ow neda adai e match eka thiyenne.
Barcelona v Liverpool match eka ada bro(2nd May 2019.SL time 12.30AM)
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Tottenham 0 Ajax 1: Van de Beek strike puts Dutch side in charge
Ajax took a big step towards reaching their first Champions League final since 1996 as Donny van de Beek's early strike earned them a 1-0 first-leg advantage at Tottenham in their semi-final clash.Spurs, at this stage of the competition for the first time in over half a century, were overwhelmed in the opening stages and fortunate that Ajax's intricate passing and movement only resulted in the one goal.
Van de Beek scored that, having gathered Hakim Ziyech's precise pass before sitting down Hugo Lloris with a couple of feints prior to his finish.
The Eredivisie leaders almost scored a second on Tuesday only for David Neres' late effort to come back off a post, but they still took charge of the tie ahead of the return leg in Amsterdam next week.
Ajax wasted no time at all in stamping their authority on the contest and it was no surprise to see them take the lead in the 15th minute.Van de Beek, involved earlier in the move when he brilliantly flicked the ball away from Dele Alli, drifted between Jan Vertonghen and Danny Rose, collected Ziyech's pass and calmly placed his finish beyond Lloris.
There was no need for a VAR check as replays showed the midfielder was marginally onside and Ajax kept their foot on the accelerator, with Rose almost slicing into his own net and Van de Beek being denied by Lloris at his near post following a fine dummy.Spurs eventually responded and looked most threatening from free-kicks, Fernando Llorente and then Toby Alderweireld both directing Kieran Trippier set-pieces off target.
Yet, already shorn of the injured Harry Kane and suspended Son Heung-min, they were forced to reorganise again when a battered and bloodied Vertonghen had to come off having collided with Alderweireld's head.
That enforced introduction of Moussa Sissoko gave Spurs more midfield control and Alli twice came close before the hour, firing a volley straight at Andre Onana and then heading over.Yet opportunities such as those who were too infrequent from the hosts' perspective as their defensive work in chasing Ajax early on appeared to take its toll.
And they were fortunate the Dutch club did not leave London with a greater advantage as Neres' placed finish from a counter-attack with 12 minutes to go came back off a post with Lloris motionless.
Ajax took a big step towards reaching their first Champions League final since 1996 as Donny van de Beek's early strike earned them a 1-0 first-leg advantage at Tottenham in their semi-final clash.Spurs, at this stage of the competition for the first time in over half a century, were overwhelmed in the opening stages and fortunate that Ajax's intricate passing and movement only resulted in the one goal.
Van de Beek scored that, having gathered Hakim Ziyech's precise pass before sitting down Hugo Lloris with a couple of feints prior to his finish.
The Eredivisie leaders almost scored a second on Tuesday only for David Neres' late effort to come back off a post, but they still took charge of the tie ahead of the return leg in Amsterdam next week.
Ajax wasted no time at all in stamping their authority on the contest and it was no surprise to see them take the lead in the 15th minute.Van de Beek, involved earlier in the move when he brilliantly flicked the ball away from Dele Alli, drifted between Jan Vertonghen and Danny Rose, collected Ziyech's pass and calmly placed his finish beyond Lloris.
There was no need for a VAR check as replays showed the midfielder was marginally onside and Ajax kept their foot on the accelerator, with Rose almost slicing into his own net and Van de Beek being denied by Lloris at his near post following a fine dummy.Spurs eventually responded and looked most threatening from free-kicks, Fernando Llorente and then Toby Alderweireld both directing Kieran Trippier set-pieces off target.
Yet, already shorn of the injured Harry Kane and suspended Son Heung-min, they were forced to reorganise again when a battered and bloodied Vertonghen had to come off having collided with Alderweireld's head.
That enforced introduction of Moussa Sissoko gave Spurs more midfield control and Alli twice came close before the hour, firing a volley straight at Andre Onana and then heading over.Yet opportunities such as those who were too infrequent from the hosts' perspective as their defensive work in chasing Ajax early on appeared to take its toll.
And they were fortunate the Dutch club did not leave London with a greater advantage as Neres' placed finish from a counter-attack with 12 minutes to go came back off a post with Lloris motionless.
Montpellier 3 Paris Saint-Germain 2: Camara piles on misery for Tuchel's side
Paris Saint-Germain failed to bounce back from their Coupe de France final disappointment as they slipped to a 3-2 Ligue 1 defeat to Montpellier on Tuesday.
Thomas Tuchel's side threw away a two-goal lead to ultimately lose on penalties to Rennes on Saturday and never looked like returning to winning ways in a display characterised by woeful defending and scant attacking threat.
Ambroise Oyongo's own goal put them ahead after 12 minutes but Presnel Kimpembe – who endured a torrid game – put through his own net at the other end in the 21st minute to draw the hosts level.
Angel Di Maria had looked like securing just a second win in six games across all competitions for the Ligue 1 champions but, after missing a number of golden opportunities, Andy Delort showed superb composure in the 80th minute to draw Montpellier level.Substitute Souleymane Camara then took advantage of a Leandro Paredes error to fire past Gianluigi Buffon five minutes from time to secure a famous win.
PSG forged ahead with their first meaningful attack of the game after 12 minutes, Oyongo thumping Juan Bernat's low cross into his own net from inside the six-yard area.
There was more slapstick defending at the other end nine minutes later as the hosts pulled level. Damien Le Tallec's header from Florent Mollet's free-kick was heading well wide but ended up creeping into Buffon's bottom-right corner courtesy of Kimpembe's hand.
The veteran PSG goalkeeper rolled back the years soon after, turning Delort's fierce drive over and then superbly tipping Le Tallec's whipped effort wide before the former blazed over from just six yards.Tuchel's men looked sharper after the interval and retook the lead shortly after the hour mark. Di Maria audaciously pivoted around Benjamin Lecomte and fired into an empty net after Neymar had charged down Hilton's attempted clearance.
Pedro Mendes' superb clearance on the line denied Julian Draxler after 70 minutes before Delort set up a grandstand finish, latching onto Mollet's pass and clipping across a badly exposed Buffon.
