UEFA Champions League 2012/2013

[Weidenfeller]

UEFA Champions League Group E wrap: Mata brace fires Chelsea

3 October 2012

Juan Mata scored a double as Chelsea beat FC Nordsjaelland 4-0 in Group E of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.

The reigning champions of Europe's premier club competition finished convincing winners in Denmark but the scoreline flattered them as they scored three goals in the final 11 minutes.

Nordsjaelland enjoyed good spells in the game and could have easily scored early in the second half, but were made to pay for their profligacy as Mata was joined by David Luiz and Ramires on the scoresheet.

Chelsea should have scored immediately, only for Victor Moses' effort from two yards to be headed against the post by Jores Okore.

Oscar and Frank Lampard both fired shots on goal that failed to trouble Nordsjaelland goalkeeper Jesper Hansen, before Ashley Cole was called on to save the day at the other end of the pitch.

The defender tracked back well, putting in a last-ditch lunge to deny Kasper Lorentzen from giving the hosts the lead.

Chelsea took the lead on 33 minutes when Enoch Adu was caught in possession by Fernando Torres, with Lampard also involved before Mata, who charged down the right, fired home to give Roberto Di Matteo's side the lead.

Chelsea had the ball in the back of the net within a minute of the second half but Oscar's effort was ruled out for offside and Nordsjaelland made the most of the reprieve and put the pressure on the English Premier League outfit.

Mikkel Beckmann had two good chances before Dutchman Joshua John was denied by a combination of Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech and the woodwork.

John cut inside from the left, skipped past David Luiz and hit a fierce shot towards the top corner, only to see Cech tip the effort onto the bar and away to safety.

Chelsea's second goal of the match killed off the contest, with Luiz firing a superb free-kick past Hansen from 25 yards on 79 minutes.

Mata coolly slotted his second just moments later before Ramires capped off the win, tapping in a fourth after neat build-up play from Torres and Oscar in the dying stages.

In the other Group E fixture, Juventus drew 1-1 with Shakhtar Donetsk in Turin.

Brazilian Alex Teixeira gave the visitors from Ukraine the lead after just 23 minutes but Juventus quickly responded.

Leonardo Bonucci was the man who levelled proceedings, just two minutes after they went behind, as Juventus notched their second consecutive draw in the competition.

 

[Weidenfeller]

UEFA Champions League Group F wrap: Bayern humbled in Belarus

3 October 2012

Bayern Munich's nine-match winning streak came to an end in Minsk after a stunning 3-1 defeat to BATE Borisov.

The Bavarians dominated the match for long periods but fell behind to an Alexander Pavlov strike, before Vitali Rodionov doubled the advantage with under quarter of an hour remaining.

Bayern were offered a glimmer of hope when Franck Ribery struck a reply in the first minute of injury-time but the match was killed off by Renan Bressan four minutes later.

The hosts created the first opening of the match, with Rodionov forcing a sharp save from Manuel Neuer, before Bayern mustered a chance through Toni Kroos, whose shot crashed against the woodwork.

BATE responded with a goal against the run of play as Aleksandr Volodko played the ball through for Pavlov who swept home on 28 minutes.

The visitors replied with vigour, as Thomas Mueller's header was acrobatically clawed behind by Andrey Gorbunov.

Bayern continued to press after the restart with Mario Manzukic coming close, but as the Germans poured bodies forward they left themselves susceptible to counterattacks.

BATE came close when Alexander Hleb played in Edgar Olekhnovich, who forced a superb save from Neuer with a ferocious right-footed strike from the edge of the area.

Former Barcelona man Hleb also played in Rodionov, who skewed his shot wide when he should have tested Neuer at the very least.

With 12 minutes remaining, any chances of a Bayern revival were dealt a critical blow as Hleb was the architect once more, playing in Rodionov, who played a slick one-two with Edgar Olekhnovich before slamming the ball past Neuer.

Bayern finally managed to pull one back in stoppage time when Ribery tucked home Xherdan Shaqiri's through ball, but Bressan tucked home a prompt reply to seal a famous victory for BATE.

In the group's other match, goals from Jonas in each half helped Valencia to a 2-0 victory over Lille at the Mestalla.

The Brazilian forward produced a clinical finish in the 37th minute after Lille had struggled to assert themselves on the game in the opening half.

Jonas' second came rather fortuitously, with his looping cross deflecting off a defender and into goal after 75 minutes.

Despite some late attacking intent from the visitors, Valencia held on for the three points to move to second in the group, which is topped by surprise packets BATE, with Bayern third and Lille without a point in last place.

 

[Weidenfeller]

UEFA Champions League Group G wrap: Barca juggernaut rolls on

3 October 2012

Alexis Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas were on target as Barcelona strolled to a 2-0 Champions League victory over Benfica in Lisbon.

A close-range finish in the opening stages from Alexis gave his side the perfect start, before Fabregas ensured Barca the three points when he blasted home 10 minutes into the second half.

A capacity crowd at Estadio da Luz enjoyed a gripping start to the group stage encounter, Benfica quickly calling Victor Valdes into action when the goalkeeper was forced to parry away Bruno Cesar's low effort.

