Online gambling is changing quickly. More players are looking for casinos that are easy to use, fast with payouts, and flexible with payment options. Instead of offering only one way to deposit and withdraw, many modern casinos now support both cryptocurrencies and traditional (fiat) money. This gives players more control over how they play and get paid, no matter where they are or what they prefer to use.

Below is a simple guide to what to look for in top crypto and fiat casinos in 2026.

Crypto + Fiat in One Place

A good modern casino makes it easy to use both digital coins and regular money without confusion. Many leading platforms now let you choose between Bitcoin, stablecoins, and traditional currencies like USD or EUR in the same account. For example, casinos similar to https://www.biggerz.com/ show how crypto and fiat wallets can sit side by side, so players can pick what works best for each session.

What you should expect here:

• A clear balance or wallet section for each currency type
• Simple switching between crypto and fiat options
• Fair minimum and maximum limits for deposits and withdrawals

This setup is especially helpful if you like the speed and privacy of crypto, but still feel comfortable using your bank card or e-wallet.

Fast and Clear Payouts

Getting your winnings quickly is a big part of a good casino experience. In 2026, waiting days for a withdrawal feels outdated. The better casinos focus on quick and predictable payouts.

Look for:

• Simple, honest information about payout times for each method
• Near-instant withdrawals for crypto in many cases
• Reasonable processing times for cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets
• No surprise fees hidden in long-term conditions

If a casino takes payouts seriously, it will explain everything in clear language and keep you updated if there are any delays.

Licensing, Fair Games, and Safety

No matter how modern the payment methods are, safety always comes first. Trustworthy casinos usually:

• Hold a license from a recognized gambling authority
• Work with well-known game providers
• Offer clear game rules, and when possible, show RTP (return to player)

If you can’t find basic information like licensing details, game providers, or clear terms of service, that’s usually a sign to avoid the site.

Bonuses for Both Crypto and Fiat Users

Many mixed casinos design their promotions to work for both types of players. You might see:

• Welcome bonuses and free spins for fiat deposits
• Special offers or higher bonus percentages for crypto users

When comparing bonuses, don’t just focus on the biggest numbers. Pay attention to:

• Wagering requirements (how many times you need to play the bonus)
• Which games count toward wagering
• Any maximum cash-out limits

A smaller, fair bonus is usually better than a huge one with conditions that are almost impossible to complete.

Easy Design and Helpful Support

A good casino should feel simple and comfortable to use, not stressful. The best platforms usually offer:

• A clean layout that works well on both desktop and mobile
• Quick access to deposits, withdrawals, and account settings
• Live chat or responsive support that understands both crypto and traditional banking questions

If you’re new to using crypto, a friendly and patient support team can make the whole experience much easier.

Conclusion

In 2026, the best crypto and fiat casinos focus on flexibility, fast payouts, fair games, and clear communication. When choosing where to play, look for platforms that explain things in simple terms, support both your preferred payment methods, and make it easy to withdraw your winnings. With a bit of checking, you can find casinos that feel modern, safe, and truly player-friendly.

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Not so long ago, there was one of those fluorescent player of the match trophies sat on a ledge around the Etihad Stadium’s tunnel area for months on end. Nobody touched it, nobody claimed it.

It just remained there. Unmoved, unloved. The weeks and games went by, hundreds of footballers wandering past. Set some music in the background and it would have looked at home as the protagonist in a morose Christmas advert.

Working out who was its rightful owner should not have been too challenging, given these awards are only commissioned by the Premier League for televised matches.

They do not grace the Saturday 3pm kick-offs, apparently for budgetary reasons. Phil Foden has never understood this. He likes to hoard the trophies at home and is bewildered whenever one isn’t available. That was the case last month, when his brace – goals in the first and last minutes – against Leeds United came during the blackout.

Foden asked where the award was, pestering amused staff. They are beginning to hear more of that at the moment because the 25-year-old’s resurgence, emerging from the wreckage of last season, is becoming a major story of Manchester City’s campaign. To illustrate that, the header against Sunderland on Saturday, meeting Rayan Cherki’s exquisite rabona cross, nudged Foden (109) ahead of Kevin De Bruyne (108) in City’s list of all-time goalscorers.   

Providing he does sign a new contract – there’s 18 months left on his current deal and sources say talks are yet to begin – then Eric Brook’s 177 ought to be in sight. That’ll nestle him under just the current holder Sergio Aguero (260) and, barring disaster, Erling Haaland (145 not out).