Things were to get worse for PSG, though, when Paredes was caught in possession on the edge of his penalty area by Ellyes Skhiri, who teed up Camara to fire in from 12 yards and secure just Montpellier's second win in 18 league games against PSG.
Paris Saint-Germain failed to bounce back from their Coupe de France final disappointment as they slipped to a 3-2 Ligue 1 defeat to Montpellier on Tuesday.
Thomas Tuchel's side threw away a two-goal lead to ultimately lose on penalties to Rennes on Saturday and never looked like returning to winning ways in a display characterised by woeful defending and scant attacking threat.
Ambroise Oyongo's own goal put them ahead after 12 minutes but Presnel Kimpembe – who endured a torrid game – put through his own net at the other end in the 21st minute to draw the hosts level.
Angel Di Maria had looked like securing just a second win in six games across all competitions for the Ligue 1 champions but, after missing a number of golden opportunities, Andy Delort showed superb composure in the 80th minute to draw Montpellier level.Substitute Souleymane Camara then took advantage of a Leandro Paredes error to fire past Gianluigi Buffon five minutes from time to secure a famous win.
PSG forged ahead with their first meaningful attack of the game after 12 minutes, Oyongo thumping Juan Bernat's low cross into his own net from inside the six-yard area.
There was more slapstick defending at the other end nine minutes later as the hosts pulled level. Damien Le Tallec's header from Florent Mollet's free-kick was heading well wide but ended up creeping into Buffon's bottom-right corner courtesy of Kimpembe's hand.
The veteran PSG goalkeeper rolled back the years soon after, turning Delort's fierce drive over and then superbly tipping Le Tallec's whipped effort wide before the former blazed over from just six yards.Tuchel's men looked sharper after the interval and retook the lead shortly after the hour mark. Di Maria audaciously pivoted around Benjamin Lecomte and fired into an empty net after Neymar had charged down Hilton's attempted clearance.
Pedro Mendes' superb clearance on the line denied Julian Draxler after 70 minutes before Delort set up a grandstand finish, latching onto Mollet's pass and clipping across a badly exposed Buffon.
Things were to get worse for PSG, though, when Paredes was caught in possession on the edge of his penalty area by Ellyes Skhiri, who teed up Camara to fire in from 12 yards and secure just Montpellier's second win in 18 league games against PSG.
'It was a mistake' - Pochettino takes blame for slow Spurs start in Ajax defeat
Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged he made a "mistake" with his original set-up while adding it was a lack of energy, not tactics, that led to defeat against Ajax.Tottenham fell 1-0 to the Dutch side on Tuesday, leaving plenty of work to do next week in the second leg in Amsterdam.
In Tuesday's first leg in north London, Pochettino opted to start with three central defenders, with Davinson Sanchez, Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld in the middle and Kieran Trippier and Danny Rose deployed as wing-backs.
The decision came as a result of Spurs' injury and suspension issues, with regulars Harry Kane and Son Heung-min headlining the absentees.Ajax scored early through Donny van de Beek, who waded his way throuh the defence with plenty of time to finish and give his side the one goal neccesary to emerge victorious.
And while the decision to play three-at-the-back was one Pochettino regretted, he says his side also needed to show more fight early on to prevent conceding that valuable away goal."Watching now of course I can accept it was a mistake the shape we used. But there were not too many options," said Pochettino told BT Sport.
"I am not happy - you cannot guess what happens if we play in a different way. But our lack of energy... and a little sloppy."It was the not the shape that conceded the goal. Our approach to the game was not good. I am the manager so I have responsibility."
The plan shifted when Vertonghen was forced off with a concussion after collapsing on the field following a colission with Alderweireld when challenging for a header.
Vertonghen attempted to play on, but it was clear he was dealing with concussion symptoms, prompting the introduction of Moussa Sissokho.And the France international's presence helped steady the ship, though it was not enough for Spurs."First half we started not in a good way. Ajax showed more energy, it was difficult for us to play. It was our lack of energy," Pochettino said.
"After we conceded the goal - 25 to 30 minutes in - we started to be in the game. Moussa Sissoko provided good energy."Second half we pushed them and tried to create chances. It was an even game in the second half. We are alive. It's only 1-0 down. We need to believe we can go there and win the game."
Spurs and Ajax will meet again for the second leg on May 8 at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged he made a "mistake" with his original set-up while adding it was a lack of energy, not tactics, that led to defeat against Ajax.Tottenham fell 1-0 to the Dutch side on Tuesday, leaving plenty of work to do next week in the second leg in Amsterdam.
In Tuesday's first leg in north London, Pochettino opted to start with three central defenders, with Davinson Sanchez, Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld in the middle and Kieran Trippier and Danny Rose deployed as wing-backs.
The decision came as a result of Spurs' injury and suspension issues, with regulars Harry Kane and Son Heung-min headlining the absentees.Ajax scored early through Donny van de Beek, who waded his way throuh the defence with plenty of time to finish and give his side the one goal neccesary to emerge victorious.
And while the decision to play three-at-the-back was one Pochettino regretted, he says his side also needed to show more fight early on to prevent conceding that valuable away goal."Watching now of course I can accept it was a mistake the shape we used. But there were not too many options," said Pochettino told BT Sport.
"I am not happy - you cannot guess what happens if we play in a different way. But our lack of energy... and a little sloppy."It was the not the shape that conceded the goal. Our approach to the game was not good. I am the manager so I have responsibility."
The plan shifted when Vertonghen was forced off with a concussion after collapsing on the field following a colission with Alderweireld when challenging for a header.
Vertonghen attempted to play on, but it was clear he was dealing with concussion symptoms, prompting the introduction of Moussa Sissokho.And the France international's presence helped steady the ship, though it was not enough for Spurs."First half we started not in a good way. Ajax showed more energy, it was difficult for us to play. It was our lack of energy," Pochettino said.
"After we conceded the goal - 25 to 30 minutes in - we started to be in the game. Moussa Sissoko provided good energy."Second half we pushed them and tried to create chances. It was an even game in the second half. We are alive. It's only 1-0 down. We need to believe we can go there and win the game."