Barca's response was devastating, Lionel Messi at the centre of slick passing moving before sliding the ball through to Sanchez to steer home the opener after six minutes.

The hosts looked to hit back immediately but the quick reflexes of Valdes denied Lima after the striker was played in by a fine pass from Nicolas Gaitan.

Barca could have extended their lead when Alexis' low cross was met by Messi only for Artur to produce a smart save to deny the Argentine.

With barely a minute on the clock following the restart, the visitors could have extended their advantage through Alexis, but the Chilean striker saw his effort rebound off the post.

A goal looked inevitable as the whistles of the home crowd welcomed Barcelona's masterful control of the ball, and it duly came through Fabregas.

A dizzying run from Messi opened up Benfica's defence and the playmaker picked up his second assist of the match as his deft through ball was blasted home by Fabregas.

Benfica continued their valiant attempt to get back into the game but the best chances were still falling to Barca, with Pedro coming closest to putting the finishing touches on the resounding win.

Also in Group G, Georgios Samaras scored in injury-time to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory for Celtic against Spartak Moscow at the Luzhniki Stadium.

Gary Hooper gave Neil Lennon's team the lead but two tap-ins from Emmanuel Emenike put the home side in front.

The game changed, however, when Juan Insaurralde was sent off for a challenge on Hooper and Dmitri Kombarov sent the ball into his own net to level the score after James Forrest been denied at the end of a sweeping attacking move.

And Samaras rose to head home Emilio Izaguirre's header as Celtic sealed a long overdue away victory in Europe's premier club competition.

Tuesday's results see Tito Vilanova's Barcelona top the group with a maximum six points, two clear of second-placed Celtic, while Benfica are third on one point and Spartak last following consecutive defeats.

 

[Weidenfeller]

UEFA Champions League Group H wrap: United toil for victory

3 October 2012

Manchester United's unconvincing Champions League form continued in Romania as they made hard work of a 2-1 win over CFR Cluj.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had spoken of the need for his side to start strongly, but again they fell behind early following a Pantelis Kapetanos strike before Robin van Persie struck twice to claim victory for the Premier League giants.

Despite all the attacking talent on show from the visitors, it was Cluj who struck first.

Modou Sougou was the architect, crossing for the unmarked Kapetanos to sweep the ball into the corner past a despairing David De Gea on 14 minutes.

United immediately went on the attack with Wayne Rooney turning and firing wide before Van Persie thumped a strike past the post after neat work by Tom Cleverley.

However, against a side who have kept just two clean sheets in their last 12 matches it was little surprise to see United finally score just shy of the half-hour mark when Van Persie pulled the Red Devils level.

A free-kick from the left was swung in by Rooney finding the Dutchman completely unmarked, and his looping header, which bounced fortuitously off his shoulder, dipped over goalkeeper Mario Felgueiras and into the back of the net.

The visitors continued to dominate the play but had to wait until just after the interval to finally take the lead and again it was Rooney who was the provider.

The England international, out wide on the right, floated a perfectly weighted ball through to Van Persie who grabbed his second of the match with a neat flick over the onrushing Felgueiras.

Yet it was not all one-way traffic as Cluj came back strongly with goalscorer Kapetanos firing high and wide when in space, before an alert De Gea denied Cadu.

United managed to reassert their grip and patiently kept possession to see the game out safely.

In the group's other match, Ruben Micael's close-range strike and a breakaway Alan goal at the death secured Sporting Braga's 2-0 victory over Galatasaray at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium.

The deadlock was broken by the Portuguese visitors after Ruben Amorim's shot was parried into the stride of Micael, who gleefully converted before the Galatasaray defence were able to react.

Alan completed the victory on the counter in the last minute of second-half injury-time as Braga moved to third place in the standings, equal on three points with second-placed Cluj.

United top the table having won their opening two games, while Galatasaray are yet to register a point.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Vilanova: Barcelona 'always having problems with central defenders'
The coach was left cursing his bad luck at his captain's injury, but nevertheless turned his attention to the Clasico with Real Madrid on Sunday

Pedro rues injury to Barcelona captain Puyol sustained during Benfica clash
The Spain international has spoken on how much the Blaugrana will miss their on-field leader's presence, although he and goal-scorer Cesc Fabregas are content with their win

Carrera: We have some really strong teams in our group
The stand-in boss reflected on the standard of the Bianconeri's opponents, while goal-hero Leonardo Bonucci was buoyed by Tuesday night's draw

Chelsea can retain the Champions League, says Lampard
The talisman feels that the team spirit at Stamford Bridge could be a key factor in the Blues' attempt to become the first club since 1990 to retain their European crown

Messi 'not worried about scoring' for Barcelona as long as they win
The Argentine superstar hailed the Blaugrana's victory over Benfica on Tuesday night, and lamented the injury suffered by captain Carles Puyol during the game

I've started well for Manchester United but I can still improve, insists Van Persie
The Netherlands international was happy to have struck both his side's goals against CFR Cluj on Tuesday night, and was full of praise for Wayne Rooney after his two assists

