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Barcelona confirm Valdes out for seven months
Manchester United 1-1 Bayern Munich: Schweinsteiger hands holders the advantage despite late dismissal
Bastian Schweinsteiger scored a vital away goal as Bayern Munich drew 1-1 with Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, and was later sent off.
Nemanja Vidic opened the scoring with a brilliant second-half header but United's shock lead did not last long, with Schweinsteiger's crisp volley soon levelling proceedings.
The Germany international would not finish the game, however, as he shown a second yellow card late on after a rash challenge on Wayne Rooney.
He will, therefore, miss the second leg on April 9, along with his defensive team-mate Javi Martinez, who picked up a booking of his own for a cynical foul on Javier Hernandez.
The hosts were under the cosh for almost the entire match but captain Vidic grabbed the opening goal 13 minutes into the second half as Europe's premier club competition continued to represent a bright spot in United's otherwise troublesome campaign.
Despite their fall from grace domestically, the Premier League champions had won all four of their European ties at Old Trafford this season prior to Tuesday and that run looked set to continue when the Serbian produced a header of the highest quality from Wayne Rooney's corner.Vidic, departing for Inter at the end of the season, gave United the platform for victory but they were unable to build on it as the recently-crowned German champions equalised through Schweinsteiger just eight minutes later.
The away goal will make life that bit harder for United when they make the trip to Munich, with Pep Guardiola's side holding a slight advantage as the Spaniard looks to replicate predecessor Jupp Heynckes in securing a treble.However, Guardiola will be without Schweinsteiger for the second leg after the midfield lynchpin picked up a second yellow card late on for a foul on Rooney.
Danny Welbeck thought he had opened the scoring early on, only to be penalised for a high foot in the build-up.After a fairly even opening 10 minutes, Bayern began to assert their quality, dominating possession and creating a succession of half-chances.However, the hosts stood firm and did well to deny their opponents any clear sights of goal.
Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben were involved in much of Bayern's best work but even they were unable to manufacture an opportunity until the Dutchman brought a stunning save from David de Gea with a curling left-footed effort from just outside the penalty area.Welbeck then tested Manuel Neuer from range and went on to waste the best chance of the half after being put through one-on-one.
The England international attempted to beat Bayern's goalkeeper with a cheeky lofted effort, but Neuer was not fooled and palmed the ball away with his right hand.The second half continued in much the same vein, with Bayern keeping possession and probing to little effect.
Bayern were made to pay for their inability to break down United when Vidic headed his side in front - angling a header past Neuer after Rooney had delivered a corner from the left.Their joy was shortlived, however, as Schweinsteiger rifled home a knockdown from substitute Mario Mandzukic to bring the atmosphere at Old Trafford down a notch.
While Guardiola's men were unable to clinch a second away goal, they will remain heavy favourites to progress, although Moyes can take heart from the recent performances of Premier League rivals Manchester City and Arsenal at the Allianz Arena.
City won 3-2 in Munich in this season's group stage while Arsenal have picked up a draw and a win on their last two visits to Bavaria.
Barcelona 1-1 Atletico Madrid: Neymar bails out Blaugrana after thunderbolt from Diego
Neymar's composed finish cancelled out Diego's wondergoal as Barcelona rescued a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
It appeared as though the visitors would take a slender lead from the quarter-final encounter at Camp Nou on Tuesday after the Brazilian struck.
Diego had started on the bench, but was called upon in the first half when Diego Costa – who overcame a knee injury to start the match – had to exit play.
And he duly lit up a match that proved every bit as tight as their respective positions in La Liga suggested with a rasping drive from 25 yards.
However, Brazil international Neymar ensured Gerardo Martino's would not head into the return leg at Vicente Calderon with a deficit when he curled past the otherwise excellent Thibaut Courtois with just under 20 minutes remaining.
Diego Simeone's men will still have the advantage of an away goal in that fixture, but the tie remains nicely poised after the first encounter.
The visitors showed no signs of being fazed by a boisterous home crowd in the opening exchanges, home goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto showing the biggest display of nerves, but former Barca man David Villa failed to punish his weak clearance, inexplicably missing the target from eight yards after being found by Arda Turan.
Centre-back Gerard Pique was forced off in the 10th minute after falling heavily in an aerial challenge, with Marc Bartra replacing the Spain international in defence.
Despite the setback, Barcelona started showing glimpses of their free-flowing best and Lionel Messi showed superb footwork to escape Miranda before his throughball was collected by Andres Iniesta who was denied by a great block from Diego Godin.
Atleti were hit with an injury blow of their own as Costa limped off and a subsequent lack of physical presence in their attack helped Barcelona dictate the tempo, but Messi’s tame five-yard header was the closest they went before the break.
Indeed, Martino's men were almost caught on the counter, Villa's curling effort from the edge of the box forcing Pinto into a smart low save on the stroke of half-time.
Barcelona were met with a dogged Atleti display in the second half, and their tenacity paid dividends in the 56th minute.
Diego skipped cleverly past Iniesta before drilling an unstoppable drive that swerved past Pinto and into the top right-hand corner.
Barcelona sought a quick response, and Sergio Busquets' well-controlled volley from 20 yards almost provided one shortly after the hour mark, but Courtois was equal to the task.
However, there was nothing the Belgian could to stop Neymar levelling matters in the 71st minute. Iniesta's exquisite outside-of-the-foot through-ball found the 22-year-old on the left-hand side of the area and he curled a fine strike past a despairing Courtois.
The equaliser buoyed Barcelona, and the visitors had Courtois to thank for ensuring a fourth draw of the season between the two sides, the Chelsea loanee making impressive saves from Iniesta and Messi, the latter of which was a fine diving stop to keep out the Argentina international's superb free kick.
