Weekend info

Chelsea 2 - Arsenal 1 (Premier League, March 23, 2008) Almunia easily saved a Ballack free-kick after six minutes at the Bridge. Arsenal dominated the early exchanges and Van Persie blazed over on 15, seconds later Cudicini was forced to come out but Eboue was unable to take advantage. On 25 Drogba ran through but failed to control. Five minutes before the break Gallas should have put the Gunners in front at the back post, the linesman had though flagged for offside. (First-half highlights here.) Early in the second-half, Drogba ran through again but was unable to finish, Gallas did well to put him off. Bacary Sagna broke the deadlock just before the hour mark, heading home at the near post from a Fabregas corner, his first goal in English football. With twenty minutes to go, seconds after a double substitution by Avram Grant, Didier Drogba equalised with a fine finish. And the Ivorian turned the game round, and potentially crushed Arsenal’s title hopes, with the second, Almunia could have done better with Drogba’s finish. (Second-half highlights here.)

Manchester United 3 - Liverpool 0 (Premier League, March 23, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) In the sixth minute at Old Trafford, Rooney was played in by Anderson but Reina narrowed the angle and blocked well. Midway through the first-half Ronaldo hit the post after ghosting in at the back post, the chance was flagged for offside. Minutes later Steven Gerrard saw a vicious shot deflected for a corner. On 32 minutes Reina juggled a Giggs cross. And two minutes later the Liverpool goalkeeper was at fault for Wesley Brown’s opener, the United right back headed in a Rooney cross, as Reina flapped. Seconds before the break Javier Mascherano was sent-off for receiving his second yellow card for dissent (first yellow here). United dominated the early part of the the second-half, Ronaldo went close with a free-kick and Rooney should have scored when played in by a superb ball from Van Der Sar. Seconds after coming on Tevez should have doubled United’s advantage but Reina again saved from close range. Two goals in three minutes finished the game, Cristiano Ronaldo headed his 34th of the season after Reina flapped again. (The corner was won after Ronaldo missed an easy chance, Reina pushed his shot onto the bar.) And Nani bagged the third after a one-two with Rooney followed by a great finish into the corner.

Gretna 0 - Celtic 3 (SPL, March 23, 2008) Goals by Scott McDonald, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Georgios Samaras proved enough to secure the points for Celtic, as they closed the gap on leaders Rangers.

***

Real Madrid 2 - Valencia 3 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) David Villa silenced the Bernabeu when received the ball after Sneijder had been caught out in possession, before coolly slotting home past Casillas. Valencia’s lead was only momentary, as Raul restored parity with a header minutes later. Madrid’s comeback was complete ten minutes after the break when Guti fed Raul to slot home his second. But a resurgent Valencia drew level when Villa steered home a penalty, and Los Che turned the match on its head when Arizmendi bagged an 88th minute solo winner to give Barca new hope in the title race. Special mention to Hilderbrand, who made a string of terrific saves for Valencia.

Barcelona 4 - Valladolid 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Samuel Eto’o put Barca in front at home against Valladolid. Gonzalez equalised seven minutes later from the spot. Iniesta put Barca 2-1 up three minutes into the second-half. Bojan Krkic got the third on 62 from close range. And the young Serbian added the fourth with eight minutes to go after unselfish play from Eto’o.

Racing Santander 2 - Recreativo Huelva 0 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Racing took advantage of a red-card for Recre defender Caceres 25 minutes from time, to claim a late win thanks to late goals from Orteman and Smolarek. Racing moved up to fifth place in the table.

Zaragoza 1 - Almeria 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Oliveira headed the home side in front just eight minutes after team mate Gabi had been sent-off, but Almeria snatched a point when Negredo stabbed in from close range in injury-time.

Osasuna 0 - Real Betis 1 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Mark Gonzalez earned Betis a valuable away win, scoring off a free-kick early in the second-half. Osasuna had Javi Garcia was sent-off late on.

Levante 1 - Villarreal 2 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Villarreal took the lead just before the half hour when Matias Fernandez drilled home from the edge of the area, but Angel headed in an equaliser midway through the second-half. The Yellow Submarine stole all three point when Franco struck a late winner.

Real Murcia 4 - Espanyol 0 (La Liga, March 23, 2008) Alonso opened from the penalty spot, before netted his brace after the break. Abel made it 3-0 with another spot-kick, and Richi wrapped up with a late header.

***

Hertha Berlin 1 - Schalke 2 (Bundesliga, March 23, 2008) Goals from Asamoah and Jones put Stuttgart two-up at Hertha Berlin. Chahed converted a penalty but it was not enough to save Hertha’s six-match unbeaten streak.

Arminia Bielefeld 1 - Werder Bremen 1 (Bundesliga, March 23, 2008) Bremen dented their championship hopes, drawing to relegation-threatened Arminia. Kirch poked the ball home the opener for the hosts, Diego netted the equaliser for Bremen from the penalty spot 20 minutes from time.

***

FC Twente 2 - Ajax 1 (Eredivisie, March 23, 2008) Ajax’s title hopes have taken another blow with this defeat. A Douglas og had put the away side in front but late goals from Wilkshire and Elia gave Twente the victory.

***

Rennes 3 - Lens 1 (Ligue 1, March 23, 2008) Jerome Leroy opened the scoring with a delightful chip, before laying on goals for Pagis (following a saved penalty from Briand) and Thomert either side of half-time. Maoulida had brought Lens level.

***

OFI Crete 2 - Skoda Xanthi 0 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) Petropoulos’ header and a fine free-kick from Taralidis secured the win.

Panionios 4 - Asteras Tripolis 1 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) Panionios went four goals up through Kumortzi, Djebbour and a brace from Choutos, before the visitors pulled one back through Milano.

Levadiakos 1 - Olympiakos 3 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008) After falling behind to Dibala’s goal, Olympiakos bagged three first-half replies through Galleti, Belluschi and Kovacevic.

Aris Thessalonikis 1 - Larissa 1 (Greek Super League, March 23, 2008)

***

FC Moscow 0 - Zenith St. Petersburg 2 (Russian Premier Liga, March 23, 2008) Arshavin (lovely free-kick) and Aniukov with the goals.

***

Galatasaray 2 - Denizlispor 1 (Super Lig, March 23, 2008) Diabolical goalkeeping gifted Cetin an 88th minute winner for Gala.