Spurs and Ajax will meet again for the second leg on May 8 at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
UEFA Champions League Semi-Final 2nd Leg Fixture 2019.05.01
UEFA Champions League Semi-Final 2nd Leg Fixture 2019.05.01
Barcelona Vs Liverpool
Barcelona 3 Liverpool 0: Messi brings up 600 Barca goals
Lionel Messi's late brace took him to 600 Barcelona goals and ensured the LaLiga club took charge of their Champions League semi-final tie against Liverpool with a 3-0 first-leg win.
Former Reds striker Luis Suarez, playing against his old club in a competitive game for the first time since he left for Catalonia in 2014, scored his first Champions League goal in over a year to give Barca a half-time advantage.James Milner was twice denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the second half - while Mohamed Salah was thwarted too - before Messi struck twice in seven minutes to bring up his milestone.
The first goal, a tap-in after Suarez had hit the crossbar, was followed by a brilliant 30-yard free-kick before Salah fired against the post with six minutes remaining as he missed a glorious chance to get a crucial away goal.
Roberto Firmino's ankle injury prevented him from starting and Georginio Wijnaldum was surprisingly deployed in a more advanced role.The Netherlands international released Sadio Mane to get the wrong side of Gerard Pique in the fifth minute, with the Barcelona defender bumbling the Liverpool forward over in the box, not that referee Bjorn Kuipers was interested in penalty appeals.
Jurgen Klopp was forced to alter his midfield plans again when Naby Keita came off with a suspected groin injury and, two minutes after Jordan Henderson came on as his replacement, one of the new arrival's former team-mates gave Barca the lead and celebrated with gusto.A raking Arturo Vidal pass found Philippe Coutinho and he shifted the ball onto Jordi Alba, whose driven cross was turned home by a sliding Suarez after he had timed his run between Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk perfectly.
Liverpool had a chance to hit back 10 minutes before the break when Mane again got behind Barcelona's backline, but the forward lifted his first-time finish over after being found by Henderson.
The Reds had not mustered a shot on target in the first period but they tested Ter Stegen twice in the early stages of the second, though Barcelona's goalkeeper denied Milner and then used a strong right hand to turn Salah's try behind.
Milner could not find a way past Ter Stegen again when he ran onto Salah's pass across the box following Wijnaldum's dummy, yet it was Barca who would strike next with 15 minutes to go.Suarez turned an effort onto the crossbar with his thigh and the ball came back towards Messi, who chested it down before passing into an empty net.
His 599th goal may have been routine but his 600th was not, a 30-yard free-kick brilliantly whipped into the top-left corner.
Substitute Firmino had an effort turned off the line by Ivan Rakitic and Salah somehow slammed the loose ball against the post as Liverpool sought an away goal – though they were fortunate Ousmane Dembele fluffed his lines with the last kick of the game.
Lionel Messi's late brace took him to 600 Barcelona goals and ensured the LaLiga club took charge of their Champions League semi-final tie against Liverpool with a 3-0 first-leg win.
Former Reds striker Luis Suarez, playing against his old club in a competitive game for the first time since he left for Catalonia in 2014, scored his first Champions League goal in over a year to give Barca a half-time advantage.James Milner was twice denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the second half - while Mohamed Salah was thwarted too - before Messi struck twice in seven minutes to bring up his milestone.
The first goal, a tap-in after Suarez had hit the crossbar, was followed by a brilliant 30-yard free-kick before Salah fired against the post with six minutes remaining as he missed a glorious chance to get a crucial away goal.
Roberto Firmino's ankle injury prevented him from starting and Georginio Wijnaldum was surprisingly deployed in a more advanced role.The Netherlands international released Sadio Mane to get the wrong side of Gerard Pique in the fifth minute, with the Barcelona defender bumbling the Liverpool forward over in the box, not that referee Bjorn Kuipers was interested in penalty appeals.
Jurgen Klopp was forced to alter his midfield plans again when Naby Keita came off with a suspected groin injury and, two minutes after Jordan Henderson came on as his replacement, one of the new arrival's former team-mates gave Barca the lead and celebrated with gusto.A raking Arturo Vidal pass found Philippe Coutinho and he shifted the ball onto Jordi Alba, whose driven cross was turned home by a sliding Suarez after he had timed his run between Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk perfectly.
Liverpool had a chance to hit back 10 minutes before the break when Mane again got behind Barcelona's backline, but the forward lifted his first-time finish over after being found by Henderson.
The Reds had not mustered a shot on target in the first period but they tested Ter Stegen twice in the early stages of the second, though Barcelona's goalkeeper denied Milner and then used a strong right hand to turn Salah's try behind.
Milner could not find a way past Ter Stegen again when he ran onto Salah's pass across the box following Wijnaldum's dummy, yet it was Barca who would strike next with 15 minutes to go.Suarez turned an effort onto the crossbar with his thigh and the ball came back towards Messi, who chested it down before passing into an empty net.
His 599th goal may have been routine but his 600th was not, a 30-yard free-kick brilliantly whipped into the top-left corner.
Substitute Firmino had an effort turned off the line by Ivan Rakitic and Salah somehow slammed the loose ball against the post as Liverpool sought an away goal – though they were fortunate Ousmane Dembele fluffed his lines with the last kick of the game.
'He's unstoppable' - Klopp not surprised by Messi's heroics against Liverpool
Lionel Messi was called "unstoppable" by Jurgen Klopp after the Barcelona forward scored twice in a 3-0 Champions League semi-final first-leg win over Liverpool.Despite keeping him quiet for the majority of the game at Camp Nou, Messi scored a seven-minute brace after Luis Suarez's opener on Wednesday to reach 600 goals for the club, who took a big step towards reaching the Champions League final thanks to their talisman.
Messi's first was a routine finish after the ball came back to him off the crossbar following Suarez's effort, but the second was a delicious whipped free-kick from 30 yards out.
That was his 600th goal for Barca 14 years on from his debut and it was another night where Messi proved to be pivotal for his team."In these moments, he's unstoppable," Klopp told a news conference.
"Obviously we couldn't defend the free-kick. What a strike. He's a world-class player."The second goal – the 2-0 – was probably not the nicest goal in the career of Lionel Messi but it shows his skills that he's there in that moment. But apart from that I was happy with how we defended.
