#and it's however matches argentina has left

[slicesofapple]

After the exhibition match, even more fan mail starts pouring in for Oikawa, a large proportion of it of an amorous nature. His social media accounts are flooded with poems, praise, and marriage proposals, and the PR department in Argentina informs him that there is what seems to be a literal ton of actual letters waiting for him on his return.

It doesn’t bother Kuroo. (Well, not that  much, anyway). He’s used to people thirsting after his boyfriend. And right now, while he’s got his Tooru safely in his arms, all the attention seems pretty ridiculous.

-------

When, however, Kuroo comes home later that night, it is to an Oikawa who is standing in an oddly stiff manner and holding something equally stiffly out in front of him as though it is... unsavory, to say the least.

Kuroo walks further into the apartment, squinting. It’s... some kind of paper?

When he gets closer, he rears back automatically and holds his nose against the horrible, overpowering scent of synthetic lavender.

Ah. A letter, doused in perfume. And, yes, those must be kisses all over the envelope. 

“What?” he says. It’s not the first time he’s seen something like this. He’s just surprised it made its way through the mail to his apartment. Maybe it’s gotten out that Oikawa is staying with him? No wonder he’s annoyed. This probably means they should expect more of the same. Kuroo is just opening his mouth to suggest (nasally - he’s still got a tight grip on his nose) that he get a P.O. box, when Oikawa clears his throat (unnecessarily loudly) and begins to read.

“Dear Tetsurou,” he proclaims, following the words with a dramatic pause and a raised eyebrow at his boyfriend.

Kuroo frowns. Tetsurou?

Oikawa returns his eyes to the page and resumes reading. “The night we spent together was pure heaven.”

Kuroo’s frown deepens. The night we spent together?  What???!!

“I can’t stop thinking about you. About your strong, brawny arms around me.”

Kuroo’s eyes shoot up. What the hell?

“Your musky aroma.”

“My... my what?” Kuroo squawks.

Oikawa’s voice gains both volume and speed as he continues. 

“The way you carried me to the bed like I weighed less than 60 pounds.”

"That’s... oddly specific,” mutters Kuroo, his mind still reeling.

“The way your tongue tangled passionately with mine. The way you took me, over and over again, leaving me sobbing and breathless. All my nerve endings were quivering with pleasure.” At this, Oikawa apparently can’t resist looking up and saying, with emphasis, “Quivering, Tetsurou. That’s how you left her.” His eyes drop once more as he continues. “Every detail from that night is etched into my soul.”

Etched into my soul?!!

Okay. That’s it. Kuroo has had enough. He holds up his free hand and says, commandingly, “Stop!”

To his surprise, Oikawa does stop reading. But he also takes the opportunity to brandish a photo under Kuroo’s nose. When Oikawa’s hand stops waving about long enough for Kuroo to actually focus on it, he can see that it is of a very scantily clad woman posed provocatively on her bed, drinking something using a very long, very pink straw. 

Kuroo’s jaw drops and his eyes goggle.

Oikawa says, “This fine specimen of humanity is asking to spend eternity with you after the magical night you had together.”

After a very long, stunned silence, Kuroo bursts into laughter – wild, hysterical, laughter.  It is as though a pack of hyenas has stormed the apartment.  

And Kuroo finds he can’t stop. He is soon bent over his knees, braying helplessly, tears pouring out of his eyes.  

Until, Oikawa, too, lets out a snorting giggle.

They both end up collapsed onto the couch, weak with laughter.

Once Kuroo can talk again, he pokes Oikawa in the stomach. “Now you know how it feels.”

Oikawa sighs. “I suppose so. I was surprised at how much it bothered me.”

Kuroo smirks. “You just don’t want to share my musky aroma with my hordes of delusional admirers.”

Oikawa rolls over so he is on top of Kuroo, nose to nose. “Damn straight I don’t,” he growls, before passionately tangling tongues with his boyfriend.  

#oikuroo #kurooi #jealous oikawa #oikawa #kuroo #attempt at humor #haikyuu!! #crack #fan mail #of the bad sort

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

In Brazil, Lula’s Global Focus Is Distracting Him From Regional Opportunities

One hundred days into Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s new term in office, Brazil’s president has lived up to expectations from before the 2022 general election, with no major surprises. Lula is returning to familiar policy approaches from his previous stint in office from 2003 to 2010, in an effort to restore Brazil’s regional and global leadership, which his predecessor, former President Jair Bolsonaro, largely abandoned. He has already reclaimed Brazil’s active role at the United Nations and as a voice on climate diplomacy, and has made a priority of restoring warm relations between Brazil and China.

The focus on foreign affairs is understandable, given the difficult headwinds Brazil faces on its domestic politics and economy. But those same domestic conditions may eventually constrain his foreign-policy ambitions.

Lula’s first two trips overseas after Brazil’s presidential election last October were nothing but positive. Before his inauguration in January 2023, as president-elect, he traveled to Egypt to participate in the U.N. Climate Change Conference and other climate-related meetings. Those engagements helped set the narrative that Brazil would no longer be a climate pariah, as it had been under Bolsonaro, and would once again begin to exercise global leadership on climate change. For his first trip abroad after his inauguration as president, Lula traveled to Argentina and Uruguay. At the summit of CELAC—the regional organization for all of Latin America and the Caribbean—in Argentina, he was the star of the show. His attendance revived discussions of South American integration, including the potential reestablishment of the South American regional grouping UNASUR as well as a proposal for a South American common currency. The latter is probably unrealistic, but it demonstrates an ambitious vision for the continent that had gone missing in recent years.

However, Lula’s return to the global scene has not been all positive. His dusted-off foreign policy playbook has brought the usual, familiar criticisms: that Lula is too friendly toward dictators, and timid about speaking out against human rights abuses and sovereignty violations by countries like Russia, China and Iran. In Latin America, he coddles left-wing authoritarians like Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, with whom he shares a personal connection due to their battles against right-wing dictatorships decades ago. In contrast, Lula is swift to denounce or criticize leaders from the U.S. and Europe when he has disagreements with them. For many, the fact that Lula has condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for his invasion of Ukraine less frequently and less virulently than he did then-U.S. President George W. Bush over the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 betrays an anti-U.S. ideology.

And yet, to believe Lula is anti-U.S. or pro-Russia doesn’t match reality.

Continue reading.