Newcastle 2 - Fulham 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) Kevin Keegan finally won his first game on his return as Newcastle manager, crucially against fellow relegation strugglers Fulham. Newcastle went ahead in the sixth minute through Viduka, and after forcing Keller to make a string of saves, Owen sealed the Toon’s first win since January 16th with an 83rd-minute header.

Tottenham 2 - Portsmouth 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) A frustrating game was settled in the closing stages by two Spurs substitutes. Darren Bent scored in the 80th minute, with Jamie O’Hara doubling the score in the 82nd after both players had come on 10 minutes earlier.

Middlesbrough 1 - Derby 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) George Boateng fed the ball into Tuncay’s path and the Boro striker ran past the Derby defenders before firing low into the corner.

Aston Villa 0 - Sunderland 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) Michael Chopra came off the bench to score a vital goal in Sunderland’s fight against relegation as they recorded their first away win of the season.

Everton 1 - West Ham 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) West Ham handed 18-year-old James Tomkins a Premier League debut, and the youngster saw a header hit the bar early on. But unfortunately for Tomkins, moments later he was caught out by Yakubu, who turned and scored a fine solo goal early in the first-half (highlights here). After the break, Ashton got on the end of a Neill cross, and powerfully headed the home the equaliser.

Blackburn 3 - Wigan 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) Roque Santa Cruz scored with two headers either side of an equaliser from Marlon King, with Roberts adding a third on the stroke of half-time. Rovers lost Samba to a 17th-minute red card for bringing down Heskey in the box, while Wigan had Palacios sent-off for two bookable offences.

Reading 2 - Birmingham 1 (Premier League, March 22, 2008) Andre Bikey was the unlikely hero for the Royals. Bikey headed home Oster’s free-kick to give Coppell’s men the lead at the break. Zarate equalised for City in the second half but Bikey won the game with ten minutes to go when he converted Nicky Shorey’s free-kick.

Bolton 0 - Manchester City 0 (Premier League, March 22, 2008)

***

Charlton 1 - WBA 1 (Championship, March 21, 2008) Greg Halford scored the opener for Charlton, heading home Ambrose’s free-kick. But just before the break Phillips grabbed his 21st goal of the season when he smashed in from close range.

***

Dundee United 2 - Motherwell 0 (SPL, March 22, 2008) Sub-Swanson scored after less than a minute on the pitch, with Mark de Vries bagging the second with two minutes remaining.

Rangers 2 - Hibernian 1 (SPL, March 22, 2008) Rangers notched up their 12th straight win thanks to goals from Jean-Claude Darcheville and Nacho Novo. Dean Shiels’ goal in the 90th minute pulled one back for Hibs.

***

Mallorca 1 - Deportivo La Coruna 0 (La Liga, March 22, 2008) Mallorca took the lead over Deportivo when Arango’s free-kick evaded everyone and ended up in the net.

Sevilla 1 - Atletico Madrid 2 (La Liga, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Maxi Rodriguez gave Atletico the perfect start, getting on the end of a low cross to convert at the back stick. Sevilla pulled level just after the break through Capel, but free-scoring Madrid restored their advantage when wunderkid Ageuro connected with a cross to volley home the second. Sevilla ended with 10-men after Maresca was sent-off for a headbutt.

***

Inter Milan 1 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Del Piero forced a smart save from Cesar, while at the other end Inter came close as Stankovic’s header grazed the bar. Buffon had to save Chivu’s long range free-kick as Inter pressed, but it was Juventus who took the lead after the break when Camoranesi (offside?) tucked the ball home at the far-post. Serie A was then blown wide open when Juve doubled their lead as Trezeguet volleyed home number two. Del Piero blew a chance to put the game to bed, and Inter responded with Maniche getting a goal back from close range. But Juve held on for the vital win, which breathes new life into the Italian title race.

Roma 2 - Empoli 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Tonetto fired Roma ahead before half-time but Empoli hit back when Giovinco equalised for the visitors, and Perrotta was sent-off soon after. But Panucci’s second-half header ensured the Romans bounced back after their derby defeat with a priceless win.

Torino 0 - AC Milan 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Milan got a vital win at Torino thanks to a scrambled goal from Pato.

Fiorentina 1 - Lazio 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Fiorentina consolidated fourth place beating 10-man Lazio 1-0 at home thanks to Giampaolo Pazzini’s second-half goal. Lazio’s Massimo Mutarelli was red-carded in the 37th minute.

Sampdoria 1 - Cagliari 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Foggia chipped Castellazzi to score for the basement side three minutes before the break. But Franceschini’s stoppage-time header gave Samp a share of the spoils.

Reggina 1 - Napoli 1 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A fabulous stoppage-time strike from outside the area by Franco Brienza, his fourth goal in three games, gave Reggina a deserved draw after Roberto Sosa had scored for Napoli in the 76th minute.

Siena 2 - Parma 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A last-gasp double from Massimo Maccarone, the first from the spot and the second scored at the far-post, condemned Hector Cuper to his first defeat as Parma coach.

Udinese 2 - Livorno 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) A brilliant long distance strike from Quagliarella opened the scoring after 19 minutes, Di Natale doubled up two minutes after the break.

Palermo 2 - Genoa 3 (Serie A, March 22, 2008) Amauri, one of the hottest properties in Europe, opened the scoring for Palermo from the spot, but goals from Figueroa (30), Milanetto (50) and Konko (61) turned things around. Amauri grabbed a lovely second in stoppage-time.

Atalanta 0 - Catania 0 (Serie A, March 22, 2008)

Spezia 1 - Vicenza 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Avellino 1 - Modena 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Mantova 0 - Albinoleffe 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Messina 1 - Bari 2 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Bologna 2 - Frosinone 1 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

Chievo 1 - Piacenza 0 (Serie B, March 21, 2008)

***

Bayern Munich 2 - Bayer Leverkusen 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Bayern picked up another crucial win against title challengers Leverkusen thanks to a goal in each half from Luca Toni. Bulykin scored a late goal for the visitors.

Borussia Dortmund 1 - Karlsruhe 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Mladen Petric put Dortmund ahead in the 24th minute with a stunning free-kick, before slack defending presented the ball eventually to Sebastian Freis, and his deflected shot brought Karlsruhe level.

