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..::Football IV::..
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Iye lingard play Kare nathi eka hodai,lingard main reason ekak team performance bahinna matanum hithenne,brunoge individual performance ekata wada team performance ekata Dena contribution eka thamai godak important Mata hithenne
Real Betis 2-1 Real Madrid: Ex-Barcelona forward Tello leaves Los Blancos still second
Real Madrid missed the opportunity to return to the top of the table in LaLiga as they fell to a late 2-1 defeat at Real Betis on Sunday.
Zinedine Zidane's side had climbed to the summit with their Clasico defeat of Barcelona last week, but they slipped back below their bitter rivals after Quique Setien's men triumphed on Saturday and could not reclaim first place following a below-par display in Seville.
Indeed, Madrid would have been fortunate to emerge with even a point, as Betis enjoyed the better of the contest and led through Sidnei, only for the defender to swiftly concede a penalty at the other end that Karim Benzema scored.
Former Barca winger Cristian Tello netted with eight minutes remaining, though, and Los Blancos' have now won just once – against the Blaugrana – in their past five matches in all competitions, with Betis picking up their first win in seven top-flight games.
Madrid controlled a low-key opening but only Vinicius Junior's low shot wide threatened Joel Robles' goal, while Marc Bartra should then have headed Betis in front when a set-piece pinballed his way and the defender missed the target from point-blank range.
The hosts built up a head of steam as Thibaut Courtois produced a strong stop from Nabil Fekir's first-time strike, and Madrid were behind five minutes before half-time.
Fekir appealed for a spot-kick as he appeared to be felled by Casemiro just inside the area, but Sidnei marched onto the loose ball and sent a thunderous drive into the top-right corner.
The visitors were level heading into the break, though, as Sidnei hacked at Marcelo in the middle of the Betis box, prompting a penalty that Benzema coolly tucked away.
Joaquin had a golden chance to restore Betis' lead 10 minutes after the restart, but the veteran looked to square to Sergio Canales rather than finish into an empty net after rounding Courtois on the counter, allowing the recovering Luka Modric to clear.
A rare Madrid foray saw Robles parry clear Modric's effort and then watch Ferland Mendy's sublime follow-up bounce away off the crossbar, yet the latest slack piece of play from Zidane's side led to the winner.
Andres Guardado pounced on Benzema's wayward pass and fed substitute Tello to send Courtois the wrong way, with Betis subsequently holding firm amid considerable late pressure.
Real Madrid missed the opportunity to return to the top of the table in LaLiga as they fell to a late 2-1 defeat at Real Betis on Sunday.
Zinedine Zidane's side had climbed to the summit with their Clasico defeat of Barcelona last week, but they slipped back below their bitter rivals after Quique Setien's men triumphed on Saturday and could not reclaim first place following a below-par display in Seville.
Indeed, Madrid would have been fortunate to emerge with even a point, as Betis enjoyed the better of the contest and led through Sidnei, only for the defender to swiftly concede a penalty at the other end that Karim Benzema scored.
Former Barca winger Cristian Tello netted with eight minutes remaining, though, and Los Blancos' have now won just once – against the Blaugrana – in their past five matches in all competitions, with Betis picking up their first win in seven top-flight games.
Madrid controlled a low-key opening but only Vinicius Junior's low shot wide threatened Joel Robles' goal, while Marc Bartra should then have headed Betis in front when a set-piece pinballed his way and the defender missed the target from point-blank range.
The hosts built up a head of steam as Thibaut Courtois produced a strong stop from Nabil Fekir's first-time strike, and Madrid were behind five minutes before half-time.
Fekir appealed for a spot-kick as he appeared to be felled by Casemiro just inside the area, but Sidnei marched onto the loose ball and sent a thunderous drive into the top-right corner.
The visitors were level heading into the break, though, as Sidnei hacked at Marcelo in the middle of the Betis box, prompting a penalty that Benzema coolly tucked away.
Joaquin had a golden chance to restore Betis' lead 10 minutes after the restart, but the veteran looked to square to Sergio Canales rather than finish into an empty net after rounding Courtois on the counter, allowing the recovering Luka Modric to clear.
A rare Madrid foray saw Robles parry clear Modric's effort and then watch Ferland Mendy's sublime follow-up bounce away off the crossbar, yet the latest slack piece of play from Zidane's side led to the winner.
Andres Guardado pounced on Benzema's wayward pass and fed substitute Tello to send Courtois the wrong way, with Betis subsequently holding firm amid considerable late pressure.
Juventus 2-0 Inter: Ramsey & Dybala strike to send champions top
Juventus returned to the top of Serie A after goals from Aaron Ramsey and Paulo Dybala earned them a 2-0 Derby D'Italia victory over Inter at an empty Allianz Stadium.
Maurizio Sarri's side were clinical in a surreal atmosphere – supporters have been barred from attending matches until April 3 amid coronavirus precautions – securing a third consecutive league win after Ramsey netted for the second game running, while substitute Dybala doubled the hosts lead with a scintillating strike.
Cristiano Ronaldo failed to find the net for the first time in 12 league matches on a night when he could have set a new Serie A record goalscoring streak, the Portugal star missing two excellent late chances.
Samir Handanovic, on his return from a hairline fracture of his finger, made a smart reaction save to keep out Matthijs de Ligt's close-range header after seven minutes, and Ronaldo then fired a shot into his midriff from 20 yards.
Juve's strong start continued, with Blaise Matuidi's angled drive forcing Handanovic into a low, diving stop, while Inter were restricted to shots over the crossbar from distance by Nicolo Barella and Antonio Candreva.
Marcelo Brozovic gave the champions their first real scare when he struck a curling effort towards goal from outside the box that Wojciech Szczesny parried away, ensuring the sides went in level at the interval.
Juve's breakthrough came nine minutes after the restart when Alex Sandro played Matuidi into the box and his cross was blocked by Alessandro Bastoni, only for Ramsey to pounce on the loose ball and fire it in off Stefan de Vrij's leg from six yards.
Dybala replaced Douglas Costa five minutes later and soon made his mark on the game, immaculately trapping a long pass before exchanging a one-two with Ramsey, turning Ashley Young inside the box and firing into the corner of the net with the outside of his left foot.
Conte threw on Christian Eriksen as Inter sought a way back into the game and he sent a rising drive narrowly over Szczesny's crossbar, but the visitors' evening took another turn for the worse when Daniele Padelli was sent off from the bench following Brozovic's foul on Matuidi.
Ronaldo fired two late shots narrowly wide of the target as he just missed out on claiming another piece of history, but the night nonetheless belonged to Juve.
Juventus returned to the top of Serie A after goals from Aaron Ramsey and Paulo Dybala earned them a 2-0 Derby D'Italia victory over Inter at an empty Allianz Stadium.
