Lionel Messi’s impact remains undeniable, and his recent accomplishment came during an extraordinary triumph for Inter Miami against Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup.
As reported by Goal, Messi delivered a sensational performance, scoring two goals in the team’s 4-0 victory alongside Robert Taylor, making a significant statement for his new club.
Of particular note, his second goal in the match earned him a new Guinness World Record, as it became the most-watched live event in the history of the United States.
The video of his goal has garnered an astounding 3.4 billion views, setting yet another remarkable milestone for the 36-year-old superstar since his move to MLS from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
Since joining Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham, Messi has already netted three goals in just two appearances, showcasing his exceptional talent on the field.
Moreover, during the same match against Atlanta United, Messi revealed a new goal celebration after his brace, as stated by Give Me Sport, adding even more excitement to his outstanding performance on Tuesday night.
Following his second goal for the team, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner stood still and extended his hand towards the franchise’s co-owner, Beckham, in what was undoubtedly a special moment for both players.
The Manchester United legend was captured smiling back at his new superstar as Messi continues to impress since making the move to the MLS this summer.
Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Messi holding numerous Guinness World Records and how the Inter Miami star is expected to earn more before he retires.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has already bagged 34 trophies and titles at the club level, making him one of the most decorated footballers ever.
Internationally, Messi has won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Copa América, and the CONMEBOL titles, and he also has seven entries in the Guinness Book.
The Paris Saint-Germain striker has been widely predicted to compete against Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland for the trophy, but the Frenchman thinks he has an advantage.
The 24-year-old claimed in a recent interview with France Football that the newly established Ballon d’Or award criteria might set him apart from the competition.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup champion, who has yet to win the prized individual award, is confident that his recent efforts would enable him to take home football’s highest title.
New rules for Ballon d’Or
The Ballon d’Or award has changed rules in recent years, with voters reportedly asked to look at how a player performed individually first before considering what he/she achieved with his/her team.
“We ask you to select the most impressive player, who had the most impact, who was the most decisive, who burned the retina the most. I have two, three things in my luggage.”
The annual award, presented to the best-performing footballer in the world, has historically been dominated by Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Argentine has won the prize on seven occasions, while his Portuguese counterpart has won it five times.
Marcus Rashford, Alex Morgan and Vinicius Junior have been named as nominees for the Socrates Award for their charity work over the last year.
Manchester United star Rashford has been put up for the prize, which will be given out at the Ballon d’Or awards ceremony, for his work helping feed children in the UK with the Child Food Poverty Task Force.
Real Madrid’s Vinicius and USWNT legend Morgan have been nominated for their efforts with their respective foundations.
Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger and Barcelona and Nigeria attacker Asisat Oshoala are the remaining nominees.
— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@francefootball) July 7, 2023
The Socrates Award was introduced by France Football last year and rewards players for their charity work outside of football.
Sadio Mane was the inaugural winner of the prize for his efforts to help people in his native Senegal.
The nominees for the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or prizes will be announced in September, as will the players up for the Puskas Award and Yacine Trophy, which go to the best goal and goalkeeper of the year respectively.
At one point, it seemed like the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner would make a comeback to Camp Nou after deciding not to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain.
Discussions took place between the involved parties, but Messi ultimately opted to pursue an American dream by joining Inter Miami in MLS.
Iniesta, who spent may successful years working alongside Messi in Catalunya before making his own move in 2018, has told DAZN of seeing his former team-mate favour the United States over Spain: “It would have been nice, special for what it means, but in the end, everyone looks for the best option, what they think will be good for them and, from there, they will probably live a different experience to what they have lived before.
“If it’s what he was looking forward to and what he wanted, I’m sure it will go well, as he did well in all the places he’s been.”
While Barca be without Messi in 2023-24, they still have the likes of Pedri at their disposal.
The talented 20-year-old is considered to be the natural heir to Iniesta at Camp Nou, with the man himself saying of the youngster’s ongoing development: “As young as he is, he is already a reference point, an important person in the team with a lot of influence in the game and, surely, this evolution that he has had during this time will continue.
He is in the best team to continue growing and I am convinced that he will have another great season.”
