The French Football Federation (FFF) has threatened to take legal action against Argentina’s national team players over “racially offensive” songs.

Following Argentina’s triumph in the 2024 Copa America final over Colombia, an online video showed Argentina players celebrating their victory while singing songs on the team bus.

One such song was directed at the French national team players, and Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea midfielder, could be seen chanting along to the lyrics.
The footage drew ire from several social media users who considered the lyrics of the song to be racially inappropriate and discriminatory.
Reacting to the development, Philippe Diallo, the president of the FFF, described the song as “unacceptable” and “racist”.

In a statement on the federation’s website on Tuesday, Diallo said the action is “contrary to the values ​​of sport and human rights”.

He added that FFF has decided “to file a legal complaint for racially offensive and discriminatory remarks”.
"The President of the French Football Federation, Philippe Diallo, condemns in the strongest terms the unacceptable racist and discriminatory remarks that were made against the players of the French team during a song sung by players and supporters of the Argentine team after its victory in the Copa America and broadcast in a video on social networks,” the statement reads.

“Faced with the seriousness of these shocking remarks, contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the president of the FFF decided to directly appeal to his Argentinian counterpart and FIFA and to file a legal complaint for racially offensive and discriminatory remarks.”

Argentina and France have had a heated rivalry in recent FIFA World Cup tournaments. While the French defeated Argentina en route to winning the 2018 World Cup title, the Argentines returned the favour by exerting revenge in the final of the 2022 World Cup.



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Kylian Mbappe was officially presented as a Real Madrid player this morning, speaking in perfect Spanish as he addressed a sold-out Santiago Bernabeu. The Frenchman said he was “one happy guy” after completing a move he has “dreamed” of since he was a child, and will this afternoon hold a press conference.

The 25-year-old announced last month that he would join Real but has endured a frustrating few weeks since then, breaking his nose while playing for France at Euro 2024 and then growing increasingly fed up with having to wear a mask. He opted against it for the semi-final clash against Spain, but could not inspire France to victory as Les Blues were narrowly beaten.
Mbappe scored only once at the Euros, a penalty against Poland, but he will hope to hit the ground running in a Real shirt, after the club decided he would not be made available for the France squad at the Paris Olympics. The forward will instead be presented as a Real player this morning, and will also hold a press conference.


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Argentina lifted the Copa America once again thanks to an extra-time winner from the tournament's scoring superstar.

For so much of his career, the narrative was that Lionel Messi was let down by his No. 9s. Gonzalo Higuain was the most frequent target of the accusation and his mantle had been unceremoniously passed to Lautaro Martinez in recent years.

But this summer, this Copa America, it was Martinez's tournament. And when the injured Lionel Messi needed him most - when Argentina needed him most - he was the striker that scored the legendary goal to win his country the 2024 Copa America.

Martinez bagged the tournament winner in the 112th minute, leading Argentina to a 1-0 win and a second-straight Copa America title. It took them a scoreless 90 minutes, and a hell of an extra-time effort, but the Inter Milan star did what he's been bast at over the past month: score.

That's back-to-back-to-back titles with a World Cup sandwiched in between and, this summer, Martinez is the man to thank.

He's the Golden Boot winner with six goals, but he'll never score one more important than his late effort. With legs tiring and emotions high, Martinez burst through the heart of the defense, picking his corner with ease. It's the type of moment Argentina would have missed out on so many times in prior years. Not this time.

All the while, Messi could only watch. He was forced out early, the victim of an injury that saw his ankle swell to the size of an apple. In tears of sadness as he
departed the pitch in the second half, they turned to tears of joy when Martinez hit the net.

On this night, Messi's teammates picked him up. Argentina are champions again, and the legacy continues. The Messi era may be ending, but Argentina's reign of dominance continues on.





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Jude Bellingham is one game from the Ballon d'Or - but Rodri will deserve Golden Ball if Spain beat England in Euro 2024 final.

Bellingham is likely to land another winner for his club in October, with Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr widely regarded as the two leading contenders to win this year’s Ballon d’Or. The former was integral to Madrid’s Liga triumph, while the latter proved decisive during the tail end of their Champions League success.

