Europa League reaction as it happened

1. Tottenham through after first-half invasions
2. Match halted for 10 minutes
3. Celtic qualify despite defeat
4. Everton win group with fine win

With a round of Europa League group matches to go, the British clubs still involved in the competition can take it easy. Tottenham still have the top spot to play for, despite being through, but Celtic are certain to finish second and Everton have won their group.

That will be an exciting group of matches then...

Thanks for your company and enjoy the rest of your evening. Cheerio.

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Tottenham Hotspur on Twitter: "Three pitch invaders at tonight's match have been arrested and are assisting police with their enquiries. We shall provide an update as soon as we have established the full facts. We apologise to fans for the disruptions caused by this totally unacceptable behaviour."

Richard Conway

BBC Sport

"BBC Sport understands UEFA's control and disciplinary body are highly likely to review the three 'sponsored' pitch invasions at White Hart Lane tonight.

"The incidents resulted in the referee removing the players from the pitch after 41 minutes of the Europa League tie between Spurs and Partizan. It leaves Tottenham facing the prospect of a financial and/or sporting punishment.

"Any announcement on a disciplinary hearing will only come after the referee's report has been reviewed by UEFA."

A week to remember

A great night for British clubs in Europe then. Celtic, Tottenham and Everton all through to the knockout stages with a game to spare. Granted, it would appear difficult to not qualify from the group stages of this competition but they have done their jobs.

In fact, what a week it has been for British clubs. Liverpool and Celtic are the only two clubs to not win this week. It didn't matter for Celtic but Liverpool still have a job on their hands in the Champions League.

Who said the Premier League lacked quality?

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Former Celtic striker John Hartson

Celtic should be getting a result at home at such an important stage of the group. Tactics should assure that happens. 1 man chooses tactics!!

Deila stays positive

Celtic are also through to the last 32 of the Europa League despite a 3-1 home loss to group winners Red Bull Salzburg.

Manager Ronny Deila said: "We are happy to be going through but we wanted to do it ourselves. We opened the game very poorly but showed courage to come back and I'm proud of the second half; we really put them under pressure. Salzburg has shown themselves a very good team and the best teams are going through."

"Everything is possible. If we can handle this team (Salzburg) that is the level we need to be at."

You didn't quite handle them though did you Ronny?

Martinez praises Everton

A reminder that earlier in the evening, Everton ensured they qualified for the last 32 as group winners with an impressive 2-0 win in Wolfsburg.

Manager Roberto Martinez said: "On the transition we were lethal and every time we broke we looked really threatening.

"The two centre-halves (Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin) and (goalkeeper) Tim Howard were outstanding, and I think the shape of the team helped those three to be at their best.

"We have been getting on with our season on the quiet and I think Romelu Lukaku has been exactly the same. We are building something special going into the second half of the season. That is our objective."

AFP

When it rains...

EPA

You think the weather is bad enough in England at the moment, spare a thought for those in Portugal. Estoril's Europa League match at home to PSV Eindhoven was abandoned with the hosts leading 3-2 at half time. It will re played tomorrow afternoon.

Player reaction

Tottenham goal scorer Benjamin Stambouli on ITV4: "It was very good to score and win. It is only positive things for us. We play good teams who love to fight and we need to improve.

"My celebration (a salute) was for all military round the world. They fight for peace."

PA

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Matt Roller: Soldado has something like Torres going on. Transition from comically bad to everyone wishing him well, but still dreadful.

Some Body: How do Spurs contrive NOT to score with all these open goals??? Lamela has no right foot? Seriously? On a plate.

BBC

Tottenham may have taken a while to get going but, as the graphic shows above, the win was more than deserved. They dominated possession and had 19 shots on goal, it's just a shame for them so many of their efforts were off target.

Spurs were pretty poor for the opening 45 minutes but an improved second-half display and Benjamin Stambouli's first goal for the club ensure the hosts qualify for the Europa League knockout stages. You get the feeling a lot of the headlines though will be about the first-half pitch invasions that saw the match suspended for 10 matches. That won't be the last Spurs hear of that.

FULL-TIME

Tottenham join Everton and Celtic in the last 32 of the Europa League with one group match still to go.

PA

PENALTY APPEAL

How isn't that a penalty? Harry Kane appears to be pole axed in the penalty area but a corner is given. From the resulting kick Erik Lamela sees a curling effort expertly tipped over by Milan Lukac.

PA

Three minutes of added time. Spurs are heading through to the last 32 with a game to spare.

Spurs should extend their lead. Benjamin Stambouli races clear on goal but, with just goalkeeper Milan Lukac to beat, he opts to pass to Erik Lamela. The pass sends his teammate far too wide and he can only slide the ball back across goal. Stambouli has to shoot there.

BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: Celtic's second-half revival fell short, although Salzburg's late third goal wasn't reflective of the balance of play. Celtic will need to improve to go further in the Europa League, but they have at least made the knockout stages despite losing to Salzburg. Much work still to do for the manager Ronny Deila.

A brilliant save from Hugo Lloris to keep Spurs ahead. Vladimir Volkov's header looks destined for the back of the net but Lloris sticks out his hand to keep it out at point blank range. Stunning.

Harry Winks is given a Spurs debut as he replaces Paulinho in midfield..

DISALLOWED GOAL

Harry Kane slots nonchalantly into the net but is rightly flagged offside.

