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Juventus 2-0 Livorno: Llorente double fires champions to victory
Fernando Llorente was Juventus' hero as he scored both goals in a 2-0 win over Livorno that cements a top-two finish in Serie A.
With third-placed Napoli losing to Parma on Sunday, Juve coach Antonio Conte knew three points against their relegation-threatened visitors on Monday would seal Champions League football next season.
And the reigning champions, who are now eight points clear of Roma in second and 20 in front of Napoli with just six games remaining, put in an assured display with Llorente, who sat out the midweek Europa League win at Lyon, striking twice in three minutes in the first half.
The Spaniard's first was an emphatic finish from inside the six-yard box, and he then saw a near-post header creep under Francesco Bardi to ensure Juve bounced back from just their second league defeat of the season at Napoli last week by maintaining their perfect home record in Serie A this term.
The second half lacked the intensity of the first, with neither side really coming close to scoring, as Juve seemed content to control proceedings by dominating possession.
Livorno, meanwhile, stay two points adrift of safety in 18th place. After threatening through Innocent Emeghara in the opening minute, the visitors struggled to contain Conte's side and their goal led a charmed life.
Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner wasted early chances for the hosts, but Juve’s pressure eventually paid dividends with Llorente’s quickfire double just after the half-hour mark. Carlos Tevez was the architect for the opener, as he played a neat pass into Llorente, before the Spaniard spun away from his marker and lashed the ball into the top corner.
The 29-year-old then doubled his tally with a close-range header. Andrea Pirlo delivered a corner to the near post and Llorente's header somehow squirmed under Bardi.
Paul Pogba and Tevez both had opportunities to extend the Bianconeri'slead further in the closing minutes of the half, but their long-range efforts were just wide of goal.The start of the second half mirrored the first as Livorno came out very quickly, but their inability to test Gianluigi Buffon meant the hosts were able to keep them at bay.
The reigning Italian champions were far from their best after the break and looked to hit their opponents on the counter-attack, although chances were at a premium.
Llorente's search for a hat-trick saw his first sight of goal in the second half hit the side-netting, while Pogba scuffed an opportunity wide from inside the area.Livorno's Alfred Duncan finally called Buffon into action just before the hour, and the Italy keeper was equal to his long-range effort with a one-handed save.
With Thursday's Europe League quarter-final second leg with Lyon on the horizon, Conte was able to rest Pogba, Llorente and Tevez in the final 20 minutes of the match as Juve took another step towards their third consecutive Scudetto.
Fernando Llorente was Juventus' hero as he scored both goals in a 2-0 win over Livorno that cements a top-two finish in Serie A.
With third-placed Napoli losing to Parma on Sunday, Juve coach Antonio Conte knew three points against their relegation-threatened visitors on Monday would seal Champions League football next season.
And the reigning champions, who are now eight points clear of Roma in second and 20 in front of Napoli with just six games remaining, put in an assured display with Llorente, who sat out the midweek Europa League win at Lyon, striking twice in three minutes in the first half.
The Spaniard's first was an emphatic finish from inside the six-yard box, and he then saw a near-post header creep under Francesco Bardi to ensure Juve bounced back from just their second league defeat of the season at Napoli last week by maintaining their perfect home record in Serie A this term.
The second half lacked the intensity of the first, with neither side really coming close to scoring, as Juve seemed content to control proceedings by dominating possession.
Livorno, meanwhile, stay two points adrift of safety in 18th place. After threatening through Innocent Emeghara in the opening minute, the visitors struggled to contain Conte's side and their goal led a charmed life.
Giorgio Chiellini and Stephan Lichtsteiner wasted early chances for the hosts, but Juve’s pressure eventually paid dividends with Llorente’s quickfire double just after the half-hour mark. Carlos Tevez was the architect for the opener, as he played a neat pass into Llorente, before the Spaniard spun away from his marker and lashed the ball into the top corner.
The 29-year-old then doubled his tally with a close-range header. Andrea Pirlo delivered a corner to the near post and Llorente's header somehow squirmed under Bardi.
Paul Pogba and Tevez both had opportunities to extend the Bianconeri'slead further in the closing minutes of the half, but their long-range efforts were just wide of goal.The start of the second half mirrored the first as Livorno came out very quickly, but their inability to test Gianluigi Buffon meant the hosts were able to keep them at bay.
The reigning Italian champions were far from their best after the break and looked to hit their opponents on the counter-attack, although chances were at a premium.
Llorente's search for a hat-trick saw his first sight of goal in the second half hit the side-netting, while Pogba scuffed an opportunity wide from inside the area.Livorno's Alfred Duncan finally called Buffon into action just before the hour, and the Italy keeper was equal to his long-range effort with a one-handed save.
With Thursday's Europe League quarter-final second leg with Lyon on the horizon, Conte was able to rest Pogba, Llorente and Tevez in the final 20 minutes of the match as Juve took another step towards their third consecutive Scudetto.
Rodriguez ruled out of World Cup
Southampton's Jay Rodriguez will miss this summer's World Cup as he will be out of action for six months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Manchester City on Saturday.
Rodriguez was stretched off after just 26 minutes at the Etihad Stadium after landing awkwardly and scans have now confirmed the injury with the 24-year-old set to undergo surgery on the problem shortly.
The injury means the 24-year-old will not feature again this season for the Saints and will also miss the tournament in Brazil after recently breaking into Roy Hodgson's England squad.
"Jay is naturally disappointed, but is determined to get back playing for Saints as soon as possible," said club director Les Reed.
"Everything will be done to return him to full fitness and deliver a speedy recovery.
"Jay has asked us to pass on his gratitude to everybody who has shown him their concern and sympathy during the 48-or-so hours since his injury.
