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We gave Porto the opener on silver platter, fumes Juventus boss Pirlo after Champions League defeat

The Portuguese outfit scored early in both halves to take a one-goal advantage into the second leg

Juventus head coach Andrea Pirlo was upset that his side gave Porto their opening goal "on a silver platter" in Wednesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat. 

The home side scored early in both halves – Mehdi Taremi in the second minute and Moussa Marega in the 46th – before a late goal from Federico Chiesa gave the Serie A side hope. 

But Pirlo was still upset with his side's performance in the last-16 first leg, especially the simple mistake in possession that gifted Taremi the opener. 

What Pirlo said 

“We had prepared well for this game, it was not the attitude we wanted, but conceding a goal in the opening minute when we handed it to them on a silver platter made everything more difficult," Pirlo told Sky Sport Italia.

“When you concede a goal after one minute, a strange one at that, it’s natural the players will lose confidence, especially against a side that knows how to clam up in defence.

"Our approach was wrong after we conceded the goal ... We had planned on attacking the deeper spaces, but if you take too many touches, things get complicated. We weren't smart, the ball was moved around too slowly.

“Porto got the game immediately on the track they wanted. With such a packed fixture list, it’s normal you can’t always maintain absolute focus and the right tempo, but it shouldn’t have happened in the round of 16 of the Champions League.”

Two quick goals prove costly

Taremi's goal – which came after Rodrigo Bentancur's pass sold goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny short – came after just one minute and three seconds. It was the third-fastest goal Juve have ever conceded in the Champions League. 

Marega's strike, coming just 19 seconds into the second half, is the fastest goal Juve have conceded in the second half of a Champions League game. 

What's next for Juventus?

Juventus will look to get past Wednesday's disappointment with a run of four Serie A matches, against Crotone, Verona, Spezia and Lazio.

Pirlo's side will then have their chance to overcome their one-goal deficit when they face Porto in the second leg on March 9 in Turin.

Further reading

Original author: Goal

'We don't even need to speak to each other' – Mahrez talks up telepathic link with Man City star Bernardo

The pair combined for the Algeria international's goal as Pep Guardiola's team stretched their lead at the top of the table

Riyad Mahrez says he has developed a telepathic connection with Manchester City team-mate Bernardo Silva on the field after they beat Everton 3-1 on Wednesday.

Both players found the net in the Premier League clash at Goodison Park, with Silva holding up the ball on the edge of the box and teeing up Mahrez to make it 2-1 before rounding off the scoring himself.

Mahrez now has six goals from 18 appearances in the league this season and he credited his partnership with the Portugal international for his latest strike.

What was said?

He told Amazon: "We tried to pass and move to find space to score the goal. We [himself and Bernardo Silva] have always had a good connection, we don't even need to speak to each other - we know where we are. We all know each other."

The Algeria international was happy with his team's display and says confidence is high among Pep Guardiola's squad after collecting their 17th consecutive win in all competitions.

"It was a good performance, we played good again. It is a shame to concede the goal in the first half but we haven't conceded many," he added.

"We train so well, so we know the movement. When you keep winning and scoring goals the confidence grows. It is difficult for the opponent. We are in a very good moment."

City extend lead at the top

Guardiola's team are now 10 points ahead of second-placed Manchester United in the Premier League after 24 matches.

They have become heavy favourites to lift the title this year, but Mahrez says they are not getting carried away just yet.

"I don't know about the title, we only think about the next game - Arsenal," he said.

After the trip to north London to face Arsenal on Sunday, City will turn their attention to the Champions League as they take on Borussia Monchengladbach in the first leg of their last-16 tie on February 24.

Further reading

Iwobi in action as Mahrez continues impressive form at Goodison Park in Manchester City win over Everton

The Nigeria and Algeria internationals played prominent roles as Pep Guardiola’s men secured victory over the Toffees

Alex Iwobi was in action while Riyad Mahrez continued his impressive form at Goodison Park as Manchester City defeated Everton 3-1 in Wednesday’s Premier League game.

Iwobi made his 12th league appearance this season for the Toffees but could not help his side return to winning ways after their three-game unbeaten run was halted by Fulham last time out.

Mahrez starred for Pep Guardiola’s men in the encounter, scoring his sixth Premier League goal of the season.

The Algeria international made his 18th league appearance for the Citizens and delivered eye-catching performances.

Both sides aimed to get an early goal in the encounter with the best chance in the opening 30 minutes falling to Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazil centre-forward found himself in a one-on-one situation but failed to hit the back of the net before Phil Foden opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a deflected shot.

Shortly before the half-time break, Richarlison levelled proceedings for the Goodison Park outfit, after pouncing on a loose ball.

After the restart, Mahrez gave City the lead for the first time in the encounter after he was set up by Bernardo Silva.

The Algeria international has now scored four Premier League goals at Goodison Park, making the ground a place he has scored the highest away goals.

Silva then scored a goal of his own to seal the victory for Manchester City in the 77th minute after receiving a fine assist from Jesus.

Mahrez featured for the duration of the game while Iwobi played for 69 minutes before making way for James Rodriguez.

With the result, Manchester City extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table after gathering 56 points from 24 games.

Everton, meanwhile, dropped to the seventh spot on the table after their inability to add to their exiting 37 points.

Iwobi has now made 25 appearances across all competitions, scoring two goals and providing three assists across all competitions.

The forward will hope to make a more meaningful impact when Everton take on Liverpool in their next Premier League game on February 20.

 

 

 

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

Manchester City set new Premier League record with Everton win

Pep Guardiola's side have won every top-flight match they've played in 2021, setting a new mark in the process

Manchester City set a new Premier League record on Wednesday, as their 3-1 victory at Everton saw them reach 10 straight wins to begin 2021. 

No Premier League team had ever reached that mark to begin a calendar year, with City reaching yet another milestone as they threaten to run away with the league title. 

Phil Foden, Riyad Mahrez and Bernardo Silva scored at Goodison Park, cancelling out Richarlison's strike to secure another three points.

City's amazing run continues

Pep Guardiola's side have now won a remarkable 17 straight games in all competitions, last failing to win in a 1-1 draw against West Brom on December 15, and last losing on November 21 against Tottenham.

Since that loss to Spurs, City haven’t trailed for a single minute in any of their last 16 Premier League games. Guardiola's side are approaching Arsenal's record of 19 straight games, which was set in 1999.

City have now opened up a 10-point lead atop the Premier League. Only Newcastle United in 1995-96 and Manchester United in 1997-98 have failed to win the title after building a double-digit lead in the league. 

What did Guardiola say?

Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, the Man City boss admitted it's difficult for City to maintain the run they're on with a growing target on their back. 

