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FIFA Confirms 8 Brazilian Venues for Historic 2027 Women’s World Cup

May 8, 2025, 1:36 pm

In a historic announcement that has electrified fans across continents, FIFA has confirmed Brazil as the host nation for the 2027 Women’s World Cup—making it the first edition of the highly coveted tournament to be hosted in Latin America.

The tournament, which will run from June 24 to July 25, 2027, will see 32 teams and be held across eight venues. The famous Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro tops the lineup, followed by stadiums in Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, Salvador, and São Paulo.

“From samba to frevo, from stunning beaches to cosmopolitan cities, the world will experience the energy, colour and warmth that only Brazil can offer,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said. His sentiments capture Brazil’s unique capacity to blend sport with culture, guaranteeing an explosion of a show for fans and competitors alike.

? The stage is set! ?

The host cities for the #FIFAWWC Brazil 2027 have been confirmed, with the help of some special guests from each city! ???

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) May 7, 2025

A New Chapter for Women’s Football

FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom, furthermore, stressed the historical significance of the move. “The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 will mark a historic milestone as the tournament heads to South America for the very first time,” he declared. “The women’s game continues to grow at an extraordinary pace, and bringing the tournament to Brazil will inspire a new generation across the continent and beyond.”

The decision is, without a doubt, a resounding vote of confidence in Brazil’s sporting infrastructure and football passion. From the iconic Copacabana beaches to the bustling, crowded arenas of São Paulo, the host cities are, undoubtedly, set to welcome the tournament with open arms.

Additionally, this tournament is more than football—it is an opportunity for Brazil to be the voice for gender equality in sport, give empowerment to girls, and provide a platform for its diverse cultural heritage to the world.

As Infantino stressed, “We will continue to work closely with the selected host cities on the exciting journey ahead of us, creating unforgettable moments in each of their stadiums in 2027, and ensuring that this tournament has a major and widespread positive impact.”

With samba rhythms, state-of-the-art stadiums, and enthusiastic supporters, Brazil is poised to host a Women’s World Cup unlike any other.

Sunil Chhetri Comes Out of Retirement to Lead India in FIFA International Window

March 7, 2025, 1:15 pm

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri has chosen to return from international retirement to aid the national team in the forthcoming FIFA International Window, beginning in March 2025. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced this on Thursday.

India’s record leading goal scorer Chhetri will return in the third round of AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Bangladesh on March 25. The experienced forward has been reinstated to the 26-member list for the important international games by head coach Manolo Marquez.

“The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March,” the AIFF posted on X.

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The captain, leader, legend will return to the Indian national team for the FIFA International Window in March.#IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/vzSQo0Ctez

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) March 6, 2025

Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host India’s two matches during this window. India is placed in a qualifying group alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong (China), and Singapore. The team aims to overcome its disappointing run in the previous AFC Asian Cup, where it failed to progress past the group stage.

Chhetri’s International Comeback

Chhetri had previously declared his international retirement from football in June 2024 after India drew with Kuwait in a goalless match during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. His return is, however, regarded as a significant fillip for Indian football due to his experience and on-field leadership.

At 40, Chhetri is still a force to be reckoned with in football. He trails only Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Ali Daei in the all-time top international goal scorers in men’s football. Even after retiring from international duty, he played for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League, demonstrating his commitment to the game.

Legacy of Sunil Chhetri Indian Football

Chhetri has been a pillar of strength for Indian football for almost twenty years. He has led India to numerous successes with his captaincy and shooting skills, such as:

Nehru Cup Championships (2007, 2009, 2012)

SAFF Championship Wins (2011, 2015, 2021)

AFC Challenge Cup Victory (2008) – winning India an AFC Asian Cup spot in 27 years.

His journey abroad started in 2005 with his first goal against Pakistan. A turning point was created in the 2011 SAFF Championship when he broke I.M. Vijayan’s record of most goals scored in an edition when he scored seven to bring India the championship.