"Everyone at the Club now wishes Jay well and we will support him, along with his family, to ensure that an international career plays a big part in his future."
Rodriguez has scored 15 goals this season for Southampton and made his England debut in November, in a friendly defeat against Chile.
Lewandowski: Dortmund not the same side that upset Real Madrid last season
Robert Lewandowski has admitted that Borussia Dortmund are not the same side that knocked Real Madrid out of last season's Champions League.
The Bundesliga outfit upset Los Blancos in the last four just under 12 months ago, with Jurgen Klopp's men progressing to the final after a dramatic 4-3 aggregate win, but the Spaniards now look all but certain to gain revenge, having routed BVB 3-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at the Santiago Bernabeu last week.
Indeed, while Lewandowski - who netted four times in last year's stirring first-leg success at Signal Iduna Park - says that he and his team-mates will give their all on Tuesday night, he cannot foresee a Schwarzgelben side shorn of the services of several key players upsetting Madrid again.
"Last year, we were a different side," the forward admitted during a pre-game press conference.
"It would be crazy to think I could score four goals again. But we are always dangerous in Dortmund.
"We have lots of injured players, but still a lot of potential. We still have a minimal chance and we want to give everything."
Lewandowski will start against Madrid after missing last week's first leg in the Spanish capital due to suspension.
Robert Lewandowski has admitted that Borussia Dortmund are not the same side that knocked Real Madrid out of last season's Champions League.
The Bundesliga outfit upset Los Blancos in the last four just under 12 months ago, with Jurgen Klopp's men progressing to the final after a dramatic 4-3 aggregate win, but the Spaniards now look all but certain to gain revenge, having routed BVB 3-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie at the Santiago Bernabeu last week.
Indeed, while Lewandowski - who netted four times in last year's stirring first-leg success at Signal Iduna Park - says that he and his team-mates will give their all on Tuesday night, he cannot foresee a Schwarzgelben side shorn of the services of several key players upsetting Madrid again.
"Last year, we were a different side," the forward admitted during a pre-game press conference.
"It would be crazy to think I could score four goals again. But we are always dangerous in Dortmund.
"We have lots of injured players, but still a lot of potential. We still have a minimal chance and we want to give everything."
Lewandowski will start against Madrid after missing last week's first leg in the Spanish capital due to suspension.
PSG will not sit back against Chelsea, vows Blanc
Laurent Blanc says Paris Saint-Germain have no intention of sitting back and trying to defend their two-goal advantage when they face Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The French champions lead 3-1 after last week's first leg at Parc des Prince and are therefore in the enviable position of being able to invite the Blues onto them before striking on the counterattack.
However, Blanc insists that PSG's plan is to prove themselves a major European force by taking the game to their hosts.
"We will not rely on the fact that the [scoreline] is in our favour," the former France international told reporters on Monday.
"We are going to have to have a great game. Chelsea are going to come at us, looking to level the aggregate score - this should give us chances ... not that we will sit back and endure the match.
"We want to impose our game even though we are away from home. Our aim has become very high. On the domestic front we want to win it all, but our ultimate ambition now is to win the Champions League.
"If we are to be a big European team we need to impose our rhythm and set the tempo of the game both at home and away."
Laurent Blanc says Paris Saint-Germain have no intention of sitting back and trying to defend their two-goal advantage when they face Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The French champions lead 3-1 after last week's first leg at Parc des Prince and are therefore in the enviable position of being able to invite the Blues onto them before striking on the counterattack.
However, Blanc insists that PSG's plan is to prove themselves a major European force by taking the game to their hosts.
"We will not rely on the fact that the [scoreline] is in our favour," the former France international told reporters on Monday.
"We are going to have to have a great game. Chelsea are going to come at us, looking to level the aggregate score - this should give us chances ... not that we will sit back and endure the match.
"We want to impose our game even though we are away from home. Our aim has become very high. On the domestic front we want to win it all, but our ultimate ambition now is to win the Champions League.
"If we are to be a big European team we need to impose our rhythm and set the tempo of the game both at home and away."
Matuidi: PSG can overcome Chelsea without Ibrahimovic
Blaise Matuidi insists Paris Saint-Germain are capable of dumping Chelsea out of the Champions League without star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Sweden international has hit 40 goals in 42 appearances in all competitions this season but will miss Tuesday night's quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge after suffering a hamstring injury in PSG's 3-1 victory over their English opponents at the Parc des Princes last week.
However, Matuidi is adamant that the Ligue 1 champions have sufficient quality within their ranks to cope without their talismanic forward.
"We have the capacity to reach the semi-finals - it will be down to us to show what we can do," the France international told reporters on Monday.
"The fact that Ibrahimovic is absent is a blow for the team, but we have already shown that we can manage without him."
Matuidi conceded, though, that PSG will have to be at their very best to eliminate Jose Mourinho's men.
"It is vital to play a great game against Chelsea and do everything possible to progress," the midfielder warned.
"Chelsea are a team that does not lose many matches, so we must give our maximum to cause them problems.
"The atmosphere in the group is very good, though, and we are all focused."
Blaise Matuidi insists Paris Saint-Germain are capable of dumping Chelsea out of the Champions League without star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The Sweden international has hit 40 goals in 42 appearances in all competitions this season but will miss Tuesday night's quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge after suffering a hamstring injury in PSG's 3-1 victory over their English opponents at the Parc des Princes last week.
However, Matuidi is adamant that the Ligue 1 champions have sufficient quality within their ranks to cope without their talismanic forward.
"We have the capacity to reach the semi-finals - it will be down to us to show what we can do," the France international told reporters on Monday.
"The fact that Ibrahimovic is absent is a blow for the team, but we have already shown that we can manage without him."
Matuidi conceded, though, that PSG will have to be at their very best to eliminate Jose Mourinho's men.