"When you win a lot of games everyone wants to beat you and it is tricky," Guardiola said. "I have not seen that the team is thinking of the table, we have spoken about that. We are not here to defend our lead, it is all about three points, three points.

"There are 42 points still to fight for, we are in the middle of February. Now we rest for a few days, there are so many games."

What's next for City?

Guardiola's side will face Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday before they take on Borussia Monchengladbach in the Champions League last-16 first leg on Wednesday.

Original author: Goal

‘I’m not a robot, it’s not like the PlayStation’ – Tottenham’s Aurier on his consistency

The Ivory Coast captain is often the poster boy for defeats when Jose Mourinho’s side drop points in the Premier League

Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier admits he is not at his best sometimes and he said football is not like playing video game, PlayStation.

After heavy criticism in 2019-20 for his lacklustre performances, Aurier has been impressive for Spurs this season with his fine defensive displays and his attacking contributions of two goals in 13 Premier League matches.

The former Paris Saint-Germain defender, however, stated how he tries to improve his game and he also applauded Jose Mourinho for his support even when he performs below par.

"When people know about football they know you can't play 150 matches and 150 good matches. One in 10 matches, I may play badly and people say 'no, you don't have the right',” Aurier told Soccer Stories – Oh my Goal via Football London.

"But I do. I'm not a robot, it's not like the Playstation. It's not like pressing a button and things happen. You are allowed to mess up sometimes.

"So if Mourinho came out to defend me, it's because it was a period when I gave a lot and I was good. So yes 'Serge can mess up once, but he does it again, I won't be able to defend him, but he can mess up in one game out of 10'.

"It is the way the relationship works. I don't like being the coach's buddy. We are professionals. It means do your job, I'll do mine, because if tomorrow the club wants me out because I'm not good enough, I won't take you in my suitcase.

"Same for the coach. If you have to be fired because the results are not good, they won't kick me out along with you. We both have to do our job and take our responsibilities.

"Football is a collective sport but also individual in a way."

Aurier is out of Tottenham squad for Thursday’s Uefa Europa League clash with Wolfsberger AC due to a calf injury and he is also expected to miss their Premier League fixture against West Ham United on Sunday.

“Serge, sadly, may be even more time than Sergio,” Mourinho said in a press conference. “I would say that Sergio has some chances for Sunday, many chances for the second leg. I don’t believe Serge Aurier can do either of these two, and, of course, Gio is not there.”

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Onuachu extends scoring run as Makhtar Gueye double powers KV Oostende past Genk

The Nigeria forward continued his fine goalscoring form in Belgium but his effort was not enough to save his team from defeat on Wednesday

Paul Onuachu scored his 23rd goal in the Belgian First Division A on Wednesday but it was not enough as Genk suffered a 3-1 loss against KV Oostende.

The 26-year-old opened the scoring for Genk in the 10th minute after slotting his strike past goalkeeper Guillaume Hubert from the penalty spot.

Shortly after his opener, Senegal striker Makhtar Gueye grabbed an equaliser for the hosts from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute and he also fired them into the lead, four minutes later with another strike from the spot.

KV Oostende completed the comeback courtesy of Arthur Theate's 58th-minute goal as they secured back-to-back league wins at the Diaz Arena.

Despite Onuachu's fine goalscoring streak, Genk are winless in last three First Division A matches and they have only registered just a win in their last eight league outings.

The opener was Onuachu's first league goal since he grabbed a brace against Zulte-Waregem on January 27 and it also extended his dominance at the summit of the scorer's chart with 23 goals after 26 league appearances.

He is still the top scoring Nigerian player in Europe and he was in the game for the entire duration.

Meanwhile, his compatriot Cyriel Dessers was introduced as a 64th-minute substitute but he find the back of the net as he awaits his first league goal since his effort against Royal Antwerp on December 6.

KV Oostende, on the other hand, had Senegal duo Gueye and Mamadou Thiam, alongside Zambia's Fashion Sakala on parade in Tuesday's fixture.

After the defeat, Genk still sit above KV Oostende in the First Division A table with a point lead after gathering 43 points from 27 games.

Onuachu will be expected to lead the Smurfs when they host Beerschot for their next league match on Sunday.

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Omeruo scores first goal of the season, Sadiq on target as Leganes secure victory over Almeria

The Nigeria stars found the back of the net as the Cucumber Growers defeated Jose Gomes’ men at Estadio Municipal de Butarque

Kenneth Omeruo and Umar Sadiq were on the scoresheet in Leganes’ 2-1 victory over Almeria in Wednesday’s Segunda Division game.

Omeruo has been with the Cucumber Growers since 2018, initially on loan before he was permanently signed from Premier League giants Chelsea.

The centre-back made spirited effort to try and help his side maintain their La Liga status last season but his contribution was not enough to save the Estadio Municipal de Butarque outfit from relegation.

Notwithstanding the Cucumber Growers’ drop to the Spanish second division, the Nigeria international chose to continue his stay with the club.

The defender struggled with injury problems at the start of the season and against Jose Gomes’ men, he was handed his 20th league appearance and utilized the opportunity to score his first goal in the Segunda Division.

Omeruo’s effort helped Leganes extend their winning run to four games, having last tasted defeat against Las Palmas on January 24.

His compatriot Sadiq was one of the standout performers for Almeria in the encounter, scoring his 11th league goal to boost his chances of getting his first call-up to the Nigeria national team.

The Union started the game on an impressive note when Sadiq opened the scoring in the eighth minute of the encounter.

Borja Baston then levelled matters for the Cucumber Growers in the 48th minute after he was set up by Jonathan Silva.

With the game looking to end in a draw, Omeruo then scored the match-winning goal in the 90th minute after an assist from Javier Aviles.

Omeruo featured for the duration of the game along with Sadiq, who has now bagged 19 goals across all competitions and provided six assists.

With the draw, Leganes climbed to the fourth spot on the league table after 46 points from 25 games while Almeria are third on the table despite their defeat.

The Nigeria stars will be expected to continue their impressive performances for their respective clubs in their next outings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

We can’t always rely on Nurkovic - Kaizer Chiefs' Hunt left frustrated after AmaZulu FC defeat

The experienced tactician explained how Mashiane's early substitution affected Amakhosi, who now winless in five matches

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Gavin Hunt says Samir Nurkovic's poor form is disturbing the Soweto giants following their defeat to AmaZulu FC on Wednesday afternoon.

Two goals from Augustine Mulenga and Lehlohonolo Majoro inspired Usuthu to a 2-1 win over Amakhosi in a PSL match at FNB Stadium. 

Happy Mashiane was substituted just 15 minutes into the game after picking up an injury and Hunt believes that the early substitution disrupted Amakhosi's game plan.