On club and country, Chhetri has scored a staggering 252 goals in 515 games, with an impressive goal-per-game ratio. All his accomplishments have fetched him international acclaim, and FIFA awarded him a documentary, “Captain Fantastic,” in 2022.

India’s Road Ahead

With Chhetri on the field now, India’s team receives a huge shot in the arm ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification. His experience and guidance will be pivotal in getting through the tough group stage matches. Chhetri fans and analysts both will wait to see whether he can help India qualify for yet another milestone tournament.

The return of the iconic forward not only fortifies the team but also kindles renewed hope for Indian football’s future.

Shock Return: Ex-Soccer Titans Blatter, Platini Face Second Trial Over $2M FIFA Deal!

March 3, 2025, 2:38 pm

Ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter appeared at a Swiss court on Monday for a fresh trial on charges of fraud, forgery, and misappropriation, just one week before his 89th birthday. Blatter, looking noticeably frail, walked slowly down a flight of stairs toward the courthouse, steadying himself on the handrail.

Renewed Legal Battle

Blatter, along with his co-defendant and former UEFA president Michel Platini, is now facing a second trial nearly three years after their previous acquittal by three federal judges. The charges stem from a controversial FIFA-approved payment of 2 million Swiss francs made to Platini, a move that prosecutors claim damaged FIFA’s assets and unlawfully enriched Platini. Despite their previous acquittal in July 2022 following an 11-day trial at Switzerland’s federal criminal court in Bellinzona, an appeal from the Swiss attorney general’s office and FIFA has led to this new legal proceeding.

Details of the Case

According to federal prosecutors, the payment in question was made during Blatter’s first presidential term, with both Blatter and Platini consistently denying any wrongdoing. They assert that a verbal agreement was in place for non-contracted advisory work, which eventually led to the disputed payment. Prosecutors are now seeking suspended sentences of 20 months. The fresh trial is expected to last four days, with a verdict scheduled for March 25.

Background and Impact on Soccer

The case, reopened over 14 years after the payment and 9½ years after formal investigation, emerged from the massive corruption crisis that engulfed FIFA in May 2015. This crisis led to early-morning arrests in Zurich and the seizure of extensive financial records, fundamentally altering the landscape of international soccer governance.

Since October 2015, both Blatter and Platini have been suspended from their roles by the FIFA ethics committee. Platini’s ban expired in 2019, while Blatter received a subsequent ban in 2021, effectively exiling him from the sport until late 2028, when he will be 92 years old.

Legal Proceedings and Reactions

The new trial opened at a cantonal courthouse functioning as a federal tribunal, with three judges from different cantons presiding over the case. Notably, FIFA was not represented in court during these proceedings. In a dramatic moment, Platini’s lawyer, Dominic Nellen, questioned the absence of FIFA’s representation, asking, “Where is FIFA?” in a bid to dismiss the soccer body’s appeal.

Both defendants have maintained their innocence throughout the legal process, denying any allegations of self-dealing. Their case remains a high-profile reminder of the long-lasting repercussions of the corruption scandal that once rocked international soccer.

FIFA Suspends Pakistan Football Federation for Failing to Adopt Revised Constitution

February 7, 2025, 1:53 pm

In a major blow to Pakistan’s football scene, FIFA has suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) effective immediately. The suspension was announced by the Bureau of the FIFA Council on Thursday. It follows PFF’s failure to implement a revised version of its constitution, as mandated by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) as part of the ongoing normalization process.

This is the third time PFF has faced suspension since 2017. This makes it even more challenging for the future of football in Pakistan.

Statement by FIFA Regarding Suspension

In a statement, FIFA said this suspension was necessary because Pakistan’s footballing body was not by democratic standards of governance. The Bureau of the FIFA Council said the decision was made following PFF’s failure to implement a new constitution that would assure the holding of free and democratic elections. Because of this, FIFA said PFF failed to meet its commitments under the process of normalization being undertaken.