"It is vital to play a great game against Chelsea and do everything possible to progress," the midfielder warned.
"Chelsea are a team that does not lose many matches, so we must give our maximum to cause them problems.
"The atmosphere in the group is very good, though, and we are all focused."
Inter target move for Manchester City midfielder Javi Garcia
Inter are considering a summer move for Manchester City midfielder Javi Garcia, Goal understands.
The 27-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium this season, with Manuel Pellegrini preferring to start Fernandinho and Yaya Toure in the two holding midfield slots in his starting XI.
Inter see the former Benfica star, who has started just two league games since January 18, as a primary transfer target as they strive to get themselves back in the Serie A title picture following a period of change at the club.
Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is also viewed as a realistic target as owner Erick Thohir looks to make further progress in the transfer market having already secured the free-transfer signing of Nemanja Vidic from Manchester United.
Inter are, however, more confident of acquiring Garcia, who, despite still being considered an important member of the first-team squad by Pellegrini, could be allowed to leave for the right price.
Garcia's position at City is further weakened by the fact that the Premier League title contenders remain keen on luring Porto midfielder Fernando to the Etihad Stadium, which would further limit the Spaniard's chances of obtaining regular first-team action.
Walter Mazzarri's Inter could also face competition from Serie A rivals Napoli for the one-time Real Madrid man, while City will be reluctant to do business for less than the £16 million fee they paid to sign him from Benfica back in 2012.
The Nerazzurri's pursuit of Garcia further demonstrates their strategy to target players from the Premier League, with the likes of Bacary Sagna and Patrice Evra having been linked with a move to the Italian giants.
Edin Dzeko is another at the top of the club's wanted list, with Goal reporting back in March that City will allow him to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the 2013-14 campaign.
Inter are considering a summer move for Manchester City midfielder Javi Garcia, Goal understands.
The 27-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium this season, with Manuel Pellegrini preferring to start Fernandinho and Yaya Toure in the two holding midfield slots in his starting XI.
Inter see the former Benfica star, who has started just two league games since January 18, as a primary transfer target as they strive to get themselves back in the Serie A title picture following a period of change at the club.
Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is also viewed as a realistic target as owner Erick Thohir looks to make further progress in the transfer market having already secured the free-transfer signing of Nemanja Vidic from Manchester United.
Inter are, however, more confident of acquiring Garcia, who, despite still being considered an important member of the first-team squad by Pellegrini, could be allowed to leave for the right price.
Garcia's position at City is further weakened by the fact that the Premier League title contenders remain keen on luring Porto midfielder Fernando to the Etihad Stadium, which would further limit the Spaniard's chances of obtaining regular first-team action.
Walter Mazzarri's Inter could also face competition from Serie A rivals Napoli for the one-time Real Madrid man, while City will be reluctant to do business for less than the £16 million fee they paid to sign him from Benfica back in 2012.
The Nerazzurri's pursuit of Garcia further demonstrates their strategy to target players from the Premier League, with the likes of Bacary Sagna and Patrice Evra having been linked with a move to the Italian giants.
Edin Dzeko is another at the top of the club's wanted list, with Goal reporting back in March that City will allow him to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the 2013-14 campaign.
Arsenal returnee Ramsey rues 'sloppy' loss to Everton
Tottenham will replace Tim Sherwood as manager at the end of the season, Goal can confirm.
Spurs have taken the decision to make another managerial change just four months after the former England international replaced Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane on an 18-month contract.
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal is favourite to replace Sherwood after the World Cup, while Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is also a fan of Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino.
It is unknown whether Sherwood will remain at Tottenham in another capacity but he has previously suggested that he would refuse to act as a No.2 to another manager.
Van Gaal is the clear favourite to replace Sherwood having spoken openly about his desire to manage in the Premier League when he steps down as Netherlands coach after the World Cup in Brazil.
The 62-year-old Dutchman met with Levy following the dismissal of Villas-Boas but refused to split the Spurs job with his Netherlands duties.
Pochettino is expected to be granted an interview having impressed at Southampton both in terms of results and the team’s style of play.
The Argentine has a year left on his Southampton contract and has refused to sign a new deal, with key players including Luke Shaw and Adam Lallana expected to depart in the summer.
Sherwood has long feared losing his job and has paid the price for Tottenham’s almost certain failure to qualify for the Champions League, with the club seventh in the Premier League table ahead of Monday night’s clash against Southampton.
Tottenham will replace Tim Sherwood as manager at the end of the season, Goal can confirm.
Spurs have taken the decision to make another managerial change just four months after the former England international replaced Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane on an 18-month contract.
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal is favourite to replace Sherwood after the World Cup, while Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is also a fan of Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino.
It is unknown whether Sherwood will remain at Tottenham in another capacity but he has previously suggested that he would refuse to act as a No.2 to another manager.
Van Gaal is the clear favourite to replace Sherwood having spoken openly about his desire to manage in the Premier League when he steps down as Netherlands coach after the World Cup in Brazil.
The 62-year-old Dutchman met with Levy following the dismissal of Villas-Boas but refused to split the Spurs job with his Netherlands duties.
Pochettino is expected to be granted an interview having impressed at Southampton both in terms of results and the team’s style of play.
The Argentine has a year left on his Southampton contract and has refused to sign a new deal, with key players including Luke Shaw and Adam Lallana expected to depart in the summer.
Sherwood has long feared losing his job and has paid the price for Tottenham’s almost certain failure to qualify for the Champions League, with the club seventh in the Premier League table ahead of Monday night’s clash against Southampton.
Bale: More to Real Madrid than the 'BBC'
Gareth Bale insists that there is more to Real Madrid than their much-lauded 'BBC' strikeforce.