Neymar's composed finish cancelled out Diego's wondergoal as Barcelona rescued a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
It appeared as though the visitors would take a slender lead from the quarter-final encounter at Camp Nou on Tuesday after the Brazilian struck.
Diego had started on the bench, but was called upon in the first half when Diego Costa – who overcame a knee injury to start the match – had to exit play.
And he duly lit up a match that proved every bit as tight as their respective positions in La Liga suggested with a rasping drive from 25 yards.
However, Brazil international Neymar ensured Gerardo Martino's would not head into the return leg at Vicente Calderon with a deficit when he curled past the otherwise excellent Thibaut Courtois with just under 20 minutes remaining.
Diego Simeone's men will still have the advantage of an away goal in that fixture, but the tie remains nicely poised after the first encounter.
The visitors showed no signs of being fazed by a boisterous home crowd in the opening exchanges, home goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto showing the biggest display of nerves, but former Barca man David Villa failed to punish his weak clearance, inexplicably missing the target from eight yards after being found by Arda Turan.
Centre-back Gerard Pique was forced off in the 10th minute after falling heavily in an aerial challenge, with Marc Bartra replacing the Spain international in defence.
Despite the setback, Barcelona started showing glimpses of their free-flowing best and Lionel Messi showed superb footwork to escape Miranda before his throughball was collected by Andres Iniesta who was denied by a great block from Diego Godin.
Atleti were hit with an injury blow of their own as Costa limped off and a subsequent lack of physical presence in their attack helped Barcelona dictate the tempo, but Messi’s tame five-yard header was the closest they went before the break.
Indeed, Martino's men were almost caught on the counter, Villa's curling effort from the edge of the box forcing Pinto into a smart low save on the stroke of half-time.
Barcelona were met with a dogged Atleti display in the second half, and their tenacity paid dividends in the 56th minute.
Diego skipped cleverly past Iniesta before drilling an unstoppable drive that swerved past Pinto and into the top right-hand corner.
Barcelona sought a quick response, and Sergio Busquets' well-controlled volley from 20 yards almost provided one shortly after the hour mark, but Courtois was equal to the task.
However, there was nothing the Belgian could to stop Neymar levelling matters in the 71st minute. Iniesta's exquisite outside-of-the-foot through-ball found the 22-year-old on the left-hand side of the area and he curled a fine strike past a despairing Courtois.
The equaliser buoyed Barcelona, and the visitors had Courtois to thank for ensuring a fourth draw of the season between the two sides, the Chelsea loanee making impressive saves from Iniesta and Messi, the latter of which was a fine diving stop to keep out the Argentina international's superb free kick.
Neymar lets himself down with his diving, says Simeone
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has lashed out at Neymar, claiming that the Barcelona forward had allegedly let himself down with his theatrics in Tuesday's 1-1 Champions League clash in Catalunya.
The Brazil forward netted the equaliser for the Blaugrana, calmly converting Andres Iniesta's stunning through-ball to leave the all-Spanish quarter-final clash beautifully poised ahead of next week's second leg at the Vicente Calderon.
However, while Simeone does not doubt Neymar's talent, he believes that forward is guilty of repeatedly going to ground too easily.
"Diving is his characteristic, like Alexis Sanchez did when I coached him at River Plate," he told Sky Sport. "This part of his game lets him down."
Diego Ribas had put the visitors ahead against the run of play with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box and Simeone praised the substitute before heralding the efforts of all his team in the first leg.
"Diego Ribas played a great game and I'm glad for his goal," Simeone told reporters regarding the player who replaced the injured Diego Costa a third of the way into the match. "He needed that and the team needed him.
"You see that me saying Costa was injured was not a ploy; we've had some problems with him.
"We'll see what they say after the tests to see how long we have to be without him. We will use Raul Garcia, Villa and Adrian in the meantime.
"The team did a tremendous job in a match where both teams have competed with different styles. Everyone did what was best for the club.
"I like to face Barca because we learn and improve. I'm happy with the efforts of the players and the result is good, but everything is open still. The return leg will be a very tough and exciting game."
Atletico, whose players picked up six yellow cards at Camp Nou, host Gerardo Martino's men next Wednesday.
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has lashed out at Neymar, claiming that the Barcelona forward had allegedly let himself down with his theatrics in Tuesday's 1-1 Champions League clash in Catalunya.
The Brazil forward netted the equaliser for the Blaugrana, calmly converting Andres Iniesta's stunning through-ball to leave the all-Spanish quarter-final clash beautifully poised ahead of next week's second leg at the Vicente Calderon.
However, while Simeone does not doubt Neymar's talent, he believes that forward is guilty of repeatedly going to ground too easily.
"Diving is his characteristic, like Alexis Sanchez did when I coached him at River Plate," he told Sky Sport. "This part of his game lets him down."
Diego Ribas had put the visitors ahead against the run of play with a thunderous effort from the edge of the box and Simeone praised the substitute before heralding the efforts of all his team in the first leg.
"Diego Ribas played a great game and I'm glad for his goal," Simeone told reporters regarding the player who replaced the injured Diego Costa a third of the way into the match. "He needed that and the team needed him.
"You see that me saying Costa was injured was not a ploy; we've had some problems with him.
"We'll see what they say after the tests to see how long we have to be without him. We will use Raul Garcia, Villa and Adrian in the meantime.
"The team did a tremendous job in a match where both teams have competed with different styles. Everyone did what was best for the club.
"I like to face Barca because we learn and improve. I'm happy with the efforts of the players and the result is good, but everything is open still. The return leg will be a very tough and exciting game."
Atletico, whose players picked up six yellow cards at Camp Nou, host Gerardo Martino's men next Wednesday.
Robben: Bayern not bothered by Man Utd draw
Arjen Robben insists Bayern Munich are happy with a 1-1 draw from the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United.
