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UEFA Champions League Group D wrap: Lacklustre City bow out
5 December 2012
Manchester City's underwhelming Champions League campaign ended with a lacklustre 1-0 defeat at Borussia Dortmund.
Julian Schieber's second-half finish from close range was enough to see off the visitors, with the German side enjoying the better of the scoring chances.
The result means Roberto Mancini's side finish bottom of Group D without a win, the first time a Premier League side has ever failed to win a group match.
It took until the 12th minute for the first shot on target as Oliver Kirch drove straight at Joe Hart from 20 yards.
The visitors eventually fashioned an opening of their own, as Edin Dzeko slid the ball across the six-yard box looking for Carlos Tevez, but Marcel Schmelzer was able to snuff out the danger.
Dortmund were on top and perhaps should have scored when, first, Marco Reus cut into the area and blasted a left-footed effort towards Hart’s near post, which the England international managed to tip on to the woodwork and behind.
City nearly went in front straight after the restart when Dzeko met Samir Nasri's cross, heading straight at the goalkeeper when he looked odds-on to score.
Perisic then, again, forced a save from Hart, meeting Kirch's cross with a rasping volley from the left-hand side of the area, which the City goalkeeper had to palm over the bar before being called into action by denying Kevin Grosskreutz with an excellent one-handed stop low at his near post.
Just after Aguero was introduced by Mancini, the deadlock was finally broken in the 57th minute as the hosts took a deserved lead. Substitute Jakub Blazczykowski burst down the right and slid an excellent cross into the path of Schieber, who arrived at the far post to poke the ball into the net.
City switched to a back three with the introduction of Mario Balotelli and Pablo Zabaleta, as Tevez forced a save from Weidenfeller.
Moritz Leitner then had a superb chance to make it two after the impressive Blazczykowski pulled back, but the midfielder could only steer his effort wide.
Substitute Robert Lewandowski then brought out the best in Hart after shooting from a tight angle, before Weidenfeller saved a left-footed Aguero strike at the other end.
Meanwhile, at the Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid thrashed Ajax 4-1.
Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 13th minute after some good work from Karim Benzema, before Jose Callejon doubled the hosts' lead at the half-hour mark.
Kaka then made it three after the break, only for Derk Boerrigter to peg one back after 60 minutes. However, Callejon restored Madrid's three-goal lead in the closing minutes.
UEFA Champions League Group E preview: Chelsea exit looms
4 December 2012
Chelsea's hopes of qualifying from the Champions League group stage hang by a thread as Juventus look to progress to the knockout rounds.
In what promises to be another dramatic night in Group E, title holders Chelsea head into their clash with Norsjaelland knowing their future in the competition depends on Juventus losing to group leaders Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday.
Chelsea's 3-0 loss to Juve in the last round ended up costing Roberto Di Matteo his job, despite him taking the club through to their Champions League triumph over Bayern Munich last May after Andre Villas-Boas was sacked.
And, Di Matteo's replacement, Rafael Benitez, already finds himself under some pressure. Unpopular with many Chelsea supporters due to his time at Liverpool, Benitez's stock has already taken more of a dive as a creditable 0-0 draw with Manchester City was followed by a 3-1 loss to West Ham last weekend.
If the Blues were to bow out of the Champions League on Wednesday, it is unlikely it would be Benitez's fault, although that may not save him from further scrutiny.
With seven points to their name and a weaker head-to-head record against the Italian champions, Chelsea can advance to the next stage only if they defeat Nordsjaelland and Juve (nine points) lose to Shakhtar (10).
Chelsea's bid to do that would have been greatly helped by the leadership of John Terry and Frank Lampard, but while the pair will reportedly train this week, Benitez looks likely to take a cautious approach with their return from knee and calf injuries respectively.
Juventus, meanwhile, head to Ukraine following a tougher than expected battle with derby rivals Torino on the weekend.
Although the final scoreline of 3-0 looks like an emphatic result for Juve, all three of those goals came in the second half as the Serie A giants struggled to break down their resilient opponents until Kamil Glik's dismissal gave Juventus an edge.
Up to that point in time, Juve looked like a side with bigger things on their mind as they went through the motions somewhat against Torino, especially as the club have generally opted to play a similar line-up in Serie A as they do in Europe.
But Juve will have to be far better in Wednesday's game as Shakhtar boast one of the more imposing home records in world football.
