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Elche 1 Atletico Madrid 1: Simeone's men held by third-tier hosts
LaLiga giants Atletico Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw in the away first leg of their last-32 Copa del Rey tie with third-tier Elche on Wednesday.
Diego Simeone rested stars including Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Jan Oblak and Diego Godin ahead of Saturday's league game against Villarreal and his replacements failed to get the job done.
Atletico started well, however, and took only 17 minutes to break the deadlock, Thomas Partey beating goalkeeper Guillermo Vallejo with a fine header after the midfielder was picked out at the back post by Jose Gimenez.
The visitors, who benched Saul Niguez against the Spain international's hometown team, wasted many opportunities to extend their lead and Elche promptly levelled shortly after half-time, Lolo Pla converting a penalty he won himself by drawing a foul from Lucas Hernandez.
Luciano Vietto's finishing was particularly poor, the forward hitting the post with a fine first-half chance, and hosts Elche could even have won it after building sustained pressure late in the match.Elche had lost their last two league games but Vicente Mir's team will travel to the Wanda Metropolitano next month seeking another famous result.
Despite making nine changes from their 1-0 win at Celta Vigo last time out, Atletico went close to opening the scoring almost immediately, but Sime Vrsaljko's fizzing right-wing cross was turned wide of the near post by Fernando Torres. Nicolas Gaitan then whipped a shot just over the angle after great work from Vietto set up debutant Sergio Gonzalez to deliver a low cross.
But Elche could not keep Atleti out much longer and the opener duly arrived.
After Elche failed to clear their lines, Gimenez delivered a sublime cross to the back post, with Thomas' header bouncing into the ground and into Vallejo's top-right corner.
The hosts responded strongly, though, and Miguel Angel Moya had to dive to his left to keep out a drive from Javi Flores after Pla's neat backheel created an opening.
Vietto went close to adding to Atletico's lead when he struck the foot of the post after racing on to a loose Elche pass, before Vallejo brilliantly saved a header from Torres shortly before half time.And all those wasted chances proved costly when Elche scored a penalty seven minutes after the restart, which was awarded after Hernandez lunged in from behind to stop Pla's brilliant 30-yard driving run.
Pla confidently sent Moya the wrong way from the spot to level the tie but he then limped off with an injury, while Simeone called for Saul, who had been presented with an Elche shirt on the pitch before the game.Torres sent Vietto through again just after the hour mark, but the striker, who could have had a hat-trick, sent his chipped finish wide.
It was then Elche who dominated the rest of the contest, with Atletico unable to make the gulf in class between the sides count, and Simeone's men will need to be better in next month's second leg to avoid an upset.
LaLiga giants Atletico Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw in the away first leg of their last-32 Copa del Rey tie with third-tier Elche on Wednesday.
Diego Simeone rested stars including Antoine Griezmann, Koke, Jan Oblak and Diego Godin ahead of Saturday's league game against Villarreal and his replacements failed to get the job done.
Atletico started well, however, and took only 17 minutes to break the deadlock, Thomas Partey beating goalkeeper Guillermo Vallejo with a fine header after the midfielder was picked out at the back post by Jose Gimenez.
The visitors, who benched Saul Niguez against the Spain international's hometown team, wasted many opportunities to extend their lead and Elche promptly levelled shortly after half-time, Lolo Pla converting a penalty he won himself by drawing a foul from Lucas Hernandez.
Luciano Vietto's finishing was particularly poor, the forward hitting the post with a fine first-half chance, and hosts Elche could even have won it after building sustained pressure late in the match.Elche had lost their last two league games but Vicente Mir's team will travel to the Wanda Metropolitano next month seeking another famous result.
Despite making nine changes from their 1-0 win at Celta Vigo last time out, Atletico went close to opening the scoring almost immediately, but Sime Vrsaljko's fizzing right-wing cross was turned wide of the near post by Fernando Torres. Nicolas Gaitan then whipped a shot just over the angle after great work from Vietto set up debutant Sergio Gonzalez to deliver a low cross.
But Elche could not keep Atleti out much longer and the opener duly arrived.
After Elche failed to clear their lines, Gimenez delivered a sublime cross to the back post, with Thomas' header bouncing into the ground and into Vallejo's top-right corner.
The hosts responded strongly, though, and Miguel Angel Moya had to dive to his left to keep out a drive from Javi Flores after Pla's neat backheel created an opening.
Vietto went close to adding to Atletico's lead when he struck the foot of the post after racing on to a loose Elche pass, before Vallejo brilliantly saved a header from Torres shortly before half time.And all those wasted chances proved costly when Elche scored a penalty seven minutes after the restart, which was awarded after Hernandez lunged in from behind to stop Pla's brilliant 30-yard driving run.
Pla confidently sent Moya the wrong way from the spot to level the tie but he then limped off with an injury, while Simeone called for Saul, who had been presented with an Elche shirt on the pitch before the game.Torres sent Vietto through again just after the hour mark, but the striker, who could have had a hat-trick, sent his chipped finish wide.
It was then Elche who dominated the rest of the contest, with Atletico unable to make the gulf in class between the sides count, and Simeone's men will need to be better in next month's second leg to avoid an upset.
Tottenham 2 West Ham 3: Stunning comeback sees Hammers reach last eight
West Ham produced the most unlikely of second-half comebacks to beat Tottenham 3-2 at Wembley and book their place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals.
A dominant Spurs, without the rested Harry Kane, raced in to a two-goal half-time lead thanks to strikes from Moussa Sissoko and Dele Alli to seemingly leave Slaven Bilic's position hanging by a thread.Bilic's players, though, produced a stirring second-half fightback, scoring three times in a stunning 15-minute spell to complete a remarkable turnaround.
Two quick-fire goals from Andre Ayew pulled the Hammers level before Angelo Ogbonna crashed a header in to seal a memorable win that provides their under-fire manager with a timely boost.
Bilic will now go into the Saturday's pivotal away clash with Crystal Palace full of confidence, while Tottenham will need to pick themselves up for a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford, with one of their routes to silverware now gone.
Under-pressure Bilic made nine changes to the side that was thumped 3-0 by Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, but his new-look outfit found themselves behind after just six minutes as a flowing Tottenham move carved their defence wide open.
Fernando Llorente's flicked pass released Son Heung-min down the right and after checking inside the South Korea international fed an incisive pass into the path of the marauding Sissoko, who stroked a first-time shot past Adrian into the bottom corner.
West Ham's goalkeeper then produced a smart save in the to deny Spurs a second, reacting well to palm away Alli's thumping back-post header from Kieran Trippier's cross.
Andy Carroll, returning to action after his red card against Burnley a fortnight ago, cut an isolated figure at the head of West Ham's attack and had just a scuffed half-volley to show for his efforts in the first half hour.
Spurs scored the second goal their superiority deserved after 37 minutes, although there was more than a hint of good fortune about it.Son teed up Alli just inside the penalty area and the England international's effort took a significant deflection off Declan Rice's head to find the bottom corner, with Adrian helpless.
The visitors showed more attacking intent at the start of the second period and were rewarded for their fresh approach 10 minutes after the restart.Edimilson Fernandes drilled in a crisp half-volley which Michel Vorm could only parry right into the path of Ayew, who gleefully prodded home from close range.
The Ghana international then equalised just five minutes later, beating Toby Alderweireld to Manuel Lanzini's cross and clipping his finish into the roof of Vorm's net.West Ham's hard work was very nearly undone almost immediately, but Alli's acrobatic effort from Sissoko's cross was repelled by Adrian.
The improbable comeback was then completed at the other end in the 70th minute as Ogbonna stole a march on his marker to send a thumping header from Lanzini's corner past the static Vorm. And that proved enough for West Ham to dump their rivals out of the competition, as Mauricio Pochettino's stunned side failed to come close to an equaliser in the closing stages.
West Ham produced the most unlikely of second-half comebacks to beat Tottenham 3-2 at Wembley and book their place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals.
A dominant Spurs, without the rested Harry Kane, raced in to a two-goal half-time lead thanks to strikes from Moussa Sissoko and Dele Alli to seemingly leave Slaven Bilic's position hanging by a thread.Bilic's players, though, produced a stirring second-half fightback, scoring three times in a stunning 15-minute spell to complete a remarkable turnaround.
Two quick-fire goals from Andre Ayew pulled the Hammers level before Angelo Ogbonna crashed a header in to seal a memorable win that provides their under-fire manager with a timely boost.
Bilic will now go into the Saturday's pivotal away clash with Crystal Palace full of confidence, while Tottenham will need to pick themselves up for a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford, with one of their routes to silverware now gone.
Under-pressure Bilic made nine changes to the side that was thumped 3-0 by Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, but his new-look outfit found themselves behind after just six minutes as a flowing Tottenham move carved their defence wide open.