Phil Foden beats Antonio Rudiger in the Bernabeu on Wednesday night as his Manchester City side run out 2-1 winners 

Foden has been in fine goalscoring form of late, notching five in a week: two against Leeds, two at Fulham and one against Sunderland on Saturday

Five goals in a week – two against Leeds, two at Fulham before that header against Sunderland – have put a different slant on his form to those on the outside but Foden’s displays have been consistently excellent this term. 

The way he made both goals against Everton in October, without registering an assist, provided a perfect example of a growing influence in a deeper midfield role.

‘Phil will be like a good wine,’ Pep Guardiola said. ‘With time he will get better.’ He discombobulated the Toffees that day with switches of play. Statistics show Foden is utilising those far more this season, pointing to a greater responsibility in getting City moving.

Since Guardiola has pushed Foden slightly further forward in what feels like a lopsided attacking shape, the goals are flowing. And there would be no surprise if we witnessed more of those trademark strikes from the edge of the box, just as he’s done in title deciders and at the Bernabeu in the past. 

Foden’s role at Real Madrid during Wednesday’s victory focused more on occupying space and making Aurelien Tchouameni think twice before engaging higher up the pitch.

City are asymmetrical by design at the moment, Foden often positioned further right of a traditional central midfielder but more infield than a winger, and those are the areas in which he thrives. 

The tactical bits are helping him – Guardiola said after that Everton performance that while his knitting of the game was great, the main aim is to get him up alongside Haaland – but there has also been a distinct shift in Foden’s mood.

It’s undeniable, unquestionable. Those who know him say that he is a completely different person to earlier in the year. Foden’s brain had become foggy during training sessions and stopped him from carrying on, he endured mental health problems. City offered an armoury of psychological expertise and tests. 

His goal against Sunderland last Saturday, his 109th for City, nudged him ahead of Kevin De Bruyne in the club’s list of all-time goalscorers

Pep Guardiola has been vital to Foden’s resurgence. ‘He’s put an arm around the shoulder,’ one source says 

It’s not taboo, it happens across industries, in every walk of life. Just this occupation involves running around in front of 55,000 people twice a week.

Something on Saturday summed up the difference between then and now. After the win, Foden told Guardiola that he had felt unwell all day. ‘Look what happened – how he runs,’ Guardiola said. 

‘Phil, when he’s in this momentum, in this mood, he is a gift. He is a diamond.’ Last year, he probably wouldn’t have made it out onto the pitch when he was under the weather.

Foden has made changes to his inner circle this year, signing with Jonny Hatt’s Hattrick Management and then beginning individual coaching sessions with Jamie Reynolds across the summer. 

Reynolds has long been associated with Jack Grealish and keeps Foden ticking over without impinging on City’s training programmes.

The City midfielder is settled near Northwich in the Cheshire suburbs with his long-term girlfriend Rebecca Cooke and their three young children, the oldest of whom, Ronnie, has become something of an internet sensation courtesy of his videos on Instagram where he has an astonishing 4.2million followers. 

Those close to Foden insist that there hasn’t been any single thing that prompted the upturn. But there is an acceptance that last year was not merely a dip in a young player’s career, because he’s had those before.

Slowly, surely, he has felt better and often that is difficult to quantify. Just being able to jump out of bed or crack a funny in the dressing room. One day becomes two, two to three and as City steadily improved their results, the weight pressing hard against Foden has lifted. He’s laughing that a change in hairstyle has acted as the catalyst for this form. 

Foden with his partner Rebecca and children True and Ronnie – the latter has over four million followers on Instagram

A rejuvenated Foden celebrates scoring against Fulham earlier this month

‘Phil will be like a good wine,’ Guardiola has said of his midfielder. ‘With time he will get better’

Sources say Guardiola is due credit for some of this. City held sheets around Foden to protect him as much as they could and the manager is at the forefront of that. ‘He’s put an arm around the shoulder,’ one source said, believing there is a paternal relationship. 

Foden seems to agree with that, once remarking to Daily Mail Sport that ‘the manager sometimes thinks I’m that little boy, which I don’t mind’. Coincidentally, Guardiola used that exact language recently, praising the ‘ambition and mentality he has had since he was a little boy’ in a press conference.

The thing is, Guardiola knows exactly what Foden was like as a little boy because on day one in 2016, Txiki Begiristain marched him over to the academy pitches to watch their special talent, who was particularly small.