FULL-TIME

Celtic may have lost to group leaders Salzburg but their qualification to the last 32 is secured as Dinamo Zagreb lose to Astra Giurgiu 1-0. They will take it.

Reuters

GOAL

Salzburg stretch their lead as a low shot from Sabitzer is saved by Craig Gordon's outstretched leg and the ball loops up for Keita to nod into an unguarded net.

Tottenham are now just popping the ball about as they look to play out time. It very much looks like job done with 10 minutes remaining.

Elsewhere in Europe

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Pablo Osvaldo has scored for Inter and they are now leading 2-1 against Dnipro, although they have been reduced to 10 men. A win for Inter will secure first place in Group F.

After trailing, Zurich are now beating Apollon 3-1 in Group A and they will remain in contention for a top-two finish going into the final round of fixtures. Borussia Monchengladbach, who were trailing, are now drawing 2-2 at Villarreal and a win for the German side will ensure they win the group.

Tottenham haven't got this match won quite yet as Partizan still come forward now and again. With Besiktas drawing 2-2 at Asteras Tripolis, Spurs would go top ahead of their final group game against Besiktas. Both sides would be through.

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Paul Moore: Soldado DVD box set available for xmas. A Tolkien Trilogy of scuffs, stumbles & near misses, with Benny Hill background music.

Mark Crowther: I'm pretty sure Sol Campbell had a better record up front to dear Roberto Soldado..

Joseph Reade: How many ladders did Roberto Soldado walk under on his way over from Spain? Unluckiest man ever.

PA

There are less than 10 minutes left at Celtic Park, where the Scottish champions are still losing 2-1 to Red Bull Salzburg. Luckily for them, if Dinamo Zagreb stay 1-0 behind at Astera Giurgiu, they will qualify in second place.

Credit to the visitors, they aren't giving up. Zivko Zivkovic gets across to the near post but can only shoot over from Petar Grbic's low cross.

CLOSE!

Close to a second for Spurs. Nice build-up play from Harry Kane to play Paulinho through. He is halted but the ball falls to Erik Lamela, who fires over the bar.

SUBSTITUTION

I'm afraid so. The Spaniard is replaced by an in-form Harry Kane after another frustrating evening. He gets a good ovation from the White Hart Lane faithful who seem desperate for him to be a success in London.

Harry Kane is being readied for Spurs. Another evening without scoring for Roberto Soldado perhaps?

This has been a different Tottenham side from the one who were so devoid of ideas in the opening 45 minutes. They look hungry, capable of creating chances and composed in possession. Mauricio Pochettino must have made a decent team talk to inspire such a transformation.

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Joseph Reade: How many ladders did Roberto Soldado walk under on his way over from Spain? Unluckiest man ever.

Harry Hopwood: Not sure what Pochettino has said to the players at HT but he finally seems to have them playing with more purpose and energy.

Pieter Troffaes: The saddest thing is I think Soldado is a fantastic player and can really add something to this team, but he doesn't score.

Tottenham are on course for the win they need to secure qualification for the last 32, while Celtic also look to be heading through despite losing 2-1 to Salzburg with Dinamo Zagreb losing at Astra.

GREAT SAVE!

At the other end Paulinho has a low skimming shot tipped wide by Milan Lukac. Spurs are building a head of steam now and Robert Soldado should double their lead. Aaron Lennon's chipped pass finds him unmarked with just the keeper to beat but his prodded effort is saved by Lukac. What does Soldado have to do to score?

A chance for Partizan to level. The impressive Danko Lazovic snatches at the ball as it bounces invitingly on the edge of the penalty area. His shot is well wide but a warning for Spurs.

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Richard Head: Soldado is on course to become the John Jensen of Spurs.

Stambouli, who signed from Montpellier in the summer, scores his first goal for the club and finally brings this match to life. A win will guarantee Spurs qualify for the last 32 no matter what the results elsewhere. Should be plain sailing from here shouldn't it?

Reuters

GOAL

That's more like it. Benjamin Stambouli plays a one two with Roberto Soldado to send the striker through on goal. His tidy clipped finish strikes the post and Stambouli is in the right place to fire home. A really nice goal.

AP

KICK-OFF

The second half is under way at White Hart Lane. The first half was suspended after three pitch invasions and you get the feeling any more of the same in the second half and the match could be in danger of being abandoned. Fingers cross we get none of that nonsense in this half.

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Time for Harry Kane from the substitutes bench? You can't imagine Spurs will leave it too long. They may be limping through but they need to be better in front of their own fans.

Stats

Tottenham have had plenty of the ball but just one shot on the target says it all. They have to be more dynamic...

KICK-OFF

A poor first half for Celtic, but over in Romania, it's 0-0 between FC Astra Giurgiu and Dinamo Zagreb. If the results stay the same, Celtic are going through.

They are back playing in Glasgow now.

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Alex: Of course Spurs will get fined for the pitch invasions, and rightly so! 1 pitch invasion is bad, but 3 in 1 game? Poor stadium security!

HALF-TIME

Spurs are heading through as things stand with Besiktas leading at Asteras Tripolis. In, fact if that result stays the same they would even go through in defeat.

That is about all Tottenham fans have to be positive about.

Roberto Soldado makes a nice run down the right channel but his chipped cross is easy for the Partizan defence. Spurs have been poor so far.

