Southampton defeats Man City in EFL Cup

Southampton shock Man City; knocks them out of EFL Cup

Manchester City’s stocks have been on the decline recently. After being 5 points behind leaders Arsenal in the Premier League, the club has crashed out of the EFL Cup, aka Carabao Cup. The Premier League defending champs lost to Southampton 2-0 thanks to goals from Sekou Mara and Moussa Djenepo.

Pep Guardiola’s decision to name an under-strength squad for the match backfired massively. There was no chemistry in the playing XI. The second-half substitutes Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva and Ederson also didn’t quite help the cause. The Blues didn’t muster a single shot on target as Pep Guardiola lost a domestic cup quarter-final for the first time in his managerial career.

Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse told Sky Sports that his side played without fear and praised new manager Nathan Jones. He said, “[It is] a special night. These games are special to play in especially when you’re struggling in the league. We knew this was a distraction from the league and a great showcase. We showed no fear.”

Southampton will now take on Newcastle United in the semifinals for a chance to meet either Manchester United or Nottingham Forest in the final.

Ronaldo and Messi Playing Football

Ronaldo will square off against Messi in a friendly clash

Lionel Messi’s Paris St. Germain will play a friendly against an all-star team comprising players from Saudi clubs Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal. The match will see Ronaldo and Messi go against each other on January 19 in Riyadh.

Qatar-owned PSG will travel to Doha on January 17 before moving on to the Saudi capital for the match at the King Fahd Stadium, which will see Messi and Ronaldo renew their rivalry. Their rivalry grew over nine years when they came up against each other in Spain when Messi was starring for Barcelona and Ronaldo for Real Madrid.

Ronaldo moved to Al-Nassr in a shocking move that saw him become the most expensive player of all time with a deal worth around $200 million per year. While his long-time competitor recently lifted the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy cementing his status as one of the game’s greats.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo hasn’t made his debut for the Saudi club. It is reported the superstar will be available for the friendly game. The game will broadcast live on PSG’s social media platforms for the benefit of fans.

Gareth Bale announces retirement

Wales star Gareth Bale announces retirement from football

Former Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspurs great Gareth Bale has announced his retirement from football. Bale confirmed his decision in a statement on Instagram on Monday, saying he has taken an “opportunity for a new adventure.”

 

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The Wales superstar posted on Instagram: “After careful and thoughtful consideration, I announce my immediate retirement from the club and international football.” He further added, “I feel incredibly fortunate to have realised my dream of playing the sport I love. It has truly given me some of the best moments of my life. The highest of highs over 17 seasons that will be impossible to replicate, no matter what the next chapter has in store for me.”

Bale began his career at Southampton before moving to Tottenham, where he spent six seasons and won two PFA Players’ Player of the Year awards. His exploits with Spurs earned him a blockbuster move to Madrid in 2013 for a reported fee of £ 77 million (€91m).

The Wales great further said, “To my previous clubs, Southampton, Tottenham, Real Madrid and finally LAFC. All of my previous managers and coaches, back room staff, team-mates, all the dedicated fans, my agents, my amazing friends and family, the impact you have had is immeasurable.

Gareth Bale has been part of Southampton, Tottenham Hotspurs, Real Madrid and Los Angeles FC. The superstar has won three La Liga titles, the Champions League five times and the Club World Cup on three occasions during his time at Real Madrid.

Bale’s last appearance on the pitch was during their 3-0 defeat to England as Wales was knocked out of the World Cup group stage in Qatar. Bale had an impactful role in Wales. He led the team to an unimaginable run to the semi-finals at the 2016 Euro. He also played a vital role in the team qualifying for its first-ever FIFA World Cup.

Benfica are under investigation for 'match fixing' after hacked emails were accessed

Portuguese club Benfica are under investigation for match fixing

As per reports, Portuguese club Benfica is currently under investigation for match-fixing. The reports say the investigation has come about as a result of hacked emails being accessed by prosecutors and relates to a four-year period between 2016 and 2020.

The investigation comes just a year-and-a-half after the club’s president, Luis Filipe Vieira, was forced to resign after getting arrested on tax evasion, aggravated fraud, forgery and money laundering charges.

Former Benfica, AC Milan and Portugal star Rui Costa, who became the club’s vice-president in 2020 but took over the president’s post when Vieira resigned, is also involved in the investigation, as per the reports.

Benfica released a statement, saying, “Taking into account the news made public today, Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol SAD confirms that it appeared in court on January 3, as well as, among others, the members of the Board of Directors from 2016 to 2020 and who are currently in office.”

The club further added, “Benfica SAD will not comment further as the trial is under legal secrecy. Benfica expresses its total willingness to collaborate with the competent authorities, as has always happened up to now.”