Fernando Llorente's flicked pass released Son Heung-min down the right and after checking inside the South Korea international fed an incisive pass into the path of the marauding Sissoko, who stroked a first-time shot past Adrian into the bottom corner.
West Ham's goalkeeper then produced a smart save in the to deny Spurs a second, reacting well to palm away Alli's thumping back-post header from Kieran Trippier's cross.
Andy Carroll, returning to action after his red card against Burnley a fortnight ago, cut an isolated figure at the head of West Ham's attack and had just a scuffed half-volley to show for his efforts in the first half hour.
Spurs scored the second goal their superiority deserved after 37 minutes, although there was more than a hint of good fortune about it.Son teed up Alli just inside the penalty area and the England international's effort took a significant deflection off Declan Rice's head to find the bottom corner, with Adrian helpless.
The visitors showed more attacking intent at the start of the second period and were rewarded for their fresh approach 10 minutes after the restart.Edimilson Fernandes drilled in a crisp half-volley which Michel Vorm could only parry right into the path of Ayew, who gleefully prodded home from close range.
The Ghana international then equalised just five minutes later, beating Toby Alderweireld to Manuel Lanzini's cross and clipping his finish into the roof of Vorm's net.West Ham's hard work was very nearly undone almost immediately, but Alli's acrobatic effort from Sissoko's cross was repelled by Adrian.
The improbable comeback was then completed at the other end in the 70th minute as Ogbonna stole a march on his marker to send a thumping header from Lanzini's corner past the static Vorm. And that proved enough for West Ham to dump their rivals out of the competition, as Mauricio Pochettino's stunned side failed to come close to an equaliser in the closing stages.
Juventus 4 SPAL 1: Bernardeschi, Dybala brilliance inspires champions to victory
Juventus kept the pressure on Serie A leaders Napoli with a 4-1 win over struggling SPAL at the Allianz Stadium on Wednesday.Spectacular first-half goals from Federico Bernardeschi and Paulo Dybala set the champions on course for back-to-back league wins, before Gonzalo Higuain and Juan Cuadrado struck after the break.
Alberto Paloschi had given SPAL hope of a comeback by making it 2-1 but they saw a potential equaliser disallowed for offside and have now picked up just one point from their last eight games to sit second-from-bottom of the table.
Bernardeschi's stunning volley put Juve ahead early on and another fine free-kick from Dybala doubled the lead after only 22 minutes, as Massimiliano Allegri's side threatened a repeat of the goalscoring form they showed in the 6-2 thrashing of Udinese last time out.
SPAL recovered from their early jitters to make life more difficult but their heads dropped again when Higuain and Cuadrado scored in quick succession not long after the disallowed goal, and only a belated offside call denied the Argentina striker what would have been his 100th Serie A goal late on.
There was even a chance for Claudio Marchisio to make his first appearance since the opening-day win over Cagliari, the midfielder having recovered at last from a knee injury, as Juve cruised to the win that keeps them three points behind Napoli.
SPAL did well to withstand Juve's early pressure until Bernardeschi broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. Douglas Costa cushioned Dybala's low cross into the winger's path and he unleashed a superb volley that sailed into the top-left corner of the net.
The move was Dybala's only real bright spot in a quiet opening but, not to be undone by Bernardeschi, the Argentina star doubled his side's lead after 22 minutes with a sublime free-kick from 25 yards out that curled high into the right of Alfred Gomis' goal.
The champions were in control until Paloschi halved the deficit 12 minutes before the break, the striker reacting well to prod Federico Mattiello's mishit half-volley into the net from six yards out.
SPAL started the second half with the confidence with which they finished the first and they thought they had equalised through Marios Oikonomou, only for the goal to be ruled out for an offside infringement by Paloschi after VAR consultation.
Any threat of a fightback was effectively killed off with 25 minutes remaining, however, as Higuain smashed the ball left-footed into the bottom-right corner for his fourth league goal of the season after SPAL had failed to clear the area following a corner.Juve could finally relax and they soon added a fourth, the lively Costa crossing for substitute Cuadrado to head home at the far post, despite Gomis' efforts to parry the ball away.
Higuain was denied a landmark goal late on after a VAR check, but Allegri's side eased to a win that keeps them third third, behind Inter and Napoli, ahead of Saturday's trip to San Siro to take on AC Milan.
Juventus kept the pressure on Serie A leaders Napoli with a 4-1 win over struggling SPAL at the Allianz Stadium on Wednesday.Spectacular first-half goals from Federico Bernardeschi and Paulo Dybala set the champions on course for back-to-back league wins, before Gonzalo Higuain and Juan Cuadrado struck after the break.
Alberto Paloschi had given SPAL hope of a comeback by making it 2-1 but they saw a potential equaliser disallowed for offside and have now picked up just one point from their last eight games to sit second-from-bottom of the table.
Bernardeschi's stunning volley put Juve ahead early on and another fine free-kick from Dybala doubled the lead after only 22 minutes, as Massimiliano Allegri's side threatened a repeat of the goalscoring form they showed in the 6-2 thrashing of Udinese last time out.
SPAL recovered from their early jitters to make life more difficult but their heads dropped again when Higuain and Cuadrado scored in quick succession not long after the disallowed goal, and only a belated offside call denied the Argentina striker what would have been his 100th Serie A goal late on.
There was even a chance for Claudio Marchisio to make his first appearance since the opening-day win over Cagliari, the midfielder having recovered at last from a knee injury, as Juve cruised to the win that keeps them three points behind Napoli.
SPAL did well to withstand Juve's early pressure until Bernardeschi broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. Douglas Costa cushioned Dybala's low cross into the winger's path and he unleashed a superb volley that sailed into the top-left corner of the net.
The move was Dybala's only real bright spot in a quiet opening but, not to be undone by Bernardeschi, the Argentina star doubled his side's lead after 22 minutes with a sublime free-kick from 25 yards out that curled high into the right of Alfred Gomis' goal.
The champions were in control until Paloschi halved the deficit 12 minutes before the break, the striker reacting well to prod Federico Mattiello's mishit half-volley into the net from six yards out.
SPAL started the second half with the confidence with which they finished the first and they thought they had equalised through Marios Oikonomou, only for the goal to be ruled out for an offside infringement by Paloschi after VAR consultation.
Any threat of a fightback was effectively killed off with 25 minutes remaining, however, as Higuain smashed the ball left-footed into the bottom-right corner for his fourth league goal of the season after SPAL had failed to clear the area following a corner.Juve could finally relax and they soon added a fourth, the lively Costa crossing for substitute Cuadrado to head home at the far post, despite Gomis' efforts to parry the ball away.
Higuain was denied a landmark goal late on after a VAR check, but Allegri's side eased to a win that keeps them third third, behind Inter and Napoli, ahead of Saturday's trip to San Siro to take on AC Milan.
RB Leipzig 1 Bayern Munich 1 (aet, 4-5 pens): Ulreich denies Werner on night of spot-kick drama
There was penalty drama aplenty at the Red Bull Arena on Wednesday as Bayern Munich reached the last 16 of the DFB-Pokal thanks to a 5-4 shoot-out win over 10-man RB Leipzig.
After nine successful kicks, Timo Werner - who started on the bench - saw his weak penalty to the right saved low down by Sven Ulreich, who had come in for some criticism since replacing the injured Manuel Neuer as Bayern's number one.
The shoot-out followed a highly controversial 1-1 draw, which saw referee Felix Zwayer change his mind in awarding Leipzig a first-half penalty before giving the home side a soft spot-kick in the second period, either side of Naby Keita's dismissal for two cautions.
Emil Forsberg converted from 12 yards but Bayern were soon level through Thiago Alcantara and after the extra 30 minutes produced no further goals, the visitors kept their cool to join holders Borussia Dortmund in the draw.
Leipzig had been left furious in the opening half as Arturo Vidal, on his 100th Bayern appearance, scythed down Forsberg with contact continuing into the area. Zwayer originally pointed to the spot but, with the VAR system not in use, spoke to his assistant and instead signalled for a free-kick on the edge of the box.
After Keita was dismissed for the third time this season shortly after the interval, it was Bayern's turn to feel aggrieved with Zwayer, who gave a penalty after Yussuf Poulsen fell theatrically under Jerome Boateng's challenge.Forsberg put Leipzig ahead but Thiago's header soon pegged them back and, despite wasting a host of chances in extra time, Jupp Heynckes' side retained their composure when it mattered most.
Leipzig had thrown away a 4-2 lead to lose 5-4 to Bayern in May, and this contest was equally thrilling, though not quite as goal-laden – with another course of this developing rivalry set to be served up in the Bundesliga on Saturday.The first contentious moment arrived in the 34th minute as Zwayer reneged on his initial decision to penalise Vidal's brainless tackle and awarded a free-kick, from which Forsberg clipped the top of the crossbar to add further insult to injury.
Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick stormed onto the field at half-time with phone in hand, seemingly ready to show the referee a replay of the incident until he was confronted by an angry Mats Hummels but the hosts could have few complaints with Zwayer in the 53rd minute as Keita picked up a second yellow for a cynical tug on Robert Lewandowski.
Bayern looked to swiftly capitalise on their man advantage as Kingsley Coman was kept out by Peter Gulacsi at his near post before Lewandowski broke clear and fired agonisingly wide.
But just as Bayern looked primed to put Leipzig away, Poulsen took a tumble under minimal contact from Boateng and Zwayer pointed to the spot immediately, Forsberg doing the rest.The lead lasted just five minutes, however, as Boateng clipped a sumptuous pass over the Leipzig defence for Thiago, who sent a free header beyond Gulacsi.
Thiago stung the palms of the keeper with a fierce volley, Bernardo blocking Lewandowski's rebound and in the first period of extra time, Gulacsi made a superb double save to thwart Thiago and Joshua Kimmich.Bayern introduced the unheralded Kwasi Okyere Wriedt and he almost marked his debut in style as a header crashed off the bar before Lewandowski saw a volley tipped over by Gulacsi.
The Poland forward headed over from point-blank range and that was the last real chance as Ulreich proved Bayern's shoot-out saviour in a contest fittingly decided from 12 yards when Werner's feeble effort followed nine perfect penalties.
There was penalty drama aplenty at the Red Bull Arena on Wednesday as Bayern Munich reached the last 16 of the DFB-Pokal thanks to a 5-4 shoot-out win over 10-man RB Leipzig.
After nine successful kicks, Timo Werner - who started on the bench - saw his weak penalty to the right saved low down by Sven Ulreich, who had come in for some criticism since replacing the injured Manuel Neuer as Bayern's number one.
The shoot-out followed a highly controversial 1-1 draw, which saw referee Felix Zwayer change his mind in awarding Leipzig a first-half penalty before giving the home side a soft spot-kick in the second period, either side of Naby Keita's dismissal for two cautions.
Emil Forsberg converted from 12 yards but Bayern were soon level through Thiago Alcantara and after the extra 30 minutes produced no further goals, the visitors kept their cool to join holders Borussia Dortmund in the draw.
Leipzig had been left furious in the opening half as Arturo Vidal, on his 100th Bayern appearance, scythed down Forsberg with contact continuing into the area. Zwayer originally pointed to the spot but, with the VAR system not in use, spoke to his assistant and instead signalled for a free-kick on the edge of the box.
After Keita was dismissed for the third time this season shortly after the interval, it was Bayern's turn to feel aggrieved with Zwayer, who gave a penalty after Yussuf Poulsen fell theatrically under Jerome Boateng's challenge.Forsberg put Leipzig ahead but Thiago's header soon pegged them back and, despite wasting a host of chances in extra time, Jupp Heynckes' side retained their composure when it mattered most.
Leipzig had thrown away a 4-2 lead to lose 5-4 to Bayern in May, and this contest was equally thrilling, though not quite as goal-laden – with another course of this developing rivalry set to be served up in the Bundesliga on Saturday.The first contentious moment arrived in the 34th minute as Zwayer reneged on his initial decision to penalise Vidal's brainless tackle and awarded a free-kick, from which Forsberg clipped the top of the crossbar to add further insult to injury.
Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick stormed onto the field at half-time with phone in hand, seemingly ready to show the referee a replay of the incident until he was confronted by an angry Mats Hummels but the hosts could have few complaints with Zwayer in the 53rd minute as Keita picked up a second yellow for a cynical tug on Robert Lewandowski.
Bayern looked to swiftly capitalise on their man advantage as Kingsley Coman was kept out by Peter Gulacsi at his near post before Lewandowski broke clear and fired agonisingly wide.
But just as Bayern looked primed to put Leipzig away, Poulsen took a tumble under minimal contact from Boateng and Zwayer pointed to the spot immediately, Forsberg doing the rest.The lead lasted just five minutes, however, as Boateng clipped a sumptuous pass over the Leipzig defence for Thiago, who sent a free header beyond Gulacsi.
Thiago stung the palms of the keeper with a fierce volley, Bernardo blocking Lewandowski's rebound and in the first period of extra time, Gulacsi made a superb double save to thwart Thiago and Joshua Kimmich.Bayern introduced the unheralded Kwasi Okyere Wriedt and he almost marked his debut in style as a header crashed off the bar before Lewandowski saw a volley tipped over by Gulacsi.
The Poland forward headed over from point-blank range and that was the last real chance as Ulreich proved Bayern's shoot-out saviour in a contest fittingly decided from 12 yards when Werner's feeble effort followed nine perfect penalties.
Chelsea 2 Everton 1: Rudiger and Willian send spirited Toffees out
Antonio Rudiger's header and Willian's stunning stoppage-time strike secured Chelsea a place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals as David Unsworth's first game in temporary charge of Everton ended in a 2-1 defeat.
Ronald Koeman's 16-month stint in charge of Everton was brought to a halt on Monday, following a humiliating 5-2 home defeat to Arsenal that left them 18th in Premier League.
However, a rejuvenated second-half display showed Everton's quality - with a moment of magic from Willian in the 92nd minute ensuring that Dominic Calvert-Lewin's effort soon after was a mere consolation.
Rudiger's superb 26th-minute effort, the defender's first goal for the Premier League champions, looked to have taken the spirit out of the Toffees, but Unsworth's side responded superbly and dominated in the second half - Willy Caballero pulling off a string of saves to preserve Chelsea's lead.
Ademola Lookman went close with a blistering strike against the bar just before Chelsea wrapped up the win late on.Ultimately, though, it is now just two wins in 14 matches across all competitions for managerless Everton, who face fellow strugglers Leicester City next time out.
Rudiger opened the scoring with the game's first moment of quality as, unmarked at the back post, he powered a brilliant header home from Charly Musonda's cross. Michy Batshuayi managed to get a shot off on Chelsea's next meaningful venture forward, Jordan Pickford equal to the Belgium striker's low strike.
Devoid of confidence up top, Everton could have conceded again prior to the interval, and were fortunate that Davide Zappacosta could only hit the side-netting after Chelsea capitalised on Ashley Williams' error.
Impressing on his senior debut in Everton's midfield, Beni Baningime spurred the Toffees into life after the restart with a crunching challenge on Ethan Ampadu - Jonjoe Kenny firing wide from the resulting counter.
Everton pressed on and a star-jumping Caballero was out quickly to deny Wayne Rooney in the six-yard box before Aaron Lennon twice went close.Caballero's fine form continued as Everton piled on the pressure, Chelsea's stand-in goalkeeper keeping out Phil Jagielka's header before denying Kevin Mirallas.
Batshuayi should have wrapped up the victory with just over 10 minutes remaining after latching onto Rooney's sloppy pass, but a poor touch took the ball wide of the post.Substitute Lookman almost made Chelsea pay with a scorching hit from distance that clattered the woodwork, only for Willian to do the damage at the other end.
Having combined with Fabregas, the Brazil winger cut inside from the left to plant a wonderful curling effort in off the far post, giving Pickford no chance.There was to be late drama as Calvert-Lewin tucked home from close-range, but it was too little too late as Everton slumped to a third straight defeat.
Rudiger opened the scoring with the game's first moment of quality as, unmarked at the back post, he powered a brilliant header home from Charly Musonda's cross.
Michy Batshuayi managed to get a shot off on Chelsea's next meaningful venture forward, Jordan Pickford equal to the Belgium striker's low strike.Devoid of confidence up top, Everton could have conceded again prior to the interval, and were fortunate that Davide Zappacosta could only hit the side-netting after Chelsea capitalised on Ashley Williams' error.
Impressing on his senior debut in Everton's midfield, Beni Baningime spurred the Toffees into life after the restart with a crunching challenge on Ethan Ampadu - Jonjoe Kenny firing wide from the resulting counter.
Everton pressed on and a star-jumping Caballero was out quickly to deny Wayne Rooney in the six-yard box before Aaron Lennon twice went close.Caballero's fine form continued as Everton piled on the pressure, Chelsea's stand-in goalkeeper keeping out Phil Jagielka's header before denying Kevin Mirallas.
Batshuayi should have wrapped up the victory with just over 10 minutes remaining after latching onto Rooney's sloppy pass, but a poor touch took the ball wide of the post.
Substitute Lookman almost made Chelsea pay with a scorching hit from distance that clattered the woodwork, only for Willian to do the damage at the other end.Having combined with Fabregas, the Brazil winger cut inside from the left to plant a wonderful curling effort in off the far post, giving Pickford no chance.
There was to be late drama as Calvert-Lewin tucked home from close-range, but it was too little too late as Everton slumped to a third straight defeat.