'It was about time!' - Di Matteo appreciates Chelsea's 'attractive' goals against FC Nordsjaelland
The Italian also believes Juan Mata's two-week break has benefitted the midfielder after a busy summer schedule, before pinpointing Petr Cech's second-half save as 'crucial'

Schmeichel recommends FC Nordsjælland's Jores Okore to Sir Alex Ferguson
The former Manchester United goalkeeper believes the 20-year-old Danish defender has a big future in the game and has mentioned him to his former boss at Old Trafford

Porto boss Pereira: We're not going to only worry about Ibrahimovic
The Portuguese coach looks to maintain calm ahead of his side's clash with PSG and states that thorough preparation is the key to any potential success

Manchester United need to stop giving silly goals away, says Rooney after Cluj win
The England international says his team found it tough going in Transylvania and felt the Red Devils could have scored more but was relieved to go home with all three points

Puyol suffers dislocated elbow
The Barcelona veteran has been dealt another injury blow during his side's clash with Benfica, sparking concerns he may miss the Clasico against Real Madrid

Mourinho: Sergio Ramos is a top professional but I get on better with my wife
Los Blancos coach admits that there can be difficulties in the relationships with his players, but remains focused on securing three points in their next Champions League game

Ajax are tougher to play against this season, claims Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho
The Portuguese trainer admits the side from Amsterdam won't be an easy opponent for Los Blancos and spoke on the recent absence of Mesut Ozil from the starting line-up

Sissoko: Two important games ahead for Paris Saint-Germain
The Mali international admits his relief after a successful return to first-team action following his injury and claims that concentration is required for PSG's next two fixtures

Ancelotti: We have three central defenders in very good condition - Thiago Silva, Sakho and Alex
The Italian trainer has played down talks of a rift between his squad after some recent comments in the press, and maintained Porto are strong even without the departed Hulk

Thiago Silva: Porto are favourites against PSG
The Brazil international is of the opinion that the Dragoes' home field advantage could play a crucial role when the two teams clash on Wednesday evening

Manchester City must improve in Champions League or risk failure, warns Mancini
The 47-year-old manager has stated the Premier League champions need to step up to the superior challenges of European competition if they are to be successful in the future

Allegri: AC Milan and Zenit will fight to qualify until the last matchday
The Rossoneri coach has praised his opposite number while also stating that he believes the battle for places in the round of 16 will go right down to the wire

Arsenal star Arteta faces late fitness test ahead of Olympiakos tie
Arsene Wenger could be without the Spaniard for the visit of the Greek side, while fellow midfielder Abou Diaby faces three weeks out after picking up a knock against Chelsea

Jordi Alba: Barcelona want Champions League glory again
The Spanish wing-back - who joined Camp Nou in the summer - is dreaming of European success this season & is eagerly anticipating Tuesday's match against Benfica in Lisbon

Pirlo: Juventus can go far in Champions League
The Italy international is eager to make an impact in European club football's elite competition, and has set his sights on making it to the final at Wembley

 

[Weidenfeller]

Jorge Jesus: We were up against the best team in the world, Barcelona

The Portuguese boss wasn't ashamed of his team's defeat at the hands of the Blaugrana, admitting that they had played against one of the footballing superpowers

Oct 2, 2012 11:20:00 PM

By Simon Harrison

Benfica coach Jorge Jesus has spoken positively of Barcelona, despite feeling aggrieved that his side went in behind at the break after matching the Catalan giants for the first half of their Champions League game on Tuesday night.

Goals from Alexis Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas were enough to secure the win for Barca, with little in the way of reply from the Portuguese side, whilst registering over 70 per cent of possession in the process.

"We were up against the best team in the world, a side that always has 70% or more of possession and that dominate all their opponents," admitted Jesus, speaking to reporters.

"They have only got the two best players in Europe! We played well in the first half and didn't deserve to be losing at half-time. Barca were very effective and that was the difference until they made it 2-0. After that, it was even more difficult."

Despite his admiration, Jesus did feel that his Benfica outfit could have done more to disrupt Barca's trademark passing game.

"We had to be more aggressive towards the man that was carrying the ball. That was the message I gave the players, but Barcelona don't lose possession.

"And then they have an extra-terrestrial [Lionel Messi] that does the rest. The other teams will play against Barcelona and also lose, so they will have the same margin of error as us," he reasoned.

 

[Weidenfeller]

BATE boss Goncharenko: It doesn't matter who scored

The Belarusian coach was in high spirits following his side's 3-1 win over Bayern Munich, which maintained their winning record in the competition, but warned against complacency

Oct 2, 2012 10:55:00 PM

By Simon Harrison

BATE Borisov boss Viktor Goncharenko could hardly contain his emotions after his team picked up another three points, this time from German giants Bayern Munich, to place them top of Champions League group F with six points from their opening two games.

Playing on the counterattack, the Belarusian champions picked off their opponents, scoring either side of a Franck Ribery goal to give them a well-deserved 3-1 victory.

"Simply fantastic!" enthused Goncharenko, speaking to reporters after the game.

