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Arsenal 0-2 Bayern Munich: Kroos & Muller punish 10-man Gunners
Toni Kroos produced a stunning second-half strike as Bayern Munich won 2-0 at Arsenal in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie.
Both sides had missed first-half penalties, with Mesut Ozil missing from the spot for the Gunners and David Alaba failing to convert for Bayern, though Arsenal had goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny sent off for the foul that conceded the Germans' penalty.
Kroos nevertheless struck in the 54th minute to give the defending champions an away goal, before Thomas Muller netted late on to hand them a precious 2-0 lead ahead of the second leg in Germany.
Arsene Wenger's surprise decision to start Yaya Sanogo ahead of Olivier Giroud appeared inspired as the pace of the French youngster and recalled Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain unsettled Europe's tightest defence in the opening stages.
But Bayern had stunned Manchester City with early goals in both their group-stage games against Arsenal’s Premier League counterparts and Kroos almost repeated the trick when he sent a 25-yard effort arrowing for the top corner in the second minute.
Szczesny, though, made a fine fingertip save and Arsenal went on to pin back their illustrious opponents during the opening exchanges.
Manuel Neuer stopped Sanogo from giving Arsenal reward for their early endeavour as he produced an excellent reaction stop following Jack Wilshere’s prodded pass towards the striker.
Wilshere then released Ozil and Jerome Boateng - who endured a particularly torrid start - felled his Germany international team-mate in the area. But Ozil failed to capitalise from 12 yards as Neuer pushed away a tame effort.
That disappointment checked Arsenal's momentum, although Neuer had to rush out and deny Oxlade-Chamberlain in the 24th minute when the winger got the better of Alaba on the end of Sanogo's raking pass.
Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs departed with a hamstring problem after half an hour and replacement Nacho Monreal did not get up to speed quickly enough.
Robben raced past a static Monreal onto a delightful chipped pass from Kroos in the 37th minute and Szczesny charged out and brought the Dutchman down.
The Poland goalkeeper will miss the return match in Munich and may also find himself in hot water with Uefa after appearing to make an offensive gesture when leaving the field after being shown his red card.
A lengthy delay followed and, although Alaba sent replacement Lukasz Fabianski the wrong way, his penalty rattled the base of the post.
Predictably, Bayern began the second half firmly on the front foot as Thiago Alcantara narrowly failed to connect with a cross from the left and Kroos drilled a low shot at substitute goalkeeper Fabianski.
Laurent Koscielny then stabbed goalwards from Ozil's 51st-minute free-kick but it was a moment of brief respite and the visitors led three-minutes later, Kroos curling into the top corner from 20 yards.
Fabianski then saved twice from Robben and Muller almost found a decisive touch to cap the latest rampage from Rafinha in the 66th minute.
By now, the attacks were relentless and, when Muller stooped to head a deserved second with two minutes left, it was no more than Bayern deserved.
They could even have added a third when Kroos rattled the post as Bayern looked to pile on the misery. But two would prove enough in the end for the defending champions, as a tough second leg lies ahead for Arsenal.
Toni Kroos produced a stunning second-half strike as Bayern Munich won 2-0 at Arsenal in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie.
Both sides had missed first-half penalties, with Mesut Ozil missing from the spot for the Gunners and David Alaba failing to convert for Bayern, though Arsenal had goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny sent off for the foul that conceded the Germans' penalty.
Kroos nevertheless struck in the 54th minute to give the defending champions an away goal, before Thomas Muller netted late on to hand them a precious 2-0 lead ahead of the second leg in Germany.
Arsene Wenger's surprise decision to start Yaya Sanogo ahead of Olivier Giroud appeared inspired as the pace of the French youngster and recalled Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain unsettled Europe's tightest defence in the opening stages.
But Bayern had stunned Manchester City with early goals in both their group-stage games against Arsenal’s Premier League counterparts and Kroos almost repeated the trick when he sent a 25-yard effort arrowing for the top corner in the second minute.
Szczesny, though, made a fine fingertip save and Arsenal went on to pin back their illustrious opponents during the opening exchanges.
Manuel Neuer stopped Sanogo from giving Arsenal reward for their early endeavour as he produced an excellent reaction stop following Jack Wilshere’s prodded pass towards the striker.
Wilshere then released Ozil and Jerome Boateng - who endured a particularly torrid start - felled his Germany international team-mate in the area. But Ozil failed to capitalise from 12 yards as Neuer pushed away a tame effort.
That disappointment checked Arsenal's momentum, although Neuer had to rush out and deny Oxlade-Chamberlain in the 24th minute when the winger got the better of Alaba on the end of Sanogo's raking pass.
Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs departed with a hamstring problem after half an hour and replacement Nacho Monreal did not get up to speed quickly enough.
Robben raced past a static Monreal onto a delightful chipped pass from Kroos in the 37th minute and Szczesny charged out and brought the Dutchman down.
The Poland goalkeeper will miss the return match in Munich and may also find himself in hot water with Uefa after appearing to make an offensive gesture when leaving the field after being shown his red card.
A lengthy delay followed and, although Alaba sent replacement Lukasz Fabianski the wrong way, his penalty rattled the base of the post.
Predictably, Bayern began the second half firmly on the front foot as Thiago Alcantara narrowly failed to connect with a cross from the left and Kroos drilled a low shot at substitute goalkeeper Fabianski.
