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Tag: World Cup

  • Mbappe trains with PSG three days after World Cup final defeat

    Three days after France’s loss in the World Cup final, Kylian Mbappe returned to Paris Saint-Germain training on Wednesday.

    Mbappe became just the second player to score three goals in a World Cup final with his hat-trick against Argentina on Sunday.

    However, it was only enough to secure a 3-3 tie and send a confused France squad to a penalty shootout, where they lost 4-2 despite Mbappe once more scoring from the spot.

    After scoring once in France’s 2018 victory and setting a new record for most World Cup final goals, Mbappe won the Golden Boot award ahead of PSG teammate Lionel Messi.

    Messi and Argentina continued to enjoy their victory over Qatar 2022 at home this week, while Mbappe quickly returned to club play after his 24th birthday on Tuesday.

    Next Wednesday, PSG returns to competitive play in Ligue 1 against Strasbourg in an effort to increase their five-point lead atop the standings.

    Kylian Mbappe’s younger brother, Ethan, has participated in mid-season friendlies with the PSG first squad and sat on the bench for Wednesday’s match against Quevilly-Rouen.

  • World Cup 2022: Six lessons from the historic finals for Africa

    After a slow start to Qatar 2022, Africa’s five representatives delivered the continent’s finest World Cup in history.

    A record seven wins in the group stage – with all five sides winning at least one game – was enough to propel two teams, Morocco and African champions Senegal, to the knockout phase for only the second time, and first since 2014.

    The Atlas Lions added icing to the cake by becoming the first African side to reach the semi-finals, ultimately undone by 2018 champions France.

    After suffering its worst World Cup just four years ago, when Africa failed to reach the second round for the first time since 1982, the continent has rebounded in spectacular fashion.

    “I’m delighted with the standard of African football because for many decades now, we’ve been talking about the development of African football and when their time will come – I think their time has come,” said Fifa president Gianni Infantino.

    So what exactly did the continent learn from Qatar 2022?

    • ‘The Miracle of Morocco’

    Sofyan Amrabat

    Morocco’s Sofyan Amrabat was one of the players of the tournament with his unending energy in midfield

    It was the African story of the World Cup – unfancied Morocco nearly going all the way. They topped their group, beating Belgium and Canada before dispatching Spain and Portugal to finally reach the last four.

    Appointed in August, Coach Walid Regragui recalled outcasts, brought in youngsters and nurtured a spirit that made the Atlas Lions one of the top four teams in the world.

    “We are much more of a family, more of a club side than a national team,” said Regragui. “I think that’s what’s given us this great strength.”

    “The whole world is proud of this Moroccan team. We showed desire, played hard and have given a good image of Morocco and African football.”

    Prior to Morocco’s sensational run, Africa – which officially finished fourth – had never gone past the quarter-finals, with only Cameroon (1990), Senegal (2002) and Ghana (2010) having reached that stage before.

    • Door ever wider for female officials

    Rwandan official Salima Mukansanga and France forward Kylian Mbappe

    Salima Mukansanga – the first female fourth official in World Cup history – ushers on Kylian Mbappe during France’s shock loss to Tunisia

    For the first time in World Cup history, three women were among the 36 selected for the elite group of referees with three more acting as assistant referees.

    Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga, Stephanie Frappart of France and Japan’s Yoshimi Yamashita were the refereeing trailblazers, even if only Frappart made history when officiating a game in Qatar from the middle.

    Nonetheless, Mukansanga achieved her own piece of history when becoming the first female fourth official at a men’s World Cup in France’s 4-1 defeat of Australia, prior to handling three more games, two of which included Tunisia.

    Having been the first woman to referee a men’s Africa Cup of Nations clash in January, the 34-year-old’s elevation provides yet further inspiration for the next generation of African officials, with Fifa saying it is selecting the best referees regardless of gender.

    “It means you’re going to open the doors for other women, especially in Africa,’ said Mukansanga.

    “The opportunities are there – it’s up to us to take them.”

    • Africa is slaying giants again

    Vincent Aboubakar of Cameroon

    Vincent Aboubakar exited Qatar in sensational style, scoring the goal that beat Brazil before ruefully smiling at his red card for taking his shirt off in celebration

    Africa is no stranger to sinking defending champions, with Cameroon and Senegal beating Argentina and France in 1990 and 2002 respectively, but it had been some 20 years since such a feat.

    On this occasion, Tunisia ensured their early elimination finished on a high after stunning a weakened French side thanks to veteran Wabhi Khazri’s strike.

    “Of course we are disappointed to be going out – because we didn’t do enough in the first two matches – but we have made the Tunisian people proud,” the Tunisia captain said afterwards.

    This seismic shock was soon followed by another as Cameroon became the first African side to ever beat five-time champions, and tournament favourites, Brazil at the World Cup.

    Vincent Aboubakar’s 93rd-minute goal was not enough to keep the Indomitable Lions in Qatar, as with the Tunisians, but he delivered a weighty punch about the state of the African game.

    “I didn’t even realise it was such a historic victory,” admitted coach Rigobert Song. “My players should be congratulated and they’ve shown they could have done better. We are going to keep working to improve.”

    • ‘Home support’ in the Middle East

    Morocco football fans hold a replica World Cup trophy in Qatar

    Moroccan fans hold up a replica of the World Cup during their historic Qatar 2022 campaign

    The continent’s North African teams enjoyed massive support in Qatar, where there are sizeable Moroccan and Tunisian communities already, with the fans making a real difference to their team’s fortunes.

    After Tunisia’s opening game – a hard-fought and gutsy 0-0 draw with Denmark – coach Jalel Kadri was appreciative of the tumultuous backing.

    “The fan factor was very positive for us, it mentally gave us a great lift,” he said.

     

    Nonetheless, it was ultimately Morocco’s supporters who made the biggest impression and who were, behind champions Argentina’s legions of fans, the second-best followed.

    Tens of thousands joyously descended on Qatar as the Atlas Lions roamed further in the World Cup than any African or Arab side before.

    “This is a night I’m going to tell my children and grandchildren about,” supporter Soufiane Megrini, who had just witnessed the quarter-final win over Portugal, told the BBC.

    • Ghana recruitment yet to bear fruit

    Mohamed Salisu

    New Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu scores in the Black Stars’ 3-2 win over South Korea, the 2010 quarter-finalists’ sole win in Qatar

    Ghana squeaked into the tournament with an away goals win over Nigeria in the World Cup play-offs but it was clear they needed more quality ahead of the World Cup itself.

    So alongside technical director Chris Hughton, they set about persuading players with Ghana heritage to join the project – with defenders Mohammed Salisu and Tariq Lamptey and forward Inaki Williams among those coming in.

    Recruiting players with dual nationality after World Cup qualification itself raised questions in Ghana both before and after the finals, especially with the Black Stars exiting in the group stages – even if they did at least gain revenge on their 2010 foes when helping knock out Uruguay.

    “Football is beautiful, sometimes it is ugly – it was ugly for us today,” said coach Otto Addo after the costly loss. “I’m very sure we will learn from this.”

    Yet Addo soon resigned, leaving behind a World Cup squad built for the future with 12 players aged 23 or under – including Brighton and Hove Albion’s Lamptey and Bristol City forward Antoine Semenyo.

    There is none finer however than one of Africa’s outstanding youngsters – Mohammed Kudus, 22 – with the attacking midfielder’s class shining through and resulting in two goals in Ghana’s solitary win.

    • African champions’ costly lack of depth

    Senegalese players celebrate Ismaila Sarr's penalty strike against Ecuador

    Senegal celebrate Ismaila Sarr’s penalty strike against Ecuador

    Senegal were dealt a massive blow when star striker Sadio Mane – named the world’s second-best footballer two months ago – had to withdraw on the eve of the finals through injury.

    It handcuffed Aliou Cisse’s carefully-laid plans, since the coach clearly had no replacement anywhere near the same level – despite the best efforts of Ismaila Sarr, who scored twice, Bouna Dia and Iliman Ndiaye, who is one to watch.

    The final group game win over Ecuador secured a second knockout appearance twenty years after their first but without Everton’s Idrissa Gana Gueye, who was suspended, and fellow midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate, injured in the group stage, the Teranga Lions struggled to contain England and crashed out.

    “In all countries in Africa, there is a real sports policy in place,” said Cisse after the Round of 16 exit. “We have to keep that up if we want to win these tournaments.”

    Having gone further than ever, the continental confidence collected in Qatar has prompted Morocco’s inspirational coach Walid Regragui to say a first African title is less than two decades away.

     

  • What is a Bisht? The black cloak Lionel Messi wore

    In celebration of Argentina’s triumph over France in the World Cup final on Sunday, December 18, Lionel Messi carried the trophy while donning a black cloak.

    The championship game of Qatar 2022 was a game to remember, with Argentina winning on penalties after the score was tied 3-3 after 120 minutes of thrilling action.

    A penalty from Messi and Angel Di Maria’s strike put the Alibceleste in charge of the final as they went 2-0 up at half time.

    They appeared to be cruising to a convincing win before Kylian Mbappe levelled for France as he scored twice in the space of 97 seconds – the first a penalty and the second a brilliantly taken volley.

    Messi then struck early in the second half of extra-time but he and Argentina were pegged back once again with another Mbappe penalty.

    The final was then decided via a dreaded shootout and Argentina came up trumps as Emiliano Martinez saved Kingsley Coman’s spot-kick and Aurelien Tchouameni fired wide. Argentina scored all four of their penalties.

     

    Messi won the Player of the Tournament award before getting his hands on the trophy that had eluded him throughout his career.

    Before the iconic moment he exchanged pleasantries with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Emir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who put a robe on him just before the trophy lift.

    The cloak Messi was wearing is a Bisht, which is a traditional men’s cloak that’s popular in the Arab world and is understood to date back thousands of years.

    A Bisht is worn on special occasions such as weddings or celebration of festivals such as Eid, the religious holiday celebrated by Muslims that marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan.

    Dr Mustafa Baig, a lecturer in Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, said: “Only a select few people would actually wear the bisht.

    Speaking about Messi wearing the garment, Dr Baig said: “They basically honoured him by putting it over his shoulders.

    “It’s like a mark of honour, and just kind of a cultural welcoming and a cultural acceptance.”

    BBC presenter Gary Lineker felt the decision spoiled what should have been a “magic moment”.

    The former England striker said: “This is a magic moment. It seems a shame in a way that they’ve covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt.”

    Ex-Argentina defender Pablo Zabaleta agreed, saying: “Just why? No reason to do that.”

    It may have been a bizarre sight to those not familiar with the custom, but it was not as strange as Infantino’s white trainers.

    While nothing odd about the footwear, the fact he had them customised so ‘FIFA’ was printed on the side of them.

  • How Davido’s uncle reacted to the singer’s performance in Qatar

    Davido’s uncle, who doubles as the Governor of Osun State in Nigeria, Mr. Ademola Adeleke, has hailed the singer for what he described as an impressive show at the closing ceremony of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    In a video shared on his social media platforms, Mr. Ademola Adeleke was captured in the company of some individuals grooving to Davido’s performance which took place in the presence of thousands of spectators gathered in the stadium.

    He shared the said video with the caption;

    “Myself and the beautiful people of Osun love you, Davido. We all watched your performance live and you put a smile on our faces. Thank you for representing the nation yet alone the state of Osun.”

    However, the ‘Jowo’ hitmaker was supported by fans all over the world after he made his return to the stage, months after the demise of his three-year-old son.

    The Nigerian Afrobeats superstar was among a host of artistes who entertained the audience at Lusail Stadium after Argentina’s clash with France in the World Cup final.

    The 30-year-old singer performed the 2022 World Cup theme song alongside Dana, Aisha, Ozuna, Gims, Nora Fathi, Balqees, Rahma Riad, and Manal.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • France greeted in Paris after World Cup final defeat

    Following Sunday’s “cruel” World Cup final loss to Argentina, Didier Deschamps praised the crowd as France landed back in Paris.