Nemanja Vidic opened the scoring just before the hour mark at Old Trafford but Bastian Schweinsteiger volleyed home soon after to secure the visitors a precious away goal, though the midfielder was subsequently sent off, thus ruling him out of next week's second leg in Bavaria.
Bayern had only failed to win two of their previous 2014 competitive clashes going into the game but Robben is not concerned that the team failed to sweep aside the Red Devils, who are currently seventh in the Premier League.
"In the end, we can be satisfied with the 1-1," the Dutchman told NOS. "At least it's better then 0-0. We scored an away goal, so that's a positive thing.
"I didn't like it that people from outside underestimated United. The media were talking about them as though they would be easy to beat. I mean, after all you're playing against United at Old Trafford.
"Of course they're struggling in the Premier League, but that doesn't count on an evening like this. I expect a same kind of match next week.
"We have to move the ball quickly and find the space. We didn't create many major chances, but we're satisfied with 1-1. Next week we have to give it our best again."
Pep Guardiola's helped guide Bayern to a second consecutive Bundesliga title already this season and, with the DFB-Pokal and Champions League still in the club's sights, Robben hailed the coach's impact since arriving last summer.
"It's great privilege to have him with us, he has great influence on our work," the winger added to Mediaset Premium. "He's giving us decisive assistance for the conquest of trophies."
Man Utd will hope to replicate or better Tuesday's result when they travel to the Allianz Arena for the return leg next Wednesday in a bid to reach the last four of the European competition.
Arjen Robben insists Bayern Munich are happy with a 1-1 draw from the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United.
Nemanja Vidic opened the scoring just before the hour mark at Old Trafford but Bastian Schweinsteiger volleyed home soon after to secure the visitors a precious away goal, though the midfielder was subsequently sent off, thus ruling him out of next week's second leg in Bavaria.
Bayern had only failed to win two of their previous 2014 competitive clashes going into the game but Robben is not concerned that the team failed to sweep aside the Red Devils, who are currently seventh in the Premier League.
"In the end, we can be satisfied with the 1-1," the Dutchman told NOS. "At least it's better then 0-0. We scored an away goal, so that's a positive thing.
"I didn't like it that people from outside underestimated United. The media were talking about them as though they would be easy to beat. I mean, after all you're playing against United at Old Trafford.
"Of course they're struggling in the Premier League, but that doesn't count on an evening like this. I expect a same kind of match next week.
"We have to move the ball quickly and find the space. We didn't create many major chances, but we're satisfied with 1-1. Next week we have to give it our best again."
Pep Guardiola's helped guide Bayern to a second consecutive Bundesliga title already this season and, with the DFB-Pokal and Champions League still in the club's sights, Robben hailed the coach's impact since arriving last summer.
"It's great privilege to have him with us, he has great influence on our work," the winger added to Mediaset Premium. "He's giving us decisive assistance for the conquest of trophies."
Man Utd will hope to replicate or better Tuesday's result when they travel to the Allianz Arena for the return leg next Wednesday in a bid to reach the last four of the European competition.
'Atletico draw a bad result' - Xavi
Xavi admitted that Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou was not a good result for Barcelona in the context of their quarter-final tie.
Diego Ribas' barnstorming goal put the Rojiblancos ahead early in the second half, but Neymar curled home a perfect Andres Iniesta pass to deny the visitors a victory.
However, despite Barcelona having come from behind to salvage a draw, Xavi was unhappy with the scoreline, arguing that Gerardo Martino's men had done enough to win the game.
"This isn't a good result," the 34-year-old midfielder told reporters after the game.
"We deserved more, but Diego scored a fantastic goal. Luckily we also scored, so the tie is still open."
The second leg will be held at the Vicente Calderon next Wednesday. Diego Costa is a doubt for the return leg after being forced off a third of the way into the tie with a hamstring injury, while Gerard Pique lasted only 15 minutes before succumbing to a pelvic problem.
"I hope Pique recovers as soon as possible," Marc Bartra, who came off the bench for the centre-back, told reporters. "It's not yet clear if he can play the return game. We hope he can."
Xavi admitted that Tuesday night's 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou was not a good result for Barcelona in the context of their quarter-final tie.
Diego Ribas' barnstorming goal put the Rojiblancos ahead early in the second half, but Neymar curled home a perfect Andres Iniesta pass to deny the visitors a victory.
However, despite Barcelona having come from behind to salvage a draw, Xavi was unhappy with the scoreline, arguing that Gerardo Martino's men had done enough to win the game.
"This isn't a good result," the 34-year-old midfielder told reporters after the game.
"We deserved more, but Diego scored a fantastic goal. Luckily we also scored, so the tie is still open."
The second leg will be held at the Vicente Calderon next Wednesday. Diego Costa is a doubt for the return leg after being forced off a third of the way into the tie with a hamstring injury, while Gerard Pique lasted only 15 minutes before succumbing to a pelvic problem.
"I hope Pique recovers as soon as possible," Marc Bartra, who came off the bench for the centre-back, told reporters. "It's not yet clear if he can play the return game. We hope he can."
'I fear Real Madrid whitewashing' - Klopp
Jurgen Klopp has confessed that he is worried Real Madrid will tear Borussia Dortmund apart in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.
The Schwarzgelben edged Jose Mourinho's men out of the tournament in the semi-final stage last season, winning 4-3 on aggregate after surviving a second-leg onslaught at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Klopp, though, is promising no miracles ahead of his side's return to the Spanish capital and says he has been in awe of the way that Madrid, who swept aside Schalke 9-2 in the previous round, have evolved into an even more formidable team over the past 12 months.
"I'm not a magician but we have had to get over much adversity this season," the German coach told reporters on Tuesday, referring to his side's many injury problems.