Laurent Koscielny then stabbed goalwards from Ozil's 51st-minute free-kick but it was a moment of brief respite and the visitors led three-minutes later, Kroos curling into the top corner from 20 yards.
Fabianski then saved twice from Robben and Muller almost found a decisive touch to cap the latest rampage from Rafinha in the 66th minute.
By now, the attacks were relentless and, when Muller stooped to head a deserved second with two minutes left, it was no more than Bayern deserved.
They could even have added a third when Kroos rattled the post as Bayern looked to pile on the misery. But two would prove enough in the end for the defending champions, as a tough second leg lies ahead for Arsenal.
AC Milan 0-1 Atletico Madrid: Late Costa strike stuns San Siro
Diego Costa's 83rd minute strike stunned San Siro and gave Atletico Madrid a narrow 1-0 win over AC Milan in the first-leg of their last-16 Champions League tie.
Milan looked on course for a well-deserved draw after having the better chances in the match, however Costa struck his fifth goal in four European games this season to seal victory.
The Serie A side had the better of the first half with excellent opportunities to open the scoring, but they lacked quality in front of goal as Andrea Poli and Kaka both missed good chances, while visiting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was in inspired form.
Atleti improved after the interval, but chances for either side were few and far between, with Christian Abbiati only called into action once in the whole game by the visitors until Costa powered a header beyond him in the closing stages.The result gives Atleti a crucial away goal going into the second leg at the Vicente Calderon in three weeks' time.
Diego Simeone's side attacked from the off, though Abbiati was untested and Milan slowly worked their way back into the game with good spells of possession.
They created a number of good opportunities to break the deadlock but suffered from a lack of accuracy in their finishing and found Courtois in fine form when they did get the ball on target.
The Belgian goalkeeper diverted Kaka’s effort onto the crossbar in the 15th minute and three minutes later he produced an outstanding stop to tip Poli’s close-range header onto the post.Kaka went close again for the hosts after latching onto a backheel from Mario Balotelli, but the Brazilian curled his effort just over the bar.
Clarence Seedorf will have been impressed with his side's performance but they failed to capitalise, Balotelli missing the last chance of the first half as his long-range effort bent wide of goal.With the words of Simeone no doubt ringing in their ears, Atleti came out for the second half with renewed energy, but clear-cut chances were still not forthcoming.
After a quiet opening period, Costa saw an attempted acrobatic volley fly way over the bar and an effort from Raul Garcia went the same way with the midfielder's low effort smothered by Abbiati as chances of a goal looked to be running out.However, with seven minutes to play, the veteran goalkeeper was unable to get anywhere near a header from Costa, with the Brazilian pulling away from his marker to give the visitors victory.
Adil Rami went close to levelling for Milan with a powerful long-range effort but it flew wide of Courtois' right-hand post, leaving Milan with it all to in Spain on March 11.
Diego Costa's 83rd minute strike stunned San Siro and gave Atletico Madrid a narrow 1-0 win over AC Milan in the first-leg of their last-16 Champions League tie.
Milan looked on course for a well-deserved draw after having the better chances in the match, however Costa struck his fifth goal in four European games this season to seal victory.
The Serie A side had the better of the first half with excellent opportunities to open the scoring, but they lacked quality in front of goal as Andrea Poli and Kaka both missed good chances, while visiting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was in inspired form.
Atleti improved after the interval, but chances for either side were few and far between, with Christian Abbiati only called into action once in the whole game by the visitors until Costa powered a header beyond him in the closing stages.The result gives Atleti a crucial away goal going into the second leg at the Vicente Calderon in three weeks' time.
Diego Simeone's side attacked from the off, though Abbiati was untested and Milan slowly worked their way back into the game with good spells of possession.
They created a number of good opportunities to break the deadlock but suffered from a lack of accuracy in their finishing and found Courtois in fine form when they did get the ball on target.
The Belgian goalkeeper diverted Kaka’s effort onto the crossbar in the 15th minute and three minutes later he produced an outstanding stop to tip Poli’s close-range header onto the post.Kaka went close again for the hosts after latching onto a backheel from Mario Balotelli, but the Brazilian curled his effort just over the bar.
Clarence Seedorf will have been impressed with his side's performance but they failed to capitalise, Balotelli missing the last chance of the first half as his long-range effort bent wide of goal.With the words of Simeone no doubt ringing in their ears, Atleti came out for the second half with renewed energy, but clear-cut chances were still not forthcoming.
After a quiet opening period, Costa saw an attempted acrobatic volley fly way over the bar and an effort from Raul Garcia went the same way with the midfielder's low effort smothered by Abbiati as chances of a goal looked to be running out.However, with seven minutes to play, the veteran goalkeeper was unable to get anywhere near a header from Costa, with the Brazilian pulling away from his marker to give the visitors victory.
Adil Rami went close to levelling for Milan with a powerful long-range effort but it flew wide of Courtois' right-hand post, leaving Milan with it all to in Spain on March 11.
Wenger 'frustrated' by Robben
Arsene Wenger has criticised Bayern Munich star Arjen Robben for making the most of Wojciech Szczesny's foul in the first half which resulted in Arsenal being reduced to 10 men.
Mesut Ozil had a penalty given then saved in the Champions League last-16 first leg before referee Nicola Rizzoli returned the favour to die Roten when the Gunners goalkeeper clattered into the Bavarians' Dutch attacker, earning him a red card.
