Champions League, day 6

Juande Ramos led Real Madrid to a 3-0 victory over Zenit on his debut on Wednesday night, a result which nevertheless could not take them above group H leaders Juventus after the Italian team drew in the other group game. Raúl scored twice and Robben got the other to consolidate second spot. A depleted Villarreal will also have to make do with being runners up to Manchester United in group F after a 2-0 defeat at Celtic, Maloney and McGeady getting the goals for the Scots in the first half. (10.12.08)

The last round of games of the group stage took place this week, although with all four Spanish sides already qualified for the last sixteen there was little at stake. Barcelona had already assured top spot of group C, and Pep Guardiola used the occasion to give a run out to some of his lesser used players. It didn't quite work out though, the Catalans losing 2-3 against Shakhtar Donetsk to end a run of 20 games without a defeat. Atlético Madrid's concern was more the safety of players and fans in their match at Olympique Marseille after death threats from some hooligan elements, but in the end things were relatively quiet as the game ended without goals. Liverpool's win though means they ended up in second spot in group D. (09.12.08)