"I'm a big admirer of him but my boys tonight didn't show too much respect. They were there, tried with completely legal things. We didn't treat him harshly or whatever to try to get him out of the game. We played just football and I like that.
"I knew before that Lionel is a world-class player and now I saw it again. I'm not too surprised, to be honest."Liverpool were largely on top after Suarez struck first, but Sadio Mane fired over from a one-on-one before James Milner – twice – and Mohamed Salah were denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Messi's late brace, which preceded Salah hitting the post, has now left Barcelona firmly in charge of the tie, with Klopp unwilling to sugar-coat the situation.
Asked if his team still have a chance to progress, Klopp replied: "Because it's football, yes, but before this game we had a bigger chance, let me say it like this."It's difficult. What can I say? It's Barcelona. That's difficult to avoid.
"Because it's football, we should still try but it's not a night for being really mouthy and saying, 'It's exactly what we wanted. It's half-time, score an early goal and all that s***'. It will be another really difficult game."
Lionel Messi was called "unstoppable" by Jurgen Klopp after the Barcelona forward scored twice in a 3-0 Champions League semi-final first-leg win over Liverpool.Despite keeping him quiet for the majority of the game at Camp Nou, Messi scored a seven-minute brace after Luis Suarez's opener on Wednesday to reach 600 goals for the club, who took a big step towards reaching the Champions League final thanks to their talisman.
Messi's first was a routine finish after the ball came back to him off the crossbar following Suarez's effort, but the second was a delicious whipped free-kick from 30 yards out.
That was his 600th goal for Barca 14 years on from his debut and it was another night where Messi proved to be pivotal for his team."In these moments, he's unstoppable," Klopp told a news conference.
"Obviously we couldn't defend the free-kick. What a strike. He's a world-class player."The second goal – the 2-0 – was probably not the nicest goal in the career of Lionel Messi but it shows his skills that he's there in that moment. But apart from that I was happy with how we defended.
"I'm a big admirer of him but my boys tonight didn't show too much respect. They were there, tried with completely legal things. We didn't treat him harshly or whatever to try to get him out of the game. We played just football and I like that.
"I knew before that Lionel is a world-class player and now I saw it again. I'm not too surprised, to be honest."Liverpool were largely on top after Suarez struck first, but Sadio Mane fired over from a one-on-one before James Milner – twice – and Mohamed Salah were denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Messi's late brace, which preceded Salah hitting the post, has now left Barcelona firmly in charge of the tie, with Klopp unwilling to sugar-coat the situation.
Asked if his team still have a chance to progress, Klopp replied: "Because it's football, yes, but before this game we had a bigger chance, let me say it like this."It's difficult. What can I say? It's Barcelona. That's difficult to avoid.
"Because it's football, we should still try but it's not a night for being really mouthy and saying, 'It's exactly what we wanted. It's half-time, score an early goal and all that s***'. It will be another really difficult game."
Doctors warn Casillas is unlikely to ever play professional football againDoctors have warned that Iker Casillas, who suffered a heart attack during training with Porto on Wednesday, might never play again due to the severity of the incident and the steps required to prevent another myocardial incident.
The 37-year-old goalkeeper was rushed to hospital following his collapse and was treated well enough in time to ensure he was out of danger, with the former Real Madrid man taking to social media to thank fans for their support.“All under control here,” he wrote from his hospital bed. “A bit of a shock but I'm full of strength. Thanks very much to everyone for the messages of support and love."
With Casillas seemingly on the mend, concern turned into curiosity as to when the Spain icon would return to the pitch.And while several medical professionals urged patience and caution, the prognosis seemed to be that 'Saint Iker' would not have to hang up his gloves for good.
“We will have to wait to see how his body heals and then study the results of the rigorous medical tests he will be put through,” Dr Jose Gonzalez told AS. “His heart could return to functioning as normal and he might have the chance to return to his profession.”
Cardiologist Jose Calabuig struck a similar tone between caution and optimism, telling Cadena SER's El Larguero: “Physically, if there is no scarring then there's a chance the muscle will heal. Within a timeframe of three to six months the situation can be assessed.
“It all goes well then he will certainly be able to return to work.”Calabuig, however, explained that Casillas would have to have a stent inserted, and a fellow medical practitioner contested that the former Spain No.1 would be able to return to work after such a procedure has been carried out.
“You cannot play football with a stent,” Juan Antonio Corbalan told RTVE. “And that particularly applies to a goalkeeper. Iker will end up returning to enjoy a normal life but I very much doubt he will play professional football again.”
Those thoughts were echoed by cardiologist Miguel Marina: “The first 24 hours will be key,” he told El Partidazo. “When he is discharged from hospital he will have to live life at a more relaxed pace and take things easy.
“He will also be on medication and then we'll see how things develop from there.”
Casillas advised to rest for up to two to three months after heart attackPorto goalkeeper Iker Casillas has been told he will require two to three months of rest and recuperation after his heart attack, Goal understands.
The 37-year-old was hospitalised on Wednesday after suffering the heart attack while training with Porto and required emergency surgery.Casillas, who is doing well and in stable condition, is expected to be released from the hospital on Saturday.
After his release, Casillas is expected to have daily follow-ups, while being placed on medication to aid his recovery.With a minimum two-month expected recovery time, the goalkeeper will be sidelined for the remainder of Porto’s season.
“All under control here,” Casillas wrote from his hospital bed. “A bit of a shock but I'm full of strength. Thanks very much to everyone for the messages of support and love."The future for Casillas is uncertain, even after his expected recovery time.
Some doctors have insisted a return to football is unlikely for the 37-year-old former Spain international, while even some at Porto believe he should hang up his gloves.However, there has been no decision made yet on the goalkeeper, who has a contract through 2020 and an option for another year beyond, with Porto doctors saying that will be discussed at a later time.
"It will also depend on his willingness to continue," Nélson Puga, the Portuguese club's doctor, said in an interview with Porto Canal. "It is only after much dialogue that we will decide whether to continue.”One of the most decorated goalkeepers in Real Madrid history, Casillas joined Porto in 2015 and has won one Liga title with the Portuguese giants.
