelka being charged by the Football Association on Tuesday, as "not such a big deal" in a video briefly posted on Everton's official website.
The video was later removed and Everton have clarified that they do not share the striker's views, with director of communications Alan Myers telling the BBC that was "not the opinion held by the football club".
Anelka was embroiled in controversy following his decision to make the 'quenelle' salute, which is said to carry anti-Semitic connotations in his native France, after scoring in West Brom's 3-3 draw at West Ham last month.
He defended the gesture by saying it was merely a dedication to his friend and comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala, but the incident drew widespread criticism.
Lukaku reportedly said: "I don't think he [Anelka] should be banned; he was just supporting a comedian in France. We don't have to make such a big deal about it."
Myers added: "We moved quickly to remove any interview that may have been offensive to anyone."The last thing we want to do is cause offence to anyone."
Anelka is facing a minimum ban of five matches following the FA's decision to charge him.
Tottenham's Capoue asking price absurd - agent
Etienne Capoue's proposed move to Napoli is at risk because of Tottenham's "absurd" asking price, according to the player's agent.
Capoue has been linked with a move to Italy just six months after arriving at White Hart Lane, having fallen behind Mousa Dembele, Paulinho, Lewis Holtby and youngster Nabil Bentaleb in the midfield pecking order.
But Goal reported on Thursday that Spurs are demanding €12 million for the powerful midfielder, and the player's representative Martha Fischer believes this price is unreasonable.
“The problem is not the player or Napoli –Tottenham just want a lot of money," Fischer told Radio Crc.
“What they’re asking for is absurd. But we are only on January 21 and there is still hope."
Capoue joined Spurs from Toulouse for £9m in the summer and has made 13 appearances in all competitions this season.
Etienne Capoue's proposed move to Napoli is at risk because of Tottenham's "absurd" asking price, according to the player's agent.
Capoue has been linked with a move to Italy just six months after arriving at White Hart Lane, having fallen behind Mousa Dembele, Paulinho, Lewis Holtby and youngster Nabil Bentaleb in the midfield pecking order.
But Goal reported on Thursday that Spurs are demanding €12 million for the powerful midfielder, and the player's representative Martha Fischer believes this price is unreasonable.
“The problem is not the player or Napoli –Tottenham just want a lot of money," Fischer told Radio Crc.
“What they’re asking for is absurd. But we are only on January 21 and there is still hope."
Capoue joined Spurs from Toulouse for £9m in the summer and has made 13 appearances in all competitions this season.
Van Persie & Fellaini return to Manchester United training
Manchester United duo Robin van Persie and Marouane Fellaini returned to first-team training on Tuesday as they continue their much-anticipated return from injury, Goal can reveal.
Both players trained with the rest of the first-team squad for all but the final part of Tuesday's session at the club's Carrington training base as they near a return to action.
Van Persie has been sidelined for over a month with a thigh injury, with the Netherlands international last featuring for United in the Champions League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on December 10.
The 30-year-old worked with PSV Eindhoven fitness coach Arno Philips in a bid to step-up his recovery, with Goal exclusively revealing Van Persie returned to Manchester on January 9 after completing the two weeks of specialist fitness work in Holland.
Former Everton midfielder Fellaini, meanwhile, underwent wrist surgery towards the end of December and, despite initial fears that he could be out of action for six weeks, has recovered ahead of schedule.
It is unlikely that Van Persie or Fellaini, who trained without a cast on his wrist on Tuesday, will be available for Wednesday's Capital One Cup semi-final second leg, with there being only an outside chance that they will be named on the substitutes' bench.
Sunderland hold a 2-1 lead from the first leg ahead of the meeting at Old Trafford although as reported by Goal earlier on Monday, David Moyes is set to welcome back Wayne Rooney as United look to overturn the deficit and book a Wembley date with Manchester City.
Ancelotti: Casillas and Lopez both first choice
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti says Iker Casillas and Diego Lopez are both first choice after watching his side beat Espanyol 1-0 in the first-leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Karim Benzema scored the only goal of the game, with the result seeing Casillas break his own record for the number of minutes clocked up since he last conceded a goal - a figure which now stands at 592.