The winger has formed a sensational attacking triumvirate with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo since joining Los Blancos from Tottenham last summer for a world-record €100 million transfer fee.
The trio have contributed 58 Liga goals between them already this term but Bale says that it is unfair to suggest that Madrid's treble bid has been founded on the brilliance of the 'BBC' (Bale, Benzema and Cristiano).
“Obviously it is fantastic to play with great players like Ronaldo and Karim, but it's not just us three," the Wales international told Bwin.
"I think the whole team has played well throughout the season. It's great to play with everyone, I'm really enjoying it.
"Everyone here has impressed me and I've enjoyed every minute.
"It's amazing to be able to train with world-class players on a daily basis. It is helping me lift my game and makes everyone a better player.
"I love training everyday and I try to improve all the time as a player."
Bale also feels that despite the injury problems that have interrupted his debut campaign in Spain, he has found it relatively easy to adapt to La Liga.
“I don't think I've changed much," the 24-year-old mused.
"The style in Spain, in comparison with the Premiership, is based more in keeping possession, but my style of play hasn't changed much. I'm very comfortable here."
Bale has hit four goals in his last three appearances in all competitions for Madrid and will be hoping to continue his hot streak against Champions League quarter-final opponents Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night.
Carlo Ancelotti's men lead 3-0 from the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu but Bale insists that Los Blancos have no intention of sitting back and defending their lead at Signal Iduna Park.
“Last Wednesday's match at home was great," he enthused. "We played well and deserved to win, but it will be a different game in Dortmund.
"They'll come out fighting and we have to approach it like any other game, looking to win it and seal our place in the semi-finals.
“I've never played in Signal Iduna Park, but I've seen it on TV and I've heard people talk about it. They say the atmosphere is incredible.
"We're professionals and we know how to go about our business. We'll approach it like we always do and try to win the match as we always do."
Dortmund, of course, will be boosted by the availability of star striker Robert Lewandowski, who missed the first leg through suspension, but Bale is confident that Madrid will cope with the Poland international.
“He is a great player and has been showing that over the last few years, but we have to concentrate on our own job, like we did in the first leg, defending well," he reasoned.
"You can't do things any differently when you come up against other good attacking players.
"We have to defend well and I hope the team is at its best for this game."
Gareth Bale insists that there is more to Real Madrid than their much-lauded 'BBC' strikeforce.
The winger has formed a sensational attacking triumvirate with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo since joining Los Blancos from Tottenham last summer for a world-record €100 million transfer fee.
The trio have contributed 58 Liga goals between them already this term but Bale says that it is unfair to suggest that Madrid's treble bid has been founded on the brilliance of the 'BBC' (Bale, Benzema and Cristiano).
“Obviously it is fantastic to play with great players like Ronaldo and Karim, but it's not just us three," the Wales international told Bwin.
"I think the whole team has played well throughout the season. It's great to play with everyone, I'm really enjoying it.
"Everyone here has impressed me and I've enjoyed every minute.
"It's amazing to be able to train with world-class players on a daily basis. It is helping me lift my game and makes everyone a better player.
"I love training everyday and I try to improve all the time as a player."
Bale also feels that despite the injury problems that have interrupted his debut campaign in Spain, he has found it relatively easy to adapt to La Liga.
“I don't think I've changed much," the 24-year-old mused.
"The style in Spain, in comparison with the Premiership, is based more in keeping possession, but my style of play hasn't changed much. I'm very comfortable here."
Bale has hit four goals in his last three appearances in all competitions for Madrid and will be hoping to continue his hot streak against Champions League quarter-final opponents Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night.
Carlo Ancelotti's men lead 3-0 from the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu but Bale insists that Los Blancos have no intention of sitting back and defending their lead at Signal Iduna Park.
“Last Wednesday's match at home was great," he enthused. "We played well and deserved to win, but it will be a different game in Dortmund.
"They'll come out fighting and we have to approach it like any other game, looking to win it and seal our place in the semi-finals.
“I've never played in Signal Iduna Park, but I've seen it on TV and I've heard people talk about it. They say the atmosphere is incredible.
"We're professionals and we know how to go about our business. We'll approach it like we always do and try to win the match as we always do."
Dortmund, of course, will be boosted by the availability of star striker Robert Lewandowski, who missed the first leg through suspension, but Bale is confident that Madrid will cope with the Poland international.
“He is a great player and has been showing that over the last few years, but we have to concentrate on our own job, like we did in the first leg, defending well," he reasoned.
"You can't do things any differently when you come up against other good attacking players.
"We have to defend well and I hope the team is at its best for this game."
Eto'o trains alone ahead of Paris Saint-Germain clash
Samuel Eto'o trained alone as he bids to shake off a hamstring problem in time to feature for Chelsea against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday evening.
The striker, who has missed the Blues' last three matches since limping out of the 6-0 victory over Arsenal at Stamford Bridge last month, worked separately under the supervision of assistant first team coach Rui Faria.
Andre Schurrle, however, did take full part in training despite being substituted in Chelsea's win over Stoke City on Saturday and is expected to be available to face PSG.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho should also be able to call on Jon Obi Mikel, after the Nigerian took part in the morning session despite missing the game against the Potters with injury.
January signings Nemanja Matic and Mohamed Salah are cup-tied for Wednesday's game, while Ramires is suspended having been booked in the 3-1 first-leg loss at the Parc des Princes.
Samuel Eto'o trained alone as he bids to shake off a hamstring problem in time to feature for Chelsea against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday evening.
The striker, who has missed the Blues' last three matches since limping out of the 6-0 victory over Arsenal at Stamford Bridge last month, worked separately under the supervision of assistant first team coach Rui Faria.