However, with Vinicius’ Brazil having suffered an embarrassingly early exit from the Copa America, the common consensus is that Bellingham is now one game away from the Ballon d’Or. He may have gone missing for Madrid during the tail end of the club season, while he's actually performed poorly aside from scoring a couple of crucial goals in Germany, but just being part of an England win over Spain on Sunday should seal the deal for the 21-year-old. Victory cannot be taken for granted, though.

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Lionel Messi scores first tournament goal as La Albiceleste advance to Copa America finals in search of title repeat.

Messi's second-half strike was the dagger Argentina needed to advance to the Copa America finals.

His goal for Argentina today was a defining moment for him as he has now scored 109 international goals, breaking ties with Iran's Ali Daei, and becoming the second highest goal scorer in international football, second only to Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored 130.


Lionel Messi broke his Copa America goal drought and Julian Alvarez also found the back of the net as Argentina coasted into Sunday's tournament final with an relentless 2-0 win over Canada at MetLife Stadium Tuesday night.

The holders turned in an experienced performance against Jesse Marsch's surprise semi-finalists, taking their chances and limiting their opponents to just one shot on target.

Messi had La Albiceleste's first chance of the game, firing narrowly wide of the post from outside the box. Alvarez gave Argentina the lead after 23 minutes, running onto Rodrigo de Paul's pass before finishing past the keeper. Messi should have made it two shortly before half time, but skewed an effort wide after weaving between two Canada defenders.

He made no such mistake after the break, deflecting Enzo Fernandez's driven strike into the net from close range to double their lead in the 51st minute. Canada, for their part, had chances in the second half, piecing together a number of dangerous attacks. But they lost steam when Alphonso Davies exited the game with an apparent ankle injury with 20 minutes to spare.

From there, La Albiceleste made it look relatively easy. They still threatened on the break, and kept Canada at arm's length, coasting their way to third straight major tournament final.

Messi achieved another milestone as he guides Argentina to an individual record of seven major finals in football tournament:
Copa America 2007
World Cup 2014
Copa America 2015
Copa America 2016
Copa America 2021
World cup 2022
Copa America 2024

Source
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Former Barcelona, Bayern and Liverpool star Thiago Alcantara is set to retire from football, according to a new report.

Per Fabrizio Romano, Thiago is set to call time on his career at the age of 33. The former Spain international made his professional debut in 2008 for Barcelona B and went on to become a fixture at the Camp Nou, before joining Bayern Munich in 2013. He would spend seven years at the club prior to his final transfer, when he joined Liverpool in 2020.
Thiago has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons and in 2023/24, he only managed to play five minutes of competitive football. In total, though, he played 98 times for the Reds before hip and muscle injuries took their toll. His fitness has undoubtedly played a key role in his decision to hang up his boots. Prior to the announcement, he had briefly been linked with a move back to La Liga with Girona.
Thiago enjoyed a ridiculously trophy-laden career. He won La Liga four times with Barcelona, as well as the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

At Bayern, he won seven Bundesliga trophies, four DFB-Pokals, and the Champions League and Club World Cup once again.

At Liverpool, he won the FA Cup and was a runner-up in the Champions League. Amazingly, he only won 46 Spain caps, as he struggled to dislodge the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Cesc Fabregas.

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Lionel Messi needed his Argentine teammates to bail him out, and the world champions delivered for their all-time captain.

Messi missed his penalty kick in a shootout, but Argentina outlasted Ecuador 1-1 (4-2 in penalty kicks) in their Copa America quarterfinal match Thursday night at NRG Stadium in Houston to advance to the semifinal.
Argentina will meet the winner of Friday’s quarterfinal between Venezuela and Canada at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The semifinal will be played July 9 inside MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Messi walked up with the ball in his hand, lined up Argentina’s first kick to set the tone. And he missed it. His plan to chip it down the middle was ideal, but the ball hit the crossbar and went over the net.

But Messi’s miss didn’t discourage the Argentine national team, the defending Copa America 2021 and World Cup 2022 champions. They’ve been in much more adverse situations before, and they delivered for Messi.

Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, Gonzalo Montiel and Nicolás Otamendi scored in the penalty round, while Argentina’s fierce and outlandishly celebrating goalkeeper Dibu Martinez kept Ecuador at bay with just two penalties scored by John Yeboah and Jordy Caicedo.

The Argentinians celebrated in song and dance, while Ecuador woefully accepted defeat after their thrilling comeback.

Ecuador’s Kevin Rodríguez connected with a header in the lower left corner in stoppage time to shock Argentina and tie the match at 1:1 in the 91st minute.

Before the crucial goal, it appeared Argentina would easily navigate its way to the semifinals.
Messi made his mark earlier in the match: His corner kick fueled a goal near the net by defender Lisandro Martínez in the 35th minute. Messi’s kick from the right side was short of the goal area, but Alexis Mac Allister used his head to send the ball backwards where Martínez was waiting to score.

Ecuador’s Enner Valencia missed a golden opportunity to tie the match, but his poor form led to his penalty kick ricocheting off the left post in the 62nd minute.

Messi missed a right boot in the second half, his only shot of the match. He remains scoreless during this Copa America, but has an assist in Argentina’s first match. He also became the Copa America record holder for most minutes played in the tournament during the match.

Messi played the entire match, returning from a right groin/adductor injury he suffered on June 25 in a 1-0 win against Chile, causing him to miss a 2-0 win over Peru last Saturday.


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>:

Praxis758:
Don’t be surprised if Nigerians buy calculator to permutate our chance of qualifying from our group.

After the thrilling AFCON 2023 that we experienced through beIN SPORTS a few months ago, the groups for the AFCON 2025 Qualifiers were drawn this Thursday.

A total of 48 teams participating in this qualifying round for the tournament were divided into 12 groups of four teams each.
Only the top two teams from each group will secure a ticket to the next Africa Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco. As the host nation, Morocco already has its spot guaranteed.

The matches will not begin until September 2024. AFCON 2025 will kick off in December 2025.

The coach of Ivory Coast, Emerse Faé, who led the "Elephants" to glory in the last edition, and Moroccan legend Marouane Chamakh, were the special guests at the draw held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Here are the groups after the draw

GROUP A
Tunisia
Madagascar
Comoros
Gambia

GROUP B
Morocco
Gabon
Central African Republic
Lesotho

GROUP C
Egypt
Cape Verde
Mauritania
Botswana

GROUP D
Nigeria
Benin
Libya
Rwanda

GROUP E
Algeria
Equatorial Guinea
Togo
Liberia

GROUP F
Ghana
Angola
Sudan
Niger

GROUP G
Ivory Coast
Zambia
Sierra Leone
Chad

GROUP H
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Guinea
Tanzania
Ethiopia

GROUP I
Mali
Mozambique
Guinea-Bissau
Eswatini

GROUP J
Cameroon
Namibia
Kenya
Zimbabwe

GROUP K
South Africa
Uganda
Congo
South Sudan


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Super Falcons' American football tactician Randy Waldrum has included four NWSLers in his squad list for the 2024 Olympic Games.

They are: Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash), Nicole Payne (Portland Thorns), Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC) and Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville). The quartet have been named alongside 14 others for the tournament which will begins on July 25. Waldrum has also named four players on the alternate list including Jumoke Alani, Ifeoma Onumonu, Gift Monday and Morufa Ademola The Super Falcons qualified for the competition through a 1-0 aggregate win over continental rivals South Africa to qualify for the tournament. Nine-time African champions Nigeria, who are making their first appearance at the Women's Olympic Football Tournament for the first time since 2008 in China, will tackle Brazil, Spain and Japan, in that order, at this year’s tournament.

Their first game, against Brazil, comes up at the Stade Bordeaux on 25th July, before confrontations with Spain (28th July) and Japan (31st July). The matches against Spain and Japan will hold at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, where the Super Eagles famously defeated tournament favourites Spain 3-2 in a memorable game at the 1998 FIFA World Cup finals.

