UCL corner

• iveco

  14 Sep 05, 13:04

  Lethal Lyon dismantle Madrid
  Tuesday, 13 September 2005
  by Matthew Spiro
  from Stade Gerland
  
  Olympique Lyonnais started their UEFA Champions League campaign in superb fashion as an impressive first-half display earned a 3-0 Group F success against Real Madrid CF.
  
  Devastating display
  Quarter-finalists for the last two years, Lyon have high hopes of going even further this season, and on the basis of this performance they have every reason to feel optimistic. Gérard Houllier's team showed great skill and determination, sealing the victory with three goals in a devastating first 45 minutes. John Carew opened the scoring before strikes from Juninho Pernambucano and Sylvain Wiltord took the game away from Madrid, who also suffered a 3-0 reverse at Bayer 04 Leverkusen on Matchday 1 last term.
  
  Beckham boost
  Lyon centre-half Cris passed a late fitness test to take his place alongside Claudio Caçapa at the back, while Tiago was preferred to Benoît Pedretti in midfield. Carew began as a lone forward, flanked by Wiltord and Florent Malouda. The visitors also received a fitness boost, with David Beckham recovering from a thigh problem. Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo were missing through injury and suspension respectively, so Julio César Baptista stepped into the playmaker role behind strikers Raúl González and Robinho.
  
  Frenetic pace
  The match kicked off at a frantic pace and Lyon were quickly on the attack, Carew running at the Madrid defence before seeing his shot blocked by Iván Helguera. The Spanish side were soon in the game, however, and twice threatened from free-kicks in the opening eight minutes. While the first effort from Beckham grazed Grégory Coupet's right-hand post, Roberto Carlos's strike then flashed slightly wider of the same upright.
  
  Carew breakthrough
  As Madrid controlled possession, Lyon seemed content to defend in numbers and pick their moment to counterattack. Roberto Carlos saw another long-range attempt well saved by Coupet, but when the breakthrough came, it was at the other end. Set-piece specialist Juninho curled a wicked free-kick towards goal and Carew's glancing header was enough to beat Iker Casillas, who could only push the ball into the roof of the net.
  
  Deadly Juninho
  Madrid almost silenced the stadium moments later as Baptista deflected a Roberto Carlos shot on to the post, then Raúl headed the rebound straight at Coupet. Before the visitors had time for regret, they were two down. Again Juninho did the damage, this time the Brazilian firing a free-kick directly into Casillas's bottom right-hand corner on 26 minutes.
  
  Rampant Lyon
  Lyon were rampant and scored a third five minutes later, as Wiltord exchanged passes with Anthony Réveillère on the right before volleying emphatically past Casillas. The French champions should have extended their lead further but Juninho, after being fouled in the area by Míchel Salgado, saw his spot-kick blocked by Casillas. Madrid came close to pulling a goal back before half-time through Robinho, but Coupet produced an exceptional stop to tip the Brazilian's low shot wide.
  
  Coupet called upon
  Madrid started the second period with a more offensive formation, as Baptista moved into attack and Roberto Carlos and Salgado switched to wing-backs. Coupet was soon in the thick of the action, catching Baptista's volley, then parrying Roberto Carlos's stinging drive. The France custodian saved his team again on the hour, blocking Raúl's attempt after the striker had been played through by Robinho.
  
  Stout defending
  Coupet's assurance seemed to filter through to his team-mates and, after impressive approach work, Juninho burst into the right side of the Madrid box and drew a fine save from Casillas with a low shot. Madrid continued to press, but Cris and Caçapa were in determined mood and Lyon ultimately held firm without any real alarm.
  
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• iveco

  14 Sep 05, 13:05

  Liverpool savour flying start
  Tuesday, 13 September 2005
  by Simon Hart
  from Estadio Manuel Ruiz de Lopera
  
  A blistering start by Liverpool FC ensured they took all three points from their opening UEFA Champions League Group G game away to Real Betis Balompié, goals inside the first quarter-hour from Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Luis García earning the holders a 2-1 win.
  
  Daunting start
  Although the Spanish side fought back with a 51st-minute goal from Arzu, they were unable to complete the comeback. Facing the European champions on their tournament debut was a daunting beginning for a team whose starting XI included only one player, Marcos Assunção, with previous Champions League experience, and they could not have got off to a worse start.
  
  Early goal
  By the second minute they were already a goal behind as Sinama-Pongolle struck. Jamie Carragher lofted a high ball towards Peter Crouch and with the tall target man distracting the home defence, Sinama-Pongolle took advantage to lift a delightful lob over Antonio Doblas from the edge of the box.
  
  Swarming forward
  Eyebrows were raised when Rafael Benítez spent upwards of €10m on Crouch in the summer but in the opening stages of his Champions League bow the 24-year-old gave some indication of his worth. For much of last season Liverpool struggled on their travels yet here Crouch provided an important outlet, holding the ball up while the trio of García, Boudewijn Zenden and Sinama-Pongolle swarmed forward around him.
  
  García goal
  Three of those players were involved in the Reds' second goal on 14 minutes. Crouch slipped a pass through to Zenden who, breaking down the inside-left channel, crossed low to García. The Spaniard got there ahead of David Rivas and directed a first-time shot inside Doblas's near post. Having made their way through three qualifying rounds, Liverpool had begun the competition proper like the European champions they are - and this with Steven Gerrard on the bench.
  
  Reina involved
  Suddenly it was very quiet inside the Estadio Manuel Ruiz de Lopera but Betis kept at it. Fernando had already missed one presentable opportunity at 1-0 down - delaying his shot in front of José Manuel Reina, allowing Djimi Traoré time to make a sliding block - and further chances followed. In the 21st minute, the Brazilian Ricardo Oliveira skipped past Sami Hyypiä and tested Reina with a low shot. Then, following a half-cleared corner, Oliveira crossed back into the danger zone where Reina saved bravely at the feet of Juanito Gutiérrez.
  
  Ferrer change
  On 35 minutes Betis coach Llorenc Serra Ferrer sent on another striker, the talismanic Dani, in place of Fernando and moments later the Andalusians created another opening, Arzu slipping the ball through to Fernando Varela but again Reina was there to make the stop. After a nightmare start to the first period, Betis gave themselves hope six minutes into the second when Arzu struck, flicking the ball through Reina's legs after Dani's pass had put him through.
  
  Uncomfortable spell
  It was now all Betis and Liverpool had to survive an uncomfortable spell as the hosts pressed for a second. Survive they did, albeit without displaying any of the attacking threat they had shown before the break. Indeed, despite the visitors' introduction of Djibril Cissé, John Arne Riise and Gerrard, one scuffed effort by Riise was all Doblas had to contend with in the second half.
  
  Dead-ball specialist
  Betis, for their part, were creating only half-chances. Reina tipped one Oliveira header over the bar, then Joaquín Sánchez scuffed a shot wide before the Spain winger weaved his way past three red shirts and crossed to the far post where, with the angle tight, substitute Xisco Muñoz fired into the side-netting. One further scare followed for Liverpool when dead-ball specialist Assunção lined up a free-kick 20 metres from goal but Reina saved comfortably.
  
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• iveco

  14 Sep 05, 13:06

  Rangers hold off Porto push
  Tuesday, 13 September 2005
  by Alex O'Henley
  from Ibrox
  
  Rangers FC got their Group H campaign off to a winning start with an exhilarating 3-2 success against 2004 UEFA Champions League winners FC Porto in Glasgow.
  
  Kyrgiakos decisive
  Portuguese defender Pepe appeared to have given Porto a share of the spoils with two goals after Peter Løvenkrands and Dado Pršo had twice put the home side ahead, but Sotirios Kyrgiakos gave Rangers maximum points with a headed goal five minutes from time.
  
  Three changes
  After a disappointing 1-1 draw with Falkirk FC at the weekend, Rangers manager Alex McLeish made three changes: former Newcastle United FC left-back Olivier Bernard made his debut, Francis Jeffers started for the first time since his loan move from Charlton Athletic FC, and Løvenkrands began on the left of midfield. Porto coach Co Adriaanse kept faith with his favoured 4-3-3 formation, and it was the visitors who were the quicker into their stride.
  
  Porto pressure
  Brazilian forwards Alan and Jorginho threatened in the first five minutes with the latter forcing goalkeeper Ronald Waterreus to punch a corner off his line. The home team initially struggled for possession as Diego dictated the tempo for the visitors, although Jeffers almost opened the scoring on 14 minutes when he collected a Løvenkrands cross, only for a heavy first touch to allow Porto captain Pedro Emanuel to clear the danger.
  
  Pršo opportunity
  At the other end, Ricardo Costa passed up another good opportunity after he got on the end of César Peixoto's left-wing centre, the full-back lifting his shot wastefully over. Alan went close again on 21 minutes, drifting past two defenders before firing in a shot that required a last-minute block to divert the ball for a corner. Pršo was then presented with a chance after Porto goalkeeper Vítor Baía misjudged a clearance, but the Croatian was unable to capitalise.
  
  Løvenkrands opener
  Jorginho seemed certain to break the deadlock just before the half-hour when he surged into the box only to be denied by a well-judged challenge from Waterreus. Ten minutes before half-time, a goal did arrive – and, against the run of play, it was Rangers that registered. Løvenkrands reacted quickest to a long ball from Fernando Ricksen and kept his head to fire past Vítor Baía. Porto suffered another blow before the break when Emanuel was substituted following a clash of heads with Pršo.
  
  Rangers revival
  The goal seemed to settle the hosts but they found themselves pegged back two minutes into the second half. Hamed Namouchi conceded a corner and when the ball was swung in, Pepe rose highest to head past Waterreus. The visitors should have been ahead six minutes later when Tomislav Šokota pounced on a loose ball but again the Dutch keeper smothered his effort. Instead Rangers broke to the other end and promptly regained their advantage. Ricksen crossed from the right, Kyrgiakos and Namouchi combined to turn the ball back across goal and Pršo bundled it over the line.
  
  Late drama
  Adriaanse made a double substitution as the game entered the final quarter and one of the replacements, Ricardo Quaresma, almost scored after a defensive mix-up from a corner. It was a warning Rangers failed to heed and with 19 minutes remaining, Pepe capitalised on more hesitant defending to usher the ball into the net. Just as it seemed both sides would have to settle for one point, however, Kyrgiakos's clever back-header evaded Vítor Baía and finally settled an eventful encounter in the home team's favour.
  
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• iveco

  14 Sep 05, 13:09

  PSV shackle Schalke fightback
  Tuesday, 13 September 2005
  by Derek Brookman
  from Philips stadium
  
  PSV Eindhoven did enough to indicate that last year's run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals was no fluke, with a hard-fought victory over FC Schalke 04 in the Netherlands.
  
