Roger Federer is coming back to US Open four years after retirement, set for two blockbuster matches US Open confirmed Roger Federer's return on Sunday, and he will be joined by three other tennis greats Published on: Aug 24, 2026, 13:25:16 IST Written by Aratrick Mondal Prefer HTon Google Share
Nerves cost us against Australia, but I'm proud of the team: women's hockey coach: Marijne Nerves cost us against Australia, but I'm proud of the team: women's hockey coach: Marijne Published on: Aug 24, 2026, 13:09:14 IST PTI Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link Amstelveen
After seventh seed Victor Lai fell in three games to ninth seed Alex Lanier at the 2026 BWF World Championships in New Delhi, the former described the Frenchman as a ‘beast’, lauding his physical fitness and tenacity to go the distance and play the long game
India men’s football team will face Panama in a FIFA international friendly in September, ahead of another friendly against five-time FIFA World Cup winners Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. According to a report by The Times of India, the match between India and the North American side is
Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin has ruled himself out of the running to replace Gianni Infantino, but says he expects a candidate to challenge the Fifa president's leadership in March. Infantino has faced calls to step down after he scrapped a controversial plan to sell off stakes in Fifa's
PL’s edge blunted as LaLiga continues to dictate tempo and control in UCL
Premier League’s edge blunted as La Liga continues to dictate tempo and control in Champions League
Premier League’s edge blunted as La Liga continues to dictate tempo and control in Champions League
Updated on: Mar 25, 2026 6:08 AM IST By Aditya Maheshwari Share via Copy link Premier League may be the most competitive, but La Liga’s technical edge outclasses it in the UEFA Champions League. (Reuters Images) Key Takeaways Summary is AI-generated The Premier League is celebrated for its competitiveness but struggles in the UEFA Champions League, where it has only won six titles this century compared to La Liga's eleven. Recent performances highlight this gap, as Premier League teams like Newcastle, Manchester City, Tottenham, and Chelsea were outplayed by Spanish clubs and PSG. The Premier League must adapt to bridge this divide. The Premier League is widely regarded as one of the toughest competitions in world football, with several teams capable of pushing for the title and financial strength with lenient FFP, as compared to leagues like La Liga. Its structure provides slightly more flexibility, helping maintain a competitive balance. The tempo is unforgiving, demanding consistency and focus across a long season where even brief lapses can prove costly. Big clubs are often punished for dropping their standards, which adds to the league’s unpredictability. That competitive edge was on full display during the 2015–16 season, when Leicester City defied all odds to win the title. Guided by Claudio Ranieri, the team relied on the brilliance of Riyad Mahrez, Jamie Vardy and N'Golo Kante, who consistently delivered in decisive moments. In contrast, leagues such as La Liga have largely been dominated by FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, with Atletico Madrid occasionally breaking that pattern. Similarly, Bundesliga and Ligue 1 have seen prolonged spells of dominance from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. However, despite its competitiveness, Premier League sides have not always translated that edge into consistent success in the UEFA Champions League, where Spanish and other European heavyweights have often had the upper hand. ALSO READ: Champions League talking points: English giants torn apart, Salah’s madness defines night; are Madrid the team to beat? In the 21st century, Premier League clubs have lifted the Champions League trophy only six times, a figure that underlines their relative struggles in Europe. In contrast, Spanish giants FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have combined for 11 titles, with Real Madrid alone accounting for 7, more than all Premier League clubs combined in the same period. In the ongoing UEFA Champions League, the gap has been hard to ignore, with four Premier League sides crashing out in the round of 16. FC Barcelona dismantled Newcastle United 8-3 on aggregate, while Real Madrid, even in a dip, outplayed favourites Manchester City. Atletico Madrid brushed aside Tottenham Hotspur, and Paris Saint-Germain comfortably beat Chelsea. The results have underlined how La Liga sides and PSG have operated a level above their Premier League counterparts this season. While Premier League sides carried their trademark intensity into the UEFA Champions League, it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap. They were consistently outplayed by the technical quality and control of La Liga teams, who dictated games with composure. At the same time, Paris Saint-Germain, under Luis Enrique, showcased a clear tactical structure that exposed Premier League sides, underlining the growing gulf at the highest level.Premier League clubs struggle vs Barcelona, Real Madrid