Barcelona claimed the Liga title in 2022-23 for the first time in four years and are in the process of bolstering their ranks – with a deal alreadydone for Ilkay Gundogan – despite seeing club legend Messi decide to head elsewhere.
Arsene Wenger’s persistent appealsfor a revision of the offside rules are set to make progress as FIFA, the global governing body for football, prepares to trial new proposals.
Wenger, who currently holds the position of Chief of Global Football Development at FIFA since his departure from Arsenal in 2018, has been advocating for changes to the offside rules.
The current interpretation often results in players being judged offside when any part of their body capable of playing the ball is ahead of the last defender.
This has led to lengthy VAR checks and disallowed goals due to minimal margins.
The forthcoming trial of the new proposals indicates that Wenger’s efforts to reform the offside rules may be gaining traction.
What is Wenger proposing?
The legendary former manager wants the whole body of a player, not just a part, to be ahead of the last defender for it to be deemed as offside.
FIFA is now set to heed to Wenger’s proposals, with Sweden becoming the first league to put the proposed changes to use. As Sports Joe reports, the country’s men’s U-21 and women’s U-19 leagues will use the new rules before it moves to other leagues in the Netherlands and in Italy.
After the trial, FIFA will sit down to discuss its impact and possible adoption before it is forwarded to the International Football Association Board(IFAB) which approves any permanent rules of the game.
Inside the changes to Ballon d’Or rules
Sports Brief has previously reported that The 2023 Ballon d’Or debate has already shaped into a battle between an existing superstar and one of his heir apparent.
At 35 years old, Lionel Messi is still in the running to win the individual prize and remains a strong candidate to win a record-extending eighth title, but Erling Haaland is set to have a say as well.
L’Equipe, the magazine responsible for organising the annual gala where the best individual performances are feted, announced changes to the Ballon d’Or rules in 2021, shortly after Messi had clinched his 7th gong.
As an unwavering Ronaldo superfan hailing from the United States, iShowSpeed had faced multiple instances of missed opportunities to connect with his football icon in the past.
However, on Saturday, June 17, his deepest aspirations became a reality, thanks to the efforts of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao.
Leao played a crucial role in orchestrating the long-awaited encounter between iShowSpeed and the illustrious five-time Ballon d’Or recipient, as reported by Sportskeeda.
Overwhelmed by Ronaldo’s presence, Speed transitioned from embracing the Al-Nassr star to flawlessly replicating Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuuu’ celebration.
This remarkable encounter finally fulfilled his aspirations, which had previously been met with heartbreak and frustration.
For several awe-stricken minutes following the encounter, he found himself lost in disbelief, struggling to comprehend his extraordinary luck, MARCA reports.
Nevertheless, he swiftly regained his composure, seizing the opportunity to capture a few treasured photographs alongside his idol.
Speed, a renowned YouTube live streamer, has risen to become one of the most influential content creators on the platform, thanks to his vibrant personality and exceptional wit.
Remarkably, even while juggling high school demands, he has reached the zenith of success on the video sharing and social media platform – YouTube.
Upon completing his recent graduation, iShowSpeed was presented with a gift that exceeded all expectations – meeting his hero Cristiano Ronaldo.
Leao helps Speed meet Ronaldo
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that iShowSpeed, a well-known YouTuber, finally had the chance to meet his idol,Cristiano Ronaldo, following Portugal’s triumphant three-nil victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Saturday, June 17.
As an unwavering fan, Speed had been relentlessly attempting to meet the Al-Nassr superstar for several months, encountering disappointments on multiple occasions.
Standing alongside Speed, Leao seized the opportunity to stop Ronaldo, leading to a mesmerizing moment for the American YouTuber. Visibly awestruck, Speed watched his ultimate desires unfold before his eyes as he stood face-to-face with his idol.
While starring for Argentina against Australia, Lionel Messi made a hint regarding his Inter Miami debut.
In his team’s triumph over the Aussies on Thursday in an international friendly, Messi scored after just 79 seconds.
After a demanding 41-game season for Paris Saint-Germain, he played the complete 90 minutes.