According to the statement, “The PFF has been suspended with immediate effect due to its failure to adopt a revision of the PFF Constitution that would ensure truly fair and democratic elections and thereby fulfill its obligations as mandated by FIFA as part of the ongoing normalization process of PFF.”

“The suspension will only be lifted subject to the PFF Congress approving the version of the PFF Constitution presented by FIFA and the AFC,” it added.

PFF’s Troubled History with FIFA

It marks the third suspension since 2017, for the PFF by FIFA, and this one is more painful because the suspensions are rooted in persistent administrative and governance issues within the PFF. Therefore, this goes to prove the challenges Pakistan still faces in its football governance system.

2017 Suspension: The first suspension occurred on 10 October 2017 due to third-party interference, against the provisions of FIFA’s statutes. The suspension was lifted on 13 March 2018, so Pakistan is appearing in the 2018 Asian Games and SAFF Championship.
2021 Suspension: In 2021, Syed Ashfaq Hussain Shah-led group takes PFF office by force leading to the suspension of footballing activities of Pakistan on 7 April 2021. Suspended for over a year the suspension was ended on 29 June 2022.

Suspension Effect of Suspension on Football in Pakistan

The latest FIFA suspension is a huge blow to Pakistan football. Under the suspension, the national team and local clubs are no longer allowed to take part in international tournaments conducted by FIFA and the AFC. Exclusion from international tournaments not only restricts the nation’s presence in the global football arena but also hampers critical developmental programs, funding, and international collaborations, further hindering the growth of football in Pakistan.

And till that time, the suspension of Pakistan remains, and only with the PFF’s acceptance of the new constitution can the suspension be lifted from the country’s footballing arena, which, at present, remains uncertain for the sport in the country.

Top Soccer Players Protest FIFA’s Packed Schedule Amid Rising Injuries

December 23, 2024, 9:37 am

Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City and Spain, has been a vocal critic of the overloaded soccer calendar. He has repeatedly warned that the lack of rest is damaging players’ health and performance. Just a month before the Oct. 28 award ceremony, Rodri tore his ACL during a match against Arsenal. While such injuries are common, his injury became a clear symbol of the physical toll on players due to the increasingly congested schedule.

Increased Games, More Injuries

Top footballers are now regularly playing over 60 games per season, including matches for both their clubs and national teams. As the game becomes faster and more intense, injuries are on the rise. Rodri’s injury is just one example of this growing concern. Moreover, players argue that FIFA’s newly expanded Club World Cup, which will run every four years, is pushing them to their limits. Alexander Bielefeld from FIFPRO commented, “Players are at breaking point… it’s actually too much.”

FIFA’s New Club World Cup

The newly revamped Club World Cup will be much larger than before. Instead of the previous 7 teams, it will feature 32 teams. Furthermore, the tournament will be held every four years, starting next summer in the United States. This will add a month-long competition on top of players’ regular domestic seasons. In addition to the increased games in the Champions League and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, the soccer calendar is quickly becoming overstuffed.

Rodri, in September, expressed his concern, saying, “It’s something that worries us because we are the guys who suffer.” He further added that players might be forced to refuse to play if this trend continues.

Player Frustration Grows

Other players share Rodri’s frustration. For instance, Raphael Varane, a member of France’s 2018 World Cup team, posted on social media, “Why are our opinions not being heard?” Varane, who retired from international play and later from all football due to injury, is not alone in his sentiments. Jude Bellingham, the England and Real Madrid midfielder, also described the schedule as “crazy.” He explained that the physical and mental strain is simply exhausting.

In fact, FIFPRO reports that many players now routinely play 60-70 matches a season, far exceeding the recommended limit of 55. For example, Julian Alvarez played 75 games last season, and Bruno Fernandes played 70 the year before.

Injury Rates Rise

The number of injuries in top European leagues continues to climb. The Men’s European Football Injury Index recorded 4,123 injuries last season. Moreover, Tony Strudwick, medical director for West Bromwich Albion, explained that the rise in injuries shows a mismatch between players’ physical limits and the number of games they are expected to play. He warned that too many games inevitably lead to burnout and injury.