The Ukrainian side have not been beaten at the Donbass Arena since June 24 when Rubin Kazan edged them out 3-2 and have a 100 percent record at the venue in this season's edition of the Champions League.
UEFA Champions League Group F preview: Bayern favoured to win group
4 December 2012
German giants Bayern Munich are on track to finish top of Group F ahead of Valencia on Wednesday.
Last season's UEFA Champions League finalists are level on points with the La Liga club but their superior head-to-head record means they will advance from the group as winners with victory at home to BATE Borisov.
Bayern have only lost two of their past 15 league and cup fixtures, one of those defeats coming against BATE in October.
The Bundesliga leaders have been close to faultless this season as they look to end Borussia Dortmund's domination of German football and avenge their heartbreaking loss to Chelsea in May's Champions League decider.
Bayern's attacking displays this season have wowed the football world, with a whopping 51 goals scored in 20 Bundesliga and European games this season.
And while the likes of Mario Mandzukic (nine goals), Thomas Mueller (eight goals) and Toni Kroos (six goals) have caught the eye, it's Bayern's defence that deserves plenty of praise.
Philipp Lahm, Jerome Boateng, Dante and Holger Badstuber have formed Bundesliga's best defence, conceding just six goals, while shipping six in the Champions League.
Wednesday's opponents BATE got off to a flying start in Europe, beating Lille and Bayern in their opening two games but it has been slim pickings since, losing three on the bounce.
The nine-time Belarusian champions sit three points clear of Lille in Group F however they are still guaranteed European football in the New Year regardless of Wednesday's result because of their super head-to-head record against the Ligue 1 club.
Valencia have secured a place in the knockout phase but could still pip Bayern into top spot if results go their way.
The scenario is simple for Valencia they must beat Lille and hope Bayern fail to win in Belarus.
Assistant coach Voro takes temporary charge of first-team duties following the sacking of Mauricio Pellegrino after their hefty 5-2 defeat to Real Sociedad at the weekend.
And he will hope for another strong performance from leading marksman Roberto Soldado, who has 14 goals in his past 14 Champions League games.
Lille have already been eliminated and are facing their worst-ever performance in the Champions League but they will be buoyed by Valencia's away record in Europe which has resulted in just two wins in 11 games.
UEFA Champions League Group G preview: Celtic, Benfica vie for survival
4 December 2012
Celtic and Benfica will be aiming to keep their Champions League dreams alive in Wednesday's Group G fixtures.
Barcelona may have already qualified to the knockout rounds with 12 points from their five matches so far, but Benfica and Celtic, both on seven points, have the opportunity to join Tito Vilanova's men in the final 16.
Celtic looked to have given themselves every chance of advancing when they stunned Barcelona in a 2-1 victory on matchday four.
But the Scottish champions then let their opportunity slip through their fingers as they were beaten 2-1 by Benfica as Ezequiel Garay's 71st-minute goal ensured the Portuguese side headed into the final round of fixtures in second on the Group G table thanks to their superior record over Celtic.
Celtic appear to have the better chance of progressing, as they will be hosting Spartak Moscow in the final game, the Russian side having already been eliminated from the qualification race.
Spartak have just one win to their name in the competition, one that came over Benfica on matchday three, although they will take some heart from the fact Celtic have proved to be one of the more inconsistent sides going around this season.
Indeed, Neil Lennon's men could not defeat Second Division Arbroath in a 1-1 Scottish Cup draw over the weekend, although the manager obviously had one eye on the vital European fixture as he looks to make a possible nine changes for the Champions League game.
As a result, perhaps a better indication of Celtic's form heading into this encounter would be their 4-0 demolition of Hearts on Thursday, when their primary line-up produced a fine performance just two days before the Arbroath game.
Spartak, meanwhile, head into this match in some dreadful form, having been winless since November 12.
And, in their last two games, Spartak have conceded nine goals, crashing to a 5-1 loss to Dinamo Moscow on November 25 and most recently a 4-2 loss to Zenit St Petersburg last Saturday.
Although Celtic will be facing an out-of-form Spartak, the same cannot be said for Barcelona, who set a new record for the best start to a La Liga season last weekend through a 5-1 win over Athletic Bilbao.
Under Vilanova's care, unbeaten Barca have won 13 of their 14 clashes this season to beat the previous mark set by Real Madrid in 1991-92.
However, whether Barcelona will go for the jugular against Benfica remains to be seen, especially as the Catalan club have already qualified for the next stage.