According to ESPN, the 35-year-old has subsequently signed with Inter Miami of Major League Soccer, raising the possibility of when he may play his debut game for his new team.
Asked about his schedule for his new US side, as quoted by Mirror UK, he replied:
“I want to go on my holiday and then afterwards, we go again.”
The 2022 World Cup winners face Indonesia in another friendly next Monday, but the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will leave the Argentina camp for a break, which could last up to three weeks.
He is expected to return to his home country before linking up with Inter Miami, which means he could play his first game in America around mid-to-late July.
“What I said [about Qatar 2022 likely being his last World Cup] is something normal due to age and time. Qualifying matches are coming, then the Copa America; it is very far to think about the World Cup.”
The Argentine veteran also believes one has to enjoy the present.
“…Think about what’s to come, despite the wins – we can’t stay with that.”
The United States of America, Canada, and Mexico will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the States being Messi’s new home country.
Messi snubs City’s youngster request
Sports Brief also reported on Messi snubbing Australia’s Alex Robertson for a jersey switch at the end of their international friendly on June 15.
The veteran captained Argentina to a 2-0 win in Beijing, with the departing Paris Saint-Germain forward scoring the fastest goal of his stellar career.
After the game, Robertson was seemingly ignored by Messi, with the Manchester City player unable to attract the attention of the new MLS man.
Messi on 2026 World Cup
Messi was also asked about the prospect of representing Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The forward, who will be 39 when the next tournament rolls around, said it would be difficult:
“What I said [about Qatar 2022 likely being his last World Cup] is something normal due to age and time. Qualifying matches are coming, then the Copa America; it is very far to think about the World Cup.”
The Argentine veteran also believes one has to enjoy the present.
“…Think about what’s to come, despite the wins – we can’t stay with that.”
The United States of America, Canada, and Mexico will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the States being Messi’s new home country.
Cristiano Ronaldo has recently disclosed the significance behind his famous ‘Siuuuu’ celebration, which has gained worldwide recognition and become a”global phenomenon”.
The word ‘Siu’ translates to ‘yes’ in Portuguese.
The celebration has not only been embraced and replicated by Ronaldo’s devoted fans but has also been adopted by professional athletes from different sports.
He is believed to have first screamed ‘Siu’ after winning the 2014 Ballon d’Or, which was his third such individual award. Ronaldo has now revealed what he thinks about his celebration and what it actually signifies.
“It seems to have grown into its own global phenomenon – and I love when I see other players doing it, or people send me videos of people in other sports doing it or little kids doing it – it’s great.
It means yes – very simple but meaning it strongly!” Ronaldo said to LiveScore, for whom he is an Official Global Brand Ambassador.
Ronaldo had previously revealed that he had not put any thought behind the celebration and was invented in the spur of the moment during a pre-season match against Chelsea in the United States.
“I started to say ‘si’, it’s like ‘yes’, when I was in Real Madrid. I was in the USA and we played against Chelsea and I don’t know where this is coming from, the celebration,” he said. “I just scored the goal and it just came out.
It was just natural, to be honest. Since that, I started to do it more often and I feel like the supporters and the fans see it and they’re like ‘Cristiano, siiiiiiuuuu’.
I’m like ‘wow! People are reminded of me because of it!’ So it’s good, and I’ll continue doing it like that.”
Ronaldo is currently on a break after the end of Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League season, but will return to action with the Portugal national team for a Euro 2024 qualifier against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 17.
The renowned Argentine superstar is poised to make his acting debut, indicating his interest in the world of entertainment.
Having achieved immense success in football, including four UEFA Champions League titles and seven Ballon d’Or awards, the 35-year-old has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Reports from Sportskeeda suggest that Messi will be appearing in the second season of the popular Argentine TV series ‘Los Protectores.’
The show revolves around the struggles of three football agents who have faced financial ruin and are in desperate need of money.
This acting opportunity allows Messi to explore his talents beyond the realm of football.
The second season of ‘Los Protectores’ will premiere on June 25 and features Adrian Suar, Andres Parra, Gustavo Bermudez and Lionel Messi as the star actors in the TV series.