Maurizio Sarri's side were clinical in a surreal atmosphere – supporters have been barred from attending matches until April 3 amid coronavirus precautions – securing a third consecutive league win after Ramsey netted for the second game running, while substitute Dybala doubled the hosts lead with a scintillating strike.
Cristiano Ronaldo failed to find the net for the first time in 12 league matches on a night when he could have set a new Serie A record goalscoring streak, the Portugal star missing two excellent late chances.
Samir Handanovic, on his return from a hairline fracture of his finger, made a smart reaction save to keep out Matthijs de Ligt's close-range header after seven minutes, and Ronaldo then fired a shot into his midriff from 20 yards.
Juve's strong start continued, with Blaise Matuidi's angled drive forcing Handanovic into a low, diving stop, while Inter were restricted to shots over the crossbar from distance by Nicolo Barella and Antonio Candreva.
Marcelo Brozovic gave the champions their first real scare when he struck a curling effort towards goal from outside the box that Wojciech Szczesny parried away, ensuring the sides went in level at the interval.
Juve's breakthrough came nine minutes after the restart when Alex Sandro played Matuidi into the box and his cross was blocked by Alessandro Bastoni, only for Ramsey to pounce on the loose ball and fire it in off Stefan de Vrij's leg from six yards.
Dybala replaced Douglas Costa five minutes later and soon made his mark on the game, immaculately trapping a long pass before exchanging a one-two with Ramsey, turning Ashley Young inside the box and firing into the corner of the net with the outside of his left foot.
Conte threw on Christian Eriksen as Inter sought a way back into the game and he sent a rising drive narrowly over Szczesny's crossbar, but the visitors' evening took another turn for the worse when Daniele Padelli was sent off from the bench following Brozovic's foul on Matuidi.
Ronaldo fired two late shots narrowly wide of the target as he just missed out on claiming another piece of history, but the night nonetheless belonged to Juve.
Manchester United 2-0 Manchester City: Ederson horror-show puts Liverpool on brink of title
Two costly mistakes from Ederson handed Manchester United a derby victory over Manchester City on Sunday to put Liverpool on the brink of a first Premier League title.
Anthony Martial fired the Red Devils ahead in the first half with a shot that City's goalkeeper should probably have kept out at his near post.
United survived some heavy second-half pressure until Scott McTominay scored an injury-time second after Ederson's throw went straight to his feet.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side, beaten at home by City in their past three league meetings and the EFL Cup semi-final first leg, claimed a top-flight double over their city rivals for the first time since 2009-10 to leave the champions' title defence hanging by a thread.
Pep Guardiola's first league loss at Old Trafford brought an end to City's five-game winning run in all competitions, as United boosted their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League.
City were 3-0 up after 38 minutes on their last visit to their neighbours in the EFL Cup, but this was a cagier affair, with the only early chance of note coming through Raheem Sterling's low shot, which was comfortably saved by David de Gea.
United grew in stature, with Ederson making two saves from good Daniel James and Martial chances, but the City keeper was at fault for the opener as he allowed Martial's volley through his grasp after a clever Bruno Fernandes free-kick.
City were upset that Ilkay Gundogan had been punished for the challenge that led to the goal, but the visitors were fortunate three minutes before the break when Fred was booked for diving after he was tripped by Nicolas Otamendi in the box.
City had only one shot in the first half, their lowest tally in a league game since October 2018 against Liverpool, but Sergio Aguero, who later went off with an apparent thigh problem, had the ball in the net three minutes after the restart only for VAR to uphold the initial offside call.
Ederson almost gifted Martial a second with poor control only to make a timely challenge on the goal line, but it was City who were threatening the most, with Phil Foden's shot tipped over by De Gea and Sterling failing to connect properly with a Riyad Mahrez cross.
United held firm in the closing stages before Ederson made the result safe, his attempted throw to Benjamin Mendy rolling straight to McTominay, who curled home a fine first-time finish from 30 yards.
Milan 1-2 Genoa: Tumultuous week ends in Rossoneri defeat
Milan suffered a damaging defeat for coach Stefano Pioli as Genoa claimed a shock 2-1 Serie A win at an empty San Siro on Sunday.
With the Rossoneri's famous home absent of spectators following a decree that all sporting events in Italy take place behind closed doors until April 3 as the country battles the coronavirus outbreak, Milan turned in a drab performance.
At the end of a week that saw Milan sack chief football officer Zvonimir Boban but express support for Pioli, they were second best throughout against a Genoa side battling relegation.
Goran Pandev's close-range finish gave Genoa the lead and Francesco Cassata doubled their advantage four minutes before half-time. Zlatan Ibrahimovic pulled one back for Milan but they remain 12 points off the top four, while Genoa move out of the bottom three, leapfrogging Lecce.
Milan fell behind in the seventh minute as Pandev was provided with the simplest of tap-ins to break the deadlock after Antonio Sanabria had dispossessed Theo Hernandez and sent a low right-wing delivery across the face of goal.
Mattia Perin displayed excellent reactions to keep out Ibrahimovic's header from point-blank range following a clever ball from Hakan Calhanoglu as Milan sought an equaliser.
However, Genoa continued to look the more threatening in the final third and a sublime team move made it 2-0.
Sanabria was involved again as he spread the play out to right winger Davide Biraschi, whose cross was instinctively flicked on by Lasse Schone for Cassata to slide the ball home at the far post.
Milan appeared to be running out of steam in a low-key second half, but Ibrahimovic reduced the deficit with a smart volley on the turn 13 minutes from the end of normal time.
Genoa had little difficulty seeing out the win, though, as Pioli's side remained well below their best.
Milan suffered a damaging defeat for coach Stefano Pioli as Genoa claimed a shock 2-1 Serie A win at an empty San Siro on Sunday.
With the Rossoneri's famous home absent of spectators following a decree that all sporting events in Italy take place behind closed doors until April 3 as the country battles the coronavirus outbreak, Milan turned in a drab performance.
At the end of a week that saw Milan sack chief football officer Zvonimir Boban but express support for Pioli, they were second best throughout against a Genoa side battling relegation.
Goran Pandev's close-range finish gave Genoa the lead and Francesco Cassata doubled their advantage four minutes before half-time. Zlatan Ibrahimovic pulled one back for Milan but they remain 12 points off the top four, while Genoa move out of the bottom three, leapfrogging Lecce.
Milan fell behind in the seventh minute as Pandev was provided with the simplest of tap-ins to break the deadlock after Antonio Sanabria had dispossessed Theo Hernandez and sent a low right-wing delivery across the face of goal.
Mattia Perin displayed excellent reactions to keep out Ibrahimovic's header from point-blank range following a clever ball from Hakan Calhanoglu as Milan sought an equaliser.