The World Cup winner was overlooked by Jose Mourinho in the second half of last season and replaced by Lopez, but Ancelotti has opted to rotate the two goalkeepers this term, with Casillas featuring regularly in cup games.
Reports have suggested the 32-year-old could look to leave the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season in search of the No.1 jersey elsewhere, but the Italian coach insists he is equally first choice.
"I have to congratulate him because he is playing brilliantly at the moment. He deserves his record and he is really helping the team," he said.
"He made a fantastic save [to deny Córdoba]. In every game, he is playing well. At the moment, the two goalkeepers are playing alternate matches and so Iker is as much our first choice as Diego López."
Gareth Bale endured a frustrating evening in Barcelona - but still managed to force a fine save out of Espanyol keeper Kika with a dipping free-kick - and Ancelotti pointed to the Welshman's work ethic throughout.
"I thought he had a decent game. Maybe he wasn’t as sharp as he normally is but he worked tirelessly in defence and in attack. The whole team played exceptionally well for about an hour. As far as his position is concerned, he has no problem playing down the right, he has done many times."
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti says Iker Casillas and Diego Lopez are both first choice after watching his side beat Espanyol 1-0 in the first-leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Karim Benzema scored the only goal of the game, with the result seeing Casillas break his own record for the number of minutes clocked up since he last conceded a goal - a figure which now stands at 592.
The World Cup winner was overlooked by Jose Mourinho in the second half of last season and replaced by Lopez, but Ancelotti has opted to rotate the two goalkeepers this term, with Casillas featuring regularly in cup games.
Reports have suggested the 32-year-old could look to leave the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season in search of the No.1 jersey elsewhere, but the Italian coach insists he is equally first choice.
"I have to congratulate him because he is playing brilliantly at the moment. He deserves his record and he is really helping the team," he said.
"He made a fantastic save [to deny Córdoba]. In every game, he is playing well. At the moment, the two goalkeepers are playing alternate matches and so Iker is as much our first choice as Diego López."
Gareth Bale endured a frustrating evening in Barcelona - but still managed to force a fine save out of Espanyol keeper Kika with a dipping free-kick - and Ancelotti pointed to the Welshman's work ethic throughout.
"I thought he had a decent game. Maybe he wasn’t as sharp as he normally is but he worked tirelessly in defence and in attack. The whole team played exceptionally well for about an hour. As far as his position is concerned, he has no problem playing down the right, he has done many times."
Manchester United prepare Mata bid as Chelsea open door to £40m exit
Manchester United are readying a formal bid to sign Juan Mata this month, with Chelsea prepared to sell the playmaker if they receive an offer worth more than £40 million.
Initial talks have been held between the two clubs over a deal for the Spaniard as United manager David Moyes looks to strengthen his midfield and boost his side’s chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
United are yet to make an official bid, but that is expected to change this week as they sense the opportunity to land Mata, who has found opportunities limited this season and started just 11 of Chelsea’s 22 Premier League matches.
Chelsea want around £45m for the Spain international, who cost £23.5m when he joined from Valencia in 2011, but would have to seriously consider any bid in the region of £40m for a player on the fringes of Jose Mourinho’s team.
Mata is desperate for more playing opportunities in a World Cup year and United are believed to have been given indications that he would be interested in a move to Old Trafford, where he could expect a significant increase on his £70,000-a-week salary.
The 25-year-old has been named Chelsea’s Player of the Year in the last two seasons but Mourinho suggested earlier this month that the ‘door is open’ should Mata seek a transfer away from Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.
Mata is under contract until 2016 and Chelsea would prefer to evaluate his situation at the end of the season and sell him abroad, with Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid among the player’s admirers.
But with United no longer considered a direct rival - the champions are currently seventh in the Premier League table, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal - Chelsea are prepared to listen to big offers for the attacking midfielder this month.
It would represent a major coup for Moyes, who is under significant pressure and has yet to bolster his fragile squad in the winter window, despite having around £150m available to spend on new recruits.