Messi, who guided Argentina to the2022 FIFA World Cup trophy, is yet to disclose his next football club with his current deal with Paris Saint-Germain set to expire this summer.
Messi to Chelsea transfer gains momentum
Meanwhile, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has been given a last-gasp chance to sign Lionel Messi for the struggling Premier League club this summer.
Despite offers from all over the world, Messi wants to stay in Europe and win the Champions League again and the Blues will try to convince the 35-year-old to make the switch to Stamford Bridge.
While Chelsea will not be in the Champions League next season, owner Boehly will not be shy about splashing the cash, and a goal scorer is at the top of his wish list.
Messi meets with Barcelona captains
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Barcelona players got a break from training last week following their La Liga Santander title triumph against RCD Espanyol and the subsequent bus parade.
Though two are set to depart, the three club captains,Sergio Busquets, Sergi Roberto, and Jordi Alba travelled to Paris, where they met with former teammate Lionel Messi.
The three Barcelona veterans met with their former teammate over dinner in Paris last week and many things, including their club futures, were discussed.
Football fans on social media are certain that Bernardo Silva was unfollowed by as a result of the Manchester City player’s remarks on the Ballon d’Or discussion.
After a second stint at Manchester United marred by crises, Cristiano Ronaldo moved to the Middle East, where he now plays for Al-Nassr, and has since slid down the pecking order.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo faced off in an exhibition match earlier this year
When he was at the height of his powers, Silva, who shares the international locker room with Ronaldo, discussed how he used to feel when he didn’t win the most coveted individual accolade.
“I was in the selection two or three times when he won it. We congratulate him and we talk. When he doesn’t win, we’re not happy too because he’s a player who really likes to be on top. He talks to people: ‘I thought I deserved a little more’, a really competitive player, who is into this type of thing.
He likes to be on top a lot,” he said, as quoted by Sportskeeda.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward won the Qatar World Cup with Argentina, and it is believed he is already a frontrunner to win his record-extending eighth title.
It is these comments that fans believe made Ronaldo unfollow Silva.
It is not understood if he followed him in the first place, but the national team captain follows a number of Selecao regulars like Pepe, Joao Moutinho, and Bruno Fernandes.
Neville settles Ronaldo, Messi debate
Sports Brief has also reported that Gary Neville is the latest high-profile ex-footballer to weigh in on the eternal argument on who the football GOAT is between Ronaldo and Messi.
The debate over which football star rules between the Portuguese icon and his long-time Argentine adversary has frequently caused division among fans, pundits and even players.
Neville praised the legendary duo ofRonaldo and Messi as the best players of all time before seemingly basing his decision on which of the two he had personally interacted with.
The debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as to who is the greatest player of all time is a long-standing and highly contested topic in the world of football. Both players have achieved incredible success and have consistently performed at an exceptional level throughout their careers.
Lionel Messi, an Argentine forward, spent the majority of his career with Barcelona before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.
Messi is known for his exceptional dribbling skills, close ball control, and vision on the field. He has won numerous individual awards, including the prestigious Ballon d’Or, and has broken multiple records, including the most goals scored in a calendar year.
Most won Ballon d’Or players, Lionel messi and CR7
On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese forward, has played for several top clubs, including Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and currently, Al-Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Al-Nassr on April 9, 2023. Photo by ABDULAZIZ ALNOMAN.
Ronaldo is known for his incredible athleticism, goal-scoring ability, and versatility on the field. Like Messi, he has also won multiple Ballon d’Or awards and holds various records, including being the all-time leading scorer in the UEFA Champions League.
The debate over who is the greatest player of all time often boils down to personal preferences and opinions.
Messi is often praised for his natural talent, exceptional playmaking ability, and consistency, while Ronaldo is admired for his incredible work ethic, physical prowess, and goal-scoring prowess.
Supporters of Messi argue that his style of play is more aesthetically pleasing, and his ability to control the game with his dribbling and passing sets him apart.
Argentine star and PSG forward, Lionel Messi
They also point to his incredible longevity at the top level and his numerous team accomplishments with Barcelona.