Empics

BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: For half an hour, Celtic were lost souls. They were overwhelmed by the swift incisiveness of Salzburg, whose strikers were mobile and dangerous. The 2-0 lead did not flatter the visitors, but Celtic recovers, scoring once and renewing belief. This game is not, yet, out of Celtic's reach, but they need to be more commanding in midfield and more sure-footed at the back.

Follow full live commentary of the Celtic game here.

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Tottenham will be through whatever happens in this match if Besiktas retain their 1-0 lead over Asteras Tripolis in the other match in the group, but it has been highly unsatisfactory from the hosts so far.

Elsewhere in Europe

Estoril, who are battling with PSV for second place in Group E, have turned things around against the Dutch side as two goals in 10 minutes means they now lead 3-2.

Zdravko Kuzmanovic has equalised for Inter against Dnipro, making it 1-1 and, as it stands, securing qualification from Group F. In Group A, leaders Villarreal, who will qualify for the last 32 with a win, are 1-0 up against Borussia Monchengladbach.Zurich - who are third - are beating bottom-of-the-group Apollon.

In Group B, HJK Helsinki need a win to keep themselves in contention and they are winning 1-0 against Copenhagen. Elsewhere, it is still St Etienne 1-1 Qarabag.

KICK-OFF

Under way again at White Hart Lane. Let's hope that is the last we see of any pitch invasions.

HALF-TIME

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The doors are opening to the tunnel area at White Hart Lane and the players are coming back out. We are about to kick off again after the match was suspended due to three pitch invasions.

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Christopher York: At White Hart Lane and the atmosphere is kind of eerie due to the pitch invasions.

Matt Cartwright: 1 person getting on the pitch is stupid but 3? Something not right about that.

Match suspended

No one knows yet when this game is going to get started, or if it is. If it doesn't you fear Tottenham will be in real trouble here with Uefa.

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Scott Maginn: If Spurs get a fine from Uefa for those pitch invaders then the club should take them to court to get them to pay it

Alex Yates: Have Spurs got Liverpool's defence doing the stewarding?

Rob: Amount of faith in Roberto Soldado is running dry, can't take much more of another flop this season, needs to step up.

Match suspended

Both sets of players have gone down the tunnel at White Hart Lane after the referee calls a halt to proceedings. There have been three separate pitch invasions from individual supporters and the teams are taken off for their own safety. The doors are shut and it appears as though the officials are asking for assurances that security can stop it happening again.

Match halted

A third person gets onto the pitch at White Hart Lane and the referee calls the teams off the field.

AP

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Partizan are keeping Spurs honest at the back. Nikola Ninkovic has a shot deflected into Hugo Lloris's hands as the visitors break again all too easily.

Good hit from 25 yards by Benjamin Stambouli but easy for Partizan goalkeeper Milan Lukac. The home fans are beginning to sound a little impatient. Plenty of pretty passing but very little cutting edge.

Partizan Belgrade may already be out but they are giving Spurs a real test this evening. The Serbs have had the two best chances of the match so far. Tottenham need to step this up.

If Besiktas keep hold of the 1-0 lead at Asteras Tripolis, Tottenham will be through anyway but surely they want to do it in style?

AP

GOAL

Completely out of the blue, Celtic are right back in it as Emilio Izaguirre sends a dipping cross into the penalty area for Stefan Johansen to meet first-time near the penalty spot and the Norwegian's shot flies into the bottom corner of the net.

A huge let off for Tottenham. Danko Lazovic's sublime scooped pass catches Vlad Chiriches out and sends Petar Skuletic through on goal but, in attempting to round goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, he goes too wide. His resulting cross just misses the waiting Lazovic.

BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: "Ronny Delia has been grim-faced on the touchline. His Celtic team is being outplayed, particularly in midfield, where Salzburg have taken control.

"The home side's wide players have barley participated, but Salzburg have a narrow formation, which Celtic could take advantage of. First, though, the Celtic defenders need to curtail Alan and Jonathan Soriano, because the Salzburg strikers have been irrepressible so far."

Follow full live commentary of the Celtic game here.

Elsewhere in Europe

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There's been three goals in the opening 15 minutes in the Group E game between Estoril and PSV, with the latter winning 2-1 at the moment. Win for PSV will secure progression to the last 32. Elsewhere, Inter, needing a point to qualify from Group F, are 1-0 down to Ukrainian side Dnipro while the game between St Etienne and Qarabag is 1-1.

This is just plain daft. The match is again halted for a few seconds as a second unwelcome person gets onto the pitch. You can't help but wonder if Uefa will get involved here. Ramifications for Spurs perhaps?

Erik Lamela is causing Partizan problems down their left. He does well to reach the ball at the bye line but his low cross is cleared. A strange atmosphere at White Hart Lane as the fans wait for something to happen.

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Paul Moore: One day, Soldado will go absolutely ballistic. He'll score 7 goals in one game, or go all Michael Douglas in "Falling Down".

Vinny Person: Soldado having another blunder tonight. Hat-trick on the cards? Suppose it's fair value for the money involved with him

Jonny: Stambouli is about as mobile as a bus. Spurs passing well but open to a counter attack

CLOSE!

Roberto Soldado. You should score. Erik Lamela sends in a delicious low cross from the right but the ball bobbles over Soldado's boot as he sticks his foot out to convert.

The match is halted for a minute or two as a pitch invader evades about five stewards.

Tottenham need to step this up as Danko Lazovic flashes a shot just wide of the upright. Still, with results going their way elswhere, they could be through whatever happens this evening.

BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: Another setback for Celtic, and another goal by Alan, only four minutes after he opened the scoring. The striker converted from close range after Andre Ramalho headed on a corner. Salzburg look threatening every time they attack. Celtic need to tighten up.

AFP

Former Newcastle and Chelsea striker Demba Ba puts Besiktas 1-0 ahead at Asteras Tripolis. That means, if that result stays the same, Tottenham are through to the knockout stages whatever happens at White Hart Lane.

While the goals are flying in at Celtic Park - in the wrong end as far as Celtic are concerned - there is little going on at White Hart Lane. Spurs having plenty of the ball but so far are unable to break Partizan's deep defensive line. The Serbians are relying on the break.

GOAL

Oh dear. Celtic are all at sea as Alan helps himself to a second goal. The ball is nodded on from a corner and, again, the Brazilian is left unattended to poke the ball past Craig Gordon.

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Mark_Lynch: Massive game for Lennon, Paulinho and especially Dembele. All been disappointing this season & in danger of leaving in my view

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BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: Salzburg lead at Celtic Park. Only seven minutes gone and Alan scored after Massimo Bruno's shot deflected into his path. The Celtic fans has been in good voice, but the Austrian side has looked accomplished and sharp up front. The home side are now chasing the game

You can follow full live commentary of the Celtic game here.

All Spurs early on as Partizan defend deeply. You get the feeling there are goals in this for the hosts.

GOAL

Massimo Bruno is allowed to weave his way infield and his shot loops up into the Celtic penalty box where Alan is waiting to rifle the ball past an exposed Craig Gordon from seven yards.

Getty Images

Kyle Naughton volleys over the bar for Tottenham. The hosts have made a very bright start against a Partizan side who have only pride to play for in this season's Europa League.

Stat attack

Spurs are unbeaten in 17 Europa League group stage matches since a 2-1 home loss to PAOK FC on matchday five of the 2011/12 competition.

Partizan are without a win in 16 UEFA competition group stage games since a 1-0 win against FC Shakhtar Donetsk on matchday six of the 2009/10 UEFA Europa League.

If only football was played on paper eh Spurs fans?

Europa League round-up

EPA

Aalborg's Thomas Enevoldsen celebrates scoring the winner

In Group G, Feyenoord beat Sevilla 2-0 and need a point from their final group game against bottom club Standard Liege to secure their berth in the knockout group. The Spanish need at least a draw from their match against Rijeka. In Group I, Napoli could only draw with Sparta Prague - with Young Boys winning 3-1 at Slovan Bratislava, it means the Swiss club are involved in the final day shake-up with the other two sides.

In Group J, Dynamo Kiev are through with a 2-0 victory over Rio Ave. Aalborg's win over Steaua Bucharest means they keep their hopes of qualifying alive. In Group K, PAOK Salonika's 2-0 victory at Dinamo Minsk means a win over Guingamp, who were beaten by group winners Fiorentina, would see them advance. And in Group L, either Trabzonspor or Lokeren will join Legia Warsaw in the next round. Both won, but Lokeren will need to beat Metalist Kharkiv in their final match to stand a chance of reaching the next stage.

Almost the perfect start for Spurs as Roberto Soldado drills a shot inches wide of the post from 18 yards. How he could do with a goal this evening.

Empics

KICK-OFF

A win will guarantee Tottenham's qualification. Under way here.

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Rian Hoskins: Wolfsburg were disappointing considering their line-up and form but Everton have been excellent. They are real contenders now

Sunsetcowboy: Great football week for this Tyke living in Germany.

BBC Sport's Richard Wilson at Celtic Park: "A win over Salzburg would secure Celtic's passage to the Europa League knockout stages, and the responsibility in attack lies with Leigh Griffiths, a peripheral player under Ronny Deila.

"The defence will also need to be wary of Jonathan Soriano, who has scored 28 times this season for Salzburg. Celtic Park isn't full, but there is anticipation in the air."

You can follow full live commentary of the Celtic game here.

LINE-UPS

Tottenham Hotspur: Lloris, Naughton, Vertonghen, Chiriches, Davies, Lennon, Stambouli, Dembele, Lamela, Paulinho, Soldado. Subs: Vorm, Dier, Kane, Eriksen, Bentaleb, Ball, Winks.

Partizan Belgrade: Lukac, Branko Ilic, Cirkovic, Stankovic, Volkov, Lazovic, Ninkovic, Markovic, Sasa Ilic, Grbic, Skuletic. Subs: Zivko Zivkovic, Petrovic, Luka, Kojic, Fofana, Andrija Zivkovic, Marinkovic.

Referee: Yevhen Aranovskiy (Ukraine)

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Room for improvement

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How much did Tottenham need Sunday's late winner against 10-man Hull? Christian Eriksen's strike moved Spurs into the top 10 after their worst start to a Premier League season since 2009.

It hasn't been the best of starts for manager Mauricio Pochettino, after his move from Southampton, but Eriksen is looking on the bright side.

"We are just two points off the top four and two or three wins in a row then you know you are up there", the Tottenham playmaker said. Hopefully we will continue what we started on Sunday and this Sunday against Everton have a good win also."

The teams are out at White Hart Lane.

What Tottenham need to do

Tottenham will qualify for the Europa League knockout stages if they beat Partizan Belgrade at White Hart Lane this evening.

Serbian side Partizan already been eliminated from the competition, with just one point from four matches in Group C. That point did come against Spurs in the reverse fixture though.