Antonio Rudiger's header and Willian's stunning stoppage-time strike secured Chelsea a place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals as David Unsworth's first game in temporary charge of Everton ended in a 2-1 defeat.
Ronald Koeman's 16-month stint in charge of Everton was brought to a halt on Monday, following a humiliating 5-2 home defeat to Arsenal that left them 18th in Premier League.
However, a rejuvenated second-half display showed Everton's quality - with a moment of magic from Willian in the 92nd minute ensuring that Dominic Calvert-Lewin's effort soon after was a mere consolation.
Rudiger's superb 26th-minute effort, the defender's first goal for the Premier League champions, looked to have taken the spirit out of the Toffees, but Unsworth's side responded superbly and dominated in the second half - Willy Caballero pulling off a string of saves to preserve Chelsea's lead.
Ademola Lookman went close with a blistering strike against the bar just before Chelsea wrapped up the win late on.Ultimately, though, it is now just two wins in 14 matches across all competitions for managerless Everton, who face fellow strugglers Leicester City next time out.
Rudiger opened the scoring with the game's first moment of quality as, unmarked at the back post, he powered a brilliant header home from Charly Musonda's cross. Michy Batshuayi managed to get a shot off on Chelsea's next meaningful venture forward, Jordan Pickford equal to the Belgium striker's low strike.
Devoid of confidence up top, Everton could have conceded again prior to the interval, and were fortunate that Davide Zappacosta could only hit the side-netting after Chelsea capitalised on Ashley Williams' error.
Impressing on his senior debut in Everton's midfield, Beni Baningime spurred the Toffees into life after the restart with a crunching challenge on Ethan Ampadu - Jonjoe Kenny firing wide from the resulting counter.
Everton pressed on and a star-jumping Caballero was out quickly to deny Wayne Rooney in the six-yard box before Aaron Lennon twice went close.Caballero's fine form continued as Everton piled on the pressure, Chelsea's stand-in goalkeeper keeping out Phil Jagielka's header before denying Kevin Mirallas.
Batshuayi should have wrapped up the victory with just over 10 minutes remaining after latching onto Rooney's sloppy pass, but a poor touch took the ball wide of the post.Substitute Lookman almost made Chelsea pay with a scorching hit from distance that clattered the woodwork, only for Willian to do the damage at the other end.
Having combined with Fabregas, the Brazil winger cut inside from the left to plant a wonderful curling effort in off the far post, giving Pickford no chance.There was to be late drama as Calvert-Lewin tucked home from close-range, but it was too little too late as Everton slumped to a third straight defeat.
Rudiger opened the scoring with the game's first moment of quality as, unmarked at the back post, he powered a brilliant header home from Charly Musonda's cross.
Michy Batshuayi managed to get a shot off on Chelsea's next meaningful venture forward, Jordan Pickford equal to the Belgium striker's low strike.Devoid of confidence up top, Everton could have conceded again prior to the interval, and were fortunate that Davide Zappacosta could only hit the side-netting after Chelsea capitalised on Ashley Williams' error.
Impressing on his senior debut in Everton's midfield, Beni Baningime spurred the Toffees into life after the restart with a crunching challenge on Ethan Ampadu - Jonjoe Kenny firing wide from the resulting counter.
Everton pressed on and a star-jumping Caballero was out quickly to deny Wayne Rooney in the six-yard box before Aaron Lennon twice went close.Caballero's fine form continued as Everton piled on the pressure, Chelsea's stand-in goalkeeper keeping out Phil Jagielka's header before denying Kevin Mirallas.
Batshuayi should have wrapped up the victory with just over 10 minutes remaining after latching onto Rooney's sloppy pass, but a poor touch took the ball wide of the post.
Substitute Lookman almost made Chelsea pay with a scorching hit from distance that clattered the woodwork, only for Willian to do the damage at the other end.Having combined with Fabregas, the Brazil winger cut inside from the left to plant a wonderful curling effort in off the far post, giving Pickford no chance.
There was to be late drama as Calvert-Lewin tucked home from close-range, but it was too little too late as Everton slumped to a third straight defeat.
Chievo 1 AC Milan 4: Suso stars to ease pressure on Montella
Suso eased the immediate pressure on his coach Vincenzo Montella with a magnificent individual performance as AC Milan got back to winning ways with an impressive 4-1 Serie A win at Chievo on Wednesday.
A run of just one win in six games across all competitions, including a derby defeat to arch-rivals Inter, has led to questions surrounding Montella's future after a big-spending transfer window.
But talk of his departure was put to bed, at least for now, as Suso ensured Milan did not suffer a fourth consecutive away Serie A defeat and extended their unbeaten run against Chievo to 22 matches.
Milan started the game in 12th following Atalanta's 3-0 win over Verona, with Chievo two points ahead in seventh, but the Rossoneri leapfrogged their hosts with a fine display at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi.
Suso opened the scoring with a brilliant strike and it was his cross that was turned into the Chievo net by unfortunate defender Bostjan Cesar as Milan scored two goals in six first-half minutes to take command.
Hakan Calhanoglu capped a quick Milan break to make it three in the 55th minute and, though Valter Birsa scored against his former club for the second time in three meetings to pull one back, Suso ensured Milan had the final say by setting up Nikola Kalinic.
Milan, who cruised to victory despite the absence through suspension of defender Leonardo Bonucci, move up to eighth place but are still nine points adrift of the top four going into Saturday's huge game at San Siro against champions Juventus.
Chievo were the first to really threaten an opening goal, captain Sergio Pellissier meeting Fabrizio Cacciatore's cross with a looping header that Alessio Romagnoli cleared off the line with Gianluigi Donnarumma scrambling. Donnarumma was then called into action moments later to keep out Ivan Radovanovic's drive from just outside the area, while Milan were reduced largely to long-range efforts early on.
They should have paid the price from some poor marking at the other end midway through the first half when Nenad Tomovic was left free at a corner, but the left-back failed to hit the target as he headed over.Suso had been Milan's only attacking outlet in the opening 45 minutes and it was he who broke the deadlock in stunning fashion in the 36th minute.
The former Liverpool attacking midfielder made it four goals in nine league games as he curled a wonderful 20-yard effort into the bottom-left corner beyond the dive of Stefano Sorrentino.And Sorrentino was left helpless as Milan doubled their lead in fortuitous fashion three minutes before the break.
Suso sent an in-swinging cross into the box and, with just one Milan player in the area, it was inadvertently headed into his own net by Cesar.The result was all but assured 10 minutes into the second half as Milan caught Chievo on the counter, Franck Kessie laying the ball off for Calhanoglu to rifle in his first Serie A goal.
Birsa threatened a response when he fired narrowly wide from long range and he made no mistake second time around, beating Donnarumma with a low 61st-minute effort after Kessie had carelessly conceded possession.However, Milan's position of dominance was reasserted just three minutes later as Kalinic coolly converted from close range with the outside of his boot after a superb throughball from Suso.
Donnarumma turned a Tomovic header against the bar to stop Chievo from making the scoreline look more respectable, and a similar kind of ruthlessness at both ends of the field will be required for Milan to get the better of Juve, though they may have to do so without Davide Calabria after he was taken off on a stretcher with a head injury in added time.
Suso eased the immediate pressure on his coach Vincenzo Montella with a magnificent individual performance as AC Milan got back to winning ways with an impressive 4-1 Serie A win at Chievo on Wednesday.
A run of just one win in six games across all competitions, including a derby defeat to arch-rivals Inter, has led to questions surrounding Montella's future after a big-spending transfer window.
But talk of his departure was put to bed, at least for now, as Suso ensured Milan did not suffer a fourth consecutive away Serie A defeat and extended their unbeaten run against Chievo to 22 matches.
Milan started the game in 12th following Atalanta's 3-0 win over Verona, with Chievo two points ahead in seventh, but the Rossoneri leapfrogged their hosts with a fine display at the Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi.
Suso opened the scoring with a brilliant strike and it was his cross that was turned into the Chievo net by unfortunate defender Bostjan Cesar as Milan scored two goals in six first-half minutes to take command.
Hakan Calhanoglu capped a quick Milan break to make it three in the 55th minute and, though Valter Birsa scored against his former club for the second time in three meetings to pull one back, Suso ensured Milan had the final say by setting up Nikola Kalinic.
Milan, who cruised to victory despite the absence through suspension of defender Leonardo Bonucci, move up to eighth place but are still nine points adrift of the top four going into Saturday's huge game at San Siro against champions Juventus.
Chievo were the first to really threaten an opening goal, captain Sergio Pellissier meeting Fabrizio Cacciatore's cross with a looping header that Alessio Romagnoli cleared off the line with Gianluigi Donnarumma scrambling. Donnarumma was then called into action moments later to keep out Ivan Radovanovic's drive from just outside the area, while Milan were reduced largely to long-range efforts early on.