David Alaba missed the subsequent spot kick but, after Bayern went on to dominate the game and scored through Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller, Wenger hit out at what he considered to be theatrics from Robben.
"I think the second-half was boring for neutral people,” Wenger told reporters. "It was one-way traffic. The referee made a decision that killed the game.
"In Italy, they send you off for these kind of fouls. I think our goalkeeper genuinely went for the ball. He touched Robben who made more of it - I told him [Robben] that. He has enough experience to know to make more of it.
"I just feel frustrated. It was a great football game until half-time and there was no game at all after half-time."
Wenger was also critical of Ozil's penalty effort an performance, suggesting Manuel Neuer's save allowed the Bavarians to get their bearings on the game due to the drop in confidence.
"Ozil missed a penalty. I prefer when people run properly at the ball," Wenger added. "It’s his style of play, what can I say? We needed to score that penalty tonight.
“He was affected by it. I think he wanted to do so well tonight, it affected him. You could see he will still shaking his head five to 10 minutes later. It had a huge impact on his performance.
“You’re always concerned about the confidence of your players because that’s your petrol for the team. It gives them the desire to go and play.”
Arsene Wenger has criticised Bayern Munich star Arjen Robben for making the most of Wojciech Szczesny's foul in the first half which resulted in Arsenal being reduced to 10 men.
Mesut Ozil had a penalty given then saved in the Champions League last-16 first leg before referee Nicola Rizzoli returned the favour to die Roten when the Gunners goalkeeper clattered into the Bavarians' Dutch attacker, earning him a red card.
David Alaba missed the subsequent spot kick but, after Bayern went on to dominate the game and scored through Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller, Wenger hit out at what he considered to be theatrics from Robben.
"I think the second-half was boring for neutral people,” Wenger told reporters. "It was one-way traffic. The referee made a decision that killed the game.
"In Italy, they send you off for these kind of fouls. I think our goalkeeper genuinely went for the ball. He touched Robben who made more of it - I told him [Robben] that. He has enough experience to know to make more of it.
"I just feel frustrated. It was a great football game until half-time and there was no game at all after half-time."
Wenger was also critical of Ozil's penalty effort an performance, suggesting Manuel Neuer's save allowed the Bavarians to get their bearings on the game due to the drop in confidence.
"Ozil missed a penalty. I prefer when people run properly at the ball," Wenger added. "It’s his style of play, what can I say? We needed to score that penalty tonight.
“He was affected by it. I think he wanted to do so well tonight, it affected him. You could see he will still shaking his head five to 10 minutes later. It had a huge impact on his performance.
“You’re always concerned about the confidence of your players because that’s your petrol for the team. It gives them the desire to go and play.”
'I'm not happy with Bayern bench' - Muller
Thomas Muller says he is "not happy" with being left on the bench after a late cameo saw him score Bayern Munich's second goal in the 2-0 win over 10-man Arsenal on Wednesday.
Both sides missed penalties in the first half, with Mesut Ozil and David Alaba the guilty parties, while Gunners' keeper Wojciech Szcezny was sent off for bringing down Robben for the Bavarians' spot-kick.
Toni Kroos eventually broke the deadlock with a stunning curling effort from the edge of the box early in the second period and Muller then came off the bench to score a killer second and put his side firmly in control of the last 16 tie Champions League tie ahead of the second leg in Munich.
"I was not surprised at not starting," the Germany international, 24, told Sky. "Pep and I talk to each other so I knew what was coming.
"Of course I am not happy with it. But he knows and is aware that I am a total team player. A match lasts longer than 60 minutes and I am happy I could come in and help the team."
Manuel Neuer saved a penalty from Mesut Ozil in the opening 10 minutes to stem what was a strong Gunners start, but says his years at Schalke with the midfielder did not mean he knew where he would shoot.
"No, the most important thing is how he runs towards the ball," the Bayern goalkeeper said. "He is a player who decides very late where to shoot. So I waited long enough so I could save the ball even if it was placed in the middle."
The Bavarians will host Arsene Wenger's men at the Allianz Arena on March 11 in the return leg.
Thomas Muller says he is "not happy" with being left on the bench after a late cameo saw him score Bayern Munich's second goal in the 2-0 win over 10-man Arsenal on Wednesday.
Both sides missed penalties in the first half, with Mesut Ozil and David Alaba the guilty parties, while Gunners' keeper Wojciech Szcezny was sent off for bringing down Robben for the Bavarians' spot-kick.
Toni Kroos eventually broke the deadlock with a stunning curling effort from the edge of the box early in the second period and Muller then came off the bench to score a killer second and put his side firmly in control of the last 16 tie Champions League tie ahead of the second leg in Munich.
"I was not surprised at not starting," the Germany international, 24, told Sky. "Pep and I talk to each other so I knew what was coming.
"Of course I am not happy with it. But he knows and is aware that I am a total team player. A match lasts longer than 60 minutes and I am happy I could come in and help the team."
Manuel Neuer saved a penalty from Mesut Ozil in the opening 10 minutes to stem what was a strong Gunners start, but says his years at Schalke with the midfielder did not mean he knew where he would shoot.
"No, the most important thing is how he runs towards the ball," the Bayern goalkeeper said. "He is a player who decides very late where to shoot. So I waited long enough so I could save the ball even if it was placed in the middle."