    After a thrilling 3-3 draw, Argentina defeated Les Bleus 4-2 on penalties, ending their hopes of being the first team to defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.

    Despite Aurelien Tchoumeni and Kingsley Coman missing their attempts in the shootout, which resulted in a sad loss for Didier Deschamps’ team, Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick helped France come back from 2-0 and then 3-2 deficits.

    Nevertheless, after such a heartbreaking defeat, the team was welcomed by a sizable audience when they arrived back in Paris on Monday. Deschamps acknowledged his gratitude for the encouragement.

    “It is our duty with the players to thank all these French men and women who supported us and gave a lot of strength to this France group,” he told TF1. “We shared fabulous emotions even if the ending is cruel and hurts.

    “We must not forget all that this group did while having a lot of difficulties before and during the World Cup. They experienced fabulous emotions during this month of competition.”

    Captain Hugo Lloris echoed his head coach’s sentiments after missing out on becoming the first man to skipper his team to two World Cup trophies.

    “After the pain of yesterday, [the reception is] a little comfort,” Lloris said. “The most important thing is the recognition of the supporters, even if as an athlete we would have liked to have this gold medal and bring the cup back to France.”

    France now turn their attentions to the 2024 European Championship in Germany, where they will be looking to win the tournament for a third time.

    Lloris compelled his team to carry their strong mentality from Qatar into their next competition, adding: “Despite what happened before and during the tournament, we showed resilience, we remained a group. We have to keep that going for the Euros.”

    Striker Olivier Giroud, who surpassed Thierry Henry as France’s all-time record goalscorer in Qatar, added: “We’re going to give each other a big hug and go on vacation to recharge our batteries, because there is a season to finish.

    “It is always difficult to leave a group with which we spent a month and a half. We are like a family, like brothers.”

  • The unbelievable welcome of Messi, others in Argentina

    Social media users have been left aghast after a picture of Argentina celebrating their World Cup victory emerged on Twitter.

    A first glance at the image does not portray what it actually is. For some, it is an art work and for others, something they just can’t decipher.

    It is actually an image of Argentines – a mammoth crowd of Argentines.

    It is unknown the number of people gathered in Buenos Aires, but it could be close to a million or half a million. They gathered to welcome they heroes.

    Argentina beat France by four goals to two in a penalty shootout on Sunday. It is Messi’s first-ever World Cup glory.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

     

     

  • Why Canadian rapper Drake predicted Argentina victory but lost US$1m bet

    Canadian rap star Drake predicted Argentina’s hard-won victory at the FIFA World Cup finale yesterday, Sunday, December 18, 2022, but still lost his $1 million bet.

    Drake had bet in the 1×2 market, which meant he was confident Lionel Messi and his side’s victory would come within the 90 minute period of the showdown.

    The lacklustre game, with Argentina completely dominating France with possession and a 2-0 scoreline, suddenly turned into a nail-biting clash some minutes into the second half.

    By end of 90 minutes and 8 minutes added time, the French star Kylian Mbappe had found the net three times, twice by a penalty, bringing the scoreline to 3-3.

    This signalled that the ‘God’s Plan’ hitmaker had lost on his bet.

    With France finding their rhythm and confidence heading into 30 minutes of extra time, it seemed the South Americans were on their way to becoming the latest victims of the Canadian rapper’s curse; almost always, when Drake, alias Drizzy, supports or bets on a sports figure, he or she loses their game.

    After a demanding 30 minutes extra time, with Rodrigo De Paul crying on the bench, the Qatar 2022 climax came to penalities.

    Argentina edged out France during the shootout, 4-2, to lift the World Cup.

    Gonzalo Montiel scored the winning penalty for Argentina.

    Had Drake’s Sunday morning bet and prediction proven accurate, he would have won $2.75 million.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • People roasted Salt Bae for bothering Lionel Messi to get a photo at the World Cup

    Argentina fans are not happy with Salt Bae.

    The celebrity chef (real name Nusret Gökçe) posted on his Instagram several videos and photos of himself with the team who won the 2022 World Cup against France. However, what was not shown was how he got his content.

    For one photo in particular with superstar Lionel Messi, a clip posted online shows Salt Bae pestering Messi and grabbing his arm. At first, Messi tries to ignore him, but Salt Bae was relentless. Messi finally gave in and took a photo with Salt Bae.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Nusr_et#Saltbae (@nusr_et)

    Salt Bae also broke FIFA etiquette by handling the World Cup trophy, which is against the rules.

    Needless to say, people were upset about Salt Bae chasing clout and creating a cringey moment for himself.

    Here are some of the best reactions below. Salt Bae should just appreciate that he witnessed the best World Cup match in recent history that was adrenaline-pumping and fun.

    Source: Complex.com

  • Drake loses $1 million on World Cup final although he predicted Argentina to win

    Rapper Drake who is a huge fan of betting could not cash out despite predicting Argentina to win the World Cup final, Drake lost a $1 million wager.

    The Toronto rapper placed his bet in the 1×2 market, which doesn’t take into account extra time, as can be seen in the screenshot below, which he posted on his Instagram on Saturday night.

    In the build-up to the game, the commercially successful rapper placed an astounding $1 million for Argentina to win the World Cup.

    He stood a chance of making a ton of money if Messi and co defeated defending champions France to the title which eventually happened as Messi guided Argentina to their first World Cup victory since 1986, although it came only after a 4-2 penalty shootout.

    Kylian Mbappé of France scored a penalty kick in overtime to square the score at 3-3. Simalrly, Drake won $1.4 million in February after investing $1.26 million over three bets on the Los Angeles Rams to defeat the Cincinnati Bengals in the Super Bowl.

    Furthermore, he bet $600,000 on Barcelona winning the El Clasico and on Arsenal defeating Leeds United in the Premier League in October. He was not let down by the Gunners, but the Catalan giants were defeated 3-1 by their opponents.

     

  • Bayern Munich rebuke racist abuse of Coman after World Cup final

    Bayern Munich has denounced the racist taunts directed at Kingsley Coman following France’s World Cup final loss to Argentina on penalties.

    Coman had an impact after coming on as a 71st-minute replacement with France trailing 2-0 on Sunday. Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick helped Les Bleus force the decisive penalty kicks at the conclusion of a thrilling 3-3 draw.

    The winger, though, was the first shooter to miss in the shoot-out when Emiliano Martinez made a good stop to his right, and midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni missed the following attempt for France.

    Following France’s 4-2 shootout loss, Coman received racist comments on social media, which prompted his club to denounce those responsible.

    A statement issued via the Bundesliga champions’ Twitter account read: “FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman.

    “The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society.”

    On the eve of the World Cup, the French Football Federation condemned racist messages addressed to midfielder Eduardo Camavinga following suggestions he was responsible for an injury suffered by Christopher Nkunku in training.


  • Messi’s World Cup triumph not enough for him to overtake Maradona – Zanetti

    According to Javier Zanetti, Lionel Messi’s World Cup victory is insufficient for him to surpass Diego Maradona as Argentina’s best player.

    On Sunday, following a dramatic match against France at Lusail Stadium, Messi won the World Cup for the first time.

    Before completing his penalty in the shootout, which Argentina won 4-2, the 35-year-old scored twice in a dramatic 3-3 tie.

    Argentina’s third World Cup was particularly poignant because it was the country’s first since the passing of Diego Maradona, who is famous for leading his country to victory in the 1986 competition. Maradona passed away in November 2020.

    While Messi’s performances in Qatar have cemented his place as the best player in history in the eyes of many, Zanetti feels he is still yet to outdo Maradona as Argentina’s greatest of all time.

    Zanetti told Stats Perform: “No, not for me. I don’t like [the] comparison.

    “We have to be grateful that the two greatest [players] in history are Argentines.

    “I don’t think [Messi] has changed. I think he is more mature now and he was able to transmit his leadership to the rest of the group this time.”

    France twice brought Argentina back, first forcing them to give up a 2-0 lead when Kylian Mbappe scored twice, and then in extra time after Messi had given Lionel Scaloni’s team the lead once more.

    The biggest gap between nations winning World Cups is 36 years, and Argentina’s 36-year wait to do so is the longest of any country. Zanetti thinks the dramatic circumstances of their victory made the victory even sweeter.

    “It’s a great emotion that the lads gave us because we have been waiting for it for a long time,” Zanetti added.

    “I think they made it happen, the dream of millions of Argentinian fans around the world.

    “It was a great final for us Argentines because it seemed it was all going in our way but then France had a great reaction.”

    Andres Iniesta, Messi’s former team-mate at Barcelona, was delighted the now Paris Saint-Germain forward finally got to lift the World Cup.

    “Yesterday’s final was something spectacular, and that he [Messi] had the opportunity now to lift the World Cup is inexplicable,” Iniesta told reporters while visiting Barcelona’s training ground.

    “Leo has done everything possible to achieve it. He has had a spectacular World Cup and the icing on the cake was incredible.

    “I’m sure he feels maximum happiness.”

  • Transfer Talk: Where Messi may be heading next after World Cup triumph

    As one of the all-time greatest footballers, Lionel Messi’s future at his current club is now expected to be a hot subject.

    The legendary No. 10 led Argentina to their first World Cup victory in 36 years in Qatar. Argentina defeated France on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 extra-time draw.

    Clubs from all over the world are swarming to become the 35-year-potential old’s ultimate destination when his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires next summer.

    We consider the potential future moves for the illustrious playmaker.

    MLS move

    A switch to Major League Soccer seems the most likely possibility at this point, with reports last month even suggesting a deal to join David Beckham’s Inter Miami has already been agreed.

    Messi’s camp were keen to distance themselves from those claims at the time with focus firmly on his exploits in Qatar.

    But with his aspirations now achieved, rumours of a switch to the Sunshine State will surely re-emerge.

    Messi has proven he can still dazzle at the very top level after scoring seven World Cup goals and providing three assists this winter — a showing which earned him the tournament’s Golden Ball award.

    It therefore remains to be seen whether he is ready to move to a league which, for all its development in recent years, would undoubtedly be a step down in the quality the magician is used to.

    Remain in Paris

    Lionel Messi has formed an impressive partnership with fellow World Cup finalist Kylian Mbappe at Paris Saint-Germain
    Lionel Messi has formed an impressive partnership with fellow World Cup finalist Kylian Mbappe at Paris Saint-Germain

    PSG remain hopeful they can extend the two-year deal Messi signed in the summer of 2021 following his departure from Barcelona.

    Club president Nasser Al Khelaifi said: “No decision will be made on Leo Messi’s contract before the new year. We are very happy and Leo’s very happy with us too.

    “We will find the best solution together with Messi, we’re so happy and this is fantastic.”

    His first season in the French capital — his first away from Barca for 21 years — was somewhat underwhelming as he seemingly struggled to settle in his new surroundings.

    But he was back to the very top of his game prior to the World Cup break, managing an incredible 25 goal involvements in 18 games in all competitions for Les Parisiens.

    If he can continue that kind of form upon his return, there seems plenty of motivation to continue lighting up the Parc des Princes alongside Kylian Mbappe and Co.

    Barcelona return

    Lionel Messi was in sensational form for Paris Saint-Germain before the World Cup break
    Lionel Messi was in sensational form for Paris Saint-Germain before the World Cup break

    Despite leaving the Camp Nou in somewhat acrimonious circumstances 14 months ago, Barcelona still seem intent on sealing the return of their club legend.

    Crippling financial problems forced Messi to emotionally end his long-term association with the Blaugrana but he is still held in the highest regard in Catalonia by clubs chiefs and supporters alike.

    President Joan Laporta has rarely stopped talking up a potential return for the superstar since his departure.

    In October, he said: “Leo knows that at Barca he always has his home.”