Ronaldo’s supporters, on the other hand, emphasize his unmatched athleticism, goal-scoring record, and versatility to excel in different positions. They argue that Ronaldo has proven himself in multiple leagues and has achieved success with various clubs, demonstrating his adaptability and impact.
Cristiano Ronaldo won’t be penalised for the vulgar, crotch-grabbing action he made during his final match for Al-Nassr, which caused so much uproar.
Against Al-Hilal on Tuesday, the Portuguese superstar had a disastrous performance that brought further scrutiny to his antics.
After delivering a tackle akin to those seen in Wrestling on a rival, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was fortunate to only receive a yellow card. Following this, Messi insults from the crowd continued.
Ronaldo appeared to react to those by grabbing his crotch in the direction of his tormentors, leading to widespread condemnation throughout the Middle East and calls for him to be expelled from the Saudi Pro League.
The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Football Association has looked into the incident and delivered its verdict, with it determined that no further action is required.
The only penalty handed out by the committee is a 15,000 riyals fine, which his non-appealable, to Al-Nassr due to the late arrival of their players on the pitch for the start of the second-half.
Ronaldo escaped punishment as only official match football was reviewed – rather than the videos which have been posted on social media.
Al-Nassr were always confidentthat their iconic forward, who is the highest-paid player on the planet, would avoid any action as they claim that the 38-year-old was merely reacting to an injury he suffered in the groin region. They said: “Ronaldo suffers from an injury.
His challenge with Gustavo Cuellar, the Al-Hilal player, started with a blow in a very sensitive area.
This is confirmed information. As for the fans’ explanations, they are free to think whatever they want.”
Karim Benzema has scored back-to-back hat-tricks for Real Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti thinks that he can win another Ballon d’Or.
After scoring three goals in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal against Barcelona last Wednesday, Benzema added three more goals in this week’s 6-0 LaLiga victory over Real Valladolid.
In a Madrid career spanning 14 trophy-laden seasons, it is the first time the former France international has scored consecutive hat-tricks.
Having won the Ballon d’Or for the first time in 2022 on the back of a superb year for Los Blancos, Ancelotti has backed Benzema to challenge for the individual accolade again.
“Why not?” Ancelotti said following his side’s 4-1 aggregate victory against Barcelona. “He remains one of the best players in the world – and not just attacking players.”
Benzema now has 25 goals in 31 appearances this season – a tally bettered by Robert Lewandowski (27), Marcus Rashford (28), Kylian Mbappe (31) and Erling Haaland (42).
That includes 19 goals in 19 games since the World Cup, while the 35-year-old’s back-to-back hat-tricks have come straight on the back of the international break.
“The work he did during the international break helped him a lot,”Ancelotti said of Benzema, who announced his latest retirement from France duty in December.
“He is in prime physical condition. With the qualities he has, he inevitably makes a difference for us.”
Real Madrid will face Osasuna, who beat Athletic Bilbao, in the Copa del Rey final on May 6.
Since joining Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo has maintained fantastic fitness.
The former Manchester United forward has been on fire, and Al-Nassr is in a strong position to compete with Al-Ittihad for the Saudi Pro League championship as a result of his outstanding play.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner continued his incredible run in front of goal against Al-Adalah on Tuesday night at Prince Abdullah Bin Jalawi Stadium.
Manchester Evening News reports that the Portuguese star added to an impressive goal tally during the clash as he netted a brace to inspire Al-Nassr to a 5-0 epic win over the hosts.
Ronaldo netted his first from the penalty spot moments before the break and added the second in the second half.
Ronaldo destroys opponent
Apart from Ronaldo’s two goals, one other outstanding thing from his performance against Al-Adalah was his insane skill that left his opponent in the dust.
GiveMeSports reports that the 38-year-old showed an impressive turn of pace to leave an opponent in the dust before he fired a fierce left-footed shot at goal.
The forward’s incredible skill in the run-up to the sent fans into a meltdown, with some taking to social media in praise of the Portugal international.
One posted: “Fair play, good goal.” A second noted: “With his weak foot…. Goat forever.” Another added: “I love this.I cant remember how many of this kinda goals have seen. Happy for my man. A Goated G.O.A.T.”