The team is scheduled to depart Sevilla for France on Thursday, 18th July. Super Falcons 18-player roster for Paris 2024 Olympics.</p>
<p> Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC); Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia)

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims, France); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Nicole Payne (Portland Thorns FC, USA); Chidinma Okeke (Mynavi Sendai Ladies, Japan) 

Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun (University of Pittsburgh, USA); Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosengard, Sweden); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Jennifer Echegini (Juventus Ladies, Italy); Toni Payne (Sevilla FC, Spain)

Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid FC, Spain); Esther Okoronkwo (Changchun FC, China); Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, USA); Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville, USA); Chiwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Chinonyerem Macleans (Locomotiv Moscow, Russia)

Alternate Players: Jumoke Alani (Nasarawa Amazons); Ifeoma Onumonu (Utah Royals, USA); Gift Monday (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, Spain); Morufa Ademola (Rivers Angels)

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Napoli are reportedly yet to receive an offer for Victor Osimhen but the Italian side cannot afford to keep him, either.
As the transfer window heats up, one name that continues to dominate headlines is that of Osimhen. However, the Nigerian striker finds himself at an unusual crossroads.

According to Gazzetta, Napoli have yet to receive any concrete offers for him, which has placed the Italian club in a precarious position as they are struggling to keep up with his high wages.

Keeping Osimhen on the roster without transferring him imposes a significant financial burden on Napoli. His annual salary, reported to be around €10m (£9m/$11m), is a substantial strain on the club's wage bill and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis has recognised the need to offload Osimhen to reduce expenses. De Laurentiis, initially adamant about receiving the full amount of Osimhen's release clause, is now contemplating a reduction in the asking price. This strategic shift is necessary to attract buyers and alleviate the club's financial burden. The reduced fee is seen as a pragmatic approach to ensuring a deal can be struck, even if it means not reaching the originally anticipated financial target.

While Osimhen remains a crucial player for Napoli, his ambition to play in the Premier League might remain unfulfilled. Napoli coach Antonio Conte is allegedly aware that he cannot keep counting on Osimhen for the entire season and is already considering potential replacements. The dream target is Romelu Lukaku, though his acquisition would be challenging as Chelsea remain firm on their price tag of £38 million ($48m). Another option being considered is Artem Dovbyk, who presents a more feasible target for Napoli.

Source:

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Napoli's new manager Antonio Conte has confirmed that The Parthenopeans are working on a deal to sign Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku in the summer transfer window.

The Belgium international returned for a second spell at Chelsea in 2021 but the deal has not worked out for both parties, leading to back-to-back loan spells at Inter Milan and AS Roma.

Conte is targeting a reunion with Lukaku, with whom he worked with at Inter Milan for two seasons, before the center forward returned to the Premier League. In order to facilitate Lukaku's move to the the Diego Maradona Stadium, Napoli have to offload their number 9, Victor Osimhen.

 The reigning African Footballer of the Year has indicated he wants to play in the Premier League but his suitors, including Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United, have been put off by the 130 million euros it will cost to sign him. Chelsea have made it clear that Lukaku's £38 million release clause must be met and have dismissed any chance of a loan move.

Lukaku's potential transfer to Napoli could depend on the sale of Osimhen to fund the acquisition of the Belgian striker.
In quotes relayed by Italian transfer market guru Fabrizio Romano, Conte said at Wednesday's press conference:

"He's an excellent player, top player. There's nothing else to say. "You always hope to have a player like Romelu on your side… and not against you."

Osimhen is in Nigeria at the moment and must head back to Napoli for pre-season training next month if his future is still undecided. The 25-year-old has 76 goals and 18 assists from 133 all-competition appearances since landing at Napoli from Lille in 2020.

Source:
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Barcelona legend and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has finally revealed the secret to his incredible talent.

The 37-year-old is an 8-time Ballon d’Or winner, Copa America champion, and World Cup winner with Argentina.
Widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, Messi has won league titles with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
In a recent interview with Argentine podcaster Juan Pablo Varsky, Messi shared the source of his talent:

“It’s very clear to me that I was born like this because God chose me. It was a gift he gave me. I tried to take advantage of it, I did everything possible to squeeze the most out of it.

“The truth is, although I did many things, I did nothing to become the player that I already was when I was little.”

Messi is currently at the Copa America with Argentina, possibly his last major tournament.