    With former team-mate Xavi at the helm, a return to the club he won countless domestic and European titles with could well remain a tempting prospect for Messi.

    A move back home

    Boyhood club Newell's Old Boys remain close to Lionel Messi's heart
    Boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys remain close to Lionel Messi’s heart

    Where better a place to spend the twilight of an extraordinary career than the place where it all started?

    The Rosario native spent five years at local side Newell’s Old Boys before joining Barcelona as a 13-year-old in 2000 and an eventual move back to his boyhood club has always seemed a strong possibility.

    Former Old Boys player Fabian Costello, who hails from the same neighbourhood as Messi, believes it would be the perfect way to sign off in the game.

    He said: “Everybody says now that Messi is going to go back to Newell’s Old Boys. It’s a rumour. It would be so special in many ways.

    “This [the World Cup win] is his greatest achievement, but the rumour is they want to make all his dreams come true, and his dream was to play for Newell’s Old Boys.”

    Given his proven longevity in the game, a final swansong there remains a possibility even if it does not come to fruition next summer.

    Source: Livescore

  • Deschamps set for France future talks this week 

    Following France’s loss to Argentina in the World Cup final, Didier Deschamps is scheduled to hold the first round of negotiations on his future as the team’s coach this week.

    Although Deschamps’ contract is up, it is widely anticipated that a new one will be offered if he wants to continue and pursue success at Euro 2024.

    It will take some time for the sadness of failing to win the World Cup a second time, four years after triumphing in Russia 2018, to sink in.

    Deschamps’ future was therefore not a topic for discussion on Monday as the team traveled back to Paris.

    However, French Football Federation (FFF) president Noel Le Graet does not want to waste any time, and he is seeking clarity so has promised to call Deschamps by Wednesday at the latest.

    Le Graet told French broadcaster BFMTV on Monday: “I will call him tomorrow or the day after tomorrow when he has recovered, too. We will see each other as soon as possible, of course.”

    Speaking in the aftermath of the final, Deschamps said on Sunday night in Qatar that a decision about his future was one for early in the new year.

    Former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has long been linked as the likely next national team coach, but he may have to wait a while longer if Deschamps decides he still has the hunger required for the job.

    Former midfielder Deschamps has completed a decade in charge of Les Bleus, and said on Sunday when asked about his future with the team: “You’re not the first to ask. Even if we had won, I would not be able to answer that tonight.

    “Of course, I am very sad for the players and staff, but I’ll have a meeting with the [FFF] president at the start of next year and then you’ll find out.”

    France were beaten 4-2 on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Argentina, with Kylian Mbappe hitting two penalties in a rare World Cup final hat-trick but still ending on the losing side.

    French president Emmanuel Macron told RMC Sport on Sunday he had encouraged the 54-year-old Deschamps to remain in post, saying: “Of course, I asked Didier Deschamps to continue, I want him to continue!”

  • Brighton relaxed amidst high demand for Mac Allister after Argentina heroics

    Paul Barber, the chief executive of Brighton and Hove Albion, is sure that his team can hold onto Alexis Mac Allister despite the midfielder’s high demand following his significant contribution to Argentina’s World Cup victory.

    Mac Allister started six of Argentina’s seven games in Qatar, including Sunday’s exciting 3-3 extra-time penalty shootout victory over France at Lusail Stadium.

    The 23-year-old, who had already started the scoring in his country’s crucial final group match against Poland, assisted Angel Di Maria’s shot at the conclusion of an excellent team play that gave Argentina a two-goal lead in the first half.

    “We were working on a new contract for Alexis in the build-up to the World Cup,” Barber told talkSPORT. “We met Alexis’ father [Carlos] several times. He himself played for Argentina with [Diego] Maradona no less, so there’s a fantastic family history to playing for their country.

    “As we’ve always said, when players do well, when their profile increases, there’s always going to be interest in them. This will be no different; Alexis is no different. There was interest in him before the World Cup and I’m sure there will be more interest in him afterwards.

    “All we can do in situations where you’ve got a great asset is to try and protect yourself as best as possible. We’ve done that with several of our players and staff over the last several years, and that’s all you can do in these situations. We hope Alexis will continue to be playing for us for some time to come.”

    Mac Allister is due to fly back to Argentina with the rest of his team-mates to celebrate their first World Cup success in 36 years, something Barber says he has no issue with despite a packed fixture list coming up.

    “We would be a very poor club [to deny him the chance to return to Argentina],” Barber told BBC Sport. “On the other hand, we’ve got games coming up thick and fast and one of the downsides of the Qatar World Cup is that we haven’t yet even completed half a season.

    “We’ve actually got a lot of work to do now and Alexis will be a big part of that. We’re all looking forward to it very much.”

  • Benzema retires from international football after France’s World Cup heartbreak

    Following his injury-related absence from France’s World Cup run, Karim Benzema has announced his retirement from international play.

    On his 35th birthday, the Ballon d’Or-winning Real Madrid striker revealed that he would retire with France.

    He wrote on Twitter: “I made the efforts and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it!

    “I have written my story and ours is ending.”

    On the day of the competition, Benzema’s participation in the Qatar 2022 finals was ruled out due to a thigh injury he sustained during a France training session.

    Benzema made his international debut in March 2007 against Austria and went on to score 37 goals in 97 games for France. However, Benzema’s international career was characterized by a protracted absence.

    The former Lyon frontman, who was out of favor at the time due to an ongoing blackmail probe, notable missed the World Cup victory in Russia 2018.

    He was hoped to contribute significantly to the trophy defense this time, but Benzema had been bothered by a niggle in the months prior to the competition, which did not bode well.

    He was battling to prove his fitness but suffered an apparent injury recurrence during his first full training session with Didier Deschamps’ squad.

    Benzema underwent an MRI at a Doha hospital and it was decided he faced three weeks of recovery, leading to him leaving the France squad and not returning.

    Deschamps said at the time: “I’m extremely sorry for Karim who had made this World Cup a major objective.”

    One day after suffering a shocking final defeat to Argentina, losing 4-2 on penalties following a 3-3 game, Benzema made his declaration as France was leaving Qatar for home.

    For a France team that came agonizingly close to becoming the first team to win back-to-back World Cup crowns since Brazil 60 years ago, Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud proved to be a productive front pairing, so Karim Benzema’s absence scarcely registered.

    In response to rumors that he might rejoin the France team two days before the championship game, Benzema wrote a mysterious comment on Instagram that simply said, “That doesn’t interest me.”

    He has returned to training with Madrid ahead of the resumption of their season, and may have been fit to play a part in the final, having not been formally removed from France’s squad list.

    Asked if Benzema could make a shock return for the final, however, Deschamps said: “I don’t want to answer you. It’s a stupid question.”

    Now there will be no return in the future either, Benzema signing off from France duty three short of a century of international caps.

  • Messi says he will not retire from Argentinian national team

    Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi has quashed speculation and pledged to continue playing for his country, despite realising his lifetime ambition of winning the sport’s biggest prize.

    “I want to keep experiencing a few more matches as world champion,” the 35-year-old told Argentinian television following an epic penalty shoot-out victory over France in the World Cup final in Qatar on Sunday.

    “I was lucky to clinch every title in my career, this was the only one missing,” Messi said. “I want to take this one there [to Argentina] and enjoy it with everybody else.”

    Messi opened the scoring for Argentina with a 23rd-minute penalty and also found the net in extra-time for the 3-2 in the 108th.

    France’s 23-year-old superstar Kylian Mbappe completed his hat-trick to take the game to a shoot-out, in which he and Messi also scored.

    Messi, now indisputably one of the greatest players the game has ever seen, had said the tournament in Qatar would be his last World Cup.

    Source: Aljazeera.com

  • Not the time for France retirement talk – Lloris

    Following France’s loss to Argentina in the World Cup final, Hugo Lloris claims that it is “not the time” to talk about his future in the international arena.

    Argentina ultimately prevailed in a six-goal thriller, as the all-time leading appearance holder for the Les Bleus was unable to save any of the penalties he was presented with in the shootout.

    It has been questioned whether Lloris, who is now 35 and has been a member of France’s national team for 14 years and has been as captain since 2010, will remain among Didier Deschamps’ players.

    However, the captain batted away those queries and believes the result will take time to digest, telling TF1: “Now is not the time to answer those questions.

    “It’s a painful night for all the players, the staff, the management and all the supporters, even if we achieved great things.

    “It has to be an experiment for the future. It will take a little time for everyone to digest it.”

    Lloris also expressed his belief that the France squad did everything they could to emerge as victors, highlighting the response after the break following what was a poor first-half display.

    “We were too reactive. It was almost a boxing match, we surrendered blow for blow. The only regret we can have is that we may have missed our first half,” he added.

    “Despite that, we didn’t give up, we believed in it until the end. It took a winner, it was played on penalties.

    “It’s always cruel to be on the wrong side. But we will have given everything from beginning to end in this competition. We come out empty, it’s been almost a month of competition.

    “In this final, we could have dropped at 0-2 but we continued to believe until the end, we were able to turn the game around. It’s football.

    “We must congratulate the Argentines who made a great tournament, a great final. The match could have swung either way, but we were too reactive.”

  • Deschamps to decide France future in early 2023

    After seeing France’s dramatic World Cup final loss to Argentina on penalties, Didier Deschamps will decide on his future in the new year.

    France twice came from behind in an exciting 3-3 tie after extra time at Lusail Stadium thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick, the second to be scored in a men’s World Cup final.

    However, Lionel Messi, a teammate of Mbappe‘s from Paris Saint-Germain, won the coveted prize after Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni both missed their attempts in the shootout.

    The setback will probably rekindle rumors about Deschamps’ future, with former France great Zinedine Zidane long considered a potential successor.

    Deschamps, however, will take his time to weigh up whether to extend his 10-year stay with the two-time world champions.

    “You’re not first to ask. Even if we had won, I would not be able to answer that tonight,” Deschamps said at his post-match press conference.

    “Of course, I am very sad for the players and staff, but I’ll have a meeting with the [French Football Federation] president at the start of next year and then you’ll find out.”

    After Angel Di Maria was knocked down by Ousmane Dembele’s challenge, Messi scored Argentina’s first goal in the championship, drawing ire from several France players.

    After the game, Deschamps expressed his own displeasure with Szymon Marciniak’s performance as the referee, but he also congratulated Argentina.

    Messi scored Argentina’s opening goal in the final after Angel Di Maria went down under Ousmane Dembele’s challenge, provoking an angry reaction from several France players.

    Deschamps made his own frustration with the performance of referee Szymon Marciniak clear after the game, though he also offered his congratulations to Argentina.

    “I need to be careful what I say. You saw as well as I did. It could have been worse, could have been better,” he said when asked about the officials’ display.

    “There were some decisions that gave rise to discussion but that’s the case in every game. I said before the game that Argentina had been lucky, not that they were helped by decisions.

    “I don’t want to take anything away from them, they fully deserve the title. It’s not because of decisions that they came out victorious, and I just discussed this with the referee.

    “I don’t want to get into what was said, I just want to congratulate Argentina.”

    French president Emmanuel Macron was seen speaking to Deschamps in the aftermath of Sunday’s defeat and he told RMC Sport he had encouraged the 54-year-old to remain in post.

    “Of course, I asked Didier Deschamps to continue, I want him to continue! I told him he had to digest,” Macron said.


  • “The eight wonder”- Ghana winger Christian Atsu delighted after Messi wins World Cup

    Christian Atsu has reacted after Lionel Messi finally laid his hands on the coveted World Cup trophy.

    The seven-time Ballon d’or netted a brace as Argentina defeated France on penalties in the final to win the World Cup for the first time in 36 years.

    Messi’s Paris Saint Germain teammate Kylian Mbappe forced the game into extra time with a sensational hat-trick.

    However, Emi Martinez was the hero for Argentina as he saved two penalties to help the South Americans to victory.