Additionally, Strudwick pointed out that players are often reluctant to speak up about their exhaustion. “It takes a relatively brave person to do that,” he said.

FIFA Defends Its Schedule

FIFA, on the other hand, defends its decision to expand the Club World Cup. They believe the tournament will become one of the most popular and lucrative events in soccer. Featuring stars like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappe, FIFA insists that the tournament will be scheduled to ensure players have enough rest before the start of their domestic leagues.

However, FIFPRO disagrees. In October, the union filed a legal complaint against FIFA’s decision to add more competitions to the calendar. FIFA responded, accusing European clubs of hypocrisy, highlighting that many of these clubs organize exhibition matches during their summer breaks.

A Small Group of Players Is Most Affected

Gelson Fernandes, a FIFA official, argued that calendar congestion primarily affects a small group of players. He stated, “It’s a small group of players, that minimum percentage of them, which are affected.”

Overall, the soccer calendar is becoming increasingly crowded, and the strain on players is evident. Injuries are on the rise, and players are vocalizing their concerns. While FIFA defends its decisions, players and unions continue to call for changes to protect their health and well-being. It remains to be seen whether adjustments will be made to the schedule.

FIFA to Confirm Hosts for 2030 and 2034 World Cups

December 11, 2024, 10:38 am

FIFA is set to confirm the hosts for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups on Wednesday. Morocco, Spain, and Portugal will host the 2030 tournament, which will span three continents and six countries. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia will be the host for the 2034 World Cup.

Decision Expected to Be a Formality

In October last year, FIFA announced that there were no competing bids for either of the tournaments. As a result, Wednesday’s decision is expected to be a mere formality. It is anticipated that the vote will be accepted by “acclamation” rather than through a formal vote.

Norway to Reject Acclamation Process

However, the Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) has criticized FIFA’s bidding process. The NFF called it “flawed and inconsistent” and stated that it would vote against awarding the hosting rights by acclamation.

Details of the Bids

For the 2030 World Cup, Morocco, Spain, and Portugal will host the main event, with Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay staging special celebratory matches. This marks the tournament’s centenary, with Uruguay, the host of the first World Cup in 1930, playing a key role. Initially, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay had proposed a joint bid, but now only the three South American countries will host individual matches.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, becoming the second Middle Eastern country to do so after Qatar in 2022. While Australia and Indonesia had considered a joint bid, they dropped out before Saudi Arabia emerged as the sole bidder.

Criticism of the Bids

Despite the excitement, both bids have faced criticism. The 2030 World Cup, which will be held across three continents, has drawn backlash from climate activists. They argue that the increased travel will negatively impact the environment. In response, FIFA has promised to take steps to mitigate the environmental impact.

Similarly, the 2034 World Cup bid by Saudi Arabia has been criticized due to the country’s human rights record and extreme desert climate. Many of these concerns were also raised during Qatar’s World Cup. Reports suggest that the 2034 tournament may be scheduled for January to avoid the extreme heat, potentially conflicting with the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. FIFA, however, has clarified that the Saudi bid did not specify a proposed timing. The organization will work with stakeholders to find the optimal schedule.

Human Rights Debate

Furthermore, a World Cup in Saudi Arabia has ignited debate over the Kingdom’s human rights record. Amnesty International and the Sport & Rights Alliance (SRA) have urged FIFA to halt the process unless Saudi Arabia implements significant reforms. Critics accuse the country of using its investments in sports to “sportswash” its human rights record.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia denies these allegations. The Kingdom claims its laws are designed to protect national security. Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabia’s bid, stated that the country has made significant progress in improving human rights.

Sunil Chhetri Hopes For All Can Go Happy In Last India Game on June 6

May 17, 2024, 7:50 pm

Indian football icon Sunil Chhetri, amidst a flurry of attention following his announcement of retirement after an illustrious 19-year career, emphasizes the need to shift focus to India’s upcoming crucial match against Kuwait. Chhetri, revered as one of India’s greatest-ever players, stresses the importance of prioritizing the national team’s preparations for the World Cup Qualifiers.