However, Genoa continued to look the more threatening in the final third and a sublime team move made it 2-0.
Sanabria was involved again as he spread the play out to right winger Davide Biraschi, whose cross was instinctively flicked on by Lasse Schone for Cassata to slide the ball home at the far post.
Milan appeared to be running out of steam in a low-key second half, but Ibrahimovic reduced the deficit with a smart volley on the turn 13 minutes from the end of normal time.
Genoa had little difficulty seeing out the win, though, as Pioli's side remained well below their best.
Chelsea 4-0 Everton: Ancelotti swept aside on Stamford Bridge return
Carlo Ancelotti's return to Stamford Bridge ended with Everton suffering a chastening 4-0 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.
Everton were completely overwhelmed by a Chelsea midfield that saw Billy Gilmour make his first Premier League start alongside Ross Barkley and Mason Mount, who got the Blues up and running in the 14th minute.
Pedro assisted Mount and was himself on target in the Premier League for the first time since February 2019 seven minutes later – the experienced winger involved in as many goals in the opening 21 minutes as in his previous 21 appearances in the competition.
Willian drove home a powerful effort and set up Olivier Giroud in the space of three second-half minutes to put the result beyond doubt, with Frank Lampard's side claiming just their third top-flight win of the year.
Jordan Pickford did well to keep out Mount's first effort, but the midfielder scored the opener when a sublime first touch while turning on the edge of the box was followed by a sweeping drive into the bottom-left corner.
Willian outpaced Mason Holgate and had a cross-goal effort kept out well by Pickford, before Pedro doubled the hosts' lead by slotting home from Barkley's throughball to finish a wonderful passing move.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin failed to show the prowess in front of goal that earned him a new five-year contract his week, scuffing wide when up against Kepa Arrizabalaga in the goalkeeper's first Premier League game since January 21.
Chelsea picked up where they left off in the second half with Willian arrowing a powerful finish past Pickford in the 51st minute.
Giroud then evaded some dismal marking from Holgate to turn home a curling, first-time delivery from Willian, before Pickford stopped Pedro from making it five.
Lampard handed Premier League debuts to teenagers Faustino Anjorin and Armando Broja off the bench. A good challenge from Djibril Sidibe prevented Anjorin marking the occasion with a goal to round off an already resounding win.
Carlo Ancelotti's return to Stamford Bridge ended with Everton suffering a chastening 4-0 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.
Everton were completely overwhelmed by a Chelsea midfield that saw Billy Gilmour make his first Premier League start alongside Ross Barkley and Mason Mount, who got the Blues up and running in the 14th minute.
Pedro assisted Mount and was himself on target in the Premier League for the first time since February 2019 seven minutes later – the experienced winger involved in as many goals in the opening 21 minutes as in his previous 21 appearances in the competition.
Willian drove home a powerful effort and set up Olivier Giroud in the space of three second-half minutes to put the result beyond doubt, with Frank Lampard's side claiming just their third top-flight win of the year.
Jordan Pickford did well to keep out Mount's first effort, but the midfielder scored the opener when a sublime first touch while turning on the edge of the box was followed by a sweeping drive into the bottom-left corner.
Willian outpaced Mason Holgate and had a cross-goal effort kept out well by Pickford, before Pedro doubled the hosts' lead by slotting home from Barkley's throughball to finish a wonderful passing move.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin failed to show the prowess in front of goal that earned him a new five-year contract his week, scuffing wide when up against Kepa Arrizabalaga in the goalkeeper's first Premier League game since January 21.
Chelsea picked up where they left off in the second half with Willian arrowing a powerful finish past Pickford in the 51st minute.
Giroud then evaded some dismal marking from Holgate to turn home a curling, first-time delivery from Willian, before Pickford stopped Pedro from making it five.
Lampard handed Premier League debuts to teenagers Faustino Anjorin and Armando Broja off the bench. A good challenge from Djibril Sidibe prevented Anjorin marking the occasion with a goal to round off an already resounding win.
Bayern Munich 2-0 Augsburg: Muller's superb volley sets up victory
Thomas Muller scored an exquisite volley as Bayern Munich claimed a 2-0 win over Augsburg and moved four points clear at the top of the Bundesliga.
After a lacklustre first half at the Allianz Arena, midfielder Muller provided the game's decisive moment early in the second period with a beautifully controlled finish.
Augsburg had two late chances as Florian Niederlechner saw a close-range effort saved by Manuel Neuer before he put in the ball net shortly after only to see it chalked off for offside.
Bayern sealed the points in injury time when Leon Goretzka slipped the ball home after a neat interchange of passes with Serge Gnabry.
Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach on Saturday lifted them up to second, only a point behind Bayern, in the Bundesliga table.
And here Bayern lacked urgency, creativity and quality in a lethargic first half, with Augsburg goalkeeper Andreas Luthe not having a meaningful save to make before the break as Bayern failed to register a shot on target.
Muller went closest for the home side on the stroke of half-time when he was picked out near the penalty spot by Gnabry's low cross, but he volleyed his effort into the ground and the ball sailed over the crossbar.
The 30-year-old midfielder made amends shortly after the interval, though, when he cushioned a volleyed finish from Jerome Boateng's ball over the top past Luthe and into the right corner of the net.
Bayern almost paid for missed chances in the second half as Augsburg twice went close after a spell of pressure late in the game.
Alfred Finnbogason's low cross found Niederlechner, only for Germany international Neuer to save superbly inside the six-yard box.
Niederlechner then broke clear of the Bayern defence and bundled the ball low into the net, but the assistant referee had flagged a marginal offside call.
Bayern put an undeserved gloss on the scoreline in injury time when their best passing move of the match culminated in Goretzka's deft finish past Luthe.
Thomas Muller scored an exquisite volley as Bayern Munich claimed a 2-0 win over Augsburg and moved four points clear at the top of the Bundesliga.
After a lacklustre first half at the Allianz Arena, midfielder Muller provided the game's decisive moment early in the second period with a beautifully controlled finish.
Augsburg had two late chances as Florian Niederlechner saw a close-range effort saved by Manuel Neuer before he put in the ball net shortly after only to see it chalked off for offside.
Bayern sealed the points in injury time when Leon Goretzka slipped the ball home after a neat interchange of passes with Serge Gnabry.
Borussia Dortmund's 2-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach on Saturday lifted them up to second, only a point behind Bayern, in the Bundesliga table.
And here Bayern lacked urgency, creativity and quality in a lethargic first half, with Augsburg goalkeeper Andreas Luthe not having a meaningful save to make before the break as Bayern failed to register a shot on target.
Muller went closest for the home side on the stroke of half-time when he was picked out near the penalty spot by Gnabry's low cross, but he volleyed his effort into the ground and the ball sailed over the crossbar.