In the background, there is also the issue of Chelsea’s long-standing interest in Wayne Rooney, for whom they made two bids last summer.
Rooney has so far declined to open talks with United officials over a new contract and the club fear the striker will again look to force a move at the end of the season, when he will have just one year remaining on his contract.
A deal for Mata could smooth relations between the clubs ahead of any renewed attempt, either in January or the summer, to bring Rooney to Stamford Bridge.
Mourinho has cited Mata’s lack of defensive work as the main reason behind the Spain international’s frequent omission, with Oscar preferred in the No.10 role at Stamford Bridge.
Barcelona don't need to buy, says Martino
Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino says he has no intention of making any signings in the January transfer window.
Reports have suggested the club could make several additions to their squad in light of recent injuries to Victor Valdes and Lionel Messi, though the pair have now returned to full fitness.
But Martino is happy with the squad at his disposal and felt they displayed their quality prior to the winter break, as he prepares his side to face Levante in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Wednesday.
He told reporters: "We have a very strong team and we are confident that we will perform well when we have to change players around.
"There was nothing that made me feel any different when Messi and Valdes were injured. We have answers when players are injured in our squad."
The Blaugrana were held by Levante in La Liga over the weekend, with Messi playing the full 90 minutes, and Martino is confident his star man is back to his best, despite his failure to find the back of the net on Sunday.
"He has completed the last two games, has felt well and now will continue to play as he always did. You do not have to think of him as a player that is coming back from injury because he has now completed his recovery."
Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino says he has no intention of making any signings in the January transfer window.
Reports have suggested the club could make several additions to their squad in light of recent injuries to Victor Valdes and Lionel Messi, though the pair have now returned to full fitness.
But Martino is happy with the squad at his disposal and felt they displayed their quality prior to the winter break, as he prepares his side to face Levante in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Wednesday.
He told reporters: "We have a very strong team and we are confident that we will perform well when we have to change players around.
"There was nothing that made me feel any different when Messi and Valdes were injured. We have answers when players are injured in our squad."
The Blaugrana were held by Levante in La Liga over the weekend, with Messi playing the full 90 minutes, and Martino is confident his star man is back to his best, despite his failure to find the back of the net on Sunday.
"He has completed the last two games, has felt well and now will continue to play as he always did. You do not have to think of him as a player that is coming back from injury because he has now completed his recovery."
Roma wanted it more - Totti
Francesco Totti says Roma's stronger desire was key to their dramatic 1-0 win over Juventus in the Coppa Italia on Tuesday.
The capital club sealed a berth in the semi-finals thanks to a late goal from Gervinho, having had the better of the Stadio Olimpico encounter from the off.
Totti was delighted to banish the demons of the Giallorossi's 3-0 defeat at the hands of Antonio Conte's side at the beginning of the month.
"It was a victory we wanted at all costs. We changed from the defeat in Turin and tonight proved we are at the same level as a great Juve," he told Rai Sport.
"I don’t see much of a distance between us, as eight points can be a lot or a little. We are having a great campaign, they are going beyond the limits.
"Obviously if we continue the way we did in the first half of the season, then we’d be close to Juve. If Juventus continue like this, then it’s tough.
"This was a one-off match to reach the semi-final and we wanted it at all costs."
Roma will play either Lazio or Roma in the last four.
Francesco Totti says Roma's stronger desire was key to their dramatic 1-0 win over Juventus in the Coppa Italia on Tuesday.
The capital club sealed a berth in the semi-finals thanks to a late goal from Gervinho, having had the better of the Stadio Olimpico encounter from the off.
Totti was delighted to banish the demons of the Giallorossi's 3-0 defeat at the hands of Antonio Conte's side at the beginning of the month.
"It was a victory we wanted at all costs. We changed from the defeat in Turin and tonight proved we are at the same level as a great Juve," he told Rai Sport.
"I don’t see much of a distance between us, as eight points can be a lot or a little. We are having a great campaign, they are going beyond the limits.
"Obviously if we continue the way we did in the first half of the season, then we’d be close to Juve. If Juventus continue like this, then it’s tough.
"This was a one-off match to reach the semi-final and we wanted it at all costs."