“Disappointing again, making a change in the first five minutes, changing the balance of the team. It was working well in the first half. I thought we did quite well, getting a few times behind," Hunt told SuperSport TV.

“So making the change, the balance goes a little bit. But there was nothing in the game, I thought we did ok. We could’ve snatched it ourselves and obviously, we got a bit of a lucky goal and that what’s happened."

“We made a change in the department and there was another mistake so that’s what it is, but we got to keep soldiering on and keep believe and keep working.

“We just felt that with the shape change and the change of the first five minutes, we needed to change the shape of the team and you got to do that," he continued. 

"So that’s what we did and then obviously at the end we’re chasing a little bit and we had to do it again because of the situation,” he added.

Nurkovic extended his goal-drought to seven competitive matches after failing to score against Usuthu with Leonardo Castro having netted Amakhosi's consolation goal. 

“We came back and we even had some good chances. I don’t know if Samir should’ve scored there with the header. He hasn’t scored now in how many games? So it’s a bit disturbing there," Hunt added.

“But we can’t always rely on him we should be doing better in other areas. Our final ball wasn’t as good as it should be, but as I said one error, right at halftime again. As I said, we had to change the team and it doesn’t help you."

Chiefs remained ninth on the standings following their defeat to AmaZulu and they are set to face SuperSport United in a PSL match on Saturday.

Original author: Austin Ditlhobolo

Haaland sets Champions League records for quickest scoring start - early returns smash those of Mbappe, Messi, Ronaldo

Erling Haaland became the first player in Champions League history to score at least 17 goals in his first 13 appearances - but he didn't stop there.

Minutes after putting Dortmund ahead of Sevilla in the last-16 of the Champions League, the 20-year-old Dortmund striker struck again with a composed low finish to the far post with his lethal left foot.

On a stage that has minted so many attacking superstars in its history, Haaland has so far stood above the rest in terms of finding the net.

What record did Haaland break against Sevilla?

After previously becoming the fastest to five and 10 goals in Champions League play, Haaland became the only player to reach at least 17 goals in his first 13 appearances in the competition. He padded that mark soon after.

He has scored 10 Champions League goals in just seven appearances for Borussia Dortmund, the quickest a player has ever reached 10 goals for a single team in the competition, breaking Roy Makaay's record with Bayern Munich.

With Haaland's second accurate finish on Wednesday, he moved into a tie with Robert Lewandowski for most Champions League goals since the start of last season.

How does Haaland compare to other memorable Champions League starts?

Haaland holds an edge over many of today's most celebrated European attackers by way of pure early-career goalscoring.

Lewandowski and Luis Suarez hadn't yet featured in the Champions League when they were Haaland's age (20), while Cristiano Ronaldo had failed to score in 1,299 minutes of action at Manchester United.

Haaland has averaged about 1.64 goals per 90 minutes in the competition to this point, far more than Lionel Messi (0.47) and Kylian Mbappe (0.67) had through their age-20 campaigns.

Further reading

ISL 2020-21: Chennaiyin vs NorthEast United - TV channel, stream, kick-off time & match preview

The Highlanders need a win to become the third team to seal their play-off berth this season...

Chennaiyin play for pride as they look for their first win in eight games when they face NorthEast United in the 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) at the GMC Stadium in Bambolim, on Thursday evening.

Game Chennaiyin vs NorthEast United
Date Thursday, February 18
Time 7:30 PM IST (GMT +5:30)
 

TV CHANNELS & LIVE STREAM

The Star Sports Network have the exclusive broadcasting rights of the ISL in India.

India (English) TV channels Online streaming
Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 2 SD & HD Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV


Commentary will also be available in vernacular languages across India.

Hindi TV channels Bengali TV channels
Star Sports Hindi 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 3, Star Gold 2 Star Sports Bangla
 
Malayalam TV channels Kannada TV channels
Asianet Plus, Asianet Movies Star Sports Kannada
 
Tamil TV Channels Telegu TV channels
Star Sports Tamil Star Sports Telugu

 

 TEAM NEWS

Chennaiyin Possible XI:

Injured - Aman Chetri
Doubtful - Anirudh Thapa
Suspended - None

Key Players - Jakub Sylvestr, Manuel Lanzarote


NorthEast United Possible XI: 

Injured - None
Doubtful - None
Suspended - Gurjinder Kumar

Key Players - Federico Gallego, Luis Machado  

 

Original author: Anselm Noronha

'Pepe is making a lot of progress' - Arteta hails turnaround in £72m Arsenal star's form

The 25-year-old has yet to live up to expectations in north London but has been producing improved displays of late

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has praised the turnaround in form that winger Nicolas Pepe has enjoyed in recent weeks. 

Pepe has started just eight times in the Premier League this season but four of those have come in Arsenal's last five matches. 

The Ivorian has scored twice in those games, giving a hint that he could rediscover the form that saw the Gunners pay £72 million ($99m) to sign him from Lille in 2019.

What did Arteta say about Pepe?

"The fact that we have the Europa League gave the opportunity to almost everyone in the squad to be fit and available and compete for their place," Arteta told reporters.

"[Pepe] has had some really good matches and scored some important goals as well and I think that has helped him for the Premier League form and the recent form that he's shown.

"I've seen a lot of things, in his mentality, the way he approaches every training session, in his understanding of the game as well.

"It's true that he has patches where he's played more than at other times. He has had the opportunity over the last couple of months that probably every player has been seeking to have but I think overall there is a lot of progress with Nico."

Pepe's time at Arsenal

Big things were expected of Pepe when Arsenal made him their most expensive signing ever in July 2019. 

After a season in which he scored 23 goals for Lille however, Pepe failed to reproduce his best form last season in his debut campaign with the Gunners, netting just eight times. 

Pepe has had an up-and-down campaign in 2020-21 thus far as well. The low point may have been a red card against Leeds in November, damaging the Gunners in just his second league start of the season.

The 25-year-old has performed well in the Europa League, netting three times in six games, while he has recently begun to grow in stature in the Premier League as well.

What's next for Pepe and Arsenal?

The Gunners are set to face Benfica in the Europa League last 32 on Thursday, before facing high-flying Manchester City on Sunday in Premier League action.

Further reading

Odegaard can be one of world's best players - Arteta

The Gunners coach has been impressed by the Norway international since his arrival from Real Madrid and sees him as a leader

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta believes Martin Odegaard has the potential to be one of the world's best players.

The 22-year-old, who joined the Gunners on loan from Real Madrid in January, was billed as one of the most promising young players in the game as the world's top teams lined up to sign him when he was just 15.

The Norwegian ultimately chose Madrid to start his career, but ended up on loan at Heerenveen, Vitesse and Real Sociedad to gain some first-team experience.

