Football – Tagged "#ChampionsLeague" – Page 10 – InstaSport

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PSG on Verge of Ligue 1 Title, Treble in Sight

PSG on Verge of Ligue 1 Title, Treble in Sight

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is poised to secure the Ligue 1 title as early as next week, setting the stage for a potential historic treble. After their thrilling comeback victory over Barcelona in the Champions League, PSG now faces a resurgent Lyon on Sunday. A win against Lyon could give PSG the opportunity to clinch the title with four games to spare when they visit Lorient on Wednesday.PSG's triumph against Barcelona has propelled them into the Champions League semi-finals against Borussia Dortmund, as they continue their pursuit of their maiden European crown. Additionally, they will face Lyon in the French Cup final on May 25.Kylian Mbappe, who is set to depart the club at the end of the season, played a pivotal role in the 4-1 second-leg victory over Barcelona, scoring twice. He urged his teammates to remain focused and not get carried away."We have to stay focused and to stay on track towards our goal," Mbappe told PSG TV. "I want to help my team. The truth is, I always want to help the team. We are in a period where every detail counts and it's true that goals help, but not only that. I want to contribute on both sides of the field, to try to help the team as much as possible. To give everything and have no regrets."PSG was on course to win Ligue 1 comfortably last season, but a series of setbacks meant they only secured the title with one match to spare, finishing just one point ahead of Lens. The capital club is determined to avoid such slip-ups this term, but they will face a stern test against Lyon, who have transformed from relegation candidates to European contenders under Pierre Sage.Lyon's 4-3 victory over second-placed Brest last weekend moved them within two points of sixth-placed Lens and the Europa Conference League spot. The race for places in next season's Champions League group stage is also nearing an exciting conclusion, with Brest, Monaco, and Lille, behind leaders PSG, separated by just four points.The top three in the French top flight will go straight into the group stage, with the fourth-placed team heading into the qualifying rounds. Brest host Monaco on Sunday, defending a one-point lead over their third-placed opponents. Lille play Strasbourg earlier that day, with the opportunity to move into third place with a win.

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Rudiger's Defensive Masterclass Silences Haaland, Sends Real Madrid to Champions League Semis

Rudiger's Defensive Masterclass Silences Haaland, Sends Real Madrid to Champions League Semis

Antonio Rudiger's stellar performance against Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-finals not only secured Real Madrid's place in the semi-finals but also highlighted his exceptional defensive prowess. The German defender's ability to neutralize Erling Haaland's threat across both legs was crucial in Madrid's 4-4 aggregate draw and eventual penalty shootout victory.Rudiger's unwavering presence at the heart of Madrid's defense was evident in his ability to contain Haaland, one of the most prolific strikers in Europe. Despite City's dominance in possession, Rudiger's physicality and tactical awareness prevented Haaland from adding to his impressive goal tally.In the first leg at the Etihad Stadium, Rudiger's resolute defending helped Madrid withstand City's relentless attacks. Despite Rodrygo's early goal, City pressed forward, but Rudiger and his defensive partner Nacho Fernandez remained unyielding. Their ability to block shots, intercept passes, and clear crosses kept City at bay.In the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, Rudiger's personal battle with Haaland continued. The defender's physicality and anticipation allowed him to anticipate Haaland's movements and disrupt his rhythm. Rudiger's ability to read the game and position himself effectively prevented Haaland from finding space or creating clear-cut chances.Rudiger's defensive contributions extended beyond his individual battles with Haaland. His leadership and communication skills helped organize Madrid's defense, ensuring that they remained compact and disciplined throughout the tie. His ability to cover for his teammates and make crucial interceptions was instrumental in Madrid's defensive resilience.While Rudiger's defensive performance was exceptional, he also played a pivotal role in Madrid's penalty shootout victory. After Luka Modric missed for Madrid, Rudiger stepped up to take the decisive penalty. With nerves of steel, he calmly slotted the ball past Ederson, securing Madrid's passage to the semi-finals.Rudiger's performance against Manchester City showcased his versatility and importance to Real Madrid. His ability to defend against world-class attackers, organize his defense, and contribute in crucial moments makes him an invaluable asset to Carlo Ancelotti's team. As Madrid prepare to face Bayern Munich in the semi-finals, Rudiger will be confident in his ability to continue his impressive defensive displays and help Madrid reach the Champions League final.