The idiosyncratic nature of the Catalan’s management is all Foden has ever known and the pair do have an understanding. Foden wants to take on a more significant leadership role and with a freer, clearer mind, that feels like a natural progression.

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The 44th edition of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) began in Yola on Thursday with the Federal Ministry of Works on the spotlight as winner of the opening parade.

The games, featuring delegations from federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) from across the country, was declared open Thursday by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, with a procession of the various delegation as the main event of the opening ceremony.

Deputy Governor Kaletapwa Farauta who represented Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, declared the games open, stressing that Adamawa State is proud to provide the stage on which national friendship would be displayed in the next few days.

“Events like this deepen nation building and reminds us that despite our diversity, we have common heritage and national identity,” Farauta said.

The Federal Ministry of Works stole the opening ceremony as the winner of the parade, followed by the Ministry of Education, with the Federal Inland Revenue coming third.

Members of the Works Ministry, clad in native atire, protective outer half jackets and safety helmets, were a spectacle to see, and were rewarded eventually with the winning trophy.

The main games, which comprise field and track events, had started in effect at the sports centre of the Federal College of Education Yola earlier in the week.

The sporting fiesta will end on Tuesday, December 16.

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Morocco have included captain Achraf Hakimi in their final 26-man list for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), even though the star full-back is still recovering from an ankle injury.

Achraf Hakimi, 27, sprained his ankle after being fouled during Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich last month. His fitness has been a major talking point ahead of the tournament, which Morocco will host.

Head coach Walid Regragui, speaking in Washington after last week’s 2026 World Cup draw, struck an optimistic tone about the defender’s recovery. He said: “We hope he (Hakimi) will be available for our first match against the Comoros.”

Morocco will open the competition against the Comoros on 21 December in Rabat. Regragui said the reigning African Player of the Year remained central to his plans. He added: “He is doing better. He is improving. He wants to be here (Morocco). He is our leader, our captain.”

The Atlas Lions have been drawn in Group A alongside the Comoros, Mali and Zambia. The top two sides will progress automatically to the knockout stage, with four of the best third-placed teams also advancing.

Regragui has named a strong squad loaded with established internationals. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui, midfielder Sofyan Amrabat and striker Youssef En-Nesyri are all included.

Morocco will be chasing their second continental title. Their only win came in 1976 when they finished first in a final round-robin format in Ethiopia. Only three nations have won the AFCON on home soil this century: Tunisia, Egypt and the Ivory Coast.

Below is Morocco’s Full Squad For the 2025 AFCON

Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal/KSA), Munir El Kajoui (Renaissance Berkane), El Mehdi Al Harrar (Raja Casablanca)

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA, capt.), Mohamed Chibi (Pyramids/EGY), Jawad El Yamiq (Al-Najma/KSA), Romain Saiss (Al Sadd/QAT), Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal (Rennes/FRA), Nayef Aguerd (Marseille/FRA), Adam Masina (Torino/ITA), Noussair Mazraoui (Manchester Utd/ENG), Anass Salah-Eddine (PSV Eindhoven/NED)

Midfielders: Oussama Targhalline (Feyenoord/NED), Sofyan Amrabat (Real Betis/ESP), Ismael Saibari (PSV Eindhoven/NED), Neil El Aynaoui (Roma/ITA), Bilal El Khannouss (Stuttgart/GER), Azzedine Ounahi (Girona/ESP)

Forwards: Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid/ESP), Ilias Akhomach (Villarreal/ESP), Chemsdine Talbi (Sunderland/ENG), Youssef En-Nesyri (Fenerbahce/TUR), Ayoub El Kaabi (Olympiacos/GRE), Soufiane Rahimi (Al Ain/UAE), Abdessamad Ezzalzouli (Real Betis/ESP), Eliesse Ben Seghir (Bayer Leverkusen/GER)

Standby: Youssef Belammari (Raja), Hamza Igamane (Lille/FRA)

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]

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Former Burnley striker Charlie Austin believes Mohamed Salah still remains the club’s talisman despite his controversial outburst.

The Egypt international was omitted from the squad that travelled to Italy for Tuesday’s 1-0 Champions League win at Inter Milan following a blistering attack on manager Arne Slot and the club hierarchy after being left on the bench for last weekend’s 3-3 draw at Leeds.

However, speaking with Sky Sports, Austin stated that the Egyptian international is an important player in the team and must be reintegrated when he returns from AFCON 2025.

