Tag Archives: marcelo

Liverpool want Isco, Ander Herrera and Marcelo Brozovic

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Isco heads Liverpool transfer targets as Rodgers ramps up spending plans

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UPDATED:

08:02 GMT, 21 September 2012

Liverpool are targeting a trio of midfielders as manager Brendan Rodgers steps up his rebuilding plans at Anfield.

The club's scouts have identified Dinamo Zagreb's Marcelo Brozovic and Spanish duo Isco and Ander Herrera as potential signings.

Rodgers, who is aware that Steven Gerrard is approaching the twilight of his career, has so far been thwarted in his efforts to add substantial quality to his squad.

In demand: Malaga's midfielder Isco is likely to be much sought after

In demand: Malaga's midfielder Isco is likely to be much sought after

Croatian under 21 starlet Brozovic was watched during his side's Champions League defeat to Porto this week, according to the Daily Mirror.

Genoa and Lazio are also interested with Dinamo prepared to sell him next summer.

Rodgers is also keeping tabs on Malaga's Isco and Athletic Bilbao's Herrera. The former could be available in a cut-price deal due to his club's perilous financial situation but is likely to be in demand across Europe.

Wanted: Marcelo Brozovic (right) has also caught Liverpool's eye

Wanted: Marcelo Brozovic (right) has also caught Liverpool's eye

Herrera meanwhile, impressed during Bibao's run to the Europa League final last season and is also on Manchester United's radar.

The 22-year-old is valued at 16million.

Russia target Harry Redknapp as next manager

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Russians want Redknapp! Harry joins Capello and Guardiola on new boss shortlist

By
Sportsmail Reporter

PUBLISHED:

13:22 GMT, 10 July 2012

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UPDATED:

14:35 GMT, 10 July 2012

Harry Redknapp is on the shortlist to become the new Russia manager, along with the likes of Pep Guardiola, Fabio Capello and Rafa Benitez.

In an astonishing step, the national association released a statement detailing the list of people they hope to speak with regarding the post vacated by Dick Advocaat after Euro 2012.

From Russia with love: Former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is on the shortlist for the Russian job

From Russia with love: Former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is on the shortlist for the Russian job

RUSSIA MANAGER SHORTLIST
Rafael Benitez
Byshovets
Marcelo
Belsa
Valery Gazzaev
Josep Guardiola
Fabio Capello
Andrei Kobelev
Yuri Krasnozhan
Marcello Lippi
Valery Nepomniaschy
Nikolai Pisarev
Harry Redknapp
Yuri Semin

Joining former Spurs boss Redknapp, are Athletic Bilbao boss Marcelo Bielsa and former Italy coach Marcello Lippi, as well as Capello, Guardiola and ex-Liverpool boss Benitez, along with a host of successful homegrown managers.

A statement from the Russian Football Union read: 'The Russian Football Union officially informs that the organisation plans to, in full compliance with the rules of FIFA and UEFA, speak about the appointment of the head coach of the Russian national team, with the following people: Rafael Benitez, Byshovets, Marcelo Belsa, Valery Gazzaev, Josep Guardiola, Fabio Capello, Andrei Kobelev, Yuri Krasnozhan, Marcello Lippi, Valery Nepomniaschy, Nikolai Pisarev, Harry Redknapp, Yuri Semin.'

In the frame: Former England boss Fabio Capello is also on Russia's wish-list

In the frame: Former England boss Fabio Capello is also on Russia's wish-list

Russia were one of the flops of the summer tournament in Poland and Ukraine, crashing out at the group stages despite winning their opening match 4-1 against eventual Group A winners Czech Republic.

Former England boss Fabio Capello has openly admitted he would be keen to discuss the position, while Roberto Mancini was offered terms only last week before committing his future to Manchester City with a new five-year deal.

Euro woe: Russia were eliminated during the groups stages this summer in Poland and Ukraine

Euro woe: Russia were eliminated during the groups stages this summer in Poland and Ukraine

Redknapp has endured a dismal 2012 since being acquitted of tax charges early in the year. Following his court case, the 65-year-old was sensationally overlooked for England job in the wake of Capello's departure.

The position was eventually filled by Roy Hodgson shortly before the end of the domestic season.

Aiming high: Pep Guardiola is also among the list of high profile names for the Russia vacancy

Aiming high: Pep Guardiola is also among the list of high profile names for the Russia vacancy

All the while, Redknapp watched on as his Tottenham side went from title-challengers to clinging onto fourth place.

Despite doing just enough to get over the line in the Champions League places, Spurs were robbed of the chance to return to Europe's top table by virtue of Chelsea winning the competition in Munich in May.

Then in June, Redknapp left his post at White Hart Lane after four successful years. He was replaced by Andre Villas-Boas earlier this month.'