Although the Santiago Bernabeu side initially decided to include him in Zinedine Zidane's squad at the start of this season, he was shipped to north London after making just nine senior appearances.

What has been said

Odegaard has featured three times in the Premier League for Arsenal this term and Arteta has been impressed by him.  

"Well, he’s got the potential [to be one of the best]. I followed him very closely when he was at Real Sociedad and he was really impressive over there for long periods," the coach said at a press conference ahead of his side's Europa League clash against Benfica.

"He had a really successful season over there and that’s one of the reasons why I was so convinced that he’s a player for us. He’s a player that I really like and, as you say, still has huge potential to become even better."

He continued: "All positive from my first conversations with him. He’s a really focused and humble boy that was really keen to join.

"He’s a really nice guy, the players like him, the staff like him, he’s easy going, a really hard worker and I’ve been very impressed with his leadership. He looks a little bit calm but on the pitch he’s got something about him."

Odegaard's character

Arteta believes the Norway international has the makings of a leader and is happy with the decisions he makes on the ball, too.

"When I talk about leadership, it's how he talks to his team-mates, how he commands the high press and then the personality he shows," he said.

"Every time the opponent comes after him, he still shows for the ball in the right areas. His decision making is really good and he's a really intelligent player."

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Nigeria coach Rohr: Club-less Musa will find joy to play again

The Super Eagles captain is yet to find a new club since he left Saudi Arabia in October

Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr said he is hopeful Ahmed Musa will find a new club soon and rediscover his best form.

The former Leicester City attacker's proposed move to West Bromwich Albion as a free agent, broke down this month due to financial constraints and he is still yet to join a club.

Musa left Saudi Arabia top-flight club Al Nassr in October 2020 after winning the Saudi Pro League title and the Saudi Super Cup during his two-year stint.

After visiting the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos ahead of next month's 2022 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho, Rohr assured that the 28-year-old – who has proven to be a key player for the Super Eagles – will be back to his best soon.

"It's unfortunate it didn't work out at West Brom but I believe Musa will find another club soon," Rohr told BBC Sport Africa.

"He has the ambition to get back as quickly as he can to play football again at club level.

"Musa made a great impact for us in big matches like against Iceland in Russia, that is a reminder of the ability he has.

"I have no doubt he can discover his best form, the happiness and joy to play again. This will be good for us because we can get to see that impact in our squad."

When asked further if Musa would be included in his upcoming selection, the German tactician reserved his comments.

Last November, the forward was included in their double-header outing against Sierra Leone and he even played for some minutes despite being without a club.

Musa has played 95 matches for the Super Eagles since his debut outing in August 2010 (vs. Madagascar), he is five games behind Joseph Yobo (100) and six appearances behind the country's all-time most capped player Vincent Enyeama (101).

Original author: Taiye Taiwo

Aubameyang will face 'consequences' if guilty of Covid-19 rules breach, says Arsenal boss Arteta

The Gunners have been investigating whether their captain broke protocols by getting a new tattoo

Mikel Arteta refused to confirm whether Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had broken Covid-19 protocols by getting a new tattoo but insisted the Arsenal skipper would be dealt with internally if he was found to have done so.

Pictures and footage emerged last week which appeared to show the 31-year-old had been given a new inking by Spanish tattoo artist Alejandro Nicolas Bernal.

The images initially appeared on Bernal’s Instagram story, but it was unclear when and where Aubameyang had been given the new tattoo and whether Bernal was part of the Gabon international's Covid bubble.

Arsenal confirmed on Tuesday that they were investigating the situation and would speak with the striker to determine all the facts before deciding whether any further action was necessary.

But speaking at his press conference ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League tie with Benfica, Arteta would not confirm whether any rules were found to have been broken.

What did Arteta say?

When asked about the situation with Aubameyang, the Arsenal boss said: “Whatever we do with our players, we keep it internal.

"It's true that a lot of the members of our squad have extended families at home and if a player does something that is not within the regulations obviously, the club acts immediately but always privately.

“We tried to advise every player and make sure that they know all the rules and that we have to stick to those rules all the time. If someone doesn’t do it, obviously we have to act immediately.

"Again, I cannot tell you who every player lives with, but we do and when somebody does something you shouldn’t be doing, obviously it’s going to get found out from us and there will be consequences. And if not, there won’t be."

Has Aubameyang travelled with the squad to Rome?

Aubameyang has flown out to Italy with the rest of the squad for Thursday night’s Europa League tie against Benfica.

The first leg of the last-32 clash had been switched from Lisbon to Rome due to the coronavirus pandemic, while the second leg will be played in Athens instead of north London.

In a boost to Arsenal, Kieran Tierney has also travelled with the squad after recovering from a knee injury, but midfielder Thomas Partey remains sidelined with a hamstring problem.

“Thomas didn’t travel," said Arteta. "He is not there yet. He is still training individually.

“Kieran has had one session with us and he is part of the squad.”

Further reading

Original author: Charles Watts

Aina scores second career Premier League goal as Fulham hold Burnley

The 24-year-old Nigeria international found the back of the net to help the Cottagers avoid defeat at Turf Moor

Ola Aina scored his second Premier League goal as Fulham played out a 1-1 draw with Burnley on Wednesday night.

The wing-back is no stranger to the English top-flight, having featured in the elite league during his time with Chelsea, where he spent more than a decade.

The Nigeria international moved to Italy in 2019, joining Serie A side Torino permanently and returned to England last summer, teaming up with the Cottagers on a season-long loan.

The wing-back has been delivering impressive performances for the Craven Cottage outfit since his arrival.

The 24-year-old inspired Scott Parker’s men to victory against Everton in their last league game, setting up his compatriot Josh Maja to open the scoring in the encounter.

Aina was handed his 20th Premier League appearance against the Clarets and utilized the opportunity to be on the scoresheet.

The defender’s effort helped Fulham to continue their unbeaten form after ending their eight-game winless run against the Toffees.

Maja, Ademola Lookman and Tosin Adarabioyo also started the game along with their compatriot Aina and impressed.

Fulham began the game brightly with Lookman making several efforts to try and open the scoring in the encounter.

The forward fired a fine shot in the second minute of the game but his effort was blocked, he then tried to locate a teammate with a pass in the area but again, it was blocked which resulted in a VAR check.

After carefully considering the situation a penalty was not awarded for Fulham.

In the 14th minute, Fulham came close to scoring when Adarabioyo directed his header on target but goalkeeper Nick Pope was in the right place at the right time, saving effortlessly.

With four minutes left before the half-time break, Lookman swung a fine cross into the area which was connected by Gabon international Mario Lemina but he fired his effort wide off target.