A draw or defeat will also be enough if Asteras fail to win at home to Besiktas.

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Tom Miszkowski: Wolfsburg can count themselves a little unlucky, Howard's made some good saves & Jags & Distin have blocked & headed everything.

Andrew Walter-nield: I'm a Liverpool fan and have to say Everton look a top side. Good Quality all over the pitch with a few of them top quality.

Simon Howard: Vorsprung Der Martinez! Efficiently clinical performance from EFC and on German soil too...

You have just about got time to make a brew before the next match.

Everton are through, now what of Tottenham and Celtic? Stick with us for live text commentary of Spurs v Partizan Belgrade, while Celtic's match against Red Bull Salzburg is here.

FULL-TIME

Wolfsburg will wonder how they have lost this but Everton deserve huge praise for a classic away performance. Roberto Martinez's men are already into the last 32 of the Europa League while Wolfsburg still need a point against Lille to secure their qualification.

Simply brilliant from the Toffees.

Reuters

Ivan Perisic is not going to score if he keeps playing all night. The Croatian has been a real threat but just can't find the net. This time he curls just wide with three minutes of added time signalled.

DISALLOWED GOAL

It almost gets even better for Everton as Ross Barkley curls in what he thinks is the visitor's third goal. The linesman's flag is raised for offside but it looks close.

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Lee Blake: So far, over both games, Wolfsburg have had 54 shots to Everton's 22. Aggregate score however is 1 - 6. Clinical!

It just doesn't look like being Wolfsburg's night. Kevin de Bruyne again bursts through Everton's midfield but Ivan Perisic's resultant shot is again blocked. Everton may already be through but they are still throwing their bodies on the line.

Tim Howard dives to his left to tip Maximilian Arnold's low strike wide. A great save.

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John Pierce: Germany, Munich, Schalke, Dortmund and now Wolfsburg. Your boys took one heck of a beating from the English.

Tom Miszkowski: I think that's what you'd call a smash & grab

SUBSTITUTION

Kevin Mirallas is replaced to a huge ovation from the travelling Everton fans. He is replaced by Chelsea loanee Christian Atsu, who will continue where the Belgian left off in trying to support Romelu Lukaku in attack.

AP

A live text commentary of Celtic's home Europa League tie against Red Bull Salzburg is already up and running as the Scottish champions look for a win they need for qualification for the knockout stages. You can view it here.

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Mike: So when English teams lose in Europe, people start knocking the Prem, so what does this week say about the German league, when all English teams have beaten them?

Another shot from Wolfsburg and it is again off radar. Ivan Perisic blazes wildly over the bar as time ticks for the Germans.

Everton look as they though are about to win Group H with this victory with one match still remaining. Wolfsburg will be left needing at least a draw in their last match at Lille to qualify. Defeat and the French side go through.

GOAL

This is turning into the classic away performance as Everton double their lead after another lightning break. Romelu Lukaku does brilliantly at the halfway line to hold the ball up before threading an inch perfect pass behind Wolfsburg's defence. Kevin Mirallas latches onto the pass and shows nerves of steel as he slots home. A brilliant break.

AP

Tim Howard has to keep his eye on that. The Everton stopper does well as he parries Marcel Schafer's bending free kick away from goal.

Reuters

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Kiriama16: Brace yourselves for an Everton collapse

SUBSTITUTION

Some more resilient defending by Everton. This time Nicklas Bendtner has a shot from inside the area blocked. Everton bring on Ross Barkley for Samuel Eto'o. A good shift from the striker.

Europa League latest

AP

Dutch attacking midfielder Jens Toomstra scores for Feyenoord

Dynamo Kiev look set to book their place in the knockout round as they lead Portuguese side Rio Ave 1-0 in Group J. It is looking good for Dutch side Feyenoord. They lead Group G rivals Sevilla thanks to Jens Toomstra's effort. They will go through if Rijeka defeat Standard Liege - they lead the Belgians 2-0.

Everton still hold firm. Wolfsburg have had 22 shots so far this evening but to no avail. The latest sees Nicklas Bendtner send the ball wide with an extravagant flick.

Everton are almost made to pay for McGeady's error as Ivan Perisic has a low strike that hits the outside of the post. The Croatian is a real danger but has a second shot turned wide by Tim Howard. Naldo then blazes over from the resulting corner.

The visitors may already be through after earlier results this evening but they still need to win to secure top spot in the group.

What a miss

What. A. Miss. Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has his hands on his head at the other end of the pitch and it is no wonder.

Aiden McGeady has to score as Romelu Lukaku's strike is parried to him just yards out from goal and with goalkeeper Diego Benaglio on the floor. Somehow, opting for power, he sends the ball wide of the upright. Awful.

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Mark_Lynch: Kinda gutted Harry Kane & Mason aren't starting tonight, although that now proves that they're first choice which is great!

Tottenham striker Harry Kane - who has scored seven goals in the Europa League this season - starts on the bench, so Spaniard Roberto Soldado is given full responsibility in attack. Manager Mauricio Pochettino makes several changes to the side that defeated Hull last weekend, with defenders Vlad Chiriches and Kyle Naughton, midfielders Paulinho, Aaron Lennon and Benjamin Stambouli also included.

Tottenham XI: Lloris, Naughton, Chiriches, Vertonghen, Davies, Dembele, Stambouli, Lennon, Paulinho, Lamela, Soldado.