AND THOSE YOU HAVEN'T HEARD OF….

ANATOLIY BYSHOVETS

A former striker who spent his entire professional career at Dynamo Kiev, as well as winning 39 caps and scoring 15 goals for the USSR.

Since retiring nearly 40 years ago, Byshovets, 66, has held a vast number of coaching and consultancy roles, including a brief spell as sporting director at Hearts in 2004-2005.

He has managed three national sides – the USSR, Russia and South Korea – and won Olympic gold with the Soviet team in 1988. His most recent position was with the Russian second division side FC Ufa, a job he left in January 2011.

VALERY GAZZAEV

Another former USSR striker, who played for the national side in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Gazzaev is currently the president of Alania Vladikavkaz, who have just returned to the Russian Premier League after one season in the league below.

He managed CSKA Moscow to UEFA Cup success in 2005, as well as three Russian titles and three Russian cups.

Gazzaev, 57, spent the bulk of his playing career with Dynamo Moscow and was also part of the USSR side that took bronze in the 1980 Olympics in Moscow.

ANDREI KOBELEV

A young manager currently in charge of Krylia Sovetov, a Russian Premier League side. A favourite for Dynamo Moscow in three spells as a player, Kobelev, 43, then went on to manage them after retirement between 2006 and 2010, with mixed success.

YURI KRASNOZHAN

This would be an appointment from within, because Krasnozhan, 49, is currently in charge of the Russia second team.

He made his name as manager of home-town club Spartak Nalchik, winning this modest club promotion into the Russian Premier League in 2005.

But controversy has dogged his career since – he lost his next job at Lokomotiv Moscow after Chairman Olga Smorodskaya suspected him of throwing a match against Anzhi.

Then, in December 2011, he was appointed Anzhi manager but didn’t oversee a single competitive game – he was sacked after failing to get along with the players.

VALERY NEPOMNIASCHY

The current technical director at CSKA Moscow, 68-year-old Nepomniaschy has a string of jobs behind him in Europe, Africa and Asia.

He memorably coached the Cameroon side which reached the quarter-finals of the 1990 World Cup and has since had managerial jobs in Turkey, China, Japan, Korea and Uzbekistan.

NIKOLAI PISAREV

Another 'in-house' candidate, Pisarev coaches the Russia Under 21 team. In a decorated career, the striker won six Russian championships with Spartak and Dynamo Moscow.

He spent five years as the coach of the Russian beach soccer team between 2005 and 2010, but never progressed past the quarter-final of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in three attempts.

YURI SEMIN

Currently in a second spell as manager of Dynamo Kyiv, Semin is best known in Russia for his achievements with Lokomotiv Moscow.

Transforming them from a mid-table side to a presence in European competition, they won two league titles, five cups and two Russian Super Cups under his leadership, as well as twice reaching the last four of the European Cup Winners’ Cup.

He also won a Ukrainian title with Kyiv in 2008-2009.

Marcelo Bielsa agrees contract Athletic Bilbao extension

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Bielsa agrees contract extension to remain at Athletic Bilbao

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UPDATED:

16:50 GMT, 3 June 2012

Staying in Spain: Coach Marcelo Bielsa

Staying in Spain: Coach Marcelo Bielsa

Athletic Bilbao coach Marcelo Bielsa has agreed a contract extension which will keep him with the Primera Division club until June 2013.

The 56-year-old Argentinian won a legion of admirers over the 2011/12 season for guiding the Basque team to the finals of both the Europa League and the Copa del Rey, as well as a 10th-placed finish in La Liga.

A statement on www.athletic-club.net
confirmed: 'Athletic Club and coach Marcelo Bielsa have agreed to extend
the contractual relationship that unites both parties until June 30,
2013.'

USA 1 Brazil 4: Neymar runs riot

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United States 1 Brazil 4: Super starlet Neymar turns on the Samba style

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UPDATED:

09:04 GMT, 31 May 2012

Neymar scored one goal and set up two more as Brazil warmed up for the Olympics by thumping the United States 4-1 in a friendly at Maryland's FedEx Field.

The Americans went into the game on the back of five straight wins but they were behind early on when Neymar slotted home a penalty after Oguchi Oneywu handled in the box.

Dancing boys: Neymar (2nd right) leads the celebrations after his goal

Dancing boys: Neymar (2nd right) leads the celebrations after his goal

Getting stuck in: Clint Demspey lets Neymar know he's in a game

Getting stuck in: Clint Demspey lets Neymar know he's in a game

Neymar then delivered the corner for Thiago Silva to head home before Herculez Gomez halved the deficit with a header on the stroke of half-time.

Brazil keeper Rafael, making his debut, kept the Americans out with handful of fine saves after the break and breathed a sigh of relief when Oneywu's effort hit the crossbar.