Roma will play either Lazio or Roma in the last four.
Low: Khedira on track to make World Cup squad
Germany national coach Joachim Low is quietly confident that injured midfielder Sami Khedira can make the squad for World Cup 2014.
The Real Madrid star was sidelined after he tore a knee ligament in die Mannschaft's 1-1 draw with Italy in November.
However, according to Low, the 26-year-old’s rehabilitation process is going to plan, meaning he is on track to be fit for the Fifa tournament in Brazil this summer.
"At the moment, Khedira is in a very good condition," the trainer told Reuters. "The knee is completely symptom-free, he is very much on schedule with his rehabilitation."
There is also good news regarding Fiorentina striker Mario Gomez, Bayern Munich centre-midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and Borussia Dortmund man Ilkay Gundogan, with all three set to return in the near future.
"Schweinsteiger has minor injuries, but everything is in order with the ankle injury. He has now increased his rehab and will soon be able to train with the team again.
"I have a very good feeling about these three players."
Germany, among the pre-tournament favourites with the World Cup on the horizon, have been drawn in a tough group alongside Ghana, Portugal and United States.
Germany national coach Joachim Low is quietly confident that injured midfielder Sami Khedira can make the squad for World Cup 2014.
The Real Madrid star was sidelined after he tore a knee ligament in die Mannschaft's 1-1 draw with Italy in November.
However, according to Low, the 26-year-old’s rehabilitation process is going to plan, meaning he is on track to be fit for the Fifa tournament in Brazil this summer.
"At the moment, Khedira is in a very good condition," the trainer told Reuters. "The knee is completely symptom-free, he is very much on schedule with his rehabilitation."
There is also good news regarding Fiorentina striker Mario Gomez, Bayern Munich centre-midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and Borussia Dortmund man Ilkay Gundogan, with all three set to return in the near future.
"Schweinsteiger has minor injuries, but everything is in order with the ankle injury. He has now increased his rehab and will soon be able to train with the team again.
"I have a very good feeling about these three players."
Germany, among the pre-tournament favourites with the World Cup on the horizon, have been drawn in a tough group alongside Ghana, Portugal and United States.
I'm a bad loser, admits Ronaldo
Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo has conceded that he is a bad loser and often makes mistakes after being defeated on the pitch.
The Ballon d’Or winner admits saying he was booed by opposition fans because he was "young, rich and handsome" in one of his most infamous remarks was not the wisest move he has made in his career.
But Ronaldo, speaking in the traditional Ballon d'Or winners' interview with France Football, says he is only human and any mistakes he does make are purely down to a burning desire to improve and a hatred of losing matches
The Real Madrid attacker said: "One day I told some people that they were jealous of me because I was young, handsome and rich - that was a mistake.
"It was after a game when I was very angry because I hadn’t scored. I am very competitive and I hate losing. There is no doubt that I have expressed myself badly by saying certain things after losing a match.
"I always want to be the best, both with my club and the national team. That is why there are sometimes misunderstandings. With age, you learn from your mistakes.
"I am not perfect. I am human and made of flesh and bones like everyone else. I laugh, I cry and I have my problems but people don’t always understand me.
"The way I am has evolved, even if my personality has not changed much. I always want to improve and I put pressure on myself in that respect. It was like that at Manchester United and it is also like that in Madrid."
Tears of Joy | Ronaldo struggled to hold back his emotions after being awarded the Ballon d'Or
Ronaldo went on to discuss the difficulties he has in living a regular life away from football and also talked about the abuse he receives from away supporters in Spain.
He continued: "I notice the hostility. Above all I notice in matches away from home. The way they receive me is not very pleasant. They insult me and they say things that I don’t like, but I am used to it by now.
"In recent times it has improved a bit. Before, they spoke about my mother and now just about me. Now they shout things like ‘Cristiano, Balon de Plastico!’
"It is not easy for me to lead a normal life. When I finish my career I hope everything is calmer and that I can enjoy myself.
"I am not forbidden from going anywhere but imagine going to a shopping centre with my son and my girlfriend and stopping every five metres to sign an autograph or for a photograph.