Stuttgart 4 - Hansa Rostock 1 (Bundesliga, March 22, 2008) Pardo and Cacua gave Stuttgart a 2-0 lead inside two minutes midway through the second-half, but Gomez’s own-goal soon brough Hansa back in the game. Gomez made amends by scoring in the 87th minute and Basturk wrapped up the win in injury-time.

***

PSV 3 - Groningen 0 (Eredivisie, March 22, 2008) An excellent team move ended up with Koevermans rounding the keeper to score the opener for PSV. Horrific goalkeeping gifted Bakkel the second, and Koevermans found himself in the right place to add number three.

Heerenveen 4 - Roda 3 (Eredivisie, March 22, 2008) Roda raced to a two goal lead through Lamah and Yulu-Matondo, but Heerenveen hit back when Bradley turned home a loose ball. Janssen restored Roda’s two goal cushion, only for Henrique, Beerens and Bradley (scissor-kick) to score three second-half goals to steal the win for the hosts.

Vitesse 3 – NAC 3 (Eredivisie, March 21, 2008) Idabdelhay handed the visitors the lead after just three minutes before Van der Schaaf doubled their advantage within the opening 20 minutes. Claudemir (35) struck back for Vitesse, but Molhoek scored a a cracker to restore NAC’s two-goal lead. But the home side were not disheartened, and a brace from Santi Kolk (52 and 57) secured a point in a memorable encounter.

***

Nancy 2 - Metz 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Hadji gave Nancy the lead, which looked to have been enough until Bessat equalised with three minutes to go. But a dramatic 89th minute winner header from Zerka gave the hosts the win, despite seeing Chretien red-carded in the final seconds.

Marseille 0 - Sochaux 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Fourth-placed Olympique Marseille did their chances of reaching the Champions League no favours, losing to lowly Sochaux after N’daw scored with a magnificent lob after just two minutes.

Nice 1 - Lorient 2 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Vahirua opened the scoring against his old team, but Bakari Kone brough Nice back level. Rafik Saifi got the winner with a header.

Caen 4 - Monaco 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Caen hit four second-half goals to record their first victory of 2008. After falling behind to Sambou’s early opener Hengbart, Sorbon, Gouffran and a rip-snorter from Jemaa finally put an end to Caen’s Ligue 1 free-fall.

Auxerre 1 - Saint-Etienne 3 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) The hosts had the early lead five minutes after Benalouane headed through his own net. Landrin equalised on the hour mark. Ilan gave the visitors the lead minutes later and Feindouno sealed an emphatic win.

Valenciennes 3 - Bordeaux 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008) Roudet raced into the box and struck from a tight angle to put Valenciennes in front on 10 minutes, but the visitors equalised with a superb free-kick from Wendel. Sebo put the home side back in front and Savidan wrapped it up for Valenciennes with an acrobatic volley to dent Bordeaux’s title dreams.

Strasbourg 0 - Lille 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008)

Toulouse 1 - Le Mans 1 (Ligue 1, March 22, 2008)

***

Vitoria Setubal 0* - Sporting Lisbon 0 (Pens 3-2) (Carlsberg Cup, March 22, 2008) Setubal won the League Cup final, with goalkeeper Eduardo Carvalho stealing all the plaudits with three saves in the shootout.

WEEKEND VIDEO GOALS AND FOOTBALL NEWS

Middlesbrough 0 - Cardiff 2 (FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The magic of the FA Cup continued to show no signs of abating when Peter Wittingham gave Cardiff the lead with a brilliant finish after showing off sublime close control in the Boro box. And then the Championship side went two goals to the good as Whittingham delivered a free-kick onto the head of Johnson, who clinically nodded in number two. (First-half highlights here.) In the second-half, Boro impotently fired a host of blanks as they hugely disappointed after being outplayed by Cardiff.

Bristol Rovers 1 - West Bromwich Albion 5 (FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The Baggies look a good bet to win the competition after this quarter-final rout of Bristol Rovers. Ishmael Miller scored a hat-trick, the first of which was a lovely finish. James Morrison had put WBA in front and Kevin Phillips struck the fourth. Danny Coles had pulled one back before half-time to bring it back to 2-1, but the Baggies were a class apart and have a great chance of further FA Cup glory.

Wigan 0 - Arsenal 0 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Arsenal, drawing for the third successive game in the league, were far from their fluent best and created few clear openings, Adebayor and Fabregas wasted their best chances. Arsenal have a two point lead over Manchester United, but the Red Devils have a game in hand.

Tottenham 4 - West Ham 0 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) Spurs took an early two-goal lead against West Ham. The first came from a Huddlestone cross from the right headed home by Dimitar Berbatov. The same partnership led to the second for Berbatov, this time Huddlestone’s free-kick came from the left hand side. In the final minutes Gilberto and Darren Bent added goals for the home side to inflict the third 4-0 defeat on the Hammers in eight days.

Sunderland 0 - Everton 1 (Premier League, March 9, 2008) The Toffees kept up the pressure on Liverpool by beating relegation-threatened Sunderland thanks to Andy Johnson’s shoulder goal.

Aberdeen 1 - Celtic 1 (Scottish FA Cup, March 9, 2008) The Dons looked to be on their way to a semi final meeting against Queen of the South following a second-half goal from Jeffrey De Visscher. But a 91st minute goal from Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink earned Celtic a draw at a stunned Pittodrie.

Genoa 0 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Juve took a 2-0 lead into the break thanks to goals from Grygera (great hit) and Trezeguet.

Empoli 1 - AC Milan 3 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) AC Milan responded to their Champions League exit by scoring early on at Empoli as Pato rolled home a dropped cross by the keeper. The Rosseneri then found themselves guilty of weak defending, as Busce steered home the equaliser at the back post. Two goals from Ambrosini and Kaka in the last five minutes gave Milan the win.

Lazio 2 - Livorno 0 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Lazio flew out the traps against Livorno, bagging two early goals through forwards Rocchi and Pandev.

Siena 1 - Fiorentina 0 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) The Viola allowed AC Milan to claw themselves back to just one point off fourth spot after Massimo Maccarone scored an incredible free-kick 10 minutes from time, only to then be dismissed for picking up a second booking after he whipped off his shirt in celebration.

Parma 1 - Sampdoria 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) The visitors took an 11th minute lead through Maggio before Parma’s Gasbarroni missed from the penalty spot five minutes into the second-half. Bonazzoli made it 2-0, Budan grabbed a consolation.

