5 days ago
Lionel Messi's bodyguard just picked up a new trick from ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion Kade Ruotolo, and he wasted no time putting it to good use.
The meeting happened by chance in Los Angeles, California, where a mutual sponsor event put Kade and his twin brother, reigning ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion Tye Ruotolo, in the same room as Yassine Cheuko, the French-Tunisian security professional who rarely leaves the soccer player's side.
Kade was the one on camera, but Tye was right there for the whole thing.
In the clip, the 23-year-old Tenore athlete breaks down a standing Mir Lock for Cheuko, and the video ends with the bodyguard applying the very same hold on him and forcing a tap.
Ultimately, the welterweight submission grappling king and his twin brother walked away with a positive experience.
#champion #ruotolo #cheuko #twin
The meeting happened by chance in Los Angeles, California, where a mutual sponsor event put Kade and his twin brother, reigning ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion Tye Ruotolo, in the same room as Yassine Cheuko, the French-Tunisian security professional who rarely leaves the soccer player's side.
Kade was the one on camera, but Tye was right there for the whole thing.
In the clip, the 23-year-old Tenore athlete breaks down a standing Mir Lock for Cheuko, and the video ends with the bodyguard applying the very same hold on him and forcing a tap.
Ultimately, the welterweight submission grappling king and his twin brother walked away with a positive experience.
#champion #ruotolo #cheuko #twin
2 months ago
Franco Mastantuono's time at Real Madrid was anything but memorable as he suffered with poor form and fitness and never really got going as many expected him to.
The youngster thus left the club in the summer transfer window, just one season into his Real Madrid stint, and is currently on loan at Fiorentina for one season.
Los Blancos, meanwhile, have brought in Yan Diomande as a record signing to strengthen the left flank – the same position Mastantuono used to play while at the club.
Last night, Mastantuono started Fiorentina's Serie A clash against Venezia which ended a 4-1 win for his side, and it was the young Argentine who played the pioneering role.
Lionel Messi held the record for decades. (Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images)
#real
The youngster thus left the club in the summer transfer window, just one season into his Real Madrid stint, and is currently on loan at Fiorentina for one season.
Los Blancos, meanwhile, have brought in Yan Diomande as a record signing to strengthen the left flank – the same position Mastantuono used to play while at the club.
Last night, Mastantuono started Fiorentina's Serie A clash against Venezia which ended a 4-1 win for his side, and it was the young Argentine who played the pioneering role.
Lionel Messi held the record for decades. (Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images)
#real
2 months ago
Ballon d'Or 2026 nominees list: Updated shortlist of players announced as soccer award contenders originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Ballon d'Or is considered the most prestigious individual award in soccer, and the 2026 gala is fast approaching as we will soon learn the latest player to be enshrined into global greatness.
Last year's men's winner Ousmane Dembele could be up for another triumph, but in all likelihood, a new winner is expected to be crowned.
Rodri, the 2024 winner, put himself back up for the award with a stunning run to a World Cup ****** le this summer, while Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Michael Olise are considered contenders.
Lionel Messi would have potentially been a candidate and is likely to be included on the list thanks to another World Cup full of heroics, but defeat in the final probably ended any chance of lifting a record-extending ninth trophy.
#award #sporting #list #Soccer
The Ballon d'Or is considered the most prestigious individual award in soccer, and the 2026 gala is fast approaching as we will soon learn the latest player to be enshrined into global greatness.
Last year's men's winner Ousmane Dembele could be up for another triumph, but in all likelihood, a new winner is expected to be crowned.
Rodri, the 2024 winner, put himself back up for the award with a stunning run to a World Cup ****** le this summer, while Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Michael Olise are considered contenders.
Lionel Messi would have potentially been a candidate and is likely to be included on the list thanks to another World Cup full of heroics, but defeat in the final probably ended any chance of lifting a record-extending ninth trophy.
#award #sporting #list #Soccer
2 months ago
Ballon d'Or 2026 nominees list: Updated shortlist of players announced as soccer award contenders originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Ballon d'Or is considered the most prestigious individual award in soccer, and the 2026 gala is fast approaching as we will soon learn the latest player to be enshrined into global greatness.
Last year's men's winner Ousmane Dembele could be up for another triumph, but in all likelihood, a new winner is expected to be crowned.
Rodri, the 2024 winner, put himself back up for the award with a stunning run to a World Cup ****** le this summer, while Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Michael Olise are considered contenders as well. Lionel Messi would have potentially been a candidate and is likely to be included on the list thanks to another World Cup full of heroics, but defeat in the final probably ended any chance of lifting a record-extending ninth trophy.
The Sporting News brings you a look at who has been nominated for this year's award, as the list of players from which the winner will be selected has been revealed.
#award #sporting #World
The Ballon d'Or is considered the most prestigious individual award in soccer, and the 2026 gala is fast approaching as we will soon learn the latest player to be enshrined into global greatness.
Last year's men's winner Ousmane Dembele could be up for another triumph, but in all likelihood, a new winner is expected to be crowned.
Rodri, the 2024 winner, put himself back up for the award with a stunning run to a World Cup ****** le this summer, while Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, and Michael Olise are considered contenders as well. Lionel Messi would have potentially been a candidate and is likely to be included on the list thanks to another World Cup full of heroics, but defeat in the final probably ended any chance of lifting a record-extending ninth trophy.