#brazil #politics #brazilian politics #foreign policy #mod nise da silveira #image description in alt

[maxs-corner45]

Disaster in Brazils World Cup Stadiums

The World Cup in Brazil in 2014 was one of the most festive tournaments in world cup history, with a number of impressive stadiums hosting matches. These stadiums were designed to showcase the best of Brazil's architecture and engineering, with many incorporating elements of the country's rich cultural heritage. One of the most iconic stadiums at the World Cup in Brazil was the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. This stadium has a seating capacity of over 78,000 and has hosted some of the most memorable matches in football history, including the 1950 World Cup Final. For the 2014 tournament, the Maracanã underwent a major renovation, with new seating arrangements, a new roof, and other upgrades that made it one of the most impressive facilities in the world. Another notable stadium was the Arena de São Paulo, which had a seating capacity of over 65,000 and was built specifically for the World Cup. Other notable stadiums that hosted matches during the World Cup in Brazil include the Arena Amazonia in Manaus, the Estádio Nacional in Brasília, and the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador. After the World Cup, these stadiums have continued to serve a range of purposes. Some have become the homes of local football teams, while others have been used for concerts, cultural events, and other large-scale gatherings. However, there have been concerns about the high costs of maintaining some of these facilities, which has led to debates about their long-term sustainability. The mood has changed now. Brazilians have not benefited from the tournament commented one high-ranking Brazilian “There has been no legacy for them. The World Cup still makes them angry. There is regret that we even staged it.” While infrastructure costs were massive, the tournament left several soulless bowls dotted across the country that was once called football stadiums. The São Paulo Arena, now used by Corinthians, is one of the few success stories to come away from the World Cup. Other than Neymar’s curtain-raiser, this was where Luis Suárez’s double sealed England’s group-stage fate, Ángel Di María sunk Switzerland with a late extra-time winner in the last 16, and where Maxi Rodríguez fired Argentina into the final with a thunderous shoot-out spot-kick.

Source: https://thesefootballtimes.co/2019/05/06/from-the-beautiful-game-to-birthday-parties-the-brutal-reality-of-what-happened-to-brazils-world-cup-stadiums/

#brazil #abandoned #protest #outrage

[putonmyfavoriteshow]

This is probably just me being self-indulgent but here's my explanation of my latest hyper-fixation if you've kept following me thru this and have no idea what it is and are curious to know: "DCLA" stands for Disney Channel Latin America aka Disney Channel series that were originated out of Latin America, specifically Argentina, and more specifically what I personally refer to as "The Big 3"

The Big 3 are Violetta (2012-2015), Soy Luna(2016-2018), and Bia(2018-2020). These shows have been internationally popular for years (especially the first two) since besides Latin America, Disney Channel aired these shows in many countries across Europe, Africa, and Asia.

They're also considered to be telenovelas which means they follow a format of about 80 episodes per season and each episode basically picks up where the last left off. Violetta and Soy Luna have 3 seasons, Soy Luna's last season is 60 episodes, and Bia has 60 episodes per it's 2 seasons (they did not get renewed for a 3rd which was likely due to Covid + the move from network to Disney+). All of them are very music focused and consist of originals and covers within the show, soundtracks, and world tours that the casts have been on (Bia was unable to tour due to Covid). Each involve a mystery-drama surrounding family. And of course, there's your typical teen drama surrounding friends and romance. Unfortunately after Disney Channel has moved a majority of it's focus to streaming on Disney+, this format has been discontinued. However, D+LA greenlit a ton of 10-episode similar type series for the service with familiar actors from the aforementioned shows. These also have been shot in new locations as opposed to just Buenos Aires (which is the main location for Violetta, Soy Luna, & Bia). And seemed to be dubbed as well as subbed in multiple languages. (Violetta is sufficiently dubbed, Soy Luna and Bia don't have English dubs) Personally I watch with subs since it helps me with the language I am NOT fluent in, matches lip flap, and I just like hearing the character's real voices. There has been some debate over which of "The Big 3" is "the best" but personally I think they all have something to offer that makes them uniquely great. Also, I think nostalgia is a major factor to which show fans gravitated towards (many watched these shows when they first aired in their own country). Some of us have only discovered through Disney Plus and I do think order of viewing can sway opinion. And each have some problematic material that is worth criticizing - however, I do think they've eliminated most of these elements with every new series they've created (ie. consent, misogyny, & racism). But it's definitely worth noting and calling out!

Generally tone-wise I'd say Violetta is campy as all get out. Bia takes a more serious and mature route. And Soy Luna kind of toes the line between the two.

Disney does have a few other novelas and series such as Alex&Co (Italian music series), O11CE (Novela but NOT a musical show), Juacas (Brazilian series, no music- also not sure if dubbed or subbed in English?). Netflix has a few musical telenovela-esque series but shorter format (Go!,Cielo Grande). Nickelodeon also has similar musical telenovelas that do have the same longer episode format as well but they're not as easily accessible (Kally's Mashup, Club 57). And probably many more adjacent to the Big 3 to keep the interest going!

#dcla #soy luna #violetta #bia #haley explains it all (sort of) #thank you for coming to my ted talk #if you read this you're required to request Disney+ US to add s2 of Bia #or add Bia if it's not in your country at all #I'm pretty sure Canada doesn't even have it i'm so sorry neighbors #VPNs are your friends

[stateofsport211]

Argentina Dramatically Clinched the Third World Cup, Defeated France in A Penalty Shootout Despite the Comeback

Kylian Mbappe (left) and Lionel Messi (right), one of the major key players for France and Argentina, respectively (📸 Getty Images via BBC)

A thrilling final was delivered in the classic match between France and Argentina. They last met in the Round of 16 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where France defeated Argentina 4-3 to advance to the quarterfinals, and eventually become the World Champions. Knowing their last meeting and their current form, they were expected to enter another rollercoaster match, which precisely happened this year.

There is a possibility of this match ending not in regular time, which happened because of every equalizing goal. Here goes how everything unfolded.

The Regular and Extra Times: Always Scoring, Always Equalizing

The first several minutes of the regular time was filled with Argentinean dominance, where they mostly attacked France and left no room for the latter to even respond. One of those early chances came from Julian Alvarez, where the ball was saved by Hugo Lloris; followed by Alexis Mac Allister and Angel di Maria, but their chances were not materialized. On the other hand, France had their own chances: there was one coming from the middle where it was saved by Emiliano Martinez, while Olivier Giroud's header several moments after went too wide. In between, Argentina kept initiating their own chances.

Lionel Messi's first goal from the penalties (📸 The Guardian)

Argentina was granted a penalty after Ousmane Dembele fouled Angel di Maria in the penalty box by making a contact from behind, and Szymon Marciniak (the referee) pointed out to the spot, hence the penalty. Lionel Messi then executed the penalty perfectly at 22' for Argentina to lead 1-0. Their full-scale aggressiveness continued when by the middle of the second half, they had 2 on-target chances out of 5 to French no-chances-at-all. Angel di Maria's second goal was caught off-guard at 35' when Messi flicked the ball towards Julian Alvarez, sending Mac Allister away before di Maria received the ball and went solo to convert the goal, breaking the French defense lines. France made interesting substitutions before the end of the first half with the entrance of Marcus Thuram and Randal Kolo Muani to replace Giroud and Dembele, but the Argentinean 2-0 lead still stood at the end.