While many Premier League loyalists backed Newcastle United to trouble FC Barcelona, the contest quickly slipped away. Hansi Flick’s side ran riot at Camp Nou, sealing a crushing 7-2 win. Newcastle showed some resistance early on and tried to stay in the contest during the first half, but after the break, they had no answers. Barcelona’s relentless press and sharp movement left them chasing shadows, with Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal constantly threatening and creating openings almost every time they surged forward. A similar pattern unfolded in the clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side arrived as favourites, but things quickly slipped out of their control. At the Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid dominated proceedings and secured a 3-0 win, with Federico Valverde delivering a stunning hat-trick. In the return leg, Madrid stuck to a clear plan, keeping Erling Haaland quiet and sealing a 2-1 victory to complete a commanding performance across both ties. It was no different for Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Up against Atlético Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, both Premier League sides struggled to keep pace. Atletico controlled the tempo with ease, while PSG, under Luis Enrique, imposed their structure and intensity, leaving little doubt about the gulf on the night. All of these points point to a clear pattern, while the Premier League thrives on pace and intensity, that alone hasn’t been enough in the UEFA Champions League. Teams from La Liga and clubs like Paris Saint-Germain have looked more composed on the ball and better organised without it. Unless Premier League sides adjust and find answers to that level of control, the same story is likely to repeat, with European contests continuing to highlight the difference. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Aditya Maheshwari Aditya Maheshwari is a Chief Content Producer and sports journalist with over seven years of experience covering the sports beat across formats and platforms. A cricket-first reporter by profession, he also follows football closely and considers it an integral part of his sporting journey. His work is shaped by a strong on-ground understanding of the game and an ability to translate match-day moments into clear, engaging stories that connect with readers across digital audiences. Over the years, he has developed a balanced approach that combines factual accuracy with narrative clarity, ensuring that both breaking developments and deeper insights are presented with context. Aditya has reported from the field at several major tournaments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup, the Indian Premier League, and the Indian Super League. First-hand coverage of these events has strengthened his ability to read the pulse of high-pressure contests, whether through live reporting, post-match analysis, or long-form storytelling. Working closely around teams, venues, and evolving storylines has helped him develop a strong sense of timing and editorial judgment. While cricket remains his primary focus, Aditya regularly reports on football and keeps a close watch on other sports such as tennis, hockey, and badminton. His wide-ranging interest allows him to approach stories with broader perspective, understanding how different sporting ecosystems function and evolve. Comfortable in fast-paced digital newsrooms, Aditya is well-versed in modern sports coverage, from live blogs and real-time updates to in-depth analysis and audience-focused storytelling. He believes in keeping sports writing simple, accurate, and grounded, with emphasis on clarity over complexity. At the core of his work lies a commitment to credible reporting and telling stories that go beyond the numbers on the scoreboard, highlighting the people, preparation, and pressure behind every performance.Read More App Exclusive Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series. News / Sports / Football / Premier League’s Edge Blunted As La Liga Continues To Dictate Tempo And Control In Champions League See LessThe Premier League is widely regarded as one of the toughest competitions in world football, with several teams capable of pushing for the title and financial strength with lenient FFP, as compared to leagues like La Liga. Its structure provides slightly more flexibility, helping maintain a competitive balance. The tempo is unforgiving, demanding consistency and focus across a long season where even brief lapses can prove costly. Big clubs are often punished for dropping their standards, which adds to the league’s unpredictability. That competitive edge was on full display during the 2015–16 season, when Leicester City defied all odds to win the title. Guided by Claudio Ranieri, the team relied on the brilliance of Riyad Mahrez, Jamie Vardy and N'Golo Kante, who consistently delivered in decisive moments.
In contrast, leagues such as La Liga have largely been dominated by FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, with Atletico Madrid occasionally breaking that pattern. Similarly, Bundesliga and Ligue 1 have seen prolonged spells of dominance from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.
However, despite its competitiveness, Premier League sides have not always translated that edge into consistent success in the UEFA Champions League, where Spanish and other European heavyweights have often had the upper hand.
ALSO READ: Champions League talking points: English giants torn apart, Salah’s madness defines night; are Madrid the team to beat?
In the 21st century, Premier League clubs have lifted the Champions League trophy only six times, a figure that underlines their relative struggles in Europe. In contrast, Spanish giants FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have combined for 11 titles, with Real Madrid alone accounting for 7, more than all Premier League clubs combined in the same period.