Partizan XI: Lukac, Volkov, Stankovic, Ninkovic, Cirkovic, Grbic, Markovic, S Ilic, Lazovic, B Ilic, Skuletic.

DISALLOWED GOAL

Just as I say that, Kevin de Bruyne breaks clear of Everton's defence. He twists in and out, turning defender Sylvain Distin both ways, before shooting straight at Tim Howard.

Seconds later Wolfsburg have a second goal disallowed as Nicklas Bendtner is flagged offside as he heads home Ivan Perisic's header across goal. This time, the linesman is right.

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Wolfsburg keep pressing but Everton's defence are holding firm. The Germans are having a lot of the ball 30 yards from goal but are struggling to break the visitor's solid defensive line. Roberto Martinez's men look dangerous on the break as well.

AP

You would have to make sure you took an aspirin with you if you went to watch a match at the Volkswagen Arena. The Wolfsburg fans are making a right racket as their side look for the equaliser needed to guarantee their qualification from the group stages.

Wolfsburg start the second half where they left the first. On top. A free-kick from the right is slotted across the area to the unmakred Kevin de Bruyne who blazes over the bar.

The Germans have only failed to score once this season and you can see why. They still need a point to guarantee qualification.

KICK-OFF

We will bring you live text commentary of both Tottenham v Partizan Belgrade and Celtic v Red Bull Salzburg once this match is over. For now, back to the Volkswagen Arena where we are under way.

Remember Everton are already through but need a win to guarantee top spot with a match of the group stages still to go.

Europa League latest

Reuters

Napoli manager Rafa Benitez watches his players against Sparta Prague

It could be a thrilling final round of Group I matches. With Young Boys winning 2-1 against Slovan Bratislava, victory for the Swiss club would mean they would only be a point behind Napoli and Sparta Prague going into the final match against the Czech side. It is also tight in Group G with Rijeka lead bottom side Standard Liege 2-0. If the Croats win that match and Feyenoord and Sevilla claim a point each - it's 0-0 - then a win over the Spanish club in the final round would see them progress along with the Dutch club.

In Group L, it could be a fight for second spot on the final day. Trabzonspor lead Metalist Kharkiv 1-0, but Lokeren are 1-0 up against Legia Warsaw, who have already qualified. That means a win over Kharkiv in the last game could see Lokeren progress at the expense of the Turkish side.

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John Pierce: It's taken injuries & a lot of tinkering but Martinez is figuring out playing Thu/Sun.

Fabian Hopkins: Lukaku worth the £28 million if he puts in the goals when they matter most.

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Wolfsburg have had more possession, more shots and more corners. But the only stat that really matters is the goals for column and that is one Everton are ahead in.

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About time Romelu...

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Mike in Manchester: Sounds like a home game for Everton! There must be more than 5,000 away fans there, the place erupted when that goal went in!

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Beth: As a Spurs fan, not too fond of Europa. Nothing against the competition, but I really miss Saturday football, get fed up of the Thurs-Sun schedule. In fact, have Spurs even played any 3pm Saturday games yet this season?

Everton qualify

Everton are through to the Europa League knockout stages.

Whatever happens in the second half in Germany, their qualification is secured due to the 1-1 draw between Krasnodor and Lille.

A win is need to guarantee top spot though.

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HALF-TIME

Everton know a victory will see them win the their group and they are very much on course for just that at the break. Wolfsburg probably deserved better, after Ivan Perisic's effort was wrongly ruled out for offside, but Robert Martinez won't care.

YELLOW CARD

Luis Gustavo is booked for tripping up Kevin Mirallas while lying on the grounds as the hosts grow increasingly frustrated.

GOAL

What a moment for the travelling Everton fans as they go ahead against the run of play. Kevin Mirallas flicks the ball on at the halfway line, sending Romelu Lukaku through on goal. The Belgian looks as though he has lost possession a couple of times as he races clear but, after shrugging off a retreating defender, he fires calmly into the net. The circa 5,000 away fans are enjoying themselves.

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Good news Everton fans as Lille equalise at Krasnodor with five minutes to go, which means Everton are through no matter what happens this evening if it stays like that.

Still need a victory to win the group though.

A brilliant cross from the right by Marcel Schafer causes a moment of anxiety in Everton's defence. But his volleyed pass flashes across goal to safety with Nicklas Bendtner on his heels.

A chance for Everton out of nothing. Kevin Mirallas comes inside with the ball before firing a shot from 20 yards towards goal. Goalkeeper Diego Benaglio does enough to turn the ball wide but he didn't look entirely convincing.

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Joseph in Lancashire: Honestly, what's the point of those referees behind the goal if they can't even get basic offside decisions like that right?

Have to blame the man on the sidelines for that one surely Joseph?

SUBSTITUTION

The tie is being played at an incredible tempo early on with both sides pressing high.

An injury blow for Everton though as James McCarthy limps off to be replaced by Leon Osman in the centre of midfield. 'Ossy' scored the winner on his 400th appearance for the club in the win against West Ham on Saturday.

Don't forget though a draw will be enough to send Everton through this evening, with one match remaining in the group stages.

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Wolfsburg dominating possession early on...