Prior to that, he was a five-time La Liga winner with Real Madrid, as well taking the Champions League crown three times with the capital club and the Copa del Rey twice.
The former Madrid captain also was between the posts for Spain when the nation won its first ever World Cup in 2010 in South Africa.Casillas also won the 2008 and 2012 European Championship with La Roja.He recently signed a two-year extension with Porto in March after guiding the club to the Champions League knockout stages once more.
Messi in Spain squad would have been a dream - Del BosqueFormer Spain head coach Vicente del Bosque says it would have been "a dream" to have Lionel Messi in his squad at international level.Barcelona star Messi, who joined the club's academy in 2001, was eligible to play for Spain and Argentina but opted to represent the country of his birth.His international career has been a relative disappointment compared to his club achievements, with Argentina having lost three Copa America finals and the World Cup final of 2014 with Messi in the side.
The 31-year-old has enjoyed astounding success with Barca, though, and his latest spectacular performance on Wednesday saw him reach 600 club goals with a double against Liverpool to inspire a 3-0 triumph in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final.
And Del Bosque, who guided Spain to glory at the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, admits he would have loved the opportunity to have Messi in his team had the Royal Spanish Football Federation convinced him to play for La Roja.
"The Federation made every effort to get Messi to play for Spain," he told Radio Villa Trinidad."Lionel refused because he loves his country. His arrival would have been for the best.
"Messi is Messi - there is only one. It would have been a dream to coach him."Messi has scored 48 goals in all competitions this season to inspire Barca's treble pursuit.
Having already won La Liga, they face Valencia in the Copa del Rey final this month and are now firm favourites to reach another Champions League final, where they will face either Tottenham or Ajax at the Wanda Metropolitano in Madrid on June 1.
Doctors have warned that Iker Casillas, who suffered a heart attack during training with Porto on Wednesday, might never play again due to the severity of the incident and the steps required to prevent another myocardial incident.
The 37-year-old goalkeeper was rushed to hospital following his collapse and was treated well enough in time to ensure he was out of danger, with the former Real Madrid man taking to social media to thank fans for their support.“All under control here,” he wrote from his hospital bed. “A bit of a shock but I'm full of strength. Thanks very much to everyone for the messages of support and love."
With Casillas seemingly on the mend, concern turned into curiosity as to when the Spain icon would return to the pitch.And while several medical professionals urged patience and caution, the prognosis seemed to be that 'Saint Iker' would not have to hang up his gloves for good.
“We will have to wait to see how his body heals and then study the results of the rigorous medical tests he will be put through,” Dr Jose Gonzalez told AS. “His heart could return to functioning as normal and he might have the chance to return to his profession.”
Cardiologist Jose Calabuig struck a similar tone between caution and optimism, telling Cadena SER's El Larguero: “Physically, if there is no scarring then there's a chance the muscle will heal. Within a timeframe of three to six months the situation can be assessed.
“It all goes well then he will certainly be able to return to work.”Calabuig, however, explained that Casillas would have to have a stent inserted, and a fellow medical practitioner contested that the former Spain No.1 would be able to return to work after such a procedure has been carried out.
“You cannot play football with a stent,” Juan Antonio Corbalan told RTVE. “And that particularly applies to a goalkeeper. Iker will end up returning to enjoy a normal life but I very much doubt he will play professional football again.”
Those thoughts were echoed by cardiologist Miguel Marina: “The first 24 hours will be key,” he told El Partidazo. “When he is discharged from hospital he will have to live life at a more relaxed pace and take things easy.
“He will also be on medication and then we'll see how things develop from there.”
get well soon legend
Godak welawata aye play karanne nathiwei. Farewell game ekak wage play karai samahara wita.
Get well soon Saint Iker.
'If I was Man City I would be looking at Rice' - Walters backs West Ham midfielder for the top
Manchester City have been urged to sign Declan Rice after the West Ham midfielder was backed to go ‘right to the top’ by Jonathan Walters.
Rice’s future has been up in the air for some time now with rumours circulating about a number of top-six clubs looking to lure the England international away from the London Stadium.Premier League leaders City have been linked with an approach, but local rivals United have been mooted as favourites to sign the 20-year-old as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer prepares for a summer squad rebuild.
Walters is not surprised by the level of interest in Rice and believes the holding midfielder would be an ideal recruit for Pep Guardiola’s City side.“In my opinion he can go right to the top and without a shadow of a doubt he’s a target for the big teams, whether that be Manchester United or anyone else," said Walters, speaking exclusively to 888Sport.
“If I was Manchester City I would be looking at him (Rice) because of the position that he plays where he can sit in front of that back four and do an unbelievable job.“He’s available for the ball and right foot, left foot he deals with it. His passing is simple but he’s got a range.
“He covers a lot of ground and breaks up attacks. He can take players on. He is an ultimate player in that role and I’d be surprised if plenty of clubs aren’t in for him this summer.”Rice came under fire earlier this season after declaring for England, despite coming through the Republic of Ireland set-up at youth level and playing three games for the senior side.
Regarding that decision, former Ireland international Walters said: “I know Declan pretty well because obviously I was involved in the Irish set-up with him. “I spoke at length with him on his decision – both before and after – and I was desperate for him to declare for Ireland.
“He has gone with what he feels and you can’t argue with what someone feels.You could argue with the fact that he maybe shouldn’t have played in the first place but not with what he feels.
“It takes courage to make such a decision and he has made it and that doesn’t change my thoughts of him.“I still think he’s a great guy and unbelievable player.”
Manchester City have been urged to sign Declan Rice after the West Ham midfielder was backed to go ‘right to the top’ by Jonathan Walters.
Rice’s future has been up in the air for some time now with rumours circulating about a number of top-six clubs looking to lure the England international away from the London Stadium.Premier League leaders City have been linked with an approach, but local rivals United have been mooted as favourites to sign the 20-year-old as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer prepares for a summer squad rebuild.
Walters is not surprised by the level of interest in Rice and believes the holding midfielder would be an ideal recruit for Pep Guardiola’s City side.“In my opinion he can go right to the top and without a shadow of a doubt he’s a target for the big teams, whether that be Manchester United or anyone else," said Walters, speaking exclusively to 888Sport.