The Sporting News brings you a look at who has been nominated for this year's award, as the list of players from which the winner will be selected has been revealed.
#award #sporting #World
2 months ago
Lionel Messi set up both goals for Inter Miami as the Major League Soccer champions drew 2-2 with Atlanta United on Saturday in the Argentina star's first match since announcing his retirement from international football.
Thunderstorms and lightning delayed the start for 90 minutes, but there were sparks aplenty on the field after with Messi, Argentina's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, at the heart of the action.
Miami grabbed the lead in the 32nd minute when Brazil's Casemiro rose to head home Messi's corner.
Atlanta equalized three minutes later when former Newcastle forward Miguel Almiron blasted home a low shot.
Former Liverpool and Barcelona star Luis Suarez put Miami into the lead with a measured finish on the cusp of half-time after a move down the left started by Messi.
#lionel
Thunderstorms and lightning delayed the start for 90 minutes, but there were sparks aplenty on the field after with Messi, Argentina's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, at the heart of the action.
Miami grabbed the lead in the 32nd minute when Brazil's Casemiro rose to head home Messi's corner.
Atlanta equalized three minutes later when former Newcastle forward Miguel Almiron blasted home a low shot.
Former Liverpool and Barcelona star Luis Suarez put Miami into the lead with a measured finish on the cusp of half-time after a move down the left started by Messi.
#lionel
2 months ago
LeBron James teased a coming partnership with Polymarket on Saturday, becoming the latest name on a growing list of celebrities getting into business with the controversial prediction market industry.
"Welcome to Polymarket HQ. Coming soon," wrote James, captioning a 14-second video social media video that depicts him in an office elevator with floors labeled with names like "politics," "crypto," "culture" and "weather." The video ends with James smiling as he exits on the "sports" floor.
No other information about James' partnership with Polymarket has been disclosed, though the Athletic reports that it received a release from the platform saying more announcements will come Tuesday.
The partnership makes James the latest celebrity to tie themselves to the prediction market industry. The four-time NBA champion and founder of the SpringHill Company production banner, who is entering a record 24th season in the league, would be the first NBA athlete to sign a partnership with Polymarket. However, former champion and newly minted Miami Heat star Giannis Antetokounmpo announced a direct investment in rival platform Kalshi back in February. Additionally, tennis star Maria Sharapova and soccer legend Lionel Messi have both signed deals with Polymarket and Kalshi, respectively.
Prediction markets have looked to expand their profile outside of sports as well. In June, Timothée Chalamet was featured in a one-minute ad for Kalshi. Back in January, the Golden Globes broadcast featured an on-air partnership with Polymarket, displaying win probabilities for nominees that users could buy and sell predictions for and against on the platform.
#polymarket
"Welcome to Polymarket HQ. Coming soon," wrote James, captioning a 14-second video social media video that depicts him in an office elevator with floors labeled with names like "politics," "crypto," "culture" and "weather." The video ends with James smiling as he exits on the "sports" floor.
No other information about James' partnership with Polymarket has been disclosed, though the Athletic reports that it received a release from the platform saying more announcements will come Tuesday.
The partnership makes James the latest celebrity to tie themselves to the prediction market industry. The four-time NBA champion and founder of the SpringHill Company production banner, who is entering a record 24th season in the league, would be the first NBA athlete to sign a partnership with Polymarket. However, former champion and newly minted Miami Heat star Giannis Antetokounmpo announced a direct investment in rival platform Kalshi back in February. Additionally, tennis star Maria Sharapova and soccer legend Lionel Messi have both signed deals with Polymarket and Kalshi, respectively.
Prediction markets have looked to expand their profile outside of sports as well. In June, Timothée Chalamet was featured in a one-minute ad for Kalshi. Back in January, the Golden Globes broadcast featured an on-air partnership with Polymarket, displaying win probabilities for nominees that users could buy and sell predictions for and against on the platform.
#polymarket
2 months ago
Bruce Campbell is sharing a candid update on his cancer battle, saying doctors have told him he has about five years to live.
The 68-year-old actor, best known for starring as Ash Williams in the "Evil Dead" franchise, opened up about his prognosis during an appearance this week on "The Adam Carolla Show."
Campbell, who has not publicly disclosed the type of cancer he has, said his current life expectancy is five years, "give or take."
Lionel Richie returns home after checking himself into hospital
"I've decided though, pretty specifically, to live with it, not die from it," Campbell told Carolla.
#carolla #told #williams
The 68-year-old actor, best known for starring as Ash Williams in the "Evil Dead" franchise, opened up about his prognosis during an appearance this week on "The Adam Carolla Show."
Campbell, who has not publicly disclosed the type of cancer he has, said his current life expectancy is five years, "give or take."
Lionel Richie returns home after checking himself into hospital
"I've decided though, pretty specifically, to live with it, not die from it," Campbell told Carolla.
#carolla #told #williams
2 months ago
Chelsea are approaching the final weeks of the transfer window with an unresolved question at their centre. Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move to Manchester City throughout August, and the commercial logic of selling is not difficult to construct. What is considerably more difficult is justifying strengthening a direct rival at a moment when that rival's most glaring weakness is precisely the position Fernandez occupies.