Ganguly vs Dhoni vs Kohli: Who is the greatest Indian captain?

Ganguly vs Dhoni vs Kohli: Who has been the greatest Indian captain?

Sourav Ganguly and MS Dhoni are the founding fathers of modern-day Indian cricket. While the legend Sourav Ganguly injected the fighting spirit into the frail Indian side, MS Dhoni got back the glory days in the country. India won their first World Cup in 1983 but failed to thrive on the success achieved by the great Kapil Dev. It took India more than 2 decades to win their second World Cup, which came in the face of the 2007 T20 World Cup. 

While MS Dhoni carried India toward its peak, Sourav Ganguly created a solid base for it to happen. Then came Virat Kohli, the most fearless of all. Not a single team in the world wasn’t scared to face Virat Kohli’s Test team, even the big bullies Aussies. Virat Kohli dominated the Baggy Green on their turf not once but twice. Virat Kohli was the new captain of the new India, and it never got any better. 

What if you are asked to select one among the three? Ganguly vs Dhoni vs Kohli: Who is the greatest Indian captain? Let’s have a closer look.

Let’s have a look at their journey as Indian captains. 

Sourav Ganguly: 

Team India is known for its passion and aggressive approach toward the game. Sourav Ganguly is the prime inspiration behind that. Who can forget his famous celebration at the Lords in 2002, where he rattled the entire British team as well their media with his shirtless celebration? The Prince of Kolkata had one message for his team “don’t get dominated” by any opposition. He forced the fighting spirit amongst the Men in Blue. Ganguly also handed many youngsters like MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh a chance to play in his team, the players who later went on to win many accolades for India. 

Sourav Ganguly Discharged After COVID-19 Treatment - Pragativadi

Creator: Michael Steele | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2003 Getty Images

Most importantly, Sourav Ganguly took charge of the Indian team when the side was going through its worst phase, as many senior Indian players, including Mohammad Azharuddin, got banned for match-fixing. Azharuddin was charged with match-fixing in the year 2000 and was later banned for life by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The incident took place after India toured South Africa in 2000; India won the series 3–2. The scandal left a huge dent in team India and its reputation. 

Sourav Ganguly became the prime candidate to lead the Indian team after superstar Sachin Tendulkar stepped down from the role citing his health as the reason. As Ganguly was the vice-captain at that time, the BCCI decided to hand him the bandwidth of the Indian team. Ganguly proved to be a promising captain as he took India to the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy finals in his first year. 

Sourav Ganguly-led India reached the finals of the 2003 World Cup for the first time since 1983. However, India lost the finals against Australia. Nevertheless, Ganguly had a brilliant tournament in which he scored 465 runs at an average of 58.12, which also included 3 centuries. By the year 2004, Ganguly was termed one of the most successful captains of Team India. 

MS Dhoni:

MS Dhoni is arguably, the greatest Indian captain of the modern generation. He is the only captain to win all three ICC limited-overs trophies, including the 50-50 World Cup, the T20 World Cup, and the Champions Trophy. MS Dhoni might come second to only the great Australian player Ricky Ponting in terms of captaincy in international cricket. MS Dhoni’s game sense and leadership qualities set him apart from everyone else. MSD took charge of the young Indian side in the first T20 World Cup when the seniors refused to take responsibility. 

MS Dhoni wins ICC Spirit of Cricket Award of the Decade | Cricket News – India TV

Creator: Hagen Hopkins | Credit: Getty Images

The sumptuous MS Dhoni won India the 2011 50-50 World Cup with a six, a memory which is tattooed in the memories of every Indian fan. Even the best captains out there take inspiration from MS Dhoni. The guy from Jharkhand changed the fortune of Indian cricket as well as the definition of elite captaincy. MS Dhoni won the Champions Trophy in 2013; the last ICC Trophy won by India. MS Dhoni has won 4 IPL trophies with Chennai Super Kings. 

Famous quotes about MS Dhoni 

  1. “Dhoni is the best Captain I have played under.” – Sachin Tendulkar
  2. “I would go to war with Dhoni by my side.” – Gary Kirsten 
  3. “He knows exactly what he wants to do in the middle. He is always calm and composed. He allows himself to make those tough decisions on the field. For me, he will always be my captain.” – Virat Kohli 
  4. ” If Dhoni tells me to jump from the 24th floor, I’d readily do it.” – Ishant Sharma
  5. “As far as One-Day Cricket is concerned, Dhoni is one of the greatest Captains of all times.” – Saurav Ganguly 

Virat Kohli: 

Virat Kohli was handed India’s leadership in 2014 when MS Dhoni took a step down from the Test format. In 2017, Virat Kohli became the all-format skipper of the Indian national team. Virat Kohli was an adamant leader who demanded fitness and full dedication. Virat’s regime was one of the most dominating eras in Indian cricket’s history but only in the bilateral series. Be it a down-under Test series or hosting any team at home, Virat’s side entered the match as the favourites. 