The Bavarians will host Arsene Wenger's men at the Allianz Arena on March 11 in the return leg.
Guardiola: Szczesny deserved red card
Pep Guardiola believes that the referee had no choice but to send off Wojciech Szczesny in Bayern Munich's 2-0 win over Arsenal on Wednesday.
The Gunners started strongly but a missed Mesut Ozil penalty and the sending off of their goalkeeper took the wind firmly out of their sails.
David Alaba missed the resulting spot kick, but the outstanding Toni Kroos and substitute Thomas Muller scored in the second half to give die Roten a 2-0 triumph in the Champions League last-16 first leg.
"Arsenal were much, much better than us in the first 10-15 minutes but, after the mistake from Ozil, from that moment we played better," Guardiola told Sky Sports.
"After the red card it became our game. If it's the last man then the referee has to give a penalty and a red card."
The former Barcelona boss lamented the Gunners' defensive approach after they went a man down but was pleased with the way his team wore the hosts down - and cherished his first win at the Emirates Stadium at his third attempt as coach.
"It's difficult to play when you see nine players in their box," Guardiola added. "It was important that we controlled the situation. We played with patience, patience, patience, and in the end we got our goals.
"The last two times I came here with Barcelona we played amazing but we didn't win. So it's great to win here.
"[We must avoid what happened] last year when Bayern had a bad result in the second leg. We're going to play the second leg to win the game."
The Allianz Arena will host the second leg on March 11, when Arsenal attempt a repeat of last season's 2-0 victory in Munich.
Pep Guardiola believes that the referee had no choice but to send off Wojciech Szczesny in Bayern Munich's 2-0 win over Arsenal on Wednesday.
The Gunners started strongly but a missed Mesut Ozil penalty and the sending off of their goalkeeper took the wind firmly out of their sails.
David Alaba missed the resulting spot kick, but the outstanding Toni Kroos and substitute Thomas Muller scored in the second half to give die Roten a 2-0 triumph in the Champions League last-16 first leg.
"Arsenal were much, much better than us in the first 10-15 minutes but, after the mistake from Ozil, from that moment we played better," Guardiola told Sky Sports.
"After the red card it became our game. If it's the last man then the referee has to give a penalty and a red card."
The former Barcelona boss lamented the Gunners' defensive approach after they went a man down but was pleased with the way his team wore the hosts down - and cherished his first win at the Emirates Stadium at his third attempt as coach.
"It's difficult to play when you see nine players in their box," Guardiola added. "It was important that we controlled the situation. We played with patience, patience, patience, and in the end we got our goals.
"The last two times I came here with Barcelona we played amazing but we didn't win. So it's great to win here.
"[We must avoid what happened] last year when Bayern had a bad result in the second leg. We're going to play the second leg to win the game."
The Allianz Arena will host the second leg on March 11, when Arsenal attempt a repeat of last season's 2-0 victory in Munich.
Mertesacker: Arsenal can repeat Munich miracle
Per Mertesacker insists there is no reason why Arsenal cannot repeat last season's victory in Munich and qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League, despite Wednesday’s demoralising first-leg defeat.
Arsenal were reduced to 10 men in the first half when Wojciech Szczesny was sent off for a foul on Arjen Robben and the holders made their numerical advantage count after the break with goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller.
But the Gunners won 2-0 in the Allianz Arena at this stage of the competition last season and, though they went out on away goals, Mertesacker feels his side are capable of repeating the result.
"I think we started really well," the 29-year-old told Sky Sports. "[We] deserved one goal at least. Afterwards we dropped more with the red card and it was even more difficult.
"We are looking forward to Munich. Why can’t we repeat that from last year?"
Mertesacker did hint, though, that tiredness may have caught up with the Gunners as they failed to stop Pep Guardiola's side from leaving north London with a 2-0 win.
"We played four games in the last two weeks [and] Bayern are a fantastic team [who] keep possession. We tried everything and would’ve deserved that first goal.
"We have to take that defeat [but] overall we are stronger than last year. There are a lot of ifs and buts but we must take the result.
"It’s a bit of blow for us, we must remind ourselves of last year. They underestimated us and we showed great spirit.
"We have to switch on Saturday in the Premier League and get three points and after that we have a break that we need desperately."
On the penalty that Arjen Robben won in the first half, the German said: "I don’t have a view of the red. There was contact I don’t know if it’s a red. The ball [is] far away from the goal but he touched him so for sure it’s a penalty."
Per Mertesacker insists there is no reason why Arsenal cannot repeat last season's victory in Munich and qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League, despite Wednesday’s demoralising first-leg defeat.
Arsenal were reduced to 10 men in the first half when Wojciech Szczesny was sent off for a foul on Arjen Robben and the holders made their numerical advantage count after the break with goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller.
But the Gunners won 2-0 in the Allianz Arena at this stage of the competition last season and, though they went out on away goals, Mertesacker feels his side are capable of repeating the result.
"I think we started really well," the 29-year-old told Sky Sports. "[We] deserved one goal at least. Afterwards we dropped more with the red card and it was even more difficult.
"We are looking forward to Munich. Why can’t we repeat that from last year?"
Mertesacker did hint, though, that tiredness may have caught up with the Gunners as they failed to stop Pep Guardiola's side from leaving north London with a 2-0 win.