After the restart, Fulham continued to push for the opening goal and got it in the 49th minute when Aina broke the deadlock with a fine strike after receiving an assist from Joachim Andersen.

Burnley then levelled proceedings in the 53rd minute when Ashley Barnes found the back of the net after he was set up by Jay Rodriguez.

Aina featured for the duration of the game along with his compatriots Maja, Lookman and Adarabioyo.

Lemina was on parade for 61 minutes before making way for Cameroon international Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa.

Despite the draw, Fulham remain in the relegation zone after gathering 19 points from 24 games and will hope to secure all three points in their next outing against Sheffield United on February 20.

 

Original author: Gbenga Adewoye

Bellingham becomes youngest English player to start Champions League knockout match

The Borussia Dortmund midfielder broke a record previously held by Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden

Jude Bellingham became the youngest English player to ever start a Champions League knockout stage match when he lined up for Borussia Dortmund against Sevilla on Wednesday. 

At 17 years and 233 days, Bellingham set the record when he started his side's last-16 match at the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium in Seville.

Bellingham has slotted in well with the Bundesliga outfit in his first season after making the move from Championship outfit Birmingham.

Whose record did Bellingham break?

The previous holder of the record was Manchester City star Phil Foden, who started in the last-16 against Basel at age 17 years, 283 days in March 2018.

How has Bellingham fared at Dortmund?

Bellingham joined Dortmund for a reported £25 million (€29m/$35m) fee last summer, making him the most expensive 17-year-old in football history.

The teenager was given his first Dortmund start in the DFB-Pokal against third-tier MSV Duisburg on September 14, and he managed to record his first goal for the club during the 5-0 victory.

That has been Bellingham's only goal with Dortmund thus far, but he has become a regular for the Bundesliga outfit in 2020-21 despite his young age. 

Bellingham has made 26 total appearances for the club this season, 17 of which have been starts. He has played in all but four of the club's Bundesliga matches this season, missing two due to injury. 

The teenager's form also saw him earn his first senior England cap in November, when he came off the bench in a friendly against Republic of Ireland. 

Further reading

Original author: Goal

Man City put three past Everton in victory at Goodison

That brings an end to our coverage of the Premier League fixture between Everton and Manchester City at Goodison Park. Thank you very much for joining us. Goodbye! 

Everton travel to Anfield to face Liverpool for the Merseyside derby next time out in the Premier League. Manchester City, meanwhile, play Arsenal at Emirates Stadium and will be looking to continue their impressive form. 

Following a competitive fixture, Manchester City leave Goodison Park with all three points and extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to 10 points. Foden fired Guardiola’s team into the lead just after the half-hour mark, before a slice of good fortune saw Richarlison equalise five minutes later. After the break, the Citizens turned on the style, with second-half goals from Mahrez and Silva putting the game beyond Everton.

90' + 4' FULL TIME: EVERTON 1-3 MANCHESTER CITY 

90' + 3' CLOSE! Mahrez picks the ball up a few yards outside of the Everton penalty area and works his way into the box before sending a left-footed shot just wide of the far post. 

90' + 2' There is going to be a momentary stoppage in play as Cancelo is down after being caught on the knee by Rodriguez. He is now back to his feet and able to continue. 

90' There will be three minutes of added time at the end of this match. 

88' Doucoure picks up the ball down the right flank and looks to drive Everton up the field. From deep, the Frenchman attempts to find Richarlison, but Dias is well placed to intercept the long-range pass.  

86' Jesus shows great pace to skip away from Holgate down the left flank and drive into the box, although his pass for Mahrez is hooked to safety by Digne.  

84' The Toffees have dropped deeper into their own half for the closing stages of this game, but City continue to look for further goal-scoring opportunities. 

82' Digne’s flick on from Keane’s long, searching pass almost sets King away in behind, but Ederson is quickly off his line to snuff out the threat. 

79' Silva has now scored and assisted in a single Premier League game for the first time since March 2019 against Fulham. 

75' Only Mohamed Salah (74) has scored more left-footed Premier League goals since the start of the 2014-15 season than Mahrez (48). 

73' Richarlison backs into Dias in seeking to bring down a lofted forward pass, and manages to win a free-kick just inside the Citizens’ half from the Portuguese defender. 

71' City are now content to knock the ball around in central areas as they patiently look for openings. Everton, meanwhile, are penned in their own half. 

65' Cancelo lofts a cross in from the left, but it is easily collected by Pickford. 

61' JUST WIDE! Foden’s in-swinging corner from the right is met by Rodrigo, but his close-range header fizzes beyond the far post. That was not too far away.  

59' Foden forces Coleman to turn and run back towards his goal after applying relentless pressure on the full-back. Pickford then opts to go long to try and beat the press.

57' Iwobi almost manages to collect the loose ball and launch a counter, although Rodrigo was alert to the threat and moved across to make a vital interception. 

55' GREAT MOVE! Walker drives in field with the ball and sets Jesus away down the left side of the penalty area. The Brazilian takes a touch to set himself, but fires his left-footed shot wide of the near post. He should do better there. 

54' Sterling switches the play over to the right flank for Mahrez, but the Algerian’s low cross is easily gathered by Pickford. 

53' The last team to beat City in a top-flight game after conceding the first goal were Leicester back in September.

51' SMART SAVE! Cancelo finds Jesus inside the hosts’ box with a ball over the top, and Holgate inadvertently lays it into the path of Silva. From the right side of the area, the winger fires towards the bottom-right corner, but Pickford is quickly down to parry the strike away. 

49' Richarlison is caught late and from behind by Dias, and the home side win a free-kick midway inside their half. 

47' Rodrigo works the ball over to the right for Mahrez, who darts inside and goes for goal, but his effort is blocked by Holgate. 

46' We are back underway! Marriner, the referee, blows his whistle and Everton get the second half kicked off. 

Despite having few clear-cut chances, Ancelotti will be pleased with his team’s first-half display. The Toffees have looked dangerous on numerous occasions when advancing down the right through Iwobi, and that will likely be an area that the hosts will look to target after the break. Guardiola, on the other hand, will hope to see more ruthlessness from his side in the second half. The Citizens have dominated the ball throughout, but have thus far failed to ask too many questions of Pickford. 

After a tightly-contested opening half, there is nothing to separate Everton and City and half-time. The hosts started the game brightly with Jesus lifting a close-range effort over the bar on 18 minutes, before Foden broke the deadlock when his deflected shot looped beyond Pickford just after the half-hour mark. Everton, however, were not behind for long. Five minutes later, Digne struck the post with a fierce strike and the ball cannoned into the centre of the goal from close range off Richarlison.  

45' + 2' HALF TIME: EVERTON 1-1 MANCHESTER CITY 

45' There will be two minutes of added time at the end of this half. 