Benfica also head into the game at the Camp Nou with some form behind them, however, having won 10 of their last 11 games to be second on the Liga Sagres table, behind Porto only by account of goal difference.
And if Benfica simply equal Celtic's performance on Wednesday, they will advance to the next stage due to their better head-to-head record.
UEFA Champions League Group H preview: Tight tussle for second
4 December 2012
Galatasaray must better or at least match CFR Cluj's result on Wednesday if they are to advance from Group H.
Manchester United are already through to the round of 16 as winners of the group but the runner-up position is yet to be decided.
Galatasaray and Cluj are locked on seven points each heading into matchday six but the Turkish side are in the box seat to progress.
Fatih Terim's troops boast a superior head-to-head record to Cluj, meaning they will advance to the knockout phase as long as they mach Cluj's performance in the final round of group fixtures.
Galatasaray, who edged United last time out, face bottom side Braga on the back of a three-game unbeaten run.
After losing their opening two games against United and Braga, the 1988/89 Champions League finalists have picked up seven points from a possible nine.
Turkish international Burak Yilmaz has been instrumental in that run, scoring five goals to sit top of the charts alongside Alan (Braga), Lionel Messi (Barcelona) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid).
Galatasaray have enjoyed some good results away from home in Europe, losing just two of their last 11 road trips, while Braga have lost three home games in succession.
United are already assured a place in the last 16 as winners of Group H but could still have a say as to who joins them in the next round.
The three-time winners of the tournament host a determined Cluj side aiming to better Galatasaray's result.
If Wednesday's results do not go their way, the Romanian outfit are guaranteed a place in the Europa League.
Sir Alex Ferguson is expected to rest a number of key players including Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney with a blockbuster Manchester Derby looming at the weekend.
However, United will want to maintain their impressive home record in the Champions League which has seem them lose just one of their last 37 games.
'Everything depends on this match' - Hazard desperate for Chelsea Champions League progress
The outlook is bleak for the Blues as they look to avoid being eliminated as holders at the group stage as they must rely on Juventus' result against Shakhtar Donetsk to qualify
Menez: Paris Saint-Germain want to go as far as possible in Champions League
The versatile attacker has stressed that the Ligue 1 representatives are full of ambition, and was pleased with their display against Porto on Tuesday
Leitner: Facing Barcelona would be a dream
The Germany Under-21 starlet is relishing the prospect of potentially taking on the Catalans later in the competition as he's keen to measure himself against the best
Messi can cope with the pressure, insists Vilanova
The Blaugrana coach has insisted that the Argentina international is raring to go ahead of the match versus Benfica as he has set his sights on Gerd Muller's record
Benzema: Mourinho should stay at Madrid
The Frenchman feels that it would benefit the club, players and coach if the Portuguese stayed put, and hopes to be paired with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League
Buffon: Juventus should be feared
The experienced goalkeeper believes that the Bianconeri have already proven their worth in Europe, and has insisted they are ready for the decisive game against Shakhtar Donetsk
Misfiring but 'amazing' in defence - Chelsea boss Benitez backs Torres
The interim coach believes that, despite his main objective being to score goals, the £50 million striker is contributing to the side with more than just attacking threat
Bayern & Dortmund among Champions League favourites, says Witeczek
The ex-Roten midfielder believes that Jupp Heynckes' side will be competing for Europe's top title come May, but admits their loss in the final last season could still affect them
Callejon proves again why he's one of football's most underrated stars
The former Espanyol forward impressed, scoring twice as Real Madrid thrashed Ajax 4-1 in the Champions League. On this form, he deserves more playing time, and a chance with Spain
Modric: Real Madrid favourites to win Champions League
The former Spurs star believes that the Spanish giants are the team to beat in European club football's elite competition, and is satisfied with his progress at the Blancos
Holtby: Schalke want Real Madrid in next round
The Germany international has set his sights on a meeting with the Liga champions, and has stressed they will have to beat every opponent in order to win the competition
Emanuelson: Tough task awaits AC Milan in last 16
The Netherlands international is eagerly anticipating the draw for the next round, but has stressed that there are no easy opponents lefts at this stage of the competition
The important thing is Malaga got the point, says Duda
The Portuguese winger admits that their performance was worthy of the victory, but conceded that gaining a draw from the fixture was sufficient reward
Allegri: AC Milan didn't deserve to lose but we can do better