The 30-year-old midfielder made amends shortly after the interval, though, when he cushioned a volleyed finish from Jerome Boateng's ball over the top past Luthe and into the right corner of the net.
Bayern almost paid for missed chances in the second half as Augsburg twice went close after a spell of pressure late in the game.
Alfred Finnbogason's low cross found Niederlechner, only for Germany international Neuer to save superbly inside the six-yard box.
Niederlechner then broke clear of the Bayern defence and bundled the ball low into the net, but the assistant referee had flagged a marginal offside call.
Bayern put an undeserved gloss on the scoreline in injury time when their best passing move of the match culminated in Goretzka's deft finish past Luthe.
'He's got the X-factor' - Solskjaer hails Fernandes following win over Manchester CityOle Gunnar Solskjaer lauded Bruno Fernandes' impact at Manchester United after a 2-0 derby win over Manchester City on Sunday.
Fernandes' impressive start to his career at Old Trafford continued with a brilliant quick free-kick to set up Anthony Martial's opener, while Scott McTominay sealed United's win late on.
Sunday's victory saw Manchester United do the league double over their crosstown rivals, having won 2-1 at the Etihad in December.
In addition, Manchester United also picked up a 1-0 win at the Etihad in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, although that followed a 3-1 defeat in the opening leg to the competition's eventual champions.
Portugal international Fernandes arrived at United in January and already has two goals and three assists in five Premier League games as he's gotten off to a spectacular start at Old Trafford.
Solskjaer praised the 25-year-old for his performances at United so far, as his side moved within three points of fourth-placed Chelsea.
"He works hard, he's humble enough, he's got the desire, commitment, but he's also got the X-factor," the United manager told a news conference.
"He's a risk-taker, he's got courage, he's brave enough to make mistakes and if you make enough mistakes they'll be corrected into fantastic assists or goals."
United are on a 10-game unbeaten run and completed a league double over City for the first time since 2009-10.
Solskjaer is happy with his team's growth but believes they are still a few signings away from being Premier League contenders.
"We feel we're improving all the time and we know that we lack one or two, three players and some experience to be considered a title contender, we know that and we're not going to start talking about that now," he said.
"We're just going to start talking about getting up the table, getting more points, challenging for that top four because Chelsea and Leicester are too far ahead of us for my liking still."
Manchester United are set to face LASK in the first leg of their Europa League round of 16 clash on Thursday before visiting former manager Jose Mourinho and Tottenham next weekend in the Premier League.
Zidane: I'm to blame for Real Madrid's worst game of the season
Zinedine Zidane took responsibility for Real Madrid's "worst game of the season" after a 2-1 loss to Real Betis in La Liga on Sunday.
Former Barcelona forward Cristian Tello struck in the 82nd minute as Madrid stayed two points behind their rivals, despite having triumphed in last week's Clasico .
Zidane accepted blame for the result, which came despite Karim Benzema's penalty cancelling out Sidnei's opener in the first half.
"We didn't get anything today, and I'm to blame for it. I have to look at what happened; we're going to fight the league to the end," Zidane said post-match.
"I am with my players till the death. I am responsible here. We will analyse what happened and move on.
"We played badly,. Many mistakes. We lacked everything, play, possession, aggression, our worst game of season. Didn't deserve to win. We can't be happy. We started badly, and could not correct it. I've no explanation at moment, we just lacked a bit of everything.
"I am to blame as motivation, This is my responsibility. We didn't generate anything today. We've lacked everything, especially ball possession, we never lose so many balls, that's been our main problem tonight."
With 11 games remaining in La Liga, Madrid – whose last league title came in 2017 – are now two points adrift of Barca, who needed a Lionel Messi penalty to squeeze past Real Sociedad 1--0 on Saturday at Camp Nou.
While backing his players, Zidane also said they would be made aware of their deficiencies.
"I will defend my players, if I have something to say I will tell them," he said."I don't point fingers. We're all in this together. None of us was good enough today. It wasn't just defensively, but we were poor offensively and didn't create any runs to disturb their back line. What irritated me most was how we lost the ball so many times."
Real Madrid next host Eibar in La Liga on Friday night before backing up against Manchester City on March 17 in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Los Blancos losing 2-1 in the first leg.
Zinedine Zidane took responsibility for Real Madrid's "worst game of the season" after a 2-1 loss to Real Betis in La Liga on Sunday.
Former Barcelona forward Cristian Tello struck in the 82nd minute as Madrid stayed two points behind their rivals, despite having triumphed in last week's Clasico .
Zidane accepted blame for the result, which came despite Karim Benzema's penalty cancelling out Sidnei's opener in the first half.
"We didn't get anything today, and I'm to blame for it. I have to look at what happened; we're going to fight the league to the end," Zidane said post-match.
"I am with my players till the death. I am responsible here. We will analyse what happened and move on.
"We played badly,. Many mistakes. We lacked everything, play, possession, aggression, our worst game of season. Didn't deserve to win. We can't be happy. We started badly, and could not correct it. I've no explanation at moment, we just lacked a bit of everything.
"I am to blame as motivation, This is my responsibility. We didn't generate anything today. We've lacked everything, especially ball possession, we never lose so many balls, that's been our main problem tonight."
With 11 games remaining in La Liga, Madrid – whose last league title came in 2017 – are now two points adrift of Barca, who needed a Lionel Messi penalty to squeeze past Real Sociedad 1--0 on Saturday at Camp Nou.
While backing his players, Zidane also said they would be made aware of their deficiencies.
"I will defend my players, if I have something to say I will tell them," he said."I don't point fingers. We're all in this together. None of us was good enough today. It wasn't just defensively, but we were poor offensively and didn't create any runs to disturb their back line. What irritated me most was how we lost the ball so many times."
Real Madrid next host Eibar in La Liga on Friday night before backing up against Manchester City on March 17 in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Los Blancos losing 2-1 in the first leg.
Sarri impressed with Ramsey after Juventus edge Inter
Maurizio Sarri praised Aaron Ramsey's performance in Juventus' 2-0 win over Inter, saying the Wales international's improved fitness has helped him to thrive in the Bianconeri midfield.
Ramsey scored for the second Serie A game running, netting Juve's opener in Sunday's Derby D'Italia after also finding the net against SPAL.
He then teed up Paulo Dybala to score the hosts' second and Sarri said moving Ramsey into a three-man midfield rather than playing him behind the strikers had paid dividends.
"He [Ramsey] maintains that he needs to see more of the pitch in front of him, or he gets a little lost," said the Juve coach."He is doing well in this role, although in fairness he's also in much better physical condition now than he was when playing as a trequartista.“I was about to introduce Dybala a minute before we scored with Ramsey, but I decided to put him on anyway, as I felt that was the moment we could finish the game.