43' Foden barges into the back of Davies when competing for an aerial ball, and Everton are awarded a free-kick on the edge of their own area.  

41' Following his goal, only Sterling (20) and De Bruyne (18) have been involved in more goals for City in all competitions this season than Foden (17). 

39' SAVE! Rodrigo’s cross is nodded down by Keane and Foden unleashes a well-struck volley towards goal from the edge of area. Pickford watches it all the way and claims the effort at his near post.

36' Davies is caught by Rodrigo deep inside the hosts’ half and the referee awards Everton a free-kick.  

34' The home side push forward looking for an immediate response. From the right, Iwobi opens up his body to whip a cross into the box, although it sails over the top of Ederson’s goal. 

32' Mahrez shifts the ball expertly onto his left foot after creating a yard of space and floats a dangerous cross towards the far post. With Sterling lurking, Keane nods it behind for a corner. 

30' Sterling has scored in each of his last four away appearances for the Citizens in all competitions. The last City player to score in five in a row was Aguero between April and September in 2019. Can the Englishman find the breakthrough at Goodison Park? 

26' The away side work the ball over to the left-hand side of the Everton penalty area for Jesus, who cuts inside and sees his right-footed shot blocked by Keane. 

24' Laporte attempts to thread the ball forward for Sterling, who is being held by Coleman. Free-kick City. 

23' Holgate fires a pinpoint pass down the left-hand side for Digne to chase. The Frenchman does well initially to control the ball, but Walker shows his strength to hold off the Everton full-back and regain possession for the visitors. 

21' The Toffees are struggling to get hold of the ball and break out of their own half at present. Foden picks up a dangerous position down the left, although his throughball for Sterling runs through for Pickford to gather. 

19' Walker finds space down the right to whip a cross in towards the back post, but his delivery sails behind for a goal-kick. 

17' GREAT CHANCE! Davies sloppily loses the ball midway inside his own half, and Rodrigo pounces to loft a throughball in behind the hosts’ defence for Jesus. The Brazilian takes a touch to set himself before lifting his effort from the centre of the box over the bar.  

15' There is going to be a brief stoppage in play as Mina is down and in need of treatment. Coleman is readying himself. 

14' NO PENALTY! Silva skips beyond Keane down the right side of the Everton penalty area before going to ground under pressure from the Englishman. The referee awards a corner, and that decision is confirmed by VAR. 

12' Richarlison steals the ball from Silva on the halfway line and looks to run at the visitors’ defence. His first touch, however, is heavy, and City are able to regain possession.  

10' The Citizens win another corner, and Keane rises highest to power Foden’s set-piece delivery to safety. 

9' Sterling gets the better of Holgate and wins a corner to the left off Mina. The out-swinging delivery from Foden comes to nothing. 

7' Mahrez looks to drive at Godfrey and whip the ball into the box, although his delivery deflects off the Everton defender into Davies. Silva then picks up the loose ball and sees his effort towards the bottom-right corner saved by Pickford. 

6' Thus far, Guardiola’s side have had 76 per cent of the possession. 

4' Iwobi does well to retain possession in an advanced position down the right-hand side of the field before laying the ball off for Holgate. His cross into the area is hooked to safety at the second time of asking by Laporte. 

2' SAVE! The visitors have settled nicely into their rhythm in the opening stages. Cancelo picks the ball up in a central area outside the box, cuts onto his right foot, and forces a save from Pickford at his near post. 

1' Kick off! The referee, Andre Marriner, blows his whistle and City get the game underway. 

The teams are out, and kick-off will soon be upon us here at Goodison Park. 

Everton have won just one of their last 14 Premier League games against Manchester City (D4 L9), winning 4-0 in January 2017 at Goodison Park.

Heading into this match, Ancelotti’s team have struggled at Goodison Park of late, failing to win at home in any of their last four Premier League matches. Not only that, but the Toffees last kept a top-flight clean sheet against Sheffield United at the end at December. However, Everton currently sit seventh in the table, and will go level on points with Liverpool should they beat City. The Citizens, on the other hand, are on an 11-match unbeaten run and are seven points clear of Manchester United at the top of the table. On the road, Guardiola’s side have been defensively solid, conceding only twice in their previous six away games. 

Carlo Ancelotti makes four changes from the Everton side that lost to Fulham last time out. Pickford, Mina, Keane and Iwobi come in to start ahead of Olsen, Coleman, Gomes and Rodriguez. The City line-up, on the other hand, features three alterations from their three-goal win over Tottenham. Dias and Walker replace Stones and Zinchenko, while Mahrez starts in place of Ilkay Gundogan, who misses out with a groin injury.

MANCHESTER CITY SUBS: Zack Steffen, John Stones, Eric Garcia, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Benjamin Mendy, Fernandinho, Kevin De Bruyne, Ferran Torres, Sergio Aguero.

EVERTON SUBS: Robin Olsen, Seamus Coleman, Niels Nkounkou, Andre Gomes, Tyler Onyango, Fabian Delph, Bernard, James Rodriguez, Joshua King.  

MANCHESTER CITY (4-3-3): Ederson; Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Aymeric Laporte, Joao Cancelo; Bernardo Silva, Rodrigo, Phil Foden; Riyad Mahrez, Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus.  

EVERTON (3-4-3): Jordan Pickford; Yerry Mina, Michael Keane, Mason Holgate; Ben Godfrey, Tom Davies, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Lucas Digne; Gylfi Sigurdsson, Alex Iwobi, Richarlison. 

Everton are looking for a response against Pep Guardiola’s team following their 2-0 defeat to Fulham in their previous top-flight outing. Manchester City, meanwhile, will be full of confidence after beating Tottenham 3-0 last time out. 

Hello and welcome to live match coverage of the Premier League fixture between Everton and Manchester City at Goodison Park. 

Tau highlights where Mamelodi Sundowns have an edge

Downs are yet to be beaten in the league in 16 matches this term; the only game they've lost all season was the opening day MTN8 loss to Bloem Celtic

Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates defender Jimmy Tau has underlined how Mamelodi Sundowns’ superiority saw them through to 2-0 victory over a plucky Baroka FC side at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Sundowns were not completely at their best and Baroka enjoyed, but squandered, some good chances to take something from the game.

Instead it was Downs' ability to absorb the pressure and to manage to find the all-important breakthroughs at the other end, which saw them grinding out a hard-fought win.

It was the kind of victory which sometimes marks out league champions; the ability to win against fired-up opposition even when not fully firing on all cylinders.

Certainly it was Bakgaga who had enjoyed the upper hand in a goal-less first half at Loftus. Downs were better in the second half and scored in the 63rd and 68th minutes, through Gaston Sirino and Peter Shalulile, respectively.