The Rossoneri coach says his team were unlucky to get beat in their final Champions League group stage match against Zenit St Petersburg, but that improvement is necessary
Ancelotti: PSG showed character and courage
The Italian coach was pleased with the way his team performed after they sealed their place in the Champions League last 16 as group winners with a 2-1 victory over Porto
'Nine players didn't play at their level' - De Boer
The Ajax coach was disappointed with his player's first-half display at the Bernabeu, but said he could not fault their efforts this term after they secured third place in Group D
Hulk admits he could leave Zenit in January
The summer arrival from Porto reveals his relationship with coach Luciano Spalletti is strained and may be forced to depart the Russian champions if the situation does not improve
Wenger encouraged by Arsenal display despite four-match winless run
The Gunners manager insisted that there were positives to take out of his side's 2-1 loss to Olympiakos and felt the corner that led to the hosts' equaliser was incorrectly given
Ballon d'Or winner has already been decided, argues Mourinho
The Portuguese believes Lionel Messi has been given deliberate publicity to be crowned the recipient of the honour, while he laughed off speculation surrounding his future
Ambrosini: Zenit defeat did not do AC Milan justice
An under-strength Rossoneri crashed at home to the Russians, meaning they must settle for second place in Group C, but the midfielder insists there is more to come from his side
Metzelder: Real Madrid would be fantastic opponents in the next stage
The Schalke star was happy his side qualified as leaders of Group B, and says he would love to face his former club in the first round of the knockout stages
We'll give our body and soul for a win, says Galatasaray's Terim
The Turkish coach has vowed that his side will attempt to win their remaining group game at all costs, but admits that it will be a difficult ask against a determined home side
Klopp: Manchester City capable of better
The English champions succumbed to a 1-0 loss to their German equivalents, and the former Mainz boss feels his side did well to limit their opponents' play
Hart: Manchester City let themselves down in Champions League
The goalkeeper has lamented the Premier League champions' performances in Europe this season after defeat at Dortmund saw them crash out of Continental competition for the season
Heynckes: Bayern Munich underestimated BATE Borisov in Belarus
Die Roten coach will hope to beat the Belarusian champions to secure top spot in Group F, but will be wary after his side suffered a shock defeat to their opponents on matchday two
Braga have point to prove against Galatasaray, says Peseiro
The Portuguese have already been eliminated from the competition, but their coach insists that a win is on the club's agenda to justify their place in Europe's premier tournament
Messi & Barca out of this world, says Jorge Jesus
The Benfica trainer has heaped praise on the Ballon d'Or winner and Barca prior to their Champions League clash on Wednesday, but hopes his side can spring a surprise against them
Terry & Lampard to miss Chelsea clash with Nordsjaelland
The duo are set to miss the Blues' final Champions League group game as manager Rafa Benitez states that the pair are not ready to make their comeback from injury just yet
Weakened Barcelona side can still beat Benfica, says Vilanova
The 44-year-old has chosen to rest a number of senior players after securing their qualification for the last 16, but he believes his team can still beat the Portuguese side
Dec 4, 2012 2:55:00 PM
By Tom Maston
Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova has refuted claims that his side will not be competitive when they face Benfica on Wednesday, despite a number of senior players sitting out the encounter.
The trainer has chosen to rest the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas for the Group G encounter but he claimed that his side will still be trying to win and deny the Portuguese side a chance of reaching the knockout stages.
"We will present a competitive team. It's an important game because we are still representing the club," he told a press conference.
"It's the Champions League and there are teams that are still playing for qualification.
"It's a Champions League match and we will try to make the best of it. A Champions League match is always important."
David Villa completed his return from injury with his first full 90 minutes for the first team against Alaves on Wednesday, but Vilanova refused to say if the striker would get another full match under his belt against Jorge Jesus' side.
"He looks good. He only played a full match once and he is still not quite fully fit. During the minutes that he has played he has done well and has scored goals.
"During the year there many matches and he is a very important player for us."
Alessio: If Juventus are predictable, so are Barcelona
The Bianconeri assistant coach dismisses claims his team cannot change their line-up or formation, and says the side must play to win against Shakhtar Donetsk
Dec 4, 2012 6:15:00 PM
By Tom Maston
Juventus assistant coach Angelo Alessio has responded to Shakhtar Donetsk trainer Mircea Lucescu's claims that The Old Lady are predictable by saying that the Turin outfit's regular set-up is similar to Barcelona's approach.