  Schalke struggle
  Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink headed the only goal of the Group E encounter in the 33rd minute, meeting DaMarcus Beasley's in-swinging corner with a powerful back-post header that left goalkeeper Frank Rost helpless. The Dutch side had opportunities to double the lead before Schalke came back strongly in the second half but couldn't break PSV down.
  
  Attacking intent
  PSV, with Theo Lucius and Eric Addo slotting into a reorganised defence, started with 19-year old Ibrahim Afellay on the right of midfield, while Vennegoor of Hesselink was used as a lone striker. Schalke's lineup looked more adventurous, with Lincoln occupying a floating role in front of a four-man midfield, behind forwards Ebbe Sand and Kevin Kuranyi.
  
  Rost roused
  The game nevertheless began conservatively, with both teams keen to give nothing away; defending in numbers and building steadily. Indeed, 15 minutes had gone by the time a cross-cum-shot from PSV's Belgian international Timmy Simons forced Schalke custodian Rost into his first save, tipping over at the expense of a corner. Two minutes later Jefferson Farfán shot weakly at Rost from a good position.
  
  Deadlock broken
  The chances awakened PSV, who started to push forward more, but the final ball continually let them down, their lack of incisiveness allowing Schalke to soak up the pressure. But the deadlock was broken just after the half-hour, and like so often during PSV's 2004/05 campaign, it came from a dead ball.
  
  Schalke fightback
  PSV began piling on the pressure. Beasley almost made it two but his free-kick was touched over by Rost, and the keeper then had to clear hastily as Vennegoor of Hesselink homed in on a loose pass. Five minutes before half-time Phillip Cocu hit the side-netting with a long-range effort and having survived until the interval only a goal down, Schalke kicked off the second half firmly on the front foot.
  
  Defensive error
  Lincoln fired a 49th-minute free-kick just over but it took an error from the hosts for Schalke to really threaten an equaliser, as Marcelo Bordon seized on a lax back-pass from Michael Reiziger to feed Ebbe Sand who headed over from close range. Strike partner Kuranyi volleyed high and wide a few minutes later as the visitors upped the ante.
  
  Gomes troubled
  Schalke brought on Søren Larsen for fellow Dane Sand in the 71st minute and he almost made an immediate impact, setting Kuranyi clear but the German international was denied by the onrushing Heurelho Gomes. The Brazilian keeper then pushed away a drive by Hamit Altintop at full stretch, and at the other end, Afellay had a wonderful opportunity to seal victory with seven minutes remaining but dithered and his poorly-struck attempt was easily stopped by Rost.
  
  Larsen header
  Larsen almost headed a late leveller but, under pressure, he could not direct his effort on target as PSV held on to open their Group E campaign with a hard-fought success.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  15 Sep 05, 19:08

  Juve start in familiar fashion
  Wednesday, 14 September 2005
  by David Minton
  from Jan Breydel Stadion
  
  Italian champions Juventus FC began their UEFA Champions League Group A campaign in fine fashion with a 2-1 win at Club Brugge KV.
  
  Second-half strikes
  The visitors created enough opportunities to have won more comfortably, but in the event Pavel Nedvìd's free-kick and David Trezeguet's exquisite lob - his 100th strike for the Bianconeri - proved sufficient. Fabio Capello's side were made to sweat late on though, as Jeanvion Yulu-Matondo pulled a goal back and Patrick Vieira was sent off.
  
  Three changes
  The hosts made three changes to the team that overcame K. Sint Truidense VV on Saturday. Joos Valgaeren, Yulu-Matondo and Günther Vanaudenaerde came into the side as coach Jan Ceulemans opted for a 3-4-3 system. Juventus, who brought in Manuele Blasi at full-back in place of the injured Gianluca Pessotto, were intent on getting numbers forward from the off.
  
  Stijnen confidence
  Indeed they started brightly: Nedvìd shooting centimetres over Stijn Stijnen's crossbar and the same player's volley forcing a fine save from a goalkeeper showing no sign of nerves on his Champions League debut. Stijnen barely had time to compose himself before denying Trezeguet from close range. The chances continued to come for the away team, summer signing Vieira having an effort cleared off the line in the 17th minute. Club Brugge's best hope seemed to lie in set-pieces, Olivier De Cock heading wide from a corner as the Belgian champions threatened for the first time.
  
  Portillo opening
  That opening helped Club Brugge grow in confidence and after Juventus's Christian Abbiati had failed to claim a 31st-minute corner, they would have taken the lead against the run of play had Javier Portillo been able to control the loose ball at the far post. There were now opportunities at either end, and Trezeguet went close to breaking the deadlock when, after a clever near-post run enabled him to reach Blasi's right-wing delivery, his attempt came back off the upright. Stijnen then produced two more fine stops from the Frenchman to keep the half-time score blank.
  
  Nedvìd brilliance
  As the second period began the Jan Breydel Stadion found its voice and the home side enjoyed increasing amounts of possession, Sven Vermant drilling a low shot fractionally wide. Jonathan Blondel, on for Portillo, and Yulu-Matondo assumed more defensive responsibilities as Club Brugge switched to 3-6-1, reverting to their starting template on the break. Just as they started to look more secure, however, they fell behind to a fine Nedvìd set-piece six minutes past the hour. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was fouled by Valgaeren outside the area, and the former Czech international curled a low effort round the wall and just inside Stijnen's left-hand post.
  
  Exquisite finish
  The youngster was involved again five minutes later, saving with his feet from Ibrahimovic. There was nothing Stijnen could do, though, as Trezeguet doubled Juve's lead in the 75th minute. Mauro Camoranesi was the architect, producing a perfectly-weighted chip for the striker's diagonal run, which Trezeguet matched with a superb lob. Ibrahimovic, who could have had a hat-trick, then thumped a shot that Stijnen did well to parry at the near post.
  
  Late hope
  That save looked crucial five minutes from time when Blondel's mis-kick, after Juventus had failed to deal with a corner, proved to be the perfect cross for Yulu-Matondo to mark his debut with a headed goal that renewed Club Brugge hope. That was further boosted a minute from time as Vieira was sent off for a second bookable offence, but the visitors held firm for a fine win.
  
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• iveco

  15 Sep 05, 19:09

  Sneijder laughs last for Ajax
  Wednesday, 14 September 2005
  by Sam Beckwith
  from Sparta stadium
  
  Wesley Sneijder's strike a minute into added time cancelled out Miroslav Matušoviè's opener to earn AFC Ajax a draw at AC Sparta Praha in the opening round of fixtures in UEFA Champions League Group B.
  
  Spectacular strikes
  Sparta substitute Matušoviè seemed to have punished the Dutch visitors for their failure to capitalise on a string of first-half opportunities when he put the Czech side ahead with a blistering shot six minutes past the hour. Just as the points appeared to be within Sparta's reach, however, Sneijder ruined the party with an equally spectacular equaliser.
  
  Familiar faces
  Ajax coach Danny Blind fielded an unchanged team, the visitors lining up in an attacking 4-3-3 formation which featured the Czech contingent, TomᚠGalásek and Zdenìk Grygera, facing several international team-mates. Sparta coach Jaroslav Hrebík went for a 4-3-2-1, spearheaded by lone forward Miroslav Slepièka. Steven Pienaar's clever interplay with Swedish international Markus Rosenberg caused immediate concern for Sparta, while at the other end Slepièka failed to connect with Karol Kisel's dangerous centre from the right.
  
  Ajax on top
  Sneijder had the first sight of goal, forcing Jaromír Blažek into action to keep out his powerful effort from the left, the Sparta custodian reacting smartly to prevent the predatory Pienaar from turning in the rebound. Ajax continued to pose Sparta problems as the half progressed, with Dutch international Sneijder's lively presence providing a potent threat and young striker Ryan Babel showing occasional flashes of brilliance.
  
  Rosenborg denied
  Ajax's threat kept on growing and Rosenberg was a whisker away from securing the advantage as he narrowly failed to touch in Pienaar's deft right-wing delivery. Sparta, increasingly pinned back in their own half, struggled to contain the Eredivisie outfit's effervescent attack and their own forays into Ajax territory became infrequent, causing frustration among the home fans.
  
  Sparta fight back
  However, in one of those rare incursions, Karel Poborský created a half-chance for LukᚠZelenka but the curly-haired midfielder powered the ball over the bar. The best openings carried on coming Ajax's way, though, and minutes later, Sneijder found Rosenberg in space on the left. The Swede, cutting in, fired just wide of Blažek's post. As the interval approached, Sparta finally imposed themselves, breaking up Ajax's fluent play and drawing their sting in midfield. Three minutes after the restart, Sparta replaced Slepièka with Matušoviè, a switch that was to prove significant.
  
  Matušoviè goes close
  Shortly after, Sparta were nearly caught out by a speculative ball from Ajax's defence that forced Blažek to head half-clear from the edge of his box, with Sneijder subsequently shooting narrowly wide. Yet that was an isolated incident, as Sparta looked the more dangerous team and went close to taking the lead when Matušoviè's long-range effort bounced off the foot of the post and was scrambled away by Hans Vonk.
  
  Long-range efforts
  Suitably encouraged, Sparta pushed forward and were in front within seconds. Ajax failed to clear a corner and the ball fell to Matušoviè on the right of the area, and his 25-metre drive screamed into the top corner. Babel almost levelled for Ajax, his shot from outside the box beating Blažek but crashing against a post.
  
  Last-gasp leveller
  Spurred into action, Blind threw on Greece striker Angelos Charisteas and the positive approach brought reward in added time. Sneijder had been finding his range all evening, but finally produced a telling attempt when it mattered most, his powerful strike from 20 metres evading Blažek's clutches and rescuing a point for the visitors.
  
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• iveco

  15 Sep 05, 19:11

  Iaquinta gives Udinese dream debut
  Wednesday, 14 September 2005
  by Richard Aikman
  from Udine
  
  A hat-trick by Vincenzo Iaquinta gave Udinese Calcio a perfect start to their debut UEFA Champions League campaign with a convincing win against Panathinaikos FC at the Friuli stadium.
  
  Vidigal in
  The Italian international scored once in the first half and twice in the second to put Serse Cosmi's side top of Group C after one game. Cosmi made one change from the team that overcame AS Roma in Serie A on Sunday, reverting from the three-pronged attack deployed at the Stadio Olimpico to a 4-4-2 formation with midfielder Vidigal included at the expense of forward Davide Di Michele.
  
