Where champions were made – A short European Round-Up 18-19 May

By admin on May 21, 2013

Italy

Inter were embarrassingly crushed 2-5 at home to Udinese, a result that leaves the Nerazzurri in a feeble 9^th position just three years after their treble. Their opponents however managed to qualify for the Europa League, with Antonio Di Natale yet again scoring. Milan managed to finish above Fiorentina to claim the third and final Champions league place. Late goals from Phillippe Mexes and Mario Balotelli helped the Rossoneri to an away victory against Siena, who were already relegated. They will be joined by Pescara and Palermo in Serie B next year, whilst Sassulo, Hellas Verona and Livorno were promoted to the top division.

Germany

Dortmund defender Mats Hummels should be fit for the Champions league final, but Munich defender Holger Badstuber will continue to miss out as he tore cruciate ligaments in his right knee, whilst recovering from the same injury. Munich could have used the defender, and were lucky to come from behind to win a thrilling derby 4-3 against Borussia Monchengladbach. Schalke won 2-1 at Freiburg to secure a Champions League qualifying place, with Bayer Leverkusen finishing just above them in third.

France

Zlatan Ibrahimovic won the player of the year award and with 29 goals, the PSG forward looks set to also become the top-scorer in Ligue 1. David Beckham marked his last appearance for the capital club by providing the assist for PSG’s second goal, before Zlatan completed his brace to beat relegated Stade Brestois 3-1. With one game to go and two clubs are already relegated, Troyes will have to hope results go their way, as they lie three points behind Sochaux. Elsewhere Lyon beat Nice, to strengthen their grip on third place.

Spain

Real Madrid continue to be linked to former Milan and Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti, but Rafa Benitez’ name has also begun to spring up as a possible number two. On the pitch Real managed to beat Malaga 6-2, with 8 different players getting onto the score-sheet. Elsewhere Champions Barcelona beat Real Valladolid and Valencia beat Getafe.

Will MataFollow @footyfriends