"I have very good players and my duty is to make them better; so far we've done that very well.
"Our players that don't feature in every game are going to grow up in this match. Real Madrid are more flexible now. The speed of their game is amazing.
"Barcelona, Madrid and Bayern are the best. We have to keep on evolving. Last year we were a barrier for Madrid and we are going to try to do that again.
"Playing the second leg at home may be a slight advantage but I fear Madrid trying to settle the tie here. I have seen many of their games and they never finish a match without one scoring opportunity.
"They have incredible quality and we can't ignore that. If we play our game and keep our heads up, we will have chances."
Klopp is not worried about his side's underdog tag, however, as he claims they are used to it in European competition nowadays.
"This Bernabeu is amazing and we are going to need 'cojones'," he added. "Madrid are favourites but they've also had their problems this season, although they're better now with Gareth Bale and with Angel Di Maria showing all their quality.
"We are used to not being favourites and becoming uncomfortable opponents. Nobody should leave us spaces because we can be very dangerous.
"It won't be a catastrophe if we lose. Not many teams can say they have done what we have achieved in the last 10 years.
"Maybe we won't have possession but one-on-one duels could be decisive, although Robert Lewandowski's [suspension-induced] absence is a pity for us.
"We are not ready to play without him but we are going to do our best. Let's see what happens."
Jurgen Klopp has confessed that he is worried Real Madrid will tear Borussia Dortmund apart in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday.
The Schwarzgelben edged Jose Mourinho's men out of the tournament in the semi-final stage last season, winning 4-3 on aggregate after surviving a second-leg onslaught at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Klopp, though, is promising no miracles ahead of his side's return to the Spanish capital and says he has been in awe of the way that Madrid, who swept aside Schalke 9-2 in the previous round, have evolved into an even more formidable team over the past 12 months.
"I'm not a magician but we have had to get over much adversity this season," the German coach told reporters on Tuesday, referring to his side's many injury problems.
"I have very good players and my duty is to make them better; so far we've done that very well.
"Our players that don't feature in every game are going to grow up in this match. Real Madrid are more flexible now. The speed of their game is amazing.
"Barcelona, Madrid and Bayern are the best. We have to keep on evolving. Last year we were a barrier for Madrid and we are going to try to do that again.
"Playing the second leg at home may be a slight advantage but I fear Madrid trying to settle the tie here. I have seen many of their games and they never finish a match without one scoring opportunity.
"They have incredible quality and we can't ignore that. If we play our game and keep our heads up, we will have chances."
Klopp is not worried about his side's underdog tag, however, as he claims they are used to it in European competition nowadays.
"This Bernabeu is amazing and we are going to need 'cojones'," he added. "Madrid are favourites but they've also had their problems this season, although they're better now with Gareth Bale and with Angel Di Maria showing all their quality.
"We are used to not being favourites and becoming uncomfortable opponents. Nobody should leave us spaces because we can be very dangerous.
"It won't be a catastrophe if we lose. Not many teams can say they have done what we have achieved in the last 10 years.
"Maybe we won't have possession but one-on-one duels could be decisive, although Robert Lewandowski's [suspension-induced] absence is a pity for us.
"We are not ready to play without him but we are going to do our best. Let's see what happens."
Atletico Madrid lose Diego Costa to injury against Barcelona
Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa picked up a hamstring injury midway through the first half of Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Barcelona.
The 25-year-old, who has never scored against the Catalans, was a major doubt going into the quarter-final tie with an unspecified problem but Rojiblancos coach Diego Simeone named the forward in his starting XI for the first-leg clash at Camp Nou.
However, that decision backfired in the 27th minute when Costa pulled up in obvious discomfort. Although Simeone seemed to try to convince his player to play through the pain, immediate medical treatment was unsuccessful and team-mate Diego Ribas replaced the Spain international with a third of the game gone.
Atletico confirmed in a statement on their Twitter account: "Diego Costa suffered a hamstring muscle injury in his right thigh."
It is currently unclear how long Costa will be out of action for but he is already a major doubt for the second leg at the Vicente Calderon in a weeks' time.
Meanwhile, Barcelona were forced to withdraw centre-back Gerard Pique 15 minutes into the game against Atletico.
The Blaugrana later revealed that the defender, who was replaced by Marc Bartra, had taken "a knock to the pelvis".
Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa picked up a hamstring injury midway through the first half of Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Barcelona.
The 25-year-old, who has never scored against the Catalans, was a major doubt going into the quarter-final tie with an unspecified problem but Rojiblancos coach Diego Simeone named the forward in his starting XI for the first-leg clash at Camp Nou.
However, that decision backfired in the 27th minute when Costa pulled up in obvious discomfort. Although Simeone seemed to try to convince his player to play through the pain, immediate medical treatment was unsuccessful and team-mate Diego Ribas replaced the Spain international with a third of the game gone.
Atletico confirmed in a statement on their Twitter account: "Diego Costa suffered a hamstring muscle injury in his right thigh."
It is currently unclear how long Costa will be out of action for but he is already a major doubt for the second leg at the Vicente Calderon in a weeks' time.
Meanwhile, Barcelona were forced to withdraw centre-back Gerard Pique 15 minutes into the game against Atletico.
The Blaugrana later revealed that the defender, who was replaced by Marc Bartra, had taken "a knock to the pelvis".
Reus: Dortmund know Real Madrid’s weaknesses
Borussia Dortmund’s Marco Reus is confident that his side can get a result against Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.
The midfielder has acknowledged that it will be a difficult match, especially without suspended star striker Robert Lewandowski, but he feels like the team has been well prepared by coach Jurgen Klopp.