Andre Schurrle, however, did take full part in training despite being substituted in Chelsea's win over Stoke City on Saturday and is expected to be available to face PSG.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho should also be able to call on Jon Obi Mikel, after the Nigerian took part in the morning session despite missing the game against the Potters with injury.
January signings Nemanja Matic and Mohamed Salah are cup-tied for Wednesday's game, while Ramires is suspended having been booked in the 3-1 first-leg loss at the Parc des Princes.
Xavi hits out at 'unjust' Barcelona transfer ban
Barcelona midfielder Xavi has hit out at Fifa for its "disproportionate and unjust" transfer ban.
Football's governing body slapped the Blaugrana with a suspension from activity in the next two transfer windows after identifying irregularities in the signings of 10 young players over recent seasons.
Xavi believes the punishment is excessive, but is confident that Barca's academy can provide enough talent to offset any lack of signings in the coming 14 months should their appeal be unsuccessful.
"It's disproportionate and unjust. We'll try to oppose it," he told a press conference on Monday.
"La Masia does a more than adequate job, it's part of our philosophy. Barca spends many years working properly with youngsters, we look after them.
"We're not isolated from what happens, but we try to stay calm in the dressing room. What happens outside helps to unite us."
Xavi also took a swipe at recent criticism of Sergio Busquets following the midfielder's controversial confrontation with Pepe during the Clasico last month.
Busquets was accused of stamping on the Real Madrid defender, with Spain team-mate Iker Casillas claiming he would give the midfielder "a slap" for his behaviour, and Xavi believes such remarks are unfair.
"We have no doubts over Busquet's action. They're being very unfair to him, even his team-mates in the national team.
"We don't have to defend him, the pictures defend him. It's obvious he doesn't stamp on Pepe."
Barcelona face Atletico Madrid on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie and Xavi has called on his side to "destroy" Diego Simeone's outfit.
"It's a final, a match of heads or tails," he added. "It's very difficult to create chances against Atletico. We have to win the game and that benefits us.
"In front of us are a team we have to destroy. We must try to take the lead and see how they react. We have to be protagonists, to dominate the ball to go on the attack."
Barcelona midfielder Xavi has hit out at Fifa for its "disproportionate and unjust" transfer ban.
Football's governing body slapped the Blaugrana with a suspension from activity in the next two transfer windows after identifying irregularities in the signings of 10 young players over recent seasons.
Xavi believes the punishment is excessive, but is confident that Barca's academy can provide enough talent to offset any lack of signings in the coming 14 months should their appeal be unsuccessful.
"It's disproportionate and unjust. We'll try to oppose it," he told a press conference on Monday.
"La Masia does a more than adequate job, it's part of our philosophy. Barca spends many years working properly with youngsters, we look after them.
"We're not isolated from what happens, but we try to stay calm in the dressing room. What happens outside helps to unite us."
Xavi also took a swipe at recent criticism of Sergio Busquets following the midfielder's controversial confrontation with Pepe during the Clasico last month.
Busquets was accused of stamping on the Real Madrid defender, with Spain team-mate Iker Casillas claiming he would give the midfielder "a slap" for his behaviour, and Xavi believes such remarks are unfair.
"We have no doubts over Busquet's action. They're being very unfair to him, even his team-mates in the national team.
"We don't have to defend him, the pictures defend him. It's obvious he doesn't stamp on Pepe."
Barcelona face Atletico Madrid on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie and Xavi has called on his side to "destroy" Diego Simeone's outfit.
"It's a final, a match of heads or tails," he added. "It's very difficult to create chances against Atletico. We have to win the game and that benefits us.
"In front of us are a team we have to destroy. We must try to take the lead and see how they react. We have to be protagonists, to dominate the ball to go on the attack."
Ballack: Germany and Spain on another level
Michael Ballack believes Germany and Spain are on "another level" to most international sides and will by vying for the World Cup this summer alongside hosts Brazil.
La Roja head to South America as the reigning world and double European champions, while Germany are considered favourites by many to end their 24-year wait for the global title.
Ballack believes the talent at Joachim Low's disposal makes Germany a standout candidate for glory this summer, but believes there are a handful of sides who will be challenging for the prize - including the hosts.
"They've had a few difficult years with the national team recently, there's no doubt of that: so much is always expected of Brazil teams. But at the Confederations Cup, they proved what they can produce at home. That's why they're one of the favourites for the trophy," the former Bayern Munich and Chelsea midfielder told Fifa.com.
"It's tough for anyone to be successful in South America. No European country has won a World Cup there and it's not going to be any easier for the European teams these days either. Along with Spain, though, Germany are a team on another level from most others. We'll have to wait and see if they can prove that again, but the talent is most definitely there.
"I'm just as excited to see how the other contenders perform, but Germany certainly deserve to be counted among the favourites.
"I'd also say Italy, a team that Germany always have problems against. With France, you'd have to see how they've come on by the start of the tournament, as they struggled in qualification. But South American countries like Argentina or Chile could also cause a surprise, as they're comfortable playing there and will feel like they're playing at home."
Ballack picked up a yellow card in the semi-final of World Cup 2002, meaning he missed the last time Germany reached the final of the tournament, and he admits the disappointment of the suspension was tough to take.
"When something like that happens, it's like you immediately have tunnel vision, like you can't quite process what's happened," he said. "You're obviously disappointed, but I celebrated with the rest of the team and I wanted them to win the final. It only dawns on you weeks, months or even years later, when you realise just how difficult it is to reach a World Cup final. If you don't play in a game like that, then you realise what you've missed out on.
"It was really bad luck for me, no question, but that's the nature of football. You have to be professional enough to be able to accept it, but at the moment when it happened, it was very tough to take."
Michael Ballack believes Germany and Spain are on "another level" to most international sides and will by vying for the World Cup this summer alongside hosts Brazil.