Kylian Mbappe celebrated after scoring one of his goals in this match (📸 Deutsche Welle)

In the second half, Argentina kept itself in an offensive position, when several chances were recorded, one of which was saved by Hugo Lloris. One of their closest chances came from Messi (where the ball landed outside of the goalpost) and Mac Allister (where he tried to break the French defensive lines, only for Lloris to save the ball again). Take into account how France raised their level trying to counter-attack Argentina when Kylian Mbappe had a shot on target at 70'. However, Nicolas Otamendi's drag-down to Randal Kolo Muani in the penalty box resulted in a French penalty, which Mbappe executed perfectly for France to get back in the game. As a result, Mbappe became the youngest person to score in 2 World Cup finals.

It might have looked like a carriage, but Mbappe caught the Argentinean defense department off-guard from the way he broke it down, where he passed through Messi and several other players before cracking the ball on E. Martinez's ball for an equalizer. Another "whether or not this foul resulted in a penalty" discourse then arose in the injury time when Kingsley Coman was fouled near the left corner flag, followed by contact between Eduardo Camavinga, Adrien Rabiot, and Emiliano Martinez, but the match played on. Several minutes after, the regular time was finished with a 2-2 draw, hence the game carried on to the extra time.

The goals of the extra time: Lionel Messi's goal for the Argentinean initial lead (left; 📸 The New York Times) and Kylian Mbappe's second penalty execution (right; 📸 USA Today FTW)

The extra time has proven itself to be a unique kind of rollercoaster. While several intriguing substitutions were made (e.g. Wesley Fofana replacing Rabiot for France and Lautaro Martinez + Leandro Paredes substituted J. Alvarez and Rodrigo de Paul for Argentina), several other chances were caught after for the match to heat up, mostly for Argentina: Marcos Acuña's cross went too wide, and Lautaro Martinez fired his on-target shot only for Dayot Upamecano to defend the ball, hence the French corner (which carried through the possession). Toward the end of the first half (of the extra time), Lautaro fired another shot behind the goal net, while it was perfect in construction with regards to the preceding passes.

The second half of the extra time delivered the portion that might have summarized the regular time: one would equalize when one scored a goal. Messi started with an extremely close chance before it got converted several minutes later with his right leg, even though there were concerns about this goal being offside in construction. A preceding handball when Gonzalo Montiel tried to defend (but it touched his forearm instead) enabled Mbappe to execute his second penalty, resulting in his ability to score a hat-trick and France getting back to the game thanks to his electrifying executions.

Toward the end of the extra time, both teams had their chances, but nothing got converted. Kolo Muani fell short in his attempt (and another French chance went too far away), while the "game of chances" ended the extra time with Mbappe's shot saved by E. Martinez responded by Lautaro's shot went too wide in execution. Even with Mbappe's three goals and his leadership to get France back in the match (and match Argentina's level in a similarly aggressive manner, capitalizing on the penalties when it mattered), the Argentinean counter-offensive response and balanced defending brought the final to the further distance: the penalty shootout.

The Exciting Penalty Shootout and the Awards: Mostly Argentinean Sweep (except the Top Scorer)

The penalty shootout proceedings (📸 self-illustration) and Lionel Messi lifted the trophy for Argentina during the awarding ceremony (📸 Associated Press via NBC)

The penalty shootout was equally thrilling as the regular and extra time. The first turn started with Mbappe and Messi scoring for each team, before Coman's penalty kick was saved by E. Martinez in the second turn. Paulo Dybala managed to score another one, followed by Tchouameni missing the ball too far and wide for the Argentinean 2-1 lead by the end of the second turn. In the subsequent two turns, Leandro Paredes and Randal Kolo Muani scored for their respective teams before Montiel sealed the title for Argentina after strengthening the lead 4-2 by the end of the penalty shootout.

With this victory, Argentina won the World Cup for the third time (after 1970 & 1986) and marked Messi's first World Cup title. What made the title sweeter is how he shared this with Angel di Maria since they were teammates in 2005 and how he decided to continue playing international football to the best of his ability despite this World Cup likely becoming his last.

The FIFA World Cup individual awards recipients, from left to right: Enzo Fernandez - Lionel Messi - Emiliano Martinez - Kylian Mbappe (📸 Reuters via India Today)

Furthermore, there was an Argentinean sweep in the players' individual awards: apart from Mbappe becoming the top scorer with 8 goals, Lionel Messi also received the Golden Ball Award as the best player of the tournament (for the second time since 2014). E. Martinez received the Golden Glove Award for his two heroic penalty shootout performances (both against the Netherlands and France, which if without the latter, there could be a debate between him and Dominik Livakovic as the recipient), while Enzo Fernandez received the Young Player Award for his influence, especially against Mexico.

Within the fans, not only the party exploded the afternoon in the center of Buenos Aires (and the rest of Argentina in general) but also "affirmed" Messi and Mbappe's status in the fan-induced goat debates, with the former being "coronated" by this World Cup victory. A tweet from 2015 emerged when a fan predicted Argentina to lift the World Cup and how it would be Lionel Messi's first World Cup title. After the competition, the French team was consoled by their President, Emmanuel Macron.

The domestic leagues will return sometime next week, with some countries already having their leagues back (and some already did an "exhibition" or their friendly matches). For the other World Cups: the FIFA Women's World Cup will be held in the middle of next year in Australia & New Zealand, as well as FIFA U-20 (Men's) World Cup in Indonesia in a similar timeframe. At the end of the day, while this achievement is being celebrated this week, the football keeps footballing, the ball is round, and any other things can still happen. FIFA World Cup will be back in 2026 with North America (Canada-United States-Mexico) hosting.

Until then, one of the biggest football competitions in the world! The 64th match, the "match of the matches" of this year, was complete. This match surely goes down in the history books as one of the most unbelievable matches of all-time, with the dynamicity of the final and how dramatic the turntables were.

#fifa world cup 2022 #fifa world cup #world cup qatar 2022 #football news #football updates #third place play-offs #knock out stage #qatar 2022 #world cup #qatar world cup #argentina #france #argentina national team #france national team

[current24news]

Goal after returning from injury, Di Maria cried

Goal after returning from injury, Di Maria cried

Goal after injury, Di Maria cried Argentina had a dream start to the World Cup final. Di Maria scored after Messi. He has not played in several matches due to a catastrophic injury. Di Maria couldn’t hide his tears after scoring in the final. Angel Di Maria was left out of Argentina’s starting XI after being sidelined against Poland with an injury. However, this forward was back in the starting…

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#Argentina #Di Maria #FIFA world cup #Football world cup #Goal #Qatar World Cup #world cup 2022

[mwplanet]

FIFA: The World’s Biggest Competition Returns

The FIFA World Cup is officially underway

By Franchesca D.