"I think in the second half Sundowns came back with a much different game-plan altogether," former Chiefs and Pirates defender Tau said in his role as a SuperSport TV analyst after the match.

"It was more to take control of the game, yet Baroka came in and created chances. When you look on the balance of play, Baroka did have chances where they could have actually stolen this game.”

Tau believes it was ultimately the Brazilians’ superior class – their composure and experience - which ensured victory for the Tshwane side.

"When you look at the composure from Sundowns, you then realise the level of experience. They were able to control the game, and they got the crucial goals," Tau explained.

The victory for the defending league champions took them five points clear of second-placed SuperSport United, with Swallows FC a further two points back.

The Brazilians are in search of a fourth consecutive league title and an 11th in total since the inception of the Premier Soccer League in 1996.

Their next match is in the Caf Champions League – away in Algeria against CR Belouizdad on 23 February.

Downs opened their Group B campaign last weekend with a 2-0 home win over Sudan outfit Al-Hilal Omdurman.

Haaland on fire in Dortmund victory in Seville

That's all from us today folks, we hope you enjoyed the game!

The German side have the away goals advantage, but a late Sevilla goal gives them hope of getting a result in three weeks time. Both teams return to domestic action now, with Sevilla facing Osasuna in LaLiga, whilst Dortmund travel to Schalke in the Bundesliga.

Dortmund hold a slim advantage after a 3-2 victory over Sevilla in the first leg of their Round of 16 Champions League clash. They led 3-1 at the break and sat back for much of the second half, with Sevilla needing to push on, but their goal didn't come until the 84th minute through De Jong and it was then too late to get an equaliser. They did have a late penalty shout, but VAR stuck with the referee's decision and nothing was given.

90' + 5' FULL-TIME: SEVILLA 2-3 DORTMUND

90' + 4' NO PENALTY! The VAR check is over and the decision on the pitch stands, there will be no late penalty for Sevilla.

90' + 3' PENALTY CHECK! Meunier seems to hold onto De Jong as the striker tries to get on the end of a cross into the box and he goes down claiming a foul. However, the referee doesn't award anything, but VAR have paused the game and will take a look.

90' + 1' Good effort! The ball falls to Carlos just inside the box and he drills a shot towards goal, but it is too close to Hitz and the Dortmund keeper makes a decent save.

90' There will be a minimum of three minutes added time played at the end of the second half.

90' CLOSE! Wonderful move by Sancho, he does brilliantly down the left wing, cuts inside and lays it out to Brandt, who gives it back to him and he tries to curl it into the bottom left-hand corner of the net. However, it flies just inches wide of the post.

87' Rodriguez steps up to take a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area on the left, he should cross into the box, but instead goes for goal himself and it flies high over the crossbar. Poor effort.

86' The goal has kicked Sevilla into life now, can they get a late equaliser and pull off a shock result?

83' Aged 17 years and 233 days, Bellingham is the youngest ever English player to start a game in the knockout stages of the Champions League. He has been very impressive today as well.

81' Decent effort! Brandt goes for an ambitious overhead bicycle kick at goal, but he gets too much on it and it flies high over the crossbar.

79' Just over 10 minutes left now for us to see any more goals, which don't look likely at the moment, as Dortmund aren't interested in pushing forward and Sevilla just haven't been in top form.

75' This is better from the hosts, they have just started to pick up the pace and the free-kick chance a few minutes ago was their best opportunity since the goal.

73' OFF THE POST! What a save by Hitz to deny Rodriguez from a wonderful free-kick around 25 yards out. The substitute gets the ball up and over the wall and it seems to be heading into the top left-hand corner of the net, but it strikes the post and then hits the hand of Hitz, which stops it from travelling over the line and Dortmund clear the danger.

71' SAVE! Bellingham isn't closed down as the ball falls to him on the edge of the penalty area and he volleys an effort towards goal, but Bounou makes a good save, pushing it out wide. Reus picks up the rebound, but his shot is blocked and falls to Haaland, who battles for it deep inside the area. However, the flag does up for offside anyway.

70' Haaland, Sancho and Reus have been quieter in the second period, with Dortmund have to do more defending, so the attacking trio have had to get back behind the ball and sit inside their own half.

68' There is still plenty of time for Sevilla to get back into this game, but as it stands you would think that Dortmund hold a massive advantage for the second leg, with the win and three away goals.

66' Dortmund are in the knockout stages of the Champions League for the seventh time in their last eight appearances. They haven’t progressed past the round of 16 since 2016/17 – they were eventually knocked out by Monaco in the quarter-finals.

64' CLOSE! Navas does well down the right wing, he drills a low cross into the box, which falls to Escudero at the far post and he fires a shot towards the bottom right-hand corner of the net. However, he doesn't get enough contact on it and the ball flies wide of the post.

62' Sevilla may change their approach now, with De Jong on the pitch as they can go more direct and let him challenge for the ball in the air with the Dortmund defence, who haven't been tested since the goal.

58' Another slow Sevilla attack that comes to nothing, it ends with Escudero firing a low cross towards the box, but it is blocked and then gathered by Hitz, preventing a corner.

56' It looks like the hosts are getting ready to make a few more changes to try and get back into the game. There could be a number of players who come off as no one has shone in the opening 56 minutes.

54' Despite being 3-1 down, Sevilla aren't showing an awful lot of intent and desire to get forward and pull one back. They seem short of ideas and Hitz is yet to be tested.

52' Sancho has three assists in six Champions League games this season, he had three in 15 appearances across the two previous seasons for Dortmund.

50' Almost another counter by Dortmund after the hosts once again lose the ball in the middle of the pitch. However, luckily for them this time Haaland can't get his pass away in time and they win it back.

48' Sevilla with the early possession here in the second half, but it is very slow and they just can't seem to pick up the pace and get forward to test the visitors.

46' The second half is under way!

Sevilla just dropped off after their goal and haven't really got going again, they are playing slow football and it is making it easy for Dortmund to defend. There could be a few more goals after the break.

Dortmund lead 3-1 at the break, despite Sevilla taking an early lead through Suso after just seven minutes. However, their lead didn’t last long and Dortmund pushed forward and a terrific strike by Dahoud pulled them level, before Haaland fired them ahead and then made it three just before half-time.

45' + 1' HALF-TIME: SEVILLA 1-3 DORTMUND

45' There will be a minimum of one minute added time played at the end of the first half.

41' Haaland has scored against all eight teams he's faced in the Champions League, netting 17 goals in 13 games and only Robert Lewandowski has more goals than him in this competition since the start of last season.

39' There’s not long left to play before the end of the first half now, can Sevilla get an equaliser before the half-time whistle?