"Inter tried to press us high in the first half and probably used up a lot of energy doing that. The inertia of the game changed after our goal, we had a very strong 20 minutes after that and gained confidence, whereas Inter lost it at the same moment.
"It's very positive that we barely allowed a quality side like Inter a single shot on goal."
After dominating the division in the first half of the season, Inter are in third place, nine points behind leaders Juve, having lost twice to the reigning champions.
Inter boss Antonio Conte called upon his players to grow from the defeat, saying: "We tried to stay in their slipstream, but must learn from defeat and take the lessons of comparison to grow in terms of character, quality and strength.
"It's a loss that must help us to grow and understand how far away we are. It certainly shouldn't make us distraught, as we knew there was a gap and we lost both meetings with them. The results speak clearly, they won two and we got zero points.
"We must grow in terms of character if we want to compete at the highest level. It's also about characteristics, as there are players who are stronger in personality and others less so.
"We all need to do better in that sense and be more determined."
Maurizio Sarri praised Aaron Ramsey's performance in Juventus' 2-0 win over Inter, saying the Wales international's improved fitness has helped him to thrive in the Bianconeri midfield.
Ramsey scored for the second Serie A game running, netting Juve's opener in Sunday's Derby D'Italia after also finding the net against SPAL.
He then teed up Paulo Dybala to score the hosts' second and Sarri said moving Ramsey into a three-man midfield rather than playing him behind the strikers had paid dividends.
"He [Ramsey] maintains that he needs to see more of the pitch in front of him, or he gets a little lost," said the Juve coach."He is doing well in this role, although in fairness he's also in much better physical condition now than he was when playing as a trequartista.“I was about to introduce Dybala a minute before we scored with Ramsey, but I decided to put him on anyway, as I felt that was the moment we could finish the game.
"Inter tried to press us high in the first half and probably used up a lot of energy doing that. The inertia of the game changed after our goal, we had a very strong 20 minutes after that and gained confidence, whereas Inter lost it at the same moment.
"It's very positive that we barely allowed a quality side like Inter a single shot on goal."
After dominating the division in the first half of the season, Inter are in third place, nine points behind leaders Juve, having lost twice to the reigning champions.
Inter boss Antonio Conte called upon his players to grow from the defeat, saying: "We tried to stay in their slipstream, but must learn from defeat and take the lessons of comparison to grow in terms of character, quality and strength.
"It's a loss that must help us to grow and understand how far away we are. It certainly shouldn't make us distraught, as we knew there was a gap and we lost both meetings with them. The results speak clearly, they won two and we got zero points.
"We must grow in terms of character if we want to compete at the highest level. It's also about characteristics, as there are players who are stronger in personality and others less so.
"We all need to do better in that sense and be more determined."
Liverpool 2-3 Atletico Madrid (2-4 agg): Holders eliminated by Llorente's extra-time strikes
Substitute Marcos Llorente scored two extra-time goals as Atletico Madrid earned a 3-2 second-leg win to knock out holders Liverpool and advance to the Champions League quarter-finals 4-2 on aggregate.
Jurgen Klopp's defending European champions trailed 1-0 from last month's first leg in Madrid but levelled up the tie through Georginio Wijnaldum's header two minutes before half-time in Wednesday's dramatic match.
Inspired Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a string of saves either side of Wijnaldum's breakthrough goal and Andy Robertson headed against the crossbar as the contest went the distance at Anfield.
Roberto Firmino put Liverpool ahead in the tie for the first time with a goal early in extra time, but Llorente - brought on in the second half - capitalised on an Adrian error to swing the game back in Atleti's favour and added a second eight minutes later.
Alvaro Morata applied gloss to the scoreline in the waning seconds of extra time, sending coach Diego Simeone sprinting down the touchline in delirious scenes from the visiting side and their travelling supporters.
Diego Costa wasted a glorious chance to extend Atletico's aggregate lead when firing wide with only Adrian - in for the injured Alisson - to beat after just 13 seconds.
Liverpool, who failed to register a single shot on target in the first leg, recovered from that early scare and tested Oblak for the first time through Wijnaldum's fifth-minute header.
Oblak was also needed to keep out Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino as Liverpool desperately chased a goal to level up the tie.
And the all-important breakthrough arrived shortly before the interval as Wijnaldum guided Oxlade-Chamberlain's cross into the ground and away from Oblak.
Liverpool did not take their foot off the gas but were denied by a series of saves from Oblak, including impressive stops to again frustrate Oxlade-Chamberlain and Firmino.
Adrian reacted well to thwart Angel Correa but Liverpool soon turned up the heat as Robertson headed against the woodwork after Mohamed Salah's shoot looped into the air.
Atletico thought they had won the game in the 93rd minute, only for Saul to rightly be flagged for offside, and they found themselves behind early in extra time - Firmino heading against the post with his first effort before converting the rebound.
But Adrian's hacked clearance soon after proved costly as Llorente sent the ball out of the stand-in keeper's reach, and the midfielder jinked inside Jordan Henderson to curl home from 20 yards for his second.
And with Liverpool pushing for the two goals they needed to progress, Morata took advantage of some space at the back and yet more questionable goalkeeping from Adrian to add a late third.
Substitute Marcos Llorente scored two extra-time goals as Atletico Madrid earned a 3-2 second-leg win to knock out holders Liverpool and advance to the Champions League quarter-finals 4-2 on aggregate.
Jurgen Klopp's defending European champions trailed 1-0 from last month's first leg in Madrid but levelled up the tie through Georginio Wijnaldum's header two minutes before half-time in Wednesday's dramatic match.
Inspired Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a string of saves either side of Wijnaldum's breakthrough goal and Andy Robertson headed against the crossbar as the contest went the distance at Anfield.
Roberto Firmino put Liverpool ahead in the tie for the first time with a goal early in extra time, but Llorente - brought on in the second half - capitalised on an Adrian error to swing the game back in Atleti's favour and added a second eight minutes later.
Alvaro Morata applied gloss to the scoreline in the waning seconds of extra time, sending coach Diego Simeone sprinting down the touchline in delirious scenes from the visiting side and their travelling supporters.
Diego Costa wasted a glorious chance to extend Atletico's aggregate lead when firing wide with only Adrian - in for the injured Alisson - to beat after just 13 seconds.
Liverpool, who failed to register a single shot on target in the first leg, recovered from that early scare and tested Oblak for the first time through Wijnaldum's fifth-minute header.
Oblak was also needed to keep out Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino as Liverpool desperately chased a goal to level up the tie.
And the all-important breakthrough arrived shortly before the interval as Wijnaldum guided Oxlade-Chamberlain's cross into the ground and away from Oblak.