“If I was Manchester City I would be looking at him (Rice) because of the position that he plays where he can sit in front of that back four and do an unbelievable job.“He’s available for the ball and right foot, left foot he deals with it. His passing is simple but he’s got a range.
“He covers a lot of ground and breaks up attacks. He can take players on. He is an ultimate player in that role and I’d be surprised if plenty of clubs aren’t in for him this summer.”Rice came under fire earlier this season after declaring for England, despite coming through the Republic of Ireland set-up at youth level and playing three games for the senior side.
Regarding that decision, former Ireland international Walters said: “I know Declan pretty well because obviously I was involved in the Irish set-up with him. “I spoke at length with him on his decision – both before and after – and I was desperate for him to declare for Ireland.
“He has gone with what he feels and you can’t argue with what someone feels.You could argue with the fact that he maybe shouldn’t have played in the first place but not with what he feels.
“It takes courage to make such a decision and he has made it and that doesn’t change my thoughts of him.“I still think he’s a great guy and unbelievable player.”
'We have to take responsibility' - Herrera says players must own Man Utd's disappointing seasonManchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has said that the players must accept the responsibility for the club’s disappointing season, and the sacking of Jose Mourinho.Hererra stated that his team-mates felt disappointed about their second consecutive season without a trophy.He also backed his fellow Spaniard David de Gea to bounce back from his recent slump in form.
“I don’t like to talk personally, I like to talk as a group,” the 29-year-old told the club’s website.“I think football is a team sport. I think you have to analyse the season from the team point of view and we are disappointed.
“To be honest, when a manger is sacked, for me it’s also the responsibility of the players. We have to take responsibility for it – it’s not only the manager and the staff.“The players have a big responsibility and that’s why I think we should all feel disappointed because we haven’t been able to achieve the objectives for the club.“For me the objectives for this club for every season should be fighting for the titles and we haven’t fought for them so let’s take responsibility every player.
“Of course [De Gea] is disappointed because no-one wants to make mistakes but if someone at this club is allowed to it’s David. He’s given us a lot of points in the last few years, he’s been crucial for us – probably our best player for the last seven or eight years.“So, no problem at all, he’ll be there helping us in the last two games.”
United must win those last games to have a shot at finishing in the top four of the Premier League and qualify for next year’s Champions League.Herrera said that the Red Devils were in with a chance and would be fighting to make the top four, not focusing on top four rivals Chelsea’s result.
“We’re still going to fight for it. Of course, at the moment, it’s in the hands of Chelsea but we still have six points to play for.“They have the Europa League in between both weeks, so we’re going to fight for it.
“We are disappointed because we should have won at the weekend. We played good enough to win the game.“Football sometimes is like this where you have to wait for results. The only thing we can do is try to win both games, first of all Huddersfield away.
“Don’t go crazy about Chelsea’s game, just think about ourselves. If we get three points, we’ll have time after the game to think about it.”
Arsenal 3 Valencia 1: Lacazette brace turns first leg on its head
Alexandre Lacazette scored twice as Arsenal came from behind to beat Valencia 3-1 at home in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final.
Mouctar Diakhaby headed Valencia into an early lead at Emirates Stadium on Thursday but within 14 minutes the Gunners had turned the tie around.Lacazette first finished off a swift counter-attack involving Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before heading home Granit Xhaka's cross to put Unai Emery's men in front.
And the Spaniard, a three-time winner of the competition with Sevilla, will take a two-goal lead back to former club Valencia for next week's second leg after Aubameyang struck late on.
Arsenal trailed in the 11th minute, having already failed to heed a warning from a Dani Parejo set piece that was eventually turned over the crossbar by Ezequiel Garay.His defensive colleague Diakhaby would not make the same mistake, nodding in at the back post when Rodrigo Moreno headed Parejo's corner back across goal, but Valencia's advantage did not last long.
Ozil and Lacazette combined well to send Aubameyang through with the Gabon international superbly teeing up his strike partner to tuck home.
And Arsenal took the lead in the 25th minute, with Lacazette's downward header from a fine left-wing Xhaka cross parried into his own goal by Neto, via the post.
Parejo's free-kick flew over the crossbar while Lacazette somehow missed a golden chance to seal his hat-trick by failing to connect with Aubameyang's centre.
Lacazette wasted an even clearer opportunity in the 68th minute, firing straight at Neto from close-range and again failing to beat the goalkeeper on the rebound.
Petr Cech denied Kevin Gameiro and the striker volleyed over as Valencia launched a late rally.
It was Arsenal who struck a potentially decisive blow, though. Neto kept out Lacazette brilliantly but was unable to stop Aubameyang from turning home Sead Kolasinac's deep cross.
Alexandre Lacazette scored twice as Arsenal came from behind to beat Valencia 3-1 at home in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final.
Mouctar Diakhaby headed Valencia into an early lead at Emirates Stadium on Thursday but within 14 minutes the Gunners had turned the tie around.Lacazette first finished off a swift counter-attack involving Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before heading home Granit Xhaka's cross to put Unai Emery's men in front.
And the Spaniard, a three-time winner of the competition with Sevilla, will take a two-goal lead back to former club Valencia for next week's second leg after Aubameyang struck late on.
Arsenal trailed in the 11th minute, having already failed to heed a warning from a Dani Parejo set piece that was eventually turned over the crossbar by Ezequiel Garay.His defensive colleague Diakhaby would not make the same mistake, nodding in at the back post when Rodrigo Moreno headed Parejo's corner back across goal, but Valencia's advantage did not last long.
Ozil and Lacazette combined well to send Aubameyang through with the Gabon international superbly teeing up his strike partner to tuck home.
And Arsenal took the lead in the 25th minute, with Lacazette's downward header from a fine left-wing Xhaka cross parried into his own goal by Neto, via the post.
Parejo's free-kick flew over the crossbar while Lacazette somehow missed a golden chance to seal his hat-trick by failing to connect with Aubameyang's centre.
Lacazette wasted an even clearer opportunity in the 68th minute, firing straight at Neto from close-range and again failing to beat the goalkeeper on the rebound.
Petr Cech denied Kevin Gameiro and the striker volleyed over as Valencia launched a late rally.