Some of the best players in this year’s World Cup

Photo via FIFA

The 2022 FIFA World Cup began on November 20, 2022 in Qatar, and already holds the world’s rapt attention. 

For those unfamiliar with the FIFA World Cup, it is the biggest tournament for international soccer held every four years. It is one of the most watched sports competitions around the world, with more than 3.5 billion viewers during the 2018 World Cup and the 2022 World Cup expected to reach an audience of 5 billion. 

The FIFA World Cup Qualifiers is a lengthy process that occurs years before the final tournament. Each of FIFA’s six regional soccer confederations holds preliminary tournaments and qualifier matches. The six FIFA confederations are UEFA (Europe), CONMEBOL (South America), CONCACAF (North, Central America and the Caribbean), AFC (Asia plus Australia), CAF (Africa), and OFC (Oceania). Teams in each league play each other for points; a win is worth three points, a draw is worth one point and a loss is worth no points. The teams with the most points at the end of the qualifying period advance to the World Cup to represent their confederation. However, this means that not all confederations may be represented. 

Now the World Cup. The teams are split into eight groups of four teams, with groups lettered A to H. Each group was created through a random draw out of four points in April, with teams placed in pots based on their FIFA world ranking. The top two teams of each group advance to the round of 16. The winner of each group plays the runner-up of the succeeding letter group until there are only 8 teams left. For example, the first seed of Group A would play the second seed of Group B. In the case where two teams are tied in points, the first-place team is the team with the highest point differential. The knockout rounds continue  to the quarterfinals, where eight teams battle for a place as one of the four teams in the semi-finals. The top two teams from the semi-finals play against each other in the finals for the FIFA World Cup trophy and the title of FIFA World Champions. 

There are many strong contenders in this year’s tournament, with Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and the reigning champion France all having strong chances of winning. The top soccer players are also scheduled to make appearances with their respective teams, including stars like Kylian Mbappe (France), Lionel Messi (Argentina), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), and Neymar (Brazil) showcasing their skills. With this World Cup being the final tournament of beloved players like Ronaldo and Messi (and possibly Neymar), fans and players alike are tuning in to watch them play one last time. 

The tournament so far has seen some shocking results, specifically Argentina’s 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia. Argentina was higher ranked and a team favoured to win the Cup; viewers expected an easy win against Saudi Arabia on November 22. However, when Saudi Arabia, a team expected to lose, won against Argentina and fan-favourite Messi, it became one of the biggest upsets in the tournament. 

Canada has also created history. This is the first Canadian team to play in the World Cup since 1986 in Mexico and the second time Canada qualified for the World Cup in history. They played against Belgium and Croatia, with a 1-0 and 4-1 loss respectively. In their Croatia game, Canada made history as they scored their first goal in their World Cup history. Canada recently played against Morocco, hoping for a win, but lost 2-1. Unfortunately, Canada will not advance to the knockout round of 16. 

Canada star Alphonso Davies celebrates Canada’s first World Cup goal

Photo via CBC

The countries advancing to the round of 16 are Argentina, the USA, France, Poland, the Netherlands, Croatia, England, Senegal, Morocco, Japan, Spain, Portugal, Australia, Switzerland, South Korea, and Brazil. As of December 5th, Argentina, France, the Netherlands, Croatia and England are moving on to the quarter finals, eliminating Australia, the USA, Poland, Senegal, and Japan in the process.

Despite all that has already occurred, the FIFA World Cup is far from over, and fans from around the world are anticipatedly waiting and watching to see who comes out on top. 

#franchesca dairo #sports #fifa world cup #mary ward #mary ward planet #fifa #canada world cup

[craigwarme]

Biggest Moments in Soccer History

Biggest Moments in Soccer History https://ift.tt/EeI9avq Soccer, known as football in many parts of the world, has witnessed countless iconic moments throughout its rich history. From stunning goals to historic victories, these moments have left an indelible mark on the sport and captivated fans worldwide.  Here are some of the most significant moments in soccer history that have become legendary in the hearts of fans. “The Goal of the Century” (1986):  Just four minutes after the “Hand of God” goal, Maradona scored the greatest goal ever in a World Cup. Before slotting the ball into the net, he dribbled past five English players, showcasing his exceptional skill and control. This remarkable individual effort sealed Argentina’s victory and solidified Maradona’s status as a soccer legend. The Miracle of Istanbul (2005): In the UEFA Champions League final between Liverpool and AC Milan, Liverpool trailed 3-0 at halftime. However, they staged a remarkable comeback, scoring three goals in the second half to force extra time and eventually win the match in a penalty shootout. This stunning comeback is remembered as the “Miracle of Istanbul” and remains one of the greatest comebacks in soccer history. Zinedine Zidane’s World Cup Final Performance (1998):  Zinedine Zidane delivered a masterclass performance in the 1998 FIFA World Cup match between France and Brazil. He scored two goals with his head, leading France to a resounding 3-0 victory and their first-ever World Cup title. Zidane’s dominance in the final made him a national hero and cemented his place as one of the game’s greatest midfielders. The “Hand of God” (1986):  Similar to Maradona’s infamous goal, Luis Suarez’s handball during the quarter-final match between Uruguay and Ghana in the 2010 FIFA World Cup was another defining moment. In the last play of the match, Suarez blocked a goal-bound shot with his hand, resulting in a red card. Ghana missed the subsequent penalty, and Uruguay eventually won in a penalty shootout, denying Ghana a historic place in the semi-finals. Germany’s 7-1 Victory over Brazil (2014):  In the 2014 FIFA World Cup semi-final match, Germany produced a stunning display of attacking football, dismantling Brazil with a 7-1 victory. The result sent shockwaves through soccer and remains the most significant defeat in Brazilian soccer history. Leicester City’s Premier League Triumph (2016):  In one of the most remarkable underdog stories in soccer history, Leicester City defied all odds to win the English Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season. Starting the season as 5000-1 outsiders, the team’s victory captivated the world and demonstrated the magic and unpredictability of the beautiful game. The “Hand of God” Redemption (2002):  In a quarter-final match of the 2002 FIFA World Cup between South Korea and Italy, Ahn Jung-hwan scored a golden goal in extra time to eliminate Italy from the tournament. It was a moment of redemption for South Korea, who had controversially benefited from a goal scored by Ahn’s opponent, Francesco Totti, in the previous World Cup. These are just a few of the countless monumental moments that have shaped the history of soccer. Each moment carries its significance, creating enduring memories for fans and ensuring that the beautiful game continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. The post Biggest Moments in Soccer History first appeared on Craig Warme | Sports. via Craig Warme | Sports https://craigwarme.com November 07, 2023 at 12:25PM

#Craig Warme | Sports

[globalhint]

[umichenginabroad]

Week 2: That one time I got robbed

Today marks two weeks of studying abroad in Buenos Aires, and the end of an eventful week. We started out this week of extreme highs and lows with a beautiful little weekend getaway to Mendoza. A city known for its bodegas (or wineries), Mendoza did not disappoint. We arrived Thursday evening and had a nice dinner after a decently long travel day. One of my favorite things about Argentina culture is something known as a "sobremesa," where everyone stays at the table after finishing eating for purely social purposes. My roommates and I stayed at the restaurant for an entire 2.5 hours just talking. This cultural difference helps make every evening enjoyable, even when there are no big plans going on.