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Real Madrid's "Mentality" Triumphs Over Manchester City in Champions League Thriller

Real Madrid's "Mentality" Triumphs Over Manchester City in Champions League Thriller

Real Madrid's unwavering "mentality" proved decisive as they overcame Manchester City in a thrilling Champions League quarter-final second leg, securing a 4-3 penalty shoot-out victory after a 1-1 draw.Jude Bellingham, who scored one of Real's penalties, hailed the team's ability to handle pressure under the guidance of manager Carlo Ancelotti. "Our biggest strength is he finds a way to let a lot of boys play with freedom," Bellingham said. "As a man, he fills you with calmness and confidence."Real took an early lead through Rodrygo, but Kevin De Bruyne's late equalizer forced the match into extra time. Despite City's dominance, Real held firm, with Bellingham crediting their belief and character. "You have to see it as a responsibility, not a pressure, if you want to play for a team like Real Madrid," he said. "Today it came down to mentality."Bellingham acknowledged City's formidable opposition, but expressed satisfaction with Real's revenge for last season's semi-final defeat. "It's belief," he said. "We stood up really well."Ruben Dias, City's defender, expressed disappointment at the result. "We dominated the game," he said. "It's obviously difficult to take."The victory was particularly special for Bellingham, who played in front of his brother Jobe for the first time since joining Real. "It's beautiful," he said. "My brother is here today, the first time he's seen me play for Madrid."Real's triumph sets up a semi-final clash with either Chelsea or Arsenal, while City will face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

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Bayern Munich Edge Arsenal to Reach Champions League Semi-Finals

Bayern Munich Edge Arsenal to Reach Champions League Semi-Finals

Bayern Munich secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Arsenal in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash, earning a 3-2 aggregate triumph and a place in the semi-finals.The match at the Allianz Arena was a cagey affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances in the opening half. However, Bayern emerged stronger after the break and took the lead in the 63rd minute through a Joshua Kimmich header.Kimmich's goal came after a perfectly executed chip from Raphael Guerreiro, who impressed in an unfamiliar advanced role due to Bayern's injury woes. The Portuguese winger found space down the left flank and linked up well with Jamal Musiala in the center.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta opted for a defensive approach, fielding Takehiro Tomiyasu at left-back to neutralize Leroy Sane. However, the Japanese defender struggled to find his rhythm and allowed Sane to create several dangerous moments.Gabriel Martinelli was Arsenal's most dangerous player in the first half, but he failed to capitalize on his chances. Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer made a crucial save to deny Martinelli a goal on the half-hour mark.After the break, Bayern dominated possession and created several chances. Leon Goretzka headed a Kimmich cross onto the woodwork, while Sane missed a golden opportunity to double Bayern's lead.Arsenal pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, but they were unable to break through Bayern's defense. Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka both had chances in stoppage time, but their shots were blocked.Bayern's victory marks their return to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since winning the title in 2020. They will face Real Madrid for a place in the final.

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Real Madrid Stun Manchester City on Penalties to Reach Champions League Semis

Real Madrid Stun Manchester City on Penalties to Reach Champions League Semis

Manchester City's Champions League title defense came to a heartbreaking end at the Etihad Stadium as Real Madrid held their nerve to win a thrilling penalty shootout 4-3 after a 1-1 draw in extra time.The match started with both teams cautious, but it was Real Madrid who struck first in the 11th minute. Vinicius Junior's brilliant run and pass found Rodrygo, who tapped the ball into an empty net.City dominated possession and created chances, but they struggled to find a way past the resolute Real Madrid defense. Haaland had a header cleared off the line, while Foden and Grealish were denied by goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.In the second half, City continued to press, but it was De Bruyne who finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute. A cross from the left was not properly cleared by Antonio Rudiger, and De Bruyne smashed it home from close range.Just two minutes later, De Bruyne had a golden opportunity to put City ahead, but his shot was tipped over by Lunin.Extra time saw City replace Haaland with Julian Alvarez, but it was Real Madrid who created the better chances. Doku came close to scoring from a pass from the left, but no one got a foot to it.The match went to penalties, and Real Madrid held their nerve to win it. City missed two of their first three penalties, while Real Madrid converted all four of theirs.The victory sends Real Madrid into the semi-finals, while City's treble hopes are over.

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Dortmund Fight Back to Beat Atletico, Reach Champions League Semis

Dortmund Fight Back to Beat Atletico, Reach Champions League Semis

Borussia Dortmund staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Atletico Madrid 4-2 in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday, securing a 5-4 aggregate victory and a first semi-final appearance since 2013.Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Dortmund started brightly and took the lead in the 34th minute through Julian Brandt, who collected a Mats Hummels chip and fired past Jan Oblak. Just five minutes later, Ian Maatsen doubled the advantage, threading in from an acute angle after being given space to run in the Atletico box.However, Atletico coach Diego Simeone made three changes at half-time, including bringing on Angel Correa, and his energy told immediately. Hummels conceded a poor own goal before Correa netted to put Atletico back ahead in the tie.Those goals seemed to jolt Dortmund back to life, and they scored twice in three minutes to retake the overall lead. Niclas Fuellkrug headed in a Marcel Sabitzer cross, and the Austrian midfielder then got a goal of his own, shooting through the Atletico defense and into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.Dortmund held on for a famous victory, sending them through to the semi-finals where they will face Paris Saint-Germain.