Read Also:Eberl: Karl, Not Salah Is Bayern Munich Priority

“After this time, I don’t see why he doesn’t play for Liverpool again after AFCON. He’s Liverpool’s talisman, he is Liverpool’s best player.

“He needs to be involved in the club. Liverpool going on a poor run of form is solely on Salah, no surprise.

“But also, let’s be very clear: a lot of Liverpool players will be happy that Salah has taken the flak.”

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Tino Livramento is set to delay any decision on a new contract until nearer the end of the season.

Informal talks have taken place this month and sporting director Ross Wilson has a good relationship with all involved, but Livramento’s camp are minded to wait before committing to a new deal.

His current terms expire in 2028 and there is a want from Newcastle’s end to extend the length of his stay with an improved package, given his form and emergence as an England international.

The 23-year-old, who has won three caps for his country, is happy on Tyneside and recognises the improvement made under Eddie Howe and his coaching staff. But with Manchester City retaining a strong interest, there is a feeling that the player will leave his options open for the time being. 

City are known to have done extensive scouting work on Livramento and, with Pep Guardiola using midfielder Matheus Nunes and centre half Abdukodir Khusanov at right back this season, an approach is expected in 2026.

Should Newcastle recover their league position to finish in the Champions League places, Livramento could determine that a new deal and continued development at St James’ Park is the best way forward. For now, dialogue remains open, but the defender’s long-term future is uncertain.

Manchester City retain a strong interest in Tino Livramento, and there is a feeling that the player will leave his options open for the time being

Livramento has become a key man for Newcastle and won three England caps since moving to Tyneside in 2023

French star on Toon radar 

Newcastle’s scouting team are keen on Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois, and are keeping close tabs ahead of the January and summer transfer windows.

Nothing is active in terms of an approach, but the recruitment team have watched the 21-year-old closely and have been taken by his technical skill and tenacity. He is said to be comfortable on the ball, hard-working and athletic, with the attributes to play across the midfield.

Bournemouth, a club renowned for unearthing gems from the continent in recent years, tried to sign Guadeloupe-born Danois in the summer but had an offer of around £10million rejected. His development has continued in Ligue 1 this season and the France Under 21 international scored his first goal of the campaign during last weekend’s 3-1 win over Metz.

AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit remains Newcastle’s top midfield target, but given the competition for the 19-year-old, work is being done on others of a similar profile with a high ceiling for improvement.

Kevin Danois celebrates scoring his first goal of the season last weekend, for Auxerre in their 3-1 win over Metz

Howe’s winning formula for the derby

Eddie Howe will replicate what he hopes is a winning formula in preparation for Sunday’s derby against Sunderland.

It was two weeks ago at Everton that Newcastle recorded their first away win of the Premier League season, on the back of a midweek Champions League fixture in Marseille.

Howe made a tweak to the normal schedule by training the day after the game, despite returning to the UK in the early hours. He then allowed his players a full day of rest two days out from the trip to Merseyside. They responded with a 4-1 victory.

And Confidential can reveal Howe is sticking to a winning formula. Newcastle’s players trained on Thursday after getting to bed at around 3am following the flight back from Leverkusen. They will be given Friday off before training on Saturday.

Rather than stay in a hotel, the squad will be at home on Saturday night before travelling to the Stadium of Light by coach from the club’s training ground.

Sunday will be the first Premier League derby since 2016, and Newcastle are aiming to end a 14-year wait for a league victory over their rivals – having also beaten them 3-0 in the FA Cup in January 2024.

Ryan Taylor’s winner in August 2011 remains the most recent time that Newcastle beat Sunderland in a league game

Though they did seal a euphoric and comprehensive 3-0 victory in the FA Cup third round two seasons ago

Tindall’s tipples 

Jason Tindall is among the investors in a new cafe and wine bar that is likely to prove popular with Newcastle’s players and staff.

Say When on Gosforth High Street opened last weekend with assistant boss Tindall joined by the likes of Harvey Barnes, Fabian Schar and Aaron Ramsdale.

The eatery is located in the upmarket Gosforth suburb that is home to several of the Magpies contingent. Indeed, the likes of Sandro Tonali, Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman and others are regularly seen in coffee shops and restaurants in the area.

But maybe it will be that Tindall pulls rank and makes Say When their first port of call from now on…

The drinks are on Jason Tindall (right) after he invested in a new cafe and wine bar

Pope’s still No 1  

Howe will give serious consideration to starting Nick Pope at the Stadium of Light, should the goalkeeper prove his fitness in the next 48 hours.