Liverpool did not take their foot off the gas but were denied by a series of saves from Oblak, including impressive stops to again frustrate Oxlade-Chamberlain and Firmino.
Adrian reacted well to thwart Angel Correa but Liverpool soon turned up the heat as Robertson headed against the woodwork after Mohamed Salah's shoot looped into the air.
Atletico thought they had won the game in the 93rd minute, only for Saul to rightly be flagged for offside, and they found themselves behind early in extra time - Firmino heading against the post with his first effort before converting the rebound.
But Adrian's hacked clearance soon after proved costly as Llorente sent the ball out of the stand-in keeper's reach, and the midfielder jinked inside Jordan Henderson to curl home from 20 yards for his second.
And with Liverpool pushing for the two goals they needed to progress, Morata took advantage of some space at the back and yet more questionable goalkeeping from Adrian to add a late third.
Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 Borussia Dortmund (3-2 agg): Neymar helps book QF spot at empty Parc des Princes
Paris Saint-Germain did not let a lack of support derail their performance as they defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 to seal a 3-2 aggregate win en route to the Champions League quarter-finals.
With Wednesday's clash at Parc des Princes played behind closed doors amid fears over the spread of coronavirus, PSG overturned a 2-1 opening-leg deficit to progress to the last eight for the first time since 2016.
Neymar got Thomas Tuchel's side started in the 28th minute, capping an impressive display with a diving header from point-blank range, before Juan Bernat doubled PSG's tally.
And with Dortmund toiling to claw their way back into proceedings, their frustrations were compounded in the closing stages – Emre Can seeing red for becoming embroiled in an off-field scuffle as Lucien Favre's side dropped out with a whimper.
With thousands of fans making their voices heard outside Parc des Princes, it was Dortmund who went close to a breakthrough against the run of play – Erling Haaland inches away from connecting with Achraf Hakimi's cross.
It was PSG's turn to rue a glorious chance in the 25th minute – Edinson Cavani racing through on goal only for Roman Burki to make a superb save with his right foot.
But Burki was beaten three minutes later, Neymar left unmarked in the six-yard box to head in from Angel Di Maria's corner.
Jadon Sancho tested Keylor Navas as Dortmund looked to respond, yet PSG turned the tie further in their favour on the stroke of half-time when Bernat diverted home.
Di Maria's long-range free-kick had Burki lunging to his right nine minutes after the restart, before Tuchel introduced Kylian Mbappe, who had been a doubt due to a throat infection.
Dortmund substitute Julian Brandt had more of an impact, though his deflected strike onto the roof of the net was the closest the visitors came to keeping themselves in the competition before Can's red card for violent conduct all but ended their slim hopes.
Paris Saint-Germain did not let a lack of support derail their performance as they defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 to seal a 3-2 aggregate win en route to the Champions League quarter-finals.
With Wednesday's clash at Parc des Princes played behind closed doors amid fears over the spread of coronavirus, PSG overturned a 2-1 opening-leg deficit to progress to the last eight for the first time since 2016.
Neymar got Thomas Tuchel's side started in the 28th minute, capping an impressive display with a diving header from point-blank range, before Juan Bernat doubled PSG's tally.
And with Dortmund toiling to claw their way back into proceedings, their frustrations were compounded in the closing stages – Emre Can seeing red for becoming embroiled in an off-field scuffle as Lucien Favre's side dropped out with a whimper.
With thousands of fans making their voices heard outside Parc des Princes, it was Dortmund who went close to a breakthrough against the run of play – Erling Haaland inches away from connecting with Achraf Hakimi's cross.
It was PSG's turn to rue a glorious chance in the 25th minute – Edinson Cavani racing through on goal only for Roman Burki to make a superb save with his right foot.
But Burki was beaten three minutes later, Neymar left unmarked in the six-yard box to head in from Angel Di Maria's corner.
Jadon Sancho tested Keylor Navas as Dortmund looked to respond, yet PSG turned the tie further in their favour on the stroke of half-time when Bernat diverted home.
Di Maria's long-range free-kick had Burki lunging to his right nine minutes after the restart, before Tuchel introduced Kylian Mbappe, who had been a doubt due to a throat infection.
Dortmund substitute Julian Brandt had more of an impact, though his deflected strike onto the roof of the net was the closest the visitors came to keeping themselves in the competition before Can's red card for violent conduct all but ended their slim hopes.
Juventus defender Rugani tests positive for coronavirus
Juventus have confirmed that defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday night. The 25-year-old centre-back has been a fringe player for the reigning Serie A champions this season, making just seven appearances in all competitions.
The Italy international was on the bench for Juve just days ago when the club beat Inter 2-0 behind closed doors.
Confirmation of Rugani's condition comes after Serie A was put on hold until at least April with his club now committed to following proper quarantine protocol. "The footballer Daniele Rugani has tested positive for Coronavirus-COVID-19 and is currently asymptomatic," Juventus said in a club statement.
"Juventus Football Club is currently activating all the isolation procedures required by law, including the census of those who have had contact with him."Rugani began his career with Empoli in Serie B before joining Juventus in 2015 where he is currently contracted until June 2023.
He used Twitter to post a heartfelt message to his followers suggesting that he was okay and for people to submit to the restrictions put in place because of the virus.
"You will have read the news and that's why I want to reassure all those who are worrying about me, I'm fine," Rugani tweeted."I urge everyone to respect the rules, because this virus makes no distinctions! Let's do it for ourselves, for our loved ones and for those around us. #grazie."The defender's positive test comes in the wake of news that Juve superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has remained in his hometown of Madeira to limit the risk of getting coronavirus with Italy currently in lockdown.
With all Serie A game suspended indefinitely, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) recently confirmed possible ways they could accommodate a shortened season.
“If the COVID-19 emergency should not allow for the conclusion of the league competitions, president (Gabriel) Gravina put forward some proposals that will be discussed in another meeting on March 23,” read an FIGC statement.
“Without any order of priority, an option would be not assigning the Scudetto and consequently informing UEFA of the teams qualified for Europe.
“Another would be referring to the table as it stands up until the moment the season was interrupted.
“A third and final hypothesis would be to organise play-offs for the title of champion of Italy and play-offs to decide relegation into Serie B.”
The Premier League is also beginning to be impacted by coronavirus with Wednesday's clash between Manchester City and Arsenal postponed.
Juventus have confirmed that defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday night. The 25-year-old centre-back has been a fringe player for the reigning Serie A champions this season, making just seven appearances in all competitions.
The Italy international was on the bench for Juve just days ago when the club beat Inter 2-0 behind closed doors.
Confirmation of Rugani's condition comes after Serie A was put on hold until at least April with his club now committed to following proper quarantine protocol. "The footballer Daniele Rugani has tested positive for Coronavirus-COVID-19 and is currently asymptomatic," Juventus said in a club statement.