La Roja head to South America as the reigning world and double European champions, while Germany are considered favourites by many to end their 24-year wait for the global title.
Ballack believes the talent at Joachim Low's disposal makes Germany a standout candidate for glory this summer, but believes there are a handful of sides who will be challenging for the prize - including the hosts.
"They've had a few difficult years with the national team recently, there's no doubt of that: so much is always expected of Brazil teams. But at the Confederations Cup, they proved what they can produce at home. That's why they're one of the favourites for the trophy," the former Bayern Munich and Chelsea midfielder told Fifa.com.
"It's tough for anyone to be successful in South America. No European country has won a World Cup there and it's not going to be any easier for the European teams these days either. Along with Spain, though, Germany are a team on another level from most others. We'll have to wait and see if they can prove that again, but the talent is most definitely there.
"I'm just as excited to see how the other contenders perform, but Germany certainly deserve to be counted among the favourites.
"I'd also say Italy, a team that Germany always have problems against. With France, you'd have to see how they've come on by the start of the tournament, as they struggled in qualification. But South American countries like Argentina or Chile could also cause a surprise, as they're comfortable playing there and will feel like they're playing at home."
Ballack picked up a yellow card in the semi-final of World Cup 2002, meaning he missed the last time Germany reached the final of the tournament, and he admits the disappointment of the suspension was tough to take.
"When something like that happens, it's like you immediately have tunnel vision, like you can't quite process what's happened," he said. "You're obviously disappointed, but I celebrated with the rest of the team and I wanted them to win the final. It only dawns on you weeks, months or even years later, when you realise just how difficult it is to reach a World Cup final. If you don't play in a game like that, then you realise what you've missed out on.
"It was really bad luck for me, no question, but that's the nature of football. You have to be professional enough to be able to accept it, but at the moment when it happened, it was very tough to take."
Rooney winning Bayern fitness battle
Wayne Rooney is winning his battle to shake off a toe injury in time to face Bayern Munich in Wednesday's crucial Champions League quarter-final clash.
The Manchester United striker was absent from the 4-0 triumph over Newcastle on Saturday after picking up a knock in the first-leg 1-1 draw with the Bundesliga champions.
Scans, however, revealed no serious damage and the frontman's return to light training over the weekend has boosted manager David Moyes's hopes of being able to call on his star striker at the Allianz Arena.
A source told Goal: "Wayne has been doing some light running and gym work and there is an expectancy that he will be fit.
"The manager and staff decided not to risk him against Newcastle in the hope that the extra few days would give him a better chance of being fit, and his chances are looking better than 70 per cent at this stage."
Moyes told MUTV last week: "Wayne's got a badly bruised toe... [and] it could be a problem for the Munich game on Wednesday.
"We need to monitor it. We'll get him treatment all over the weekend and see if we can speed it up."
That treatment looks to have worked, which will be a welcome boost to a United side already stripped of striker Robin van Persie due to a knee injury.
Rooney has 17 goals in all competitions this season and the England striker will likely need to be on top form if United are to knock out tournament-favourites Bayern, who have an imperious record on home soil.
The Bavarians lost 1-0 away at Augsburg on the weekend, ending an unbeaten streak that stretched an incredible 53 Bundesliga games, but are expected to make wholesale changes for the visit of United having rested a number of their stellar names at SGL-Arena.
Moyes' side face an uphill battle to win through the last-eight clash, after Bayern midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger's strike ensured the tie would be level at 1-1 going into the return meeting in Munich.
Wayne Rooney is winning his battle to shake off a toe injury in time to face Bayern Munich in Wednesday's crucial Champions League quarter-final clash.
The Manchester United striker was absent from the 4-0 triumph over Newcastle on Saturday after picking up a knock in the first-leg 1-1 draw with the Bundesliga champions.
Scans, however, revealed no serious damage and the frontman's return to light training over the weekend has boosted manager David Moyes's hopes of being able to call on his star striker at the Allianz Arena.
A source told Goal: "Wayne has been doing some light running and gym work and there is an expectancy that he will be fit.
"The manager and staff decided not to risk him against Newcastle in the hope that the extra few days would give him a better chance of being fit, and his chances are looking better than 70 per cent at this stage."
Moyes told MUTV last week: "Wayne's got a badly bruised toe... [and] it could be a problem for the Munich game on Wednesday.
"We need to monitor it. We'll get him treatment all over the weekend and see if we can speed it up."
That treatment looks to have worked, which will be a welcome boost to a United side already stripped of striker Robin van Persie due to a knee injury.
Rooney has 17 goals in all competitions this season and the England striker will likely need to be on top form if United are to knock out tournament-favourites Bayern, who have an imperious record on home soil.
The Bavarians lost 1-0 away at Augsburg on the weekend, ending an unbeaten streak that stretched an incredible 53 Bundesliga games, but are expected to make wholesale changes for the visit of United having rested a number of their stellar names at SGL-Arena.
Moyes' side face an uphill battle to win through the last-eight clash, after Bayern midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger's strike ensured the tie would be level at 1-1 going into the return meeting in Munich.
Evra expects to be fit for Bayern clash despite knock
Manchester United defender Patrice Evra expects to be fit to face Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg despite picking up a knock against Newcastle.
The French full-back, who has also been struggling with a knee problem, was withdrawn in the second half of Saturday's comprehensive 4-0 victory over the Magpies but is hopeful he can make the starting XI at the Allianz Arena.
"I think I will be fit," Evra told the club's official website. "I received a knock and I was injured as well before Aston Villa with my knee so I will try my best to be fit.
"Sometimes you have to play your best and be honest with yourself and your team-mates. If you are ready to play, you have to give everything. No excuses. If you play a bad game, you can’t say it was because you were injured."