Catania 2 - Cagliari 1 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Conti put Cagliari, but Silvestri equalised two minutes from the break. A Canini own-goal completed the comeback for Catania.

Napoli 0 - Roma 2 (Serie A, March 9, 2008) Simone Perrotta’s early finish and Francesco Totti’s second-half penalty put second-placed Roma six points behind Inter.

Barcelona 1 - Villareal 2 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Marcus Senna gave Villareal the lead at the Nou Camp from a penalty after Franco was brought down by Victor Valdes.With just over twnety minutes remaining, Xavi equalised after great work by Iniesta. Late on, Jon Dahl Tomasson stunned the Nou Camp, bagging the winner after a fine break by the Yellow Submarine.

Mallorca 7 - Recreativo Huelva 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Arango broke the deadlock, and it was 2-0 within 60 seconds courtesy of Daniel Guiza’s goal. Guiza scored again on 32 minutes and Valero got the fourth, before Ruben pulled one back for Recre. Valero netted his second of the game before half-time and Arango scored twice in the early stages of the second period to complete the rout and his hat-trick.

Sevilla 2 - Levante 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Levante took the lead away at Seville after only five minutes thanks to a brilliant chip from Riga. But the hosts bounced back when Keita equalised on 28 minutes and Luis Fabiano notched the winner in the second-half.

Valencia 2 - Deportivo La Coruna 2 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) A Valencia counter-attack built down the right-hand side resulted in Mata bagging the opening goal at the far post. Minutes later, after yet another well worked team move, the lead was doubled as Villa (again) found the net at the far post. But Los Che have been a soft touch this season, and Depor pulled a goal back when Sergio embarrassed Hilderbrand from a free-kick, only for Lafita to score the leveller on the stroke of half-time.

Murcia 0 - Getafe 3 (La Liga, March 9, 2008) Michael Laudrup’s side continue to impress. Goals from Hernandez, Albin and Casquero.

Osasuna 2 - Almeria 1 (La Liga, March 9, 2008)

Racing Santander 3 - Real Betis 0 (La Liga, March 9, 2008)

Albacete 1 - Real Sociedad 2 (Segunda division, March 9, 2008)

Bayer Leverkusen 2 - Hannover 0 (Bundesliga, March 9, 2008) Leverkusen maintained their charge for Champions League football thanks to first-half goals from Gekas and Barnetta.

Nurnberg 0 - Hamburg 0 (Bundesliga, March 9, 2008)

Lyon 4 - Bordeaux 2 (Ligue 1, March 9, 2008) Lyon raced into a two-goal lead at home to second-placed Bordeaux with two goals from Mathieu Bodmer. Wendel pulled one back ten minutes before the break from a free kick. Five minutes after half-time Karim Benzema re-established Lyon’s two-goal advantage. However, Laurent Blanc’s men would not give in and Cavenaghi pulled one back from the penalty spot with half-an-hour to go. Keita sealed the win with the fourth in injury-time.

Marseille 2 - St. Etienne 0 (Ligue 1, March 9, 2008) A route-one goal from Valbuena and a second from Taiwo secured victory for OM.

FC Porto 1 - Academica Coimbra 0 (Superliga, March 9, 2008) Ricardo Quaresma got the only goal from long-range in the 32nd minute.

Benfica 2 - Moreirense 0 (Superliga, March 9, 2008)

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE VIDEO GOALS

UEFA Champions League second knockout round

FC Barcelona - Celtic FC

FC Barcelona and Celtic FC want to provide another feast of UEFA Champions League football at the Camp Nou as this first knockout round, second-leg tie promises a repeat of the thriller at Celtic Park.

Firm test
In assessing the match, home coach Frank Rijkaard unhesitatingly put spectacle and entertainment on a par with the more pragmatic task of capitalising on the 3-2 lead established two weeks ago. The coach has now faced Celtic three times in UEFA competition since arriving in Barcelona in 2003 and has learned sufficient lessons not to believe, even with a healthy advantage, that the Scottish champions will be anything other than a firm test.

Thin margin
"Celtic are a really good side and I don't think there is a massive difference between us. We have a history of playing each other in recent years but, to me, it is this challenge at the Camp Nou, rather than the results of the last few years, which is important to focus on. Champions League nights at the Camp Nou really are wonderful and we love playing them. Our goal is always to give our public spectacle, great football and the right result. It's an important combination for our fans.

Undefeated record
In fact, Celtic's two previous results at Barcelona, in the 2003/04 UEFA Cup and the 2004/05 UEFA Champions League, were valiant draws. That would not be sufficient to overcome the deficit from the first match, where two terrific goals from Lionel Messi and one from Thierry Henry brought Barça back from 1-0 and 2-1 down. Yet it would allow Celtic and their large band of travelling fans to extend their notable record in Catalonia. "I am certain Celtic are preparing to put on a great performance," agreed Rijkaard. "But the Champions League is very, very important to us. We'll do our job."

Team selection
The hosts are still missing the injured Rafael Márquez and also do without Edmílson and Giovani Dos Santos – but Messi and Yaya Touré should be available. As for Gordon Strachan, the Celtic manager is fully aware that a task of immense proportions lies ahead of him and his players. Celtic have not won away in 16 UEFA Champions League matches while, in the group stage, Barcelona won all three home games with eight goals scored and only one conceded.

'Fear, determination, excitement'
"There's nothing wrong with a bit of fear," said Strachan. "It can push you on to greater things. I hope that before the match my players feel a mixture of fear, determination and excitement. When we have the ball, I'd like my players to make Barça fear us." Defender Mark Wilson, who came on after several months out injured in the first leg, is fit to feature for the Scottish title-holders who have a full complement of players.

Mountain to climb
"We are angry that individually and collectively we didn't play our best in the first game," continued Strachan. "My team must hold on to the ball better and be braver in what we do with our possession. This may be the football equivalent of climbing Everest but people have conquered Everest. It's just that some who tried didn't make it back!"

Manchester FC - O.Lyon

Old Trafford has long been one of European football's most redoubtable fortresses and Sir Alex Ferguson believes home advantage will prove telling when Manchester United FC conclude their first knockout round tie against French champions Olympique Lyonnais on Tuesday.