The word all week has been that Pope has a good chance of recovering from a groin problem in time for the trip to Wearside.

He suffered the injury the day before the trip to Everton on November 29, when there was speculation that he could be dropped for Ramsdale. It is thought Pope would have started had he been fit.

Ramsdale has deputised during the last four matches and Newcastle are unbeaten in that time. However, if Pope is available, there is a strong chance the No 1 will be restored to the starting XI.

Meanwhile, Newcastle will know more on the extent of Joelinton’s groin injury picked up at Leverkusen in the next 24 hours, but the feeling was he should be OK. Likewise Yoane Wissa, who could only manage a few minutes in Germany after being hit by illness this week.

Botman, Trippier, Emil Krafth and Will Osula remain sidelined.

Aaron Ramsdale (left) has started Newcastle’s last four games since Nick Pope (right) suffered a groin injury and they are unbeaten in that time 

Murphy’s lure?

Newcastle defender Alex Murphy is set for talks with the club over the possibility of heading out on loan in January.

The 21-year-old has been around the squad all season but has managed just a few minutes of action, during the Carabao Cup win over Bradford in September.

Murphy spent the second half of last season on loan at Bolton and there is a feeling among some that his development would be aided by again playing matches in the EFL.

The concern for Howe would be that Murphy provides cover at left back, where Lewis Hall is currently first-choice and building fitness after injury.

Alex Murphy (left) has been in and around the first team without getting much game time this season

TOON TEASER

Finally, it’s Toon Teaser time.

Our last puzzler, ahead of the trip to Everton, was… name the SIX direct transfers between the clubs since 1992-93 (it did not include Dan Gosling, who was a free agent after leaving Everton).

The answers were; Peter Beardsley, Duncan Ferguson, Anthony Gordon, Marc Hottiger, Alessandro Pistone and Gary Speed.

This week, can you name the NINETEEN players to have appeared for Newcastle and Sunderland since 1992-93? I really struggled with this one…

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Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has unveiled a powerful 28-man squad for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations.

Regragui included some of the country’s biggest stars including Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, Sofyan Amrabat, and striker Youssef En-Nesyri in the squad.

Hakimi, who is still recuperating from an ankle is expected to miss the opening matches.

Notable stars like Noussair Mazraoui, Brahim Diaz, Nayef Aguerd and Ayoub El Kaabi also made the list.

One name missing from the main squad is Sofiane Diop, who was involved in November’s fixtures but has been omitted.

Morocco are drawn in Group A with  Comoros, Mali and Zambia.

The Atlas Lions will face Comoros in the competition’s opening game on Sunday, 21 December.

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Are you seeking the latest Complete Sports updates from? Do you follow the Super Eagles”on their journey to AFCON 2025? Stay informed with all the top stories and analysis! 🤔⚽

Topics Discussed in Video;
* Super Eagles Of Nigeria Set For Pre-AFCON Friendly Match Against The Pharaohs Of Egypt
* Will the friendly game against Egypt test the mettle of the Eagles ahead of the tournament in Morocco?
* Stanley Nwabali Doubtful For AFCON 2025 With Injury

Related: Assessment Of The Super Eagles’ 2025 AFCON Provisional Squad List

USEFUL LINKS

Le Roy: Senegal, Not Nigeria Are Second Big Favourite To Win AFCON 2025
✅ https://www.completesports.com/le-roy-senegal-not-nigeria-are-second-big-favourite-to-win-afcon-2025/

AFCON 2025: FIFA’s Decision To Allow European Clubs Release African Players On December 15 Unfair –Broos
✅ https://www.completesports.com/afcon-2025-fifas-decision-to-allow-european-clubs-release-african-players-on-december-15-unfair-broos/

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Champions League football continued on Wednesday and delivered unforgettable drama across Europe as Arsenal maintained their perfect record, Manchester City stunned Real Madrid at the Bernabéu, and Newcastle United suffered yet another crushing late blow.

Elsewhere, Paris Saint-Germain were held in Bilbao, Benfica and Juventus boosted their qualification chances, Ajax finally won in thrilling fashion, while Dortmund and Copenhagen battled through high-stakes showdowns of their own.

Below are the full match reports, each complete with every detail from a breathtaking round of fixtures.

Madueke Double Fires Arsenal to Seal Knockout Spot

Arsenal cruised to a dominant 3-0 win at Club Brugge to maintain their 100% Champions League record and all but secure their place in the knockout phase.