It was Arsenal who struck a potentially decisive blow, though. Neto kept out Lacazette brilliantly but was unable to stop Aubameyang from turning home Sead Kolasinac's deep cross.
Eintracht Frankfurt 1 Chelsea 1: Pedro on target as Sarri's men impress
Pedro netted a potentially crucial away goal as Chelsea quelled Eintracht Frankfurt in a 1-1 Europa League semi-final draw at Commerzbank-Arena.
Luka Jovic enhanced his growing reputation by scoring his 26th goal of the season, a fabulous header that put Eintracht ahead after 23 minutes of the first leg.But Maurizio Sarri's men turned the tide and Pedro struck amid a flurry of late first-half pressure.
David Luiz hit the crossbar with a free-kick and the rested Eden Hazard was sent on after the hour mark to try to force an elusive winner, although the Premier League side remain well positioned to seal their place in the final in Baku.Roared on by a ferocious home crowd, Eintracht made a positive start and captain David Abraham should have raised the roof when he blazed over unmarked from Danny da Costa's 21st-minute set-piece.
Star forward Jovic proved typically more reliable from a far trickier chance, brilliantly glancing Filip Kostic's left-wing cross into the bottom-right corner.Eintracht's poise deserted them during the closing minutes of the first half and, after twice going close himself, Ruben Loftus-Cheek showed supreme strength and close control as he set up Pedro to lash home.
The England midfielder was to the fore again in the 54th minute, powering smoothly through the Frankfurt half and exchanging passes with Pedro, although he could not find the finish to match.
Chelsea were in command as the hour approached and David Luiz cracked a free-kick from 25 yards against the bar, before Hazard entered the fray in place of Willian in the 61st minute.Eintracht goalkeeper Kevin Trapp parried to deny Loftus-Cheek the goal his endeavours deserved and held a David Luiz header.
Abraham nodded an 85th-minute chance over - it was Eintracht's first opening for some time and would have been an incredibly fortunate winner.
Pedro netted a potentially crucial away goal as Chelsea quelled Eintracht Frankfurt in a 1-1 Europa League semi-final draw at Commerzbank-Arena.
Luka Jovic enhanced his growing reputation by scoring his 26th goal of the season, a fabulous header that put Eintracht ahead after 23 minutes of the first leg.But Maurizio Sarri's men turned the tide and Pedro struck amid a flurry of late first-half pressure.
David Luiz hit the crossbar with a free-kick and the rested Eden Hazard was sent on after the hour mark to try to force an elusive winner, although the Premier League side remain well positioned to seal their place in the final in Baku.Roared on by a ferocious home crowd, Eintracht made a positive start and captain David Abraham should have raised the roof when he blazed over unmarked from Danny da Costa's 21st-minute set-piece.
Star forward Jovic proved typically more reliable from a far trickier chance, brilliantly glancing Filip Kostic's left-wing cross into the bottom-right corner.Eintracht's poise deserted them during the closing minutes of the first half and, after twice going close himself, Ruben Loftus-Cheek showed supreme strength and close control as he set up Pedro to lash home.
The England midfielder was to the fore again in the 54th minute, powering smoothly through the Frankfurt half and exchanging passes with Pedro, although he could not find the finish to match.
Chelsea were in command as the hour approached and David Luiz cracked a free-kick from 25 yards against the bar, before Hazard entered the fray in place of Willian in the 61st minute.Eintracht goalkeeper Kevin Trapp parried to deny Loftus-Cheek the goal his endeavours deserved and held a David Luiz header.
Abraham nodded an 85th-minute chance over - it was Eintracht's first opening for some time and would have been an incredibly fortunate winner.
Lacazette wins Arsenal Player of the Year award
Alexandre Lacazette has won Arsenal’s Player of the Year award, winning 35 per cent of the votes cast by the London club’s supporters.The Gunners announced the French striker’s triumph on Friday morning, the day after he scored two goals in their 3-1 Europa League semi-final first leg victory over Valencia.
It brought his total on the season to 18 in all competitions, to go along with nine assists for Unai Emery's squad this term.
His goals and assists in big games have enabled Arsenal to maintain a top-four challenge in the Premier League as well as competing for the Europe League title and the club’s announcement paid tribute to the vital nature of the striker’s contributions this year.“If the mark of an elite forward is to make the difference when their team needs it most, then take a quick glance at Laca’s campaign,” the statement reads .
“Goals against Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea and Valencia only tell half the story, as do his assists against Manchester United both home and away.“For while they underline Laca’s status as a big-game player, it is perhaps more telling to look at when the majority of his 18 goals have been scored to understand just how important he has been.
“Of his 18 goals this season, 11 have given us the lead in the match – and we’ve gone on to win 10 of those matches. The outlier was the 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates in November when his tenacity, composure and clinical finishing sealed a very hard-earned point.”
The club also hailed the 27-year-old’s other contributions, and his ability to enjoy the game, despite its high-pressure nature.
“It is also down to the force of his personality, his ability to lift the team and the crowd with a simple chase back to win the ball, lung-busting run at goal or threading of an eye-of-the-needle pass. Or the fact that he simply appears to be having so much fun, whether that’s in shooting practice on the training ground or doing an UnClassic commentary with [Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang]
“Football may be a serious business, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. And Laca has fun, lots of it – but he remains a serious talent, and a deserved winner of our Player of the Season for 2018-19.”
Arsenal host Brighton and visit Burnley in their final two Premier League games of the season as they try to close the two point gap to rivals Chelsea for fourth place.
However, they can still qualify for the Champions League with a Europa League crown, and will play the second leg in Spain next Thursday, with a possible final against Chelsea or Eintracht Frankfurt to take place May 29 in Baku.
Alexandre Lacazette has won Arsenal’s Player of the Year award, winning 35 per cent of the votes cast by the London club’s supporters.The Gunners announced the French striker’s triumph on Friday morning, the day after he scored two goals in their 3-1 Europa League semi-final first leg victory over Valencia.
It brought his total on the season to 18 in all competitions, to go along with nine assists for Unai Emery's squad this term.