  Key absences
  Panathinaikos adopted an even more cautious approach as coach Alberto Malesani sought to cope with key absences from his side. Suspension and injury had claimed the services of Dimitrios Papadopoulos, Emmanuel Olisadebe and Flavio Conceição so the Italian opted for five in midfield and Sándor Torghelle alone up front.
  
  Fans' welcome
  Udinese were greeted on to the pitch by a cleverly-choreographed Curva Nord, holding aloft thousands of placards of Champions League footballs to symbolise both their arrival on the ultimate football stage and their home colours of black and white.
  
  Spurned chances
  The hosts' first chance to take the lead came on the quarter-hour when the excellent Antonio Di Natale put Iaquinta through with a lofted pass. Iaquinta's first touch was poor, forcing him left and his attempted lob was easily taken by goalkeeper Mario Galinović. Four minutes later, the 25-year-old spurned another opening, heading over Vincent Candela's swerving cross.
  
  Firm header
  In the 28th minute it was third time lucky for Iaquinta. In a sweeping move Di Natale released Damiano Zenoni down the left wing and his centre was met with a firm header by the powerful striker.
  
  Neat passing
  Although they passed the ball neatly, with Constantinos Charalambides, Ezequiel González and Nordin Wooter combining well, the Greek side struggled with the final ball and only really threatened at set-pieces. Indeed, González clipped a post from a free-kick with Morgan De Sanctis beaten.
  
  Mazy run
  But it was De Sanctis's opposite number who was the busier of the two keepers. Di Natale was denied after 36 minutes when his mazy run resulted in a fine stop by Galinović. Vidigal's snapshot was also repelled by the Croatian.
  
  Attacking approach
  After the break the visitors came out with more attacking intent as they sought to get back into the match. Wooter turned Felipe outside the area before forcing a save from De Sanctis. Torghelle then tried his luck from 18 metres following a quickly taken free-kick but failed to direct his shot.
  
  Full advantage
  As Malesani's men pressed forward, so they became exposed at the back and it was Iaquinta who took full advantage. The balance of the game turned decisively in favour of Udinese in the 73rd minute when Iaquinta raced on to another Di Natale pass with the Greeks caught looking for offside. He took the ball around Galinović and rolled it into an empty net.
  
  Treble completed
  Two minutes later, Iaquinta celebrated a dream start to his Champions League career, turning to steer a fierce drive past Galinović. In fact, the last ten minutes witnessed a complete siege of the visitors' goal and only a desperate clearance by Panathinaikos captain Ioannis Goumas prevented Iaquinta registering a fourth.
  
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• iveco

  15 Sep 05, 19:13

  Villarreal make solid start
  Wednesday, 14 September 2005
  by Graham Hunter
  from El Madrigal
  
  Villarreal CF made a solid debut in the UEFA Champions League by holding their vastly more experienced Group D rivals Manchester United FC to an entertaining, but goalless, draw.
  
  Rooney off
  The home team could even have taken all three points against opponents who played the last 26 minutes with ten men following the dismissal of Wayne Rooney for two yellow cards in quick succession. Villarreal pressed the visitors back for much of the final 20 minutes, but eventually had to settle for a stalemate.
  
  Riquelme ruled out
  Villarreal coach Manuel Luis Pellegrini chose not to gamble on Juan Román Riquelme's ankle ligament strain, instead opting for Héctor Font on the right of midfield and the Spaniard took to the task with relish, causing the visitors difficulties in and around Edwin van der Sar's penalty area throughout the first period. United, meanwhile, opted to play with only three in midfield - Paul Scholes, Darren Fletcher and Alan Smith – plus three forwards. Inevitably the game was extremely open as a result and kept the capacity crowd enthused throughout.
  
  Early opportunities
  However, Sir Alex Ferguson's side showed their experience and while Villarreal pushed forward consistently, it was United who looked more likely to score first in the early exchanges. An eleventh-minute deflection off Marcos Senna's boot left the ball tantalisingly in the path of Cristiano Ronaldo, restored to the team after a family bereavement, but Mario Sebastián Viera rushed out to smother. The Uruguayan goalkeeper then produced a fine diving save to keep out Mikaël Silvestre's downward header from Scholes's corner.
  
  Crucial clearance
  Ten minutes later United had to make their first change when Gabriel Heinze, who had been carrying an ankle injury, collided with Jan Kromkamp. Kieran Richardson replaced him and instantly created danger, winning a free-kick from Gonzalo Rodríguez. Viera failed to gather the ensuing set-piece and, with the keeper helpless, Ruud van Nistelrooij looked certain to register – only for Gonzalo to clear centimetres in front of an unguarded net with an acrobatic overhead kick.
  
  Superb stop
  If United could count themselves unlucky on that occasion, Van der Sar had already been forced into a world-class stop to keep the scores blank. Antonio Guayre's run and clever cross was ingeniously flicked on by Juan Pablo Sorín's heel and Rodolfo Arruabarrena's firm volley looked destined for the back of the net, only for the Dutch international to spring across his goal and prevent his team falling behind.
  
  Viera excellence
  Against his former club, Villarreal striker Diego Forlán was starved of clear chances but from Sorín's 50th-minute pass he curved a right-footed effort narrowly wide. Then the engaging duel between Viera and Van Nistelrooij had its second episode when, from Ronaldo's header, the Dutchman swivelled and shot from four metres out but the custodian again blocked superbly.
  
  Rooney sees red
  The match was becoming increasingly fractious, with a flurry of fouls and yellow cards breaking up the play. The period culminated in the dismissal of Rooney four minutes past the hour. The English international was shown a yellow card for fouling Quique �lvarez and reacted by sarcastically applauding the referee's decision, which brought a second booking.
  
  Fortunate escape
  The home side strove to make the numerical advantage count in the closing stages and came closest when Senna's free-kick was deflected against his own crossbar by Rio Ferdinand. Although they were unable to fashion a breakthrough, Villarreal still have every reason to be satisfied with their night's work.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  28 Sep 05, 18:03

  Bayern launch Arena with victory
  Tuesday, 27 September 2005
  by Andreas Alf
  from München Arena
  
  FC Bayern München secured a second straight 1-0 win in Group A, but profligate finishing and a lack of attacking ambition kept the German title-holders sweating until the end in the first UEFA Champions League game at the München Arena.
  
  Profligate finishing
  Argentinian anchorman Martin Demichelis scored the only goal, prodding high into the net on 32 minutes, but the scoreline fails accurately to convey the measure of dominance Bayern enjoyed. Roy Makaay, Michael Ballack and José Paolo Guerrero all failed to convert good chances to double the lead.
  
  Guerrero partners Makaay
  With Owen Hargreaves, Ali Karimi and Claudio Pizarro sidelined, Bayern coach Felix Magath had to shuffle his pack. Young Peruvian Guerrero partnered Makaay up front, while Roque Santa Cruz claimed a place among the substitutes despite being dogged by injury.
  
  Midfield congestion
  Club Brugge coach Jan Ceulemans also had injury concerns with Michael Klukowski, Günther Vanaudenaerde and Joos Valgaeren ruled out. Croatian forward Boško Balaban shouldered the bulk of the goalscoring burden, as a change from a 4-3-3 to a 3-4-3 formation forced on-loan striker Javier Portillo on to the bench.
  
  Crowd lift Bayern
  Bayern struggled to find any rhythm early on due to Club Brugge flooding the midfield, often with six players in the centre as the wingers tracked back diligently. Home defender Valérien Ismaël had the first opportunity, heading centimetres wide yet succeeding in increasing the volume in an already cacophonous München Arena.
  
  Kahn reflexes
  Balaban could have shocked Magath's men moments later, though. The forward was played in by Ivan Leko's precise cross from the left and Ismaël's slip, but failed to put enough power on the shot and allowed Oliver Kahn to deny him with a smart save. At the other end, Ballack's free-kick had Club Brugge hearts in mouths, but bent just wide with goalkeeper Tomislav Butina a spectator.
  
  Demichelis opener
  Inspired by Zé Roberto on the left wing, the hosts increased the pressure, before Demichelis gave Bayern supporters genuine reason to raise the roof just after the half-hour. The Argentinian reacted quickest when Butina missed Zé Roberto's corner, flicking out his right boot to fire into the roof of the net from close range, despite being surrounded by defenders.
  
  Ballack finds range
  After the break, the Bundesliga leaders continued to attack and seemed eager to make the points safe. Ballack began to exert more influence, seeing more of the ball and bringing his colleagues into play, and shot narrowly wide from the edge of the box on 48 minutes.
  
  Defensive reshuffle
  Shortly afterwards, Mehmet Scholl replaced the injured Bixente Lizarazu, taking up a midfield position while Bastian Schweinsteiger slotted into the Frenchman's left-back role. The reorganisation may have caused some unusually slack Bayern defending, as Balaban went close again by firing just wide.
  
  Scholl influence
  Scholl quickly made his presence felt, curling a peach of a free-kick towards the top-left corner from 25 metres, only to see Butina claw it brilliantly away. Yet the visitors continued to trouble Bayern with their counterattacking play, and Ballack and Willy Sagnol were booked trying to break up Club Brugge raids.
  
  Tempo slowed
  But the Belgian side never really looked like scoring, and Bayern successfully slowed the game in a pedestrian final ten minutes. They share top spot with next opponents Juventus FC on six points, while Club Brugge and Matchday 3 rivals SK Rapid Wien have yet to get off the mark.
  
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• iveco

  28 Sep 05, 18:04

  Pirès leaves Arsenal purring
  Tuesday, 27 September 2005
  by John Atkin
  from Amsterdam ArenA
  
  Goals from Fredrik Ljungberg and Robert Pirès earned Arsenal FC an impressive 2-1 win at AFC Ajax, a result which leaves the visitors firmly in control of UEFA Champions League Group B.
  
  Two-goal cushion
  Ljungberg put the English side in front as early as the second minute, and when Pirès doubled the lead from the penalty spot midway through the second half the three points looked assured. Markus Rosenberg pulled a goal back almost immediately, but Arsène Wenger's team survived the final 19 minutes for a victory which gives them a three-point cushion at the top of the table.
  
  Key absentees
  Arsenal went into the game with question marks over their scoring ability with Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry sidelined and Robin van Persie suspended. Wenger therefore opted for the experimental pairing of José Antonio Reyes and Ljungberg, and within two minutes of kick-off, the ploy had paid off.
  