The two sides met at the semi-final stage of the competition last season, when Dortmund ran out 4-1 winners in the first leg and 4-3 victors on aggregate, and Reus believes his team can capitalise on the Spanish outfit’s weaknesses on Wednesday.
“I will fill any position, I've played up front before and I'm open to everything,” the Germany international told reporters ahead of the first leg. “I'm glad that I'm fit and healthy for the match and I want to help the team.
“We have a positive attitude. Lewandoski is very important for us. Our coach has been thinking about it and I think we can substitute him well.
“We played very well against Stuttgart last Saturday [Dortmund won 3-2 thanks to Reus' hat-trick] but this is a different match.
“We have played here twice before so we know what to expect. Real Madrid are very strong individually but we also know their weaknesses. We must be ready to take advantage of them at the right moment."
Borussia Dortmund’s Marco Reus is confident that his side can get a result against Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.
The midfielder has acknowledged that it will be a difficult match, especially without suspended star striker Robert Lewandowski, but he feels like the team has been well prepared by coach Jurgen Klopp.
The two sides met at the semi-final stage of the competition last season, when Dortmund ran out 4-1 winners in the first leg and 4-3 victors on aggregate, and Reus believes his team can capitalise on the Spanish outfit’s weaknesses on Wednesday.
“I will fill any position, I've played up front before and I'm open to everything,” the Germany international told reporters ahead of the first leg. “I'm glad that I'm fit and healthy for the match and I want to help the team.
“We have a positive attitude. Lewandoski is very important for us. Our coach has been thinking about it and I think we can substitute him well.
“We played very well against Stuttgart last Saturday [Dortmund won 3-2 thanks to Reus' hat-trick] but this is a different match.
“We have played here twice before so we know what to expect. Real Madrid are very strong individually but we also know their weaknesses. We must be ready to take advantage of them at the right moment."
AC Milan will sign Taarabt - agent
AC Milan and QPR have a deal in place for the permanent transfer of midfielder Adel Taarabt, according to the player's agent.The 24-year-old moved to San Siro on loan for the remainder of the campaign in January and has scored twice in nine appearances under Clarence Seedorf.
Having made a reasonably impressive start to life in Milan, agent Vincenzo Morabito expects his client to move permanently at the end of the campaign.
According to Morabito, it would be "extraordinary" for a permanent deal not to be completed, with a fee already settled on.
"Milan will take up their option and there is already a deal between the two clubs to sign him at the end of the season for a reasonable, symbolic price," he told fantagazzetta.com."It won't be any more than €3 million (£2.5m) or €4 million (£3.3m). It would mean something extraordinary if that didn't happen."Taarabt arrived midway through what has been a turbulent campaign for Milan, who appointed Seedorf as Maximiliano Allegri's replacement in January.
While Seedorf has been able to bring about an upturn in fortunes at San Siro, Milan have bowed out of the Champions League and the Coppa Italia since the turn of the year and sit 11th in the Italian top flight.
AC Milan and QPR have a deal in place for the permanent transfer of midfielder Adel Taarabt, according to the player's agent.The 24-year-old moved to San Siro on loan for the remainder of the campaign in January and has scored twice in nine appearances under Clarence Seedorf.
Having made a reasonably impressive start to life in Milan, agent Vincenzo Morabito expects his client to move permanently at the end of the campaign.
According to Morabito, it would be "extraordinary" for a permanent deal not to be completed, with a fee already settled on.
"Milan will take up their option and there is already a deal between the two clubs to sign him at the end of the season for a reasonable, symbolic price," he told fantagazzetta.com."It won't be any more than €3 million (£2.5m) or €4 million (£3.3m). It would mean something extraordinary if that didn't happen."Taarabt arrived midway through what has been a turbulent campaign for Milan, who appointed Seedorf as Maximiliano Allegri's replacement in January.
While Seedorf has been able to bring about an upturn in fortunes at San Siro, Milan have bowed out of the Champions League and the Coppa Italia since the turn of the year and sit 11th in the Italian top flight.
Kolarov considered leaving Manchester City
Aleksandar Kolarov admits he considered leaving Manchester City last season as he struggled for first-team opportunities under Roberto Mancini.
The Serb enters the final year of his contract this summer and is the subject of interest from Napoli, Juventus and Galatasaray, where Mancini remains an admirer.
City are understood to be planning to discuss an extension in the coming months, however, with Kolarov significantly happier with his role at the Etihad Stadium this season.
"Last season I was thinking, because I didn't play a lot, that maybe it was a good thing for me to move," he told the club's official website.
"I had a couple of opportunities, but in the end I refused everything because I didn't want to go from here. I hadn't shown the people what I can do. Now, this season, I think I have shown what I can do. For me it has been a victory, personally, for myself.
"If you play regularly you can improve a lot in every game. It is difficult if you play one and then don't play three, four games. Training is one thing, the game is one thing. Playing regularly you can improve a lot."
Kolarov has been rotated and sometimes been used in tandem with rival Gael Clichy on the left flank by Manuel Pellegrini, but feels he has been treated fairly by the Chilean.
"We know that at this level you always have another player who is playing in your position. Until now the boss has rotated the team and I think we have done well.
"Of course me and him want to play every game, but the boss makes his choice and we are professionals.
"Maybe if someone is not happy then at the end of the season you can talk and you can find a solution, but both of us have played a lot so now it is important for us to win the trophies."
Aleksandar Kolarov admits he considered leaving Manchester City last season as he struggled for first-team opportunities under Roberto Mancini.
The Serb enters the final year of his contract this summer and is the subject of interest from Napoli, Juventus and Galatasaray, where Mancini remains an admirer.
City are understood to be planning to discuss an extension in the coming months, however, with Kolarov significantly happier with his role at the Etihad Stadium this season.
"Last season I was thinking, because I didn't play a lot, that maybe it was a good thing for me to move," he told the club's official website.