Online videos have surfaced showingLionel Messi’s response to the heckling of Paris Saint-Germain supporters.
Prior to the club’s Sunday night home loss in the French top division, Messi was the target of jeers and whistles from the supporters.
Since their club’s round-of-16 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has drawn the ire of some fans.
According to the supporters, Messi underperforms for Les Parisiens when compared to his performance for Argentina, according to ESPN.
At the start of PSG’s first league game since the international break, whistles and boos greeted the veteran’s name during the team’s lineup announcement over the loudspeaker, talkSPORT reports.
It proved to be an omen for a fourth defeat in Ligue 1 since the turn of the year, as Bradley Barcola’s early strike in the second half inflicted the latest loss for PSG at the Parc des Princes.
How Messi reacted to jeering
Since then, a video of how Messi reacted to the fan outrage has now surfaced online. In the clip, the veteran forward took it in his stride by simply laughing.
Meanwhile, the club is racing against time to tie the Argentine to a contract extension before his current deal runs out this summer.
His situation has prompted keen interest from a variety of suitors, including Barcelona.
PSG fans boo Messi again
Sports Brief also reported on PSG fans continuing to register their displeasure with Messi by jeering the 2022World Cup winner.
The 35-year-old has been subjected to boos by supporters, who claim he does not do enough when turning up for the Parisians.
Prior to the international break, Messi endured a similar treatment by fans after PSG’s surprise home loss to Rennes in Ligue 1.
Cristiano Ronaldo has unveiled a new goal celebration after finding the back of the net for Portugal against Luxembourg on Sunday night.
The 38-year-old was in a mood after opening the scoring nine minutes into the game for Robert Martinez’s side.
The Real Madrid and Manchester United legend raced away towards the left corner as he often does before producing his trademark ‘siuuu’ celebration.
Joao Felix and Bernardo Silva were also on the scoresheet to make it 3-0 for the 2016 European champions before Ronaldo notched his second and Portugal’s fourth early in the second half.
As the five-time Ballon d’Or winner landed from his spin, he mixed it up with his other celebration, crossing his hands across his chest, a slight variation on the interlocking fingers.
A new era started in the Portuguese national team yesterday as new boss Roberto Martinez managed his first game, a 4-0 win over Lichtenstein inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s brace.
As reported earlier, the former Wigan manager quickly spotted a standout attribute in Ronaldo and praised the 38-year-old’s commitment which he said would be a vital experience for the team.
Winning Euro 2024 is the goal for Martinez, andhe has made it clear to Ronaldo that he would demand a lot from him to win the tournament in Germany next year.
Ronaldo proud to set record Cristiano Ronaldo is feeling the joy of playing football again after a turbulent 2022 in his professional and personal life, Sports Brief earlier reported.
The 38-year-old had a difficult time off the field, which was not well-acknowledged at Manchester United. This led him to doing an explosive interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan and subsequently led to his contract termination.
Ronaldo’s 197 international appearances and 120 international goals for his country are world records, according to Sportskeeda, and he could not have been prouder at holding both.
He took to his Instagram page, which is the most followed in the world and expressed his joy at attaining a new milestone on the international stage.
Cristiano Ronaldo has talked openly about how his ritual of talking to his late father and son motivates him to improve himself as a person. Due to his outstanding accomplishments, the Al-Nassr captain is regarded as one of the greatest footballers to ever play the game.
Despite being on the wrong side of 40, the 38-year-old has not lost his enthusiasm for his work and still strives for greatness in the latter stages of his professional life. After scoring eight goals in four games during the reviewed month, he was recently named the Saudi Pro League’s Player of the Month for February.
Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a plane load of care items to the victims of recent earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.
He has paid for tents, medical supplies, warm clothes, bedding, food and baby supplies to boost the aid effort 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ne4wK4n8tq
Aside from his prowess on the field, Ronaldo is also admired for his humanitarian works, which was evidenced as he sent relief items to victims of the Turkey and Syria earthquake. Ronaldo takes inspiration from dad and son Throwing light on where he derives his passion for striving to be the best version of himself, Ronaldo said, as quoted by Frank Khalid.