  Rapid attack
  Matthieu Flamini capitalised on some hesitancy in the Ajax back line to feed Reyes, whose first-time pass found Ljungberg in space. The Swedish international had only the goalkeeper to beat and did so with typical aplomb, adroitly chipping Hans Vonk to register Arsenal's 100th Champions League goal. It was the worst possible start for a makeshift home side, for whom Wesley Sneijder had become the latest addition to a lengthy injury list with a hamstring problem. In the absence of their fulcrum, Ajax's three-man midfield struggled to impose themselves.
  
  Three-pronged attack
  Instead, the onus fell on the three-pronged attack of Ryan Babel, Nourdin Boukhari and Angelos Charisteas, but although all worked early openings, only the third-named forced a save from Manuel Almunia, deputising for the suspended Jens Lehmann in the Arsenal goal. Wenger's men sat back, content to strike on the break, and only poor control prevented the nimble Ljungberg from making the most of more tentative defending from Thomas Vermaelen.
  
  Bridging the past
  Vermaelen typified his team's gauche first-half performance as he failed to assert himself against the canny visitors. It was announced last week that 12 bridges in a new park around Ajax's former De Meer home will be named after the side that monopolised the European Champion Clubs' Cup from 1971-73. On the early evidence here, it could be some time before the bridges that snake the River Amstel outside the ArenA carry the identities of the current squad.
  
  Ajax ascendancy
  Steven Pienaar ventured forward as the half wore on, but missed a gilt-edged chance on the stroke of half-time after good work from Boukhari. The striker ghosted past Ashley Cole, drew Almunia and squared to Pienaar but with the goal at his mercy, the South African blazed over. It was nevertheless a welcome lift, and Ajax started the second period firmly on the front foot.
  
  Narrow misses
  Babel and Nigel de Jong flashed efforts wide but, just as they were beginning to threaten, the Eredivisie team lost their rhythm when Charisteas was forced off after colliding with Kolo Touré, and were soon further behind. Nine minutes past the hour, Arsenal won possession on halfway and Flamini sent Reyes clear, the Spaniard rounding Vonk only to be upended. Pirès duly placed the spot-kick past the Ajax goalkeeper.
  
  Rosenberg riposte
  The two-goal cushion lasted only two minutes, however, as Almunia brilliantly tipped TomᚠGalásek's long-range strike on to a post, only for the rebound to fall perfectly for Rosenberg to tap in. Both sides had openings in the final 15 minutes, but Ajax were unable to find an equaliser to leave Arsenal sitting pretty.
  
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• iveco

  28 Sep 05, 18:05

  Ronaldinho sizzles in Barça win
  Tuesday, 27 September 2005
  by Lucas Brown
  from Camp Nou
  
  A Ronaldinho hat-trick paved the way for FC Barcelona to mark their 150th European Champion Clubs' Cup game with a Group C victory against Udinese Calcio.
  
  Leading the way
  Ronaldinho got Barça going with a 13th-minute free-kick before Felipe briefly interrupted the Brazilian magician's one-man show with a 24th-minute leveller. Once the home talisman had restored the lead, however, there was no way back for the Italian side and Ronaldinho completed the scoring from the spot, by which time Deco had also converted a stunning set-piece and Vidigal had seen red for Udinese.
  
  Brave start
  Rested at the weekend along with Deco, Ronaldinho marked his return in style, curling a delightful free-kick past Morgan De Sanctis in the Udinese goal from 22 metres. Udinese's display in the opening minutes had belied their status as Champions League debutants as they looked confident both in defence and attack. The visitors earned their reward when Valerio Bertotto's corner was met at the far post by Felipe who volleyed in from close range.
  
  Ronaldinho importance
  Udinese had not, however, counted on Ronaldinho hitting such superb form and the forward again underlined his importance to the Barça cause by stroking them back in front with a well-taken second goal after 31 minutes. After Felipe was too casual in possession, Lionel Messi stepped in to steal the ball and release Samuel Eto'o down the right. The Cameroonian broke to the by-line and delivered a cross which evaded the goalkeeper and two defenders and fell invitingly for Ronaldinho to side-foot into the far corner.
  
  Deco strikes
  Although the Udinese defence looked strong in open play, Barcelona once more showed their ability from set-pieces five minutes before the break. Another free-kick was won on the edge of the area, although this time Ronaldinho left it for Deco and looked on in delight as the Portuguese international lifted his shot over the wall and beyond De Sanctis. The home crowd and team were obviously buoyant, the atmosphere bringing the best out of Messi on his first start for the Blaugrana this term.
  
  Messi involved
  The Argentinian prodigy, who gained Spanish citizenship the day before the game, demonstrated why he is so highly regarded at Camp Nou by embarking on two powerful runs and displaying a number of neat touches as the Spanish champions swarmed forward. Udinese's Portuguese midfielder Vidigal had been booked for a 12th-minute foul on the 18-year-old and saw red three minutes after the restart for upending Juliano Belletti.
  
  Great atmosphere
  The reduction in numbers forced Udinese coach Serse Cosmi to make his second change of the night, replacing striker Antonio Di Natale with Stefano Mauri, with the substitute dropping into midfield. Irrespective of the scoreline, the massed ranks of visiting fans were vociferous from the upper echelons of this famous stadium, creating an impressive atmosphere. Driven on by that support, the Italian side held firm and limited Barça to shots from outside the box while even managing a few counterattacks themselves after breaking down home raids.
  
  Cosmi present
  The final word, though, went to Ronaldinho as he won a penalty after being fouled by Felipe, picked himself up and confidently beat De Sanctis from the spot. As the Brazilian left the field to rapturous applause, Cosmi was waiting to collect his shirt and keep a promise to his son.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  28 Sep 05, 18:06

  United save their best until last
  Tuesday, 27 September 2005
  by Simon Hart
  from Old Trafford
  
  Ruud van Nistelrooij struck a late winner as Manchester United FC overcame a tough challenge from Portuguese champions SL Benfica to go top of Group D with a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford.
  
  Call answered
  There were five minutes remaining when the Dutchman turned the ball in at the far post after Ryan Giggs's corner had ricocheted his way via Rio Ferdinand's head and Nuno Gomes's midriff. In doing so, the striker answered manager Sir Alex Ferguson's pre-match call for United's experienced attackers to make the difference on a night where they took the field with a decimated-looking defence.
  
  Benfica unlucky
  The absence of key players and a lack of confidence mean the 'Theatre of Dreams' may not be the place of opposition nightmares it used to be, but Van Nistelrooij's goal shows some things do not change. Prior to that, Benfica had looked destined for a draw after Simão's strike cancelled out Giggs's first-half free-kick on a night that served to underline the current uncertainties facing Sir Alex's side.
  
  Warning shot
  Benfica coach Ronald Koeman had suggested beforehand that United were "not at their best" and certainly injuries meant a makeshift look to their back line in which two 20-year-olds, Phil Bardsley and Kieran Richardson, filled the full-back positions. Koeman's men did not take long to threaten Edwin van der Sar's goal. First, Manuel Fernandes picked out Fabrizio Miccoli on the edge of the box and the Italian, stepping outside Ferdinand, rolled a warning shot wide.
  
  Van der Sar busy
  Miccoli did not have to wait long for his next opportunity, testing Van der Sar's fingertips with a strike across goal after John O'Shea had clumsily allowed Nuno Gomes's pass to slip through his legs. From the ensuing corner, the Dutch custodian was called into action again to keep out Ricardo Rocha's diving header. When these clubs met in the 1968 final at Wembley, they managed 42 shots between them and while a repeat here was never likely, Benfica were certainly enjoying more sights on goal than most visitors to Old Trafford.
  
  Rooney suspended
  Simão, after exchanging passes with Nuno Gomes, screwed an effort wide in the 21st minute, while United were struggling to make things happen without the suspended Wayne Rooney. Still, on 14 minutes the woodwork came to Benfica's rescue when Van Nistelrooij turned on Bardsley's low centre and flashed a right-footed drive which beat José Moreira but not the bar.
  
  Deflected goal
  Benfica, save for one or two timely Luisão interceptions, looked comfortable until the 39th minute and Giggs's opener. If United had reason to curse their misfortune with injuries, they certainly enjoyed a slice of luck here as the Welshman's free-kick deflected off the wall and flew past the wrong-footed Moreira.
  
  Lovely cross
  The second half opened with Cristiano Ronaldo sending a lovely cross into the danger zone which Van Nistelrooij just failed to reach, and the striker then saw a Giggs delivery bounce to safety off his heel after Moreira had missed the ball completely. If that offered United encouragement, they were left stunned when Simão fired Benfica level shortly before the hour with an exquisite free-kick after the Portuguese international had been felled by Alan Smith.
  
  Late chances
  Both sides saw a chance to win the match before Van Nistelrooij did just that. Luisão's careless header across the box landed at the feet of Ronaldo whose resulting shot struck the angle of the post and crossbar via Moreira's fingertips. At the other end, Van der Sar made a low scrambling save from Simão, although it was the keeper's countryman who had the final say.
  
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• iveco

  30 Sep 05, 13:51

  Schalke show their resolve
  Wednesday, 28 September 2005
  by Mark Bennett
  from Arena AufSchalke
  
  Strikes from Søren Larsen and Hamit Altintop enabled FC Schalke 04 to come from behind twice and cancel out AC Milan goals from Clarence Seedorf and Andriy Shevchenko in a pulsating 2-2 draw in UEFA Champions League Group E.
  
  Early excitement
  The game got off to a blistering start with Seedorf opening the scoring and Larsen equalising in three furious minutes. Both sides were evenly matched after that but the drama unfolded again after the break when substitute Altintop annulled Shevchenko's header with an arcing effort from distance.
  
  Schalke unchanged
  Schalke coach Ralf Rangnick looked to the same eleven that defeated Hannover 96 2-0 on Saturday, leaving captain Ebbe Sand, who has recovered from a back injury, on the bench. Rangnick's opposite number Carlo Ancelotti made two changes to the team that scored two unanswered goals against Treviso FC on Sunday. Cafu returned at right-back for Jaap Stam with Kakha Kaladze replacing Serginho on the other flank.
  
  Seedorf strike
  The tie could not have begun in more disappointing fashion for Schalke and their experienced goalkeeper Frank Rost. With 25 seconds on the clock, Alberto Gildardino found Seedorf in space and the Dutch international immediately released a low, curling shot from 23 metres to beat Rost, who let the ball slip under the palm of his hand.
  
  Larsen equaliser
  It was the third-fastest goal in Champions League history, but Schalke seemed unfazed and quickly regrouped to bounce back. Kevin Kuranyi flicked into the path of Lincoln and the Brazilian saw his strike deflect off Alessandro Nesta and fall kindly for Larsen, who was left with an easy header to beat Dida and level matters.
  