But Neymar, the 20-year-old Santos
starlet, provided the pass for Marcelo to restore Brazil's two-goal
cushion and substitute Alexandre Pato completed the rout three minutes
from time.

Cheers: Marcelo (No 6) hails Neymar for his assist to make it 3-1

Cheers: Marcelo (No 6) hails Neymar for his assist to make it 3-1

Consolation: Herculez Gomez (2nd right) delighted the home crowd with his goal

Consolation: Herculez Gomez (2nd right) delighted the home crowd with his goal

Biarritz 19 Brive 0: Yachvili sets up duel with Wilkinson in Challenge Cup final

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Biarritz 19 Brive 0: Yachvili sets up duel with Wilkinson in Challenge Cup final

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UPDATED:

16:48 GMT, 28 April 2012

Biarritz reached their third European final in six years with a one-sided victory over Brive at the Stade Aguilera.

Dimitri Yachvili kicked 14 points and
Damien Traille crossed for the game's only try as Biarritz set up a May
18 clash with Toulon in the Amlin Challenge Cup final, after Johnny Wilkinson kicked a last-gasp drop goal to secure a
32-29 win over Stade Francais yesterday.

Key man: Dimitri Yachvili sets up a Biarritz attack

Key man: Dimitri Yachvili sets up a Biarritz attack

Yachvili missed an early penalty but kicked his next two to put Biarritz 6-0 up after the opening quarter of the game, Riaan Swanepoel missing for Brive in between times.

And good work by Marcelo Bosch sent Traille over for the game's only touchdown, which was awarded after consultation with the television match official. France team-mate Yachvili added the extras to make it 13-0 at half-time.

Brive had another chance to pull back three points in the 48th minute but Swanepoel was off-target again.

Good work by Benoit Baby and Iain Balshaw earned Yachvili the chance to land his third penalty in the 67th minute, and he slotted another three points five minutes later after a fracas.

That was the end of the scoring, and the game finished on a sour note for Brive when Alexandre Barozzi was red-carded in the last minute.

Real Madrid 2 Bayern Munich 1 (agg 3-3, 1-3 on pens): Germans set up Chelsea final

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Real Madrid 2 Bayern Munich 1 (agg 3-3, 1-3 on pens): Shootout agony for Ronaldo and Jose as Germans set up Chelsea final date

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UPDATED:

12:32 GMT, 26 April 2012

It's Munich in Munich for Chelsea. Hopes of a grand reunion with Jose Mourinho in Bavaria fell apart on a drama-filled night at the Bernabeu.

It went all the way to penalties and the established ability of German teams to convert them proved itself again — more so than the beads Mourinho kissed as he waited for the shootout to begin.

It is the fourth Champions League semi-final Mourinho has lost. Bob Paisley’s record of three European Cups survives another season.

Wunderbar: Bayern Munich celebrate after Bastian Schweinsteiger hit the winning penalty

Wunderbar: Bayern Munich celebrate after Bastian Schweinsteiger hit the winning penalty

Agony: Madrid players react during their penalty shootout defeat at the Bernabeu

Agony: Madrid players react during their penalty shootout defeat at the Bernabeu

MATCH FACTS

Real Madrid: Casillas, Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Alonso, Khedira, Di Maria (Kaka 75), Ozil (Granero 111), Ronaldo, Benzema (Higuain 106).

Subs not used: Adan, Fabio Coentrao, Albiol, Callejon.

Goals: Ronaldo 6 pen, 14.

Booked: Pepe, Arbeloa, Granero

Bayern Munich: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Badstuber, Alaba, Gustavo, Schweinsteiger, Ribery (Muller 95), Kroos, Robben, Gomez.

Subs not used: Butt, Olic, Rafinha, Pranjic, Contento, Tymoschuk.

Goals: Robben 27 pen.

Booked: Alaba, Badstuber, Gustavo, Robben.

Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)

Attendance: 82,619.

After an enthralling first half, a more cagey second and then the weariness of extra-time, the two most expensive footballers in the history of the game — Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka — saw their penalties saved by Bayern Munich keeper Manuel Neuer.

Sergio Ramos then blasted his kick a yard over the bar.

David Alaba and Mario Gomez scored as Ronaldo and Kaka missed, then the Bernabeu was given fresh belief when Iker Casillas made stops from Toni Kroos and Philipp Lahm.

But only Xabi Alonso scored for Real and Bastian Schweinsteiger drilled in the penalty that took Bayern back to their home turf.

There they will meet a Chelsea team missing four players. Bayern began last night with seven of their squad on yellow cards. Three got another — the admirable Alaba, centre half Holger Badstuber, and midfield engine Luis Gustavo, who rivalled Arjen Robben as man of the match.