    Atsu, who represented Ghana at the World Cup in Brazil in 2014, shared his excitement after seeing Messi win the trophy.

    “The eight wonder of the world,” he wrote on Twitterwith a lovely photo of Messi.

     

    Messi made his first appearance at the World Cup in Germany, but had to wait till his fifth tournament to win the biggest  prize in football.

    He was crowned player of the tournament in Qatar after scoring seven goals, which was only bettered by Mbappe, who scored eight.

    The 8th wonder of the world #messi pic.twitter.com/KYbEe1eADg

    — Christian Atsu (@ChristianAtsu20) December 18, 2022

  • Cameroon striker, Junior Kaaba to leave Hearts of Oak – Reports

    According to rumours, Cameroonian attacker Junior Kaaba is about to leave Hearts of Oak.

    After putting on a strong performance in the Cameroonian first division, the big forward signed a three-year agreement with the “Phobians” in August of this year.

    However, the 23-year-old has failed to glitter with the head coach of the side, Slavko Matic demanding his release.

     

    Kaaka has featured six times for the Rainbow side and is yet to find the back of the net before the World Cup break.

    Hearts of Oak have however confirmed the release of midfielder William Opoku Asiedu and also Abdul Aziz Nurudeen’s contract extension.

    Slavko Matic and his charges have regrouped as they prepare themselves for the second phase of the 2022/23 GPL season.

  • Deschamps laments ‘physical and psychological impact’ of virus in World Cup final loss

    Didier Deschamps said that a virus in the France team contributed to their dreadful start to the World Cup final on Sunday, but he refrained from attributing full responsibility for Les Bleus’ defeat.

    After a remarkable 3-3 tie at Lusail Stadium, Argentina triumphed in a penalty shootout, preventing France from becoming the first side to defend the World Cup since 1962.

    Before Kylian Mbappe‘s hat-trick enabled France to force extra time and penalties, Deschamps’ side made a slow start, becoming the first team to fail to attempt a shot in the first half of a World Cup final.

    France had been without Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano due to illness in their semi-final win over Morocco four days earlier, and several other players reportedly experienced symptoms in the days preceding the final.

    Asked about the spread of the virus after Sunday’s defeat, Deschamps said it played a role in France’s lethargic start.

     

    “The whole squad has been facing a tricky situation for a while now, maybe that had a physical and psychological impact,” Deschamps said.

    “But I had no concerns about the players who started the match. They were 100 per cent fit, but we only had four days since the last match so perhaps there is some tiredness.

    “That’s not an excuse but we didn’t show the same energy as previous matches and for the first hour we weren’t in the match.

    “In those first 70 minutes or so, we were playing a very aggressive and dynamic opponent and we weren’t at the same level for a number of reasons.

    “We managed to come back from the dead and made a magnificent comeback from a very difficult situation.”

    Deschamps made his frustration with France’s first-half performance clear by becoming the first boss to make two substitutions before half-time in a World Cup match when he withdrew Olivier Giroud and Ousmane Dembele.

    Despite Les Bleus’ failure to clinch the trophy for a third time, Deschamps praised the players he introduced, Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani, for reviving the contest.

    “I went through a lot of different emotions tonight,” Deschamps said. “There are some regrets because we were so close to winning but it wasn’t to be.

    “There were a number of reasons why, we had a very strong opponent and we were lacking a bit of energy from some key players.

    “We had some young inexperienced players who came on and brought some freshness and quality. They got us back in the match to keep the dream alive.”

  • Messi reveals he’ll play on for Argentina after World Cup glory

    After being the catalyst for Argentina’s victory in Qatar, Lionel Messi vowed to continue playing for his country so they could enjoy “a few more games being world champion.”

    After Sunday’s thrilling final, in which Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick for France but still lost, the World Cup now belongs to Messi and Argentina.

    A 4-2 victory on penalties after a 3-3 draw gave Argentina their third World Cup success, after lifting the trophy in 1978 and 1986 and means Messi’s final appearance on the biggest stage of all ended in a fairy tale manner.

    It was the trophy he had been striving to win before the end of his career, and the 35-year-old finished the tournament with seven goals and three assists, becoming the first player to score in every round and the group stage.

    He took the Golden Ball award as the best player but Mbappe pipped him to the Golden Boot with eight goals.


    Messi told TyC Sports: “Obviously I wanted to close my career with this, I can’t ask for anything any more. Thank God, he gave me everything. Closing almost my career like this, it’s impressive.”

    Messi knows his career is winding down and he put in the work to make sure he was in prime shape for one last shot at the World Cup.

    His emotional reaction after the final whistle, kissing the trophy at the first opportunity, reflected how dearly Messi wanted this moment.

    A double in the final meant Messi became the highest-scoring South American player in major international tournaments with 26 goals — 13 in the World Cup as many in the Copa America. That took him one goal ahead of Brazil great Ronaldo, who previously held the record.

    “After this, what will there be? I was able to get the Copa America, World Cup… It came to me almost at the end,” Messi said

    “I enjoy being in the national team, the group, I want to continue living a few more games being world champion.

    “It’s every little kid’s dream, I was lucky to have achieved everything and what I was missing is here.”

  • Messi ‘can’t believe it’ after Argentina end 36-year wait for World Cup glory

    After Argentina ended their lengthy wait to win a third World Cup title with a thrilling victory over France, Lionel Messi expressed his shock.

    In a thrilling six-goal battle, the Paris Saint-Germain attacker scored twice, and Lionel Scaloni’s team prevailed on penalties.

    It brought an end to a 36-year wait for World Cup glory, with Argentina previously suffering defeats at the final hurdle in 1990 and 2014 – the latter of which saw Messi on the losing side.

    After a seven-goal haul and taking home the Golden Ball for the best player of the tournament, Messi finally got his hands on the biggest prize of all and took to social media to share his thoughts.

    “I dreamt about it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still can’t believe it,” he posted on Instagram.

    “Thank you so much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We prove once again that Argentinians when we fight together and united we are able to achieve what we aim.

     

    “The merit is of this group, which is above individuals, is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the one of all Argentinians… We did it!!!”

    Awarded player of the match in the final, Messi was expected to feature in a post-game press conference but skipped attendance as celebrations continued with the squad.

    However, he did speak on the field following Argentina’s triumph and made his desire to continue representing his nation clear.

    “I enjoy being in the national team, the group, I want to continue living a few more games being world champion,” he told TyC Sports.

  • I wish Maradona was here to enjoy World Cup success-Scaloni

    When Lionel Scaloni abruptly realized late Argentina legend Diego Maradona couldn’t celebrate his country’s World Cup victory in Qatar, he was upset.

    On penalties, Scaloni’s team defeated France 4-2 after a remarkable 3-3 stalemate in extra time on Sunday at Lusail Stadium.

    It was Argentina’s first World Cup triumph since Maradona inspired them to glory in 1986, earning Lionel Messi his maiden success in the competition.

    Maradona, who played for his national team between 1977 and 1994, died in November 2020 at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest.

    His death was followed by three days of national mourning, putting into context just how significant a figure he was in Argentina

    .

    And for Scaloni on Sunday, being reminded of Maradona’s passing was difficult.

    Asked what he would say to Maradona if he had been present, Scaloni told reporters: “Well, you make me realise that he’s not here, otherwise you’d think he was amongst us.

    “Well fortunately we managed to lift this trophy, something we’ve been dreaming of for so long, we’re such a football passionate country.

    “I hope he enjoyed it from above. I’m sure if he was here he’d have enjoyed it so much, he’d have been the first one on the pitch.

    “Now you ask me this you make me realise he’s not here. I wish he was here to enjoy this moment.”

  • Football fan hijacks bus full of people to catch World Cup Game

    An Argentinian football fan was recently arrested after allegedly hijacking a bus full of people to make sure he gets home in time to watch his country’s game against Croatia at the World Cup.

    Argentina is one of the few countries on this planet where football is as close to a religion as you can possibly imagine. People live and breathe the beautiful game and stars like  Diego Armando Maradona are worshipped, so when Argentina played Croatia in the semifinals of the 2022 Football World Cup in Qatar the whole country was buzzing. Missing the game was an unimaginable travesty, so when one man found himself on a bus at rush hour, just minutes before the start of the historic football match, he basically felt forced to take desperate measures.

    The incident took place on December 13, in the heart of the Buenos Aires town of Ciudad Santa María. The 53-year-old man was riding a bus on line 440 between Fraga and Avenida Ricardo Balbín when he realized that there was no way he would catch the start of the game at the rate that the bus was moving.

    So when the vehicle stopped at a red light and the driver stepped out to buy something from a nearby kiosk, the man jumped behind the wheel and started driving towards his home. As soon as he saw the bus drive away, the driver called the police to report the hijacking, and multiple police cars were dispatched to its last known location.

    According to Argentinian news sources, the man drove the bus about four miles before abandoning it near his residence and continuing the rest of the way on foot. Unfortunately, the running football fan was caught by police near the intersection of Callao and Maestro Ferreyra streets and taken in for questioning.

    Despite his desperate efforts to catch the start of Argentina’s match against Croatia, the die-hard football fan ended up missing the whole game. He did however take comfort in the fact that his country won 3-0 and qualified for the World Cup Final. He was charged with hijacking a public transportation vehicle and it is unclear if he will be released from jail until Sunday when Argentina faces off against France.

    People sure do some crazy things in the name of football. Just a few days ago, we wrote about a Chinese fan of the beautiful game who ended up with facial paralysis after staying up to watch every game at the World Cup for a week.

    Source: Oddity Central

  • Messi’s Argentina win 2022 World Cup final against France to prove ‘GOAT’ tag

    Lionel Messi has led Argentina to World Cup glory after beating France on penalties on Sunday.

    This proved to be one of the most thrilling climaxes in final history.

    Argentina won 4-2 in the shootout after a spectacular game which developed into the much-anticipated confrontation between the 35-year-old maestro Messi and his France opposite number Kylian Mbappe, who scored a hat-trick – the first in a World Cup final since 1966 – but still ended up on the losing side.

    Messi had given Argentina lead from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute following Ousmane Dembele’s foul on Angel Di Maria. It made him the first player in World Cup history to score in the group stage, last 16, quarter-final, semi-final and final of a single tournament.

    He then contributed a delicate touch within a magnificent counter-attack that ended with Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister setting up Di Maria for the second 13 minutes later.

    Argentina were untroubled until the closing stages, only for Mbappe to give France a lifeline from the penalty spot with nine minutes left – then restore equality with a magnificent volley moments later.

    Messi bundled Argentina back in front in extra time, but Mbappe completed his treble from the spot two minutes from the end of a frantic, chaotic added spell.

    And so it went to penalties, with the two greats opening the scoring. But Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez saved from Kingsley Coman, before Aurelian Tchouameni missed, leaving Gonzalo Montiel to win the World Cup.

    Messi, a World Cup winner at last, collapsed to his knees in the centre circle and was engulfled by jubilant Argentina team-mates.

    More soon….

    Source: BBC

  • France’s World Cup fate in Lloris’ capable hands

    Hugo Lloris will be essential to France’s ambitions of making World Cup history as they are just one victory away.

    He will become the only player to have won the championship twice if Les Bleus overcome Argentina.

    Only two other countries—Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962)—have accomplished the feat.

    We examine how Lloris can help France win the championship as we get ready for the tantalizing final against Argentina.

    Mr Reliable

    A reliable goalkeeper is a key component of any world-class side — and France have been set in this department since Lloris made his debut in 2008.

    He was excellent at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, keeping three clean sheets and only conceding six goals in 540 minutes.

    The 35-year-old has kept up those standards in Qatar, conceding only four times — though he may be disappointed to only have only kept one clean sheet.

    Lloris’ experience — particularly of winning a World Cup final — will be invaluable for France as they seek to repeat the trick.