"That's our team spirit. We worked hard to reach this point. I congratulate the fans and the team. I can't find words to express my gratitude to everyone.

"I don't want to single out players. It doesn't matter who scored and who gave the assists. The team is the one that won tonight."

Goncharenko also looked to instill some calm into the situation, urging his side not to get carried away as a result of their opening wins and unblemished record.

"We must have been born under a lucky star. Emotions are overwhelming, but I'm far from euphoric. We earned a grand victory, but you shouldn't speculate that now we have to win every match. It's the Champions League and we shouldn't forget that.

"It's a misconception that you can somehow inspire the team in the dressing room during half-time. What we did is we changed the tactical line-up a bit and I think we managed well there. Our team also knows how to play on the counterattack," he explained.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Neuer: Bayern Munich missed the chance to take the lead against BATE

The Germany international goalkeeper spoke of his disappointment following his side's defeat, whilst his coach heaped praise upon their spirited opponents

Oct 2, 2012 10:30:00 PM

By Simon Harrison

Bayern Munich have been left to rue what could have been after Toni Kroos missed a golden opportunity in the opening 15 minutes of their shock 3-1 loss to Belarussian side BATE Borisovon Tuesday night.

Goals from Aleksandr Pavlov, Vitali Rodionov and Renan Bressan were enough to secure three points, despite a consolation goal from Franck Ribery, which saw their side top Group F with maximum points.

"We missed the chance to take the lead and I think things would have been different if we had," conceded goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to reporters after the game.

"BATE defended well and hit us with counterattacks. Of course it is disappointing to lose 3-1, but you cannot complain about the team's efforts."

Bayern manager Jupp Heynckes was keen to compliment BATE's performance, after their resilience proved too much for the German giants to break down.

"I knew before the game that we were very much up against a good opponent," explained Heynckes, speaking to the club's official website.

"This is a very organised team, especially on the defensive, which they have proved again today.

"And above all, they have fought selflessly, as we have done. In a game like this you have to take the 1-0 lead. Thus, the opponent will come from being defensive, and you can counter.

"They have done very well. The best player was their goalkeeper, it can be seen that we made permanent pressure. Ultimately, we must recognise the victory of our opponent." he said.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United are strongest in attack

The 70-year-old manager was delighted with Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney as they combined to beat CFR Cluj 2-1, and suggested his side's power lies in the forward positions

Oct 2, 2012 10:28:00 PM

By Tom J Doyle

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has praised star strikers Wayne Rooney andRobin van Persie after the duo combined to lead his side to victory at CFR Cluj in theChampions League.

The 70-year-old saw his team narrowly overcome the tough Romanian outfit, with Pantelis Kapetanos putting the hosts ahead with a shock early goal.

However, United regained their composure, with Rooney assisting Van Persie twice to ensure United left Transylvania with all three points - and while the Red Devils may be suffering defensive and midfield injuries, the attack looks just fine to the manager.

"The strength of the squad is in the attacking positions," he told ITV.

"The pass and the finish [for the second goal], both were equally as good. It's a fantastic finish but what a nice ball Wayne has dropped - I thought it was too far, but Robin has done well to get to it."

Sir Alex refused to be be drawn in to whether this was the start of a prolific partnership for the pair, instead preferring to make a point of having a number of options available to him.

He added: "It's difficult to say [if this is a partnership]. I hope so. I think there's combinations between a few of our players."

The Scot also complemented Cluj on their attitude throughout the match, and insists that despite a nervy encounter, any victory away in Europe is always a good result.

"If you see the way they kept going until the end, they put a lot of telling crosses into the box which kept us under pressure, kept us on edge," Sir Alex said.

"I've got to be pleased with the possession, the concentration was really good tonight.

"Apart from the goal, we've defended really well tonight, David [de Gea] made a good save towards the end, so I've got to be pleased. Coming away from home in Europe is never easy, and they've a good home record here."

 

[Weidenfeller]

Exhausted Juventus struggling to cope with rigours of extra Champions League football

The Bianconeri failed to mark their first home game in the competition for three years with three points, and it was the lethargy of their star men which was most stark

Oct 3, 2012 6:30:00 AM

COMMENT
By Kris Voakes | Italian Football Writer

If the opening result at Chelsea brought with it several positives and the belief that Juventus could go far in the Champions League, Tuesday’s 1-1 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk in Turin provided a wake-up call for a club still feeling their way back into a European mindset.

The failure to pick up three points leaves them looking at their remaining Group E calendar with greater uncertainty. Where previously they may have seen a virtual free ride into second spot at least, they will now be trying to map out the quickest route to 11 points, which is the likely necessity for qualification for the last 16.

But another thing they will surely have to look at more closely is the use of first-teamers in the run-up to European fixtures. After discussing on Tuesday morning the need to look after Andrea Pirlo, it is unfortunate that we must admit the Italy international was again short of his best against Shakhtar, but the big problem was that he was not the only one.

Two weeks ago, Arturo Vidal turned his ankle over very sharply at Stamford Bridge, and Chelsea went on to score one goal while he was off receiving treatment and a second as he limped his way back into action. Within minutes he was halving the deficit practically on one leg, and it was only after extensive treatment – likely involving at least one pain-killing injection – that the Chilean was able to continue after the break.