  Further chances
  Both sides continued to look lively and the visitors came close to renewing their advantage on ten minutes. Kaká's free-kick found Paolo Maldini but his header went wide of the target and dropped just beyond the reach of Shevchenko's desperate lunge. Schalke countered immediately but Kuranyi's aim too was slightly askew.
  
  Lincoln effort
  The 23-year-old striker was the hosts' most potent outlet and almost scored after showing excellent control 12 minutes from half-time, but he fired wide and Lincoln could do no better with a free-kick four minutes later. It had been a lively first half and neither coach saw any reason to make changes at the interval - though the opening minutes of the second period tailed off significantly.
  
  Shevchenko header
  Schalke often overdid the trickery when attacking, while Milan seemed reluctant to threaten the home defence until their second goal arrived on 59 minutes. Maldini exploited space on the left wing and delivered a right-footed cross for Shevchenko, who beat Rost with a powerful header.
  
  Altintop impact
  With his team trailing again, Rangnick decided to make his first change, introducing Altintop for Fabian Ernst in midfield. And the Turkish international made a rapid impact, taking just two minutes before releasing a blistering shot that left Dida rooted to the spot.
  
  Dida save
  After twice coming from behind, Schalke almost stole all three points in the closing stages. Another Larsen header brought the best out of Dida, who turned the Danish international's effort around the post at full stretch, although in truth neither side deserved to lose on a memorable evening.
  
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• iveco

  30 Sep 05, 13:52

  Substitute Soldado spares Madrid
  Wednesday, 28 September 2005
  by Andy Hall
  from Santiago Bernabéu
  
  A late header from substitute Roberto Soldado earned Real Madrid CF a valuable, but narrow, UEFA Champions League victory against a valiant Olympiacos CFP in the Spanish capital.
  
  Raúl record
  The Greek visitors appeared to have earned a point as Pantelis Kafes scored three minutes into the second period, the Olympiacos midfielder cancelling out Raúl González's ninth-minute effort. The Madrid forward's header made him the first player to register 50 goals in the European Champion Clubs' Cup - yet only looked good enough for a point until Soldado struck.
  
  Attacking approaches
  With both sides having lost their opening Group F fixtures a fortnight ago, to Olympique Lyonnais and Rosenborg BK respectively, their coaches opted for attacking 4-3-3 formations. Madrid's Vanderlei Luxemburgo was forced to improvise with Zinedine Zidane still nursing a groin strain and Ronaldo completing a two-match ban, so deployed Pablo García as a holding midfielder while Robinho, Julio Baptista and Raúl formed a three-pronged attack. Olympiacos counterpart Trond Sollied, meanwhile, dropped Haruna Babangida to the bench and brought Kafes into midfield.
  
  Scoring milestone
  Madrid drove into the visitors' penalty area straight from kick-off, Raúl and Baptista having early glimpses of goal. Raúl began the evening level with another Santiago Bernabéu idol, Alfredo Di Stéfano, on 49 European Cup goals, but on nine minutes glanced in David Beckham's right-wing set-piece to become the competition's all-time top scorer in his own right.
  
  Revelling Rivaldo
  Iker Casillas was then tested at the opposite end, the Madrid goalkeeper diving full length to keep out a Rivaldo free-kick to an almighty groan of disappointment from the away supporters. Rivaldo, on his return to Spain following five seasons with FC Barcelona, looked keen to make an impact and another thunderous effort forced Casillas to block. Olympiacos's Antonios Nikopolidis was kept busy too, racing out of his area to head clear before palming another Baptista shot wide.
  
  Kafes curler
  The hosts were pegged back three minutes into the second half, however, as Olympiacos levelled. Kafes collected possession on the edge of the box after his initial effort had been blocked and unleashed a terrific strike that curved away from Casillas and went in off the keeper's left-hand post. The goal was a severe blow for Madrid, while inspiring the Greek side to defend fiercely as a vital away point seemed within reach.
  
  Mounting pressure
  A lack of ideas in attack did not help the home team's predicament, although Robinho met a Roberto Carlos centre on the hour but powered his header over. Baptista then launched himself at another Beckham cross but failed to connect properly. As the minutes ticked away, Madrid's desperation to regain the lead increased and Baptista's flying header, which crashed against the bar on 77 minutes, seemed to sum up their frustration.
  
  Soldado to the rescue
  Luxemburgo swapped Baptista for striker Soldado with eleven minutes remaining and then immediately replaced Míchel Salgado for attacking midfielder Carlos Diogo. Olympiacos were four minutes away from claiming a point when Beckham's delivery was met by Soldado and, although Nikopolidis blocked his first header, the substitute reacted smartly to nod in the winner. It was the 20-year-old's first Champions League goal, and was celebrated with the same gusto as Raúl's 50th, although Madrid's night ended on a sour note as Sergio Ramos was sent off in added time for reacting to Ioannis Okkas's challenge.
  
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• iveco

  30 Sep 05, 13:54

  Holders held in tense tussle
  Wednesday, 28 September 2005
  by Alex O'Henley
  from Anfield
  
  Liverpool FC and Chelsea FC fought out a scoreless draw in Group G as last season's winners and losing semi-finalists shared the spoils at Anfield. The London club had arrived on Merseyside intent on avenging their semi-final defeat last May but in the end Jose Mourinho's side were happy to leave with a point in a match that Liverpool dominated without creating too many clear-cut chances.
  
  Lampard lively
  Rafael Benítez opted for an attacking formation with Djibril Cissé joining Peter Crouch up front while Didier Drogba led the Chelsea line in preference to Hernán Crespo. The Liverpool supporters taunted the visitors with chants of "champions of Europe" before kick-off, but it was Chelsea who threatened first from a Frank Lampard free-kick on seven minutes after Xabi Alonso had been booked for a tug on Michael Essien. Lampard's strike from 30 metres brought a one-handed save from José Manuel Reina low to his right, but the Spanish goalkeeper completely missed Damien Duff's subsequent corner and was relieved to see the ball fly out for a goal-kick.
  
  Hyypiä close
  Crouch's height was causing problems for the Chelsea defence from set-pieces and with 19 minutes on the clock the England striker rose above John Terry to nod the ball back across the five-metre line. The onrushing Sami Hyypiä stretched as he sought to prod home only for Drogba to get there a fraction earlier and clear the danger.
  
  Robben foiled
  This was a good spell for the home side but Chelsea were dangerous on the counterattack, as Arjen Robben demonstrated just after the half-hour mark. The Netherlands winger turned Hyypiä inside out before unleashing a venomous left-foot shot which brought a good save from Reina. With half-time approaching Chelsea created another opening when Duff slipped past Djimi Traoré before sending a tempting ball across the face of goal. However, Drogba failed to read the Irishman's intentions and the chance was gone.
  
  Liverpool on top
  Liverpool started brightly after the interval and Luis García almost made the breakthrough after 47 minutes. Again Crouch was instrumental in the build-up, flicking a long ball into the path of the Spanish midfielder who darted between Paulo Ferreira and Ricardo Carvalho, but Petr Cech saw the danger and raced off his line to smother the ball before García could convert. At the other end Drogba went close, rising to head a Ferreira cross from the right just over the bar.
  
  Pressure builds
  Jamie Carragher then threatened the Chelsea goal with a header from a corner that required a last-ditch intervention from William Gallas. The pressure from the home team was building and Drogba needed to be alert to clear a free-kick from Gerrard.
  
  Duff chance
  As the game entered the final quarter, Mourinho introduced Shaun Wright-Phillips for Robben but Liverpool still looked the more likely scorers and Cech was called into action to pluck Gerrard's cross out of the air before it could reach García. Duff then raced through on goal but Reina cleared before the winger could capitalise. It proved to be the Irishman's last contribution as he was replaced by Crespo shortly afterwards.
  
  Alonso effort
  Liverpool substitute Florent Sinama-Pongolle then caused panic in the Chelsea rearguard when he escaped to the by-line with six minutes remaining before delivering a cross that was cleared only as far as Alonso, but the Spaniard's long-range drive was held comfortably by Cech.
  
  Repeat meeting
  The sides meet again in the Premiership on Sunday but for now both will be content with a point which leaves them joint top of Group G, one point clear of Real Betis Balompié.
  
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• iveco

  30 Sep 05, 13:54

  Artmedia stage incredible fightback
  Wednesday, 28 September 2005
  by Duncan White
  
  Another night of high European adventure for FC Artmedia Bratislava as they staged an incredible comeback from two goals down against FC Porto at the Estádio do Dragão to win 3-2 and secure their first points of the group stage.
  
  Inspiring comeback
  Porto had eased into a two-goal lead in the first half through Lucho González and Diego but Peter Petrᚠbegan the fightback just before half-time. After the break Ján Kozák finished off a counterattack and Balázs Borbély converted from close range to give the Slovakian champions a famous victory against the side that won this competition two seasons ago.
  
  Fine form
  Porto have been in fine domestic form and came into the game off the back of a 2-0 win against CF Os Belenenses on Saturday. Coach Co Adriaanse kept faith with that team and made no changes to his attack-minded 4-3-3 formation. In contrast, Artmedia coach Vladimir Weiss decided to be cautious, recalling Branislav Fodrek to midfield and dropping striker Juraj Halenár to the bench to make room for defensive player Ondrej Debnár.
  
  Bright start
  Porto started brightly, playing crisp passing football and searching out gaps through their creative midfielders. The hosts were playing at their own pace, with the tempo being dictated by the outstanding playmaker Diego.
  
  Diego class
  Indeed, the Brazilian came close with an early volley, while Artmedia goalkeeper Juraj Čobej struggled to keep out a long-range effort from Lucho González. With half an hour gone, Porto should have opened the scoring but Bosingwa ignored the unmarked Benni McCarthy and instead tried to pick out Jorginho. Čobej dived at the Brazilian's feet.
  
  Opening goal
  Adriaanse's side were not in any hurry though and their patience was rewarded on 32 minutes when Lucho González broke the deadlock. Jorginho had flicked the ball over his man and had a near-post shot saved. The ball broke to Ricardo Quaresma and the Portuguese international's cross was perfect for Porto's Argentinian midfielder to nod in.
  
  Diego strikes
  The second was not long coming. Indeed, only seven minutes had elapsed when Porto launched a counterattack after Artmedia had over-committed in their search for an equaliser. Debnár backed off from Diego and the Brazilian did not need a second invitation, shooting firmly into the bottom corner at the near post.
  
  Artmedia defiant
  Artmedia were not about to roll over, however. With Porto's defence not getting tight enough, Petrᚠcut inside the challenge of Ricardo Costa and fired low at the near post. The ball went through Bruno Alves's legs and in at Vítor Baía's near post.
  