"I try to avoid public places and go to quieter places, like restaurants with a private table. I do not go to big hotels either. I go to more discreet places.
"I will try to enjoy myself later on in life, when there is another Cristiano in my place."
Ronaldo’s recent Ballon d’Or victory was the second of his career, ending a run of four successive triumphs from Barcelona rival Lionel Messi.
Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo has conceded that he is a bad loser and often makes mistakes after being defeated on the pitch.
The Ballon d’Or winner admits saying he was booed by opposition fans because he was "young, rich and handsome" in one of his most infamous remarks was not the wisest move he has made in his career.
But Ronaldo, speaking in the traditional Ballon d'Or winners' interview with France Football, says he is only human and any mistakes he does make are purely down to a burning desire to improve and a hatred of losing matches
The Real Madrid attacker said: "One day I told some people that they were jealous of me because I was young, handsome and rich - that was a mistake.
"It was after a game when I was very angry because I hadn’t scored. I am very competitive and I hate losing. There is no doubt that I have expressed myself badly by saying certain things after losing a match.
"I always want to be the best, both with my club and the national team. That is why there are sometimes misunderstandings. With age, you learn from your mistakes.
"I am not perfect. I am human and made of flesh and bones like everyone else. I laugh, I cry and I have my problems but people don’t always understand me.
"The way I am has evolved, even if my personality has not changed much. I always want to improve and I put pressure on myself in that respect. It was like that at Manchester United and it is also like that in Madrid."
Tears of Joy | Ronaldo struggled to hold back his emotions after being awarded the Ballon d'Or
Ronaldo went on to discuss the difficulties he has in living a regular life away from football and also talked about the abuse he receives from away supporters in Spain.
He continued: "I notice the hostility. Above all I notice in matches away from home. The way they receive me is not very pleasant. They insult me and they say things that I don’t like, but I am used to it by now.
"In recent times it has improved a bit. Before, they spoke about my mother and now just about me. Now they shout things like ‘Cristiano, Balon de Plastico!’
"It is not easy for me to lead a normal life. When I finish my career I hope everything is calmer and that I can enjoy myself.
"I am not forbidden from going anywhere but imagine going to a shopping centre with my son and my girlfriend and stopping every five metres to sign an autograph or for a photograph.
"I try to avoid public places and go to quieter places, like restaurants with a private table. I do not go to big hotels either. I go to more discreet places.
"I will try to enjoy myself later on in life, when there is another Cristiano in my place."
Ronaldo’s recent Ballon d’Or victory was the second of his career, ending a run of four successive triumphs from Barcelona rival Lionel Messi.
Galliani: Matri will return to Milan
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has dismissed speculation linking Alessandro Matri with a permanent switch to Fiorentina after his superb debut on Sunday.
Despite finding the net just once in 15 Serie A matches for AC Milan, Matri, who recently joined Fiorentina on a loan deal, scored a double against Catania for the Florence-based club.
However, Galliani is adamant that the player will return to San Siro next season and is not looking for a permanent move to the Viola.
"Everyone knew that he would go there and score," Galliani told Sky Sport. "He's a great finisher and he has always scored goals, sometimes it's just a matter of form.
“He is still a Milan player, he’s only there on a short-term loan."
Meanwhile, Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Montella says Matri is just the player they needed following his performance weekend win over the Serie A strugglers.
"Matri is just the kind of player we were looking for in the market," Montella told reporters..
"He is a great player who can widen our offensive unit and play with both Giuseppe Rossi and Mario Gomez."Matri joined the Rossoneri last summer after falling down the pecking at Juventus in 2012-13, with the added arrivals of Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez ensuring he would play even more infrequently.
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has dismissed speculation linking Alessandro Matri with a permanent switch to Fiorentina after his superb debut on Sunday.
Despite finding the net just once in 15 Serie A matches for AC Milan, Matri, who recently joined Fiorentina on a loan deal, scored a double against Catania for the Florence-based club.
However, Galliani is adamant that the player will return to San Siro next season and is not looking for a permanent move to the Viola.