They should have paid the price from some poor marking at the other end midway through the first half when Nenad Tomovic was left free at a corner, but the left-back failed to hit the target as he headed over.Suso had been Milan's only attacking outlet in the opening 45 minutes and it was he who broke the deadlock in stunning fashion in the 36th minute.
The former Liverpool attacking midfielder made it four goals in nine league games as he curled a wonderful 20-yard effort into the bottom-left corner beyond the dive of Stefano Sorrentino.And Sorrentino was left helpless as Milan doubled their lead in fortuitous fashion three minutes before the break.
Suso sent an in-swinging cross into the box and, with just one Milan player in the area, it was inadvertently headed into his own net by Cesar.The result was all but assured 10 minutes into the second half as Milan caught Chievo on the counter, Franck Kessie laying the ball off for Calhanoglu to rifle in his first Serie A goal.
Birsa threatened a response when he fired narrowly wide from long range and he made no mistake second time around, beating Donnarumma with a low 61st-minute effort after Kessie had carelessly conceded possession.However, Milan's position of dominance was reasserted just three minutes later as Kalinic coolly converted from close range with the outside of his boot after a superb throughball from Suso.
Donnarumma turned a Tomovic header against the bar to stop Chievo from making the scoreline look more respectable, and a similar kind of ruthlessness at both ends of the field will be required for Milan to get the better of Juve, though they may have to do so without Davide Calabria after he was taken off on a stretcher with a head injury in added time.
U17 World Cup: Mali 1-3 Spain - La Rojita ride on Abel Ruiz brace to set up final clash with Young Lions
Spain registered a 3-1 win over Mali in the second semi-final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday.
A first-half brace from Abel Ruiz and a third goal by Ferran Torres in the second-half sealed Spain's progression into the final. N'Diaye's goal in the 74th minute was nothing more than a consolation for the losing side,African giants Mali lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation as they locked horns with European champions Spain, who opted for a 4-2-3-1 shape.
Les Aiglonnets’ skipper Mohammed Camara was suspended following two consecutive yellow cards and was therefore replaced by Chieck Omar Doucoure in midfield. As for La Rojita, gaffer Santiago Denia named an unchanged XI for the fifth consecutive game as Abel Ruiz continued to lead the line.
The first quarter of the intriguing tie saw both continental champions test the respective defensive forces as Sergio Gomez and Lassana N’Diaye came close to slotting in the opening goal for their sides.However, it was in the 19th minute that the first blood was drawn as Spanish skipper Abel Ruiz scored his fifth goal of the tournament from the penalty spot.
Cesar Gelabert was brought down inside the 18-yard-box by Malian defender Abdoulaye Diaby which led to a penalty kick being awarded to Spain. Abel Ruiz made no mistake in clinching the opener as he hit the middle of the net, leaving goalkeeper Youssouf Koita helpless.
The FC Barcelona starlet doubled the lead in the 43rd minute which saw Cesar Gelabert provide a pivotal ball to Ruiz who released a grounded shot from outside the box. This was the end of proceedings in the first half as the boys in red walked off at the half-time whistle on a comfortable two-goal cushion.
Around the one-hour mark, Chieck Oumar Doucoure’s shot from 30 yards out hit the crossbar and bounced out after crossing the goal-line. The controversial attempt was overlooked by the match official as Mali’s staff from the sidelines burst in fury.
Mali’s misery was further stretched as the African champions conceded the third goal in the 71st minute. A cross by Sergio Gomez from the left flank saw Ferran Torres get to the end of it as the Valencia player headed the ball into the net.
Just three minutes post, the Malians bounced back as their leading goal-scorer Lassana N’Diaye released a left-footed shot into the bottom right corner of the goal. However, the goal came too late as Spain had already murdered Mali’s hopes of progression with their three strikes.The full-time result saw Spain march into the final of the tournament where they will face their fellow Europeans England in what would be a recap of the 2017 U-17 European Championship finale.
On the other hand, losers Mali will compete against Brazil in the third-place play-off at Kolkata on 28th October. The third-place decider will be held at 17:00 IST whereas the final will kick off at 20:00 IST at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Spain registered a 3-1 win over Mali in the second semi-final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday.
A first-half brace from Abel Ruiz and a third goal by Ferran Torres in the second-half sealed Spain's progression into the final. N'Diaye's goal in the 74th minute was nothing more than a consolation for the losing side,African giants Mali lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation as they locked horns with European champions Spain, who opted for a 4-2-3-1 shape.
Les Aiglonnets’ skipper Mohammed Camara was suspended following two consecutive yellow cards and was therefore replaced by Chieck Omar Doucoure in midfield. As for La Rojita, gaffer Santiago Denia named an unchanged XI for the fifth consecutive game as Abel Ruiz continued to lead the line.
The first quarter of the intriguing tie saw both continental champions test the respective defensive forces as Sergio Gomez and Lassana N’Diaye came close to slotting in the opening goal for their sides.However, it was in the 19th minute that the first blood was drawn as Spanish skipper Abel Ruiz scored his fifth goal of the tournament from the penalty spot.
Cesar Gelabert was brought down inside the 18-yard-box by Malian defender Abdoulaye Diaby which led to a penalty kick being awarded to Spain. Abel Ruiz made no mistake in clinching the opener as he hit the middle of the net, leaving goalkeeper Youssouf Koita helpless.
The FC Barcelona starlet doubled the lead in the 43rd minute which saw Cesar Gelabert provide a pivotal ball to Ruiz who released a grounded shot from outside the box. This was the end of proceedings in the first half as the boys in red walked off at the half-time whistle on a comfortable two-goal cushion.
Around the one-hour mark, Chieck Oumar Doucoure’s shot from 30 yards out hit the crossbar and bounced out after crossing the goal-line. The controversial attempt was overlooked by the match official as Mali’s staff from the sidelines burst in fury.
Mali’s misery was further stretched as the African champions conceded the third goal in the 71st minute. A cross by Sergio Gomez from the left flank saw Ferran Torres get to the end of it as the Valencia player headed the ball into the net.
Just three minutes post, the Malians bounced back as their leading goal-scorer Lassana N’Diaye released a left-footed shot into the bottom right corner of the goal. However, the goal came too late as Spain had already murdered Mali’s hopes of progression with their three strikes.The full-time result saw Spain march into the final of the tournament where they will face their fellow Europeans England in what would be a recap of the 2017 U-17 European Championship finale.
On the other hand, losers Mali will compete against Brazil in the third-place play-off at Kolkata on 28th October. The third-place decider will be held at 17:00 IST whereas the final will kick off at 20:00 IST at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
England will take on Spain in the final of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on October 28.
England efficiently dispatched Brazil 3-1 after a hat-trick effort from Rhian Brewster in Kolkata earlier today to book their berth in the final. Abel Ruiz's brace ensured a 3-1 win for Spain over Mali in the second semi-final in Mumbai.
The fixture will be a rematch of this year's European U-17 Championship where in Spain triumphed on penalties against a heartbroken England.
The leading goalscorer of the U17 World Cup Rhian Brewster (7 goals) had missed a penalty in the final held in Croatia on May 19. Three months later, the Liverpool striker has the chance to redeem himself against the mighty Spanish troops.
The final will kick-off at 8 PM in Kolkata on October 28.
Arsenal eager to keep Sanchez and Ozil, says club owner Kroenke
Arsenal want "top players" and would love to keep stars Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, owner Stan Kroenke said.
Sanchez and Ozil are yet to re-sign with the Premier League giants despite coming out of contract at the end of the season.It has led to speculation over both of their futures, with Manchester City and United linked to the duo.
But Kroenke is eager to keep Sanchez and Ozil, who impressed in Arsenal's 5-2 win over Everton on Sunday."We want to attract top players, keep top players and those guys are top players," he told The Telegraph."I watched them on Sunday and they looked really good and played really, really, really well. We'd love to keep them.
"It takes two to dance. We'll keep working to keep our top talent and to attract more talent but some of the guys we've got are looking pretty good."The win at Goodison Park was an important one for Arsenal, who are fifth in the Premier League – nine points behind leaders City.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has recently questioned whether UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations work, and Kroenke acknowledged how difficult it was for spending to be controlled.
"In the United States you have one jurisdiction — over here you have multiple jurisdictions and it's challenging, but it's been challenging since we first became involved," he said."Money helps. We'd rather have it than not."
Arsenal want "top players" and would love to keep stars Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, owner Stan Kroenke said.
Sanchez and Ozil are yet to re-sign with the Premier League giants despite coming out of contract at the end of the season.It has led to speculation over both of their futures, with Manchester City and United linked to the duo.