Europa League latest

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Elhadji Babacar (left) celebrates scoring the second goal for Fiorentina

There have been plenty of goals already in the the 18:00 GMT kick-offs. French side Guingamp are 2-0 down to Fiorentina in Group K, although they will still qualify if PAOK Salonika fail to win at Dinamo Minsk - it's 0-0 in that game. Lokeren have given themselves a good chance of qualifying from Group L - they lead Legia Warsaw 1-0 and need bottom side Metalist Kharkiv to deny Trabzonspor victory in Ukraine - it remains 0-0 in Turkey. Young Boys are winning 2-1 at Slovan Bratislava in Group I. A win or a draw for the Swiss club will keep their hopes alive.

There were few complaints from the Germans but the replays clearly show Everton should be behind. Ivan Perisic was in line with the visitors' defence when he tapped home. A decision the linesman got badly wrong. A sigh of relief from the visitors but surely, if this pressure continues, a Wolfsburg opener is only a matter of time?

DISALLOWED GOAL

Another close shave for Everton. Kevin de Bruyne collects the ball 25 yards out before driving over.

Wolfsburg go even closer to taking the lead seconds later as Ivan Perisic slots home from close range after Nicklas Bendtner's flick. The linesman's flag goes up immediately for offside but Wolfsburg can count themselves very unfortunate. That was clearly onside.

AP

Everton are working hard to win the ball back every time Wolfsburg are in possession. Muhamed Besic and Aiden McGeady have both launched into meaty challenges early on for the visitors as they look to disrupt the Germans' flow.

AP

Sylvain Distin will still be reflecting on how his header didn't give Everton the lead. Just a few yards out, the defender headed downwards but a heavy bounce saw the ball rise up onto the bar and over. He should have scored and he knows it.

Remember though, Everton only need a draw to secure qualification into the knockout stages, while a win will win them the group.

What a game this is. Wolfsburg now close to the opener as Aaron Hunt sees a drilled shot from distance turned wide by Tim Howard. End-to-end stuff at the moment.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Ivan Perisic is causing Everton all sorts of problems early on. The midfielder runs on to Nicklas Bendtner's through ball but can only slide the ball wide, with goalkeeper Tim Howard coming out to narrow the angle.

At the other end Aiden McGeady pressures Wolfsburg's defence into a mistake and, from the resulting corner, Sylvain Distin heads against the bar.

Better from Everton as Romelu Lukaku begins to cause a few problems in attack. The ball finds its way to Samuel Eto'o on the left and, after cutting inside, his curled effort goes harmlessly wide.

It looks as though there is going to be goals here.

Apologies. An Everton win this evening would be a fourth win for English clubs against German opposition in Europe this week. Chelsea's drubbing of Schalke was so easy, it somehow slipped my mind.

Not often English clubs could boast a quartet of victories against German sides is it?

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Tonight could be a huge test to that run...

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James Wilkin: Having seen Luke Garbutt play for Colchester, I think he'll be absolutely fine tonight going forward, superb crosser.

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What a test this is for 21-year-old Luke Garbutt. His only other start for Everton came in a League Cup tie. Slightly different to playing in this cauldron of noise.

A good noise coming from a packed Volkswagen Arena as the home fans bounce up and down. Wolfsburg have started quickly, Everton need to calm things down.

Ivan Perisic has a great chance to put the hosts ahead but heads over from close range.

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Former Everton captain Phil Neville

"Great seeing @luke_garbutt start for the Toffees tonight."

Almost a disastrous start for Everton. Ivan Perisic gets down the left for Wolfsburg and his flashing drive across goal is just inches away from the waiting Nicklas Bendter. A sign of things to come?

KICK-OFF

AFP

So Arsenal did on Wednesday night and Manchester City did it on Tuesday night, can Everton make it a hat trick of wins for English clubs against German opponents in Europe this week?

We will find out in the next 90 minutes. With Krasnodor leading Lille 1-0 at half time, a win or a draw will see them through. Game on.

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Coco, in London: Europa league is just as intense as the Champions League, except teams are further apart distance-wise and have more hostile atmospheres. The financial rewards just aren't worth it; Uefa need to do something about that.

Bendtner's back

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"If you ask me if I am one of the best strikers in the world, I say yes because I believe it."

Nicklas Bendtner's rather over-confident statement back in 2010 has certainly come back to haunt him a few times over the past seasons.

The Dane scored 47 goals in 171 appearances for Arsenal after joining from Copenhagen in 2004, had loan spells with Birmingham, Sunderland and Juventus, before signing for Wolfsburg in the summer.

Life in Germany didn't start brilliantly for him either but, without a goal after his first eight appearances, he has been enjoying the goals again in recent weeks.

When the going gets tough

With the likes of Inter Milan, Napoli, Fiorentina and Sevilla topping their Europa League groups, Britain's trio of teams left in the competition know it is only going to get harder.

Add on the eight sides who will join in the knockout stages after finishing third in their Champions League groups and the team who pick up the trophy at the end of the campaign will be more than deserved winners.

The teams are out at the Volkswagen Arena.

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Marius Hollenga: The #EuropaLeague is the most fun club football competition in Europe, the CL is dull in comparison.

Europa League preview

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Micah Richards joined Fiorentina on loan from Manchester City in the summer

One match has finished with Dynamo Moscow, already through, beating Panathinaikos 2-1 in Group E. It's half-time in the Group H match between Krasnodar and Lille, with the Russians leading 1-0 - a win would keep alive their knockout-round hopes.