Robben had three seasons at Stamford Bridge — as well as two at Madrid — so there will be a reunion of sorts. Bayern will miss Gustavo. But Chelsea will have witnessed in Jupp Heynckes’ players a brilliant determination.

No way past: Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer (left) saves in the shootout from Cristiano Ronaldo

No way past: Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer (left) saves in the shootout from Cristiano Ronaldo

Blown it: Ronaldo slumps to the floor after missing the first penalty of the shootout

Blown it: Ronaldo slumps to the floor after missing Real's first penalty of the shootout

On his knees: Madrid manager Jose Mourinho (right) was denied a reunion with former club Chelsea

On his knees: Madrid manager Jose Mourinho (right) was denied a reunion with former club Chelsea

This was meant to be Real’s moment. Ronaldo had said so on Tuesday and, when he scored after six minutes to make the aggregate score 2-2, Madrid thought they were well on the way to a first European Cup final in a decade.

‘The Years Pass, The Legend Is Eternal’ declared a huge banner erected before kick-off. Ironically, as it turned out, Ronaldo’s opener was from a penalty after Alaba was punished harshly for handball. Ronaldo made it 2-0 on 14 minutes with a superb goal, his 54th of an incredible personal season. The Bernabeu was agog.

Spot on: Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) opens the scoring with a penalty past Bayern Munich's keeper Manuel Neuer

Spot on: Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) opens the scoring with a penalty past Bayern Munich's keeper Manuel Neuer

Joy: Ronaldo (centre) celebrates with fans and team-mates after scoring from the penalty spot

Joy: Ronaldo (centre) celebrates with fans and team-mates after scoring from the penalty spot

Sharpshooter: Ronaldo (left) wheels away after scoring Real Madrid's second goal of the night

Sharpshooter: Ronaldo (left) wheels away after scoring Real Madrid's second goal of the night

Milking the applause: Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night

Milking the applause: Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night

But, in between Real’s two goals, Robben somehow missed a six-yard volley and only a last-ditch Sami Khedira tackle prevented Franck Ribery from punishing Casillas for spilling a Gomez shot.

Real’s defensive fragility had been seen, Robben began to roam menacingly and Real backed off. In the 26th minute Robben initiated the move that saw Pepe force Gomez to the floor for the second penalty and second yellow card.

Only just: Arjen Robben (right) squeezes his penalty past Madrid keeper Iker Casillas (centre)

Only just: Arjen Robben (right) squeezes his penalty past Madrid keeper Iker Casillas (centre)

Making his point: Robben celebrates scoring from the penalty spot and hauling Bayern level on aggregate

Making his point: Robben celebrates scoring from the penalty spot and hauling Bayern level on aggregate

Casillas got a hand to Robben’s kick, but it was now 2-1, 3-3 on aggregate.

In the 45th minute, Casillas was tested again by Robben, the 17th attempt in a brilliant, breathless half.

Sacre Bleu: Bayern's French playmaker Franck Ribery reacts after missing a shot on goal

Sacre Bleu: Bayern's French playmaker Franck Ribery reacts after missing a shot on goal

The second could not keep pace, though it started sharply, Gomez worrying Casillas with a header.
Bayern had as much of the play as the hosts and, on 75 minutes, Mourinho introduced Kaka.

But the Brazilian is a diminished force and the one serious chance of the second period fell in the 86th minute to Gomez, who dallied six yards out and the opportunity was lost.

Over the top: Robben takes a tumble after a challenge by Madrid defender Marcelo

Over the top: Robben takes a tumble after a challenge by Madrid defender Marcelo

Football's coming home: Bastian Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the final penalty

Football's coming home: Bastian Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the final penalty

The 30 minutes of extra-time produced no shots on target but there was a tug by Neuer on another home substitute, Esteban Granero, who was booked for diving.

Real Madrid 2 Bayern Munich 1 (agg 3-3, 2-3 on pens): Germans set up Chelsea final

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Real Madrid 2 Bayern Munich 1 (agg 3-3, 2-3 on pens): Shootout agony for Ronaldo and Jose as Germans set up Chelsea final date

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UPDATED:

22:49 GMT, 25 April 2012

It's Munich in Munich for Chelsea. The hopes of a grand reunion with Jose Mourinho in Bavaria fell apart on a drama-filled night at the Bernabeu.

The German ability to convert penalties proved itself again after two full games and and 30 minutes of extra time could not separate two well-matched sides.

Real Madrid missed three of their first four penalties and Bastian Schweinsteiger drilled in the crucial third for Bayern.