But Kroenke is eager to keep Sanchez and Ozil, who impressed in Arsenal's 5-2 win over Everton on Sunday."We want to attract top players, keep top players and those guys are top players," he told The Telegraph."I watched them on Sunday and they looked really good and played really, really, really well. We'd love to keep them.
"It takes two to dance. We'll keep working to keep our top talent and to attract more talent but some of the guys we've got are looking pretty good."The win at Goodison Park was an important one for Arsenal, who are fifth in the Premier League – nine points behind leaders City.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has recently questioned whether UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations work, and Kroenke acknowledged how difficult it was for spending to be controlled.
"In the United States you have one jurisdiction — over here you have multiple jurisdictions and it's challenging, but it's been challenging since we first became involved," he said."Money helps. We'd rather have it than not."
Herrera insists Mourinho relationship is 'fantastic'
Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has denied his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho was damaged in the wake of the shock defeat to Huddersfield Town.The Spain international suggested United's 2-1 Premier League loss last weekend was due in part to a worse attitude than David Wagner's side.
Herrera's explanation for their first defeat of the season prompted a furious response from Mourinho, who said: "Oh my God. When a player says that, when a player feels that, I think they should all go to the press conference and explain why because I cannot explain that."
The former Athletic Bilbao man has only made three starts in the Premier League this season and speculation of a soured relationship with Mourinho was exacerbated by the Huddersfield remarks.However, Herrera insists he still has a "fantastic" understanding with Mourinho and has no problem with any critical comments.
"If you listen properly to what I said, I just said in the first 30 minutes they had a better attitude than us," he said following the 2-0 EFL Cup win at Swansea City on Tuesday."That is what happened. After that we had a good attitude and we were even close to drawing the game, which is not easy after playing bad for the first 30 minutes.That is what I said but now we want to forget what happened."Everything he says I accept. I am a professional. We have a fantastic relationship, so let's look forward and think about Tottenham."
United's attention now turns towards the visit of Tottenham on Saturday and Herrera admits it is a must-win game against a team with whom they are level on 20 points in the table.
"Tottenham is not going to be four or five points but we have to win against them because they are a direct rival for the title and also because we play at home," he said."For the last two or three seasons, they have improved a lot. They are contenders for everything."
Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has denied his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho was damaged in the wake of the shock defeat to Huddersfield Town.The Spain international suggested United's 2-1 Premier League loss last weekend was due in part to a worse attitude than David Wagner's side.
Herrera's explanation for their first defeat of the season prompted a furious response from Mourinho, who said: "Oh my God. When a player says that, when a player feels that, I think they should all go to the press conference and explain why because I cannot explain that."
The former Athletic Bilbao man has only made three starts in the Premier League this season and speculation of a soured relationship with Mourinho was exacerbated by the Huddersfield remarks.However, Herrera insists he still has a "fantastic" understanding with Mourinho and has no problem with any critical comments.
"If you listen properly to what I said, I just said in the first 30 minutes they had a better attitude than us," he said following the 2-0 EFL Cup win at Swansea City on Tuesday."That is what happened. After that we had a good attitude and we were even close to drawing the game, which is not easy after playing bad for the first 30 minutes.That is what I said but now we want to forget what happened."Everything he says I accept. I am a professional. We have a fantastic relationship, so let's look forward and think about Tottenham."
United's attention now turns towards the visit of Tottenham on Saturday and Herrera admits it is a must-win game against a team with whom they are level on 20 points in the table.
"Tottenham is not going to be four or five points but we have to win against them because they are a direct rival for the title and also because we play at home," he said."For the last two or three seasons, they have improved a lot. They are contenders for everything."
Spurs star Kane in doubt for Man United clash – Pochettino
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino revealed star Harry Kane is no certainty to face Manchester United on Saturday after missing the EFL Cup midweek.Kane, 24, sat out Tottenham's shock 3-2 loss to West Ham on Wednesday, having spearheaded Spurs against Real Madrid and Liverpool.
The Premier League's leading scorer – in pursuit of a third consecutive Golden Boot – was seemingly rested, though it appears there could have been more to Kane's absence at Wembley ahead of Tottenham's blockbuster trip to Old Trafford.
"We'll see, we'll see," Pochettino told beIN Sports when asked if Kane would face United after Spurs surrendered a 2-0 half-time lead against West Ham.
"We need to assess the team because we were forced to rotate for different reasons and we'll see what happens in the next few days."Tottenham and United are level on 20 points after nine matches, five adrift of leaders Manchester City, though Jose Mourinho's men are second on goal difference.
Kane continues to lead the way for Tottenham this season with eight Premier League goals and 11 in his past eight matches in all competitions, having netted a brace in the 4-1 rout of Liverpool last week.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino revealed star Harry Kane is no certainty to face Manchester United on Saturday after missing the EFL Cup midweek.Kane, 24, sat out Tottenham's shock 3-2 loss to West Ham on Wednesday, having spearheaded Spurs against Real Madrid and Liverpool.
The Premier League's leading scorer – in pursuit of a third consecutive Golden Boot – was seemingly rested, though it appears there could have been more to Kane's absence at Wembley ahead of Tottenham's blockbuster trip to Old Trafford.
"We'll see, we'll see," Pochettino told beIN Sports when asked if Kane would face United after Spurs surrendered a 2-0 half-time lead against West Ham.
"We need to assess the team because we were forced to rotate for different reasons and we'll see what happens in the next few days."Tottenham and United are level on 20 points after nine matches, five adrift of leaders Manchester City, though Jose Mourinho's men are second on goal difference.
Kane continues to lead the way for Tottenham this season with eight Premier League goals and 11 in his past eight matches in all competitions, having netted a brace in the 4-1 rout of Liverpool last week.
Fuenlabrada 0 Real Madrid 2: Asensio, Vazquez spot-kicks settle Copa first-leg clash
A weakened Real Madrid twice benefited from generous penalty decisions to kick off their Copa del Rey campaign with a 2-0 first-leg win over 10-man minnows Fuenlabrada in the last 32.
Madrid have won this competition only twice since the turn of the century and coach Zinedine Zidane made six changes to the side that beat Eibar but they were never likely to be troubled by the third-tier hosts.With the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric all missing, it was Marco Asensio who provided the inspiration at the Estadio Fernando Torres.
The visitors' momentum had slowly built throughout the first half after a slightly shaky start, but it was from a contentious penalty that the Spain international finally made the breakthrough after 63 minutes.
A series of stunning saves from ex-Madrid goalkeeper Jordi Codina looked to have kept his side in the tie ahead of the return fixture at Santiago Bernabeu, but another spot-kick moved Madrid out of sight.
Substitute Paco Candela was dismissed for picking up two cautions within seven minutes of his introduction and Lucas Vazquez netted the second goal to give Zidane's men some breathing space, their outing only blighted by debutant Jesus Vallejo receiving a straight red card for a lunge on Fuenlabrada captain Luis Milla.
Madrid started on the front foot, but they almost fell behind in calamitous circumstances as Kiko Casilla met an inswinging cross with a punch that struck Achraf and bounced just wide.
Casilla gathered Miguel Atienza's header from the consequent corner and Madrid, sensing the hosts' growing confidence, moved to respond as Dani Ceballos rifled a free-kick straight at Codina.Madrid very nearly headed into the break with the lead as Marcos Llorente cracked a shot against the crossbar on the stroke of half-time.
Codina's touch helped that marvellous attempt on its way, but the keeper was fortunate not to see his hard work immediately undone as he spilled Borja Mayoral's low strike and was relieved to dive on the loose ball.
Just as Madrid's efforts began to wane, however, a favourable refereeing call gave Zidane's men the lift they so needed. Achraf looked to be outside the area as he ran beyond Fran Garcia and went down under a half-hearted challenge, but referee Ignacio Iglesias pointed to the spot and Asensio took full advantage.
Another unorthodox Codina stop denied Asensio a quick second, before the veteran keeper brilliantly turned Mayoral's drive over the crossbar.And Codina was at it again when Mayoral met Achraf's cross with a firm header, the Fuenlabrada man somehow getting across to his right to make another save.
Madrid, now completely dominant, continued to push for a clinching second as Vazquez whipped a low effort wide, but it was another debatable penalty award that settled this match and potentially the tie.
Theo Hernandez grappled with Candela and was successful in his appeal for a foul, with the home player dismissed and Vazquez slotting the spot-kick under Codina, before both sides ended the game with 10 men as Vallejo's bow met a premature end after his high challenge on Milla.
A weakened Real Madrid twice benefited from generous penalty decisions to kick off their Copa del Rey campaign with a 2-0 first-leg win over 10-man minnows Fuenlabrada in the last 32.
Madrid have won this competition only twice since the turn of the century and coach Zinedine Zidane made six changes to the side that beat Eibar but they were never likely to be troubled by the third-tier hosts.With the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric all missing, it was Marco Asensio who provided the inspiration at the Estadio Fernando Torres.