While acknowledging the overwhelming admiration and flood of messages he has received, Chhetri urges for a swift transition back to discussions centered around the team’s objectives. With a pivotal match on the horizon, he directs attention towards the collective goal of securing victory against Kuwait to advance India’s chances in the qualifiers.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Chhetri expresses gratitude for his accomplishments, including 94 international goals, highlighting his pride in representing the nation for 150 games. He credits his success to the unwavering support of his family and the exceptional care provided by the national team’s medical staff, particularly acknowledging the pivotal role of Gigy George.

Looking ahead to his final match in Kolkata, a city close to his heart, Chhetri extends a heartfelt message to fans, urging them to rally behind the team as they strive for success. While his retirement marks the end of an era, Chhetri looks forward to spending time with his family before embarking on a new chapter with Bengaluru FC in July.

Lionel Messi continues golden streak, guides Inter Miami to Leagues Cup title

August 20, 2023, 11:22 am

Lionel Messi continued to shine for Inter Miami after leading his nation to its third FIFA World Cup victory the previous year. He scored in a nail-biting penalty shootout against Nashville SC to help his team win their first Leagues Cup title.

Messi extended his stellar run in American football with this. He has not only scored 10 goals in seven games for the US club, but he has also played in every game for his new team without losing. Messi scored in his 37th Cup final of his career, helping his club win its first Leagues Cup title. To the delight of his supporters, Messi gave his team the lead in the 23rd minute by dribbling past two defenders and launching the ball from the edge of the box into the top-left corner of the goal.

The first half ended with 1-0 scoreline in favour of Inter Miami.
In the 57th minute, Fafa Picault scored a fantastic equaliser for Nashville, a scoreline that they would maintain till the game was headed to penalties.
During the penalty shootout, Messi was also the first penalty taker. His team won the shootout by 10-9.

Now after this win, Messi will turn his attention to FC Cincinnati, who Inter Miami CF will play on Wednesday, August 23 in the semifinal of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
With this win, Messi has officially arrived in American football, with the Argentine superstar making his presence known since his headline-making move from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami was completed in July.

Lionel Messi continues goal-scoring streak & leads Inter Miami to Leagues Cup final

August 16, 2023, 2:24 pm

Lionel Messi, the FIFA World Cup champion from Argentina, continued his goal-scoring streak in the United States by assisting his Major League Soccer (MLS) team Inter Miami to a 4-1 victory over Philadelphia Union to advance to the Leagues Cup final.

With this win on Tuesday, Messi has made it nine goals in six matches for Inter Miami. He has scored in every match he has played for the club and is yet to lose a single match with his team.
In the 20th minute, Messi fired a long-range effort from 30 yards out and effortlessly netted the ball past three-time MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Andre Blake.
MLS also shared a footage of the goal by Messi, the biggest star in the US club football ever since his signing.

“What can’t he do?! Make it NINE goals in six games for Leo Messi,” tweeted MLS.
https://twitter.com/MLS/status/1691593877738643832
Besides Messi, Josef Martinez scored for IM, giving them the lead in the third minute before Messi’s 20th-minute goal doubled the lead.
Jordi Alba, Messi’s FC Barcelona teammate also scored one before the half-time whistle.

But Philadelphia remained in the game thanks to Alejandro Bedoya’s goal in the 73rd minute. The winning goal for Inter Miami came from David Ruiz in the 84th minute. With this victory, Messi’s team will play Nashville SC in the championship game on August 19. Despite Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United FC occupying the second spot with seven goals, Messi has widened his advantage at the top of the scoring charts. Since his sensational transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Inter Miami was finalized in July, Argentina’s Lionel Messi has made his presence known in American football.

