Ronaldo knows how to create problems for his opponents: Simeone

Messi was amongst the 30 nominees for this year's Ballon d'Or award, with his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo being absent from the list for the fourth successive year.

However, despite the win, which helped them tie with Barcelona (15 points) and consolidate their spot in second place in the table, the Jose Mourinho-managed side continues to face issues regarding defence and keeping their lead.

Jota was killed in a car accident in Zamora, Spain last year in July. Both Neves and Cristiano shared the dressing room for Portugal with the late Liverpool star. Footage circulated on social media on Saturday, showing Neves standing next to his teammate Crysencio Summerville, ready to take a free-kick and chants of 'Jota, Jota, Jota' could be heard at the Al Taawoun's home arena.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho backed star player Vinicius Jr. amid fan backlash, saying that his best is "yet to come" and people throw "stones at a tree which is bearing plenty of fruit".

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has responded to remarks by Royal Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa regarding the country that should host the 2030 FIFA World Cup final, according to Goal.com.