"I had a couple of opportunities, but in the end I refused everything because I didn't want to go from here. I hadn't shown the people what I can do. Now, this season, I think I have shown what I can do. For me it has been a victory, personally, for myself.
"If you play regularly you can improve a lot in every game. It is difficult if you play one and then don't play three, four games. Training is one thing, the game is one thing. Playing regularly you can improve a lot."
Kolarov has been rotated and sometimes been used in tandem with rival Gael Clichy on the left flank by Manuel Pellegrini, but feels he has been treated fairly by the Chilean.
"We know that at this level you always have another player who is playing in your position. Until now the boss has rotated the team and I think we have done well.
"Of course me and him want to play every game, but the boss makes his choice and we are professionals.
"Maybe if someone is not happy then at the end of the season you can talk and you can find a solution, but both of us have played a lot so now it is important for us to win the trophies."
Benzema: Real Madrid have a different mentality now
Real Madrid's Karim Benzema says his side are mentally stronger than last season as they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals.
The two sides met at the semi-final stage last season, when Dortmund ran out 4-1 winners in the first leg and 4-3 victors on aggregate over the tie, but Benzema has insisted that the previous result has been put to the back of the players' minds.
"Everything has gone well up until now," the striker is quoted as saying by Uefa.com. "We've qualified for the quarter-finals and are enjoying a good moment.
"We've won nearly all our games and I think the team feels good."
Despite Dortmund's patchy form this season, the 26-year-old still sees the German outfit as a strong team and believes their inconsistency is a direct result of their unfortunate injury problems.
"I think they still have the same players, but they've had a lot of injuries this season," he said.
"We have put what happened last season to the back of our minds and now we have a new team with a new mentality. We are not thinking about them, although they are a strong team. We will give it our all to get through this round.
"The goal is to win all three titles [this season] and I think we can do it. We have a good team, a strong enough squad to do it. [Carlo] Ancelotti has brought stability to the team and that is important."
The striker also praised team-mates Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo and claims the formidable attacking understanding the trio have formed this season is "easy" to maintain.
"Bale and Ronaldo are great players and we have a very good understanding of each other, both on and off the pitch. It is easy to play with players like them, who are skilful, fast and technical," he added.
Real Madrid's Karim Benzema says his side are mentally stronger than last season as they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals.
The two sides met at the semi-final stage last season, when Dortmund ran out 4-1 winners in the first leg and 4-3 victors on aggregate over the tie, but Benzema has insisted that the previous result has been put to the back of the players' minds.
"Everything has gone well up until now," the striker is quoted as saying by Uefa.com. "We've qualified for the quarter-finals and are enjoying a good moment.
"We've won nearly all our games and I think the team feels good."
Despite Dortmund's patchy form this season, the 26-year-old still sees the German outfit as a strong team and believes their inconsistency is a direct result of their unfortunate injury problems.
"I think they still have the same players, but they've had a lot of injuries this season," he said.
"We have put what happened last season to the back of our minds and now we have a new team with a new mentality. We are not thinking about them, although they are a strong team. We will give it our all to get through this round.
"The goal is to win all three titles [this season] and I think we can do it. We have a good team, a strong enough squad to do it. [Carlo] Ancelotti has brought stability to the team and that is important."
The striker also praised team-mates Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo and claims the formidable attacking understanding the trio have formed this season is "easy" to maintain.
"Bale and Ronaldo are great players and we have a very good understanding of each other, both on and off the pitch. It is easy to play with players like them, who are skilful, fast and technical," he added.
Ronaldo jeers have been forgotten, insists Ancelotti
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has stressed that Cristiano Ronaldo has already forgotten about the whistles aimed at him during the Liga win over Rayo Vallecano at the weekend.
The Portugal international was jeered by the Madrid fans after he refused to set up a team-mate during Saturday's 5-0 win, despite having earlier opened the scoring before setting up Dani Carvajal with an unselfish pass.
Ancelotti has made it clear that nothing more should be made of the incident and says Ronaldo is fired up for the Champions League quarter-final clash with Borussia Dortmund.
"I see Cristiano [Ronaldo] as being highly motivated," Ancelotti stated at a press conference.
"The whistles he received from the crowd have now been forgotten. He was whistled because he didn't pass the ball when that was perhaps the best option. That's all there's to it.
"Cristiano is always giving his all for the club, for the team and for everyone."
Robert Lewandowski - who bagged four goals in Madrid's semi-final defeat to Dortmund last season - is suspended for the first leg, and Ancelotti admits his loss could be crucial.
"Dortmund are missing Lewandowski which is a big loss for them," he said.
"They are a compact team and have excellent transitions in their play [from defence to attack]. They have injuries but won’t change their style.
"I admire their coach a lot. He has done a fantastic job there. He got to the final of the Champions League last season which is a big objective for any coach."
Ancelotti also reflected on last year's semi-final tie and stressed that the Spanish giants will need to play with a lot of intensity in order to match their opponents this year.
"I watched the games against Dortmund from last season. They were strange matches.
"I thought that in the first leg Madrid had good control in the first half. The second half was incredible. In the Champions League things like that can happen. We will need to play with a lot of intensity."
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has stressed that Cristiano Ronaldo has already forgotten about the whistles aimed at him during the Liga win over Rayo Vallecano at the weekend.
The Portugal international was jeered by the Madrid fans after he refused to set up a team-mate during Saturday's 5-0 win, despite having earlier opened the scoring before setting up Dani Carvajal with an unselfish pass.
Ancelotti has made it clear that nothing more should be made of the incident and says Ronaldo is fired up for the Champions League quarter-final clash with Borussia Dortmund.
"I see Cristiano [Ronaldo] as being highly motivated," Ancelotti stated at a press conference.