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"When you saw him you would think: this kid can't play ball. He's a dwarf, he's too fragile, too small. But immediately you'd realise that he was born different, that he was a phenomenon and that he was going to be something impressive." ~Newell's Coach first impression of the 12year old Messi.

Diamond never comes in its purest form.

At age 10, Messi was diagnosed of a growth hormone disorder. This could have denied him the opportunity of showcasing his talent. He was stunted, and his muscles very weak.
Clubs rejected him because of his ill health. They didn't want to take responsibility for his medical treatment, which his father's health insurance couldn't cover.

For four years, he was taking hormonal jabs daily to boost his hormones.

That could have been traumatizing for a young boy.
Seeing him getting all the accolades and awards he deserves, being the most awarded player as well as the player with the most trophies in football history, shows that with great determination everything is possible.

The Little boy from Rosario has conquered the world of soccer.
He's the GOAT

Source:
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Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez has reportedly reached an agreement to sign for Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah.

The Spain international has spent his entire career with Real Madrid after joining the club's youth system at the age of 11.

The 34-year-old has ultimately gone on to enjoy significant success at the Santiago Bernabeu, collecting 25 winners' medals in a trophy-laden career.

Nacho was recently one of four Real Madrid players to celebrate their sixth Champions League triumph to equal Paco Gento's record for the most European Cups won by a single player.

Despite being a regular fixture through the 2023-24 campaign, there has always been a cloud hanging over Nacho's long-term future due to his contract situation.
With his contract set to expire at the end of June, the centre-back has been given some time to decide whether to continue with Real Madrid or seek a fresh challenge in the latter stages of his career.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti was seemingly keen for Nacho to stay put, but it appears that the Italian will be left disappointed.

According to Marca, Nacho will end his 23-year association with Los Blancos after agreeing a deal to sign for Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah.

The centre-back will sign a two-year deal worth nearly €10m (£8.5m) when his Real Madrid contract officially expires at the end of June.

Al-Qadsiah are managed by former Real Madrid player Michel, and they will compete in the Saudi Pro League next season after winning promotion last term.

Who will replace Nacho?
With Nacho set to leave, Los Blancos will need to strengthen their central defensive options, especially as Rafa Marin appears to be nearing a move to Napoli.

Lille youngster Leny Yoro appears to be at the top of Real Madrid's wishlist, but they face a battle to secure his signature ahead of several other European heavyweights.

French champions Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly in a strong position to sign the 18-year-old, while there is also thought to be interest from Manchester United and Liverpool.

However, Real Madrid are preparing to step up their pursuit of Yoro now that they know Nacho will leave the club this summer.

Ancelotti can still upon some top-quality centre-backs in the form of Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, although the latter is completing his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Source:

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Red Bull’s Max Verstappen prevailed in a tense, strategic battle with McLaren’s Lando Norris to win the Spanish Grand Prix.

Verstappen’s seventh victory in 10 races this year hinged on a decisive opening phase of the race from the Dutchman.

Verstappen was in the lead by lap three while Norris stayed stuck behind Mercedes’ George Russell for 15 laps.

It left Norris too much to do and Verstappen was able to measure his pace to control the McLaren behind.

Lewis Hamilton took his first podium finish of the year for Mercedes in third, ahead of Russell, as Britons finished second, third and fourth. Charles Leclerc was fifth, leading home Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz.

The race underlined the fact that Red Bull have lost the massive advantage they held over the first five races of the season, but also that Verstappen is operating at a level of consistent excellence in the cockpit and will be tough to beat - not only for the championship, on which he has a stranglehold, but also on individual race weekends.

McLaren have been on Red Bull’s pace since the Miami Grand Prix in early May, and Verstappen has not taken a pole position since the Chinese Grand Prix in April.

Even so, Verstappen has won three of the past five races and consolidated his championship advantage.

Source:
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According to Fabrizio Romano, United have reportedly approached their club legend to return to Old Trafford and take up a coaching role under manager Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman, however, could turn down the offer as he is close to replacing Vincent Kompany at Championship side Burnley.