  Kozák levels
  Weiss decided to take the game to the home team after the break, bringing on Halenár for Peter Burák. The change paid dividends as Artmedia equalised with a text-book counterattack on 54 minutes. After a Porto corner had been cleared, the substitute sent in a fine crossfield ball to Ján Kozák on the left. He skipped around Vítor Baía and stroked the ball calmly around the backtracking Quaresma.
  
  McCarthy chance
  Porto dominated possession as the game drew to a close and kept creating chances. From a Quaresma free-kick, McCarthy beat the offside trap and was free in front of goal. A poor touch allowed Čobej to rush out and block.
  
  Dramatic winner
  Yet it was Artmedia who scored the winner with 16 minutes remaining. A rare foray into Porto territory yielded a free-kick on the left flank. Kozák jogged up take it and his whipped cross was met by Borbély, who had got in front of Ricardo Costa to side-foot into the net.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  19 Oct 05, 08:51

  Bianconeri broken by Bayern
  Tuesday, 18 October 2005
  by Andreas Alf
  from Fußball Arena München
  
  First-half goals from Sebastian Deisler and Martin Demichelis helped FC Bayern München exorcise the ghosts of last season's twin defeats by Juventus with an impressive 2-1 win on home soil in UEFA Champions League Group A.
  
  Courageous display
  Although unnerved by Zlatan Ibrahimoviæ's late close-range tap-in, Felix Magath's side deserved this prestigious victory and the precious three points it brought, after a courageous attacking display which ruffled the Italian champions throughout.
  
  French return
  Magath was without Owen Hargreaves, the English international midfielder sidelined by flu. But French full-backs Bixente Lizarazu and Willy Sagnol recovered from injuries to play, along with Deisler, who shook off a knock sustained in the weekend draw at FC Schalke 04.
  
  Del Piero dropped
  Patrick Vieira's groin problem made him a notable absentee for the visitors, who were also missing Jonathan Zebina. Giuliano Giannichedda and Manuele Blasi stepped in for that French duo, while coach Fabio Capello dropped Alessandro Del Piero to the bench alongside Bayern old boy Robert Kovaè, favouring David Trezeguet and Ibrahimoviæ up front.
  
  Early chances
  Bayern began in an unexpectedly offensive fashion and could have had their opponents in trouble with two clear chances inside four minutes. But Roque Santa Cruz's header and a decent Roy Makaay shot missed the target, and moments later Juventus goalkeeper Christian Abbiati was able to parry Michael Ballack's 18-metre free-kick to safety.
  
  Nedvìd outmuscled
  The Bianconeri, sporting an all-yellow change strip, had no midfield space to get into the game, with Pavel Nedvìd and company being outmuscled by Demichelis in the centre. As their confidence grew, Bayern edged closer to breaking the deadlock but Abbiati kept the game goalless with a spectacular save from Makaay's free-kick.
  
  Deisler decisive
  Magath's men continued to press and Deisler delivered the opener just after the half-hour when the German international stepped up the pace on the right wing, and with Abbiati expecting a cross, surprised the keeper with a shot at goal that he could only deflect into his own net. Deisler turned provider for the second goal seven minutes later, Demichelis doubling the advantage with a perfect header from a pinpoint corner.
  
  Bianconeri changes
  Capello had seen enough and brought on Del Piero and Giorgio Chiellini for Mauro Camoranesi and Blasi after the break. But the hosts continued to dominate thanks to a strong left flank manned by Zé Roberto and Bastian Schweinsteiger, who replaced the once-again injured Lizarazu.
  
  Substitute denied
  It took almost an hour before Juventus mustered their first clear-cut opportunity. Some 66,000 spectators watched Oliver Kahn comfortably stop Del Piero's free-kick from just outside the area. But with a third goal in the offing, it was brilliant Bayern who went closest as Makaay's volley from inside the box flashed past Abbiati's woodwork.
  
  Intentions clear
  Just seconds later, Trezeguet failed to hit the target from a tight angle despite being unmarked. But besides Ibrahimoviæ's late consolation, it was the home team's centre-halves, Lucio and Valérien Ismaël, who came to the fore in the latter stages as Bayern closed out victory to make their intentions in Europe clear.
  
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• iveco

  19 Oct 05, 08:54

  Henry back with a bang
  Tuesday, 18 October 2005
  by Sam Beckwith
  from Sparta stadium
  
  Thierry Henry made a spectacular return from injury to score both goals as Arsenal FC recorded a third successive victory in UEFA Champions League Group B, defeating AC Sparta Praha 2-0 in Prague.
  
  Spectacular return
  The French international had not played since hitting France's winner in the FIFA World Cup Group 4 qualifier in the Republic of Ireland on 7 September, suffering a groin problem in the same game. He made an early comeback here as a 15th-minute substitute, however, and struck a spectacular opener within six minutes of his arrival before adding a second in the closing stages - making him Arsenal's record scorer with 186 goals in all competitions - to leave the Londoners with a five-point lead in the section, and Sparta ruing missed opportunities.
  
  Three changes
  Sparta coach Stanislav Griga made two changes to the team that beat FK Chmel Blšany 5-2 at the weekend, bringing in a defender and a forward in Pavel Pergl and Miroslav Slepička. For their part, Arsenal FC made three alterations having lost 2-1 at West Bromwich Albion FC on Saturday, with Philippe Senderos, Fredrik Ljungberg and Dennis Bergkamp making way for Pascal Cygan, Gilberto - who also took over as captain - and Robin van Persie.
  
  Early introduction
  Despite sections of Sparta's stadium being closed as a punishment for racist chanting during the Matchday 1 game against AFC Ajax, both sets of fans were in good voice. Within ten minutes, Zdeněk Pospěch had gone close for the home side, connecting with a cross in the area but failing to get any power in his shot. Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger had surprisingly included Henry on the bench, announcing his intention to introduce the striker for the final half-hour. In the event, José Antonio Reyes was forced off on the quarter-hour after two heavy tackles, allowing Henry to come on to the delight of Arsenal's travelling support.
  
  Quick reminder
  His pace and vision soon began to unsettle the home defence, and he quickly reminded everyone of his undoubted class, deftly controlling a long pass from Kolo Touré, turning and curving the ball beyond Sparta goalkeeper Jaromír Blažek from the edge of the area with the outside of his right foot.
  
  Sparta threat
  The visitors then started to drop deeper, but despite some well-organised Arsenal defending, Sparta's pressure occasionally looked like paying off. Pospěch connected with another left-wing cross but failed to find the target. Slepička tested Jens Lehmann - returning from a two-match suspension - with a clever back-flick from Lukáš Zelenka's corner, but the Arsenal No1 dealt easily with the threat.
  
  Counterattack chance
  Sparta continued to push for an equaliser as the second period kicked off, Slovakian international Karol Kisel forcing Lehmann to tip a long-range effort over the crossbar. As the half unfolded, though, Griga's men were increasingly frustrated while remaining vulnerable on the break thanks to the pace and stealth of Henry. Arsenal's occasional forays into opposition territory carried an air of genuine menace, Henry's incisive ball into the Sparta area setting up Cesc Fabregas for a shot Blažek did well to block.
  
  Clinical second
  Attempting to reinvigorate his attack, Griga withdrew defender Pergl in favour of the more attack-minded Miroslav Matušovič. Almost immediately, though, Henry effectively settled the contest, latching on to a sweeping Robert Pirès pass and shooting nervelessly past Blažek. Wenger will be delighted his gamble was so handsomely rewarded, while Sparta remain bottom of the table.
  
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• iveco

  19 Oct 05, 08:56

  Barcelona blunted in Athens
  Tuesday, 18 October 2005
  by Paul Saffer
  from Athens Olympic stadium
  
  Panathinaikos FC blunted the three-man attack of FC Barcelona with, in the end, some comfort to secure a UEFA Champions League Group C draw which will not harm either side's chances of reaching the next stage.
  
  Visitors frustrated
  Only occasionally were the two goalkeepers called into action, as Ronaldinho in particular had a night of increasing – and rare – frustration. However, when Panathinaikos come to the Camp Nou for Barcelona's 100th UEFA Champions League game in a fortnight, they will be hard-pressed to hold out in this style again.
  
  Surprise selection
  The big surprise in the Panathinaikos lineup was the selection of Igor Bišæan in defence in place of usual captain Ioannis Goumas, while Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard opted for the experience of Henrik Larsson over the prodigious brilliance of Lionel Messi. It was goalkeeper Víctor Valdés who was first into action, though, pouncing on the ball when Mikael Nilsson and Evagelos Mantzios broke down the left and fed Sándor Torghelle.
  
  Barça rhythm
  However, Barcelona soon found their rhythm, Samuel Eto'o the spearhead supported by Larsson and Ronaldinho, who supplied an early crossfield ball to the Swede that bamboozled the home defence, though Eto'o's subsequent shot did not trouble home goalkeeper Mario Galinoviæ. A clever Deco free-kick past the blind side of the wall then found Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who sent the ball past the far post.
  
  Mantzios denied
  Panathinaikos were clearly more wary of Barcelona than their bullish pre-match demeanour had suggested, Ronaldinho and Deco seeming to force slips from their opponents through sheer presence. But there may have been strained Catalan nerves at the other end when the lively Torghelle's through-ball sent Mantzios one-on-one with Valdés 20 minutes in, only for the shot to go straight at the grateful custodian.
  
  Home side settle
  Still, that incident reminded Barcelona of their own vulnerability, and Panathinaikos were finally allowed to settle, their midfield often hitting threatening balls over the top of the visiting defence, though full-backs Loukas Vintra and Filippos Darlas offered alternative attacking options through overlaps. In contrast to their early dominance, it was Barcelona who were perhaps happier to end the half at 0-0, having switched Eto'o and Ronaldinho within their front three in an attempt to rediscover lost verve.
  
  Eto'o efforts
  The break seemed to refresh Barcelona, who showed the same guile as in the first 20 minutes. Xavi Hernández's precise pass into the path of Ronaldinho set up Eto'o, denied by Galinoviæ, and the striker was then stopped by Naisef Morris's nerveless sliding tackle. Thiago Motta now replaced Mark van Bommel, but the Italian's first act was to concede a free-kick nearly 30 metres out, Vintra's strong shot forcing Valdés to dive and save.
  