"We played four games in the last two weeks [and] Bayern are a fantastic team [who] keep possession. We tried everything and would’ve deserved that first goal.
"We have to take that defeat [but] overall we are stronger than last year. There are a lot of ifs and buts but we must take the result.
"It’s a bit of blow for us, we must remind ourselves of last year. They underestimated us and we showed great spirit.
"We have to switch on Saturday in the Premier League and get three points and after that we have a break that we need desperately."
On the penalty that Arjen Robben won in the first half, the German said: "I don’t have a view of the red. There was contact I don’t know if it’s a red. The ball [is] far away from the goal but he touched him so for sure it’s a penalty."
We knew we could beat Milan, says Diego Costa
Diego Costa says Atletico Madrid knew that they would beat AC Milan if they gave their all following the 1-0 win at San Siro.
The striker left it late to head in the winner for the Rojiblancos after the Rossoneri were denied numerous chances by wayward strikes or super saves from Thibaut Courtois.
Costa lauded the Belgian goalkeeper, who's spending his third season on loan at the Vicente Calderon and insisted that Diego Simeone's men will do their absolute utmost to finish the job in the second leg.
"Courtois is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and he knows it," the Brazilian-born forward told Uefa.com.
"With a goalkeeper like him, we feel more secure. We know this is not finished yet, though. We have a good result but Milan are a great side and anything can happen.
"We’re not going to be over-confident. After our run of defeats people lost faith but we’ve shown how strong we are. We knew we’d have to withstand pressure and be decisive in our moment.
"Our best virtue is the bond of the team. We knew that with hard work we could get a result."
Atletico will face Clarence Seedorf's side in the second leg on March 11 at the Vicente Calderon.
Diego Costa says Atletico Madrid knew that they would beat AC Milan if they gave their all following the 1-0 win at San Siro.
The striker left it late to head in the winner for the Rojiblancos after the Rossoneri were denied numerous chances by wayward strikes or super saves from Thibaut Courtois.
Costa lauded the Belgian goalkeeper, who's spending his third season on loan at the Vicente Calderon and insisted that Diego Simeone's men will do their absolute utmost to finish the job in the second leg.
"Courtois is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and he knows it," the Brazilian-born forward told Uefa.com.
"With a goalkeeper like him, we feel more secure. We know this is not finished yet, though. We have a good result but Milan are a great side and anything can happen.
"We’re not going to be over-confident. After our run of defeats people lost faith but we’ve shown how strong we are. We knew we’d have to withstand pressure and be decisive in our moment.
"Our best virtue is the bond of the team. We knew that with hard work we could get a result."
Atletico will face Clarence Seedorf's side in the second leg on March 11 at the Vicente Calderon.
I knew Neuer would save Ozil penalty - Ribery
Franck Ribery says he knew that Manuel Neuer would save Mesut Ozil's penalty in Bayern Munich's 2-0 win over Arsenal on Wednesday.
The Frenchman did not feature at the Emirates Stadium after undergoing surgery on his buttocks earlier this month but watched from the sidelines as the Bavarians swept the Gunners aside thanks to second-half goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller.
Ribery praised the way Arsene Wenger's men began the Champions League last-16 first leg, but thinks that Neuer's brilliance between the sticks ensured that the goalkeeper's former Schalke team-mate could not give the hosts an advantage.
"Arsenal played well and the first 10 minutes were not easy for us," he told Sky.
"I said ahead of the penalty that Neuer would save it. I trusted Neuer and he did it. He is the best goalkeeper around."
The France international, 30, is hoping he can return to Pep Guardiola's squad for the second leg on March 11 but suspects he will not be fit in time for the international break at the beginning of next month.
"I am fine and I started running on the pitch again two days ago," Ribery added. "Now I have to get my fitness back.
"The second leg against Arsenal is a realistic comeback date, at the moment I have a good feeling about it. The friendly for France against Netherlands is probably too early."
Franck Ribery says he knew that Manuel Neuer would save Mesut Ozil's penalty in Bayern Munich's 2-0 win over Arsenal on Wednesday.
The Frenchman did not feature at the Emirates Stadium after undergoing surgery on his buttocks earlier this month but watched from the sidelines as the Bavarians swept the Gunners aside thanks to second-half goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller.
Ribery praised the way Arsene Wenger's men began the Champions League last-16 first leg, but thinks that Neuer's brilliance between the sticks ensured that the goalkeeper's former Schalke team-mate could not give the hosts an advantage.
"Arsenal played well and the first 10 minutes were not easy for us," he told Sky.
"I said ahead of the penalty that Neuer would save it. I trusted Neuer and he did it. He is the best goalkeeper around."
The France international, 30, is hoping he can return to Pep Guardiola's squad for the second leg on March 11 but suspects he will not be fit in time for the international break at the beginning of next month.
"I am fine and I started running on the pitch again two days ago," Ribery added. "Now I have to get my fitness back.
"The second leg against Arsenal is a realistic comeback date, at the moment I have a good feeling about it. The friendly for France against Netherlands is probably too early."
Darren Fletcher is poised to make his first Scotland appearance for over a year after being named in the squad to face Poland next month.
The Manchester United midfielder's career has been plagued by chronic bowel disease ulcerative colitis, but he made his comeback for David Moyes' side against Aston Villa in December after almost a year on the sidelines.
Fletcher has made a further eight appearances for the Premier League champions since then and Scotland boss Gordon Strachan has not hesitated to bring the 30-year-old back into the fold for the friendly in Warsaw on March 5.
"It was wonderful over the Christmas period to see him back playing football," said Strachan.
"We have got to take it a stage further. I've seen him playing and he has lost none of his enthusiasm, which he will never lose. To have him back in the squad is terrific."
Full-back Andrew Robertson has received his first call-up following his fine form for Dundee United and fellow team-mate Phil Bardsley is recalled after forcing his way back into the Sunderland side.
Squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Matt Gilks (Blackpool), David Marshall (Cardiff City), Allan McGregor (Hull City)
Defenders: Phil Bardsley (Sunderland), Christophe Berra (Ipswich Town), Gordon Greer (Brighton and Hove Albion), Grant Hanley (Blackburn Rovers), Alan Hutton (Aston Villa), Russell Martin (Norwich City), Andrew Robertson (Dundee United), Steven Whittaker (Norwich City)
Midfielders: Charlie Adam (Stoke City), Ikechi Anya (Watford), Barry Bannan (Crystal Palace), Scott Brown (Celtic), Chris Burke (Birmingham City), Darren Fletcher (Manchester United), James Forrest (Celtic), James Morrison (West Brom), Charlie Mulgrew (Celtic), Robert Snodgrass (Norwich City)
Forwards: Steven Fletcher (Sunderland), Ross McCormack (Leeds United), Steven Naismith (Everton)
Good luck Fletcher
Alba hit with hamstring injury
Barcelona have confirmed full-back Jordi Alba suffered a pulled hamstring during their Champions League win over Manchester City.
The 24-year-old defender played the whole 90 minutes of Barca's 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, but now looks set to miss their La Liga clash with Real Sociedad on Saturday following tests upon his arrival back in Spain.
It is the second time this term that Alba has suffered a muscle strain, as he was sidelined for over two months with a thigh problem before the mid-season break.
Barca confirmed the news of his latest injury on their official website, with a statement reading: "After arriving at the Ciudad Deportiva (Barca's training complex) tests have confirmed that the player Jordi Alba has pulled a hamstring in his right leg.
"The results will put his availability for the next match in doubt."
The Spanish champions' win in Manchester puts them in pole position to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League ahead of the second leg of their last-16 tie at Camp Nou next month.
Barcelona have confirmed full-back Jordi Alba suffered a pulled hamstring during their Champions League win over Manchester City.
The 24-year-old defender played the whole 90 minutes of Barca's 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, but now looks set to miss their La Liga clash with Real Sociedad on Saturday following tests upon his arrival back in Spain.
It is the second time this term that Alba has suffered a muscle strain, as he was sidelined for over two months with a thigh problem before the mid-season break.
Barca confirmed the news of his latest injury on their official website, with a statement reading: "After arriving at the Ciudad Deportiva (Barca's training complex) tests have confirmed that the player Jordi Alba has pulled a hamstring in his right leg.
"The results will put his availability for the next match in doubt."
The Spanish champions' win in Manchester puts them in pole position to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League ahead of the second leg of their last-16 tie at Camp Nou next month.
Barcelona to face new tax probe over Neymar
Barcelona have vowed to "defend their interests and rights" after it was confirmed a new investigation will be opened into the signing of Neymar from Santos last year.
In a document submitted on Wednesday, prosecutors claim Barca failed to pay a sum of €9.1m owed on a taxable payment of €37.9m.
A statement on the official club's website said: "The club’s dealings with respect to this operation, and in light of all information available, was at all times in line with the relevant legal legislation
"Represented by its lawyers, the Club will appear at the Jutjat Central d’Instruccio number 5 within the next few days in order to defend its interests and rights.
"We express our total willingness to collaborate with the Justice authorities in this matter, as we have done since the first moment the issue arose and in any other area in which our presence may be required."
A complaint by Barca socio Jordi Cases over the lack of transparency in the controversial deal led to an initial investigation into club president Sandro Rosell and saw the 49-year-old tender his resignation last month.
New president Josep Maria Bartomeu then presented documents at a press conference later that week that broke down the costs of the transfer.
Those revealed that Barcelona had in fact paid out €86.2m in the total cost of the operation, although the Catalan club insisted that the transfer itself remained at the oft-quoted figure of €57.1m.
It also emerged that the Blaugrana had paid €40m of that fee to the player's parents, but did not detail monies for third-party investors, with supermarket chain DIS unhappy at being cut out of the deal.
Bartomeu has vowed to fight any charges, but the Barca president will now be hit by this new investigation, with the Spanish High Court reguesting that Judge Pablo Ruz press charges against the Catalan club for alleged fiscal offences between 2011 and 2013, relating to the signing of Neymar.
Barcelona have vowed to "defend their interests and rights" after it was confirmed a new investigation will be opened into the signing of Neymar from Santos last year.
In a document submitted on Wednesday, prosecutors claim Barca failed to pay a sum of €9.1m owed on a taxable payment of €37.9m.
A statement on the official club's website said: "The club’s dealings with respect to this operation, and in light of all information available, was at all times in line with the relevant legal legislation
"Represented by its lawyers, the Club will appear at the Jutjat Central d’Instruccio number 5 within the next few days in order to defend its interests and rights.
"We express our total willingness to collaborate with the Justice authorities in this matter, as we have done since the first moment the issue arose and in any other area in which our presence may be required."