Ronaldo and his late dad
Although Ronaldo admits he never really shared a father-son moment with his late dad Jose Dinis Aveiro, the former Manchester United ace holds him in high esteem.
As a result of his father’s struggles with alcohol, the five-timeBallon d’Or completely abstains from alcohol. Ronaldo was just 20 when his father died in 2005, per the Sun. Cristiano loses baby son Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez were expecting twins in April last year; however, one of the twins, his son, died during childbirth. He admitted the death of his son was the worst moment of his life.
“[It was] probably the worst moment that I passed through in my life since my father died,” the ex-Real Madrid forward said, as quoted by Eurosport. “When you have a kid, you expect that everything will be normal, and you have that problem, it’s hard…we had quite difficult moments because we don’t understand why it happened to us.
Kaka picks Ronaldo as GOAT Sports Brief previously reported that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been compared as the greatest players in football history throughout their careers – but which one is the true GOAT?
Ronaldo and Messi have broken, rewritten, and set enough records to practically last a lifetime in their illustrious careers, some of which may never be matched. Kaka, who won the 2007 Ballon d’Or prize ahead of the GOAT duo, once described Messi as a genius while commending Ronaldo for his mentality.
George Oppong Weah, the president of Liberia, has made a $10,000 donation to the family of the lateChristian Atsu, a former winger for Newcastle United and Chelsea.
Former Black Stars player Kwame Ayew made the donation on behalf of George Weah, the only African footballer to have won the Ballon d’Or award.
On February 22, 2023, Kwame Ayew made a donation on behalf of George Weah while accompanying some members of the Ghanaian Liberian Community to the home of Christian Atsu.
Christian Atsu’s body, which was found in the ruins after an earthquake in Turkey on February 6, arrived in Ghana in the wee hours of Sunday.
The 31-year-old got trapped in his destroyed apartment for over a week before he was found dead.
The family is yet to announce plans for the burial and funeral of the winger, who was crowned best player at the 2015 AFCON.
Former Real Madrid forward and honorary club president, Amancio Amaro, passed away at the age of 83.
Amancio, a right-sided attacker, joined Madrid from Deportivo de La Coruna in 1962 and played 471 times for Los Blancos, tallying 155 goals.
Amancio, who finished third in the 1964 Ballon d’Or voting, played a significant role in Spain’s victory as European champions in addition to winning nine league championships and one European Cup with Madrid.
Amancio helped Emilio Butragueno and other players grow after he retired by coaching Madrid’s Castilla team to the second-tier championship in 1984. After Paco Gento passed away last year, Amancio was named honorary club president.
A club statement read: “Real Madrid CF, its president and its board of directors deeply regret the death of Amancio Amaro, honorary president of Real Madrid and one of the great legends of our club and of world football.
“Together with Paco Gento, Amancio led Real Madrid after five consecutive European Cups, and represents the values that have forged the history of our club.
“Amancio Amaro has passed away at the age of 83. He will be remembered by all Madridistas and by all football fans as one of the great legends of this sport.
After dominating European football for nearly two decades, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have both been referred to as the greatest players of their generation by their supporters.
The two have amassed numerous team and individual championships throughout their careers, making them the most Ballon d’Or winners with five and seven, respectively.
The argument over which of the two is superior has been raging for more than ten years.
Beckham is the most recent player to weigh in on which of the two superstars is superior.
In an earlier interview with ESPN Argentine, via Tribuna, the Manchester United legend admitted that the Argentine was in a class of his own: “It has to be Messi,” Beckham said. I love Leo for many different reasons. I love him because he’s a great father. I love him because he’s a great personality, a character. He’s a great person. “But I think what everybody loves about him is the way he plays the game.
He plays the game with passion. He plays the game just free the way he plays. “And I think this past World Cup again. I think the way he played for his team, for his country, and to win that World Cup was an incredible moment for him. And I love watching players like him.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea legend, Joe Cole has picked Lionel Messi ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest player in the history of football, Daily Post reports.
Joe Cole insists that neither Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo nor the late Diego Maradona can be compared to the Argentine World Cup star.