"Juventus Football Club is currently activating all the isolation procedures required by law, including the census of those who have had contact with him."Rugani began his career with Empoli in Serie B before joining Juventus in 2015 where he is currently contracted until June 2023.
He used Twitter to post a heartfelt message to his followers suggesting that he was okay and for people to submit to the restrictions put in place because of the virus.
"You will have read the news and that's why I want to reassure all those who are worrying about me, I'm fine," Rugani tweeted."I urge everyone to respect the rules, because this virus makes no distinctions! Let's do it for ourselves, for our loved ones and for those around us. #grazie."The defender's positive test comes in the wake of news that Juve superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has remained in his hometown of Madeira to limit the risk of getting coronavirus with Italy currently in lockdown.
With all Serie A game suspended indefinitely, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) recently confirmed possible ways they could accommodate a shortened season.
“If the COVID-19 emergency should not allow for the conclusion of the league competitions, president (Gabriel) Gravina put forward some proposals that will be discussed in another meeting on March 23,” read an FIGC statement.
“Without any order of priority, an option would be not assigning the Scudetto and consequently informing UEFA of the teams qualified for Europe.
“Another would be referring to the table as it stands up until the moment the season was interrupted.
“A third and final hypothesis would be to organise play-offs for the title of champion of Italy and play-offs to decide relegation into Serie B.”
The Premier League is also beginning to be impacted by coronavirus with Wednesday's clash between Manchester City and Arsenal postponed.
La Liga suspended for next two matchdays due to coronavirus pandemic
La Liga has officially announced the suspension of the next two matchdays following the news that Real Madrid have been forced into coronavirus quarantine.
Several of Spain's football fixtures had already been disrupted by concerns over the spread of the virus, with matches either being rescheduled or forced to take place behind closed doors.
Now, however, with Madrid having gone into isolation after learning that a member of their basketball team – who use the same training facilities as the football team - had tested positive for Covid-19, things have become even more complicated.
A statement from La Liga reads: "La Liga has decided given the circumstances that have come to light this morning, such as the quarantine put in place at Real Madrid and possible positive cases at other clubs, to continue with the next phase of the protocol of action against Covid-19.
"In accordance with measures established in the Royal Decree 664/1997 of May 12, it has been agreed that the competition will be postponed for the next two matchdays.
"Said decision will be re-evaluated after the completion of the quarantines undertaken in the affected clubs and in other possible situations that may arise.
"As organiser of the competition, La Liga has communicated the decision to the RFEF, the CSD and the clubs."
La Liga is far from the first league to be affected by the ongoing crisis, with Italy's prime minister Giuseppe Conte having suspended all Serie A games until further notice as the country struggles to contain the outbreak.
Since then, Juventus defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive and has gone into self-isolation, while Inter have cancelled all competitive activities after Rugani was present in the clash between the two Serie A sides.
In England, Arsenal's clash with Manchester City on Wednesday was postponed due to members of the Gunners squad and backroom staff coming into contact with Olympiacos and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who tested positive for the virus.
Elsewhere, in Germany, the DFB released a statement of their own, with General Secretary Friedrich Curtius stating: “We have to deal with all the possible scenarios in order to be prepared in case of an interruption or even an early end of the season.
“The goal remains, of course, to finish the season in a regular sporting manner. But the health authorities have the decisive word. We'll follow these guidelines without any ifs and buts, and we consistently align the organisation of match operations, which is the core task of the DFB and its associations, with them.”
La Liga has officially announced the suspension of the next two matchdays following the news that Real Madrid have been forced into coronavirus quarantine.
Several of Spain's football fixtures had already been disrupted by concerns over the spread of the virus, with matches either being rescheduled or forced to take place behind closed doors.
Now, however, with Madrid having gone into isolation after learning that a member of their basketball team – who use the same training facilities as the football team - had tested positive for Covid-19, things have become even more complicated.
A statement from La Liga reads: "La Liga has decided given the circumstances that have come to light this morning, such as the quarantine put in place at Real Madrid and possible positive cases at other clubs, to continue with the next phase of the protocol of action against Covid-19.
"In accordance with measures established in the Royal Decree 664/1997 of May 12, it has been agreed that the competition will be postponed for the next two matchdays.
"Said decision will be re-evaluated after the completion of the quarantines undertaken in the affected clubs and in other possible situations that may arise.
"As organiser of the competition, La Liga has communicated the decision to the RFEF, the CSD and the clubs."
La Liga is far from the first league to be affected by the ongoing crisis, with Italy's prime minister Giuseppe Conte having suspended all Serie A games until further notice as the country struggles to contain the outbreak.
Since then, Juventus defender Daniele Rugani has tested positive and has gone into self-isolation, while Inter have cancelled all competitive activities after Rugani was present in the clash between the two Serie A sides.
In England, Arsenal's clash with Manchester City on Wednesday was postponed due to members of the Gunners squad and backroom staff coming into contact with Olympiacos and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who tested positive for the virus.
Elsewhere, in Germany, the DFB released a statement of their own, with General Secretary Friedrich Curtius stating: “We have to deal with all the possible scenarios in order to be prepared in case of an interruption or even an early end of the season.
“The goal remains, of course, to finish the season in a regular sporting manner. But the health authorities have the decisive word. We'll follow these guidelines without any ifs and buts, and we consistently align the organisation of match operations, which is the core task of the DFB and its associations, with them.”
feels so good to see those scousers loose
their quotes after loosing the first leg aged like milk
Manchester United look destined for the Europa League quarter-finals after cruising to a resounding 5-0 victory over LASK in the first leg of their last-16 tie in Linz on Thursday.
In a match that was played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak, Odion Ighalo used his third start for United to take his tally for the club to four with a stunning effort in the 28th minute.
Ighalo then set up James to score his first goal since August, ending a run of 32 games and 2,527 minutes without hitting the back of the net in all competitions, before Juan Mata slid home a lovely pass from Fred.
Substitute duo Mason Greenwood and Andreas Pereira struck within the space of 85 seconds in stoppage time to cap an impressive victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side, who are now 11 unbeaten in all competitions.
United went close in the 18th minute when Alexander Schlager palmed Luke Shaw's cross to Mata, and his effort from 12 yards was deflected narrowly wide by Reinhold Ranftl.
Solskjaer's men found the breakthrough when Ighalo juggled Bruno Fernandes' outside-of-the-boot pass and unleashed a sublime effort that went in off the underside of the crossbar.
The Red Devils extended their lead 13 minutes after the restart. James was played in by Ighalo and he cut inside Gernot Trauner before picking out the bottom-left corner from the edge of the box.
The upright denied Ighalo a second but United had a third when Fred's excellent throughball cut the LASK defence open and Mata added the finishing touch.