    Hugo Lloris has been key to France's run to the World Cup final
    Hugo Lloris has been key to France’s run to the World Cup final

    High praise

    Before Lloris earned his record-equalling 142nd cap for Les Bleus in the World Cup last-16 clash against Poland, France manager Didier Deschamps heaped praise on his captain and compared him to the man whose record he was matching — Lilian Thuram.

    He said: “Records are made to be broken.

    “It’s the longevity of two exemplary players, two great professionals who have both kept themselves at a very, very high level.

    “These records mean something. Some are more anecdotal than others, but this one speaks for itself.”

    Stepping up

    Hugo Lloris has conceded four goals at the World Cup so far
    Hugo Lloris has conceded four goals at the World Cup so far

    France had to dig deep in both their quarter-final against England and their semi-final against Morocco — but managed to emerge victorious on both occasions.

    They endured spells where they were forced to defend deep and Lloris was required to make some important saves to keep his side in the game.

    Against England, the captain made an impressive six saves overall — a real sign that he can step up when required for his nation.

    In the final, the stopper will almost certainly be called upon again as Lionel Messi looks to fire Argentina to victory.

    Error free

    Lloris has been a reliable figure for most of his career but in recent seasons the veteran has earned a reputation for making unforced errors.

    Despite an excellent tournament overall four years ago he made an unforgettable blunder in the final which cost his side a goal — thankfully for the Tottenham skipper, it did not impact the result.

    In Qatar, however, the 35-year-old has not made a single error leading to a goal.

    If Lloris can maintain his aura of steady calm for one more game, he could write himself into history as France’s greatest goalkeeper.

    Demands in possession

    Hugo Lloris frequently looks to play the ball long
    Hugo Lloris frequently looks to play the ball long

    The biggest criticism of Lloris’ game is his ability on the ball and his lack of fluidity in possession.

    The France captain has only completed 70 passes at the tournament so far, which works out at just 14 per 90 — low even for a goalkeeper.

    His passing accuracy is also just 56.91%, which can likely be explained by the fact that he primarily sends his kicks long.

    However, Dechamps’ style masks that weakness with France ranking 11th at the World Cup for passes attempted per match (521.17) — Les Bleus’ boss will hope Lloris is not found out on the ball in the final.

    Source: Livescore

  • Messi on song but Alvarez is no backing singer

    Even though Lionel Messi may be the star of the show, Julian Alvarez could be crucial for Argentina as they aim to win the World Cup.

    Although Lionel Scaloni did not start the match with the Manchester City striker, his performances have made him an irreplaceable member of La Albiceleste.

    In the final on Sunday, where Argentina will try to defeat France and win their third championship, his danger in the last third will be crucial.

    In advance of the World Cup match, we examine the factors that have led to the 22-year-old becoming his country’s starting No. 9.

    Too good to ignore

    Lautaro Martinez began the World Cup as Argentina’s first-choice centre forward.

    The Inter Milan marksman has developed a fine relationship with Messi over the last few years and it made sense that he would continue playing that role in Qatar.

    But sub-par performances against Saudi Arabia and Mexico saw Scaloni drop the 25-year-old in favour of Alvarez, who was impressing too much off the bench to be ignored.

    The decision has paid off — the Calchin native has scored four goals in the 364 minutes he has played in Qatar.

    Only the peerless Messi, with five strikes and three assists to his name, has contributed more to the cause.

    Putting Croatia to the sword

    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has been on form at the World Cup
    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has been on form at the World Cup

    Hard-running and intelligent, Alvarez is the perfect foil for Messi in the final third but he exploded in his own right during Argentina’s dominant 3-0 semi-final victory over Croatia.

    The striker won the penalty that Messi converted in the 34th minute to give La Albiceleste the lead and then scored twice himself to put the result beyond doubt.

    Given his previous goals at this World Cup came in must-win games against Poland and Australia, it is safe to say that the former River Plate prodigy has a taste for the big occasion.

    Alvarez has certainly not looked out of place since forcing himself into the side despite having never previously started for La Albiceleste at a major tournament.

    Praised by Messi

    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez often attacks the left side of the box
    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez often attacks the left side of the box

    Considered the greatest footballer of all time by many, Paris Saint-Germain talisman Messi has exacting standards and needs his colleagues to meet them.

    That is what makes the 35-year-old’s comments when asked who aside from him deserved to be named Player of the Match after Argentina’s victory over Croatia so impressive.

    He said: “Every player did very well but if I have to choose, I would give this award to Julian. He had an extraordinary game”.

    A boost for Manchester City

    Alvarez’s excellent form could be a real boon to Manchester City as well as Argentina.

    The Citizens are five points shy of current league leaders Arsenal ahead of the resumption of club football following the break for the World Cup — and a strikeforce of the Argentine and the on-fire Erling Haaland would strike fear into the hearts of many a Premier League defence.

    The Argentine has impressed in his early form for City following his summer move from River but he only has 357 minutes of Premier League football to his name, scoring three goals.

    Playing a key role in an Argentina side that could lift their first World Cup since the days of Diego Maradona could see him figure more prominently under Pep Guardiola.

    World Cup final role

    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has scored four goals at the World Cup
    Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has scored four goals at the World Cup

    Some of the greatest players in history have never played in a World Cup final — but Alvarez will do it at 22.

    And he will play a key role, too. The centre forward’s selfless, hard-running style is the perfect counterbalance to Messi’s more relaxed approach.

    But that does not mean that the City star sacrifices individual contribution in the final third — only Messi and Kylian Mbappe have outscored him in Qatar.

    Nobody has been more accurate with their shooting than the youngster, who has hit the target with seven of his 10 shots (70%).

    If a chance falls Alvarez’s way at Lusail Stadium on Sunday, he will be ready and waiting.

    Source: Livescore

  • Morocco showed they can go ‘toe to toe’ with international football’s elite, Regragui says

    Placing fourth at the World Cup, Morocco proved they can compete with the best teams in world soccer, according to head coach Walid Regragui.

    In the third-place play-off on Saturday, Croatia defeated Morocco 2-1 thanks to goals from Josko Gvardiol and Mislav Orsic, capping Morocco’s remarkable World Cup run.

    They overcame heavyweights like Spain and Portugal before losing to France in the semifinals to become the first country from Africa to make it that far in the world’s premier football competition.

    Regragui thinks that the Atlas Lions proved their claim to be regarded as one of the world’s best footballing nations, despite the fact that Morocco’s campaign ended in defeat.

    “Tomorrow morning we will take stock, and realise we all made a fantastic achievement here,” Regragui told reporters at his post-match news conference.

    “We played Croatia twice, one of the top three teams in the world. We played against Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium and Canada, that’s wonderful.

    “We have an objective of winning the World Cup one day. Morocco showed we can go toe to toe with these teams. We are now one of the top four teams in the world.”

    Asked if he would change anything about Morocco’s tournament, Regragui replied: “Honestly I would say nothing.

    “We had 0.01 per cent chance of winning the tournament at the outset. We managed to get to the last four.

    “We played some of the powerhouses of football. If you told me we’d get this far, number four in the world, I’d have accepted that straight away.

    “We deserve respect. They fought until the end, showed hard graft. That’s football, some nations are stronger than us. France were, Croatia were tonight, but only slightly stronger.

    “For 2026, if I’m still in charge, I’ll have more experience and maybe things will change, and in 2026 we will realise the achievement we’ve made in 2022.”

    Morocco’s final match in Qatar saw a number of controversial officiating decisions, with the final whistle met by intense protests from Regragui’s players towards the referee.

    Achraf Hakimi, Morocco’s star right-back, was reportedly involved in a row with FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the tunnel after the match.

    It comes after the Royal Morocco Football Federation lodged a complaint to FIFA over referee Cesar Ramos’ performance during their semi-final defeat to France.

    However, Regragui was keen not to focus too much on the referee’s display, while he defended his players’ behaviour after the game.

    “When you lose you always get disappointed, upset,” Regragui stated. “My players are great competitors, I don’t think there was a lack of respect.

    “We sometimes overreact at the end of games, it happens. We just weren’t at the level we’ve set.

    “We focus on what we were lacking. We can’t hide behind the refereeing, that’s not the Moroccan way. We let the association deal with any official issues.”

  • 2022 World Cup: A win for Messi or France repeat?

    Can Kylian Mbappe help France win back-to-back titles, or can Lionel Messi lead Argentina to a World Cup victory?

    In the Sunday final at the Lusail Stadium (5:00 GMT), Argentina takes against France.

    Despite having a record seven Ballon d’Or medals, which are given to the world’s finest player, Messi, 35, has never taken home the biggest team trophy in sports.

    “People say France are favourites, but we have the advantage of having the greatest player of all time,” said Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

    “We always like to hear the opponent is the favourite because we don’t feel superior or inferior to anyone.

    “But, as I always say, we have the greatest player of all time. And with a good defence, we have many chances to reach our goal.”

    France manager Didier Deschamps captained his country to World Cup victory in 1998 and then, as boss, guided them to another success in Russia four years ago.

    He said: “I know Argentina, many people around the world, and maybe some French people, hope Lionel Messi could win the World Cup, but we’re going to do everything to achieve our objective.”

    Can Messi help Argentina win World Cup for first time since 1986?

    The final sees the tournament’s top two goalscorers go head-to-head in the race to win the Golden Boot. Both Messi and Mbappe have scored five times in Qatar, while France’s Olivier Giroud and Argentina’s Julian Alvarez are one goal behind on four.

    Messi assisted Argentina in reaching the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil, but the Europeans ultimately prevailed 1-0 in extra time thanks to a goal from Germany’s Mario Gotze.

    However, the star for Paris St. Germain has been the inspiration behind Argentina’s effort in Qatar.

    He scored in the crucial 2-0 victory over Mexico after converting an early penalty in their opening match, which saw his nation suffer a shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia. Argentina won Group C after defeating Poland 2-0. Messi also scored in Argentina’s 2-1 victory over Australia in the round of 16.

    Argentina appeared to be in control of their quarterfinal match against the Netherlands after taking a 2-0 lead after 82 minutes, but Wout Weghorst scored twice for the Dutch, including an equalizer in the 11th minute of injury time to force extra time.

    It eventually went to penalties but Martinez saved two spot-kicks as Argentina advanced, before a goal from Messi and two from Manchester City’s Alvarez gave them a routine 3-0 win over Croatia in the semi-finals.

    Argentina have won the tournament twice, on home soil in 1978 and in Mexico in 1986, and are looking for their third success on Sunday.

    “I’m already getting emotional because they’ve given everything sincerely,” said manager Lionel Scaloni. “Let’s hope we win the title and if it can’t be, they should be proud, because it’s a moment to enjoy.”

    2022 World Cup: Messi World Cup final win or France repeat?

    Sickness bug hampers France’s preparations

    Mbappe, 23, is chasing his second World Cup success and has been instrumental in guiding France to the final. He scored once in their 4-1 win over Australia and twice in the 2-1 victory over Denmark as France reached the last 16 with a game to spare.

    That enabled Deschamps to rest players and, despite losing 1-0 to Tunisia, they won Group D, with Mbappe on target twice more in the 3-1 last-16 triumph over Poland.

    In the quarter-finals they faced Gareth Southgate’s England and took the lead through Aurelien Tchouameni, but Harry Kane equalised with a penalty. Olivier Giroud put France ahead and they won it 2-1 after Kane missed a second spot-kick.

    France beat the tournament’s surprise packages Morocco 2-0 in the semi-final to reach their fourth World Cup final in seven tournaments, having won the competition in 1998 and 2018 and losing in the final in 2006.

    But their preparations have been hampered with a sickness bug.

    Midfielder Adrien Rabiot, defender Dayot Upamecano and winger Kingsley Coman have been among those struggling with illness.