FIFA Women’s World Cup: France stun Brazil to move into top place in group F

July 30, 2023, 5:07 pm

France conquered Brazil 2-1 in the group stage match in the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday. In another encounter, Sweden outplayed Italy by a big margin, 5-0.

After this win, France have moved to the top of the group with four points, while Brazil are in third spot, Jamaica and Panama are the other two teams in group F.

France dominated the proceedings in the first half; they consistently attacked their opponent’s goal mouth, and the European nation scored twice in the match.

Eugenie Le Sommer broke the deadlock and scored in the 17^th minute of the match with a brilliant header. France kept pressure, which paid off when Wendie Renard stretched the lead for the winning side. Brazil tried their best to come back into the match. Debora Cristiane de Oliveira scored a consolation goal in the 58^th minute of the match.

In the second half, Brazil’s game plan changed, and they started taking more chances. However, the French defended superbly and never allowed the South American giant to move freely. In the end, France defeated Brazil 2-1 and grabbed the top position in group F.

The French women hit 19 shots on the Brazilian goal, out of which seven were on target, and their possession of the ball during the game was 54 per cent.

Meanwhile, Brazil took 11 shots, and only two were on target. Their ball possession in the match was 46 per cent.

AIFF, FIFA discuss over Talent Development Scheme for Indian Football

May 4, 2023, 4:22 pm

FIFA representatives are now in India for a three-day meeting with the AIFF to discuss how to implement the Talent Development Scheme (TDS) in the nation. FIFA is the governing organisation of football worldwide. The former Arsenal boss will subsequently travel to the subcontinent to examine its progress. The FIFA delegates and AIFF representatives are currently working out the specifics of the TDS’s implementation in India.

The AIFF President Chaubey opened the meeting by expressing gratitude to the FIFA representatives for sharing their knowledge with India. “The FIFA TDS is a top priority for us in India, and we are delighted to use FIFA’s and Arsene Wenger’s experience to develop a pool of outstanding football players in our nation. The FIFA TDS will be essential for us to realise our football potential in accordance with our “Vision 2047,” which is high on our priority list.

The Technical Department has been branched into different verticals: grassroots, player development, talent development, coach education, sports science and medicine, analytics, and youth development.

The FIFA delegates, after meeting the AIFF president and secretary general, had a lengthy discussion with the Federation’s Technical Department. Vincent Subramanian, the Federation’s chief technical officer, discussed the plans under ‘Vision 2047’ and ‘Target 2026″ and their means of implementation. AIFF Technical Director Syed Sabir Pasha is also set to join the meeting on Friday, May 5, after the completion of an ongoing workshop in Kuala Lumpur.

FIFA delegates were also apprised of the Technical Department and its plans under ‘Vision 2047’ and ‘Target 2026’, which are to have at least 3.5 lakh active coaches in India to broaden the game in the country. Efforts are also being made to have coaching instructors in every state across all levels, competitive coaches, attain leadership status in coach education with research, and put coach education in sync with player development.

The ‘Blue Cubs’ programme is also close to the heart of the Federation, as it plans to use the same to identify, promote, and develop elite players in top clubs and academies to groom them for junior and senior international levels at a later stage. An Elite Grassroots programme has also been planned by the Technical Department, which aims to have 100 million participants under the banner of ‘Vision 2047’.

‘Project Diamond’ also aims to further develop the elite youth players, once identified, with the Federation and clubs working in unison to help the footballers reach a higher level. The project also plans for a three-tier tournament at the youth level, which will ensure that the players get to play competitive matches all year round.

Arteta’s Arsenal make stunning comeback against West Ham

December 28, 2022, 2:07 pm

After the 2022 FIFA World Cup concluded, Premier League’s top spot race recommenced. On matchday 17, Arsenal made a stunning comeback in the second half to extend their lead in the Premier League standings to seven points following a 3-1 win over West Ham on the very night which saw the former Gunners boss Arsene Wenger return to the Emirates Stadium for the first time since his departure in 2018. Now, Arsenal has a total of 40 points to their name, having won 13 of their 15 games, losing only one and drawing the other one. In 16 matches, West Ham has won only four, lost 10, and drawn two.