Highlights from the 18:00 GMT matches include a potentially a cracking game in Rotterdam with second place Feyenoord hosting leaders Sevilla - neither side have secured qualification. There is also an exciting clash in Group I between Sparta Prague and Rafa Benitez's Napoli - both leading with nine points. Ukrainian club Dynamo Kiev will secure qualification from Group J with a win over Portuguese outfit Rio Ave. In Group K, full-back Micah Richards could help his Fiorentina side book their spot in the knockout round with a draw against Guingamp.

Forget Everton's drubbing of Wolfsburg last time out, Die Wolfe are no mugs...

Since that defeat, they have won 10 of their last 13 matches and are second in the Bundesliga.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez said on ITV 4: "They are a team with more confidence than before. Well organised and well structured. We come here with the clear mentality of trying to win the game. That will make it a very open game.

"It has been a phenomenal experience so far."

Former Everton midfielder Peter Reid on Twitter: Tough one tonight, thought they played well at Goodison. Didn't defend great , good going forward. Howard was excellent.

Wolfsburg

It looks like the Wolfsburg fans are enjoying themselves pre match as well, if these pictures tweeted by the German club are anything to go by...

Wolfsburg

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Steven Naismith is one of a number of players who have not travelled. The Scot is missing due to a hamstring problem sustained in the 2-1 win over West Ham on Saturday.

Naismith has had a stunning season so far for Martinez's men but there is far more to him than just being a Premier League footballer. Read Matt Slater's excellent feature on why he is still the working-class lad, with old-fashioned values here.

Leighton Baines (hamstring), Gareth Barry (ankle), Darron Gibson (knee) and Steven Pienaar (knee), are also absent from the trip to Germany, leaving Everton a tad bit stretched.

BBC

Tottenham will qualify for the Europa League knockout stages if they beat Partizan Belgrade at White Hart Lane this evening.

And they couldn't ask for better opponents with Serbian side Partizan already been eliminated from the competition, with just one point from four matches in Group C.

That point did come against Spurs in the reverse fixture though.

A draw or defeat will also be enough if Asteras fail to win at home to Besiktas. That is for later though.

Soaking in the atmosphere

Everton fc

Several thousand Everton fans have made the trip to north Germany and you can be certain a few steins have already been sunk.

Roberto Martinez's men hammered the Bundesliga outfit 4-1 in the reverse fixture in September, their first match back in the Europa League since 2010.

There is plenty to see for the travelling blue army, including the Wolfsburg Water Show, the world's largest water-flame-laser-video fountain show with 70-metre high fountains, and an open air museum-theme park dedicated to cars.

But another victory for Everton this evening and it will be bars that should be ready for the rush.

Everton fc

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Let us know your views on the Europa League. Is it a Mickey Mouse competition or does it mean something to you? Where does it rank in terms of other competitions your team is in?

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Team news

Everton's 21-year-old defender Luke Garbutt makes just his second start for the Toffees, while striker Arouna Kone is named on the bench for the first time since injuring his knee 13 months ago.

Wolfsburg include former Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner in their line up while Brazil's Luis Gustavo starts in midfield.

Everton XI: Howard, Hibbert, Garbutt, Jagielka, Distin, Besic, McCarthy, McGeady, Mirallas, Eto'o, Lukaku. Subs. Joel, Kone, Atsu, Osman, Coleman, Browning, Barkley.

Wolfsburg XI: Benaglio; Vieirinha, Naldo, Knoche, Schäfer; Malanda, Gustavo; De Bruyne, Hunt, Perisic; Bendtner. Subs. Grun, Klose, Caligiuri, Olic, Träsch, Jung, Arnold.

Pele in special care unit

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Elsewhere in the world of football, Brazil legend Pele has been transferred to a special care unit following treatment for a urinary infection.

The Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo stated the 74-year-old three-time World Cup winner had been moved after suffering "clinical instability".

Reports had suggested Pele, admitted on Monday, was in intensive care. Pele, a World Cup winner in 1958, 1962 and 1970, was initially discharged from hospital on 13 November after surgery to remove kidney stones.

BBC

So what do Everton need to do this evening?

They go into the match, their penultimate fixture in Group H, unbeaten in the pool and looking strong favourites to make the knock-out rounds.

They are top and need only a point against German side Wolfsburg to guarantee progress to the next stage, while a victory will confirm them as group-winners.

Qualification will also be secured even if they lose should the evening's other Group H fixture, between Krasnodar and Lille, end in a draw. Good news Everton fans, that is 0-0 after 35 minutes.

PA

We will also be keeping a big eye on Celtic's Europa League home match against Red Bull Salzburg (20:05 GMT).

The Scottish champions know victory against the Group D leaders, who are already through, will secure their qualification for the last 32.

Celtic could even qualify with a draw or defeat should third-placed Dinamo Zagreb fail to defeat Astra Giurgiu in Romania.

The BBC Sport website will have live text commentary on Celtic's match later this evening.

Good evening. We may be looking a little ahead of ourselves talking about European honours in November but both Tottenham and Everton are in good shape as we reach the business end of the Europa League group stages.

First of all, we will bring you live text commentary of Everton's tough-looking trip to Wolfsburg - kick off 18:00 GMT - before switching back to British shores for Tottenham's visit of Partizan Belgrade (20:05 GMT).

It may not be the Champions League but try telling fans of the teams involved this trophy doesn't matter.

Everton last won a European trophy in 1985.

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Tottenham's last one came a year before that in 1984.

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Since then, we have had eight World Cup winners, a Premier League has been formed and we have had four new British prime ministers. Is it time for Spurs or the Toffees to conquer the continent once more?