Evra missed the first leg against Bayern through suspension but is now eagerly awaiting the away leg as United bid to "surprise everyone", while he also praised Alexander Buttner for coping so well in his absence.
"I was really frustrated to not play in such a big game [the first leg] but I though Alex did a good job," the defender continued.
"I was so pleased with the performance of the lads and now we must make sure we pull off a shock because Bayern are favourites for this game.
"It is not often since I have played for Manchester United that we are not the favourites but, sometimes, you have to accept they are favourites and let’s surprise everyone."
Evra also admitted he has seen parallels between United's lacklustre season and Chelsea's Champions League-winning campaign two years ago, with both sides struggling domestically but flourishing in Europe.
"It was funny because all season reminded me of the Chelsea season [when they won the Champions League in 2012] when they were not playing well in the league," he added.
"I keep this in my mind. I am not saying we are going to do the same but sometimes you have to be positive so why not? You have to believe."
Manchester United defender Patrice Evra expects to be fit to face Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg despite picking up a knock against Newcastle.
The French full-back, who has also been struggling with a knee problem, was withdrawn in the second half of Saturday's comprehensive 4-0 victory over the Magpies but is hopeful he can make the starting XI at the Allianz Arena.
"I think I will be fit," Evra told the club's official website. "I received a knock and I was injured as well before Aston Villa with my knee so I will try my best to be fit.
"Sometimes you have to play your best and be honest with yourself and your team-mates. If you are ready to play, you have to give everything. No excuses. If you play a bad game, you can’t say it was because you were injured."
Evra missed the first leg against Bayern through suspension but is now eagerly awaiting the away leg as United bid to "surprise everyone", while he also praised Alexander Buttner for coping so well in his absence.
"I was really frustrated to not play in such a big game [the first leg] but I though Alex did a good job," the defender continued.
"I was so pleased with the performance of the lads and now we must make sure we pull off a shock because Bayern are favourites for this game.
"It is not often since I have played for Manchester United that we are not the favourites but, sometimes, you have to accept they are favourites and let’s surprise everyone."
Evra also admitted he has seen parallels between United's lacklustre season and Chelsea's Champions League-winning campaign two years ago, with both sides struggling domestically but flourishing in Europe.
"It was funny because all season reminded me of the Chelsea season [when they won the Champions League in 2012] when they were not playing well in the league," he added.
"I keep this in my mind. I am not saying we are going to do the same but sometimes you have to be positive so why not? You have to believe."
Benzema eyes Champions League final clash with PSG
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema says he would love to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final this season.
Los Blancos are in pole position to reach their fourth consecutive semi-final of the competition after their resounding 3-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-final first leg last week.
PSG, meanwhile, will take a 3-1 advantage over Chelsea to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, and Benzema admits he would relish the chance to face Laurent Blanc's men in the final in Lisbon should both sides continue their impressive continental campaigns.
"Real Madrid against PSG," he told Uefa.com when asked what would be his dream final. "Why? Because Madrid are my team and Paris because they are a French team.
"We've played three consecutive semi-finals. This year we are doing well, we still have a few games to play to reach the final, but we are getting closer to it."
Madrid face Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday at 20:45 CET.
Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema says he would love to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final this season.
Los Blancos are in pole position to reach their fourth consecutive semi-final of the competition after their resounding 3-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-final first leg last week.
PSG, meanwhile, will take a 3-1 advantage over Chelsea to Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, and Benzema admits he would relish the chance to face Laurent Blanc's men in the final in Lisbon should both sides continue their impressive continental campaigns.
"Real Madrid against PSG," he told Uefa.com when asked what would be his dream final. "Why? Because Madrid are my team and Paris because they are a French team.
"We've played three consecutive semi-finals. This year we are doing well, we still have a few games to play to reach the final, but we are getting closer to it."
Madrid face Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday at 20:45 CET.
Pellegrini vows Man City will play to win at Liverpool
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini says his side will play to win when they face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The Reds go into the game four points ahead of their title rivals but having played two games more than the Chilean’s side.
While Pellegrini knows a draw would set his side up to take top spot from Liverpool, he insists City will travel to Merseyside aiming to bring all three points back to the Etihad Stadium.
“Maybe I am wrong, but I always think in the same way as a manager: if you play to draw you will lose,” he told reporters.
“So we are going to play to win. Of course after the game if we couldn’t win the game and we draw it’s a good result, but we are not going to play against Liverpool thinking we must draw. We don’t know how to play in that way.”
Pellegrini also lavished praise on Liverpool and their attacking approach, which has seen them hit 90 Premier League goals in 33 games.
“I am very happy for football. They play attractive football, creative football,” he added
“That’s why I think Liverpool have a lot of merits in the year they are doing so far, because they are an attractive team and they always score.
“Maybe I also am wrong, but I prefer important teams, big teams, than those that just want to win 1-0 and give all the possession of the ball to the other team, score one goal and always defend during 90 minutes.”
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini says his side will play to win when they face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
The Reds go into the game four points ahead of their title rivals but having played two games more than the Chilean’s side.
While Pellegrini knows a draw would set his side up to take top spot from Liverpool, he insists City will travel to Merseyside aiming to bring all three points back to the Etihad Stadium.
“Maybe I am wrong, but I always think in the same way as a manager: if you play to draw you will lose,” he told reporters.
“So we are going to play to win. Of course after the game if we couldn’t win the game and we draw it’s a good result, but we are not going to play against Liverpool thinking we must draw. We don’t know how to play in that way.”
Pellegrini also lavished praise on Liverpool and their attacking approach, which has seen them hit 90 Premier League goals in 33 games.
“I am very happy for football. They play attractive football, creative football,” he added
“That’s why I think Liverpool have a lot of merits in the year they are doing so far, because they are an attractive team and they always score.