Fernandez cost Chelsea €120 million in January 2023. He was bought to be the deep-lying conductor of a new-look midfield – the replacement for Jorginho, the organiser around whom creativity would flow. That vision has never been fully realised at Stamford Bridge, and the reasons why are well-documented.
Every manager Chelsea (7.04) has appointed since his arrival has struggled to make a Fernandez-Caicedo double pivot function out of possession. Fernandez is not physically built to cover large central ***** es. His defensive awareness is sharp enough for international soccer, where Lionel Scaloni's Argentina have found ways to manage around his limitations, but has never been sharp enough at club level to survive without significant structural support.
Enzo Maresca's solution last season was to move Fernandez into the left pocket, push a fullback deeper into the midfield beside Caicedo and slow Chelsea's possession game to keep the team compact. It improved the collective structure and allowed Fernandez to play his best soccer at Chelsea, scoring 15 goals across all competitions. But it came at a notable cost, most visibly, the significant dip in Cole Palmer's form.
Xabi Alonso is not going to replicate that approach. His 3-4-2-1 system places Morgan Rogers and Palmer as dual attacking midfielders behind the striker. That is precisely where Fernandez would be best utilised. But Chelsea paid £117 million for Rogers this transfer window to fill that exact role. The positional arithmetic does not work in Fernandez's favour.
#caicedo #rogers #window #difficult
Fernandez cost Chelsea €120 million in January 2023. He was bought to be the deep-lying conductor of a new-look midfield – the replacement for Jorginho, the organiser around whom creativity would flow. That vision has never been fully realised at Stamford Bridge, and the reasons why are well-documented.
Every manager Chelsea (7.04) has appointed since his arrival has struggled to make a Fernandez-Caicedo double pivot function out of possession. Fernandez is not physically built to cover large central ***** es. His defensive awareness is sharp enough for international soccer, where Lionel Scaloni's Argentina have found ways to manage around his limitations, but has never been sharp enough at club level to survive without significant structural support.
Enzo Maresca's solution last season was to move Fernandez into the left pocket, push a fullback deeper into the midfield beside Caicedo and slow Chelsea's possession game to keep the team compact. It improved the collective structure and allowed Fernandez to play his best soccer at Chelsea, scoring 15 goals across all competitions. But it came at a notable cost, most visibly, the significant dip in Cole Palmer's form.
Xabi Alonso is not going to replicate that approach. His 3-4-2-1 system places Morgan Rogers and Palmer as dual attacking midfielders behind the striker. That is precisely where Fernandez would be best utilised. But Chelsea paid £117 million for Rogers this transfer window to fill that exact role. The positional arithmetic does not work in Fernandez's favour.
#caicedo #rogers #window #difficult
2 months ago
Lionel Richie made headlines this week after it was revealed the musician had checked himself into intensive care after a concert on Saturday night.
While performing his hit track 'All Night Long,' the 77-year-old requested a chair on stage and had to sit down for the rest of the performance.
Lionel Richie checked himself into intensive care after a concert on Saturday night (@ Getty Images)
The news sparked a wave of support from concerned fans, who quickly flooded his social media pages with well-wishes. Amidst the outpouring of love, one person undoubtedly by Lionel's side as he gets back on his feet is his girlfriend, Lisa Parigi.
Find out all you need to know about Lionel's other half below.
#care #concert #long
While performing his hit track 'All Night Long,' the 77-year-old requested a chair on stage and had to sit down for the rest of the performance.
Lionel Richie checked himself into intensive care after a concert on Saturday night (@ Getty Images)
The news sparked a wave of support from concerned fans, who quickly flooded his social media pages with well-wishes. Amidst the outpouring of love, one person undoubtedly by Lionel's side as he gets back on his feet is his girlfriend, Lisa Parigi.
Find out all you need to know about Lionel's other half below.
#care #concert #long
2 months ago
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes said it will be difficult to continue playing international football after receiving a 10-match suspension for his role in a brawl following the World Cup final defeat by Spain.
The 32-year-old also said Lionel Messi's decision to retire from Argentina duty was another reason he would have to weigh up his future with the national team.
Paredes received the suspension in August, weeks after an altercation erupted at the final whistle when he shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground as the champions' substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate.
Paredes faced three ***** ault charges, while teammate Nahuel Molina faced two. Both players were also fined $90,000.
"It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team," Paredes told Argentinian media on Tuesday.
#Argentina
The 32-year-old also said Lionel Messi's decision to retire from Argentina duty was another reason he would have to weigh up his future with the national team.
Paredes received the suspension in August, weeks after an altercation erupted at the final whistle when he shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground as the champions' substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate.
Paredes faced three ***** ault charges, while teammate Nahuel Molina faced two. Both players were also fined $90,000.
"It's going to be difficult for me to stay with the national team," Paredes told Argentinian media on Tuesday.
#Argentina
2 months ago
A fabulous goalscorer against Rayo Vallecano, Lamine Yamal netted the 50th goal of his career with FC Barcelona.