The visitors' momentum had slowly built throughout the first half after a slightly shaky start, but it was from a contentious penalty that the Spain international finally made the breakthrough after 63 minutes.
A series of stunning saves from ex-Madrid goalkeeper Jordi Codina looked to have kept his side in the tie ahead of the return fixture at Santiago Bernabeu, but another spot-kick moved Madrid out of sight.
Substitute Paco Candela was dismissed for picking up two cautions within seven minutes of his introduction and Lucas Vazquez netted the second goal to give Zidane's men some breathing space, their outing only blighted by debutant Jesus Vallejo receiving a straight red card for a lunge on Fuenlabrada captain Luis Milla.
Madrid started on the front foot, but they almost fell behind in calamitous circumstances as Kiko Casilla met an inswinging cross with a punch that struck Achraf and bounced just wide.
Casilla gathered Miguel Atienza's header from the consequent corner and Madrid, sensing the hosts' growing confidence, moved to respond as Dani Ceballos rifled a free-kick straight at Codina.Madrid very nearly headed into the break with the lead as Marcos Llorente cracked a shot against the crossbar on the stroke of half-time.
Codina's touch helped that marvellous attempt on its way, but the keeper was fortunate not to see his hard work immediately undone as he spilled Borja Mayoral's low strike and was relieved to dive on the loose ball.
Just as Madrid's efforts began to wane, however, a favourable refereeing call gave Zidane's men the lift they so needed. Achraf looked to be outside the area as he ran beyond Fran Garcia and went down under a half-hearted challenge, but referee Ignacio Iglesias pointed to the spot and Asensio took full advantage.
Another unorthodox Codina stop denied Asensio a quick second, before the veteran keeper brilliantly turned Mayoral's drive over the crossbar.And Codina was at it again when Mayoral met Achraf's cross with a firm header, the Fuenlabrada man somehow getting across to his right to make another save.
Madrid, now completely dominant, continued to push for a clinching second as Vazquez whipped a low effort wide, but it was another debatable penalty award that settled this match and potentially the tie.
Theo Hernandez grappled with Candela and was successful in his appeal for a foul, with the home player dismissed and Vazquez slotting the spot-kick under Codina, before both sides ended the game with 10 men as Vallejo's bow met a premature end after his high challenge on Milla.
PSG star Neymar banned for one match after picking up red card
Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar will serve a one-game ban following his red card against Marseille on Sunday.
After picking up his first red card since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona for a world-record fee, Neymar will be forced to sit out PSG's match against Nice on Friday.
The Brazil international was sent off late in the 2-2 draw in Le Classique after clashing with Lucas Ocampos, who may have overdramatised the incident.
It was Neymar's second yellow card in three minutes, but Edinson Cavani managed to earn Ligue 1 leaders PSG a point with a late free-kick.
Neymar will face a further one-match suspension if he commits the same offence before the end of the Ligue 1 season.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar will serve a one-game ban following his red card against Marseille on Sunday.
After picking up his first red card since joining the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona for a world-record fee, Neymar will be forced to sit out PSG's match against Nice on Friday.
The Brazil international was sent off late in the 2-2 draw in Le Classique after clashing with Lucas Ocampos, who may have overdramatised the incident.
It was Neymar's second yellow card in three minutes, but Edinson Cavani managed to earn Ligue 1 leaders PSG a point with a late free-kick.
Neymar will face a further one-match suspension if he commits the same offence before the end of the Ligue 1 season.
'When he walked into the room, people would stop talking' - Berbatov on the Ferguson effect
Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has spoken on the aura that Sir Alex Ferguson had around Old Trafford.The Scot took charge of the Red Devils in 1986 and did not leave until he retired in 2013. During that time, he oversaw a period of unprecedented glory, leading the club to two Champions League titles as well as 13 Premier League crowns.
Berbatov, who is now 36, was made Ferguson's record signing in 2008 when he arrived in a dramatic deadline day move from Tottenham for £30.75 million, and the former Bulgaria international striker has lavished praise on the managerial icon.
“When he walked into the room, people would stop talking,” he told ESPN. “He commanded so much respect and attention because of all the success he'd had. He was good with words, probably from all the books he read. I'd go to his office and he'd have Napoleon's biography on the table.”
When he heard that Manchester United wanted him, it was his sole aim to move to Old Trafford, even admitting that he turned down more money from City, the club Ferguson branded “the noisy neighbours”, in favour of their rivals.
“When United wanted me I was like a horse with blinkers on. I was not interested in anyone else. City offered more money but the team was weaker and their history couldn't compete with United,” he said.
Indeed, leaving Tottenham for United appeared to pose no problems for him at all.
“When you follow your own path, you have to make decisions like this. I wanted to win trophies and play for the biggest club, and the biggest club in England is Manchester United,” he said.
“You can stay here in your comfort zone or make the next step in your career. It was not a difficult decision; Manchester United were the English and European champions, they had the best players, they had Sir Alex Ferguson and Old Trafford. How could I not be seduced?
“When I signed for United, I felt like it was a reward for everything that I'd been through in my life.”Berbatov played 149 games for United and scored 56 goals before moving to Fulham.
Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has spoken on the aura that Sir Alex Ferguson had around Old Trafford.The Scot took charge of the Red Devils in 1986 and did not leave until he retired in 2013. During that time, he oversaw a period of unprecedented glory, leading the club to two Champions League titles as well as 13 Premier League crowns.
Berbatov, who is now 36, was made Ferguson's record signing in 2008 when he arrived in a dramatic deadline day move from Tottenham for £30.75 million, and the former Bulgaria international striker has lavished praise on the managerial icon.
“When he walked into the room, people would stop talking,” he told ESPN. “He commanded so much respect and attention because of all the success he'd had. He was good with words, probably from all the books he read. I'd go to his office and he'd have Napoleon's biography on the table.”
When he heard that Manchester United wanted him, it was his sole aim to move to Old Trafford, even admitting that he turned down more money from City, the club Ferguson branded “the noisy neighbours”, in favour of their rivals.
“When United wanted me I was like a horse with blinkers on. I was not interested in anyone else. City offered more money but the team was weaker and their history couldn't compete with United,” he said.
Indeed, leaving Tottenham for United appeared to pose no problems for him at all.
“When you follow your own path, you have to make decisions like this. I wanted to win trophies and play for the biggest club, and the biggest club in England is Manchester United,” he said.
“You can stay here in your comfort zone or make the next step in your career. It was not a difficult decision; Manchester United were the English and European champions, they had the best players, they had Sir Alex Ferguson and Old Trafford. How could I not be seduced?
“When I signed for United, I felt like it was a reward for everything that I'd been through in my life.”Berbatov played 149 games for United and scored 56 goals before moving to Fulham.
Berbatov picks Messi over Ronaldo: 'He's the f*****g greatest'
Best FIFA Men's Player winner Cristiano Ronaldo is still behind Lionel Messi, according to Dimitar Berbatov, who said the Barcelona star is "the f*****g greatest".
After helping Real Madrid retain the Champions League and win La Liga, Ronaldo claimed the individual award for the second time in a row, finishing ahead of Messi and Neymar.
Berbatov spent a season alongside the now-32-year-old at Manchester United before the latter's move to Real Madrid, but he believes it is the Argentina and Barca talisman who is still the pinnacle of the game.
“He's the f***ing greatest. Ronaldo is brilliant, Messi is more my kind of player," Berbatov told ESPNFC. "He sees the game so clearly. He can score, create, he's the complete player, the best ever probably.”
Berbatov does hold hold the Portugal international as a good example to follow, but says it is his work rate that aspiring players should copy instead of his personal style.
“Young players try and imitate the best players like Ronaldo. They try to imitate the hair, the clothes, the cars, the tricks," he said. "I try to tell them how hard Cristiano Ronaldo trained in training and after training."He only wanted to be the best. Everything else came after.”
Berbatov is currently with Kerala Blasters in India and admits it could be his last club. Having represented Bayer Leverkusen, Tottenham and United in his club career, the 36-year-old feels he has often been misunderstood by coaches but gave credit to Sir Alex Ferguson for noticing his real talent.
“I am a striker and people expect strikers to score goals. But I don't see myself as a striker," he added."I like to play with the ball and have the freedom to move around. If every player is on the left and I am on the right, you need to trust me that I have seen something the other players have not seen."I like it when the coach knows this and allows me to express myself. I felt that Ferguson trusted me.”
Best FIFA Men's Player winner Cristiano Ronaldo is still behind Lionel Messi, according to Dimitar Berbatov, who said the Barcelona star is "the f*****g greatest".
After helping Real Madrid retain the Champions League and win La Liga, Ronaldo claimed the individual award for the second time in a row, finishing ahead of Messi and Neymar.