Lucescu claimed that Antonio Conte's team were easy to play against as they rarely change their formation or starting line-up, but Alessio feels that his players should concentrate on booking their place in the Champions League knockout stages and not react to comments from the opposition.
"He can say we’re predictable, but we create many scoring opportunities. In that case let’s call Barcelona predictable – the same 11 play pretty much all the time and everyone knows the style of football they propose, yet they are the best team of recent years," Alessio told a press conference.
"Lucescu’s words remain just that: words. We are extremely concentrated on this match and absolutely want to reach the next round of the Champions League."
Juventus head into the match in Ukraine knowing that a draw will guarantee both them and Shakhtar a place in the last 16 of the competition, but Alessio wants the team to play an attacking style and try to win the match.
"We’ll be facing the toughest side in the group, as they are the leaders, but we have improved and can get a result.
“We cannot play for a draw and count on being able to get two results. We’ve got to take the game to Shakhtar and play the way we know how. We must fight for every single ball."
Wednesday's match marks the end of Alessio's time as Conte's representative on the touchline, with the head coach set to make his return to the dugout against Palermo on Sunday, but the 47-year-old says the players must focus on their next match before looking forward to their trainer's return.
"We are very happy at Antonio’s impending return, but right now we are all exclusively focused on this match."
He added: "Giorgio Chiellini trained yesterday and is regularly at our disposal. Antonio will then decide the starting 11 tomorrow."
We'll give our body and soul for a win, says Galatasaray's Terim
The Turkish coach has vowed that his side will attempt to win their remaining group game at all costs, but admits that it will be a difficult ask against a determined home side
Dec 4, 2012 11:10:00 PM
By Simon Harrison
Galatasaray coach Fatih Terim has urged his team to give everything in order to emerge victorious from their Champions League group clash with Braga.
The Turkish giants are poised to move into the knockout stages of the competition, as they sit on seven points with CFR Cluj, and their trainer is not prepared for them to underperform during a vital game.
"Any of the teams could have gone through in this group," Terim told reporters.
"Braga's team were one of the strongest in the group, but football is like that and you can't always get results. We know they have quality and strength, so it will be a good game.
"We want to get through and therefore our body and soul will be on the pitch. We don't care about other results, we just want to get a good result here."
Despite urging his team to focus on a win, Terim did concede that playing Braga in Portugal would be a difficult task.
He added: "For me, the best option is to get through - that's the important thing, whatever the result.
"Tomorrow's [Wednesday] match will be much more difficult than in Istanbul, because Braga are playing at home so they have no pressure and they're playing for pride."
We wanted Europa League qualification, insists Mancini after Borussia Dortmund defeat
The Manchester City boss cut an apologetic figure as he lamented his side's failure to test the German side, while maintaining he wanted to remain in European competition
Dec 4, 2012 11:30:00 PM
By Husmukh Kerai
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has bemoaned his side’s inability to qualify for the Europa League following Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
A second-half strike from Julian Schieber was enough to see off the Premier League champions, who finished bottom of Group D without a win and a total of just three points from six games.
Mancini insisted that he told his team to go out and win the game and ensure they remain in European competition in the New Year.
"Yeah, we wanted this [to qualify for the Europa League] but we have to score." Mancini told Sky Sports.
"Tonight we tried but we are missing more players. We had chances but in this moment we can't score, if you don't score it's difficult to win."
Elimination from Europe could be a blessing in disguise with City currently three points behind rivals Manchester United as they attempt to defend their Premier League title but, when put to Mancini, the Italian was keen to focus on an underwhelming Champions League campaign.
He added: "In this moment we cannot think about this, we should think that we are not in the Europa League and for this we should be disappointed.
"Clearly, this can help us for the Premier League because we don't play in the Europa League but we want to play in it, it was our target tonight."
Mancini highlighted the improvement of opponents Borussia Dortmund in this season’s competition from last year and drew comparison with his own side, adding that City side can make a fresh impression next term.
"Champions League is really difficult and strange", he added.
"Borussia Dortmund went out of the group last year in fourth position like us, and this season they can win the competition."
Cartoon of the Day: Manchester City's European hopes go up in smoke again
Dec 5, 2012 12:00:00 PM
Having already crashed out of the Champions League, Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund capped another dismal campaign for Manchester City in Europe.