"Everyone knew that he would go there and score," Galliani told Sky Sport. "He's a great finisher and he has always scored goals, sometimes it's just a matter of form.
“He is still a Milan player, he’s only there on a short-term loan."
Meanwhile, Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Montella says Matri is just the player they needed following his performance weekend win over the Serie A strugglers.
"Matri is just the kind of player we were looking for in the market," Montella told reporters..
"He is a great player who can widen our offensive unit and play with both Giuseppe Rossi and Mario Gomez."Matri joined the Rossoneri last summer after falling down the pecking at Juventus in 2012-13, with the added arrivals of Fernando Llorente and Carlos Tevez ensuring he would play even more infrequently.
Vidic red card appeal rejected
Nemanja Vidic's three-match ban for his sending off against Chelsea will be upheld after his appeal was rejected.
The 32-year-old was given a straight red card for his tackle on Eden Hazard during Manchester United's 3-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
United manager David Moyes stated after the match that he did not think Vidic should have been dismissed for his challenge on the Chelsea midfielder.
"Vidic's for me is not a red card, it was a yellow card," said the Scot.
Vidic will now miss Wednesday's Capital One Cup semi-final second leg against Sunderland, as well as Premier League fixtures against Cardiff City and Stoke City.
The Serb will next be available for selection on February 9 as United host Fulham at Old Trafford.
Defeat for David Moyes' side on Sunday has left the Premier League champions seventh in the table, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal and six points adrift of the Champions League places.
Nemanja Vidic's three-match ban for his sending off against Chelsea will be upheld after his appeal was rejected.
The 32-year-old was given a straight red card for his tackle on Eden Hazard during Manchester United's 3-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
United manager David Moyes stated after the match that he did not think Vidic should have been dismissed for his challenge on the Chelsea midfielder.
"Vidic's for me is not a red card, it was a yellow card," said the Scot.
Vidic will now miss Wednesday's Capital One Cup semi-final second leg against Sunderland, as well as Premier League fixtures against Cardiff City and Stoke City.
The Serb will next be available for selection on February 9 as United host Fulham at Old Trafford.
Defeat for David Moyes' side on Sunday has left the Premier League champions seventh in the table, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal and six points adrift of the Champions League places.
Vidic ge Red Card 1kata excuse 1kak dennna baha kohomatath
Bad tackle 1kak
thawa podden Rafa ta wenneth okama thamai
Oken une ape Defence 1ka thawath weak wenawa Vidic nathi nisa
Bad tackle 1kakthawa podden Rafa ta wenneth okama thamaiOken une ape Defence 1ka thawath weak wenawa Vidic nathi nisa
Messi: I'm going to have a great 2014
Lionel Messi believes he can put his fitness woes of 2013 behind him to have a phenomenal year with Barcelona and Argentina.
The 26-year-old has scored four goals in his opening four games of 2014 having returned from a spell out on the sidelines, though lost his Ballon d'Or crown to Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite losing the tag of best player on the planet, the Blaugrana attacker believes he can bounce back with top performances in 2013-14 and, in the summer, at the World Cup with the Albiceleste.
"I'm very happy," Messi told Perform. "I have plenty of desire to come back and play football after such a long time out.
"I'm lucky because step by step I'm starting to feel better, with a lot of vision to have a great year - not just with Barcelona but also with Argentina.
"Every year I start with the same mentality to have a good year. To keep growing and improving, to always be at the same level.
"Before the World Cup we have a lot of important things with Barcelona: we have the Champions League, La Liga and the Copa del Rey and that is not the only motivation for me, but [also] for all of us to keep growing."
Messi could return to action on Wednesday when Barca travel to Levante for the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Lionel Messi believes he can put his fitness woes of 2013 behind him to have a phenomenal year with Barcelona and Argentina.
The 26-year-old has scored four goals in his opening four games of 2014 having returned from a spell out on the sidelines, though lost his Ballon d'Or crown to Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite losing the tag of best player on the planet, the Blaugrana attacker believes he can bounce back with top performances in 2013-14 and, in the summer, at the World Cup with the Albiceleste.