Mikel Arteta made five changes following the weekend defeat at Aston Villa, and one of those incoming players, Noni Madueke delivered a stunning opener.

The England winger shrugged off a defender before unleashing a rocket from 20 yards that cannoned off the crossbar and in.

Club Brugge came close to equalising before half-time, but David Raya denied Christos Tzolis and Aleksandar Stankovic with sharp reaction saves.

Just two minutes into the second half, Madueke struck again — this time heading in Martin Zubimendi’s perfect cross.

Gabriel Martinelli added the third in the 56th minute with a beautiful curling effort to seal the victory.

Arsenal host Wolves on Saturday at 20:00 GMT.

Major Returns & Debut Appearances

There was more good news for Arsenal:

• Gabriel Jesus made his first appearance in 332 days after recovering from an ACL injury.

• 16-year-old Marli Salmon made his first-team debut.

• Jesus almost capped the night with a goal, but his late strike clipped the bar.

Manchester City Sink Real Madrid at Bernabeau

Manchester City came from behind to beat Real Madrid 2-1 in their latest Champions League clash, increasing the pressure on Xabi Alonso after another damaging defeat for Los Blancos.

Madrid Strike First, City Hit Back

After Federico Valverde’s free-kick went close early on, Madrid struck through Rodrygo, who rifled home after receiving a cross-field ball from Jude Bellingham.

City equalised seven minutes later as academy left-back Nico O’Reilly poked in following Thibaut Courtois’ failed clearance of Josko Gvardiol’s header.

On the verge of half-time, Erling Haaland converted a penalty after Antonio Rüdiger bundled him over — his 55th Champions League goal.

Madrid pushed in the second half, with Endrick’s header clipping the bar and Bellingham chipping over, but City stood resilient.

Guardiola: “We are not ready yet… in February we will be better.”

Pep Guardiola insisted City must remain grounded, telling reporters:

“We’ve been here many times in the past five years, we’ve played many battles against them, but we’ve played much better and not won, this is the reality.”

“We are not ready (yet). We are far away. In February we will be better.”

“Don’t misunderstand me, winning at the Bernabeu is a big, big task. But at the same time, whatever the results look like, for the level to arrive to the semi-finals, it’s not enough.”

Alonso on the Brink

According to reports, Real Madrid head coach, Xabi Alonso’s chances of surviving as coach are “slim,” and another Real Madrid board meeting is expected imminently.

Next Fixtures:

• Real Madrid → away to Alavés, Sunday 20:00 GMT

• Man City → away to Crystal Palace, Sunday 14:00 GMT

Newcastle United Crushed Again by Leverkusen’s Late Strike 

Newcastle were seconds away from a huge Champions League win, but Alex Grimaldo struck in the 88th minute to rescue a 2-2 draw for Bayer Leverkusen.

This is the second consecutive late heartbreak for Eddie Howe’s side.

Leverkusen took the lead via Bruno Guimarães’s own goal after Andrich beat Sandro Tonali to a header from Aleix Garcia’s corner.

Mark Flekken gifted Newcastle a penalty after a disastrous attempt to play out from the back.
Anthony Gordon calmly converted for 1-1.

Minutes later, Gordon hit the post before assisting Lewis Miley, who made history as Newcastle’s youngest-ever Champions League scorer.

Leverkusen Break Magpies’ Hearts Late

Ibrahim Maza combined beautifully with Grimaldo, who swept home the equaliser from inside the box.

Newcastle drop to 12th in the standings.

What’s Next?

• Newcastle → Wear–Tyne derby vs Sunderland, Sunday 14:00 GMT

• Leverkusen → host Cologne, Saturday 17:30 GMT

PSG Held to Goalless Draw by Brave Athletic Club

PSG dominated but couldn’t find a breakthrough in a frustrating 0-0 draw away at Athletic Club.

Fabian Ruiz missed two big chances, Senny Mayulu was denied twice by Unai Simon, and Bradley Barcola smashed a shot against the crossbar.

Athletic’s only shot on target came late through Asier Hierro.

PSG stay inside the top eight by a single point.

Benfica Beat Napoli to Keep Play-Off Hopes Alive

Benfica earned a crucial 2-0 win at home to Napoli, securing back-to-back victories in the competition under José Mourinho.

Richard Rios opened the scoring after Napoli failed to clear a cross.