Cause for confidence
Carlos Tévez's 87th-minute equaliser in the sides' 1-1 draw at the Stade de Gerland leaves United favourites to reach the last eight and their record of nine successive European home wins provides extra cause for confidence. "Our home record in European football has been very good for a long time," said Sir Alex. "The atmosphere at Old Trafford on a European night helps."

Potential record
United have not lost to continental opposition at this venue since AC Milan prevailed at this stage of the 2004/05 campaign – and a victory over Lyon would see the English champions equal Juventus's record of ten consecutive home wins in the UEFA Champions League, established between 1996 and 1998. Yet while Lyon went down 2-1 on their only previous trip here in 2004, Sir Alex is wary of the attacking potential of a visiting team beaten just once in their last seven away fixtures in the competition.

'Reminds me of Zidane'
"Lyon will come knowing they have to get a goal," said the United manager, who highlighted the threat of Karim Benzema, scorer of a spectacular opener in the first leg. "He is a very strong boy, he reminds me a little bit of [Zinédine] Zidane – physique wise and possibly pace wise too. He is a natural centre-forward." Having played wide left in Lyon's last two matches, Benzema will be happy to revert to a central striking role with Fred – scorer of the only goal against LOSC Lille Métropole on Saturday – dropping to the bench.

'Have to attack'
Lyon coach Alain Perrin believes Benzema capable of playing a decisive part in a contest where, by his own admission, the balance now rests with United. "He has the ability to make the difference on his own, to create opportunities even when space is restricted," said Perrin, who did not face United during his six-month spell in England with Portsmouth FC in 2005. "We are out as things stand, so we have to attack," added Perrin, albeit with the rejoinder that dismantling the Premier League's most miserly defence would not be easy. "Their positioning is excellent and they are very experienced with players like [Rio] Ferdinand and [Nemanja] Vidić in the centre, who are good at winning their individual battles."

Tévez praised
With Ryan Giggs struggling with a calf problem, winger Nani should start and maintain his record as United's only ever-present in Europe this term. A goalless draw would be enough for United but Sir Alex, whose charges beat Fulham FC 3-0 on Saturday, promised "attacking football" and his programme notes dwelled on the influence of striker Tévez. The Argentinian is just one of the star forwards that a Lyon rearguard missing the suspended Anthony Réveillère yet featuring the fit-again Cris – fresh from his first appearance since August – will have to watch closely. "He has a knack of rising to the occasion," said the Scot, drawing comparisons with Eric Cantona.

FC Sevilla - SK Fenerbahce

Despite his team's reputation for instinctive attacking play, Sevilla FC coach Manuel Jiménez believes intelligence is the quality they will need most if they are to come back from 3-2 down to beat Fenerbahçe SK in Tuesday's UEFA Champions League first knockout round decider.

Clever football
Their delight in getting forward earned the Spanish side two valuable away goals a fortnight ago, but it also cost them dearly when substitute Semih Şentürk struck a late winner. Now, with the tie delicately poised and both teams desperate to reach the uncharted waters of the last eight, Jiménez has asked his players to think before they act. "We'll have to be intelligent because our opponents also want to qualify," he said. "It's all very well attacking, however that can rebound on you if you don't have the intelligence to stop the opposition from counterattacking. We mustn't give in to euphoria."

Knockout pedigree
That may sound like caution from the competition newcomers, but they are nothing if not knockout football specialists, having recovered 1-0 first-leg deficits en route to UEFA Cup glory in both 2005/06 and 2006/07 – against LOSC Lille Métropole and CA Osasuna respectively. "If Fenerbahçe are slight favourites because of the scoreline, we certainly don't feel inferior to them or anyone else," continued Jiménez. "We all just need to work harder because a draw won't be enough. If we can go through, it would be important not only for the club but also for the city and Spanish football."

Deportivo defeat
A record of three wins from three group-stage games at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán ought to feed their confidence, even if Saturday's 2-1 loss at RC Deportivo La Coruña ended a five-match unbeaten league run. It also dragged the club down to seventh in the Primera División, but in-form striker Luis Fabiano, Diego Capel, Seydou Keita and Adriano will all return after being rested. Centre-backs Ivica Dragutinović and Julien Escudé should be fit again too, with Aquivaldo Mosquera poised to step in if Dragutinović fails to overcome a groin problem.

Roberto Carlos absence
The Fenerbahçe rearguard is already certain to be weakened, on the other hand, as Roberto Carlos is still carrying the leg injury he sustained when the sides met in Istanbul. "He is fundamental for us because of his contribution on and off the pitch," lamented his coach, Zico. "We can't think about that, though. We have to go out and fight to the end. We won't play with a defensive attitude because we don't know how. I just don't have the players for that. They can't give up their attacking instincts."

Domestic doubts
Cynics might suggest they looked anodyne going forward in Saturday's 0-0 draw at MKE Ankaragücü, but key men Volkan Demirel, Diego, Gökhan Gönül and Semih Şentürk were all suspended while striker Deivid started on the bench. And that result could even be considered a slight improvement following last week's Turkish Cup defeat by neighbours Galatasaray AS. "That was a different competition," said Zico. "We are well-placed in this tie, we'll give everything and if we don't qualify, nobody will be able to complain. That will just mean Sevilla were the better team."

AC Milan - Arsenal FC

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti cut a relaxed figure before the make-or-break first knockout round visit of Arsenal FC as he revealed that the return of his leading lights offered plenty of cause for optimism.

Split personality
By their standards the Rossoneri have struggled in Serie A this term. On Saturday, Massimo Oddo's equaliser against S.S. Lazio gave Milan a fifth draw in six matches, leaving them 18 points behind leaders FC Internazionale Milano and four adrift of fourth-placed ACF Fiorentina – with qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League in the balance. However, if Carlo Ancelotti's side have a split personality, the pros outweigh the cons. Last year, for example, a disappointing league campaign was more than tempered by a seventh European Champion Clubs' Cup success.

'Extra special'
"It is difficult to explain why we play better in the Champions League other than to say that this competition has always meant something extra special to this club," said Ancelotti. "We've been through a sticky patch over recent games. We've had to get by without a number of players, but the fact most of them are back and have worked really well in training gives me the belief that they'll give another great performance."