The loss at Signal Iduna Park resulted in Roberto Mancini's side finishing bottom of Group D, and in turn saw them miss out on the consolation prize of Europa League football.
Now, with only domestic matters to concern them for the remainder of the season, the Premier League champions can forget about a continental adventure for another year...
Rummenigge: Europe fears German teams
The 57-year-old has voiced his delight with the success of the Bundesliga in the Champions League, and believes no club will want to face the nation's top sides
Deco: Porto can eliminate Barcelona from the Champions League
The ex-Blaugrana midfielder feels the Portuguese side have what it takes to knock his old club out of Europe, although the teams are yet to find out who they will face
Fabregas: I'd be thrilled if Barcelona draw Arsenal in last 16 of Champions League
The Blaugrana midfielder is hoping to be paired with his former employers while he feels that despite his minor injury, Lionel Messi will still try and break Gerd Muller's record
Mancini not feeling the pressure despite Champions League shortcomings
The Manchester City manager declares that defending the club's Premier League crown is their main priority this season after being eliminated from European competition
Sammer: German dominance in group stage no reason for euphoria
The sporting director believes that the Bundesliga sides' success so far in Europe's elite tournament should not hyped up and that the clubs should keep their feet on the ground
Pellegrini: I do not care who Malaga draw in the Champions League
The Chilean coach believes that his team have a formidable task on their hands no matter who their opponents in the next stage of Europe's elite tournament are going to be
Ajax's Fischer: Real Madrid's performance left me stunned
The young forward admits that the attacking display from Los Blancos in the fiery clash in Europe's elite tournament was too much for Frank de Boer's men to handle
Materazzi: People will value Mourinho once he's gone
The Italian feels that the controversial coach does not get the appreciation he deserves, and has revealed the Portuguese has set his sights on winning the Champions League again
Chiellini: Juventus always believed in qualification
The Italian has made it clear that the Bianconeri were always optimistic about their chances of making it to the round of 16, despite threat Chelsea and Shakhtar Donetsk posed
Puyol: I want AC Milan as our next opponents
The veteran defender would like to take on the Rossoneri in the knock-out stages, but has urged his team-mates to turn their focus to La Liga again with the last 16 a long way off
Juventus can compete with anyone, says Marotta
The Old Lady director has little doubt about his side's potential to go far in Europe following their performances in the group stages
Celtic qualification cements iconic status for inspirational Lennon
The Hoops' manager has been through significant ups and downs since taking over at Parkhead but progression to the Champions League knock-out stages ranks as his finest hour
Plenty more to come from Galatasaray, warns Terim
The Turkish champions turned their fortunes around to progress in the Champions League, and their boss is anticipating further improvement in the knockout stages
Heynckes proud of Bayern Munich players
The Bavarians eased to victory in their final Champions League group stage match and their coach was enthused by the manner in which they disposed of their opponents
Chelsea players must take blame for Champions League exit, admits Cech
The 30-year-old insisted it is the squad's fault for failing to retain their European title after being knocked out at the group stages, regardless of which manager was in charge
Benitez focuses on positives following Chelsea's Champions League elimination
Despite the Blues becoming the first holders to not reach the knockout stage, the interim boss was delighted with the convincing manner by which his team beat Nordsjaelland
Bonucci: I want Real Madrid next
The Juventus defender was in a buoyant mood after his side's victory over the Ukrainian champions, claiming that Los Blancos would be the perfect test of their mettle
Lennon hails Celtic's 'monumental' Champions League progression
The Hoops boss credited club legends Gordon Strachan and Martin O'Neill after claiming the SPL champions' highest-ever group stage points total to secure a last-16 berth
Nothing is impossible for Juventus now
The Bianconeri completed a wonderful turnaround with a display of great control and concentration to earn a 1-0 win against Shakhtar and claim top spot in Champions League Group E
Saviola anticipating tough Porto clash
The Malaga striker is familiar with the Dragoes, having spent three years with Benfica, and is aware that a hefty task awaits his side in the last 16 of the Champions League
Zubizarreta: A Milan-Barca tie always sounds good
The Blaugrana director of football is looking forward to his side's clash with the Italian giants, but warns that they will prove tough opponents when the two meet in February
Grosskreutz: Shakhtar won't be pleased that they've drawn Dortmund
The Germany midfielder says his side will face tough opponents in the Ukrainian giants, but is confident his team can reach the quarter-finals if they play at their best
Arsenal striker Podolski: We have a chance against Bayern Munich
The German international is confident that the Gunners can advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League when they face one of his former clubs in the first knockout round