In the ongoing UEFA Champions League, the gap has been hard to ignore, with four Premier League sides crashing out in the round of 16. FC Barcelona dismantled Newcastle United 8-3 on aggregate, while Real Madrid, even in a dip, outplayed favourites Manchester City. Atletico Madrid brushed aside Tottenham Hotspur, and Paris Saint-Germain comfortably beat Chelsea. The results have underlined how La Liga sides and PSG have operated a level above their Premier League counterparts this season.
While Premier League sides carried their trademark intensity into the UEFA Champions League, it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap. They were consistently outplayed by the technical quality and control of La Liga teams, who dictated games with composure. At the same time, Paris Saint-Germain, under Luis Enrique, showcased a clear tactical structure that exposed Premier League sides, underlining the growing gulf at the highest level.
A similar pattern unfolded in the clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side arrived as favourites, but things quickly slipped out of their control. At the Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid dominated proceedings and secured a 3-0 win, with Federico Valverde delivering a stunning hat-trick. In the return leg, Madrid stuck to a clear plan, keeping Erling Haaland quiet and sealing a 2-1 victory to complete a commanding performance across both ties.
It was no different for Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Up against Atlético Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, both Premier League sides struggled to keep pace. Atletico controlled the tempo with ease, while PSG, under Luis Enrique, imposed their structure and intensity, leaving little doubt about the gulf on the night.
All of these points point to a clear pattern, while the Premier League thrives on pace and intensity, that alone hasn’t been enough in the UEFA Champions League. Teams from La Liga and clubs like Paris Saint-Germain have looked more composed on the ball and better organised without it. Unless Premier League sides adjust and find answers to that level of control, the same story is likely to repeat, with European contests continuing to highlight the difference.
Source: HindustanTimes
Related Posts: Premier League vs LaLiga,Real Madrid,Barcelona,Real Madrid vs Manchester City,Barcelona vs Newcastl,UEFA Champions League
Barcelona began their La Liga title defence with a commanding 5-0 victory over Elche on Sunday, with Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scoring twice each and Anthony Gordon setting up two goals on his debut. The result comea a day after Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid defeated Espanyol 2-1 with a late winner
11 hours ago
GCT Grand Finale: Praggnanandhaa beats Keymer to stake his claim for finals GCT Grand Finale: Praggnanandhaa beats Keymer to stake his claim for finals Published on: Aug 24, 2026, 09:43:17 IST PTI Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link St. Louis
11 hours ago
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin may have been vocal in his demand for the current FIFA president Gianni Infantino to step down but he has no interest in replacing the under-fire Swiss. Infantino continues to face pressure to leave his position as world football’s governing body chief following
11 hours ago
The French are known for a lot of things but badminton isn’t one of them. Till Sunday, when the country that has never been considered among the top nations even in Europe created history at the 2026 World championships, in more ways than one
11 hours ago
AITA picked them, the government cut them: Why has India’s Asian Games tennis squad been slashed from 12 to 7? The AITA had originally proposed a 12-member squad for for the Asian Games, which included six women. But the list was slashed down to just seven players. Updated on: Aug 24, 2026
11 hours ago
Ashton Jeanty injury update: Is the Raiders RB out for the season? Doctor reveals possible diagnoses; ‘best case…’ Ashton Jeanty was injured after attempting a catch, prompting a tense silence at the Raiders’ facility before his teammates gathered and knelt in prayer. Updated on: Aug 24
14 hours ago
When Liverpool came to Newcastle last August, there was utter jubilation as Rio Ngumoha scored a remarkable 100th-minute winner. They scored late again this time around, through Dominik Szoboszlai's 99th-minute penalty, but it felt more like a sense of relief than joy as they rescued a point
14 hours ago
'Is Sydney Taylor playing tonight?' Chicago Sky guard's slow start vs Fever sparks injury concerns Sydney Taylor was in Chicago’s starting lineup when the Sky hosted the Indiana Fever on Sunday night. Updated on: Aug 24, 2026, 07:32:12 IST By Ojas Jaiswal Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link
14 hours ago
Yet again, the England men's cricket team is picking through the wreckage of a late-night misdemeanour. The latest stain on the game's reputation is a result of pictures of fast bowler Brydon Carse in handcuffs and surrounded by police officers outside a nightspot in Derby
14 hours ago