37' Blocked! Gomez with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, but it is well blocked by Hummels. The rebound the falls to Carlos, but his header is comfortably saved by Hitz.

36' Sevilla are starting to dominate possession, with Dortmund camped inside their own half at the moment. However, the pace of their play is quite slow and they don't look like testing the Dortmund defence.

34' SAVE! Bounou is forced into action to deny Haaland after he is fed through on goal by Dahoud and he aims for the top left-hand corner of the net. However, it is too close to the keeper and he tips it over the crossbar.

33' Apart from the Sevilla goal, they haven't had any other chances on goal and En-Nesyri has hardly touched the ball, they just aren't getting it through to him.

31' We’re past the half an hour mark here and it is Dortmund who lead 2-1 after overturning Suso's opening strike, thanks to goals from Dahoud and Haaland.

29' Sevilla have hosted German opposition 12 times previously in European competition – they’ve only lost one of those 12 matches (W7 D4), against Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals of the 2017/18 Champions League (1-2).

25' It looks like Akanji has a problem for Dortmund, the medical staff are on the pitch and it looks like he may have to come off, with players starting to get warmed up on the sidelines.

23' Lovely move! Dortmund with a terrific counter-attack and they should test Bounou, as Haaland breaks forward and then lays it out wide to Reus, who plays it back to him and Haaland probably should fire an effort towards goal, but instead he plays a one-two with Reus. However, the winger is pushed too far out wide for a shot and has to cross instead, which is cleared behind.

21' A vital away goal for Dortmund, something that they will have wanted to get today to give themselves a little advantage in the second leg. How will Sevilla respond?

17' Navas is causing quite a few problems down the right wing, he has got a couple of good crosses into the box now and looks dangerous, which is forcing Reus to get back and defend.

15' Sevilla seem pretty content to sit back and allow the visitors to have the ball and just soak up the pressure, they look very comfortable.

13' Dortmund are keeping the ball well in the middle of the pitch, but they are struggling to get anywhere in the final third and the likes of Haaland and Sancho haven't been able to test the Sevilla defence so far.

11' Sevilla and Dortmund’s only previous meeting in European competition came in the 2010/11 Europa League group stages. The side from Spain won 1-0 in Dortmund before a 2-2 draw at the Sanchez-Pizjuan.

9' A disappointing start for Dortmund, they have struggled to keep clean sheets and now face an uphill battle to get anything out of this first leg.

6' Can is lucky to get away with just a warning after he cynically pulls Suso down and stops him from sprinting into the final third. He perhaps should have been booked there.

5' The visitors seem to be trying to feed the ball over the top of the Sevilla defence for Haaland to sprint onto the end of. However, so far, they haven't been able to time their passes quite right.

3' Decent start by Dortmund, they are pushing forward quickly and trying to get an early goal here. Sancho tries to feed Haaland in behind, but the pass has slightly too much pace on it and Bounou comes and gathers.

1' We're under way!

The teams are out on the pitch and kick off is just a few minutes away, stay tuned for all the match action!

Meanwhile Dortmund have made three changes to their starting XI, from the side that drew 2-2 with Hoffenheim on Saturday, with Morey, Dahoud and Reus all coming into the starting line-up, as Delaney, Brandt and Reyna miss out.

Sevilla have made seven changes from the side that beat Huesca 1-0 at the weekend, with Vidal, Gomez, Rekik, Gudelj, Oliver, Munir and De Jong all dropping out of the team and they have been replaced by  Navas, Kounde, Escudero, Fernando, Jordan, Suso and En-Nesyri.

DORTMUND SUBS: Thomas Meunier, Youssoufa Moukoko, Giovanni Reyna, Steffen Tigges, Reiner, Felix Passlack, Luca Unbehaun, Stefan Drljaca, Julian Brandt, Ansgar Knauff, Nico Schulz.

DORTMUND (4-3-2-1): Marwin Hitz; Mateu Morey, Manuel Akanji, Mats Hummels, Raphael Guerreiro; Mahmoud Dahoud, Emre Can, Jude Bellingham; Marco Reus, Jadon Sancho; Erling Haaland.

SEVILLA SUBS: Oscar Rodriguez, Nemanja Gudelj, Tomas Vaclik, Alfonso Pastor, Aleix Vidal, Sergi Gomez, Oliver Torres, Luuk De Jong, Karim Rekik, Munir El Haddadi.

SEVILLA (4-3-3): Yassine Bounou; Jesus Navas, Jules Kounde, Diego Carlos, Sergio Escudero; Fernando, Joan Jordan, Ivan Rakitic; Suso, Alejandro Gomez; Youssef En-Nesyri.

Meanwhile Dortmund topped their group, ahead of Lazio, having won four, drawn one and lost one. However, they come into this game in sixth position in the Bundesliga and they’ve lost and drawn their last two games.

Sevilla finished runners-up in Group E, just one point behind Chelsea and they only suffered one defeat during that campaign which came against the group winners. The Spanish side are in fine form in LaLiga, having won their last five games, which has moved them up to fourth in the table, just one point behind Barcelona.

Hello and welcome to our LIVE match commentary of the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Sevilla and Borussia Dortmund.

Uzbekistan humiliate Equatorial Guinea in 2021 Turkish Women's Cup opener

A disappointing first half performance saw the Nzalang Nacional lose their first game at the tournament in Antalya

Equatorial Guinea started their 2021 Turkish Women's Cup campaign on a poor note after a 5-0 defeat to Uzbekistan on Wednesday.

The Nzalang Nacional were assembling for the first time since their Central Africa regional success in 2020 as they gear up for next year's African Women's Cup of Nations in Morocco.

On the part of the Central Asian side, Bakhrom Norsafarov's outfit are featuring for the second time in the invitational tournament in the build-up to the Asian Women's Cup in India next year.

At the Emir Sports Complex, Uzbekistan made a bright start to the contest, although they only found a breakthrough in the 21st minute through Sevinch forward Nilufar Kudratova's strike.

Two minutes later, the Asians piled more up pressure on the former African queens and Maftuna Shoyimova doubled the lead before Kudratova grabbed her brace in the 25th minute of the encounter.

Diyora Xabibullayeva netted the fourth four minutes later for Uzbekistan to compound the woes of the Central Africa champions.

After the break, Jean-Paul Mpila could not steer his side to a fightback as Norsafarov's side grabbed a fifth of the game in the 54th minute courtesy of Lianna Narbekova to seal the big win.

The result has left the West Africans bottom of the table and they will be hoping for better fortunes against CSKA Moscow in their next game on Saturday.

The Black Queens will afterwards take on Nigeria, the other African side at the competition, for the last day showdown on February 23.

Original author: Samuel Ahmadu

FutPost.com