Thanks to this goal, the Spanish winger became, at 19 years and 49 days old, the youngest player in history to reach 50 goals, ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
On Monday afternoon, Lionel Messi officially said goodbye to the Argentina national team. So it's time to say farewell to these legendary years with a little retrospective. Goodbye, legend.
Here we are: the final day of the summer transfer window in Europe's top five leagues! Panic buy, blockbuster deal, collapse... anything can happen on a day like no other!
So hang on tight, OneFootball is here to help you follow this crazy day! And because we're nice like that, you can find a recap of all yesterday's news by clicking right here.
#like #vallecano #Barcelona
Thanks to this goal, the Spanish winger became, at 19 years and 49 days old, the youngest player in history to reach 50 goals, ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
On Monday afternoon, Lionel Messi officially said goodbye to the Argentina national team. So it's time to say farewell to these legendary years with a little retrospective. Goodbye, legend.
Here we are: the final day of the summer transfer window in Europe's top five leagues! Panic buy, blockbuster deal, collapse... anything can happen on a day like no other!
So hang on tight, OneFootball is here to help you follow this crazy day! And because we're nice like that, you can find a recap of all yesterday's news by clicking right here.
#like #vallecano #Barcelona
2 months ago
Lionel Messi's former Argentina teammates have paid tribute to their retiring captain after the great No 10 brought the curtain down on his international career.
Messi confirmed on Monday that his Argentina career was at an end after 207 appearances and 125 goals for his country.
The 39-year-old, who will continue to play on for Inter Miami, led the nation to World Cup triumph in 2022, and again captained them to the final of this year's tournament.
Lionel Messi has retired from international football (PA)
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward retires as the second leading male goalscorer in international football, with Messi behind only great on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
#lionel #Argentina #Inter
Messi confirmed on Monday that his Argentina career was at an end after 207 appearances and 125 goals for his country.
The 39-year-old, who will continue to play on for Inter Miami, led the nation to World Cup triumph in 2022, and again captained them to the final of this year's tournament.
Lionel Messi has retired from international football (PA)
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward retires as the second leading male goalscorer in international football, with Messi behind only great on-field rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
#lionel #Argentina #Inter
2 months ago
After more than two decades, Lionel Messi is bringing his highly decorated international career to an end. The Argentina captain announced Monday that he has retired from international play, calling it an "incredible experience" to play for La Albiceleste.
Messi's 21-year international career is the stuff of legends. The forward ends with a World Cup **** le, two Copa América trophies, two World Cup Golden **** and the second-most World Cup goals (21) in the tournament's history, among many other honors. Messi constantly denied father time, putting up some of his best soccer in the later years of his career and continuing to import a high standard of play on a surging Argentina team.
With a long-spanning career and too many accolades to name, it's difficult to pare Messi's career down to just a few moments, but here are a few of the most important.
One year after earning his first senior team call-up, Messi traveled to his first World Cup in 2006. Even as a long-haired teenager, Messi was already a phenomenon.
The then-18-year-old made his debut in the group stage against Serbia, and scored 13 minutes after subbing in.
#Career #year
Messi's 21-year international career is the stuff of legends. The forward ends with a World Cup **** le, two Copa América trophies, two World Cup Golden **** and the second-most World Cup goals (21) in the tournament's history, among many other honors. Messi constantly denied father time, putting up some of his best soccer in the later years of his career and continuing to import a high standard of play on a surging Argentina team.
With a long-spanning career and too many accolades to name, it's difficult to pare Messi's career down to just a few moments, but here are a few of the most important.
One year after earning his first senior team call-up, Messi traveled to his first World Cup in 2006. Even as a long-haired teenager, Messi was already a phenomenon.
The then-18-year-old made his debut in the group stage against Serbia, and scored 13 minutes after subbing in.
#Career #year
2 months ago
LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - DECEMBER 18: Lionel Messi of Argentina kisses the trophy after winning while sitting on the shoulders of a teammate after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Tnani Badreddine/Defodi Images via Getty Images)
This writer has had the privilege and blessing to watch in person and write about some of the greatest men's superstars and personalities on the planet.
The list includes:
Pele.
Diego Maradona.
#lusail #city #lionel #fifa
This writer has had the privilege and blessing to watch in person and write about some of the greatest men's superstars and personalities on the planet.
The list includes:
Pele.
Diego Maradona.
#lusail #city #lionel #fifa
2 months ago
Lionel Messi said on Monday he was retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.
The 39-year-old forward who won the World Cup in 2022 and dragged his nation to the final in the United States only to lose to Spain, said the decision had been painful.
"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt," he added.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory four years ago by winning the final against France in a penalty shootout in Doha, but his side lost 1-0 to a superior Spain side in the 2026 final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
#final #gave
The 39-year-old forward who won the World Cup in 2022 and dragged his nation to the final in the United States only to lose to Spain, said the decision had been painful.
"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt," he added.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory four years ago by winning the final against France in a penalty shootout in Doha, but his side lost 1-0 to a superior Spain side in the 2026 final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
#final #gave
2 months ago
Barcelona's teenage star Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both struck twice as the champions beat Rayo Vallecano 5-2 on Monday to continue their perfect start to the campaign.