Wunderbar: Bayern Munich celebrate after Bastian Schweinsteiger hit the winning penalty

Wunderbar: Bayern Munich celebrate after Bastian Schweinsteiger hit the winning penalty

Agony: Madrid players react during their penalty shootout defeat at the Bernabeu

Agony: Madrid players react during their penalty shootout defeat at the Bernabeu

MATCH FACTS

Real Madrid: Casillas, Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Alonso, Khedira, Di Maria (Kaka 75), Ozil (Granero 111), Ronaldo, Benzema (Higuain 106).

Subs not used: Adan, Fabio Coentrao, Albiol, Callejon.

Goals: Ronaldo 6 pen, 14.

Booked: Pepe, Arbeloa, Granero

Bayern Munich: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Badstuber, Alaba, Gustavo, Schweinsteiger, Ribery (Muller 95), Kroos, Robben, Gomez.

Subs not used: Butt, Olic, Rafinha, Pranjic, Contento, Tymoschuk.

Goals: Robben 27 pen.

Booked: Alaba, Badstuber, Gustavo, Robben.

Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)

Attendance: 82,619.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored one in normal time but Manuel Neuer saved his opener in the shootout.

Mourinho kissed some religious beads before the penalty duel but then disappeared swiftly down the tunnel. He knew Real's great chance had gone. They have followed Barcelona out of the Champions League.

An enthralling match saw Real roar into an early two-goal lead, only for Bayern to reply in a non-stop first half. The game began at a blistering pace and by the 14th minute Ronaldo had scored his 53rd and 54th goals of a stellar season for Madrid to wipe out Bayern's one-goal lead from the first leg.

But the reds of Munich took the punches and jabbed back. They were inspired by Arjen Robben, once of Chelsea, who scored a 27th-minute penalty. Tens of thousands of white flags created a euphoric atmosphere before kick-off.

'This is our moment,' Ronaldo had said on Tuesday and that was the unmistakable feel in one of the great cathedrals of football. A huge banner was unveiled that declared: 'The Years Pass, The Legend Is Eternal'. Bayern could hardly miss the message.

No way past: Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer (left) saves in the shootout from Cristiano Ronaldo

No way past: Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer (left) saves in the shootout from Cristiano Ronaldo

Blown it: Ronaldo slumps to the floor after missing the first penalty of the shootout

Blown it: Ronaldo slumps to the floor after missing Real's first penalty of the shootout

On his knees: Madrid manager Jose Mourinho (right) was denied a reunion with former club Chelsea

On his knees: Madrid manager Jose Mourinho (right) was denied a reunion with former club Chelsea

Manager Jupp Heynckes chose the same
team as last week, despite six of the visiting side being one booking
away from missing the final, were they to get there. In a miserable
opening for the German side, David Alaba was the first Bayern player to
know he was out of the final. It took all of five minutes.

Sami Khedira had already wasted a
good chance by then, running on to a pass from Angel Di Maria. It was Di
Maria's volley that struck Alaba's arm from close range. It was harsh
to say it was deliberate, but Hungarian referee Viktor Kassai thought
so. Alaba saw yellow and Kassai pointed to the spot, from where Ronaldo
stepped up and guided a supreme, cool penalty past Neuer.

Spot on: Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) opens the scoring with a penalty past Bayern Munich's keeper Manuel Neuer

Spot on: Cristiano Ronaldo (centre) opens the scoring with a penalty past Bayern Munich's keeper Manuel Neuer

Joy: Ronaldo (centre) celebrates with fans and team-mates after scoring from the penalty spot

Joy: Ronaldo (centre) celebrates with fans and team-mates after scoring from the penalty spot

Sharpshooter: Ronaldo (left) wheels away after scoring Real Madrid's second goal of the night

Sharpshooter: Ronaldo (left) wheels away after scoring Real Madrid's second goal of the night

Milking the applause: Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night

Milking the applause: Ronaldo celebrates after scoring his second goal of the night

That made it 2-2 on aggregate. Less than 10 minutes later it was 3-2 to the Spanish side. Ronaldo got the second, too. This was a proper move, the ball being zipped around the Real midfield until Mesut Ozil fed Ronaldo just inside the area.

A lesser player would have taken a touch; Ronaldo clipped it early, low and hard. Neuer was left looking helpless.

Only just: Arjen Robben (right) squeezes his penalty past Madrid keeper Iker Casillas (centre)

Only just: Arjen Robben (right) squeezes his penalty past Madrid keeper Iker Casillas (centre)

Making his point: Robben celebrates scoring from the penalty spot and hauling Bayern level on aggregate

Making his point: Robben celebrates scoring from the penalty spot and hauling Bayern level on aggregate

So in 14 minutes Bayern's first-leg 2-1 advantage was overturned. But this was no monopoly possession game a la Barca. In between Real's two goals, Robben somehow missed a six-yard volley and only a last-ditch Khedira tackle prevented Franck Ribery from punishing Iker Casillas's spilling of a Mario Gomez shot.