Efe Ambrose: Celtic fear no foe but respect Juventus
Ahead of their clash with the Bianconeri, the Nigeria defender has said the Bhoys are not afraid of the Italian giants and with a little bit of luck could spring a surprise result
Galatasaray's Hamit wary of Schalke threat
The 30-year-old midfielder says he is looking forward to playing against his former club, and has warned his team-mates that they have a tough tie ahead of them
Puyol: Milan-Barcelona will be a fantastic tie
The Blaugrana captain has spoken of his excitement after his side were yet again drawn to face the Italian giants in the Champions League, this time in the round of 16
Thon: Bayern will not have any problems against Arsenal
The retired Schalke and Munich star was optimistic about die Roten and Borussia Dortmund's chances of progressing from the round of 16 against Arsenal and Shakhtar Donetsk
Club secretary John Alexander hails Manchester United vs Real Madrid as 'stand out tie'
The Red Devils' club secretary has heralded the clash between the Premier League leaders and the reigning Spanish champions as the match “everybody wanted to see”
'Ronaldo will get a great reception' - Macari welcomes Cristiano's Champions League return to Manchester United
The midfielder believes the Portuguese superstar will be met with a positive reaction when he faces his former club and their supporters, and has tipped the Red Devils for success
Van Nistelrooy torn between Manchester United & Real Madrid after Champions League draw
The retired 36-year-old Netherlands forward played for both clubs during the peak of his club career between 2001-10 and found it difficult to pick a favourite for the tie
Lahm: Bayern Munich have what it takes to beat Arsenal
The Germany international believes the Bavarians can make it to the next stage, while Karl-Heinz Rummenigge also feels FCB are the favourites
Real Madrid will fear Van Persie & Rooney, warns former Manchester United star McIlroy
The English and Spanish champions have been drawn together in the last 16 of the Champions League, and the ex-Old Trafford man says La Liga champions have a "glass jaw" in defence
Butragueno: Manchester United one of the most prestigious clubs in the world
The former Spain international has nothing but respect for the English giants, but is optimistic about his side's chances of reaching the quarter-finals
Ronaldo's Old Trafford return tops the bill as Uefa get dream draw
The Portuguese is back at the ground where he made his name as a footballer on the international stage, starring in the standout fixture of an intriguing last-16 line-up
'I would rather avoid Barcelona' - Arsenal boss Wenger on Champions League draw
The Frenchman revealed at his press conference how the current Spanish leaders would be his least-desired opposition but still feels his side would have a chance of winning
Moller: A German team can win the Champions League
The former Borussia Dortmund and Schalke star is optimistic about the Bundesliga side's chances of lifting the famous trophy this season
Ibrahimovic: I do not have to win the Champions League to have had an exceptional career
The powerful attacker is very pleased with how he has progressed over the years, and feels he has the leadership skills to show younger players the way to success
Mourinho can lead Madrid to Champions League glory, says Di Stefano
The 86-year-old is hopeful that the former Inter boss can guide the Blancos to success in Europe, and remains unperturbed by their domestic struggles
'Dortmund are not Champions League favourites' - Hummels
The Schwarzgelben defender has rejected claims from the likes of Jose Mourinho that his side are the team to beat in Europe this term, and insists the Bundesliga comes first
'Nobody wants to stop now' - Kayal eyeing further Champions League shocks with Celtic
The Hoops qualified for the last 16, after a stunning group stage that saw them beat La Liga giants Barcelona, and the Israel international is aiming for more European success
Cazorla dreaming of Arsenal-Malaga Champions League final despite Capital One Cup disaster
The Gunners' playmaker would love to draw the Andalusian club in the knock-out stages, though he conceded it would be a tough match against Manuel Pellegrini's unbeaten side
Casillas: I'd finish 25 points behind Barcelona in La Liga to win the Champions League
The Real Madrid stopper admitted he would concede the title to their main rivals if it meant winning in Europe, though assistant coach Aitor Karanka does not share that view
Chiellini targeting Champions League & Scudetto this season
The Italy international believes that a double for the Bianconeri is a realistic aim this season, having knocked out reigning European champions Chelsea earlier this month
Barzagli: Juve not the best team in Champions League but anything can happen
The experienced defender had admitted that the Bianconeri are not the sky-high favourites to win the competition, but is hopeful of causing an upset with some luck
'It's incredible that we are playing Barcelona for the sixth time' - Galliani
The AC Milan vice-president insists that his side will do their best to progress while revealing he has received offers for Alexandre Pato and Robinho
Dec 20, 2012 8:00:00 PM
By Frank Tigani
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani was left shocked by the Champions League last 16 draw that saw the Italian outfit paired with Barcelona for the fifth time in six seasons.