Burnley are closing in on appointing the 47-year-old as their new boss after Kompany left for Bayern Munich earlier this summer. Previously, Van Nistelrooy worked as an assistant manager for the Netherlands national team and then managed PSV Eindhoven's U-19 side before taking charge of their senior side in 2022. He, however, departed the Dutch giants in the final phase of the 2022-2023 season, despite having a contract until 2025.

Irrespective of Van Nistelrooy's arrival at the club, the INEOS group and Sir Jim Ratcliffe are likely to make changes in Ten Hag's coaching staff. The former Real Madrid forward is expected to take a final decision by next week.


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Lionel Messi lifted the curtain on the Copa America but took his time finding center stage before Argentina beat Jesse Marsch's gritty Canada 2-0 in Atlanta.
A sublime Messi through ball in the 47th minute cracked open Canada's stubborn defense, with Julian Alvarez slotting into an empty net after Alexis Mac Allister was clattered by goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau. And after Messi missed a string of second half chances, substitute Lautaro Martinez scored with two minutes left - from a Messi assist. But if this is the beginning of the end and Messi's 'Last Dance' at an international tournament - as the man himself expects it to be - the World Cup winners need another level of pace to their play, more midfield authority and remove slack defensive passing if their star man is to sign off with a third international trophy.

'We knew it was going to be a tough game, very physical,' Messi said afterwards. 'In the first half there was little space. Luckily we found the goal quickly in the second half. We could have played better but even so, it was complicated. Most of our rivals play differently against us, you have to be patient and have control when opportunities arrive.'

The first 10 minutes were brilliant from Argentina. Leandro Paredes tried his luck from 25 yards and his menacing right-footed strike just failed to dip enough to trouble Crepeau. And they should have scored four minutes later. Angel Di Maria charged down a pass from Canada's last man as they tried to recycle play from their own corner and had their whole half of the field to run into with Messi alongside him. But Canada's defense reacted brilliantly, racing back to force him wide before Crepeau easily repelled a shot from a position that should have delivered more. Then, Messi raced through across goal, on his left foot, but agonizingly dragged his shot wide before being flagged offside.
Canada held on, but it felt like a warning as Argentina brushed the dust off the gears. Marsch's men held firm, though, and their response to the danger spoke volumes of the belief he has instilled after just three matches with this team.

On the eve of the game, he called on them to be fearless against Argentina and he was not let down, even in defeat. Alphonso Davies, the Canada captain, was relentless down the left and set the tone for his team to harry and hassle their illustrious opponents. As Argentina threatened to take control in their lively start, Canada's work rate increased and the hold Messi and his men had on the game dimmed so much, a Mexican wave even went round the stadium. Mac Allister went close with a soft header but Canada should have snatched the lead before halftime. Cyle Larin's chipped ball from the byline was met by Stephen Eustaquio, but his header from six yards was beaten away by Emiliano Martinez. It was a huge let off for Argentina, and how different things might have been if the Porto man had put it away.

For much of the first half, Messi had walked around the fringes of the game. As he so often does, the man that everyone wants to see hides in plain sight but he took Eustaquio's header as the sign to go hunting for the ball. Seconds before the halftime whistle, he slalomed in from the right and let fly left-footed, but his effort sailed harmlessly wide. It was a sign of things to come, though.
Four minutes the other side of the break, he unlocked the scoring by playing in Mac Allister with sumptuously weighted through ball. The Liverpool man looked hurt as Crepeau clattered into him after he nudged possession into the path of Alvarez but after a few worrying moments, it was clear the goal had not come at any major cost to the defending champions. Alvarez nearly scored again moments later, Crepeau turning away his low right-footed strike. Messi then had a great chance to double the lead with Davies' misjudging a long ball over the top - his sole error of the night - which Messi controlled wonderfully on the run. Crepeau rushed out again and between him and Davies, shunted Messi's first shot and the rebound spun awkwardly for the attacker, who could only get it under control with his back to goal. Canada forced the ball away, and living dangerously seemed to give them life.

 Davies caused chaos with a cross/shot that squirmed away from Martinez's goal to anxious gasps from the 70,564 fans packed into the Mercedes Benz stadium. Martinez then had to bravely jump on Alistair Johnson's ball into the six-yard area.
Lionel Messi leads Argentina to 2-0 win over Canada in Copa America opener - but the defending champions have plenty of room for improvement. Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez got the goals for Argentina in Atlanta.