The next morning, we woke up early to head to the San Martin Park, which is the largest in Mendoza, and we ate brunch at a cute outdoor cafe. Afterwards, we explored the mini artisan market, where I bought some jewelry. The , we went on a half-day winery tour that we booked through TripAdvisor. Everything went very smoothly, and the tour guide could speak english. We visited three different bodegas and one olive oil factory, and it was a day well spent. The bodegas were absolutely stunning, and it was really interesting to see the intricacies of the various wine cellars and production process. We also got to taste some delicious bread and olive oil variations as an afternoon snack. Our exciting day came to an end with a beautiful sunset that we got to watch from the rooftop balcony of our final bodega.

Life suddenly moved on after our blissful weekend in Mendoza, and I really felt the shock during our 8 am physics class on Monday morning. It was difficult to snap back into a school routine, but playing ping pong and pool every day between classes definitely helped. If you told me two weeks ago that one of the highlights of my experience abroad so far was playing pool (a game that I had never played before) with classmates, I would've thought I went insane. However, playing little games has helped me bond with the other students, and even meet locals who attend the same university. I also spend most of the free time I have at the nearby parks, where there is an abundance of mini soccer (futbol) fields. Soccer tennis is now an essential part of my daily routine, and it is definitely a rewarding activity. It makes me so happy that I was able to incorporate the sport I love into my experience abroad, especially in the most passionate futbol country in the world.

The week picked up again on Tuesday night with a Tango show that was included with our CEA study abroad program. The venue was absolutely breathtaking, and the dancers matched the venue with their immense talent. I wish photography and recordings were allowed during the show because it was truly one of a kind. I will definitely be investing in tango lessons during the remaining time I have left here.

However, the night quickly plummeted after we decided on keeping the party going at a boliche (similar to a nightclub). After a couple hours of dancing, my heart dropped as I noticed my purse's zipper was open, and my phone was nowhere to be found. When preparing for a considerable trip like this one, lectures on preventing your belongings from being stolen are inevitable. I was always incredibly cautious with keeping my bags within sight and within my grasp, which made it even more distressing to find out my phone was stolen. After a brief mental breakdown, I finally calmed down enough to complete the necessary steps: tracking the location, putting it in lost mode, erasing its content, and calling my cell phone provider to discontinue the number. As this only happened less than 24 hours ago, I am still in a state of distress and shock, but I know that this happens to so many students abroad and that everything will be okay. This was a huge lesson (though one I wish I didn't have to learn) about how you really can never be too cautious with your belongings in a country such as Argentina, and I will take this knowledge and experience with me for the rest of this trip and my life. The good news is that it really can only go up from here, and hopefully by next week's Wu Wednesday, I will have things figured out!

#umichenginabroad #IPEArgentina #MeganWu #IPESummer23 #Argentina

[creatiview]

[ad_1] WHILE overshadowed understandably by Lionel Messi getting his hands on the trophy, Kylian Mbappe scoring a hattrick, and Emi Martinez’s penalty shootout heroics, there was a moment in the 2022 World Cup final when referee Szymon Marciniak made a decision so masterful in its execution it ranked up there with everything else we saw happen in Lusail that November night. It happened, this moment, seconds after Marcus Thuram fell over in the Argentina penalty box and then tried to kid Marciniak into awarding France a penalty with only three minutes remaining of normal time. However, whereas Thuram’s teammates and everybody watching both in the stadium and at home were convinced they knew what would happen next, Marciniak, a picture of composure and conviction, instead wrong-footed us all by hunting down Thuram and booking him for simulation. Certain of it, Marciniak’s conviction was in the end supported by video evidence which showed Thuram had indeed bought the contact and dived, meaning the referee’s decision was not only correct but, given the magnitude of the event and the weight of pressure, one of the finest decisions ever delivered in a football match anywhere and at any time. In boxing, of course, the importance placed on a referee is that much greater given all that is at stake, health-wise. Also, in boxing it is more than just the referee who has the power to make decisions in a fight, at least in terms of when the fight should conclude. Last Saturday in Wembley, for example, as well as it being the job of Steve Gray to potentially make that call, there was also power in the hands of the cornermen of both Anthony Yarde and Artur Beterbiev, for they knew they could at some stage be forced to make a decision they would, ideally, rather not have to make. It is, it goes without saying, easier for the referee to make a decision in that scenario. They, after all, are the ones who are detached from the situation emotionally; the ones who have trained to make calls of that nature. They are also much closer to the two boxers involved with a view unobscured and, one would hope, completely unbiased, influenced not by any personal preference nor, for that matter, the flow of the fight. In the case of Saturday, Steve Gray was ultimately not needed to decide when the fight should end. That was instead left to Tunde Ajayi, Yarde’s coach, who, at the two minutes and one second mark of round eight, made his way up to the ring canvas and signalled he had seen enough. It was a move Gray, to his credit, was quick to spot and then act upon. What followed was the sight of Yarde being embraced by Gray juxtaposed by the sight of Beterbiev, having just floored Yarde with a right hand, wheeling away in celebration. Tunde Ajayi (James Chance/Getty Images) It had all happened so swiftly, this flashpoint, it was difficult in the middle of it to really process what had occurred. Suddenly, in the blink of an eye and a flash of a glove, Yarde, who had been doing so well, found himself on the deck and then, once again upright at the count of eight, was allowed to continue only to seconds later be rescued following just two more Beterbiev rights; of the cuffing variety, both catching the Londoner around the back of the head. Indeed, it was only once it had happened – that is, on reflection – that the sheer brilliance of Ajayi’s decision that night became clear to all who were watching. For it was then, once the dust had slowly started to settle, it became plain to see that what Ajayi had done, in stopping the fight when he did, was produce a moment of impulsive magic akin to what Marciniak produced in the 2022 World Cup final. Outside that ring, while everybody else was focusing on the knockdown and either the attempted finish or recovery, Ajayi, the one most emotionally invested, was instead thinking of other things. He was thinking further ahead, into the future. He was thinking about his boxer’s wellbeing not only in that moment and in that fight, but in the days, weeks, months and years to come.