Sergio Camello netted a brace for the visitors at Camp Nou but Hansi Flick's Barca managed to record a third win from three matches from an entertaining battle.
With his first goal, Yamal, 19, hit the milestone of 50 for the club -- two years younger than Barcelona icon Lionel Messi was when he managed the feat.
"We have to keep working, for now it's three wins from three, and we have to try and reach all our objectives," said Barca midfielder Marc Bernal.
"In the last games (Yamal) could not score, but he's shown his quality through his career. Today he scored and we're happy for him."
#yamal #lamine
Sergio Camello netted a brace for the visitors at Camp Nou but Hansi Flick's Barca managed to record a third win from three matches from an entertaining battle.
With his first goal, Yamal, 19, hit the milestone of 50 for the club -- two years younger than Barcelona icon Lionel Messi was when he managed the feat.
"We have to keep working, for now it's three wins from three, and we have to try and reach all our objectives," said Barca midfielder Marc Bernal.
"In the last games (Yamal) could not score, but he's shown his quality through his career. Today he scored and we're happy for him."
#yamal #lamine
2 months ago
Lionel Messi said on Monday he was retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.
The 39-year-old forward who won the World Cup in 2022 and dragged his nation to the final in the United States only to lose to Spain, said the decision had been painful.
"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt," he added.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory four years ago by winning the final against France in a penalty shootout in Doha, but his side lost 1-0 to a superior Spain side in the 2026 final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
#messi #always #gave #everything
The 39-year-old forward who won the World Cup in 2022 and dragged his nation to the final in the United States only to lose to Spain, said the decision had been painful.
"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi wrote on Instagram.
"I swear I always gave everything, not just in the last few years when we won everything but before that too, and I always fought and gave my all for this shirt," he added.
Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory four years ago by winning the final against France in a penalty shootout in Doha, but his side lost 1-0 to a superior Spain side in the 2026 final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
#messi #always #gave #everything
2 months ago
By Justin Ruderman
Ranging from the Philadelphia Union's teenage phenoms to Inter Miami CF's global icons, stars proved age is just a number and earned their spot on Matchday 23's Team of the Matchday presented by Audi.
Starters: Brian Schwake (NSH) - Casemiro (MIA), Neil Pierre (PHI), Reggie Cannon (COL) - Allan Saint-Maximin (CLT), Carles Gil (NE), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Cavan Sullivan (PHI) - Antoine Griezmann (ORL), Dejan Joveljić (SEA), Lionel Messi (MIA)
Coach: B.J. Callaghan (NSH)
Bench: Hugo Lloris (LAFC), Oleksandr Svatok (ATX), Mamadou Fofana (NE), Thomas Müller (VAN), Nicolás Fernández Mercau (NYC), Anders Dreyer (SD), Robert Lewandowski (CHI), Sam Surridge (NSH), Kelvin Yeboah (MIN)
#matchday #philadelphia #Miami
Ranging from the Philadelphia Union's teenage phenoms to Inter Miami CF's global icons, stars proved age is just a number and earned their spot on Matchday 23's Team of the Matchday presented by Audi.
Starters: Brian Schwake (NSH) - Casemiro (MIA), Neil Pierre (PHI), Reggie Cannon (COL) - Allan Saint-Maximin (CLT), Carles Gil (NE), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Cavan Sullivan (PHI) - Antoine Griezmann (ORL), Dejan Joveljić (SEA), Lionel Messi (MIA)
Coach: B.J. Callaghan (NSH)
Bench: Hugo Lloris (LAFC), Oleksandr Svatok (ATX), Mamadou Fofana (NE), Thomas Müller (VAN), Nicolás Fernández Mercau (NYC), Anders Dreyer (SD), Robert Lewandowski (CHI), Sam Surridge (NSH), Kelvin Yeboah (MIN)
#matchday #philadelphia #Miami
2 months ago
Lionel Messi has retired from international football, bringing the curtain down on his Argentina career after falling short in the World Cup final in July.
Perhaps the greatest player of all time, Messi had been hoping to lead his side to back-to-back tournament triumphs but suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in extra time.
The 39-year-old made 207 appearances for his country, the second most by any men's international footballer, scoring 125 times across a career that spanned more than two decades.
Lionel Messi has called time on his international career (Getty Images)
Messi revealed he decided to retire two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the World Cup final on 19 July, but then delayed announcing his decision.
#messi #july
Perhaps the greatest player of all time, Messi had been hoping to lead his side to back-to-back tournament triumphs but suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in extra time.
The 39-year-old made 207 appearances for his country, the second most by any men's international footballer, scoring 125 times across a career that spanned more than two decades.
Lionel Messi has called time on his international career (Getty Images)
Messi revealed he decided to retire two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the World Cup final on 19 July, but then delayed announcing his decision.
#messi #july
2 months ago
BUENOS AIRES (AP) - Lionel Messi has ended his career as a player for the Argentine national team at 39 years old, after nearly two decades representing the national side.
Messi, who played in six World Cups, won the tournament in Qatar 2022 and led Argentina to the final in 2026 losing to Spain.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deeply - but I understand that the time has come," Messi said on his official Instagram account. "I swear to you that I always gave it my all- not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."