He then assisted Leandro Barreiro, who expertly diverted in a near-post finish early in the second half.

Napoli’s Scott McTominay headed wide late on as Benfica held firm.

Juventus See Off Pafos to Boost Last-16 Chances

Juventus beat Pafos 2-0 thanks to second-half goals from Weston McKennie and Jonathan David. Pafos hit the post through Anderson Silva but fell away after the break.

Juve climb to 17th with nine points.

Ajax Finally Claim First Champions League Win

Ajax came from behind twice to beat Qarabağ 4-2 in Baku, their first win after five straight defeats.

Late Goal Rush

• Oscar Gloukh made it 2-2 with a brilliant strike.

• Anton Gaaei smashed a first-time finish for 3-2.

• Gloukh sealed it with a 90th-minute low finish.

Ajax remain unlikely to reach the top 24 but avoid bottom spot for now.

Dortmund Slip as Bodo/Glimt Twice Fight Back for 2-2 Draw

Julian Brandt opened the scoring and later restored Dortmund’s lead, but goals from Haitam Aleesami and Jens Petter Hauge earned Bodo/Glimt a valuable draw.

Dortmund sit just outside the top eight with 11 points.

Copenhagen Shock Villarreal with Last-Minute Winner

A dramatic last-minute finish from Andreas Cornelius secured Copenhagen a vital 3-2 win away to Villarreal.

Elyounoussi and Achouri both scored for the Danish side, while Tani Oluwaseyi briefly levelled for Villarreal, but Cornelius pounced late to win it.

Copenhagen move into play-off contention.

FULL-TIME SCORES – WEDNESDAY 10 DECEMBER

• Qarabağ 2–4 Ajax

• Villarreal 2–3 Copenhagen

• Athletic Club 0–0 PSG

• Bayer Leverkusen 2–2 Newcastle

• Benfica 2–0 Napoli

• Dortmund 2–2 Bodo/Glimt

• Club Brugge 0–3 Arsenal

• Juventus 2–0 Pafos

• Real Madrid 1–2 Manchester City

FULL-TIME SCORES – TUESDAY 9 DECEMBER

• Kairat 0–1 Olympiakos

• Bayern Munich 3–1 Sporting CP

• Atalanta 2–1 Chelsea

• Barcelona 2-1 Eintracht Frankfurt

• Inter Milan 0-1 Liverpool

• Monaco 1-0 Galatasaray
• PSV 2-3 Atletico Madrid
• Tottenham 3-0 Slavia Prague
• Union Saint-Gilloise 2-3 Marseille

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When Paul Warne walked through the doors at MK Dons in mid-April, he took over a club staring at the abyss.

Sitting precariously in 19th in League Two, the Dons had endured a hugely disappointing campaign under Mike Williamson and then Scott Lindsey, and faced the unthinkable prospect of dropping out of the Football League for the first time since their formation in 2004. Lindsey, poached from League One Crawley Town just months earlier, had presided over a run of 11 losses in 16 games. 

It was a season which few predicted. A little under a year before Warne’s arrival, the Dons finished fourth in League Two, before a 5-1 home drubbing by Lindsey’s Crawley sent them crashing out of the play-offs. The club evidently struggled to recover from such a resounding defeat and Lindsey could not transfer his magic touch. 

But the appointment of Warne was an ambitious one. This was a manager who’d been at Championship side Derby County only two months earlier, with four Football League promotions to his name. Under his guidance, the Dons tightened up and avoided the drop, with four clean sheets from four to finish the campaign. It was a sign of things to come.

Now, sitting fifth in League Two and six points off the top, there’s only one ambition for MK Dons – to win the title. 

‘I think we’ve actually underperformed,’ says striker Callum Paterson, a former Scotland international who joined from Sheffield Wednesday in the summer. ‘All the boys are on the same wavelength as me, but to be sitting where we are in the league is good. 

When Paul Warne arrived at MK Dons in mid-April, he took over a club facing the dreaded prospect of dropping out of the Football League

But just eight months on and the Dons find themselves fifth in League Two and targeting promotion

Forward Callum Paterson has been key to the club’s success after signing from Sheffield Wednesday in the summer

‘There’s a lot of room for improvement and the aim is to win the league, to get this club back to where it deserves to be.’ 

Paterson has been a crucial part of the Dons’ success story so far this season, scoring five and assisting five on a run which has seen the club lose just two games since mid-September. 