    “We’ve had a few cases of flu-like symptoms,” said Deschamps. “We’re trying to be careful so it doesn’t spread and players have made great efforts out on the pitch and obviously their immune systems suffer.

    “We’re taking all necessary precautions, trying to make sure it doesn’t spread but we have had to take precautions against it.”

    Match facts

    • They have met three times before at the World Cup. Argentina won both group matches in 1930 and 1978, but France were victorious in their only knockout encounter, winning 4-3 in the last 16 in 2018.
    • Argentina are competing in their sixth World Cup final, with only Germany (eight) participating in more. They won in 1978 and 1986 and lost in 1930, 1990 and 2014.
    • They could become the second side in World Cup history to lose their opening game and go on to lift the trophy, emulating Spain in 2010.
    • Messi can become the third Argentine player to win the Golden Boot at the World Cup after Guillermo Stabile in 1930 and Mario Kempes in 1978.
    • France have reached the World Cup final for a fourth time, all since 1998. This is twice as many as any other nation in this period.
    • Les Bleus are looking to become only the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups, after Italy (1934-38) and Brazil (1958-62).

    Source: BBC

  • Orsic strike secures World Cup bronze for Croatia

    As Croatia defeated Morocco 2-1 in the World Cup’s third-place game on Saturday, Luka Modric concluded his World Cup career with the consolation gift of a bronze medal for Qatar 2022.

    Following the disappointment of losing to Argentina in the semi-finals, goals of great marvel from Josko Gvardiol and Mislav Orsic allowed the runners-up from four years ago in Russia to finish this campaign on a high.

    Croatia hopes that their 37-year-old skipper Modric will decide to continue playing and participate in their Euro 2024 campaign, but this was the midfielder for Real Madrid’s final World Cup game.

    Gvardiol gave Croatia a seventh-minute lead at Khalifa International Stadium. Although Achraf Dari swiftly brought Morocco level, Orsic’s brilliant finish just before half-time proved to be the match winner.

    Gvardiol’s goal was a super header into the left corner after Lovro Majer’s free-kick into the penalty area was skilfully nodded towards the penalty spot by Ivan Perisic.

    Morocco were level just 112 seconds minutes later, though, with Dari applying a close-range finish with his head after Hakim Ziyech’s free-kick from the right flank was sent looping up by a heavy touch off Croatia’s Majer.

    Yassine Bounou had almost sliced a pass into his own net early on, but the Morocco goalkeeper was sharp enough to keep out a low strike from Modric. However, he was beaten in the 42nd minute by an exquisite finish from Orsic, who arced the ball over the goalkeeper from just inside the left edge of the penalty area, the shot going in off the far post.

    A deflected Orsic strike from 20 yards rippled the side-netting early in the second half as Croatia searched for a third goal against the team that became Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists.

    Gvardiol later wanted a penalty after going down under a challenge from Sofyan Amrabat, before Morocco had their big chance, with Youssef En-Nesyri denied from close range by Dominik Livakovic. He had another last-gasp opening too for Morocco, but sent a header just over the bar. They were left to settle for fourth, still a huge achievement.

    Source: Livescore

  • Morocco face Croatia in third-place game

    Morocco can be proud they are playing a seventh game at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, even though it is not Sunday’s final, says head coach Walid Regragui.

    Their history-making run saw them become the first African nation to reach the semi-finals, but they were beaten by France on Wednesday.

    On Saturday, they face Croatia in the match to decide who finishes third.

    “We would like things to have gone differently and played in the final,” said Regragui.

    “There is another game to play, we would like to be on the podium.

    “I understand it’s important to finish third rather than fourth, but my takeaway is we didn’t reach the final. We wanted to play the final on Sunday, not play tomorrow.

    “But I told my players this is our seventh World Cup game. If you told any Morocco fan we would be playing our seventh game on 17 December, they would be proud.

    “Morocco played six World Cup games in 20-odd years and now we’ve played six games in a month – this is priceless. It’s as if we played two World Cups or even more, that’s beautiful from an experience point of view.”

    Morocco and 2018 finalists Croatia will both end the tournament as they began it – by facing each other.

    The two nations played out a goalless draw in Group F on 23 November at the Al Bayt Stadium, but Regragui is predicting a better encounter on Saturday.

    “We knew Croatia were going to be one of the best teams in the competition,” he added. “After the first game, we knew the performance was very good.

    “A lot of people said Croatia were approaching the end of their cycle and would have the rug swept out from under their feet. Croatia got stick for not beating ‘underdogs’ Morocco, but both teams reached the semi-finals.

    “There was a lot of hesitation for the first game. Both teams will want to win it and it will be a great game.”

    The game could be Croatia captain Luka Modric’s last with the national team and Regragui praised the 37-year-old Real Madrid midfielder.

    “I don’t know if it’s Modric’s last game, he’s a competitive warrior and will want to finish his World Cup in style. When he wants to finish on a great note, we should be wary,” said Regragui.

    “Hats off to Modric. What he’s doing at 37 is monumental. He was a Ballon d’Or winner and I completely understand why.”

    However, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic believes Modric will continue playing for the national side long enough to feature at the 2024 European Championships.

    “I hope that he will be there,” Dalic said. “I am looking forward to it.

    “It is quite certain that he will there be but he will personally decide how he feels. I personally feel that he will be, but ultimately it is his decision.”

    Dalic says his side are looking to end the tournament on a high in what he sees as a “huge match”.

    “For us, this is a major final, a major match and a fight for a medal,” he added.

    “We have a lot of respect for the Moroccan team, who achieved a lot at this tournament and are a true surprise.

    “They are of the same mindset. It is a huge match for them as well, they are coming with a strong line-up and we are not thinking about what the rivals are saying because we are well aware they are fighting for the same place and, for both, it is a huge match.

    “Morocco resembles us from four years ago, no-one expected them to go so far. They have deserved to be where they are, they have matured and developed and went to a higher level with every game. They have grown into a team that are full of energy and self-motivated.

    “They are definitely the most pleasant and biggest surprise from this World Cup, speaking of teams who could have done better – Spain, Germany, Netherlands, England – Italy did not even qualify. This is a specific World Cup where a third-place play-off is played by two nations who were not favourites.”

    Source: BBC

  • Messi’s World Cup performances show evolution of sport – Wenger

    According to former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, Lionel Messi’s outstanding achievements at the 2022 World Cup “show the evolution of modern sport.”

    At a press conference for FIFA’s Technical Study Group, Wenger and Germany icon Jurgen Klinsmann made the statement.

    Many older players have played prominent roles for their national teams during the tournament in Qatar, with 35-year-old Lionel Messi set to captain Argentina against France in the World Cup final.

    While Olivier Giroud, 35, will likely start for France on Sunday after surpassing Thierry Henry’s record as the Les Bleus’ all-time leading scorer, Luka Modric, 37, shone for Croatia as they advanced to the semi-finals.

    On the other hand, if France defeats Argentina, Kylian Mbappe, 23, may become the youngest player to win two World Cup championships since Pele. Jude Bellingham, 19, was a key role in England’s progress to the quarterfinals.

    Wenger believes that this World Cup is an example of how modern sport is developing and how new technology is enabling athletes to extend their careers.

    “I managed [Arsenal] in 2006 against Barcelona in the Champions League final and Messi was already starting to play,” Wenger said at the press conference.

    “That’s 2006, we are in 2022 – that’s 16 years later and he’s still in contest for being player of the tournament.

    “This tournament shows the evolution of modern sport.

    “This tournament is the tournament of young players who are ready earlier and earlier in top-level sport, and as well the tournament of players who last longer and longer than ever before.

    “We have not experienced World Cups with 35-year-old players being dominant, but we have Giroud, we have Messi, Modric – 37 – dominant players at this tournament.

    “It shows that despite all the negativity about health and welfare of players, the life of a top-level sportsman lasts longer. They are ready earlier and they finish later.”

    Klinsmann thinks there is a great desire in the game for Argentina’s outstanding player to finally win football’s top honor now that Messi may be close to cap his career.

    “Messi – everybody wants him to do well,” Klinsmann stated. “We talked before the tournament about the big superstars who will put their stamp on the tournament and most of them delivered.

    “Most of us are Messi fans no matter what. We want him to win the World Cup and be seen on the same level in his home country as [Diego] Maradona.

    “We all know that for [Cristiano] Ronaldo and Messi it could be the last tournament. They have established themselves on the world stage for the last 15 years.”

    Klinsmann cited Mbappe as the potential heir to Messi and Ronaldo’s throne, adding: “We talk about those big superstars towards the end of their career but also who is the next one taking over.

    “Mbappe has the advantage because of his age.

    “I was amazed about a lot of young players coming through, like [Cody] Gakpo from the Netherlands, or even with Germany going home early, there’s a special kid coming up with [Jamal] Musiala.”

    The World Cup in Qatar has come under intense scrutiny, particularly on the host nation’s treatment of migrant workers and views on same-sex marriages.

    With the end in sight, FIFA president Gianni Infantino labelled it “the best World Cup ever”, with Klinsmann agreeing it had been a great tournament.

    “It’s been wonderful,” Klinsmann declared. “[A] huge success off the field and on the field.

    “We all have many moments with people here, the atmosphere, the stadiums, the organisation itself.

    “Every time you are at a World Cup you think it’s the best. I’ll leave that up to other people. It’s been an unbelievable experience and tomorrow will be an amazing final.”

     

  • France raining on Messi’s parade does not worry Deschamps

    Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, is unfazed by the possibility that Les Bleus may interfere with Lionel Messi’s attempt to win the World Cup on Sunday.

    Messi has already declared that the championship match at Lusail Stadium will be his final appearance at a World Cup.

    In that sense, it is his final chance to win the single major award he has yet to take home, potentially solidifying his title as “best of all time.”

    For many, Messi must win the World Cup in order for his legacy to surpass that of Diego Maradona, the legendary player for the Albiceleste.

    As such, there is undoubtedly huge anticipation surrounding Argentina’s prospects in the final, but Deschamps – whose France side are bidding to become the first European side to retain the World Cup since 1938 – is not worried about the likelihood of it feeling like it is France against the world.

    Asked if he got the feeling France were “alone” in that respect, Deschamps said: “I often get that feeling, but I’m fine being alone, that doesn’t bother me. These uncertainties always arise.

    “We are here, we’ve done all we can to be well-prepared for the game against Argentina.

    “Lionel Scaloni has also had some challenges; they lost their first match to Saudi Arabia, of course, but they are still here.

    “And like us, we haven’t had to face everyone in this tournament, but in the games we’ve played, we’ve managed to come out as victors.

    “I don’t have any particular worries or stresses for [the final]. I think when you prepare for a game like this, you need to keep your focus, remain composed, and with a World Cup final in particular you have the match but also the context around it.

  • France ‘calm and focused’ ahead of World Cup final despite illness, Deschamps says

    Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, claims that despite a sickness outbreak prior to Sunday’s World Cup final, his team is “remaining calm and focused.”

    Due to an illness epidemic among the team, Les Bleus were without Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano for Wednesday’s 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco.

    After Deschamps indicated on Thursday that Kingsley Coman had felt under the weather, the French Football Federation announced on Friday that defense duo Raphael Varane and Ibrahima Konate had missed training due to illness.

    At a press conference the day before the championship match versus Argentina, Deschamps was at ease and acknowledged that he was feeling good.

    “I’m absolutely fine,” he said. “As for the players, I left quite early this morning, they were all still asleep so I have no recent updates.

    “We are trying to manage the situation as well as we can, remaining calm and focused. I’ll get more information today and think about it today and maybe even tomorrow.

    “I don’t want to go into details. I know it’s a subject that’s of interest to you and I fully understand that but we are doing our best to take precautions and adapt as necessary.

    “We are trying to live with it without going too far, getting too carried away, just doing what’s necessary.

    “We’d have preferred not to face this difficulty but we are facing it as best we can with our medical staff.”