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This article originally published at Lionel Messi says he's retiring from playing for Argentina.
#lionel #always #everything #buenos
Messi, who played in six World Cups, won the tournament in Qatar 2022 and led Argentina to the final in 2026 losing to Spain.
"It was a decision that hurt - and still hurts deeply - but I understand that the time has come," Messi said on his official Instagram account. "I swear to you that I always gave it my all- not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football."
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This article originally published at Lionel Messi says he's retiring from playing for Argentina.
#lionel #always #everything #buenos
2 months ago
Thanks to an early goal from Casemiro and a historic night for Lionel Messi, who scored four times including two free-kicks, Inter Miami thrashed CF Montréal 7-1 in Fort Lauderdale in the MLS.
Casemiro opened the scoring in the 20th minute, rising highest to head home Telasco Segovia's corner.
The Canadians briefly levelled through Herbers, but Messi soon restored Miami's advantage with a free-kick that took a touch off Petrasso before wrong-footing Thomas Gillier.
Messi struck again early in the second half, weaving through the defence after a pass from Luis Suárez before making it 3-1.
Suárez then added a fourth, rounding Gillier after being played through by Messi, who completed his hat-trick moments later with a delicate finish over the goalkeeper.
#messi #early
Casemiro opened the scoring in the 20th minute, rising highest to head home Telasco Segovia's corner.
The Canadians briefly levelled through Herbers, but Messi soon restored Miami's advantage with a free-kick that took a touch off Petrasso before wrong-footing Thomas Gillier.
Messi struck again early in the second half, weaving through the defence after a pass from Luis Suárez before making it 3-1.
Suárez then added a fourth, rounding Gillier after being played through by Messi, who completed his hat-trick moments later with a delicate finish over the goalkeeper.
#messi #early
2 months ago
Lionel Messi continues to defy age by producing breathtaking performances.
The Argentine was at the peak of his powers on Saturday as he smashed four goals to help Inter Miami beat Montreal 7-1.
It was the first time Messi had scored four goals in a Major League Soccer (MLS) match.
Miami were on a five-game winless run in all competitions, but they returned to winning ways thanks to a vintage performance from the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Casemiro delivered a breakthrough in the 20th minute by heading past the goalkeeper.
#saturday #Inter
The Argentine was at the peak of his powers on Saturday as he smashed four goals to help Inter Miami beat Montreal 7-1.
It was the first time Messi had scored four goals in a Major League Soccer (MLS) match.
Miami were on a five-game winless run in all competitions, but they returned to winning ways thanks to a vintage performance from the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Casemiro delivered a breakthrough in the 20th minute by heading past the goalkeeper.
#saturday #Inter
2 months ago
A memorable evening for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Last night in Florida, La Pulga and the Herons thrashed CF Montréal at home: 7-1!
Messi was the star of the night, scoring four goals, including two from free kicks, helping the Floridians end a run of five matches without a win.
Here are the highlights of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's four-goal haul.
Meanwhile, a little farther north in the United States, Antoine Griezmann also got on the scoresheet in the spectacular draw between Minnesota and Orlando City (3-3)!
#lionel #major #league
Last night in Florida, La Pulga and the Herons thrashed CF Montréal at home: 7-1!
Messi was the star of the night, scoring four goals, including two from free kicks, helping the Floridians end a run of five matches without a win.
Here are the highlights of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's four-goal haul.
Meanwhile, a little farther north in the United States, Antoine Griezmann also got on the scoresheet in the spectacular draw between Minnesota and Orlando City (3-3)!
#lionel #major #league
2 months ago
Lionel Messi is still not slowing down anytime soon. The Argentine legend bagged a hat-trick against CF Montréal this evening as the Herons thrashed the Canadian side.
Initially it appeared the forward had scored four to finish the night, but after the match one of his goals was adjusted to an own-goal by Montréal. A stunning performance nonetheless.
Miami had been in a slump lately, but with new head coach Kily Gonzalez in the door this week, they made a statement with the thrashing of Montréal on home soil.
Messi was the star man, as usual, scoring three goals in the process, including two ridiculous finishes.
The first came from a vintage mazy run in the box before sliding the ball home.
#montr #herons #canadian
Initially it appeared the forward had scored four to finish the night, but after the match one of his goals was adjusted to an own-goal by Montréal. A stunning performance nonetheless.
Miami had been in a slump lately, but with new head coach Kily Gonzalez in the door this week, they made a statement with the thrashing of Montréal on home soil.
Messi was the star man, as usual, scoring three goals in the process, including two ridiculous finishes.
The first came from a vintage mazy run in the box before sliding the ball home.
#montr #herons #canadian
2 months ago
Lionel Messi scored four goals as Inter Miami snapped their five-game winless streak with a 7-1 thrashing of struggling Montreal in Major League Soccer on Saturday.
Miami have endured a rocky spell since the resumption of play following the World Cup finals, losing four of their previous five games heading into Saturday's clash in Florida.
But the reigning MLS Cup champions got back to winning ways with a confident performance against Montreal, who are languishing second from bottom in the Eastern Conference.
Brazil international Casemiro, who joined Miami after the World Cup, bagged his first goal for the champions with a 20th minute header at the Nu Stadium.