They are in the 16th position in the table with a total of 14 points. After William Saliba brought Jarrod Bowen inside the box, West Ham got a chance at the goal. Said Benrahma wasted no time in converting the penalty into a goal to give their side a 1-0 lead in the 27th minute. At half-time, the score line read 1-0 in favour of the visitors. Gunners needed to respond strongly in the second half. They did just that as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli helped the hosts make a quick comeback, scoring two goals in the 53rd minute and 58th minute to take the lead. Thirteen minutes into the second half, the smile was back on Wenger’s face. In the 69th minute of the match, Eddie Nketiah, rounded off a brilliant night with a superb goal, tripling the lead which lasted till the end of the game. With a dominant turnaround at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal managed to acquire a possession rate of 67% along with 657 passes throughout the match.

Mikel Arteta, the club’s current manager, thanked Wenger for coming. “It’s a special day. Thank you so much for him coming and hopefully walking through the building he is going to feel everything that everybody thinks of him, everything that he left here, but also his presence is something that has to be very attached to this football club. So, thank you for doing that because it means a lot to everybody at the club,” Arteta was quoted as saying by Sky Sports. Arteta also expressed happiness with his team’s performance saying that the home crowd generated a lot of belief and energy for his team, which showed “a lot of composure and real quality, but also real clarity to understand what the game demanded, and they executed that really well.”

On his team’s title ambitions, the manager said, “What I tell the players is we have to focus on us. We cannot control what the opponents are going to do, how good they are going to become or how many points they are going to get or drop, so we have to focus on our performance, what we are doing every day and what has brought us here. It is not a coincidence, so we need to keep doing what we are doing. We overcame a challenge and a difficult moment on top of injuries that we had with Jesus, Smith Rowe and Tomiyasu out. The team still believed and played to the level that they did again.” Arsenal will be playing Brighton on New Year’s Eve. While West Ham will host Brentford on Friday.

France or Argentina, who will grab the trophy ?

December 18, 2022, 2:22 pm

France and Argentina will face off in the FIFA World Cup final, making it the largest football game to take place at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, in the past four years. France and Argentina will square off in their second straight FIFA World Cup final. Kylian Mbappe will play for France. Last time, the opposition to Les Blues was Luka Modric’s Croatia; this time, it is Messi and his teammates, who have won the Ballon d’Or seven times.

In Messi and company’s opening game of the Qatar tournament, Saudi Arabia ended Argentina’s 36-game unbeaten record. However, they made a stunning comeback and are now just one victory away from winning the World Championship. Argentina must defeat the defending champions, who are aiming for a historically high number of consecutive World Cup victories for their nation, in order to claim the title. Notably, France has participated in more FIFA World Cup finals than any other country over the past 24 years.

This will be Argentina’s fifth game at the Lusail Stadium in this tournament (out of a total of seven games). The Albicelestes’ opening match against Saudi Arabia was lost at the same location. Additionally, Lionel Scaloni’s guys have continued to win there ever since. With the exception of the World Cup, which is the biggest of them all, Messi has accomplished nearly every item on his football bucket list.

In this competition, Les Bleus will play in the Lusail Stadium for the first time, and they’ll want to make a lasting impression. Thanks to their 2-0 victory over Morocco, they will be the first defending champions in 24 years to play in a World Cup final. The best thing for France is that its two main players, Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud, have both been in excellent form and have a chance to win the Ballon d’Or by scoring in the championship game.

France beat Morocco; final clash with Argentina

December 15, 2022, 10:27 am

In the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022, France entered the final. France’s star player Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani’s goals helped France beat Morocco.

The second semi-finals were played here at the Al Bayt Stadium. France is set to clash with Argentina in the finals of FIFA World Cup 2022.