"The whistles he received from the crowd have now been forgotten. He was whistled because he didn't pass the ball when that was perhaps the best option. That's all there's to it.
"Cristiano is always giving his all for the club, for the team and for everyone."
Robert Lewandowski - who bagged four goals in Madrid's semi-final defeat to Dortmund last season - is suspended for the first leg, and Ancelotti admits his loss could be crucial.
"Dortmund are missing Lewandowski which is a big loss for them," he said.
"They are a compact team and have excellent transitions in their play [from defence to attack]. They have injuries but won’t change their style.
"I admire their coach a lot. He has done a fantastic job there. He got to the final of the Champions League last season which is a big objective for any coach."
Ancelotti also reflected on last year's semi-final tie and stressed that the Spanish giants will need to play with a lot of intensity in order to match their opponents this year.
"I watched the games against Dortmund from last season. They were strange matches.
"I thought that in the first leg Madrid had good control in the first half. The second half was incredible. In the Champions League things like that can happen. We will need to play with a lot of intensity."
Buttner: Manchester United can reach semi-finals
Alexander Buttner is adamant that Manchester United can still reach the semi-finals of the Champions League - despite a 1-1 first-leg draw at home to Bayern Munich.
The Premier League titleholders took a surprise lead at Old Trafford despite watching Bayern dominate possession, with Nemanja Vidic converting Wayne Rooney's corner after 58 minutes.
Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised for the Bavarians nine minutes later, although Buttner has seen enough to convince him that United are capable of getting a positive result at Allianz Arena.
He told Sky Sports: "Of course we can do it. We always believe in ourselves. We had chances to score more goals and we have to focus on that. Defensively, we did well, we didn't give a lot away, just a goal, and I think we have a good chance.
"It was nice to play. For me it was my first big game and I think I did well. We know they can play good football and for myself I defended well against one of the best wingers. It's good to play a good game."
The left-back also denied that he deliberately handled the ball after Rafinha's blasted effort struck the former Vitesse star's arm.
He added to Dutch TV channel NOS: "I kept my arms together and didn't do it on purpose. I couldn't have done it any other way."
David de Gea, meanwhile, hailed United's support at Old Trafford and Tweeted: "Great atmosphere in Old Trafford!!! Thanks again for your incredible support! You're the best. Look forward to 2nd leg. #MUFC"
Alexander Buttner is adamant that Manchester United can still reach the semi-finals of the Champions League - despite a 1-1 first-leg draw at home to Bayern Munich.
The Premier League titleholders took a surprise lead at Old Trafford despite watching Bayern dominate possession, with Nemanja Vidic converting Wayne Rooney's corner after 58 minutes.
Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised for the Bavarians nine minutes later, although Buttner has seen enough to convince him that United are capable of getting a positive result at Allianz Arena.
He told Sky Sports: "Of course we can do it. We always believe in ourselves. We had chances to score more goals and we have to focus on that. Defensively, we did well, we didn't give a lot away, just a goal, and I think we have a good chance.
"It was nice to play. For me it was my first big game and I think I did well. We know they can play good football and for myself I defended well against one of the best wingers. It's good to play a good game."
The left-back also denied that he deliberately handled the ball after Rafinha's blasted effort struck the former Vitesse star's arm.
He added to Dutch TV channel NOS: "I kept my arms together and didn't do it on purpose. I couldn't have done it any other way."
David de Gea, meanwhile, hailed United's support at Old Trafford and Tweeted: "Great atmosphere in Old Trafford!!! Thanks again for your incredible support! You're the best. Look forward to 2nd leg. #MUFC"
Martino: I've failed if Barcelona lose to Atletico
Gerardo Martino believes that it would represent personal failure on his part if Barcelona bow out of the Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
The Catalans failed to conquer the Rojiblancos for the fourth time this campaign on Tuesday, drawing 1-1 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at Camp Nou, with Neymar having cancelled out Diego Ribas' incredible opener.
Martino was far from concerned by his side's performance, though, and was is an optimistic mood ahead of the return leg at the Vicente Calderon next Wednesday.
"To not reach the semi-finals would be failure on my behalf," Martino told TVE after the match.
"We deserved more out of the first leg, but it fills me with confidence considering how we played. We showed intensity for 90 minutes.
"There's no doom and gloom, just satisfaction. Atletico's only chance aside from their goal came from a bad distribution from Jose Pinto early in the game.
"But Diego's goal even made me want to cry out, it was such a golazo."
Martino suggested that Atletico are now slight favourites heading into the second leg due to their home advantage but that his team will go through if they can replicate their first-leg showing.
"The tie is very even," the Argentine added. "I do not know if the fact that them playing at home counts for something but, again, everything is very close.
"The 1-1 result favours them and puts us slightly below but our performance gives me peace of mind. If we can continue like this then we will win."
Gerardo Martino believes that it would represent personal failure on his part if Barcelona bow out of the Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
The Catalans failed to conquer the Rojiblancos for the fourth time this campaign on Tuesday, drawing 1-1 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at Camp Nou, with Neymar having cancelled out Diego Ribas' incredible opener.
Martino was far from concerned by his side's performance, though, and was is an optimistic mood ahead of the return leg at the Vicente Calderon next Wednesday.
"To not reach the semi-finals would be failure on my behalf," Martino told TVE after the match.
"We deserved more out of the first leg, but it fills me with confidence considering how we played. We showed intensity for 90 minutes.
"There's no doom and gloom, just satisfaction. Atletico's only chance aside from their goal came from a bad distribution from Jose Pinto early in the game.
"But Diego's goal even made me want to cry out, it was such a golazo."
Martino suggested that Atletico are now slight favourites heading into the second leg due to their home advantage but that his team will go through if they can replicate their first-leg showing.