He was credited for this afterwards, with many saying, “Yarde was only going to get knocked out,” and yet the truth is, when dealing with someone like Artur Beterbiev, the risk is far greater than that. With someone like Artur Beterbiev “only getting knocked out” is often the best-case scenario. This Ajayi, a divisive figure in British boxing, no doubt had in his mind when he decided to end our fun and disappoint his fighter. He did, too, you could see it on Yarde’s face, but this expression was to soon change once Yarde came to understand the degree of compassion and intelligence involved in Ajayi’s snap decision. Because in the end a great stoppage, whether delivered by referee or corner, should always have an element of shock to it. Not a shock one associates with seeing something incorrect or premature, but instead the kind of shock that is shortly followed by a realisation – “Oh, yes, of course!” – delayed only because you are too caught up in the drama and, rightly or wrongly, wanting it to be prolonged. In situations like this, when the stoppage is not only perfect but a masterpiece of timing, it is usually only once it has happened that we see the complete picture. We saw, in this instance, that Ajayi knew Yarde’s role in the fight was over the second his resolve was shattered by a Beterbiev right hand. We saw after that a willingness – albeit with reluctance – to give his charge the benefit of the doubt; to allow him to feel the pride of getting up and going again. We then finally saw, with just one more solid punch the trigger, a coach care enough about his fighter to intervene at exactly the right moment, no questions asked, with the rest of us, those lost in the action, the last to catch up. [ad_2] Source link

[calciopics]

Not just football

When we arrived in Udine it was raining, or rather drizzling. It is still December, Argentina and Leo Messi are not yet world champions, and Serie A, like most other leagues, is experiencing an irritating lull. Even the Dacia Arena is unusually silent, suspended in a metaphysical void that makes the places around it all the more material. One becomes aware of the painstaking work done by the people of Udine and the ownership, which, in addition to having the second most-owned facility in Serie A, has built the entire headquarter made up of training fields, gyms, and offices where all those who make the 'bianconera' club, one of the most modern clubs in Italy, meet every day. But for three seasons now, the Dacia Arena has been the home of Gerard Deulofeu, the protagonist of the seventh episode of More Than. Born in Catalonia and raised in the Masia - Barcelona's academy - Deulofeu has been wearing the Bianconeri jersey since 2020 and ever since that year he wears the very important number 10 on his back.

The first jokes we exchanged are related to the World Cup, the final in fact was to be played in a few days. "I hope Messi wins the World Cup, he deserves it, however, France is really strong," he tells us as we move between the black armchairs of the Friuli and he wears one of the first looks. Gerard Deulofeu is still struggling with an injury, the second to his knee, that is keeping him from playing football: his last match in fact ended at the Maradona Stadium after only 25 minutes of play. But from the way he looks at the field, the turf described as one of the best in Europe, it is clear how determined and eager the Spanish striker is to pick up where he left off. Gerard Deulofeu grew up among the blades of grass at the Spanish academy with a different awareness than his teammates, "when I was 12 years old I was very strong and I already knew I could do it, I was always playing with the older guys. I knew I could become a great soccer player. After that it's not easy, it's different playing in the academy and then on the first team of course, but I knew from that age there that I would break through and make this sport my job." A stubbornness and predestination that perhaps comes from his last name, which means "made by God" in Catalan, and that led him, the only one in his class, to make it to the first team. "Imagine a whole generation where almost no one has made it. It's clear that it's very difficult, there's a lot to do and I myself am very proud of where I've arrived."

Compared to his early days, Gerard Deulofeu has now become a veteran and has experienced from inside the changes that football is currently going through. "Football has changed, so much has changed. The footballer today has a different visibility, he is on TV every day, and the arrival of social media has completely transformed the way we communicate. Today we have a very big responsibility, there are new generations who are watching you day by day, and we who are in the elite of football have to set the right example to understand also how many sacrifices there are behind, coming to this level." In short, people today are looking for a sophisticated and elegant character on which to build a narrative, far from the stereotype of the player who has dominated the magazines for years. And this transformation has not only taken place on the surface but also in the Udinese striker's thoughts and head. In response to my question about what football represented for him, a question as simple as "it is complicated for someone who has made the sport his job", Gerard Deulofeu thinks about it for a moment before giving an answer I would not have expected to hear: "Football? Many people would tell you it's everything, but for me it is not. Before it used to be everything, now it is an important part of my life, but over the years I have managed to differentiate and there are many other important things. I am "loco" about football, I look at all the statistics, the numbers, however, you get to a point where you have to detach, you have to have a side life. In my opinion, focusing on family and having the right people next to you is everything, those are goals I try to pursue day by day."

We are used to perceiving a footballer as someone devoted only to the ball, unable to think of anything else, whereas Deulofeu, while still calling himself "loco"- using Spanish to explain himself best - has learned to balance all aspects of his life, both on and off the pitch. From the very first exchange of banter in our conversation, one notices how concrete and well-ordered Gerard Deulofeu is, almost the opposite of how he moves in the green rectangle, where he brings out imagination and strokes of genius. A pragmatism that is also evident in his social profile, where the Catalan player uses a different approach from the norm, not just commenting or celebrating matches, goals, and records. "I like to show another side of myself on social media. For example, after matches I directly want to interact with the people, explain how it went, what I felt and communicate my feelings. I don't like to write '3 more points or a great match,' I want to explain everything because I love football, I like to experience the matches and I think people are interested in that too". In addition to the usual tactical analysis, the business side of the Udinese striker, something rarely seen in a footballer, immediately stands out: "I want to show this passion of mine, several proposals are coming. I don't have a clear goal yet but I'm always looking for a well-organized project, I think that's the important thing".

However, with his arrival in Italy in 2017 at the court of AC Milan, Deulofeu discovered what will eventually become a new passion of his, fashion. "Obviously in Italy, fashion is something else. I remember my 6 months with AC Milan, I was living at the hotel, and fashion week was incredible. I also remember with pleasure several Milan players who had a unique and sophisticated style. Abate, for example, was one of those who always dressed well." Indeed, arriving in the 'Bel Paese' changed his relationship with certain garments, and he ended up giving more and more attention to this aesthetic aspect. Now, he explains to me, he is aware of how every garment made in Italy is renowned for the quality of the fabrics and the elegance of their construction: "In recent years I have developed a much closer relationship with fashion. Every day I wake up and try different looks, it depends on how I feel when I get up, what my feelings are. Before, I remember that I always used to wear sweatpants, for training and really all day long, however now I like to choose all the clothes and think about the possible combinations. I believe that putting on a certain outfit helps you to make the day better. Although as you have seen I am a terrible model (laughs)."