Montreal though hit back with a 37th-minute goal from Fabian Herbers, the German midfielder's low shot from the edge of the area squeezing into the bottom corner.
#World #champions #back #minute
Miami have endured a rocky spell since the resumption of play following the World Cup finals, losing four of their previous five games heading into Saturday's clash in Florida.
But the reigning MLS Cup champions got back to winning ways with a confident performance against Montreal, who are languishing second from bottom in the Eastern Conference.
Brazil international Casemiro, who joined Miami after the World Cup, bagged his first goal for the champions with a 20th minute header at the Nu Stadium.
Montreal though hit back with a 37th-minute goal from Fabian Herbers, the German midfielder's low shot from the edge of the area squeezing into the bottom corner.
#World #champions #back #minute
2 months ago
Lionel Messi is unstoppable. The Inter Miami star once again had a night to remember on Saturday, scoring four goals as the Herons thrashed CF Montréal 7-1.
With the haul, Messi hit 17 goals on the season, a number that pulls him to a lead in the MLS Golden Boot race. The Inter Miami captain tied and then passed FC Dallas forward Petar Musa for the sole spot at the top of the scoring standings.
Two of Messi's goals came off free kicks, one of the veteran forward's specialties. Messi pulled Miami back into the lead in the 40th minute with a curving shot that was mishandled by the Montéal defense.
Early in the second half, Messi found the back of the net again, staying upright through traffic before sending in a powerful shot.
In the 83rd minute, Messi timed a chip past Montréal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier, who surged to meet the captain but didn't get there in time.
#montr #lead #captain #back
With the haul, Messi hit 17 goals on the season, a number that pulls him to a lead in the MLS Golden Boot race. The Inter Miami captain tied and then passed FC Dallas forward Petar Musa for the sole spot at the top of the scoring standings.
Two of Messi's goals came off free kicks, one of the veteran forward's specialties. Messi pulled Miami back into the lead in the 40th minute with a curving shot that was mishandled by the Montéal defense.
Early in the second half, Messi found the back of the net again, staying upright through traffic before sending in a powerful shot.
In the 83rd minute, Messi timed a chip past Montréal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier, who surged to meet the captain but didn't get there in time.
#montr #lead #captain #back
2 months ago
good morning everyone – Isn't it good to have football back?
One of the questions I've been asking myself today is, "How did I not know Marcus Edwards plays for Burnley?", which is quickly followed by, "Have I been living under a rock?"
These are the kinds of questions you ask yourself when you watch the EFL Championship. The Clarets were relegated last year to the second tier, where their season has not gotten off to a good start. They lost 1-3 to West Brom in the second match. Usually you'd expect Burnley to make another automatics charge, but this feels different.
What I noticed watching the WBA-Burnley match on Sunday was one Marcus Edwards. The former Tottenham Hotspur starlet is in his first full season with the club after being loaned there in February by Sporting CP.
He's had a very odd career. Mauricio Pochettino compared him to Lionel Messi (that didn't pan out).
#second #match #isn 't
One of the questions I've been asking myself today is, "How did I not know Marcus Edwards plays for Burnley?", which is quickly followed by, "Have I been living under a rock?"
These are the kinds of questions you ask yourself when you watch the EFL Championship. The Clarets were relegated last year to the second tier, where their season has not gotten off to a good start. They lost 1-3 to West Brom in the second match. Usually you'd expect Burnley to make another automatics charge, but this feels different.
What I noticed watching the WBA-Burnley match on Sunday was one Marcus Edwards. The former Tottenham Hotspur starlet is in his first full season with the club after being loaned there in February by Sporting CP.
He's had a very odd career. Mauricio Pochettino compared him to Lionel Messi (that didn't pan out).
#second #match #isn 't
2 months ago
It already feels like quite some time ago, and yet it also still feels like it was only just a few weeks ago that Germany yet again floundered out of the World Cup far earlier than they should have. In Foxborough, Massachusetts, they fell to Paraguay in a penalty shootout after failing to get the job done in 90 minutes, but the writing was on the wall as they collectively failed to hit their heights throughout the entire tournament — starting off the group stages with a 7-1 trouncing of Curaçao in Houston, Texas probably didn't do wonders for keeping them on their toes.
Too many players underperformed, mid-match management calls and tactical changes might not have been right, but what's done is done and Germany can now ride a wave of anticipation and excitement into Jürgen Klopp's reign as Die Mannschaft manager, as the former Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Mainz man took over for Julian Nagelsmann. The DFB more or less strongly urged Nagelsmann to resign after the World Cup, but was he really to blame for everything that went wrong for Germany, or was he just the easiest scapegoat to point at? For former/honorary Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeneß, the problems with the team extended well beyond Nagelsmann.
"I think our team's performance was an absolute disaster. It was a disgrace for our country. But there are various reasons for that. Enough has already been said about Julian Nagelsmann. I don't think he is solely to blame. We don't have a team of outstanding quality, but you can still have a good World Cup. Argentina proved that. They don't have a good team, but they threw everything into it like crazy. That's what I felt was missing from our team," Hoeneß recently stressed to RTL / Sky Germany (via iMiaSanMia).