    France captain Hugo Lloris also seemed in fine shape when addressing the press, but also did not have any information on the condition of his team-mates.

    “I have not got any more news since last night because everyone was still in their rooms when I got up, I haven’t seen anyone,” he said.

    “I’m sure you’ll get more info by the next training session.

    “We never really prepared for this type of thing, but we will try to get ready for the match the best we can.

    “These are things we weren’t prepared for but we remain focused, and of course we are very excited about playing in a World Cup final.”

  • Xavi celebrates Busquets following Spain retirement

    Following his decision to leave the international game, Sergio Busquets received praise from Xavi, who hailed him as one of the best midfielders in history.

    Busquets, who led La Roja in each of their four games during the World Cup in Qatar, confirmed his retirement from Spain service on Friday.

    Busquets’ blunder in a penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the round of 16 put an unseemly end to his illustrious career with Spain, where he made 143 games as a senior.

    The Blaugrana manager thinks few players can match the effect of the 34-year-old, who played with his Barcelona teammate-turned-coach Xavi when Spain won the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.

    “In the end, it’s a personal decision that you make when you feel the time is right,” Xavi told Barcelona’s website. “I wish him the best, now he will be able to rest more and focus on Barca.

    “He is a player who has made history. He is one of the best midfielders that football has produced worldwide and, for sure, the best defensive midfielder in the history of Spain.”

    Fellow Barcelona star Jordi Alba said Busquets will be “sorely missed” by Spain, who will be led by Luis de la Fuente in Euro 2024 qualifying after Luis Enrique left his role as head coach.

    “You have always been a great leader for all of us who are part of the team, both in good times and in bad,” Alba wrote on Twitter.

    “After so many training sessions and games together in the national team, today you say goodbye and you will be sorely missed, friend.

    “Thank you for what you have contributed to us and for everything you have given.”

     

  • Benzema ‘not interested’ to join France ahead of World Cup final

    Just two days before France’s World Cup final match against Argentina, Karim Benzema sent a mysterious statement on social media claiming he is “not interested.”

    Due to a thigh injury he aggravated in practice, Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema was ruled out of Qatar 2022 on the day of the competition.

    There were rumors that the current Ballon d’Or winner, who had recovered from his injury and resumed training with his club, may rejoin the team.

    However, asked if Benzema could make a shock return ahead of Sunday’s final, France boss Didier Deschamps said: “I don’t want to answer you. It’s a stupid question.”

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Karim Benzema (@karimbenzema)

    Further reports from Spain on Friday claimed Benzema was unhappy to have been sent home in the first place and did not take kindly to Deschamps’ latest comments.

    The 34-year-old has now posted an ambiguous message on social media, simply translated as “I’m not interested”, accompanied by an explosion emoji.

    Former Lyon striker Benzema has scored 37 goals in 97 appearances for France.

    Les Bleus are aiming to become just the third side – and first since Brazil in 1962 – to retain the World Cup trophy after beating Morocco 2-0 in the semi-finals to advance.

     

  • France players struck down by illness bug

    Following the illness of two additional crucial players, Ousmane Dembele says France is “taking precautions” ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final against Argentina.

    Due to a sickness virus in the camp, Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano were absent for Les Blues’ 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco on Wednesday.

    Kingsley Coman, who had a fever the day of the game, and Rabiot were both left off the roster, and Upamecano served as an unused substitute.

    It’s believed that both Upamecano and Rabiot have fully healed in time for this weekend’s championship game at Lusail Stadium.

    Raphael Varane and Ibrahima Konate, two central defenders, reportedly trained separately from the team on Friday after becoming ill, according to numerous sources.

    Two days before the final, Aurelien Tchouameni and Theo Hernandez are rumored to have missed the entire session while they heal from minor ailments.

    Despite potentially losing more players to illness and injury, Dembele insists France are not overly concerned at this stage.

    “It doesn’t worry us,” he said at a news conference on Friday. “With Dayot, after a day I went to see him with my mask on and he was much better.

    “For the players and the staff, it doesn’t worry us, we are just taking precautions.

    “We are not afraid of the virus. Dayot and Adrien had headaches and stomach aches. I made them honey and ginger tea. We hope everyone will be better for the final.”

    France are already without the likes of Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema, Presnel Kimpembe, Lucas Hernandez and Christopher Nkunku through injury.

    Les Blues are aiming to become just the third ever side to retain the trophy, while Argentina are seeking a first world crown in 36 years.

     

  • ‘Messi is an incredible player, but we are not going to let him enjoy the best night’ – Giroud

    France and AC Milan forward, Olivier Giroud has revealed that his side will do everything to prevent Argentina star Lionel Messi from fulfilling his World Cup dream.

    Messi is set to complete the fairytale end of his international football career on Sunday when his side clash with the reigning champions in the showpiece final of the 2022 World Cup in Doha’s Lusail Stadium.

    The Paris Saint-Germain forward finished as a runner-up in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and was left heartbroken following their 1-0 defeat to Germany in Rio.

    The footballing icon is now eager to clinch the world trophy that has eluded him – after revealing this will be his last World Cup.

    However, French striker Olivier Giroud has cautioned the Argentine forward that his side has no intention of giving up their crown – saying “we will try everything to stop him”.

    The former Chelsea and Arsenal hitman said, “Messi is an incredible player, but we are not going to let him enjoy the best night he can have.

    “We want to win this game. We want to win another World Cup – and we will try everything to stop him.

    “But there is not only Messi in that team. They have got great players who work for the team also. I think that is why they are so strong”, he said.

    Giroud, who during the tournament has become France’s all-time leading goal scorer, was part of the side that defeated Argentina 4-3 during the 2018 World Cup in Russia to dump Messi out of the tournament in the last 16 stage before claiming the trophy.

    During that match, Chelsea’s midfielder N’Golo Kante man-marked Messi – but with him missing out on the Qatar World Cup through injury, Giroud has, however, hinted his side could do same again in Sunday’s final.

    “I don’t know if we need a special plan. I remember back in the days of 2018, N’Golo was all the game on his back, behind him. But this time I don’t know what will be the plan. We will see with the manager.”

    France full-back, Theo Hernandez also echoed Giroud’s sentiments and insisted that their side [France] does not fear Messi who is desperate to win a World Cup trophy.

    The AC Milan left-back broke the deadlock in Wednesday night’s semi-final triumph over Morocco.

    “Lionel Messi does not scare us, and we will do everything we can to stop him.

    “I am tired but it’s so good to win a World Cup semi-final,” Hernandez told Gazzetta dello Sport. Now we must recover for Sunday. We are not scared of Messi, but Argentina are an incredible team and we have a few days to work,” he said.

    Source: myjoyonline.com

  • Pochettino rubbishes debate over Messi’s lack of defensive work

    Lionel Messi’s previous coach at Paris Saint-Germain, Mauricio Pochettino, called the debate over his defensive play “almost stupid.”

    In their sixth World Cup final, Argentina will face France on Sunday in an effort to win the trophy for the first time since 1986. Messi’s team will be competing in the match.

    With his 26th and likely final game remaining in the World Cup, Messi will break the record for most appearances in the tournament. He also has a chance to become the first player to score 20 goals during the tournament (currently 11 goals, eight assists).

    The captain of Argentina struggled early on in the competition, and several onlookers criticized his work ethic; nonetheless, he has excelled in the knockout round.

    Former Albiceleste player Pochettino, who guided Messi at PSG until he was fired earlier this year, laughed off any worries and contrasted Messi with two other legendary players who weren’t known for their defensive prowess.

    “Honestly, I think the debate about Messi’s defensive work is so stale, almost silly,” he wrote in The Athletic.

    “You cannot pretend that [Diego] Maradona or Pele — along with Messi, the most important players in football — were focused on trying to win the ball back. He can’t participate in that. He just needs the others to run for him.

    “He doesn’t need to press. When you have Messi, you need the other players to understand that they have to get the ball and give it to him so he can conserve his energy and then be decisive, as shown.”

    Argentina’s run to the final has not been all about Messi, though, with Lionel Scaloni’s side proving resolute in defence.

    They have restricted their opponents to just 5.7 shots per game – fewer than any other side. Indeed, they have not faced above 0.6 expected goals against in any of their six games so far.

    Pochettino believes that defensive solidity and work ethic has been crucial in allowing Messi to flourish.

    “Of course, Argentina need Messi, but Messi needs the other 10 players to fight for him at all times,” he added. “That’s one of the keys to this team: they all believe that playing for Messi, they can win the World Cup.

    “You can see that the players give 120 per cent to achieve this. Different players: [Rodrigo] De Paul, [Alexis] Mac Allister, [Enzo] Fernandez, [Julian] Alvarez, they give everything they have and more, and they do it for Messi.

    “They give everything because it’s their dream, they are so close, and when they have Messi, they know that everything is possible.

    “That’s the most important thing about this Argentina team, and the reason why they are in the final. It’s because the players fully understand their role. When you have Messi in your team, you have to run for him.

    “And when you have the ball, you have to give it to him as soon as possible so that he can create something. So, the players know what they have to do at all times: to give Messi everything he needs to be decisive.”

  • Schmidt believes World Cup stars will stay

    Enzo Fernandez and Goncalo Ramos are two World Cup stars who Benfica manager Roger Schmidt is not concerned about losing.

    The youthful players, both 21 years old, and seasoned defender Nicolas Otamendi are crucial to head coach Schmidt’s ambitions for victory in Lisbon, he stated.

    The Argentina team is getting ready for Sunday’s World Cup final against France, in which both Fernandez and Otamendi may start.

    Because of this, midfielder Fernandez has been associated with a number of teams, including Liverpool.

    Benfica sold striker Darwin Nunez to the Reds in the last transfer window, and Schmidt is determined to retain the best of the talent that has remained at the club.

    “We are very happy for them and they are happy to play at Benfica. We need players like them,” Schmidt told a press conference on Friday, according to O Jogo.

    “We are not afraid that they will leave. We will not give anyone away; we need them to be champions.”

    In Schmidt’s first season as manager, Benfica are atop the Primeira Liga standings after winning 12 of their first 13 games.

    When asked about his Argentine teammates, Schmidt said he was “happy for them” to be playing in the World Cup final while Portugal’s domestic competitions start.

    On Saturday, Ramos of Portugal could play in Benfica’s Taca da Liga round-robin match against Moreirense.

    He established his reputation by scoring a hat-trick in Portugal’s 6-1 victory against Switzerland in the World Cup’s round of 16. He replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the lineup.

    Looking at the finals in Qatar, Schmidt said: “Otamendi has played at a fantastic level. I think Goncalo and Enzo have been playing very well throughout the season.

    “Enzo took advantage of opportunities with Argentina, he didn’t begin in the starting line-up. Goncalo Ramos too, with Portugal, scored three goals. It shows that they have a lot of confidence.”

    German coach Schmidt also acknowledged he will be siding with Argentina in the final, out of duty to his players.

    “I have all the respect for France, but there are two of our players in Argentina, of course I’ll support them,” he said. “To be honest, I’m also a [Lionel] Messi fan, he continues to be the best in the world for me and he’s shown it.”

     

  • Infantino reveals new 32-team Club World Cup

    Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, said that the organization is moving on with plans for a 32-team Club World Cup, while the structure of the following World Cup would be reviewed.

    For the first time since his extraordinary news conference at the commencement of Qatar 2022, Infantino spoke to the media in Doha on Friday.

    On this occasion, he decided against a 45-minute opening speech and instead used the chance to give an update following a FIFA Council meeting earlier in the day.

    Plans to move forward with a previously suggested expansion to the Club World Cup were authorized at that meeting.

    Currently, the competition puts the champions of the major continental club competitions against one another every year. The new competition, which will take place every four years, will involve 32 teams from around the world.

    “It will be a Club World Cup of 32 teams, every four years, and the first edition will be summer of 2025,” he said. “They will be the best teams in the world invited to participate.”