Vidal | Below his best after playing 180 minutes in seven days before Shakhtar arrived

Since then, he has been used indiscriminately. After being left out against Chievo three days on, he was a starter for the trip to Fiorentina last Tuesday and was then asked to play 90 minutes at home to Roma before attempting to lead the Bianconeri to victory in Europe last night. For one player who is so crucial to the cause to be requested to play so much is pushing it, but to ask him to do so that soon after playing for an hour with a nasty injury, as well as expect a second key man alongside him to fulfil regular duties is plain careless.

The result was that when Juventus needed to turn to their go-to men, they were both short of the physical capacity to play at the level to which their club have become accustomed. For once, the Old Lady were out-run, out-passed and out-pressed across the middle for much of the first half, and their Champions League hopes took a huge hit as a result. While Fernandinho, Willian and Henrik Mkhitaryan deserve huge praise for their displays for Shakhtar, there must be an admission from all at Vinovo that had Juve protected their big-hitters better, they would likely have won the game.

Alex Texeira’s goal was more than deserved after the visitors had done all the running for the opening half-hour, and it was a massive positive for Juventus that Leonardo Bonucci’s powerful equaliser came so quickly afterwards, because they may otherwise have needed to really raise the tempo to get back into the game, and the well appeared to be running a little dry already at that early stage.

Sure, Juve could have won it on another night, with Alessandro Matri somehow wasting their best chance, while Sebastian Giovinco broke Shakhtar open at times after coming on, but the Ukrainains had three superb chances themselves late on, with Willian hitting the bar with a ferocious strike in stoppage time.

It is in some ways positive that the Bianconeri can reflect that if they get things right next time, they should have enough to beat Shakhtar, but it is a huge negative that they have not picked up the three points from this first meeting. And it all comes back to the team selection against Roma.

At half-time, Juventus were 3-0 ahead and the game was over as a contest. Yet still, there was no rest for the two most important players in their make-up, instead the pair were sent back out for a second period which was effectively a dead rubber. Worse still, when substitutions were made later on in the game, the little-used Matri and Paolo De Ceglie, and Claudio Marchisio – who had only played the final 15 minutes at Florence during the week, were those chosen to be rested by Massimo Carrera, yet Pirlo and Vidal were not.

[TABLE="width: 596"]
<tbody>[TR="bgcolor: black"]
[TD="align: center"]BALANCED SCHEDULE?
The workloads of those subbed v Roma compared to Pirlo & Vidal[/TD]
[/TR]
</tbody>[/TABLE]
[TABLE="width: 596"]
<tbody>[TR]
[TD="width: 20%, align: center"][/TD]
[TD="width: 16%, align: center"]Matri
[/TD]
[TD="width: 16%, align: center"]Marchisio
[/TD]
[TD="width: 16%, align: center"]De Ceglie[/TD]
[TD="width: 16%, align: center"]PIRLO
[/TD]
[TD="width: 16%, align: center"]VIDAL
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Sep 19 - Chelsea[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Sep 22 - CHIEVO[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]73[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]38[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Sep 25 - Fiorentina[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]16[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]68[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Sep 29 - ROMA[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]76[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]77[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]85
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]90[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]MINUTES PLAYED[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]78[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]256[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]85[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]248[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]308[/TD]
[/TR]
</tbody>[/TABLE]
While Marchisio’s form has improved since being given the confidence boost of a regular start in central midfield, he remains the third most important cog in the engine room. Pirlo is the artist, the pass-master, the man around which the attack is built. Vidal, meanwhile, is the legs and the lungs of the operation, dictating the flow of the defensive effort and turning it into meaningful attacks. Forget the back three’s varying abilities, his tackling statistics in 2011-12 were much of the reason why Juve had such a great defensive record as they went on to win the Scudetto.

So it is no surprise that when Vidal has not been at the top of his game physically, theBianconeri’s rearguard has appeared more exposed. Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini looked about as fallible as at any time since Antonio Conte took over as Shakhtar played balls in between the lines of defence and midfield with regularity. Stephan Lichtsteiner had some success going forward in the second half in particular, but his adventure was often used to the Italians’ detriment – and so too Kwadwo Asamoah on the left – as Mircea Lucescu’s men looked to get crosses in across the face of goal.

A tired Juventus is not the same as a fit one. With their defence more fallible and their midfield sitting deeper, the forward line is naturally dragged further away from goal, resulting in the jobs of the two strikers changing markedly from their usual role of converting possession into goals.