Messi’s victory with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, according to the former England international, has put the debate between the Paris Saint-Germain superstar and Ronaldo to rest. Fernando Torres settles GOAT debate Earlier, Sports Brief reported the football world continues to be divided on who’s the greatest of all time between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The decades-long debate continues to rage on, with former and current footballers weighing in with thoughts on who’s better between both superstars. Former Liverpool and Chelsea forward Fernando Torres picked Messi ahead of Ronaldo, thereby staking his claim on the debate on which of the superstars is superior.
Toni Kroos and Aurlien Tchouameni, two crucial midfielders for Real Madrid, won’t be travelling to Liverpool with the team, but Karim Benzema has been called up.
The Ballon d’Or winner from the previous year, Karim Benzema, missed Saturday’s victory over Osasuna due to an injury hit campaign.
The 35-year-old, who has 14 goals this season, returned to training before Tuesday’s Champions League match at Anfield, and as a result, he has been added to Carlo Ancelotti’s travelling party.
Madrid won’t be able to use Kroos or Tchouameni, though.
The two injured players did not participate in the game against Osasuna and were not on Madrid’s roster, which was announced on Monday.
Ancelotti will be hoping Kroos and Tchouameni return to fitness in time to face city rivals Atletico Madrid on Saturday in LaLiga, with a Copa del Rey Classico against Barcelona following on March 2.
Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in last season’s Champions League final, a match that was overshadowed by policing issues outside of the Stade de France.
Vinicius Junior scored the only goal as Thibaut Courtois turned in a fine display to help Madrid claim a 14th European crown.
Paris St-Germain and Argentina forward Lionel Messi won the Ballon d’Or – awarded to the best footballer of the year – for a record seventh time.
Messi, 34, helped his country win the Copa America, his first international honour, and has scored 40 goals in 2021 – 28 for Barcelona, four for Paris St-Germain and eight for Argentina.
Bayern Munich and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski came second, Chelsea and Italy midfielder Jorginho was third and Real Madrid’s French striker Karim Benzema finished fourth.
The Ballon d’Or is voted for by 180 journalists from around the world, although there was no award in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo (five wins) collected the award every year from 2008 to 2019, apart from in 2018 when Croatia midfielder Luka Modric won it.
Messi had already won the trophy more times than any other player and his seventh success comes after wins in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2019.
“It’s incredible to be here again,” he said at the ceremony, held at Paris’s Theatre du Chatelet.
“Two years ago I thought it was the last time. People were starting to ask me when I was going to retire but now I’m here in Paris and very happy.
“It’s a special year for me with this Copa America title. It meant a lot to win [1-0 against Brazil in the final] at the Maracana stadium and I was so happy to celebrate with the people from Argentina.
“I don’t know if it’s the best year of my life – I’ve had a long career – but it was a special one with the title with Argentina after the tough times and the criticism.”
Messi also had warm words for the runner-up, 33-year-old Poland captain Lewandowski.
“I wanted to say to Robert that it was an honour to go up against him,” said Messi. “He deserved to win it last year.”
Lewandowski scored 53 goals in all competitions in 2021 for Bayern and was awarded the Striker of the Year prize, a new award that was only announced hours before the ceremony began.
Paris St-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, who helped Italy win Euro 2020, won the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, while Champions League winners Chelsea were named Club of the Year.
Barcelona midfielder Pedri, 19, won the Kopa Trophy for the best player aged under 21, with England internationals Jude Bellingham, Mason Greenwood and Bukayo Saka coming second, fifth and sixth respectively.
Fourteen of the 30 players shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or currently play in the Premier League.
Chelsea had five players represented, with third-placed Jorginho joined by N’Golo Kante in fifth, Romelu Lukaku in 12th, Mason Mount in 19th and Cesar Azpilicueta, who tied for 29th.
Premier League champions Manchester City had the same number as Kevin de Bruyne came eighth, Raheem Sterling 15th, Riyad Mahrez 20th, Phil Foden 25th and Ruben Dias 26th.
Manchester United pair Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes were sixth and tied for 21st respectively, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah was seventh and Tottenham’s Harry Kane 23rd.
Lionel Messi was the joint top goalscorer in the Copa America as Argentina won to give him his first international honour