Then under Pep Guardiola, the Blaugrana recorded two wins and two draws against the Rossoneri, but, the club's CEO is taking heart from his side's performances across the four ties.
"Do you know that we will being playing Barcelona for the sixth time in just over a year?" he was quoted saying the Corriere dello Sport.
"It's really incredible. They were assigned to us because the other teams could not face each other, so we were the default option. Barcelona play the best football in the world with the best players in the world.
"Still, we will try and eliminate them, and we will take much from our displays last time round against them where we put on a good show."
Galliani went on to state that only one of Robinho and Alexandre Pato would be allowed to leave the club in January, but refused to be drawn on rumours linking Didier Drogba with a move to San Siro.
"We won’t sign any more strikers, even if one of the current roster leaves. If both of them go, then we’ll see what we will do," he continued.
“We haven’t decided yet on Robinho and Pato, as it’s still only December. The Brazilian transfer session ends on April 15.
“Was the offer for Pato satisfying? We’ll see. Robinho wants to go back to Brazil because his family is there and it’s a personal choice. We received an offer from Santos which we rejected, but there has not been a second proposal yet.
“Brazilian football has grown on an economic level, as with sponsorship deals and pay-per-view television the clubs can afford more than they could in the past. We will speak with Pato and Robinho to decide what to do.
“For now Pato and Robinho are Milan players. Our books are balanced and we are even set to make a profit. Any potential Pato and Binho sales would go into the 2013 budget.
“I won’t comment on the Drogba rumours. We have never considered [Pablo] Armero. [Clarence] Seedorf will continue playing in Brazil.”
'I'll need to order some good wine' - Sir Alex Ferguson looking forward to Mourinho reunion
The Manchester United manager was happy after seeing his side drawn against the record all-time European Cup winners, suggesting that he will be pleased to face some familiar faces
Dec 20, 2012 1:25:00 PM
By Al-Hain Cole
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is looking forward to a reunion with Jose Mourinho after being drawn with Real Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League.
Former player Cristiano Ronaldo will also be making the trip to Old Trafford for the first time since leaving in a world-record £80m move in 2009, when the second leg comes around on March 5.
"[It will be a] great opportunity for our fans to see Cristiano again and also for me to meet up with Jose again - I'll need to order some good wine," Sir Alex joked upon seeing his side paired with the record nine-times Champions League winners.
This outlook was far more positive than the Scot's previous attitude towards Los Blancos, whose pursuit of Cristiano Ronaldo once prompted him to say: "Barcelona, have far better morals than Real Madrid will ever have."
The Red Devils will be hoping to do better than their Manchester rivals, who took just one point from the two Group D clashes against Mourinho's men before crashing out of the competition at the first hurdle.
The two clubs have not faced each other since the quarter-finals in 2004, when a magnificent Ronaldo hat-trick in the second leg at Old Trafford inspired the Spaniards to a 6-5 aggregate victory.
Ancelotti: PSG can beat Valencia if we play our best football
The Italian coach believes his side have what it takes to reach the quarter-finals if they can be at their strongest against Los Che, and was glad to have avoided Real Madrid
Dec 20, 2012 2:40:00 PM
By John-Paul Tooth
Paris Saint-Germain trainer Carlo Ancelotti says his team can progress from the last 16 of the Champions League if they play their best football against Valencia.
The former AC Milan and Juventus coach also added that he was glad to have avoided Spanish champions Real Madrid in the draw.
"The most dangerous team was Real," the 53-year-old told reporters.
"Valencia have some problems, although they have a good history with the competition. But Valencia seems less dangerous than Real and it is normal. But we have to play the two games.
"The objective is to get to the quarter-finals. I won’t say it’s a good draw, it’s a Champions league draw. We can win if we play our best football," he added.
Valencia qualified second in Group F, level on points with Bayern Munich, whilst PSG beat Porto to the summit of Group A with a 2-1 win over the Portuguese champions in their final match of the group stage.