Real's defensive fragility had been proven and, after falling two behind, Bayern could say 'let's give it a go'. They did. Robben – three years at Chelsea, two at Madrid – was a menace and Real backed off.

Sacre Bleu: Bayern's French playmaker Franck Ribery reacts after missing a shot on goal

Sacre Bleu: Bayern's French playmaker Franck Ribery reacts after missing a shot on goal

In the 26th minute Robben initiated the move that saw Pepe force Gomez to the floor for the evening's second penalty and second yellow card. Some thought it should be red. Robben took the spot kick, Casillas got a hand to it, but it was 2-1, 3-3 on aggregate.

In the 45th minute, Casillas was tested again by Robben, the 17th goal attempt of a brilliant, breathless half.

Over the top: Robben takes a tumble after a challenge by Madrid defender Marcelo

Over the top: Robben takes a tumble after a challenge by Madrid defender Marcelo

Football's coming home: Bastian Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the final penalty

Football's coming home: Bastian Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the final penalty

Bayern had as much of the play as the
hosts and, on 75 minutes, Mourinho introduced Kaka, the second most
expensive footballer ever after Ronaldo.

Man-of-the-match Robben teed up Gomez
in the 86th minute for what seemed a certain winner, but Gomez dallied
and the chance was lost.

Real Madrid v Bayern Munich live

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CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LIVE: Real Madrid v Bayern Munich – the action from the Bernabeu as it happens

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UPDATED:

19:03 GMT, 25 April 2012

Follow Sportsmail's coverage of the Champions League as Real Madrid host Bayern Munich at the Bernabeu in the second leg of their semi-final. The German side have the advantage after winning 2-1 at the Allianz Arena and will target at least a draw to guarantee progress to a final set to be played on their home turf. Send me your thoughts on the action at dan.ripley@dailymail.co.uk or contact me on Twitter @Ripinho.

Real Madrid 2-0 Bayern Munich (7.45pm)
Aggregate 3-2

Real Madrid: Casillas, Arbeloa,
Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Alonso, Khedira, Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo,
Benzema.
Subs: Adan, Kaka, Granero, Fabio Coentrao, Albiol, Higuain,
Callejon.

Goals: Ronaldo 6 pen, 14.

Bayern Munich: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng,
Badstuber, Alaba, Gustavo, Schweinsteiger, Ribery, Kroos, Robben, Gomez.
Subs: Butt, Olic, Rafinha, Pranjic, Muller, Contento, Tymoschuk.

Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)

17min: That doesn't change anything for the visitors by the way. They still need just one goal to get back into this.

That can't be good for the defence's confidence though – they were torn apart there.

14min: GOAL! REAL MADRID 2-0 Bayern Munich

Just sublime play from Madrid. A quick passing move finds Mesut Ozil 25 yards out, who has the option to pick a pass for Karim Benzema or Cristiano Ronaldo.

The German picks the latter and the ex-Manchester United forward makes no mistake to slide the ball into the bottom corner from inside the box.

12min: Another great chance for Munich. Iker Casillas fumbles a shot from the edge of the box but with Franck Ribery waiting to convert the rebound, Khedira makes a timely slide tackle to concede a corner.

9min: What a chance for Munich to equalise! Alaba skates to the byline on the left flank before his cross finds Arjen Robben in the box.

The Dutchman, with just the keeper to beat, clips the low ball over the bar though – bad miss.

6min: GOAL! REAL MADRID 1-0 Bayern Munich

Thanks Kassai (see 19.18.) Marcelo's cross found Di Maria, whose first time cross cannoned off the arm of David Alaba to win a penalty – The defender had no chance of moving the offending limb as he slid in for a challenge.

To make matters worse he is booked and will now miss the final should Munich get there.

Cristiano Ronaldo is in no mood for sympathy though as he calmly tucked away the penalty into the bottom corner.

5min: PENALTY (Real Madrid)

3min: First chance Madrid. Angel Di Maria cuts in from the byline before laying the ball back for Sami Khedira.

The midfielder elects placement over power though and Manuel Neuer comfortably takes his low shot – decent chance that.

Kick-off: Munich get us underway.

19.43: Out come the players then on a fine spring evening in Madrid. Better than the wash-out we have in the UK anyway.

19.40: There isn't a spare seat in the house for this (and there are 85,000 of them) with the home fans all around the stadium waving white flags.

I assume they are in support of Madrid rather than an act of surrender…that would just be too easy for Bayern Munich wouldn't it

19.37: From InfostradaLive:

If Bayern reach the Final, they are the first club to play the CL final on their home ground. AS Roma were the last to do so in the Champions Cup in 1984 (1-1, 2-4 after penalties vs Liverpool).

In 1986 the final was originally scheduled for FC Barcelona’s Camp Nou, but after Bara reached that final, the match was relocated to Seville.