It's a passion that everyone is aware of by now, so much so that as we're in the final stages of the shooting, several staff members of the technical staff look out to see Gerard Deulofeu in definitely not institutional outfits. He too is sure to be the one with the most style in the team, it's "hard to find another," he tells us. But the passion he discovered and perhaps rediscovered in Italy has its roots in Spain, where he used to meet up with his two close friends Marcos Llorente and Marino: "when I can, I go around a lot with them to stores or even tailors to have clothes tailored for us. They helped me change my wardrobe. However, if I have to tell you a name, the most stylish footballer I have been with is definitely Sergio Ramos, he's always dressed impeccably." Gerard Deulofeu seems to have found his dimension in Italy among his many side projects and especially on the pitch, where with time he has become the driving force of a young team that is always tough to play against. In addition, he is doing so with a new number on his shoulders, which in football is synonymous with quality, imagination, and leadership: "the number 10 here has only been worn by great footballers so it is a great responsibility. I know that when I get on the pitch, I am Udinese's number 10, so I have to be a leader on the pitch and especially on offense. Now I don't want to talk mid-season, because I prefer to talk at the end of the season since this number needs facts. I know what I'm up against." And it couldn't be otherwise in a setting like the one in Friuli, where everyone is a fundamental part of a bigger mechanism, in a lifestyle that for years has never ceased to amaze: "I feel very happy here, it's been two years and my level on the pitch is also feeling the effects. Being happy on a team for me has so much value, I don't want to think about the future because otherwise I don't live the present, and being here the present is very good. I don't go out too much, I stay with my family, I'm always thinking about the game, always focused," always keeping in mind how football is not everything.

#Gerard Deulofeu Lázaro #Deulofeu #FC Barcelona #Everton FC #Sevilla #ac milan #Watford #Udinese #nss magazine #football #fussball #fußball #foot #fodbod #futbol #soccer #calcio

[stateofsport211]

A Rapid Start for Argentina Bears Sixth World Cup Final, Twice Within 8 Years

Lionel Messi (left) and Luka Modric (right) will face each other in today's World Cup semifinal (📸 Getty Images via 90min)

The first semifinal (from the top half of the draw) of the World Cup saw Argentina, who is vying for their third World Cup title after 1978 and 1996; and Croatia, who has never won a FIFA World Cup title before, but notably made deep runs: becoming the third place in 1998 and runner-up in 2018. Uniquely enough, both France (who will play against Morocco tomorrow) and Croatia were the 2018 finalists, so there is a likelihood that they contest another final.

Furthermore, there is a possibility that this match ends dramatically with a penalty shootout to determine its outcome, considering the Croatian records coming to this match and how Argentina defeated the Netherlands in a similar manner, as well as their playing and coordinating pace. Whether or not this happened, would depend on the outcome of this match.

Lionel Messi successfully executed the penalty to secure the Argentinean lead in the first half (📸 Reuters via The Telegraph)

The first half interestingly started with several chances for Argentina, which signified their ability to play more aggressively despite the Croatian higher ball possession rate at 54% during the early parts of the first half. The Argentinean aggression started to pay off when they were closer to the target, where for example, Julian Alvarez's shot was saved by Dominik Livakovic. Croatia, on the other hand, defended well during a free kick happening after Nicolas Tagliafico's foul, where Luka Modric blocked the free kick.

Julian Alvarez's goal in the first half against Croatia (📸 BBC)

Unfortunately, Livakovic's attempt to save the ball from J. Alvarez resulted in Livakovic getting a yellow card, as well as Mateo Kovacic for complaining, as well as a penalty being rewarded to the Argentinean side. Lionel Messi successfully executed the penalty, securing Argentina a 1-0 lead. Furthermore, Messi became not only the oldest man to score 5 goals at a single FIFA World Cup at 35 years old but also surpassed Gabriel Batistuta as Argentina's top scorer in the FIFA World Cup final stages (with 11 goals). Several minutes later at 38', J. Alvarez took advantage of the non-existent Croatian defense on their pitch, where he received a wide-distance ball from Nahuel Molina, only for him to storm through the penalty box and ultimately score the second goal. Somehow, Argentina almost found a way to score a third goal in this half when Alexis Mac Allister received the ball from the corner and fired it straight to the penalty box, only for Livakovic to save it. Argentina led 2-0 by the end of the first half.

Nicolas Alvarez's second goal, scored in the second half to secure the Argentinean victory (📸 FIFA via Getty Images through Daily Mail)

The second half started with a possibility of the Croatian counter-attack, where they notably had more chances than the first. In 55', Croatia actually had a cleaner possession but lost it again at another point. Consequently, Argentina took another advantage and had another on-target chance, where Messi dribbled deep into the Croatian area and passed the ball to Enzo Fernandez who gave it back to Messi, where Livakovic saved his shot. The goal, however, came to fruition at 68', where Messi assisted J. Alvarez in getting through the Croatian defense, where the latter scored the third goal to secure the 3-0 lead. With this goal, J. Alvarez (22 years old) became the youngest player to score twice in a World Cup semifinal (or final) after Pele (who achieved it when he was 17 years old).

Another notable Argentinean chance in the second half came from Mac Allister, who received the ball juggled from Messi, and fired too wide to the right. Croatia had their chances, where after the corner, Dejan Lovren received the ball precisely at the penalty box but could not score within a matter of centimeters, and during the last free kick before the final whistle, where Lovren's shot went to the sky instead. When Daniele Orsato (the referee of this match) blew his final whistle, that confirmed the Argentinean 3-0 victory.

This flawless performance, especially where Ian Wright (the ITV pundit) said how this tactic nullified the Croatian midfield sector, enabled Argentina to advance to their sixth FIFA World Cup final, and the second within eight years (after becoming the runner-up to Germany 0-1 after extra time). In a post-match interview, Messi admitted that "the loss to Saudi Arabia may ruin their winning streak (by the time), but it made the team's mental even stronger, where we treat the match like a final." On the other hand, Croatia also had a fantastic tournament, having reached their second semifinal within just four years with their own depth, which includes the 20-year-old Red Bull Leipzig player, Josko Gvardiol, who is a stellar midfielder.

Argentina will face the winner of tomorrow's France v. Morocco in this Sunday's final, while the defeated team from the match will face Croatia in Saturday's third-place play-off. On another note, those two matches would add to "one more match" in Messi's and Luka Modric's possible last World Cup. Buckle up, because France v. Morocco would be lit in their own right: including a possibility of a more fast-paced game in a history-related clash, where other than the dark past and the relations to how it is today, Morocco has a likelihood to be Africa's (and Arab's) first World Cup finalist and defying the odds once more!