"I'm very happy," Messi told Perform. "I have plenty of desire to come back and play football after such a long time out.
"I'm lucky because step by step I'm starting to feel better, with a lot of vision to have a great year - not just with Barcelona but also with Argentina.
"Every year I start with the same mentality to have a good year. To keep growing and improving, to always be at the same level.
"Before the World Cup we have a lot of important things with Barcelona: we have the Champions League, La Liga and the Copa del Rey and that is not the only motivation for me, but [also] for all of us to keep growing."
Messi could return to action on Wednesday when Barca travel to Levante for the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Coates wants to leave Liverpool for Nacional
Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates has revealed he is keen to leave Anfield for a return to South America with Nacional.
The 23-year-old is currently sidelined after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in a friendly for Uruguay against Japan in August.
Coates has been linked with a loan move back to his former side and says he is keen to return to his homeland and is hopeful of securing a transfer.
"It would be beautiful to join Nacional and complete my recovery in Uruguay with my family and friends," the centre-back told Radio El Espectador 810.
"The negotiations can be hard sometimes, and we have to wait a bit."
The Uruguay international moved to Anfield from Nacional in 2011 but has made just 24 appearances for the club during his time on Merseyside.
Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates has revealed he is keen to leave Anfield for a return to South America with Nacional.
The 23-year-old is currently sidelined after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in a friendly for Uruguay against Japan in August.
Coates has been linked with a loan move back to his former side and says he is keen to return to his homeland and is hopeful of securing a transfer.
"It would be beautiful to join Nacional and complete my recovery in Uruguay with my family and friends," the centre-back told Radio El Espectador 810.
"The negotiations can be hard sometimes, and we have to wait a bit."
The Uruguay international moved to Anfield from Nacional in 2011 but has made just 24 appearances for the club during his time on Merseyside.
Man City track Sevilla star Moreno
Manchester City are tracking highly-rated Sevilla left-back Alberto Moreno.
The 21-year-old, who has two caps for Spain, is being considered as a long-term replacement for Gael Clichy at the Etihad Stadium.
City have sent scouting delegations to a handful of Sevilla games towards the end of last year and over the past fortnight, with sporting director Txiki Begiristain and manager Manuel Pellegrini both big fans of the full-back.
Moreno has been heavily linked to Napoli in recent weeks, with Sevilla said to have turned down an offer from the Italian outfit on Monday as they want to keep hold of the youngster until at least the end of the season. Real Madrid and Chelsea are also thought to be keeping tabs on the defender.
However City, who have a strong relationship with Sevilla following the signings of Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo this summer, are confident over a move should they choose to pursue Moreno.
The Andalusian outfit value Moreno, who is close to both Negredo and Navas having come through Sevilla's youth ranks, at between €20-25 million.
City have been linked with a move for Southampton youngster Luke Shaw, but Goal understands that Chelsea are leading the race for the teenager.
Southampton have slapped a €30m price tag on the Saints prodigy after the Blues made an enquiry for him earlier in January.
Manchester City are tracking highly-rated Sevilla left-back Alberto Moreno.
The 21-year-old, who has two caps for Spain, is being considered as a long-term replacement for Gael Clichy at the Etihad Stadium.
City have sent scouting delegations to a handful of Sevilla games towards the end of last year and over the past fortnight, with sporting director Txiki Begiristain and manager Manuel Pellegrini both big fans of the full-back.
Moreno has been heavily linked to Napoli in recent weeks, with Sevilla said to have turned down an offer from the Italian outfit on Monday as they want to keep hold of the youngster until at least the end of the season. Real Madrid and Chelsea are also thought to be keeping tabs on the defender.
However City, who have a strong relationship with Sevilla following the signings of Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo this summer, are confident over a move should they choose to pursue Moreno.
The Andalusian outfit value Moreno, who is close to both Negredo and Navas having come through Sevilla's youth ranks, at between €20-25 million.
City have been linked with a move for Southampton youngster Luke Shaw, but Goal understands that Chelsea are leading the race for the teenager.
Southampton have slapped a €30m price tag on the Saints prodigy after the Blues made an enquiry for him earlier in January.
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