A fit Juve can press for 90 minutes, but they cannot be expected to do that twice a week every week. There needs to be greater consideration given to protecting the very players who they will rely upon to carry them towards glory in Europe. Because, if they continue to approach their demanding Champions League fixtures with such a mindless attitude, they may well be left not having to worry about the competition’s extra demands at all after Christmas.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Bayern stunned by high-flying BATE Borisov as Barca's victory comes at a cost

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 21:38 GMT, 2 October 2012 | UPDATED: 21:38 GMT, 2 October 2012

BATE Borisov claimed one of the biggest scalps in their history after stunning in-form Bayern Munich 3-1 at the Dinamo Stadion to open up a three-point lead at the top of Champions League Group F.Goals Alexander Pavlov and Vitaly Rodionov put the Belarusian champions in charge and although Bayern pulled one back in stoppage time through Franck Ribery, BATE added a third through Renan Bressan to seal their first ever home win in the competition.Goals either side of half-time by Alexis Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas helped Barcelona maintain their perfect start to the season after a 2-0 win at Benfica.

Party time: Bate Borisov celebrate beating Bayern Munich in the Champions League

However, the Catalans' night was soured towards the end when captain Carles Puyol was carried off on a stretcher with what appeared to be a broken arm after he landed awkwardly when attacking a corner, before Sergio Busquets was shown a straight red card two minutes from time.Also in Group G, Georgios Samaras' late header earned Celtic a 3-2 victory over 10-man Spartak Moscow in the Luzhniki Stadium.

Blow: Barcelona's Carles Puyol is taken off the pitch on a stretcher

The victory means unfancied BATE have now won both their group matches having previously downed Lille 3-1 away, while for Bayern the defeat ends their nine-match winning streak at the start of the season and leaves them on three points in Group F.Valencia got their Champions League campaign up and running as two goals from Jonas sealed a 2-0 win over Lille.

On their way: Jonas of Valencia scores against Lille in the Champions League

Chelsea top Group E after Juventus were surprisingly held to a 1-1 home draw against Shakhtar Donetsk. It took a thunderbolt from defender Leonardo Bonucci to guarantee a share of the spoils after Alex Teixeira had put the Ukrainians ahead on the counter-attack.In Group H, Galatasary were made to pay for poor finishing as a 27th-minute goal from Ruben Micael and a last-gasp effort from Alan gave Braga a smash-and-grab 2-0 win.
​

 

[Weidenfeller]

Porto boss Pereira: We're not going to only worry about Ibrahimovic

The Portuguese coach looks to maintain calm ahead of his side's clash with PSG and states that thorough preparation is the key to any potential success

Oct 2, 2012 9:40:00 PM

By Simon Harrison

Porto boss Vitor Pereira has warned his team against worrying about a single player, ahead of their Champions League group game against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been branded as PSG's dangerman this season, but Pereira is keen to concentrate on his French opponents as a whole, rather than as individual threats.

"We're not going to worry only about Ibrahimovic, because there are 11 players in a team and PSG have a great side, individually and collectively. But they'll be up against a great team too," announced the Porto coach, speaking to reporters.

"The last match in Zagreb left only good memories. The team showed great tacticial maturity and our identity was expressed throughout the match.

"We prepared for this game as we always do, passing information to the players as usual. We will play as we do all the time, controlling the ball."

Pereira was clear in his aims however, as the Portuguese giants target progress in the Champions League.

"This year we want a Champions League campaign that reflects our quality. Being favourites in this competition [as PSG are] doesn't mean much, as we saw last year, so we just have to take it match by match," he said.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Ancelotti: We have three central defenders in very good condition - Thiago Silva, Sakho and Alex

The Italian trainer has played down talks of a rift between his squad after some recent comments in the press, and maintained Porto are strong even without the departed Hulk

Oct 2, 2012 6:50:00 PM
By SW Lim

Paris Saint-Germain coach Carlo Ancelotti has dispelled rumours that there is trouble in the dressing room, after summer signing Thiago Silva reportedly revealed he preferred playing alongside Alex instead of Mamadou Sakho.

The former AC Milan defender made headlines when he claimed his compatriot possessed more international experience than les Parisiens' captain.

However, Thiago Silva has since clarified the intentions of those statements, insisting they were misread and apologised to Sakho in the process, and Ancelotti has now added his support.

"Thiago is a player and an intelligent man and I do not think he has said these things," the 53-year-old confirmed to gathered reporters at a press conference.

"All combinations [between Thiago Silva, Alex and Sakho] are good. We have three central defenders in very good condition.

"Alex is in good condition, and rested against Bastia. He can play three straight games."

The Italian continued by discouraging his men from underestimating their next Champions League opponents, Porto, as the Ligue 1 runners-up travel to the Dragao outfit seeking another victory.

"This is the team [Porto] that has the most experience in the group. It will be a good test in a stadium that is difficult to win at," Ancelotti continued.

"I do not think they have weakened with Hulk's departure.

"Tomorrow, the most important thing is to have the courage and personality to play football on a difficult context. We will have to defend well as Porto are strong in attack."

 

[Weidenfeller]

Ajax are tougher to play against this season, claims Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho

The Portuguese trainer admits the side from Amsterdam won't be an easy opponent for Los Blancos and spoke on the recent absence of Mesut Ozil from the starting line-up

Oct 2, 2012 7:45:00 PM

By Simon Harrison

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has conceded that his side's Champions League group game against Ajax will be a challenging encounter, due to the improvement of the Dutch giants.