#fifa world cup 2022 #fifa world cup #world cup qatar 2022 #football news #football updates #semifinals #knock out stage #qatar 2022 #world cup #qatar world cup #argentine national team #argentina #croatia

[vidstudiosworld]

The Man Behind the Magic

Cristiano Ronaldo has an excellent rapport with Lionel Messi, but there were some issues in the past couple of months. The Portuguese forward has been critical of his club's manager and also of the young players within his squad. Piers Morgan interviewed him about the rivalry and his relationship to the Argentina star. There is no apology. Ronaldo already has scored for Manchester United this season. He scored a goal and a double against Newcastle. He also is part of the Portuguese World Cup team. But his contribution may not be enough. In the event of the amount the money he can spend, it could be too far to make a significant difference. Cristiano Ronaldo is considered the best footballer of all time by many. However, he's not the most efficient, the fastest and the most ruthless or even the most well-trained. His place on the top team is likely to be taken by someone who can't score goals. He could still provide some assistance to teams, but it is on a case by case basis. Ronaldo has been able to keep his incredible rate of scoring over the past two years, though, with his goals scored in the Champions League, the World Cup and the Premier League all coming to the surface. Therefore, Ronaldo is on contract until the close of the season. The player will not participate in any match that will challenge the top four teams. Ronaldo isn't the same player Ronaldo was at the 2009 Cup final. He's still young but isn't at his best. His movement is fragile and his dribbling ability has been slowed. In this light, the man behind the magic should focus on Qatar. When the player made his way to Old Trafford on Thursday evening, thousands of fans packed the streets in front of the stadium to welcome the man they had waited for all these years. They turned out to celebrate return to Old Trafford for one of the players they consider to be the best. However, he was unhappy about his performance. He was praised for his goal against Newcastle however, his performance during the game was inconsistency. Instead, he lacked leadership and displayed indications of discontent. It was evident that he was trying to score, but he was not quite receiving the results he was hoping for. He was unhappy over his performance, as well as his team-mates. He also expressed his displeasure at the team and his manager. He even did a hand-clap and yelled "Sii!" He shouts out an extended "I I love you" when he gets frustrated. This isn't the first time doing it.

Furthermore, he was not very well. He had tendinitis in the left knee. In spite of this, he chose to start against Real Sociedad. Despite his anger but he did showcase his talent, showing off some of his trademark flicks and dribbles. Video from YouTube

#Football #World Cup #Goals

[mambajumbastuff]

The Man Behind the Magic

While Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have a great relationship, there have been some difficulties in the past couple of months. The Portuguese player has been harsh of his coach, and of the youngsters who are part of his team. Piers Morgan interviewed him about the rivalry and also his relationship to the Argentina superstar. There is no apology. Ronaldo has scored goals this season with Manchester United. He scored two goals against Newcastle. He's also a member of the Portuguese World Cup squad. The contribution he makes may not be sufficient. The amount of funds he's able to spend, it could be too early to have a positive impact. For many, the most successful footballer of all time is Cristiano Ronaldo. But he's not the fastest, the smartest or the most efficient, or the most tiniest. His spot on the first team is likely to be taken by someone who's not scoring goals. Although he might be able to contribute something to teams, it will be more depending on the situation. Ronaldo has managed to keep up his amazing rate of scoring over the last two years though, with his goals in the Champions League, the World Cup as well as the Premier League all coming to fruition. He's therefore on contract until the end of. However, he will not be a starter with any team looking to make a run at the top four spots. Ronaldo isn't the same person who he was when he played in the 2009 Cup final. Ronaldo is still young, but isn't yet at his best. His mobility is not as fast and the speed at which he dribbles has diminished. With this in mind, the man behind the magic must focus on Qatar.

On Thursday night Old Trafford was filled with thousands of fans waiting patiently for the return of the player they loved for so many years. They came to celebrate the returning to Old Trafford of the player they consider to be the greatest. He was not happy about his performance. He was highly praised for his goal in the match against Newcastle but his performance during the match was inconsistent. Instead, he lacked leadership and displayed signs of frustration. He clearly was trying to score but wasn't receiving the results he wanted. He was unhappy by his performance and his team-mates. He vented his frustration at his manager and club. During his rage the player even clapped his hands and yelled "Sii!" He yells an extended "I I love you" when he gets frustrated. This is not his first time doing it. Moreover, he was not especially healthy. His left knee had tendinitis. He chose to tackle Real Sociedad despite this. Despite his frustrations, however he did show his skill by showing his signature flicks or dribbles. Video embeds anchors:

#Football #World Cup #Goals

[jackblogsthings]

The Man Behind the Magic

Although Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have a great relationship There have been a few issues in the past few months. The Portuguese winger has criticised his manager as well as the younger players of his squad. Piers Morgan interviewed him about the rivalry as well as his relationship to the Argentina superstar. There is no apology. Ronaldo already has scored for Manchester United this season. He scored a double in the match against Newcastle. He is also a member of the Portuguese World Cup squad. The contribution he makes may not be enough. It may be too for him to spend, depending on the amount he can spend. For many, the greatest footballer of all time is Cristiano Ronaldo. But he's not the fastest, smartest and most effective, or the one with the best slick-out. If he is unable to score goals, his spot in the top team is probably gone. However, he may be able to provide some assistance to teams, but this will be on a case-by- case basis. Ronaldo has managed to keep his dazzling rate of scoring for the past two years, however, his goals in the Champions League, the World Cup and the Premier League all coming to the surface. Ronaldo is thus under contract until the end of. He will not play in any games that challenge the top four teams. At this stage in his career Ronaldo is no longer the player he was in the 2009 Cup final. He is still young but has yet to reach his best. His agility is fragile and his dribbling ability has diminished. The man who is behind the magic should be paying attention to Qatar. On Thursday night, Old Trafford was filled with thousands of fans who waited long and patiently for the return of the player they adored for so long. They were waiting to celebrate the return of the player they consider to be the greatest player to ever play. However, he was not pleased about his performance. He was acknowledged for his goal against Newcastle but his performance throughout the match was unsteady. He was not up to speed and displayed indications of discontent. He clearly was trying to score, but was not receiving the results he wanted. He was unhappy with his performance, and his teammates. He vented his frustration to his manager and club. As he raged the player even clapped his hands and yelled "Sii!" (the extended "I love you" which he uses when he is frustrated). It's not the first time he has done this. Also, he was not physically fit. He had tendinitis in his left knee. In spite of this, he chose to go up against Real Sociedad. Despite his frustrations, he managed to show his brilliance through his trademark flicks and dribbles.

Go to the video

#Football #World Cup #Goals