Arsenal crashed out of the Women's FA Cup on Sunday, suffering a shock 2-0 defeat at home to Brighton. The Gunners came into the game in flying form, winning 11 of their last 12 games, with that defeat coming last time out in a Champions League quarter-final second leg at Chelsea in midweek that didn't stop them progressing into the last four. But the Seagulls showed no fear, starting fast against the reigning European champions before making their chances count after the break, as goals from Madison Haley and Caitlin Hayes put them into the FA Cup semi-finals.
Vinicius Junior’s long-standing rivalry with Pablo Maffeo reached a boiling point once again during Real Madrid’s disappointing 2-1 defeat to Mallorca on Saturday. The Brazilian winger was subjected to persistent provocations as Los Blancos saw their La Liga title hopes suffer a significant blow away from home.
Leon Goretzka has opened up on his decision to remain at Bayern Munich during the January transfer window despite heavy interest from several European heavyweights, including Premier League leaders Arsenal. With Bayern still competing on three fronts, the 31-year-old is focused on adding more trophies to his cabinet before his contract situation reaches a head in the summer.
Manchester City winger Antoine Semenyo has been left in awe of Rayan Cherki's technical ability, and described the Frenchman as "one of the world's best" after the pair inspired Manchester City to a statement victory over Liverpool. The duo were in scintillating form at the Etihad Stadium as Pep Guardiola’s side secured their place in the FA Cup semi-finals with a 4-0 rout.
Marcus Rashford has taken a significant step toward making his stay at Barcelona permanent following a commanding performance in the win over Atletico Madrid. The Manchester United loanee, who has revitalised his career in La Liga, proved to be the difference-maker as the Blaugrana continue to weigh up their summer transfer options.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a scathing assessment of his side's mental fortitude following their bruising 4-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of Manchester City. The dejected skipper suggested that his team-mates may have actually stopped fighting as Erling Haaland and company ran riot at the Etihad Stadium.
Liverpool have been warned that replacing Mohamed Salah with just one player is an "impossible" task. Former England winger Chris Waddle stated that it will be difficult for the Reds to recruit a replacement for Salah, as there are currently few players with the striker's abilities. Waddle suggested Liverpool should sign two players at once, such as Three Lions duo Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon.