Teplice took a slim lead at the top of the league standings edging Sparta Prague on goal difference courtesy of a 2-1 defeat of Plzen.

Saudi big guns Al Hilal continued their perfect Champions League start with a 3-1 win over Iran's Mes Kerman, while Al Sadd blitzed UAE champs Al Ahli 5-0.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has told his players that tomorrow's last-16 first-leg tie against Lille may be their "most important game of the season."

Despite reports, the Côte d'Ivoire Football Federation says that Guus Hiddink has not reached a deal to coach the Elephants at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Burnley ended a run of four successive defeats with a 1-1 draw at home against Stoke City though the Clarets remain entrenched in the relegation zone.

David Beckham hailed Wayne Rooney as among the world's best players as Manchester United put his AC Milan side out of the Champions League.