  Tactical change
  Panathinaikos coach Alberto Malesani decided on a change himself just before the hour, Torghelle withdrawn and Sotirios Leontiou coming into midfield, Mantzios now a lone forward supported by Ezequiel González. The central midfield was becoming a crowded place, and Rijkaard chose, with a stalemate beginning to emerge, to unleash Messi for Larsson, though Van Bronckhorst's snap shot did force Galinoviæ into action just before the substitution.
  
  Bišæan intervention
  Andrés Iniesta too was tried, and Dimitrios Papadopoulos made his bow in this season's group stage for the final 15 minutes. Not long after, Eto'o broke through the Panathinaikos defence and rounded Galinoviæ, but to his amazement his strike from a tight angle was deflected off target by Bišæan's leg. Then the Cameroonian was sent through but the goalkeeper dived at his feet. It summed up Barcelona's night.
  
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• iveco

  19 Oct 05, 08:57

  United held as Scholes sees red
  Tuesday, 18 October 2005
  by Simon Hart
  from Old Trafford
  
  LOSC Lille Métropole have still to score in UEFA Champions League Group D but it is unlikely their coach Claude Puel will be too perturbed by this failure after the French side claimed a valuable point with a goalless draw at Manchester United FC.
  
  Dogged draw
  It was a frustrating evening for Sir Alex Ferguson's team who, in the absence of the suspended Wayne Rooney, struggled to find the inspiration to unlock a Lille side who lived up to their nickname of Les Dogues with a disciplined, dogged approach that ultimately earned a deserved stalemate.
  
  Scholes dismissed
  Four years ago at Old Trafford, United broke Lille's resistance with a David Beckham goal at the last but the chances of that receded once Paul Scholes had been dismissed for a second yellow card on 64 minutes. Scholes will miss the clubs' next encounter in Paris on 2 November, along with Ryan Giggs who was withdrawn after breaking his cheekbone, although United at least retain first place in the group after Villarreal CF and SL Benfica drew.
  
  Few chances
  Lille, with just one out-and-out striker in Peter Odemwingie, offered United few gaps to exploit in a cagey opening period. Just past the ten-minute mark, however, slack defending could have brought the first goal. Efstathios Tavlaridis fluffed a clearance, allowing Cristiano Ronaldo to race clear down the left and whip in a low cross which Tony Sylva was forced to deal with after unconvincing defending.
  
  Odemwingie fall
  Moments later came a scare for United as Odemwingie found himself clean through on Edwin van der Sar's goal. As he looked to round the goalkeeper, the Nigerian international tumbled over under minimal contact from the custodian and saw his penalty claims ignored by referee Stefano Farina. Save for two Milenko Aèimoviè shots from distance, that was the sum total of Lille's first-half threat.
  
  Scholes shot
  The Ligue 1 team were neat in possession but it was United who had the better chances. One sweetly-worked free-kick routine after 16 minutes saw Giggs, out on the right, play a short ball infield to Phil Bardsley whose floated centre was flicked on by Rio Ferdinand to Scholes, and the flame-haired midfielder burnt Sylva's fingertips with a volleyed effort across goal. Shortly afterwards Sylva was called into action again to save low from Ruud van Nistelrooij.
  
  Giggs threat
  One or two heavy challenges raised the temperature inside Old Trafford but the game continued to flow towards Lille's goal. The visitors breathed a sigh of relief shortly after the half-hour when the lively Giggs, a set-piece scorer against Benfica, was denied by the woodwork after his free-kick had beaten both the wall and Sylva.
  
  Momentum fades
  United started the second half brightly, and Ronaldo had a headed opportunity from a corner but nodded straight at Sylva. However, a degree of sloppiness began to creep into their play and that early momentum faded. Instead the next goal attempt of note came from Lille substitute Geoffrey Dernis who, seconds after replacing Aèimoviè, had Van der Sar scrambling across his goal.
  
  Chances spurned
  United's prospects dimmed further when Scholes, booked in the first half, collected a second caution for a late challenge on Jean Makoun four minutes past the hour. Still, despite being a man down, United sought the winner to the end. Sylva did well to turn away Ronaldo's deflected cross while Giggs had a free-kick deflected over and Ferdinand headed straight at Sylva from the resulting corner. Van Nistelrooij was then denied a late chance by the offside flag, and Lille had their point.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  20 Oct 05, 13:15

  No way through in Milan
  Wednesday, 19 October 2005
  by Ivan Carvalho
  from San Siro
  
  AC Milan were denied three points as determined PSV Eindhoven held them to a goalless draw in their UEFA Champions League Group E tie at the San Siro.
  
  Great goalkeeping
  The visitors endured a ferocious onslaught from last season's runners-up as the Rossoneri monopolised possession throughout. But despite creating a string of half-chances, Milan were unable to find a way past PSV goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes.
  
  Gilardino dropped
  True to his word, Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti stuck with his new rotation policy, making five changes to the side that won on Sunday against Cagliari Calcio. Alberto Gilardino was dropped for Christian Vieri up front, while Filippo Inzaghi – just back from a five-month lay-off – began the night on the bench.
  
  Farfán fit
  PSV coach Guus Hiddink, meanwhile, breathed easier with the news that Jefferson Farfán passed a late fitness test. The Peruvian was paired opposite DaMarcus Beasley in the channels, with Robert spearheading the Dutch team's three-man attack.
  
  Vieri chance
  An eager-to-impress Vieri, still searching for his first goal in Rossoneri colours, nearly got on the scoresheet after just 120 seconds. The former FC Internazionale Milano marksman raced on to a Clarence Seedorf pass only to send his half-volley blazing over the crossbar.
  
  Ooijer experience
  In the opening period, PSV's striking options were stifled as they found themselves unable to release their lightning-quick forwards into space. But at the other end, the PSV back line did well to keep out Milan, exemplified by André Ooijer's ability to read the runs of Milan's front men.
  
  Playmaker Pirlo
  With the hosts controlling play, an opening goal seemed close at hand and Andriy Shevchenko should have done better when Andrea Pirlo set him up with a raking long pass. But the Ukrainian turned the wrong way after trapping the ball and his subsequent shot was directed almost straight at Gomes.
  
  Double save
  Milan ended the half with several more chances as a galloping Kaká tested Gomes with a powerful blast that forced the Brazilian into a double save. Then Pirlo dribbled his way into space and unloaded a right-footed effort that dipped just over the crossbar.
  
  Inzaghi returns
  No sooner had the second half started than Milan went into overdrive looking to break the deadlock. Straight from the kick-off, Seedorf drove a low ball at Gomes which the goalkeeper nearly spilled. Next, with Shevchenko clearly in discomfort, Ancelotti brought on Inzaghi in his place.
  
  Kaladze cracker
  The return of 'Pippo', who had already earned the lion's share of applause when introduced before kick-off, energised the locals. Team-mate Kakha Kaladze heeded the call to pour forward and fired a bullet at Gomes to herald a 20-minute spell that saw the PSV goal under siege.
  
  Gomes grace
  Clearly not pleased with his earlier efforts, Seedorf again was the protagonist as he found room on the right and let fly a deflected shot which Gomes blocked. It was an impressive one-man display of grace under fire as the Brazilian fended off wave after wave of Milan incursions into his area.
  
  Tactical switch
  In order to stop the continuous barrage, Hiddink replaced Robert with Ismaïl Aisatti to break up the tempo. The coach seemed content to emerge with a well-deserved point and stay close to Milan at the top of the group - and despite four minutes of added time, his disciplined team held firm.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  20 Oct 05, 13:18

  Madrid fightback flattens Rosenborg
  Wednesday, 19 October 2005
  by Andy Hall
  from Santiago Bernabéu
  
  Real Madrid CF were forced to come from behind to defeat Norwegian visitors Rosenborg BK 4-1 in UEFA Champions League Group F and found inspiration in the unlikeliest of sources as Jonathan Woodgate's equalising header paved the way to victory.
  
  Debut dream
  Woodgate, whose only previous goals in a Madrid shirt had gone into his own net, cancelled out Roar Strand's first-half strike three minutes into the second period as Madrid returned rejuvenated after a testing opening 45 minutes. Raúl González, Iván Helguera and David Beckham added further goals as the Spanish side moved into second place in the section with this second successive win.
  
  Notable absentees
  Both coaches were able to field their usual 4-3-3 formations, albeit with several changes. Madrid's Vanderlei Luxemburgo was deprived of Míchel Salgado, Sergio Ramos and Ronaldo so opted to introduce Carlos Diogo and Woodgate in defence while Robinho moved into a central attacking role flanked by Julio Baptista and Raúl. Zinedine Zidane, now fully recovered from a groin strain, started his first Group F game at Guti's expense.
  
  Tactical reshuffle
  For the visitors, Ørjan Berg failed a late fitness test, forcing coach Per-Mathias Høgmo to deploy Per Ciljan Skjelbred in the middle of midfield, while Christer Basma stepped in at right-back to push captain Strand into a more advanced position. Despite the reshuffle, the visitors defended solidly in the opening stages, their organisation and discipline leaving few spaces for the hosts, who looked quite stifled in attack.
  
  Madrid danger
  Madrid nevertheless managed to fashion a number of attempts on Espen Johnsen's goal, Raúl firing straight into the goalkeeper's hands in the opening minute before Woodgate, up front for a corner, headed over. Efforts from Baptista and Robinho likewise ended in the stands, before the Rosenborg keeper brilliantly smothered Raúl's audacious back-heel.
  
  Johnsen excellence
  Chances for Rosenborg were at a premium and home goalkeeper Iker Casillas was relatively untroubled, although he did punch clear an Øyvind Storflor free-kick. The Spanish international then watched his opposite number react superbly to tip a toe-poke from Baptista on to the crossbar.
  
  Strand strikes
  However, as Luxemburgo had warned, the Norwegian outfit are masters of the counterattack and caught out Madrid against the run of play just before half-time. Storflor's centre escaped Helguera, leaving Strand – who scored Rosenborg's opener in a 2-0 win against Madrid in Trondheim in the 1997/98 UEFA Champions League - to calmly slip his shot past Casillas.
  
  Madrid revived
  Luxemburgo responded by swapping Baptista for Guti at half-time, and the switch brought instant results as Madrid turned the game on its head within seven minutes of the restart. First, Woodgate met Beckham's raking cross to direct a powerful header under the crossbar, and soon after, Raúl put the home team ahead following a dazzling display of skill from Robinho. The Brazilian's run created the opportunity for Madrid's captain to show some fast footwork of his own, controlling the ball with his left and slotting it in with his right.
  