The 49-year-old has spoken of his respect for the Amsterdam club and believes that his team face a far sterner test in comparison to the last time the two sides clashed.

"Ajax have different players than in previous years, but the philosophy is still the same," explained the Madrid boss, speaking at a press conference.

"They have improved as a team compared to the last couple of years and that's why I think we are going to have a more difficult match than last season.

"The team has trained for another year under Frank [De Boer]. The players which left have been replaced with very good players as well.

"Ajax played very well in Dortmund and with a bit more luck they could have won or drawn that game. That's why I think Ajax can compete with the teams in this tough group." he said.

The Madrid boss was also questioned as to the reasoning behind Mesut Ozil's recent absence from his starting line-up.

"Ozil could play more, but that's not because of his quality. Ozil doesn't always play because we have other players that are good.

"Modric for instance, but he has to work even harder. He [Modric] just began at Real so everything is new for him. He needs to get more experience as a Madrid player," he explained.

 

[Weidenfeller]

De Boer optimistic of Ajax's chances against Real Madrid

The former Netherlands international acknowledges that Los Blancos have more quality than his team, but remains hopeful that his players might secure a surprise victory

Oct 2, 2012 4:55:00 PM

By Charlie Scott

Frank de Boer believes Ajax have a chance of causing an upset when they face Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The 42-year-old, who had a four-year spell at Los Blancos arch-rivals Barcelona during his playing career, thinks that despite the odds being stacked against his side, anything is possible if the players believe in themselves.

"There's a big chance Real Madrid will win, because they've got more quality and experience, but if we play our own game, you never know," the former Barcelona player told reporters at a press conference.

"It is all about believing in yourself. Against Real Madrid last year, and Manchester United, we've shown that we are able to keep up,"

"We must be very careful with the ball when we have possession. We did well last weekend against FC Twente, as they were waiting for us to lose the ball.

"But Real Madrid are so effective on the counter. That was very clear last year at the Bernabeu when they beat us 3-0."

When asked whether he thought the Madrid coach Jose Mourinho would be side-tracked by the prospect of El Clasico on Sunday, de Boer said: "The Champions League is really important for them. Last year they won the title in La Liga, and now they're aiming for this title.

"I don't think Real and Mourinho are thinking about El Clasico. The press does, but that does not mean that they do too."

Ajax's Champions League Group D match against Real Madrid kicks off at 20:45 at the Amsterdam ArenA.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Beware of the Germans! Dzeko warns City not to blow Champions League chance

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 11:11 GMT, 2 October 2012 | UPDATED: 12:43 GMT, 2 October 2012


Edin Dzeko has warned Manchester City to underestimate Borussia Dortmund at their peril as they aim to dodge another early exit from the Champions League. After losing their opening group match away to Real Madrid last month, City are now determined to get off the mark on Wednesday night. But they face another tough test against the champions of Germany, who are aiming to beat City to one of the two automatic qualifying places in the group they share with Real and Ajax.

Training day: Edin Dzeko, Samir Nasri, Aleksander Kolarov and Mario Balotelli prepare for the visit of German champions Dortmund

On the ball: David Silva get to work at Carrington ahead of City's next Champions League clash

And Dzeko, who is in line for a starting spot after scoring the winner at Fulham on Saturday, has warned City against complacency when they meet at the Etihad Stadium. Dzeko, who spent three seasons at German side Wolfsburg before joining City, said: 'Dortmund have won the Bundesliga for the last two years and I know from experience that is very hard to do so there is no doubt they are a top team and one we’ll need to be at our best to beat.

'I remember playing against them on a number of occasions and I think I scored maybe three goals against them in perhaps seven games – I can only remember three, anyway! 'Dortmund have a made a similar start to us this season in that they have been scoring goals but conceding them as well. Having said that, they beat Monchengladbach 5-0 at the weekend so they are showing signs of coming into form.

'Like us, it is difficult when you are defending champions because everyone gives 150 per cent against you and want to beat you perhaps more than any other team. It’s something new for us this season, too, so there are definitely similarities between the two clubs.' Dzeko has impressed this season despite competition from fellow strikers Sergio Aguero, Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli.

And the Bosnian insists he has no plans to quit even though his opportunities are limited.He said: 'I’ve always wanted to stay at City and fight for my place and my motto has always been "never give up".
'I hope the City fans, who have always been fantastic towards me, have seen I can score some important goals for the team and that’s what I want to carry on doing.'

Welcome to Manchester: City manager Roberto Mancini braves the elements at training

Feeling the cold: Mancni wraps up as he watches his side go through their paces

Veteran defender Maicon has warned his team-mates they must make the most of home advantage. 'We can still win the group but you can’t think like that in the Uefa Champions League, we have to take each match as it comes and not think about first, second or third,' he said.

'All the group matches are very delicate, especially considering we didn’t get anything in Madrid – it makes the second match against Dortmund very difficult. 'You can’t afford to leave points behind in the Uefa Champions League in your home matches but Roberto Mancini knows this better than me and I’m sure we will go and play with the right spirit and the right attitude against Dortmund.'