His goals and assists in big games have enabled Arsenal to maintain a top-four challenge in the Premier League as well as competing for the Europe League title and the club’s announcement paid tribute to the vital nature of the striker’s contributions this year.“If the mark of an elite forward is to make the difference when their team needs it most, then take a quick glance at Laca’s campaign,” the statement reads .
“Goals against Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea and Valencia only tell half the story, as do his assists against Manchester United both home and away.“For while they underline Laca’s status as a big-game player, it is perhaps more telling to look at when the majority of his 18 goals have been scored to understand just how important he has been.
“Of his 18 goals this season, 11 have given us the lead in the match – and we’ve gone on to win 10 of those matches. The outlier was the 1-1 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates in November when his tenacity, composure and clinical finishing sealed a very hard-earned point.”
The club also hailed the 27-year-old’s other contributions, and his ability to enjoy the game, despite its high-pressure nature.
“It is also down to the force of his personality, his ability to lift the team and the crowd with a simple chase back to win the ball, lung-busting run at goal or threading of an eye-of-the-needle pass. Or the fact that he simply appears to be having so much fun, whether that’s in shooting practice on the training ground or doing an UnClassic commentary with [Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang]
“Football may be a serious business, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. And Laca has fun, lots of it – but he remains a serious talent, and a deserved winner of our Player of the Season for 2018-19.”
Arsenal host Brighton and visit Burnley in their final two Premier League games of the season as they try to close the two point gap to rivals Chelsea for fourth place.
However, they can still qualify for the Champions League with a Europa League crown, and will play the second leg in Spain next Thursday, with a possible final against Chelsea or Eintracht Frankfurt to take place May 29 in Baku.
'We're supposed to sign 250 players!' - Solskjaer confident of transfers despite lack of Champions League football
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is confident the club will still be able to attract top-quality talent despite the possible absence of Champions League football.
The Red Devils are sixth in the Premier League with two matches of the 2018-19 campaign remaining, three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with an inferior goal difference.
Solskjaer has been tipped to oversee a squad overhaul this summer, with a wide range of domestic and European targets mooted, after a disappointing season at Old Trafford.
It has been suggested that major signings might be difficult for the Red Devils to sanction without a seat at European football's top table, but the Norwegian coach is not considering such a scenario."I'll have a final say if a player comes in or goes out," Solskjaer said at a press conference on Friday.
"And we've got regular meetings. I'm happy with the way it's going and we're supposed to sign 250 players because you're all writing about players we should sign, so hopefully, we can get players in you have written about as well. So you never know.
"In the long-term planning, we have to think about [the Champions League]. We might be in the Champions League next year, we might not be and you'd be surprised how many agents have been touting their players.
"Not touting, that's not the best word, is it? Telling us their players, their clients would love to be a part of Man United in the future. And that's just the lure of Man United, they know, the potential and size of the club, they know in the end that we will get back to the good days.
"We're having a tough time at the moment, in the last few seasons, we've not gone up to the standards we expect but it's up to me and the club to change it as quickly as possible if it's a season without Champions League, who knows."But players still want to come to Man United and you wouldn't be surprised by the names that you get asked."
The United manager was speaking ahead of a crucial trip to Huddersfield in the Premier League on Sunday, which is a must-win game for his team to stay within touch of the final Champions League spot.
The Red Devils wrap up their season at home to Cardiff City on May 12 and beyond that, a number of current stars could be set for summer exits.
Antonio Valencia, Ander Herrera and Juan Mata are all approaching the final weeks of their current contracts, while Matteo Darmian and Marcos Rojo have been deemed surplus to requirements.However, Solskjaer gave a diplomatic response when quizzed on the future of certain members of his squad, as he stated: "You learn about them every single day.
"You get positive and negative surprises all the time, so of course every day here is chance to be part of the rebuild of Man United, definitely."
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is confident the club will still be able to attract top-quality talent despite the possible absence of Champions League football.
The Red Devils are sixth in the Premier League with two matches of the 2018-19 campaign remaining, three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea with an inferior goal difference.
Solskjaer has been tipped to oversee a squad overhaul this summer, with a wide range of domestic and European targets mooted, after a disappointing season at Old Trafford.
It has been suggested that major signings might be difficult for the Red Devils to sanction without a seat at European football's top table, but the Norwegian coach is not considering such a scenario."I'll have a final say if a player comes in or goes out," Solskjaer said at a press conference on Friday.
"And we've got regular meetings. I'm happy with the way it's going and we're supposed to sign 250 players because you're all writing about players we should sign, so hopefully, we can get players in you have written about as well. So you never know.
"In the long-term planning, we have to think about [the Champions League]. We might be in the Champions League next year, we might not be and you'd be surprised how many agents have been touting their players.
"Not touting, that's not the best word, is it? Telling us their players, their clients would love to be a part of Man United in the future. And that's just the lure of Man United, they know, the potential and size of the club, they know in the end that we will get back to the good days.
"We're having a tough time at the moment, in the last few seasons, we've not gone up to the standards we expect but it's up to me and the club to change it as quickly as possible if it's a season without Champions League, who knows."But players still want to come to Man United and you wouldn't be surprised by the names that you get asked."
The United manager was speaking ahead of a crucial trip to Huddersfield in the Premier League on Sunday, which is a must-win game for his team to stay within touch of the final Champions League spot.
The Red Devils wrap up their season at home to Cardiff City on May 12 and beyond that, a number of current stars could be set for summer exits.
Antonio Valencia, Ander Herrera and Juan Mata are all approaching the final weeks of their current contracts, while Matteo Darmian and Marcos Rojo have been deemed surplus to requirements.However, Solskjaer gave a diplomatic response when quizzed on the future of certain members of his squad, as he stated: "You learn about them every single day.
"You get positive and negative surprises all the time, so of course every day here is chance to be part of the rebuild of Man United, definitely."
Manchester United sqaud ekenam aniwaryen loku wenasak karanna wei Summer eke
nathuwa nam baha next season ekewath hoda fight ekak denna.Sanchez nam godak durata yai.Martial ge future ekath sure naha & Pogba
Backline ekenuth Rojo,Smalling,Jones,Darmian,Young ge Manchester United futures unath doubt.