    “I have to say, after this World Cup and the success of groups of four and looking at other competitions such as the Euros, here [four-team groups] have been incredible,” he added

    “I think we have to revisit or at least re-discuss the format. This is something that will certainly be on the agenda.”

    Speaking two days before Qatar 2022’s final, Infantino summarised the tournament as a success in every way, in his opinion, praising the behaviour of supporters.

    “The World Cup has been an incredible success on all fronts,” said Infantino.

    “The main one being the fans, the behaviour, the joyful atmosphere, the bringing of people together. The fans meeting the Arab world, it has been very important for the future of all of us.

    “When it comes to the matches, we have seen some incredibly competitive games, some surprises, some great goals.

    “At the end of the day, there was on average 10 minutes played as additional time every match. This was a very fair World Cup on the pitch, no simulations, not so many yellow and red cards.

    “But this shows the compliment goes to the players and coaches, who maintained their calm, and of course the referees.”

  • Fernando Santos quits Portugal after World Cup exit

    Fernando Santos has resigned as Portugal’s manager after the team’s shocking 1-0 quarterfinal World Cup loss to Morocco.

    The 68-year-old oversaw Portugal for eight years, winning the 2016 Euro Championship and the 2019 Uefa Nations League with the team.

    However, his decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo for the Qatar 2022 semifinal matches dominated his final games.

    Ronaldo’s harsh response to being replaced during the last group match against South Korea led Santos to decide to bench the 37-year-old prior to the last-16 encounter with Switzerland.

    Goncalo Ramos, Ronaldo’s replacement, scored a hat-trick as Portugal defeated Switzerland 6-1, but they were shocked when Morocco became the first African country to advance to the World Cup semifinals.

    The Portuguese Football Association (FPF) said: “The FPF thanks Fernando Santos and his technical team for the services provided over eight unique years and believes that this thanks is also made on behalf of the Portuguese people.

    “The FPF Board will now start the process of choosing the next national coach.”

  • Messi is on a par with Maradona ahead of World Cup final, Zanetti claims

    According to Javier Zanetti, a former Argentina player, Lionel Messi is on par with Diego Maradona and deserving of winning the World Cup for the first time on Sunday.

    On Sunday at the Lusail Stadium, Argentina will compete in their sixth World Cup final, hoping to keep France from becoming the first team to win the championship back-to-back since Brazil in 1962.

    With his 26th and likely final game remaining in the World Cup, Messi will break the record for most appearances in the tournament. He also has a chance to become the first player to score 20 goals during the tournament (currently 11 goals, eight assists).

    The talismanic performances of the Argentina skipper in Qatar have been compared to Maradona’s during the Albiceleste’s victory in 1986, and Zanetti cannot distinguish between the two legends.

    “Messi is a great player, I think he’s on a par with Diego,” he told reporters in Doha on Thursday.

    “I think a lot of people want Messi to win because of what he represents in the world and because of the way he interprets football.

    “Leo deserves it and the boys are making a great effort to get to that moment. He is the strongest player in the world and he makes a difference on the field.”

    However, the Inter great is not taking victory for granted, adding: “I hope that Argentina can bring the World Cup to our country.

    “I’m worried about [Kylian] Mbappe, [Antoine] Griezmann, [Olivier] Giroud, if [Adrien] Rabiot plays he is a quality player, and they have a great goalkeeper.

    “It’s a group that has been working for a long time with this coach. It’s a very complete team, very organised. But it’s a final and anything can happen.”

    In the meantime, fellow former Argentina international Diego Milito praised Messi’s performances and stated both teams deserved to be in the championship game.

    “We know him, we know what he is capable of, that he is the best player in the world,” Milito said of Messi. “He is having an extraordinary World Cup and he deserves it.

    “The best two teams reached the final. It’s a very difficult match but we are confident in the team.

    “We are happy to be able to be in the final. Hopefully this Sunday will be a good final and we can achieve what we have been looking forward to for a long time.

    “This team has given much joy to the people, they have come on a path from the [2021] Copa America, and must be very happy and excited.”

     

  • World Cup final to be officiated by Marciniak

    Szymon Marciniak will officiate Sunday’s World Cup final between France and Argentina, according to FIFA.

    Marciniak has already presided over matches involving both of the winners in Qatar; he oversaw France’s 2-1 victory over Denmark in the group stages and Argentina’s 2-1 triumph over Australia in the last 16 matches.

    In his two matches in this year’s tournament, the Polish official, who also officiated matches at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, has only issued five yellow cards. He has not yet issued a single penalty or red card.

    Antonio Mateu Lahoz, who issued 15 yellow cards during Argentina’s victory over the Netherlands in the quarterfinal of the World Cup, is one of the referees who have come under fire for their performances in the knockout rounds.

    Regarding Cesar Ramos’ officiating during Wednesday’s World Cup semifinal loss to France, the Moroccan Football Federation has filed a protest with FIFA.

    The third-place playoff between Croatia and Morocco will be overseen on Saturday by Abdulrahman Al Jassim of Qatar, according to FIFA.

  • ‘Immortal’ status awaits for Croatia-Morocco winner, Kramaric says

    Andrej Kramaric, a forward for Croatia, has rejected the notion that t he third-place matchup on Saturday against Morocco is a meaningless contest.

    He believes the victor will live forever.

    After losing to Argentina and France in their respective semifinal matches, the two teams will square off at Khalifa International Stadium.

    After losing to Les Bleus at Russia 2018, Zlatko Dalic’s team was denied a chance at a second straight final, and Walid Regragui’s team too saw their underdog tale end in defeat in the championship game.

    Despite their disappointment, Kramaric insists that their bronze-medal battle will not be undervalued because the victor secures their position in sporting lore and history.

    “I think if you ask this question to Moroccan players, I don’t think they will look that way,” he said

    “They’re fighting for their lives because if you win a medal at a World Cup you become an immortal hero in your country. That’s the same thing we are going to do.

    “Eight of us from [the tournament in] Russia understand that feeling of winning a medal at the World Cup.

    “We have a lot of players who haven’t experienced that and would love to do that because it’s something that will stay with you for the rest of their life.”

    Croatia – whose prior best performance in a World Cup had been third at France 1998 before Russia – are looking to claim a third tournament medal in their history.

    For Morocco, regardless of their result, they will already go down as the greatest World Cup side in African history, having become the first from the continent to make the semi-finals.

  • Boy run over and killed after France won the World Cup

    In Montpellier, a southern French city, a 14-year-old boy was run over and killed shortly after France defeated Morocco in the World Cup semi-final.

    After the match, according to the authorities, he was hit by a car and later died in the hospital.

    Images shared on social media showed a car covered in a French tricolour, which was later seized by onlookers.

    The driver then accelerated into two teenagers, seemingly in a panic.

    The 14-year-old was struck and suffered a cardiac arrest as the driver turned around and sped away.

    “Immense sadness that a sporting event should end in total tragedy,” said local MP Nathalie Oziol, who expressed her sympathy with the boy’s family.

    The local prefect in the southern Hérault area said the car was later found abandoned not far from the scene of the accident, and police have begun searching for the driver.

    The incident happened in Montpellier’s north-western district of La Paillade, around half an hour after the final whistle in Qatar, where France beat Morocco 2-0.

    Tensions between France and Morocco supporters briefly spilled over in the centre of the city as flares were lit and police responded with tear gas. France has a large Moroccan community of some 1.5 million people.

    Celebrations in cities across France were largely peaceful, although police used tear gas to halt trouble involving far-right youths in the centre of Lyon.

    Ten thousand police were deployed across the country and a reported 167 arrests were reported nationally.

     

     

  • Qatari photographer dies covering FIFA World Cup

    A U.S. soccer journalist died after collapsing during a World Cup match, and days later a second journalist has lost his life while covering the global event.

    The Doha-based Gulf Times reports Khalid al-Misslam, a photojournalist for local sports outlet Al Kass TV, passed away on Saturday.

    “Al-Misslam, a Qatari, died suddenly while covering the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We believe in Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for him, and send our deepest condolences to his family,” the Gulf Times wrote on Twitter.

    The details surrounding al-Misslam’s death are unclear.

    Grant Wahl, an American who’s written for CBS Sports and Sports Illustrated, died in Qatar after collapsing during the Argentina-Netherlands match. Wahl was 48.

    Keir Radnedge, a columnist at World Soccer magazine, told CNN Saturday that Wahl was treated in the stadium “for about 20-25 minutes” before he was transported to a local hospital.

    “This was towards the end of extra time in the match. Suddenly, colleagues up to my left started shouting for medical assistance. Obviously, someone had collapsed. Because the chairs are freestanding, people were able to move the chairs, so it’s possible to create a little bit of space around him,” Radnedge said.

    The U.S. Soccer Federation confirmed the news in a statement on Twitter.

    Source: Complex.com

  • Wife of Wahl reveals journalist died due to burst blood vessel

    According to Grant Wahl’s wife, Dr. Celine Gounder, the American journalist passed away as a result of an undiscovered aortic aneurysm rupturing.

    While covering last Friday’s World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and the Netherlands at Lusail Stadium, the 49-year-old passed out in his chair.

    Wahl was attended to by medical personnel inside the area and brought to a hospital, but when his passing was eventually confirmed, a flood of condolences quickly followed.

    On Monday, after being flown back to New York City, an autopsy determined the reason of his death, with wife Gounder excluding any possibility of foul play.

    “Grant died from the rupture of a slowly growing, undetected ascending aortic aneurysm with hemopericardium,” Gounder posted on her husband’s blog.

    “The chest pressure he experienced shortly before his death may have represented the initial symptoms. No amount of CPR or shocks would have saved him.

    “His death was unrelated to COVID. His death was unrelated to vaccination status. There was nothing nefarious about his death.”

    Wahl, who was best known for his long career with Sports Illustrated, attended a medical clinic at Qatar 2022’s Main Media Centre four days prior to his death after feeling unwell and was diagnosed with bronchitis.

    The much-respected reporter was at the centre of controversy earlier in the World Cup when he sported a rainbow t-shirt in support of LGBT rights as he attempted to attend a match.

    He was initially prevented from entering Ahmad bin Ali Stadium for the United States’ group game against Wales, although he was later allowed inside.

    Wahl’s brother suggested he had been “killed” in the immediate aftermath of his death, but he later said he “regretted” those comments and no longer believed that to be true ahead of Wednesday’s announcement.

    Paying her own respects to her husband, Gounder said: “We will forever cherish the gift of his life; to share his company was our greatest love and source of joy.

    “Grant was an incredibly empathetic, dedicated and loving husband, brother, uncle and son, who was our greatest team-mate and fan.

    “While the world knew Grant as a great journalist, we knew him as a man who approached the world with openness and love.”

     

  • World Cup security guard who fell at Lusail Stadium dead

    A World Cup security guard who had a catastrophic fall during last Friday’s quarterfinal between Argentina and the Netherlands at Lusail Stadium, has passed away.

    John Njau Kibue received immediate care underground and was transported to a local hospital, where he died on Tuesday while receiving intensive care.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the Qatar Supreme Committee announced an investigation will be conducted into the events leading up to Kibue’s murder.

    “We send our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues and friends during this difficult time,” the statement read.

    “Organisers are investigating the circumstances leading to the fall as a matter of urgency and will provide further information pending the outcome of the investigation.

    “We will also ensure that his family receive all outstanding dues and monies owed.”

    Kibue is the second known migrant worker to have died since the tournament began, following the death of a Filipino man in the group stage at a resort used by Saudi Arabia.

    Speaking last week, Qatar 2022 chief executive Nasser Al Khater said “death is a natural part of life” when he was questioned over the passing of the migrant worker.

    The Lusail Stadium is to host Sunday’s final between Argentina and either France or Morocco, who face off in the second semi-final on Wednesday.