‘It’s been a good start,’ he says of his first few months in Milton Keynes. ‘To go from Sheffield Wednesday, where I wasn’t playing much the last couple of years, to somewhere I’m more appreciated and valued has been good. It’s nice to bring the family down here.’ 

Paterson netted 31 goals in 186 appearances for the Owls but fell out of favour under Danny Rohl, whom he admits he ‘didn’t get on with’ last season. The 31-year-old left the club with offers from the Championship, League One and abroad on the table, which he rejected to make the move south to Milton Keynes. 

The reason for his decision? A convincing coffee with Warne last summer.

‘It was turbulent with the goings-on behind the scenes (at Wednesday) but it was more like, I didn’t get on with the manager, he didn’t value me or appreciate me or have time for anything I wanted to get across. 

‘It was Paul who brought me here. I met him for a coffee in Costa in the off-season and he convinced me to sign.

‘I couldn’t see anyone else giving me that sort of spiel, he was really good at getting his points across. 

‘He told me the aim is to get promoted and win the league and asked if I want to be a part of that journey. Obviously I do. I’ve been promoted from the Championship and League One so it’s time to make it a hat-trick. League One and beyond… I didn’t come here to play League Two football.’

Former Scotland international Paterson was convinced to drop down to League Two by Warne

The Dons boss told Paterson over a coffee that his side would challenge for the title this season

Warne was backed with 10 new recruits in the summer, many of whom boast League One, Championship and even Premier League experience.

Striker Aaron Collins was poached after an impressive stint at Bolton, midfielder Will Collar from high-flying Stockport, while top scorer Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, who played in the top flight for Cardiff, was convinced to make the step down from Derby.

The new additions settled in seamlessly, with the Dons unbeaten in their first five league games. In particular, a thumping 5-0 victory over Cheltenham Town in August laid down a marker. 

A minor blip saw Warne’s side suffer consecutive home losses to Walsall, Grimsby Town and Accrington Stanley but they soon recovered and lost just one league game across October and November.

The confidence and belief in the Dons camp is sky-high. Only this week midfielder Liam Kelly even claimed that most sides in League One would be envious of the club’s strength in depth.

Yet the new recruits put their form down to the work of Warne, who Paterson says treats his players ‘like humans’ rather than commodities.

The 52-year-old former Derby and Rotherham boss runs from the club’s training centre to Stadium MK after every session, just to prove that he’s not a hypocrite for making his squad do the hard yards. 

‘He treats us like humans and we’re all on a level playing field,’ Paterson adds, in a seemingly pointed message to his former manager in Sheffield. ‘The manager isn’t on a pedestal, the staff aren’t above the players or a different entity. 

Dons have lost just two games since mid-September after riding out a blip where they lost three straight home games

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, the club’s top scorer, has bagged seven league goals this term

‘We’re all sort of one team. The way that he speaks to us is like he’s one of our team-mates and we can speak to him back. He’s approachable and will take in whatever you suggest.’ 

Warne’s Dons are a far more direct, but effective, side than they were last term under Williamson and Lindsey. The 231 successful passes per 90 they average is over 200 fewer than last season and their possession stats have dropped by some 10 percentage points from the 59 per cent they boasted in 2024-25.

The change in style suits Warne’s preferred front two of Mendez-Laing and Paterson down to a tee. It’s little surprise that with that duo up top, who played together in the Premier League for Cardiff, the Dons have scored more League Two goals (37) than anyone.

‘We have a great partnership,’ Paterson says. ‘He’s been at three of the four clubs I’ve played for in my career, so it made the move here more appealing for sure. 

‘Being a nine or a 10 in this team, you’re a focal point of Warne’s philosophy – getting the ball in the box and creating opportunities for the strikers. On a personal note, I’m not far off 100 career goals now, which has been an aim for me for a while. So that’s the goal now.’

In a game which Warne felt his side were unlucky to lose, the Dons missed a golden opportunity to go top of the table on Tuesday night at Notts County. 

With a crucial festive period on the horizon, Dons are vying to prove they’re not going to play things safe

The defeat comes at a tricky time, given the daunting fixture list that the Dons face before the end of the year, in which they will play three of the top six.

Yet it’s a challenge which the club’s ambitious new cohort plan to tackle head first. After all, these are the games which will determine their fate come the start of May.

‘We’ve got plenty of ways of playing and we need to turn it up a notch,’ Paterson insists. 

‘We need to put a marker down and let everyone know that we’re not here to play things safe.’

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