Home form
Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Nesta, Andrea Pirlo, Kaká and Filippo Inzaghi are all expected to start after being rested against Lazio, although Clarence Seedorf, who strained a hamstring in the first half of that match, may join Emerson (shin), Marek Jankulovski (knee), Dida (back) and Ronaldo (knee) on the sidelines. Milan won all three group-stage games at the Giuseppe Meazza in the autumn, and knockout-stage victories here against Celtic FC, FC Bayern München and Manchester United FC last term have heartened Ancelotti.

'Patience'
"It is not by chance that we've always done well at home when we've had to," he said. "We always manage to play with the right attitude in these knockout situations. Nil-nil is a result which needs to be managed intelligently – we must call on all our skill and experience, we mustn't rush anything. In all our previous successes we managed to control the match. Patience is the key."

Van Persie boost
Arsenal may also look to bide their time as they know an away goal could suffice to see them through. As with Milan, the Gunners' domestic form has stuttered slightly, with draws against Birmingham City FC and Aston Villa FC, while injuries have deprived them of Eduardo (leg), Tomáš Rosický (hamstring) and Kolo Touré (calf). However, Abou Diaby is fit again and Robin van Persie has travelled with the squad to give the Premier League leaders what Arsène Wenger described as a "psychological edge".

Wenger belief
"We are highly focused, team spirit is very high and we believe we can do it," said Wenger. "This is a young team we have, but the foundations were laid two years ago when we went to the Santiago Bernabéu, to Juventus and we played [FC] Barcelona. These are the sort of matches that every player wants to play, and I believe what counts is to know that your side has the necessary quality to win these games. I am confident these players have the qualities to win."

Weekend Video Goals

1-1 Bayern Munich vs. Werder Bremen Highlights - MyVideo

Sudays Matches Info

Cameroon 0 - Egypt 1 (Africa Cup of Nations, February 10, 2008) After some initial sparring between the two sides, Egypt came closest to taking the lead when Moteab’s shot was saved by Kameni and Aboutrika skied the rebound over the bar. In the second-half the Pharoahs went looking for the winner, and Abd Rabou was unfortunate to see his header strike the post. But the Egyptian pressure finally paid off when sub-Zidan wrestled the ball off Song, playing in Aboutrika who slotted home the winner. Egypt retained their Africa Cup of Nations crown, celebrations here and here.

***
Manchester United 1 - Manchester City 2 (Premier League, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Darius Vassell stunned Old Trafford with the opening goal midway through the first half. Petrov played in Ireland who saw his shot saved by Van der Sar, and the former England striker placed it home on the second attempt. On the stroke of half-time Benjani got the second on his City debut, flicking on a great cross from Petrov. Michael Carrick fired one back for United in the 91st minute but City completed a league double over United for the first time since the 1969/70 season.(The minute’s silence and the events preceding the game can be seen on this video.)

Chelsea 0 - Liverpool 0 (Premier League, February 10, 2008) Peter Crouch missed a great opportunity to give Liverpool the lead at Chelsea but he dragged his shot wide, only for the beanpole to miss a header moments later. At the other end, Joe Cole had a penalty shout turned down. In a stale match, one of the highlights was referee Mike Riley falling over after getting tangled up with the ball. Ballack almost snatched the winner.

***
Aberdeen 1 - Celtic 5 (SPL, February 10, 2008) Celtic took a 3-0 lead into the break away at Aberdeen, thanks to goals from Nakamura, McGeady and McDonald (pen). McDonald scored his second three minutes into the second-half after great play by Aiden McGeady. Lee Miller pulled one back for Aberdeen. Barry Robson got the fifth from a fine free-kick.

***
Catania 0 - Inter Milan 2 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Inter’s title charge remains on course thanks to second-half goals from Cambiasso and Suazo.

Udinese 1 - Juventus 2 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.) Dossena gave Udinese the lead at home to Juve. With half-an-hour remaining Camoranesi equalised with a storming header and fifteen minutes later, Iaquinta netted the winner with his first touch.

AC Milan 1 - Siena 0 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Without Pato and Kaka, Milan struggled to find the breakthrough, but 18-year-old sub-Paloschi scored an incredible winner after only five seconds of being on the pitch. Siena had Vergassola sent off late on.

Cagliari 1 - Parma 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) The Sardinians opened the scoring as Jeda ran forward and unleashed a strike that gave the keeper no chance. Less than 60 seconds later Parma were level after Reginaldo put the ball through Storari’s legs from close range.

Sampdoria 2 - Napoli 0 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Goals from Delvecchio and Franceschini earned Mazzarri’s side the win to place them above Genoa before next week’s derby.

Livorno 1 - Genoa 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008) Tavano gave the hosts the lead on the quarter hour. Gleison saw red for the visitors with 15 minutes remaining before Marco Di Vaio hit a sweet late equaliser eight minutes from time.

Torino 3 - Palermo 1 (Serie A, February 10, 2008)

***
Real Madrid 7 - Valladolid 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Real Madrid pummeled poor Valladolid in the first-half, smashing five goals past them in the opening 45 minutes. Baptista slotted home the first, Raul rounded the keeper to make it two, Robben was given the freedom of the left hand side to add the third, Raul’s spot-kick made it four, and Guti smashed home the fifth. Guti added the sixth midway through the second period and Drenthe bagged the seventh with ten minutes to go.

Racing Santander 0 - Athletico Madrid 2 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Forlan bags a brace, the second was a cracker.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - Levante 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Llorente scored the only goal.

Mallorca 0 - Almeria 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) (Longer highlights here.)

Osasuna 1 - Zaragoza 0 (La Liga, February 10, 2008) Plasil hit thge winner on the stroke of half-time.

Espanyol 1 - Recreativo Huelva 2 (La Liga, February 10, 2008)

***
Roda 2 - Ajax 1 (Eredivisie, February 10, 2008) Lamah wriggled past four defenders before firing a shot to give Roda the lead over Ajax. But Ajax’s ever reliable goal-machine, Klass Jan Huntelaar, levelled matters after collecting the ball around the penalty spot. Hadouir headed home the winner to leave Ajax in a four way scrap for second spot.

***
Bayern Munich 1 - Werder Bremen 1 (Bundesliga, February 10, 2008) The top two in Germany couldn’t be separated, as Bayern held on to their three point lead over Bremen. Diego drew first blood for the visitors, and after Luca Toni saw his penalty saved, the onrushing Ze Roberto found the equaliser.