"The tie is very even," the Argentine added. "I do not know if the fact that them playing at home counts for something but, again, everything is very close.
"The 1-1 result favours them and puts us slightly below but our performance gives me peace of mind. If we can continue like this then we will win."
Vidic: Manchester United can hurt Bayern
Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic is convinced that his side are capable of causing Bayern Munich problems in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie at Allianz Arena.
The Serb headed United into an unlikely lead at Old Trafford in the first leg on Tuesday night before Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised to leave the tie finely poised with 90 minutes left to play.
And, despite David Moyes's men still being underdogs to go through to the semi-final, Vidic believes that their pace in attacking areas will cause problems for Bayern's defence.
Speaking to ITV Sport after the game he said: "It was a tough game. We had a good result at 1-0, we felt we were in good positions.
"We were solid but one mistake we were punished and they showed what a good team they are. They had a lot of possession tonight. We accept it was going to be most of the game in our half but we tried to go on the counter attack.
"In the Champions League we've played quite well. Other games I think we've defended well, we've played as a team and we're a bigger threat on the counter attack. Against Liverpool it was a different game. They let us have the ball and they played on the counter attack. That's why we struggled.
"It will be the same game [in the second leg at the Allianz Arena]. They're going to have a lot of possession at their ground. We have to keep the shape, stick together and with the players up front with pace I think we can hurt them."
Manchester United centre-back Nemanja Vidic is convinced that his side are capable of causing Bayern Munich problems in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie at Allianz Arena.
The Serb headed United into an unlikely lead at Old Trafford in the first leg on Tuesday night before Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised to leave the tie finely poised with 90 minutes left to play.
And, despite David Moyes's men still being underdogs to go through to the semi-final, Vidic believes that their pace in attacking areas will cause problems for Bayern's defence.
Speaking to ITV Sport after the game he said: "It was a tough game. We had a good result at 1-0, we felt we were in good positions.
"We were solid but one mistake we were punished and they showed what a good team they are. They had a lot of possession tonight. We accept it was going to be most of the game in our half but we tried to go on the counter attack.
"In the Champions League we've played quite well. Other games I think we've defended well, we've played as a team and we're a bigger threat on the counter attack. Against Liverpool it was a different game. They let us have the ball and they played on the counter attack. That's why we struggled.
"It will be the same game [in the second leg at the Allianz Arena]. They're going to have a lot of possession at their ground. We have to keep the shape, stick together and with the players up front with pace I think we can hurt them."
Beckham wants to scrap MLS salary cap
MLS franchise owner David Beckham wants the league to remove its salary cap in order to improve the standard of the competition.
Teams in American top-tier football currently adhere to a €2.25 million cap when it comes to paying their squad members, with each being permitted to sign two designated players - who can earn more - outside those strict regulations.
Former England captain Beckham became the first designated player in the league's history when he signed for LA Galaxy in 2007 and, as he prepares to launch his own franchise in Miami, Beckham is keen to see salary restrictions lifted.
"We're restricted with some of the players that you can pay over the wage cap," he told beIN Sports. "The salary cap removal is what we'll work for, we'll work towards that.
"Obviously that's one of the things that stops a lot of players coming over here, where I think this league and certain cities in this country will attract big-name players."Beckham refused to disclose the indentity of those he is hoping to lure to MLS, but did admit that he will be going after star names.
"I'm not going to mention any players, because it's disrespectful to the players and the teams, but we want to bring big players - we have to," the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star added.
MLS franchise owner David Beckham wants the league to remove its salary cap in order to improve the standard of the competition.
Teams in American top-tier football currently adhere to a €2.25 million cap when it comes to paying their squad members, with each being permitted to sign two designated players - who can earn more - outside those strict regulations.
Former England captain Beckham became the first designated player in the league's history when he signed for LA Galaxy in 2007 and, as he prepares to launch his own franchise in Miami, Beckham is keen to see salary restrictions lifted.
"We're restricted with some of the players that you can pay over the wage cap," he told beIN Sports. "The salary cap removal is what we'll work for, we'll work towards that.
"Obviously that's one of the things that stops a lot of players coming over here, where I think this league and certain cities in this country will attract big-name players."Beckham refused to disclose the indentity of those he is hoping to lure to MLS, but did admit that he will be going after star names.
"I'm not going to mention any players, because it's disrespectful to the players and the teams, but we want to bring big players - we have to," the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star added.
Moyes: Manchester United have a 'fighting chance' of beating Bayern
David Moyes believes Manchester United have a 'fighting chance' of eliminating Bayern Munich from the Champions League after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.
he hosts took the lead in the second half as Nemanja Vidic headed beyond Manuel Neuer unchallenged, before Bastian Schweinsteiger responded with an excellent half-volley.
The result leaves Bayern with an away-goal advantage heading into the quarter-final second leg at the Allianz Arena, but Moyes is confident his side can still progress to the semi-finals.
"We know we've got to score a goal," he told ITV Sport. "At the moment if the score stays the same, Bayern are through. We've got to do something about it.
"I think tonight we said that we wanted to go into the next leg with a real chance - a fighting chance - I think we've done that.
"We've given ourselves a great opportunity to try to go to Munich and get a victory."
Moyes also said referee Carlos Velasco got two crucial decisions correct, first deciding not to show Antonio Valencia a red card, before dismissing Bastian Schweinsteiger with a second yellow for a foul on Wayne Rooney, ruling the Germany international out of the second leg.
He added: "I've had a look at them both. The boy [Alaba] tackles the ball on to Antonio Valencia, they both make a tackle, they get up, he gets there first.
"I think if anything it's just Antonio's follow through, but it wasn't given.
"I think Schweinsteiger trips Wayne up so I think it looks like a booking or if not it's at least a foul."
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