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Embattled Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, has stated that he has not received much support from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).
This is even as he was quoted, stating that it was impossible to sanction some players who belong to some "big men."
He said these when he along with NFF chieftains met with Sports Minister, John Enoh, in Abuja to review the Super Eagles’ tottering 2026 World Cup campaign after they held South Africa to a 1-1 draw in Uyo before they were shocked by lowly Benin 2-1 in Abidjan.

Finidi also used the poster boy of Nigerian footballer, Victor Osimhen, to drive home his point that the country’s top stars are not fully committed to the Super Eagles.

Osimhen was not available for the two all-important World Cup qualifiers with an official explanation that he was injured and sidelined for four weeks.

Finidi said the Napoli striker could still have managed to play these matches, The Nation reports.

The coach went on to say that it appears that Osimhen chooses the games he plays for Nigeria and he (Finidi) cannot beg him to play for his country.”

The former Enyimba coach also bemoaned the complete breakdown of discipline in the team and was totally disappointed with how the players strolled into training camp for the crucial World Cup qualifiers.

He said many of these players had the backing of some powerful NFF Board members and that it became increasingly difficult to sanction them because he would often be warned that a player “belonged” to a certain “big man."

Nigerians have been calling for the sack of Finidi after his woeful performances in matches he had been in charge of.

The NFF also said it was scouting for a foreign technical adviser to supervise the remaining qualifying matches of the Super Eagles.

Source:
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Borussia Dortmund coach, Edin Terzic believes “anything is possible” as his side aim to pull off one of the biggest-ever shocks in a Champions League final against the mighty Real Madrid at London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

The star-studded Spanish giants are heavy favourites to be crowned European champions for the 15th time, and a sixth in the last 11 seasons, against a Dortmund team that have beaten the odds just to make it to the English capital.

Madrid have lost just twice in 54 games in all competitions this season, storming to the title in La Liga by 10 points and thrashing Barcelona 4-1 to lift the Spanish Super Cup along the way.

However, they have had to once again dig deep to reach what coach Carlo Ancelotti described as the “biggest game of any season” in the Champions League.

We have to enjoy being here,” said the Italian at his pre-match press conference. “But knowing it can go wrong because we are close to the most important thing in football -– winning a Champions League — but having the fear this can escape us.”

Ancelotti’s men withstood a barrage from defending champions Manchester City to win their quarter-final tie on penalties before another legendary late fightback at the Santiago Bernabeu to beat Bayern Munich in the last four.

“We never stop believing, no matter how the circumstances are,” said Luka Modric, who along with Nacho, Dani Carvajal and Toni Kroos, in the final match of his club career, can win the European Cup for a record-equalling sixth time as a player.

We always believe, keep believing, keep pushing, fighting until the end. In the end, we managed to find a way to beat opponents.

“Many people say there is luck, but when it happens so many times, I think it’s not just luck.”

https://sportwins.com.ng/anything-is-possible-at-wembley-dortmund-boss

Get a 2,227 sqm of land at Asokoro main Abuja.
Location : Asokoro main Walter Saliu
Purpose : Residential
Value : 1 Billion Naira only
Title: Cofo
Sharing Formula : 60/40 with premium of 100m or 50/50 without premium
TDP available

The land is fenced and gated
DM +2348100469874 for more info

DM
+2348100469874

I received a call from a representative of 21st century empowerment . Please I want to know if they are real.

Bruce Fein, the United States counsel of Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a criminal complaint with the International Criminal Court, ICC, against the Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami and Justice Binta Nyako of an Abuja Federal High Court.



He accused Malami and Nyako of conspiring with President Muhammadu Buhari and Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, "to commit crimes against humanity".



In a tweet on Thursday, April 7, Fein wrote: "Today, I filed a criminal complaint with the International Court of Justice against Nigerian Attorney General Malami and Federal High Court Justice Nyako charging them with conspiring with Nigerian President Buhari and Kenyan President Kenyatta to commit crimes against humanity."