Borussia Dortmund 2 - Schalke 3 (Bundesliga, February 10, 2008) The Revier derby was a pulsating affair with Schalke twice taking the lead through Asamoah and an own-goal from Amedick, only for Borussia to come back each time through Federico and then Petric. Dortmund had Dede sent-off and Schalke took advantage as Ernst grabbed the winner just eight minutes from time.

***
Caen 1 - Lens 4 (Ligue 1, February 10, 2008)

***

Sertanense 0 - FC Porto 4 (Taca de Portugal, February 10, 2008)

Naval 3 - Rio Ave 1 AET (Taca de Portugal, February 10, 2008)

***
Central Coast Mariners 3 - Newcastle Jets 0 (A-League, February 10, 2008) The Mariners set up a grand final meeting against the Queensland Roar by overcoming a two-goal first leg deficit to win in extra-time. Kwasnik opened with a looping deflected shot, Petrovski netted the second from Gumprecht’s cross-come-shot, before Petrovski stole the headlines with a fine solo goal for the third.

***
FC Brussels 2 - Anderlecht 4 (Juplier League, February 9, 2008)

Club Brugge 2 - Mechelen 0 (Juplier League, February 9, 2008)

Satudays matches report

Ghana 4 - Ivory Coast 2 (Africa Cup of Nations, February 9, 2008) Sulley Muntari gave Ghana a 10th minute lead in the third place play-off with a stunning free-kick. Boubacar Sanogo equalised for the Elephants with a strong run and finish. Nine minutes later, the Werder Bremen striker scored from close range to give the Ivory Coast the lead after Drogba’s shot was saved. Five minutes after bagging the second, Sanogo then should have completed his hat-trick but he hit the bar after being played in by the Drogs. But the Black Stars drew level with a fine solo goal from Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who outpaced three defenders before coolly slotting home. The host nation then completed the comeback after Junior Agogo broke the offside trap to easily beat Kone. And the Elephants then ended the tournament on a sour note, as Kone failed to handle Dramani’s speculative shot from distance.

***

Aston Villa 4 - Newcastle 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Newcastle came flying out the traps when England U21 hero James Milner swung in a cross which England bench-warmer Michael Owen headed home under pressure from Laursen. Newcastle had Given to thank for saving Carew’s free header just before the break (first-half highlights here), but straight after the interval Given was helpless as Bouma’s deflected right-foot shot nestled in the corner. Newcastle quickly conceded the second three minutes later when Carew headed home Young’s corner, and unable to get back in the game, the sorry Toon fell to pieces from a corner which ping-ponged in the box before Carew bagged his second of the match. The humiliation was completed when Carr stupidly handballed in the box, and Carew scored his hat-trick goal from the spot. Newcastle are experiencing relegation form.

Everton 1 - Reading 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Phil Jagielka got the only goal from a deep Osman cross to send the Royals into the bottom three after their seventh consecutive league defeat.

Middlesbrough 1 - Fulham 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) A Jeremie Aliadiere goal put further distance between Boro and the drop-zone, Fulham remain deep in the mire.

Bolton 0 - Portsmouth 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Lassana Diarra scored his second goal for Pompey since joining during the January transfer window.

Derby 0 - Tottenham 3 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) The Ramos revolution continues to propel itself forward as Spurs recorded only their second away win of the season at Championship-bound Derby. A dull first-half blossomed after the break as goals from Robbie Keane (rebound), Younes Kaboul (shot following a corner) and a stoppage-time penalty from sub-Dimitar Berbatov sealed a convincing victory.

West Ham 1 - Birmingham 1 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Freddie Ljungberg scored his first goal in a year after punishing some slack defending, but Birmingham were soon level through new signing James McFadden, who scored from the spot after he was brought down by Lucas Neill. Lee Bowyer saw red late on, as Brum escaped out of the bottom three.

Sunderland 2 - Wigan 0 (Premier League, February 9, 2008) Sunderland leapfrogged the Latics in 14th place thanks to a goal in each half from Dickson Etuhu’s close-range header and sublime strike from Daryl Murphy.

***

Sevilla 1 - Barcelona 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008) Sevilla dominated the first-half at home to Barca, Diego Capel got the breakthrough ten minutes before half-time. Xavi equalised from a great through ball by Messi, Palop probably should have kept it out.

Real Murcia 0 - Villareal 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008) Guille Franco got the winner three minutes into injury-time at the end of the game.

Deportivo La Coruna 1 - Getafe 1 (La Liga, February 9, 2008)

***

Bayer Leverkusen 1 - Hamburg 1 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Van de Vaart got the opener for the away side, Friedrich equalised with half an hour to go.

Hannover 2 - Karlsruher 2 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Balitsch gave Hannover the lead in the 44th minute only to see Kennedy equalise just past the hour mark. Hajnal put Karlsruhe ahead minutes later but Rosenthal restored parity three minutes from time.

Stuttgart 1 - Hertha Berlin 3 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008) Hertha claims all three points at Stuttgart with Marko Pantelic netting a brace in the first-half. De Rafael added a third with Mario Gomez on the mark for the hosts. Delpierre was sent-off for Stuttgart late on.

Bochum 3 - Energie Cottbus 3 (Bundesliga, February 9, 2008)

***

AS Roma 2 - Reggina 0 (Serie A, February 9, 2008) Pannuci headed in at the back post from a fine Totti cross for the first, Mancini followed up on a fine run and shot from Giuly for the second.

Atalanta 2 - Fiorentina 2 (Serie A, February 9, 2008) The Viola took the lead when Pazzini controlled a pass and spun to find the far corner against his former employers. Muslimovic levelled from a corner just a minute later. Fiorentina went ahead again, Semiol headed in Kuzmanovic’s cross from the right on the hour. But Muslimovic slid home his second of the game in injury-time to end the game all square.

Messina 1 - Mantova 0 (Serie B, February 9, 2008)

Vicenza 2 - Bari 3 (Serie B, February 9, 2008)

***

Lyon 4 - Socaux 1 (Ligue 1, February 9, 2008) Bodmer got two for Lyon, the first came after two minutes the second came from a rebound off a fine Juninho free-kick. Sandiwhced between the two Lyon goals was a brilliant volleyed equaliser from Pancrate. In injury-time Govou and Benzema added some gloss to the scoreline.