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Kylian Mbappe's Brace Sends Barcelona Crashing Out of Champions League

Kylian Mbappe's Brace Sends Barcelona Crashing Out of Champions League

FC Barcelona's Champions League hopes were dashed by a resurgent Paris Saint-Germain, led by the unstoppable Kylian Mbappe. The French superstar, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid at the end of the season, proved to be Barcelona's nemesis once again, scoring a stunning brace to seal PSG's 4-1 victory.Barcelona had taken an early lead through Raphinha, but Ronald Araujo's red card in the 29th minute proved to be a turning point. PSG capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Ousmane Dembele equalizing before Vitinha gave them the lead. Mbappe then took center stage, converting a penalty in the 61st minute and adding a second in the 89th minute to complete his brace.Mbappe's performance was a reminder of his immense talent and the threat he poses to any defense. The 25-year-old has now scored 41 goals this season, including eight in the Champions League. He is the first player in Europe's top flight to reach the 40-goal mark this season.Barcelona's elimination from the Champions League has also confirmed Atletico Madrid's berth in the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup. Barcelona were behind Atletico in the rankings, and their defeat to PSG secured Atletico's qualification for the FIFA event.

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Haaland Faces Criticism as City Aim for Revenge Against Real Madrid

Haaland Faces Criticism as City Aim for Revenge Against Real Madrid

Manchester City, on the cusp of a historic second consecutive treble, face a formidable challenge as they host Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. The match marks a rematch of last season's Champions League semi-final, where City humiliated Madrid 4-0.Despite City's impressive form, Erling Haaland has faced criticism for his recent performances. The Norwegian striker, who has scored 31 goals in 38 games this season, has failed to find the net in City's three meetings with Madrid in the past year.Haaland's critics, including former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher and ex-Manchester United captain Roy Keane, have questioned his all-around contribution, claiming he is a "luxury player" who lacks "world-class" status.The Spanish press has also been critical of Haaland's performance in the first leg of the Champions League tie at the Santiago Bernabeu, describing him as "impotent" and "clumsy."However, City manager Pep Guardiola has defended his star striker, highlighting his impressive goal record and the team's collective success since Haaland's arrival. Guardiola believes Haaland's presence creates space for other players, allowing them to score crucial goals.Despite the criticism, Haaland remains a key figure for City. His ability to score goals and create chances for his teammates makes him a valuable asset in their quest to retain the Champions League and complete the treble.City hold a two-point lead at the top of the Premier League and face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals on Saturday. A victory over Real Madrid would further boost their chances of achieving their ambitious goals.

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Arsenal Face Bayern Munich Test Amid Title Doubts

Arsenal Face Bayern Munich Test Amid Title Doubts

Arsenal's Champions League clash against Bayern Munich on Wednesday looms as a pivotal moment in their season, following their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa in the Premier League. The loss has reignited concerns about the team's ability to handle pressure, reminiscent of their collapse in the title race last season.Despite leading the league for much of the campaign, Arsenal's recent form has raised doubts about their title credentials. Manchester City's resurgence has put them back in the driver's seat, leaving Arsenal facing an uphill battle to secure their first Premier League triumph since 2004.The defeat to Villa was particularly disheartening, as Arsenal dominated the early stages but conceded two late goals to Leon Bailey and Ollie Watkins. The result has left fans fearing that their title hopes may have been dealt a fatal blow.However, Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, has urged his team to remain positive and focus on their upcoming Champions League match. The Gunners have not reached the semi-finals of the competition since 2009, and Arteta believes this is the perfect opportunity to prove their mettle."It's the perfect game for a reaction," said Declan Rice, Arsenal's influential midfielder. "We need to show our character and leadership. It's time to go out there and hopefully get into the semi-finals of the Champions League."Arteta acknowledged that the defeat to Villa was a setback, but he emphasized the importance of bouncing back quickly. "We knew that this moment could come," he said. "Now it's about reacting and keep believing and doing what we can."Arsenal's task against Bayern Munich will be daunting, but the German giants are currently in a state of transition after losing their 11-year grip on the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen. The Gunners will be hoping to capitalize on Bayern's vulnerability and secure a place in the last four of the Champions League.

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