19.34: So how many of us want a Real Madrid v Chelsea final

The pull of Jose Mourinho being the one man that stands between Chelsea and the Champions League trophy is just too good of a script to turn down.

Having said that I also like the idea of Chelsea having to face Bayern Munich at their home stadium, the Allianz Arena.

Either would be a fascinating contest for the Blues.

19.31: Time for a preview on tonight's match with Sportsmail's Michael Walker.

Quite a few players treading a thin line in regards to missing the final through picking up bookings.

19.26: From InfostradaLive:

Current Bayern coach Heynckes gave 16-year-old Iker Casillas his first CL call-up for Real at Rosenborg in Nov 1997. Iker stayed on bench.

Calm down Dave! Bayern Munich keeper Oliver Kahn attempts to restrain David Beckham during Real Madrid's 1-0 win over the German side at the Bernabeu in 2004

Calm down Dave! Bayern Munich keeper Oliver Kahn attempts to restrain David Beckham during Real Madrid's 1-0 win over the German side at the Bernabeu in 2004

19.23: Real Madrid have won their last three home games against Bayern Munich but victory still might not be enough this evening.

A 1-0 win, like they achieved in 2004, will see them through on away goals.

But a 3-2 victory, like they achieved in 2007, will see them go out on the same very rule.

If Jose Mourinho's side win 2-1 then we are going to extra-time.

19.18: REF WATCH: Viktor Kassai

It usually backfires when I praise a referee before a game, but Kassai does usually produce the goods.

The Hungarian has a decent track record of officiating big games, even taking control of the Champions League final at Wembley last season between Barcelona and Manchester United

He's proven to be a curse to English sides though this term. Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal have all lost when he has taken control of their European games against Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich and AC Milan respectively.

No such problem tonight obviously.

Stars in their eyes: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo (left) trains ahead of the Bernabeu clash

Stars in their eyes: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo (left) trains ahead of the Bernabeu clash

19.13: Full team news from the Bernabeu:

Real Madrid v Bayern Munich
Real Madrid: Casillas, Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Alonso, Khedira, Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo, Benzema. Subs: Adan, Kaka, Granero, Fabio Coentrao, Albiol, Higuain, Callejon.

Bayern Munich: Neuer, Lahm, Boateng, Badstuber, Alaba, Gustavo, Schweinsteiger, Ribery, Kroos, Robben, Gomez. Subs: Butt, Olic, Rafinha, Pranjic, Muller, Contento, Tymoschuk.

Referee: Viktor Kassai (Hungary)

19.08: Meanwhile what do we make of the news that John Terry's ban could be extended from one-match

Correct me if I'm wrong (and please do) but we have a precedent in Wayne Rooney's kick-out at a Montenegro defender that has landed him a two-game ban going into Euro 2012.

Terry could face similar action but is there really any case for him being banned longer than that

19.03: Well at least Bayern boss Jupp Heynckes promises to deliver a memorable game.

He wasn't pulling no punches when he described this tie as spectacular in the press conference.

18.58: Bayern Munich starting XI:

Neuer; Lahm, Boateng, Badstuber, Alaba; Schweinsteiger, Luiz Gustavo; Robben, Kroos, Ribery; Gomez.

18.53: Probably worth getting this cliche out of the way early doors, but football surely will be the winner tonight.

A couple of you thought the first-leg in Munich was full of simulation but I thoroughly enjoyed the attacking talent both teams had on offer.

More of the same again this evening please.

18.50: Real Madrid starting XI:

Casillas; Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo; Xabi Alonso, Khedira; Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo; Benzema.

18.45: Good evening folks, I hope you have recovered from last night's semi-final because we are about to do it all over again when Real Madrid host Bayern Munich.

The winner of course will meet Chelsea in the final next month so let's get some team news.

Super Mario: Gomez (centre) scored in the last minute to hand Bayern Munich victory in the first leg

Super Mario: Gomez (centre) scored in the last minute to hand Bayern Munich victory in the first leg

Five targets for Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson

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Most wanted! Five targets for Man United boss Ferguson

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UPDATED:

22:42 GMT, 19 April 2012

Ander Iturraspe of Athletic Bilbao

The breathtaking manner in which Athletic Bilbao dismantled Manchester United last month made Europe take notice.

Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to acknowledge them as an emerging force and earmarked their players as future stars of Old Trafford.

On Thursday night he sent brother and European scout Martin Ferguson to Lisbon to take a closer look at six of their side as they took on Sporting.

Ander Iturraspe

(Position: Defensive midfield Age: 23)

The Basque (right) is a midfielder who has so far slipped under the radar of Europe's elite clubs. He is a player in the mode of Barcelona's Sergio Busquets and dictates the tempo of Bilbao's play, making them tick with his speed of thought and sleight of feet. Although United have prioritised a goalscoring midfielder and left back on their shopping list for this summer, Iturraspe is a player they admire greatly.