Meanwhile, France started the game aggressively and in the fifth minute of the match, France took the lead of 1-0. After the 79th minute, France once again goal and won the second semi-final with a convincing 2-0 margin.

Earlier on Wednesday Argentina entered the final of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Argentina’s two-star players Julian Alvarez’s brace and Lionel Messi’s goal helped Argentina beat Croatia 3-0.

Moreover, Argentina’s starting line-up Midfielder Leandro Paredes and defender Nicolas Tagliafico were brought. Croatia started aggressively and in the 16th minute Dejan Lovren’s header came but it was too high with the help of Josip Juranovic’s cross.

However, on 18 December Argentina star footballer Lionel Messi will be playing his last FIFA World Cup game.

Talking to the media Messi said, “I feel very happy, to be able to achieve this, to finish my World Cup journey by playing my last game in a final.”

Furthermore, in the finals of FIFA World Cup 2022, France will now lock horns against Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

FIFA WC 2022: 32 teams set to fight for the prize, Qatar and Ecuador to face off in opener

November 20, 2022, 2:35 pm

Beginning on Sunday, the most awaited FIFA World Cup 2022 will take place in Qatar.

In this once every four years football spectacular, 32 teams will be vying for greatness. Teams include hosts Qatar, Ecuador, Senegal, the Netherlands, England, Iran, USA, Wales, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland, France, Australia, Denmark, Tunisia, Spain, Costa Rica, Germany, Japan, Belgium, Canada, Morocco, and Croatia, as well as Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon, Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, and South Korea.

The reigning champion is France, which defeated Croatia in the championship match to win their second title in 2018. They will be attempting to retain their title in the face of elite opposition from the aforementioned teams.

For Argentina striker Lionel Messi, who is regarded as one of the game’s all-time greats, it will be his final World Cup tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo too is very likely to wear the Portuguese colours one final time.

The Middle East is hosting the event for the first time this year. In order to avoid the desert heat in Qatar during the summers, the World Cup is being held for the first time outside the customary June–July period.

The 64 matches of this tournament will be played in eight stadiums throughout Qatar.

Starting at 9:30 p.m. IST, Qatar and Ecuador will square off in the first game of the season.

Sports 18 will broadcast live matches throughout the competition at 12:30 AM, 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM, and 9:30 PM IST as well.

The tournament’s knockout round will start with the Round of 16 beginning on December 3.

The semifinals will begin on December 14 after the quarterfinals conclude on December 9.

At the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Lusail, on December 18, the championship match will take place.

Groups:
Group A: Qatar (H), Ecuador, Senegal, and the Netherlands
Group B: England, Iran, the United States, and Wales
Group C: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Poland
Group D: France, Australia, Denmark, Tunisia
Group E: Spain, Costa Rica, Germany, and Japan
Group F: Belgium, Canada, Morocco, Croatia
Group G: Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon
Group H: Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, and South Korea

A giant cutout of Lionel Messi has appeared on the streets of Kerala ahead of the FIFA World Cup

November 3, 2022, 11:55 am

The FIFA World Cup 2022 kicks off in a few days, and fans all over the world are getting excited. While different people celebrate the matches in different ways, a group of boys from Kerala have installed a giant cutout of Lionel Messi in their region. Huge cutouts of Argentina’s Lionel Messi placed in the middle of a river in Kerala have gotten a lot of attention online. A tall cutout stands in the middle of a river in Kozhikode, and a video of devoted fans lugging the massive cutout through the community has gone viral online.

A group of young men can be seen in the video picking up the large cutout and walking around with it. One of them also has an Argentina flag and a sign that says, “Argentina fans Pullavor.” This video was shared on Twitter by the user @Rlzw4n. The user captioned the post, “Behind the Scene Messi #VamosArgentina.”

This video has been viewed over two lakh times since it was shared. The video has received over 4000 likes and numerous comments. “Awww, take love for all people involved with this great work,” one person wrote in the Tweet’s comments. “Ronaldo can have his fans, but he will never have the streets like Messi,” another person said. “This is amazing,” a third person said.