The Sport Matrix: Thursday 19 September 2013

Chelsea rolled over by Swiss as Arsenal triumph in France

There were mixed fortunes for the London sides in the Champions League, Chelsea losing 2-1 to Swiss outfit Basel while Arsenal won by the same score in Marseilles.

Jose Mourinho's Chelsea side took the lead on the stroke of half-time in their opening Group E encounter, Oscar finding the far corner from a Frank Lampard pass, only for second-half efforts from Moha-med Salah and Marco Streller to earn a shock away win.

"Basel played well," Mourinho said. "We had a lot of the ball but we couldn't create chances. Emotionally this is not a mature team and when you are in a difficult position it was not enough."

Arsenal prevailed on their travels for the 10th successive match, goals from Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey (above) putting the visitors in front in the Stade Vélodrome before a late penalty from Jordan Ayew.

"We have all these players who can make something special," Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said. "It was a victory linked with patience and experience." MORE

Brave Celtic beaten by Milan late show

A spirited display from Celtic in San Siro ultimately came to nothing as Neil Lennon's side were beaten 2-0 by Milan in the Champions League last night. Emilio Izaguirre deflected into his own net with nine minutes left before Sulley Muntari knocked in a late rebound. MORE

QPR take to the top as Reading win late

Queen's Park Rangers moved top of the Championship last night, despite being held to a goalless draw by Brighton & Hove Albion at Loftus Road. Elsewhere, Sean Morrison scored in the sixth minute of injury time to give Reading a 1-0 win at home over Leeds United. MORE

Britain are handed Davis Cup trip to US

Great Britain were yesterday given a tricky draw on their return to the World Group of the Davis Cup when they were handed an away trip to the United States. The competition's most successful team will welcome Andy Murray and friends in early February. MORE

IRB rules out any Anglo-French cup

The International Rugby Board has suggested it may not sanction a new Anglo-French competition. "We don't think that's in the best interests of the game, a competition such as that," chief executive Brett Gosper warned. "We urge all parties to find common ground." MORE

Cav and Wiggo thrill home support

A thrilling stage win for Mark Cavendish and retention of the gold jersey for Sir Bradley Wiggins made it a great fourth stage of the Tour of Britain for home crowds yesterday. Today's stage takes in 110 miles across the Brecon Beacons. MORE

Durham 62 runs from title triumph

Durham require 62 runs against Nottinghamshire to secure a third County Championship title in six seasons. Paul Collingwood's 88 helped Durham to 256 before Notts were bowled out for 246 in their second innings. Durham were 7-0 at the close. MORE

ICC orders review system shake-up

The future of the Decision Review System was put under more scrutiny as the ICC decided on further investigations. A number of changes have been made elsewhere, including Test teams having their referrals topped up after 80 overs. MORE

Woods aiming to end year in style

Tiger Woods is targeting a sixth victory of 2013 and a $10m pay day as he begins the final event of the year, the FedEx Cup, in Atlanta today. "I'm looking forward to the week," the world No 1 said. "I'd like to get a sixth win. I'm in a good spot." MORE

Arc 'perfect' for Al Kazeem, says Doyle

James Doyle believes Longchamp will be the ideal trip and track for Al Kazeem at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe next month. "I walked the whole of the track and thought it would be perfect," he said. MORE

Life beyond the Premier League

Tranmere's Ian Goodison is 41 in November, yet takes a laid-back approach to longevity. He only took up yoga last month, is averse to ice baths, and still dines at McDonald's. MORE