Oscar de Marcos

Aggressive: Midfielder Oscar de Marcos

Oscar de Marcos

(Position: Attacking midfield Age: 22)

If anyone has benefited from Athletic's revival under coach Marcelo Bielsa it is him. Started the season on the fringes of the team but, after playing left back and right midfield, has made his mark as an attacking midfielder. He is always on the front foot, and aggressive, as his rash challenge on Sporting's Diego Capel showed. Needs his goals tally to outstrip his assists to become the new Paul Scholes.

Javi Martinez of Athletic Bilbao

Versatile: Spain international Javi Martinez

Javi Martinez

(Position: Centre back Age: 23)

The elegant Spain international has converted from centre midfield to defence and, after admitting having difficulties over the discipline required for the position, is now revelling in the role. His versatility has merited Martin Ferguson's attention while Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal have also monitored his progress. A buy-out clause of 33.5million has deterred bids but Barcelona are tipped to move for him this summer.

Athletic Bilbao's Ander Herrera

Tough: Midfielder Ander Herrera

Ander Herrera

(Position: Midfield Age: 22)

Mentally tough character who developed at Real Zaragoza before joining his hometown club. Has vision, pace and an incredible workrate. Has been compared to Scholes and Steven Gerrard in his style and ability to find the right pass. Can play with either foot, but prefers his right. Speaks good English and is already aware of strong interest from Manchester City, who have made contact with his representatives.

Athletic Bilbao's Iker Muniain

Quick: Striker Iker Muniain

Iker Muniain

(Position: Striker Age: 19)

An exciting player with electric pace and a quick mind. Likened to Wayne Rooney and Lionel Messi, he is still developing his strength but has great power and balance for his size. He is a close friend of United goalkeeper David de Gea from their days with Spain's Under 19s. Liverpool's former director of football Damien Comolli is a fan and United recognise that, while he is often used out wide, he could be best suited to playing as a second striker.

Athletic Bilbao's forward Fernando Llorente

Threat: Fernando Llorente (right)

…and another who's in demand

Fernando Llorente

(Position: Striker Age: 27)

El Rey Leon – the Lion King – scored in both legs against United and always carries a threat. Manchester City like him but United want more pace. Meanwhile Liverpool are hoping to beat their rivals to another boy from Bilbao. Representatives have opened talks over 16-year-old striker Mikel Zaton, who has scored 25 goals in 28 games for Athletic's youth side this season.

Europa League round-up: Athletic Bilbao come from behind to beat Schalke

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Europa League round-up: Bilbao come from behind to stun Raul inspired Schalke

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UPDATED:

21:54 GMT, 29 March 2012


Big win: Fernando Llorente starred in Athletic Bilbao's comeback

Big win: Fernando Llorente starred in Athletic Bilbao's comeback

Fresh from mauling Manchester United, Marcelo Bielsa's Athletic Bilbao took a giant stride towards the UEFA Europa League semi-finals with a dramatic 4-2 first leg win at Schalke 04.

Fernando Llorente scored twice as Bilbao came from behind to grab their crucial advantage, which they boosted in injury time when Iker Muniain scored his side's fourth.

Llorente put the visitors ahead on 20 minutes at the Veltins-Arena but Schalke hit back with two goals from Raul either side of the break to nudge the German side in front.

But Bilbao, without a win in three since seeing off Sir Alex Ferguson's men, responded through Llorente again and an 81st minute goal from Oscar De Marcos before Muniain added to their lead.

Substitute Eduardo Salvio struck in the 89th minute as Atletico Madrid claimed a potentially crucial 2-1 first leg advantage in their quarter-final clash with Hannover in Spain.

The Germans looked to be heading home with a draw after Mame Biram Diouf equalised Radamel Falcao's early strike, but Salvio let fly from 20 yards to leave his side in command.

But it was not all good news for the Primera Liga as former UEFA Cup winners Valencia were beaten 2-1 away Dutch Eredivisie leaders AZ Alkmaar.

Still got it: The legendary Raul was exceptional

Still got it: The legendary Raul was exceptional

Brett Holman put the home side in front in first half injury time and although Mehmet Topal equalised in the 52nd minute, Maarten Martens hit what turned out to be AZ's winner with 11 minutes left.

Sporting Lisbon beat Metalist Kharkiv 2-1 in Portugal but can expect a much tougher second leg after the Ukrainians gave themselves hope with an injury-time penalty.

Sporting were cruising through second half goals from Marat Izmailov and Emiliano Insua, but Cleiton Xavier's spot-kick deep into added time will give Metalist plenty of hope.