  Helguera header
  Confidence restored, Madrid began to dominate and extended their advantage on 68 minutes when Helguera connected with a Beckham free-kick to nod inside the near post. The pressure was relentless, Raúl and Robinho both going close as the final whistle approached but it was Beckham who crowned a fine performance by curling a signature set-piece into the top corner. Madrid will be full of confidence for the return match in two weeks, although Pablo García will be suspended after collecting a yellow card.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  20 Oct 05, 13:20

  Cissé adds to Anderlecht agony
  Wednesday, 19 October 2005
  by David Minton
  from Constant Vanden Stock
  
  Liverpool FC's second away win in UEFA Champions League Group G has kept the holders on course for the knockout phase. Striker Djibril Cissé's 20th-minute volley condemned RSC Anderlecht to their third 1-0 defeat in the section, while extending the hosts' unwanted record at this stage of the competition to ten straight losses.
  
  Changes made
  Rafael Benítez handed Sami Hyypiä a 53rd consecutive European start as he opted for a seemingly conservative 4-5-1 formation with Cissé the lone striker. Anderlecht, for their part, made three changes. Hannu Tihinen's recovery from illness consigned Lamine Traoré to the bench while Bart Goor and Pär Zetterberg replaced Fabrice Ehret and Walter Baseggio respectively.
  
  Goor denied
  Goor was immediately in the action, played through on goal by Christian Wilhelmsson after a flowing move, but José Manuel Reina came sharply off his line to save with his legs.
  
  Riise to the fore
  Gradually the visitors found their stride with Dietmar Hamann shooting narrowly wide before Luis García missed a golden chance in the 13th minute, firing over from in front of goal from John Arne Riise's perfectly weighted pull-back. Finding space on the left, Riise was becoming ever more involved. The Norwegian's curled effort with his less-favoured right foot was brilliantly turned behind by Silvio Proto.
  
  Cissé strike
  That was the precursor to the goal as the ensuing corner, swung in by Hamann, was brilliantly volleyed home by Cissé for his ninth goal of the season.
  
  Chances spurned
  A second almost followed in similar fashion. Again a corner caused problems for the home defence, but this time goalkeeper Proto made an outstanding point-blank save from Djimi Traoré. Goor spurned Anderlecht's best opportunity to equalise before the break, collecting Mbo Mpenza's controlled header but skewing the ball off target.
  
  Riise rocket
  Riise, continuing to venture down the left flank to great effect, flashed a thunderous volley centimetres wide as the second half got under way. Anderlecht replied with Anthony Vanden Borre's poked attempt forcing Reina into action.
  
  Wilhelmsson threatens
  The action became stretched as Anderlecht desperately chased their first goal of the group stage, seeking to exploit the room left by Riise's forays forward. A sign of coach Frank Vercauteren's intent saw holding midfielder Yves Vanderhaeghe replaced by Baseggio. They had a penalty appeal refused when Wilhelmsson's cross was blocked by Jamie Carragher, and the Swedish midfielder then shot across goal as the fightback gathered momentum.
  
  Cissé chance
  But Liverpoool were breaking dangerously and Cissé held his head in his hands after dragging a left-foot effort just wide from yet another opening created by the indefatigable Riise.
  
  Changes made
  Anderlecht were unbowed, although another Vanden Borre miss at the far post left the home supporters frustrated. With fifteen minutes remaining the coaches made contrasting substitutions. Harry Kewell made his first appearance since May's UEFA Champions League final, on for Cissé, while Anderlecht switched to three at the back with forward Akin Serhat replacing Olivier Deschacht.
  
  Proto brilliance
  A wonderful Proto save with his feet prevented Mohamed Sissoko adding a second for Liverpool, who continued to threaten on the break with García denied by another fine stop in the dying minutes. However, Liverpool were content with the solitary strike which keeps them alongside Chelsea FC at the top of Group G on seven points, four above Real Betis Balompié with Anderlecht looking doomed to a fight for a UEFA Cup place at best.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  20 Oct 05, 13:22

  Porto back from the brink
  Wednesday, 19 October 2005
  
  After a nightmare start to their UEFA Champions League campaign, FC Porto resurrected their hopes of progress from Group H with an impressive win against FC Internazionale Milano. There was an element of fortune about both goals, but inspired by the brilliant Ricardo Quaresma, they outclassed their illustrious visitors who dropped their first points.
  
  Porto revival
  The Portuguese side, European champions in 2004, had started with consecutive 3-2 defeats by Rangers FC and FC Artmedia and had looked on the brink of elimination. However, they are now back in the hunt for qualification, thanks to Marco Materazzi's own goal and a Benni McCarthy volley that deflected heavily off Juan Sebastián Verón. Lucky perhaps, but this was a much-improved performance from Co Adriaanse's team.
  
  Tactical reshuffle
  Following those opening losses, Adriaanse attempted to avert the slide with a raft of changes. Striker Lisandro López and defender Bruno Alves were injured and the Dutch coach made four further alterations to the side beaten 2-0 by SL Benfica at the weekend.
  
  Adriano left out
  Adriaanse's Inter counterpart, Roberto Mancini, decided against recalling Adriano after the forward returned late from international duty with Brazil. But winger Luís Figo, back on home soil, was given a starting place. David Pizarro was also added to the team that thrashed AS Livorno Calcio 5-0 on Sunday – Alvaro Recoba and Zé Maria dropping to the bench.
  
  Strong start
  Inter began the stronger, with a Materazzi header being deflected over from close range and Julio Cruz going one-on-one with Vítor Baía, only for the veteran goalkeeper to save with his right boot.
  
  Own goal
  It was Porto who took the lead, though, in bizarre circumstances on 22 minutes. Right-back Bosingwa curled in an awkward cross from deep and Walter Samuel was unable to head clear. The ball's flight caught Materazzi by surprise and it ricocheted off his knee and beyond a stunned Júlio César.
  
  McCarthy on mark
  McCarthy doubled the advantage 12 minutes later, making amends after missing a great early opportunity. When Verón tripped Jorginho on the edge of the box, McCarthy opted to shoot from the ensuing free-kick. His first effort was blocked but the ball dropped straight back to him on the volley and he struck it into the bottom corner with the help of a deflection off Verón.
  
  Quaresma inspired
  The inspiration for Porto's impressive showing was the recalled Quaresma. Inter had no answer to the forward's pace and poise, with acting Inter captain Iván Córdoba forced into fouling him five times before the interval.
  
  Cambiasso chances
  Esteban Cambiasso twice had the chance to reduce the deficit in the early stages of the second half. The Inter midfielder fired over from eight metres after Vítor Baía had done well to parry a Santiago Solari shot, and then from substitute Recoba's corner, he nodded against Pepe and over from just two metres.
  
  Porto fortune
  Fortune certainly seemed to be favouring the hosts. On 62 minutes Recoba's cross deceived Vítor Baía, who could only palm against the far post. The ball bounced on to Figo, back on to the woodwork and then to safety. Recoba was at the heart of everything, his centres deserving better finishes from fellow substitute Adriano and the hard-working Cruz. Then Cambiasso squandered the easiest opportunity of the lot in added time. It was simply not Inter's night.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.
  
• iveco

  2 Nov 05, 17:47

  Farfán fanfare lifts PSV top
  Tuesday, 1 November 2005
  by Derek Brookman
  from Philips Stadion
  
  PSV Eindhoven defeated AC Milan in a home UEFA Champions League encounter for the second time this year. But unlike last season's ultimately futile semi-final victory, this 1-0 win gives them an excellent chance of progressing as Group E winners.
  
  Teenage kicks
  The result was definitely a triumph for youth over the Milan old guard, with the home side fielding two teenagers and the winner coming from 21-year old Jefferson Farfán. Indeed, the biggest surprise in PSV's starting lineup was the inclusion of midfielder Ismaïl Aisatti, Guus Hiddink staying true to his pre-match statement that he would not hesitate to hand the 17-year-old his full debut if the situation demanded it.
  
  Stam dismissed
  Experienced defender Michael Reiziger, fleetingly a Milan player, dropped to the bench as the coach fielded an attacking XI, while Alberto Gilardino partnered Christian Vieri in attack for the visitors. Former PSV favourite Jaap Stam started at right-back for the Rossoneri, but ended with a premature exit after collecting a second yellow card in the 84th minute.
  
  Brisk start
  The game started briskly with the first clear opening arriving as early as the first minute, Dida saving a Phillip Cocu header. Less than 60 seconds later, Vieri shot straight at Heurelho Gomes from the edge of the box following a mistake by Cocu. Both teams continued to play at a high tempo, pushing forward at every opportunity, and it was no surprise when PSV took the lead after eleven minutes. Kakha Kaladze only succeeded in heading a speculative clearance by Gomes into the path of Farfán, leaving the Peruvian international to stride into the area and smash a low drive in off Dida's near post.
  
  Instinctive block
  Milan playmaker Andrea Pirlo curled a free-kick narrowly over soon after, but it was only Dida's instinctive block after 20 minutes that prevented fellow Brazilian Alex doubling PSV's advantage with a powerful header. Last season's UEFA Champions League runners-up were determined to pull level, and came within centimetres of doing so as a powerful long-range effort from Clarence Seedorf whistled past Gomes's right-hand post just after the half-hour mark. The keeper was almost embarrassed after 37 minutes, recovering to knock the ball behind after almost punching Seedorf's corner into his net.
  
  Succession of corners
  As the half drew to an end, the visitors pushed deeper into PSV territory, forcing a succession of corners. Gomes had to get down smartly to parry a Vieri snap-shot, and the same player buzzed another effort just wide moments before the break. Milan coach Fabio Capello responded by adding width to his left flank by bringing on Serginho and Marek Jankulovski for Gennaro Gattuso and Kaladze, yet DaMarcus Beasley carved out the first real chance, evading two challenges and cutting in from the left before drilling in a low attempt that Dida turned behind.
  
  PSV hold firm
  A deflected Seedorf strike then almost sneaked in under the bar before Hiddink substituted midfielder Ibrahim Afellay for full-back Reiziger, a sign that his side were content to defend their lead. However, Cocu kept Dida busy with a stinging low shot seconds later, while Milan were finding it difficult to break PSV down aside from Paolo Maldini heading Pirlo's free-kick over.
  
  Shevchenko chance
  Ancelotti took a final gamble by introducing Andriy Shevchenko in the 74th minute, and within 60 seconds the fit-again Ukrainian unleashed a spectacular free-kick which produced a save of equal merit from Gomes. Milan's task got even more difficult when Stam, booked in the 45th minute, picked up another caution for hauling down Beasley. It said much for PSV's performance that Aisatti went closest to scoring late on, firing an effort from outside the area just over. Still, it was a debut to remember.
  
  ©uefa.com 1998-2005. All rights reserved.