Jean-Philippe Mateta is arguing the remainder of his Crystal Palace contract is invalid and has taken his case to Fifa. Multiple sources have told BBC Sport the France international has launched an official challenge over the validity of the final 10 months on his Selhurst Park deal
1 days ago
Bangladesh 64: Starc 6-12 & 95: Shanto 31; Starc 4-39, Cummins 3-10, Lyon 3-25 Mitchell Starc took 10 wickets in the match as Australia bounced back from last week's shock defeat by Bangladesh to win the second Test by an innings and 51 runs and draw the series 1-1. Second Test
1 days ago
Jannik Sinner's absence benefits Carlos Alcaraz: What to expect from the US Open champion after his long injury layoff Jannik Sinner is out, but is it premature to call Carlos Alcaraz the US Open favourite after four months away? Updated on: Aug 23, 2026
1 days ago
US Open leaves Stan Wawrinka out in the cold, denying former champion a wild card for his final Grand Slam The US Open has surprisingly denied Stan Wawrinka a wild card for what could be his final appearance at a Grand Slam. Updated on: Aug 23, 2026
1 days ago
India faced the Netherlands in their Pool E match of the ongoing FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 on Saturday (August 22) at the Wagener Stadium in Amstelveen but suffered a 1-3 defeat. India conceded one goal in the third quarter and two in the fourth quarter to go down against the hosts
1 days ago
There is an uncanny resemblance between Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa’s bronze-medal run at the 2011 BWF World Championships and Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand’s campaign at the 2026 edition. Jwala and Ashwini faced the second-seeded Cheng Wen-hsing and Chien Yu-chin as early as the
1 days ago
Runs on the board and rival wickets, is the template that Dhananjaya de Silva will chase when the second Test commences at the SSC Ground on Sunday (August 23, 2026). “It’s about putting runs on the board. That’s what India did [at Galle]. For the first two days they batted and got 460 runs
1 days ago
Serena Williams returns to US Open after four years, joins Carlos Alcaraz for mixed doubles Serena Williams will return to the US Open for the first time since 2022, partnering Carlos Alcaraz in mixed doubles after receiving a wildcard. Published on: Aug 23, 2026
1 days ago
Roberto De Zerbi may have spent close to £400m by the time his Tottenham Hotspur rebuild is complete – but it took just his side's first Premier League game of the season to prove all the money in the world is no guaranteed cure for a losing mentality
1 days ago
Manchester United's fans had endured a bad enough day on the banks of the River Humber when Hull City's stadium announcer gleefully piped up midway through the second half. Two trains back to Manchester from the city centre station had been cancelled
1 days ago
From a shy girl to team mentor, Savita Punia says hockey changed her life From a shy girl to team mentor, Savita Punia says hockey changed her life Published on: Aug 22, 2026, 12:08:49 IST PTI Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link Amstelveen
2 days ago
Shubhankar makes cut after spectacular ace at Nexo Championship Shubhankar makes cut after spectacular ace at Nexo Championship Published on: Aug 22, 2026, 12:17:58 IST PTI Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link Aberdeenshire , Shubhankar Sharma ended his streak of four missed cuts as he made the
2 days ago
Inter Miami's Lionel Messi has been fined for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during their side's Major League Soccer (MLS) 2-2 draw on Wednesday. Messi, 39, slapped Sullivan around the back of the head towards the end of the game as he complained the Union player had elbowed him after
2 days ago
Premier League champions Arsenal will start the new season with some of the nightmares of the previous two as their marquee signing, midfielder Bruno Guimarães, is not part of the squad due to an injury. Guimarães signed for £75 million (Rs. 979 crore) from Newcastle United and suffered a knock
2 days ago
Nostalgia may have enveloped Sairaj Bahutule when he entered the SSC Ground. He would have remembered his last Test played at the same venue in 2001, a game India lost. The Indian spin-bowling coach, though, quickly immersed himself in the nets here Friday (August 21, 2026)
2 days ago
Lionel Messi fined for slapping opponent on the head as Inter Miami-Philadelphia clash erupts into late red-card chaos Lionel Messi was fined by MLS after slapping Philadelphia's Quinn Sullivan on the head as Inter Miami's 2-2 draw desecended into stoppage-time chaos. Updated on: Aug 22, 2026
2 days ago
Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra managed to deliver his season’s best performance at the Lausanne Diamond League on Friday but fell agonisingly short of the top spot, as Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage finished first with a throw just nine centimetres more than his
2 days ago
Why did Nick Chubb retire? Net worth in focus as NFL player ends career at 30 Nick Chubb played for eight seasons in NFL that included seven years with the Cleveland Browns and one with the Houston Texans. Updated on: Aug 22, 2026, 09:25:09 IST By Shirin Gupta Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link
2 days ago