The match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Black stars of Ghana is going to be a bone cracking and sweat spilling double encounters.
The two neighboring countries have been bitter rivals from time immemorial in this game.This world cup qualifier will rekindle the war.
I have no doubt the Eagles will soar home and away.

Nice post by Explorer. No doubt, Explorer along with Macjeb have been among the best OPs in Nairaland for some time now.
Seun supos to dey pay una for una post.

It's now a decade. Though the memories are still fresh when uncorked, the experiences are still of bitter taste to us. The horror of that day still stare stark and bare to us - the people of Kano.

We all woke up to a pleasant morning,greeted by the sweet serenade of birds nesting on trees,and by the soft rustling of leaves wriggling in the air. The air was crisp, the sky was pale blue.

Everyone bolted up to do their routines. And soon, the city was lit up and buzzing, as it had always been on every Friday. With smiles on their faces, wives bid their husbands farewell as they left their homes.

Children received last instructions from their parents before heading to school.

For the better part of the day, the city was its usual self: energetic and striving.

Then about 5:30 pm that day, when the sun was retreating to its shell, the ferocious beasts from no-where snapped in.

They announced their arrival by blowing their trumpet which shook the strongholds of the city with such vigor that had never been heard before in the land. Before the people could wrack their brains for where cometh the sound, two,three more bomb blasts followed in quick succession.

At that moment, everyone Knew "the merchants of death " have arrived. Without needing anyone to say, everybody took to their heels with reckless abandon. Old and young, men and women scampered for safety,tumbling on each other.
The sun took note and immediately hid itself from men.

Dust rising as if it were a million horses racing. Smoke filled the air, and blood rained down in full torrent. Who could believe, the police headquarters in Kano was under siege. Bomb blasts and shooting spree ensued for several hours.

The police were overpowered and hence they called for reinforcement. To those of us whose residents were just few miles away, couldn't sleep throughout.

Surely no one who's wise slept on their bed that day. Everyone was lying head down and belly flat on the ground as the battle endured throughout the whole night till about 3am or so.

The police station close to my house was sending signals. The police men were firing rounds upon rounds upon rounds of ammunitions. I even thought the war was happening behind my compound.

The night seemed interminable, and daybreak elusive. It was like we were caught up in a ravaging war, and the only means of survival was absolute silence. When the day finally had mercy on us and broke, our weeping endured the night but joy never came that morning.

There was a wide spread anguish and sorrow.
Families started looking for their loved ones. The scenes were traumatic. Corpses littered and laid bare in street. There were rivers of flowing blood.

People who couldn't reach their loved ones by phone, went out rummaging through piles of dead men seeking,at least, the remains of their own.

By own statistics, One in every 10 persons who couldn't return home that day in the neighborhood was found in hospitals or morgues. The hospitals and morgues with the state metropolis were filled up.
Some families, it took them days and weeks to locate their dead.

It was a period some recounted their ordeals and others counted their loss.
After having overrun the police headquarters,the terrorists killed to their satisfaction without any stiff resistance. To the extent that they were stopping and questioning, and killing,mostly men. Those who survived,their tales were grisly.

January 20,2012, is a day that will continue to live in infamy in the history of the state.

R.I.P to the dead.

Bastardlyrich:
Chaii God protect these ijaw girl please.
Atleast is ph and rituals is not that much.
Be hopeful and prayerful
We will join you too.

Thanks sir.
We keep praying and hoping for her return.

Deborah98:
I pray she's found.

Amen .
Thanks for your prayer.

jaeyking:
Hey
I pray she is found safe.

Not a nice way to start 2022 for the family

Thanks sir.

Seriously. It hasn't been easy for her family especially.
The new year just started on a bleak note for them.

Amen.Thanks bro for your prayers.

Please Nairalanders, help the family of Mr&Mrs Oruigoni to find their missing daughter ,Miracle Tammy Oruigoni.

She is 13 years old and resides in Portharcourt,Rivers state.

Before She went missing on 31st December,2021,she was last seen at mile one market,Portharcourt.
Please contact the phone number below if you happen to come across a girl with the same appearance as the girl in the picture.

Call +234 814 467 1776.

Let's help a family please.


Lalasticlala
Seun
Pls push this to FP.