Of course, Argentina made it to the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey where they lost to Spain, but a great portion of their campaign was a massive topic of discussions for the way in which they were given a plethora of favorable calls in different matches and getting away with blatant, persistent fouling.
That's not to say that the Argentine squad doesn't possess the grit, fight, and tenacity within the laws of the game that routinely gets them to the latter stages of World Cups, but there certainly questions raised; why didn't Lionel Messi get a red vs. Saudi Arabia, why was Egypt's 3rd goal disallowed, why didn't anyone get booked early on vs. England? All legitimate questions asked, but for Hoeneß, he doesn't see that type of fight from Germany that Argentina almost always displays.
#germany #hoene
Too many players underperformed, mid-match management calls and tactical changes might not have been right, but what's done is done and Germany can now ride a wave of anticipation and excitement into Jürgen Klopp's reign as Die Mannschaft manager, as the former Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Mainz man took over for Julian Nagelsmann. The DFB more or less strongly urged Nagelsmann to resign after the World Cup, but was he really to blame for everything that went wrong for Germany, or was he just the easiest scapegoat to point at? For former/honorary Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeneß, the problems with the team extended well beyond Nagelsmann.
"I think our team's performance was an absolute disaster. It was a disgrace for our country. But there are various reasons for that. Enough has already been said about Julian Nagelsmann. I don't think he is solely to blame. We don't have a team of outstanding quality, but you can still have a good World Cup. Argentina proved that. They don't have a good team, but they threw everything into it like crazy. That's what I felt was missing from our team," Hoeneß recently stressed to RTL / Sky Germany (via iMiaSanMia).
Of course, Argentina made it to the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey where they lost to Spain, but a great portion of their campaign was a massive topic of discussions for the way in which they were given a plethora of favorable calls in different matches and getting away with blatant, persistent fouling.
That's not to say that the Argentine squad doesn't possess the grit, fight, and tenacity within the laws of the game that routinely gets them to the latter stages of World Cups, but there certainly questions raised; why didn't Lionel Messi get a red vs. Saudi Arabia, why was Egypt's 3rd goal disallowed, why didn't anyone get booked early on vs. England? All legitimate questions asked, but for Hoeneß, he doesn't see that type of fight from Germany that Argentina almost always displays.
#germany #hoene
3 months ago
In a FIFA World Cup year, the Ballon d'Or is often decided by the result of the global event and performances at the same time.
The situation this time around, however, is queer.
Spain, who won the World Cup, had no clear bona fide overperformer and won because of their collective efforts. The teams that had clear standout individuals, meanwhile, all fell short.
Lionel Messi, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and even Vinicius Jr. had spectacular World Cup campaigns but all fell short. Further, all their club seasons were far from impressive, making the Ballon d'Or complicated.
In the Spanish contingent, meanwhile, Rodri stood out but barely played for the club through injury, and Lamine Yamal who shone for Barcelona was not as effective in the World Cup.
#d 'or #time #meanwhile
The situation this time around, however, is queer.
Spain, who won the World Cup, had no clear bona fide overperformer and won because of their collective efforts. The teams that had clear standout individuals, meanwhile, all fell short.
Lionel Messi, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and even Vinicius Jr. had spectacular World Cup campaigns but all fell short. Further, all their club seasons were far from impressive, making the Ballon d'Or complicated.
In the Spanish contingent, meanwhile, Rodri stood out but barely played for the club through injury, and Lamine Yamal who shone for Barcelona was not as effective in the World Cup.
#d 'or #time #meanwhile
3 months ago
European experience might not be everything in MLS, but it goes far when it comes to player ratings for EA Sports FC 27.
Lionel Messi is the top-rated MLS player with an 89 overall, the game-makers revealed on their official channels, but he's closely followed by a pair of players who arrived in MLS this summer - both of whom, like Messi, played for FC Barcelona in their standout careers.
Robert Lewandowski, the Polish forward who joined the Chicago Fire this summer, and Orlando City signing Antoine Griezmann, who joined from Atlético Madrid on a free transfer, both are rated 84 overall.
The respect for new arrivals with experience in Europe doesn't end there. Next on the list is Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder who became Messi's Inter Miami teammate this summer after four seasons with Manchester United and a decade with Real Madrid before that.
Casemiro is an 83 overall, as is Rodrigo De Paul, another member of Inter Miami who joined the club after Messi moved across the Atlantic to suit up for the Herons.
#casemiro #experience
Lionel Messi is the top-rated MLS player with an 89 overall, the game-makers revealed on their official channels, but he's closely followed by a pair of players who arrived in MLS this summer - both of whom, like Messi, played for FC Barcelona in their standout careers.
Robert Lewandowski, the Polish forward who joined the Chicago Fire this summer, and Orlando City signing Antoine Griezmann, who joined from Atlético Madrid on a free transfer, both are rated 84 overall.
The respect for new arrivals with experience in Europe doesn't end there. Next on the list is Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder who became Messi's Inter Miami teammate this summer after four seasons with Manchester United and a decade with Real Madrid before that.
Casemiro is an 83 overall, as is Rodrigo De Paul, another member of Inter Miami who joined the club after Messi moved across the Atlantic to suit up for the Herons.
#casemiro #experience