Berbatov spent a season alongside the now-32-year-old at Manchester United before the latter's move to Real Madrid, but he believes it is the Argentina and Barca talisman who is still the pinnacle of the game.
“He's the f***ing greatest. Ronaldo is brilliant, Messi is more my kind of player," Berbatov told ESPNFC. "He sees the game so clearly. He can score, create, he's the complete player, the best ever probably.”
Berbatov does hold hold the Portugal international as a good example to follow, but says it is his work rate that aspiring players should copy instead of his personal style.
“Young players try and imitate the best players like Ronaldo. They try to imitate the hair, the clothes, the cars, the tricks," he said. "I try to tell them how hard Cristiano Ronaldo trained in training and after training."He only wanted to be the best. Everything else came after.”
Berbatov is currently with Kerala Blasters in India and admits it could be his last club. Having represented Bayer Leverkusen, Tottenham and United in his club career, the 36-year-old feels he has often been misunderstood by coaches but gave credit to Sir Alex Ferguson for noticing his real talent.
“I am a striker and people expect strikers to score goals. But I don't see myself as a striker," he added."I like to play with the ball and have the freedom to move around. If every player is on the left and I am on the right, you need to trust me that I have seen something the other players have not seen."I like it when the coach knows this and allows me to express myself. I felt that Ferguson trusted me.”
Wenger defends Arsenal values as fans revolt at AGM
Arsene Wenger made an impassioned plea for support after Arsenal fans again made their discontent with the club clear at Thursday's annual general meeting.
Wenger addressed those gathered at Emirates Stadium after the majority of fans present voted against chairman Sir Chips Keswick and Josh Kroenke – the son of majority shareholder Stan Kroenke – being re-elected to the Arsenal board.
Stan Kroenke and Alisher Usmanov, who was absent and voted by proxy, cast their ballots in favour of both remaining, meaning Keswick and Kroenke Jr were retained on account of a combined 97 per cent shareholding.
However, it amounted to a symbolic show of dissent, being the first time shareholders have voted down a resolution at an Arsenal AGM to prompt a card vote.
The significance was not lost on Wenger, who signed a two-year contract extension with the FA Cup winners at the end of last season following months of protests against his long-standing reign.
"It's an immense privilege to speak here for a 21st time. I dedicate 99 per cent of my life to making you happy. Looking at what happened today, that's not easy," Wenger said. "A football club is about the past, the present and the future. In what we see now, the weight of the past and the weight of the future has been kicked out of the game.
"The weight of the present has become heavy. It's the only one thing people want. Win or out. It's acceptable but I always guided this club with one idea - that the club is always, for me, about values."When I look at photos of the 1930s, 1950s and 1960s [Arsenal] have not always won but there's some pride for the sense of belonging to this club.
"I will never betray the people who create these values. Arsenal is a highly respected club, not only because we won the last game but because we represent something that is exceptional."The present for me is about style of play, winning trophies, winning every game. Don't think I don't know. It's essential.
"I just ask you one thing. Be behind the team. We accept the verdict at the end of the season but there's something special in this team. We have a chance."Wenger went on to address the concentration of financial power among elite clubs in modern football, with Arsenal having failed to secure a Champions League spot for the first time in his 21-year reign last season.The 68-year-old suggested surprises such as Aston Villa's European Cup win in 1982 feel impossible nowadays.
That drew a heckle of "At least they won it," from one shareholder, but Wenger still closed by warmly outlining his affinity for the club – winning long applause before a hostile atmosphere returned for addresses by Keswick and chief executive Ivan Gazidis, during which the much-criticised Stan Kroenke was a passive observer on the top table.
"My hunger and commitment is bigger than ever. I question myself a lot and I will sit down every year with my board to see where I go from there," Wenger added.
"My hunger is absolutely huge. No matter what happens one day, I will always love this club forever and be a huge fan of this club."
Arsene Wenger made an impassioned plea for support after Arsenal fans again made their discontent with the club clear at Thursday's annual general meeting.
Wenger addressed those gathered at Emirates Stadium after the majority of fans present voted against chairman Sir Chips Keswick and Josh Kroenke – the son of majority shareholder Stan Kroenke – being re-elected to the Arsenal board.
Stan Kroenke and Alisher Usmanov, who was absent and voted by proxy, cast their ballots in favour of both remaining, meaning Keswick and Kroenke Jr were retained on account of a combined 97 per cent shareholding.
However, it amounted to a symbolic show of dissent, being the first time shareholders have voted down a resolution at an Arsenal AGM to prompt a card vote.
The significance was not lost on Wenger, who signed a two-year contract extension with the FA Cup winners at the end of last season following months of protests against his long-standing reign.
"It's an immense privilege to speak here for a 21st time. I dedicate 99 per cent of my life to making you happy. Looking at what happened today, that's not easy," Wenger said. "A football club is about the past, the present and the future. In what we see now, the weight of the past and the weight of the future has been kicked out of the game.
"The weight of the present has become heavy. It's the only one thing people want. Win or out. It's acceptable but I always guided this club with one idea - that the club is always, for me, about values."When I look at photos of the 1930s, 1950s and 1960s [Arsenal] have not always won but there's some pride for the sense of belonging to this club.
"I will never betray the people who create these values. Arsenal is a highly respected club, not only because we won the last game but because we represent something that is exceptional."The present for me is about style of play, winning trophies, winning every game. Don't think I don't know. It's essential.
"I just ask you one thing. Be behind the team. We accept the verdict at the end of the season but there's something special in this team. We have a chance."Wenger went on to address the concentration of financial power among elite clubs in modern football, with Arsenal having failed to secure a Champions League spot for the first time in his 21-year reign last season.The 68-year-old suggested surprises such as Aston Villa's European Cup win in 1982 feel impossible nowadays.
That drew a heckle of "At least they won it," from one shareholder, but Wenger still closed by warmly outlining his affinity for the club – winning long applause before a hostile atmosphere returned for addresses by Keswick and chief executive Ivan Gazidis, during which the much-criticised Stan Kroenke was a passive observer on the top table.
"My hunger and commitment is bigger than ever. I question myself a lot and I will sit down every year with my board to see where I go from there," Wenger added.
"My hunger is absolutely huge. No matter what happens one day, I will always love this club forever and be a huge fan of this club."
Carabao Cup draw: Man Utd travel to Bristol City while Chelsea take on Bournemouth
Holders Manchester United will travel to Bristol City in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.
United, who defeated Swansea City 2-0 in the fourth round, will head to Ashton Gate to take on the Championship side, who downed Crystal Palace 4-1 in the previous round.
Elsewhere in the draw, which was delayed on two occasions due to a technical problem involving Twitter, Chelsea were drawn against Bournemouth while Arsenal were paired with West Ham.Five-time winners Chelsea secured their place in the last eight by defeating Everton 2-1 in the fourth round, whereas Bournemouth got the better of Middlesbrough in a 3-1 victory.
Arsenal fought back from a goal down to beat Norwich City 2-1 thanks to a double from youngster Eddie Nketiah last time out, whereas the Hammers also came from behind to beat Tottenham 3-2.
Spurs led 2-0 thanks to goals from Moussa Sissoko and Dele Alli, but an Andre Ayew brace and a goal from Angelo Ogbonna completed an incredible turnaround for West Ham.
Leicester City were also paired with Pep Guardiola's high-flying Manchester City in the quarter-final draw on Thursday.
Full draw below:
Chelsea vs. Bournemouth
Arsenal vs. West Ham
Leicester City vs. Manchester City
Bristol City vs. Manchester United
Holders Manchester United will travel to Bristol City in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.
United, who defeated Swansea City 2-0 in the fourth round, will head to Ashton Gate to take on the Championship side, who downed Crystal Palace 4-1 in the previous round.
Elsewhere in the draw, which was delayed on two occasions due to a technical problem involving Twitter, Chelsea were drawn against Bournemouth while Arsenal were paired with West Ham.Five-time winners Chelsea secured their place in the last eight by defeating Everton 2-1 in the fourth round, whereas Bournemouth got the better of Middlesbrough in a 3-1 victory.
Arsenal fought back from a goal down to beat Norwich City 2-1 thanks to a double from youngster Eddie Nketiah last time out, whereas the Hammers also came from behind to beat Tottenham 3-2.
Spurs led 2-0 thanks to goals from Moussa Sissoko and Dele Alli, but an Andre Ayew brace and a goal from Angelo Ogbonna completed an incredible turnaround for West Ham.
Leicester City were also paired with Pep Guardiola's high-flying Manchester City in the quarter-final draw on Thursday.
Full draw below:
Chelsea vs. Bournemouth
Arsenal vs. West Ham
Leicester City vs. Manchester City
Bristol City vs. Manchester United