***

Larissa 1 - AEK Athens 0 (Greek Super League, February 9, 2008) AEK had Alves sent-off as they fell to their second consecutive deafeat, losing to Zurawski’s first goal for Larissa since joining from Celtic.

Video Goals

Frendly Matches Info and Video Stories

England 2 - Switzerland 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) (MOTD highlights here.) England took the lead just before half-time with a goal from Jermaine Jenas, Joe Cole did brilliantly to skin his man and cross for the Spurs midfielder to finish from close range. Switzerland equalised just before the hour-mark with a fine strike from substitute Eren Derdiyok. England responded almost straight away, captain Steven Gerrard setting up Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Republic of Ireland 0 - Brazil 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Brazil had the opening effort on target against managerless Ireland when Diego fired his free-kick straight at Shay Given. Towards the end of the first-half Robinho displayed great skill to set up Josue who tested Given. Midway throught the second-half Robinho scored the only goal of the game with a lovely finish.

Italy 3 - Portugal 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Italy went one-up in injury-time of the first-half, Luca Toni scored after a number of Portugal defenders failed to clear. Five minutes into the second period Italy doubled their lead through a deflected shot from Andrea Pirlo. With twelve minutes to go, Ricardo Quaresma pulled one back for Portugal. Two minutes later Fabio Quagliarella restored Italy’s two-goal advantage.

Spain 1 - France 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Joan Capdevilla got the only goal with ten minutes remaining after Diarra had headed off the line from Iniesta. In the last minute Benzema hit the bar for France and following up Thierry Henry missed an absolute sitter.

Poland 2 - Czech Republic 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Two goals in the opening half-an-hour from Lobodzinski and Lewandowski (great finish) gave the Poles a comfortable win. Artur Boruc also saved a penalty from Jan Koller.

Turkey 0 - Sweden 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008)

Austria 0 - Germany 3 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) After a dire first-half, goals from Hitzlsperger, Klose and sub-Gomez gave Germany the win. The two sides next meet in Group B at Euro 2008.

Croatia 0 - Holland 3 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) England’s conquerers fell to an embarrassing home defeat to Marco Van Basten’s side, for whom John Heitinga and Klaas Jan Huntelaar netted at the beginning and end of the first-half while Vennegor of Hesselink added the third just before the final whistle.

Bolivia 2 - Peru 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) In a comment on South American defending, all three goals were headers from set-plays.

Macedonia 1 - Serbia 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008)

Hungary 1 - Slovakia 1 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Zoltan Gera’s header from a corner was cancelled out by Sestak.

Israel 1 - Romania 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Israel recorded a morale-boosting victory over Romania, who were reduced to 10-men after Ovidiu Petre was sent off after 20 minutes, thanks to Omer Golan’s header.

United States 2 - Mexico 2 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Oguchi Onyewu’s towering back-post header gave the hosts the lead, but Magallon’s first goal for Mexico tied the score five minutes later. Highly-regarded starlet Jozy Altidore, then restored America’s lead, only to have Magallon net his second of the game just after the break.

Argentina 5 - Guatemala 0 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Fielding a predominately young side in preparation for the under-23 competition at August’s Olympic Games, Gonzalo Higuain netted a brace (second goal here) whilst Ezequiel Lavezzi, Jonatan Maidana (great strike) and Marco Ruben added the other goals in the Argentinean rout, marking the first meeting between the two nations.

Uruguay 2 - Colombia 2 (International friendly, February 6, 2008) Edison Perea scored a goal in each half to put Colombia in the driving seat. But the introduction of Edinson Cavani for Diego Forlan reaped immediate benefits with the striker pulling the a goal back before Suarez completed the comeback with a late equaliser.

JANUARY FOOTBALL NEWS

ENGLAND

Blackburn relief over Newcastle's Keegan appointment
Villa celebrate new Laursen deal
Bolton land Portsmouth's Taylor
Fulham agree fee for Watford's King
O'Leary rejects Republic of Ireland job
Spurs target Fred staying with Lyon
Everton announce accepting Birmingham offer for McFadden
Edman claims Wigan agreement
Spurs join Arsenal interest for Catania's Vargas
Villa boss O'Neill in talks with Tottenham's Defoe
Liverpool agent denies link for Fiorentina coach Prandelli
Portsmouth, Spurs battle for Mallorca star Jonas
Juventus want immediate deal for Villa's Mellberg

ITALIA

AC Milan, Fiorentina chiefs discuss Gilardino, Frey swap
Ronaldo helping Juventus win Amauri race
Udinese's Quagliarella back on Inter Milan radar
Juventus to bring forward plans for Palermo's Barzagli
Inter Milan tracking Corinthians defender Renato
Agent: Zambrotta will only leave Barcelona for AC Milan
Fiorentina intensify talks for Sturm Graz's Proedel
Porto's Gonzalez keen on Fiorentina move
Parma's Dessena interesting Napoli
Belenenses defender Rolando hoping for quick Lazio move
Genoa welcome Corinthians striker Wilson
Reggina wrap up signing of Palermo's Brienza
Siena sign Levante striker Rigano
Parma youngster Paci fractures jaw
Nike back Inter Milan bid for Barcelona's Ronaldinho
Inter Milan seek their own Pato
Fiorentina keep tabs on Gilardino's AC Milan situation
Roma check on Lille starlet Salibur

SPAIN

Deco: Barcelona future decided at season's end
Vazquez: Pinto genuine threat to Barcelona No1 Valdes
Zigic winning Koeman around at Valencia
Manzano blasts Real Madrid's Schuster: Show some humility
Mijatovic insists Real Madrid can be happy despite Copa exit
Barcelona agree terms for Celta Vigo's Pinto
PSG starlet Arnaud reveals Barcelona offer
Deportivo La Coruna players discuss Munua, Dudu futures
Calderon: Casillas would make great Real Madrid president
Benfica, Besiktas move for Recreativo's Beto
Poli Ejido snap up Valladolid striker Kike
Agent reveals Deportivo La Coruna offer for River Plate's Ruben
Chevanton slams ex-Sevilla coach Ramos
Agent rules out Argentina return for Zaragoza's D'Alessandro
Deportivo La Coruna, Sevilla go for Santos star Maldonado
Baptista delighted with Real Madrid breakthrough
Real Madrid coach Schuster keen on Juventus outcast Tiago
Jorquera backs Barcelona's Pinto move