Greenwood replaced Ighalo in the 85th minute and needed only six minutes before he fired a pass from fellow substitute Tahith Chong in off both posts.
A speculative 25-yard effort from Pereira then caught Schlager by surprise, evading the LASK keeper's grasp to find the back of the net as United clinched a resounding triumph.
Coronavirus: Premier League postponed until April 3 at the earliest amid Covid-19 outbreak
The Premier League has announced that all upcoming fixtures will be postponed until April 3 at the earliest.
Leading divisions across Europe and around the world have already taken that course of action in a bid to contain the spread of Covid-19 - Serie A, La Liga, MLS and Ligue 1 will all be taking in enforced breaks as a global pandemic continues to wreak havoc.
And, after an emergency meeting on Friday, the decision has been made that all forms of professional football in England be postponed until at least the beginning of next month.
It was revealed on Thursday that Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi had contracted coronavirus, while Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has been forced into a period of self-isolation, along with a number of Leicester City players.
As well as the Premier League, matches across the Football League in England will also be brought to a halt, along with fixtures in the Women's game and the two friendly internationals that England were due to play against Italy and Denmark.
A statement from the FA read: "The FA, Premier League, EFL and FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship have collectively agreed to postpone the professional game in England until Friday 3 April at the earliest.
"This action, which will be kept under constant review, has been taken due to the increasing numbers of clubs taking steps to isolate their players and staff because of the Covid-19 virus.
"It will also apply to all England team fixtures at every level and all FA competitions including the Emirates FA Cup and the Women’s FA Cup, along with academy and youth-team matches.
"The decision is being made purely on the number of cases requiring self-isolation and the impact on facilities. Given the steps being taken across clubs, there is no alternative but for today’s action. However, all parties are committed at this time to trying to complete this season’s domestic fixture programme and are liaising to establish appropriate options to do so.
"We are liaising with the National League pyramids (men’s and women’s) and will continue to offer guidance and support. Any decision to continue playing or to postpone their respective competitions is a matter for each league as autonomous bodies within the game.
"With respect to the senior men’s fixtures against Italy and Denmark at Wembley Stadium, refunds will be processed to all ticket buyers within 14 working days.
"Monies will be returned to the card used to make the original booking. The refund process for England’s MU21 and MU20 home fixtures is still to be confirmed.
"UEFA had already confirmed that all Elite Round qualifiers across U17 and U19 age groups had been postponed. Europe’s governing body will meet on Tuesday to discuss further implications for international football including national-team and club competitions.
"We will continue to monitor all Government advice with the situation under constant review, with the priority being the health and well-being of all. Further updates will follow in due course."
A Premier League statement added on the decision: "Following a meeting of Shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on 4 April, subject to medical advice and conditions at the time.
"Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: 'Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.
"'In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority.'
"Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League’s aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so."In this fast-moving environment, further updates will be provided when appropriate."
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) have also confirmed that football in Scotland has been postponed. A statement read: "The joint response group can confirm the decision of the Scottish FA board to suspend all domestic professional and grassroots football under the jurisdiction of the Scottish FA until further notice.
"As a result, the SPFL has announced the postponement of this weekend’s and following midweek’s fixtures, starting with tonight’s Premiership match between Motherwell and Aberdeen and the Championship match between Queen of the South and Ayr United.
"The Scottish FA and SPFL will continue to liaise with governments and UEFA in relation to domestic, European and International fixtures in the coming days and more information will be communicated at the appropriate time."
The Premier League has announced that all upcoming fixtures will be postponed until April 3 at the earliest.
Leading divisions across Europe and around the world have already taken that course of action in a bid to contain the spread of Covid-19 - Serie A, La Liga, MLS and Ligue 1 will all be taking in enforced breaks as a global pandemic continues to wreak havoc.
And, after an emergency meeting on Friday, the decision has been made that all forms of professional football in England be postponed until at least the beginning of next month.
It was revealed on Thursday that Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta and Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi had contracted coronavirus, while Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has been forced into a period of self-isolation, along with a number of Leicester City players.
As well as the Premier League, matches across the Football League in England will also be brought to a halt, along with fixtures in the Women's game and the two friendly internationals that England were due to play against Italy and Denmark.
A statement from the FA read: "The FA, Premier League, EFL and FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship have collectively agreed to postpone the professional game in England until Friday 3 April at the earliest.
"This action, which will be kept under constant review, has been taken due to the increasing numbers of clubs taking steps to isolate their players and staff because of the Covid-19 virus.
"It will also apply to all England team fixtures at every level and all FA competitions including the Emirates FA Cup and the Women’s FA Cup, along with academy and youth-team matches.
"The decision is being made purely on the number of cases requiring self-isolation and the impact on facilities. Given the steps being taken across clubs, there is no alternative but for today’s action. However, all parties are committed at this time to trying to complete this season’s domestic fixture programme and are liaising to establish appropriate options to do so.
"We are liaising with the National League pyramids (men’s and women’s) and will continue to offer guidance and support. Any decision to continue playing or to postpone their respective competitions is a matter for each league as autonomous bodies within the game.
"With respect to the senior men’s fixtures against Italy and Denmark at Wembley Stadium, refunds will be processed to all ticket buyers within 14 working days.
"Monies will be returned to the card used to make the original booking. The refund process for England’s MU21 and MU20 home fixtures is still to be confirmed.
"UEFA had already confirmed that all Elite Round qualifiers across U17 and U19 age groups had been postponed. Europe’s governing body will meet on Tuesday to discuss further implications for international football including national-team and club competitions.
"We will continue to monitor all Government advice with the situation under constant review, with the priority being the health and well-being of all. Further updates will follow in due course."
A Premier League statement added on the decision: "Following a meeting of Shareholders today, it was unanimously decided to suspend the Premier League with the intention of returning on 4 April, subject to medical advice and conditions at the time.
"Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: 'Above all, we wish Mikel Arteta and Callum Hudson-Odoi speedy recoveries, and everyone else affected by COVID-19.
"'In this unprecedented situation, we are working closely with our clubs, Government, The FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority.'
"Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League’s aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures, including those played by Academy sides, when it is safe to do so."In this fast-moving environment, further updates will be provided when appropriate."
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) have also confirmed that football in Scotland has been postponed. A statement read: "The joint response group can confirm the decision of the Scottish FA board to suspend all domestic professional and grassroots football under the jurisdiction of the Scottish FA until further notice.
"As a result, the SPFL has announced the postponement of this weekend’s and following midweek’s fixtures, starting with tonight’s Premiership match between Motherwell and Aberdeen and the Championship match between Queen of the South and Ayr United.
"The Scottish FA and SPFL will continue to liaise with governments and UEFA in relation to domestic, European and International fixtures in the coming days and more information will be communicated at the appropriate time."