A complaint by Barca socio Jordi Cases over the lack of transparency in the controversial deal led to an initial investigation into club president Sandro Rosell and saw the 49-year-old tender his resignation last month.
New president Josep Maria Bartomeu then presented documents at a press conference later that week that broke down the costs of the transfer.
Those revealed that Barcelona had in fact paid out €86.2m in the total cost of the operation, although the Catalan club insisted that the transfer itself remained at the oft-quoted figure of €57.1m.
It also emerged that the Blaugrana had paid €40m of that fee to the player's parents, but did not detail monies for third-party investors, with supermarket chain DIS unhappy at being cut out of the deal.
Bartomeu has vowed to fight any charges, but the Barca president will now be hit by this new investigation, with the Spanish High Court reguesting that Judge Pablo Ruz press charges against the Catalan club for alleged fiscal offences between 2011 and 2013, relating to the signing of Neymar.
Napoli step up interest in Arsenal captain Vermaelen
Napoli are weighing up a summer move for Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen after meeting with the player's agent.
Talks have taken place with Alex Kroes over a possible transfer for his client as Rafa Benitez looks to bolster his defensive options and mount a concerted Serie A challenge next season.
Benitez is a long-term admirer of Vermaelen, who has suffered due to the blossoming partnership between Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny at Emirates Stadium.
Zenit have also been linked with a move for the Belgian before the Russian transfer window closes on February 25, but Arsenal have no intention of letting him go mid-season.
Vermaelen, who has been sidelined with a series of niggling injuries since starting the Gunners' FA Cup win over Tottenham on January 4, has been a fringe player at the Emirates over the last 12 months.
However, the Arsenal staff have been impressed by his attitude and professionalism, and the defender has not pushed strongly for a move even though his place in Belgium's highly competitive starting line-up at the World Cup is under threat.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have told Napoli that they will have to stump up close to €5 million if they are to sign goalkeeper Pepe Reina on a permanent deal.
The 31-year-old Spain international is currently on loan with the Serie A side having been deemed surplus to requirements at Anfield following the £9 million summer signing of Simon Mignolet.
After 25 appearances for Napoli, Rafael Benitez is now keen to tie down the former Villarreal goalkeeper on a permanent basis, although he faces competition from La Liga heavyweights Barcelona, who are searching for a replacement for the departing Victor Valdes.
Liverpool are under no pressure to sell Reina, with the Spaniard contracted until 2016, although the Reds are willing to listen to offers of around €5m for a player that is not seen as having a long-term future at Anfield.
Should Napoli fail to tempt Reina to extend his stay in Italy, Benitez's side could move for Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone as an alternative target.
The 25-year-old has been earning rave reviews for his performances for the Black Cats this season, with Napoli having previously been interested in signing him during his Arsenal days.
Napoli are weighing up a summer move for Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen after meeting with the player's agent.
Talks have taken place with Alex Kroes over a possible transfer for his client as Rafa Benitez looks to bolster his defensive options and mount a concerted Serie A challenge next season.
Benitez is a long-term admirer of Vermaelen, who has suffered due to the blossoming partnership between Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny at Emirates Stadium.
Zenit have also been linked with a move for the Belgian before the Russian transfer window closes on February 25, but Arsenal have no intention of letting him go mid-season.
Vermaelen, who has been sidelined with a series of niggling injuries since starting the Gunners' FA Cup win over Tottenham on January 4, has been a fringe player at the Emirates over the last 12 months.
However, the Arsenal staff have been impressed by his attitude and professionalism, and the defender has not pushed strongly for a move even though his place in Belgium's highly competitive starting line-up at the World Cup is under threat.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have told Napoli that they will have to stump up close to €5 million if they are to sign goalkeeper Pepe Reina on a permanent deal.
The 31-year-old Spain international is currently on loan with the Serie A side having been deemed surplus to requirements at Anfield following the £9 million summer signing of Simon Mignolet.
After 25 appearances for Napoli, Rafael Benitez is now keen to tie down the former Villarreal goalkeeper on a permanent basis, although he faces competition from La Liga heavyweights Barcelona, who are searching for a replacement for the departing Victor Valdes.
Liverpool are under no pressure to sell Reina, with the Spaniard contracted until 2016, although the Reds are willing to listen to offers of around €5m for a player that is not seen as having a long-term future at Anfield.
Should Napoli fail to tempt Reina to extend his stay in Italy, Benitez's side could move for Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone as an alternative target.
The 25-year-old has been earning rave reviews for his performances for the Black Cats this season, with Napoli having previously been interested in signing him during his Arsenal days.