City’s 2-1 win at Fulham suggests Roberto Mancini’s side are getting back to their best. 'The onus is on us to hit top gear as soon as possible because Manchester City is a top club,' Maicon admitted. 'We approach every game in the best possible way, mentally, tactically, technically – do our best and then we will see where we end up.

Hat's off: Yaya Toure pinches Carlos Tevez's hat but the Argentine, next to Sergio Aguero (R), later recovered it

Tough test: Mancini expects a difficult game against Dortmund at the Etihad Stadium
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[Weidenfeller]

Spalletti: Zenit can topple AC Milan

The former Roma coach has stressed the importance of Tuesday's European fixture, with both sides currently performing below expectations in their domestic leagues

Oct 2, 2012 2:50:00 PM

By Charlie Scott

Zenit St Petersburg trainer Luciano Spalletti has highlighted the magnitude of his team's Champions League clash with AC Milan, but spoke confidently of his team's ability to take the three points.

After leaving Roma in 2009 to coach the Russian outfit, the Italian has enjoyed much success since making the move, most recently winning the league title with the Zenitchiki.

Despite that, his side are struggling in the current campaign and currently sit in seventh place having won just five of their 10 matches.

AC Milan are in a similar situation in Serie A though, having picked up just seven points from their opening six games.

"Milan are enduring the same loss of form that we are and for both teams this meeting is critical for morale and even fundamental for the future of them both," said the former Empoli player at a press conference.

"The tie against Milan is the game of the year for us, we cannot fail, otherwise we risk not qualifying for the next round. If we play to our best we can beat anyone."

"My team has a lot of character and they know how to react to certain situations. We have to be aggressive and score goals.

"Nobody has taken our place in the Russian League, we are still Zenit. That is why it is such an important game against Milan because we got it all wrong against Malaga.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Manchester City should be thrown out of Champions League, says Dortmund chief

Hans-Joachim Watzke has slammed the presence of rich benefactors at the English club, demanding Europe's governing body must investigate any suspicious sponsorship deals

Oct 3, 2012 12:25:00 PM

By Tom J Doyle

Borussia Dortmund chief-executive Hans-Joachim Watzke has declared clubs like Manchester City should be thrown out of European competition if their owners "pump crazy money" into their teams with "back-door" sponsorship deals.

The 53-year-old stated the Bundesliga champions will not sacrifice their financial model in favour of an overseas benefactor akin to Sheikh Mansour at Premier League champions City.

And Watzke warned Uefa's new Financial Fair Play model is doomed to failure unless they investigate the sponsorship deals clubs are making as they attempt to avoid new financial regulations.

"Uefa must find the thin line between sponsorship and excessive back-door funding - they must show strength to expel big clubs," he told reporters.

"No tycoon should be allowed to pump crazy money into a club with sponsorship from five companies he controls. If that happens, financial fair play will fail."

Current rules in the Bundesliga stipulate all teams must be at least 51 per cent owned by club members, meaning a third-party investor would not be allowed to take overall control of a side.

However, the significant backing of Sheikh Mansour has allowed their Champions League opponents Manchester City to become a footballing force in recent years. But despite their sudden growth, the Dortmund CEO has no interest in sanctioning such ownership.

He added: "I would not even welcome him [Mansour]. Maybe at other clubs, but what if the Sheikh, as shown by Malaga, lost interest? Then it becomes critical.

"The fact is that the Bundesliga has caught up considerably, thanks to their sound banking practices. This will eventually be expressed by [winning] results."

Of the upcoming Champions League clash between the two sides, Watzke said it will be a tight game due to the standard of players on show.

He continued: "There will not be many goals. At European level, you do not get as many opportunities as in a normal league game."

Meanwhile, BVB coach Jurgen Klopp assured that his side have devised a plan to stop their English opponents in the Champions League, despite the array of big names that they have in their ranks.

"Manchester City are really strong and are peppered with absolute superstars. However, we have a plan," Klupp told Bild.

 

[Weidenfeller]

Leo Beenhakker backs Real Madrid to beat Ajax

As the veteran trainer prepares to watch a meeting between two of his former clubs, he has backed the Spanish capital club to walk away with the three points

Oct 3, 2012 4:30:00 PM

By Tom Maston

Real Madrid are favourites in their Champions League clash with Ajax, according to Leo Beenhakker, former coach of both Los Blancos and De Godenzonen.

The 70-year-old, who is currently technical director at Ujpest, however, believes that the home side could spring a shock if their illustrious opponents have an off-day.

"I will watch with more interest than normal because I cherish warm feelings for both clubs," he told AD.

"The counter-attack of Real is incredible. Within three seconds they are in front of thegoalkeeper. They will only lose if they have a bad day.

"But Ajax beat Manchester United last season. You never know."

Beenhakker has also been an interested in the progress of some of his former Ajax players, like Frank De Boer, Dennis Bergkamp, Rob Witschge and Bryan Roy, who turned to coaching after hanging up their boots.

"Maybe I secretly made a contribution to the road they have travelled. From that group of players, around 15 have gone onto become coaches. I'm proud of that fact."

 

[TimWiese]

Useless Rich Football Clubs

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