“Maybe I also am wrong, but I prefer important teams, big teams, than those that just want to win 1-0 and give all the possession of the ball to the other team, score one goal and always defend during 90 minutes.”
Juan Mata says Manchester United are "full of confidence" ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash with Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.
The 25-year-old is ineligible for the Red Devils after representing Chelsea earlier in the season, but is hopeful of another English side returning from Bavaria unbeaten, following Manchester City and Arsenal’s exploits.
After opening his account the previous weekend, Mata scored twice as United beat Newcastle on Saturday and the club-record signing highlighted the importance of momentum as the team prepare to travel to Germany.
"It's a key victory to try to climb the table and go to Germany full of confidence," Mata wrote on club's official website. "This victory gives us a lot of energy for our game in Munich on Wednesday.
"I'll be supporting from home, in front of the TV, aware that the Allianz Arena is one of the toughest stadiums in Europe ... but also aware that we are Manchester United and I'm sure we can make it through!"
Mata is delighted to be finding his feet at his new club and says he is enjoying his football again after struggles for United and himself personally this season.
"I scored and enjoyed on the pitch again," he wrote. "I wish the streak goes on until the end of the season.
"The truth is, after a game like Saturday's, I realise once again how nice football can be, and how much you enjoy the few days following a victory and a good performance."
Ronaldo a serious doubt for Dortmund clash
Cristiano Ronaldo is a serious doubt for the second-leg of Real Madrid's Champions League quarter-final clash with Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday after the forward limped off of training on Monday.
The Portuguese star left the training ground after just 20 minutes on Monday with pain in the patellar tendon in his left knee, the same injury he suffered in the 3-0 win in the first-leg against the Bundesliga giants and also kept him out of his side's fixture against Real Sociedad at the weekend.
Ronaldo was treated by the club's physiotherapist immediately after leaving the field and, while the club have not officially ruled him out of Tuesday's match, Carlo Ancelotti did insist earlier that he would not feature unless he was "100 per cent" fit.
"Regarding Cristiano, he feels that he is at 100 per cent, so we are confident that he will feature," the former AC Milan boss told reporters beforehand. "We will not risk him, though.
"Cristiano always wants to play and I want him to play. But he is a professional and knows when he can't."
With a three-goal lead in hand, Madrid appear to have one foot in the semi-finals.
However, Ancelotti is taking nothing for granted, primarily because Dortmund will be buoyed by the return of star striker Robert Lewandowski from suspension.
"We are close to reaching the semis," Ancelotti acknowledged. "It's the biggest motivation you can have.
"But Lewandowski returning makes this a different game. His presence lifts his fellow players."
Lewandowski scored all of Dortmund's goals in their 4-1 first-leg victory over Madrid in last year's semi-final tie between the two sides.
Cristiano Ronaldo is a serious doubt for the second-leg of Real Madrid's Champions League quarter-final clash with Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday after the forward limped off of training on Monday.
The Portuguese star left the training ground after just 20 minutes on Monday with pain in the patellar tendon in his left knee, the same injury he suffered in the 3-0 win in the first-leg against the Bundesliga giants and also kept him out of his side's fixture against Real Sociedad at the weekend.
Ronaldo was treated by the club's physiotherapist immediately after leaving the field and, while the club have not officially ruled him out of Tuesday's match, Carlo Ancelotti did insist earlier that he would not feature unless he was "100 per cent" fit.
"Regarding Cristiano, he feels that he is at 100 per cent, so we are confident that he will feature," the former AC Milan boss told reporters beforehand. "We will not risk him, though.
"Cristiano always wants to play and I want him to play. But he is a professional and knows when he can't."
With a three-goal lead in hand, Madrid appear to have one foot in the semi-finals.
However, Ancelotti is taking nothing for granted, primarily because Dortmund will be buoyed by the return of star striker Robert Lewandowski from suspension.
"We are close to reaching the semis," Ancelotti acknowledged. "It's the biggest motivation you can have.
"But Lewandowski returning makes this a different game. His presence lifts his fellow players."
Lewandowski scored all of Dortmund's goals in their 4-1 first-leg victory over Madrid in last year's semi-final tie between the two sides.
Evans makes comeback in Manchester United Under-21s game
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans stepped up his recovery from injury by playing over an hour for the club's Under-21 side at Old Trafford on Monday.
Evans has missed 12 first-team matches with a calf injury picked up during United's 2-1 Premier League loss at Stoke City on February 1.
He played 65 minutes for Warren Joyce's youth side, who beat Aston Villa 3-0 in front of manager David Moyes and first-team coach Phil Neville.
Highly-rated 18-year-old striker James Wilson opened the scoring two days after being named among the substitutes for the senior side's 4-0 win at Newcastle.
Wilson did not get off the bench at St James' Park but ensured he will stay in Moyes' thoughts by firing home a left-footed strike from distance.
Joe Rothwell and Saidy Janko completed the scoring, before Evans was replaced by Donald Love after the hour mark.
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans stepped up his recovery from injury by playing over an hour for the club's Under-21 side at Old Trafford on Monday.
Evans has missed 12 first-team matches with a calf injury picked up during United's 2-1 Premier League loss at Stoke City on February 1.
He played 65 minutes for Warren Joyce's youth side, who beat Aston Villa 3-0 in front of manager David Moyes and first-team coach Phil Neville.
Highly-rated 18-year-old striker James Wilson opened the scoring two days after being named among the substitutes for the senior side's 4-0 win at Newcastle.
Wilson did not get off the bench at St James' Park but ensured he will stay in Moyes' thoughts by firing home a left-footed strike from distance.
Joe Rothwell and Saidy Janko completed the scoring, before Evans was replaced by Donald Love after the hour mark.
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