UEFA Europa League 2014.02.20 Fixtures
UEFA Europa League 2014.02.20 Fixtures
Anzhi Makhachkala Vs Genk
FC Dnipro Vs Tottenham Hotspur
PAOK Salonika Vs Benfica
Juventus Vs Trabzonspor
Esbjerg Vs Fiorentina
Slovan Liberec Vs AZ
Dynamo Kyiv Vs Valencia
FC Chornomorets Odesa Vs Lyon
Ajax Vs FC Red Bull
Lazio Vs Ludogorets
Viktoria Plzen Vs Shakhtar Donetsk
NK Maribor Vs Sevilla
Swansea City Vs Napoli
FC Porto Vs Eintracht Frankfurt
Real Betis Vs Rubin Kazan
Maccabi Tel Aviv Vs Basel
Anzhi Makhachkala Vs Genk
FC Dnipro Vs Tottenham Hotspur
PAOK Salonika Vs Benfica
Juventus Vs Trabzonspor
Esbjerg Vs Fiorentina
Slovan Liberec Vs AZ
Dynamo Kyiv Vs Valencia
FC Chornomorets Odesa Vs Lyon
Ajax Vs FC Red Bull
Lazio Vs Ludogorets
Viktoria Plzen Vs Shakhtar Donetsk
NK Maribor Vs Sevilla
Swansea City Vs Napoli
FC Porto Vs Eintracht Frankfurt
Real Betis Vs Rubin Kazan
Maccabi Tel Aviv Vs Basel
Swansea 0-0 Napoli: Monk's men hold their own against Serie A heavyweights
Swansea City were made to rue several first-half opportunities as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli in the UEFA Europa League last-32 clash at the Liberty Stadium on Thursday.
Garry Monk - managing in Europe for the first time - witnessed the Swans put in a spirited performance in the first leg against the Serie A outfit at the Liberty Stadium on Thursday, but saw the likes of Wilfried Bony and captain Ashley Williams miss good chances to break the deadlock.Rafael Benitez's men started at a fast pace, but came close to going behind as Bony almost rounded goalkeeper Rafael Cabral before Williams headed over when unmarked at the back post.
Napoli headed into the match as favourites to progress and were looking for improvement after the break, but failed to put a stamp on the game and Williams again came close with a back-post header on 68 minutes.
Neither team was able to find a winner, however, leaving the tie nicely poised ahead of next week's return leg at the Stadio San Paolo.The visitors had two opportunities to take the lead within the opening five minutes. Jose Callejon first dragged an effort wide from the right before a swift counter-attack led to Marek Hamsik forcing a smart stop from Michel Vorm with a strong left-foot shot.
After surviving that scare Swansea launched an attack of their own and a one-two between Nathan Dyer and Pablo Hernandez saw the former scoop an effort towards the far corner that Rafael did well to keep out.Bony was proving to be a constant threat to the Napoli defence and the Ivorian sprung free of the defence on 22 minutes to latch onto Hernandez's through-ball, but, after failing to round Rafael, his shot struck the goalkeeper in the face and went out for a corner.
Swansea skipper Williams had arguably the best chance of the half five minutes before the break. Hernandez's cross was played deep to the back post, where the centre-back had a free header that he put over the bar.Rafael picked up an ankle injury shortly before the break, meaning regular number one Pepe Reina appeared in goal for Napoli in the second half.
By and large it was still Swansea who continued to control the tempo, although clear-cut chances were hard to come by after the interval. Williams again almost found the breakthrough for Swansea with just over 20 minutes remaining when his towering header from substitute Jonathan de Guzman's free-kick forced Reina into action.
With 15 minutes remaining, Reina had to be on guard to keep the scores level when he parried Wayne Routledge's curling effort from the left-hand side of the box.
There was still time for one last chance for Swansea in the closing stages, but Chico Flores could only head De Guzman's free-kick straight at Reina from close range.
Swansea City were made to rue several first-half opportunities as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli in the UEFA Europa League last-32 clash at the Liberty Stadium on Thursday.
Garry Monk - managing in Europe for the first time - witnessed the Swans put in a spirited performance in the first leg against the Serie A outfit at the Liberty Stadium on Thursday, but saw the likes of Wilfried Bony and captain Ashley Williams miss good chances to break the deadlock.Rafael Benitez's men started at a fast pace, but came close to going behind as Bony almost rounded goalkeeper Rafael Cabral before Williams headed over when unmarked at the back post.
Napoli headed into the match as favourites to progress and were looking for improvement after the break, but failed to put a stamp on the game and Williams again came close with a back-post header on 68 minutes.
Neither team was able to find a winner, however, leaving the tie nicely poised ahead of next week's return leg at the Stadio San Paolo.The visitors had two opportunities to take the lead within the opening five minutes. Jose Callejon first dragged an effort wide from the right before a swift counter-attack led to Marek Hamsik forcing a smart stop from Michel Vorm with a strong left-foot shot.
After surviving that scare Swansea launched an attack of their own and a one-two between Nathan Dyer and Pablo Hernandez saw the former scoop an effort towards the far corner that Rafael did well to keep out.Bony was proving to be a constant threat to the Napoli defence and the Ivorian sprung free of the defence on 22 minutes to latch onto Hernandez's through-ball, but, after failing to round Rafael, his shot struck the goalkeeper in the face and went out for a corner.
Swansea skipper Williams had arguably the best chance of the half five minutes before the break. Hernandez's cross was played deep to the back post, where the centre-back had a free header that he put over the bar.Rafael picked up an ankle injury shortly before the break, meaning regular number one Pepe Reina appeared in goal for Napoli in the second half.
By and large it was still Swansea who continued to control the tempo, although clear-cut chances were hard to come by after the interval. Williams again almost found the breakthrough for Swansea with just over 20 minutes remaining when his towering header from substitute Jonathan de Guzman's free-kick forced Reina into action.
With 15 minutes remaining, Reina had to be on guard to keep the scores level when he parried Wayne Routledge's curling effort from the left-hand side of the box.
There was still time for one last chance for Swansea in the closing stages, but Chico Flores could only head De Guzman's free-kick straight at Reina from close range.
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