Virat Kohli surpasses Ricky Ponting by breaking 1214-day drought

Creator: MUNIR UZ ZAMAN

Having said that, Virat Kohli’s team failed to thrive in the major ICC events. Be it the 2019 50-50 World Cup or 2021 T20 World Cup, team India got out of the tournament in an embarrassing manner. India also failed to win the ICC WTC finals against New Zealand. Virat Kohli was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the full-time Indian captain in 2022. However, Virat Kohli will still be remembered as one of the most influential captains of team India. 

Team India played a total of 95 matches under Virat Kohli’s captaincy in ODIs. India managed to win a total of 65 matches and maintained a winning rate of 68.42%. Virat Kohli is the fourth-most successful Indian captain in the 50-over format behind MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, and Mohammed Azharuddin. 

Who is the better captain?

Dhoni captained India in 60 tests, out of which he won 28, lost 18, and drew 15. His win percentage is 45. Ganguly captained India in 49 tests in which he won 21, lost 13, and drew 15. His win percentage is 42.85. Dhoni has an upper hand over Sourav Ganguly in Test cricket. Dhoni won the ODI and the T20I World Cup, which automatically makes him the more successful captain in the limited-overs format. 

Virat Kohli has captained India in 68 Test matches and managed to win 40 of them. Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain. Virat Kohli has captained India in 24 Test series and has won 18 of them. He never lost a Test series at home. 

Ganguly vs Dhoni vs Kohli: Who has been the best captain for India 

Virat Kohli is out of contention because while he achieved a lot in Test cricket, he failed to win any major ICC tournament with a solid team. Sourav Ganguly injected a new trend in Indian cricket, and he is the closest to MS Dhoni regarding the best captains. 

MS Dhoni is clearly the best captain in the history of Indian cricket. 

Famous cricketers talk about MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, and Virat Kohli in captaincy: 

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith: 

“The biggest difference between Dada’s captaincy and Dhoni’s captaincy is MS, the player for me. I think in that middle order, the ability to close games, win games, and finish games in that calm that he brought to the people around him. I think that the biggest difference between the two heroes is MS Dhoni. 

If Dada had an MS-type player, his team would have been slightly more developed; I think you would have seen him win plenty more trophies. Dada was blessed to play or not blessed to play in an era where Australian cricket was at the forefront and dominating the world game as well, which at the time, the team had won the most during that period, 

I agree that when it comes to Test cricket, having played against MS, you would always feel that you had an opportunity to work him over, especially away and out of India, but I think when it comes to Test cricket, I’ll have to sit with Dada, but one-day cricket, certainly MS is my man.” 

Former Sri Lanka captain Sangakkara 

“You can be judged on a lot of things, but sometimes you have to leave something behind, and I think in that sense, Dada did a lot to create a wonderful legacy for others to inherit, and MS benefitted from that. MS, an exceptional player and unbelievable captain, has moved Indian cricket forward. But the foundation for all of that was laid by Dada for me. In one-day cricket, the ability to finish is always very, very tough. So, I would go with MS for sure in limited-overs cricket, in white-ball cricket just because he batted at that tougher finisher position, but in Test cricket, without a doubt, Ganguly every day.”

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir 

“Both these guys have taken Indian cricket forward, but just purely from an impact point of view, I can only talk about MS Dhoni because he was very serious about taking Indian cricket forward.” 

Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin 

“Cricket captains will always be spoken about with respect to their records and the kind of triumphs they managed, but Virat Kohli’s legacy as a captain will stand for the kind of benchmarks you have set. There will be people who will talk about wins in Australia, England, Sl, etc. Wins are just a result, and the seeds are always sown well before the harvest! The seeds you managed to sow is the kind of standard you set for yourself, hence setting the expectations straight with the rest of us.” 

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah 

“Integrity, insight, and inclusivity. Virat Kohli’s contribution to the team as captain is invaluable; Virat Kohli has been a great leader to this side. It’s been a pleasure playing under Virat Kohli.” 

Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri 

“Virat can go with his head held high. Few have achieved what you have as captain. Definitely India’s most aggressive and successful.”

Romeo Beckham

Beckham Jr. joins Premier League side Brentford on loan

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid legend David Beckham’s son, Romeo Beckham, has joined English Premier League side Brentford on loan. The youngster who played for Inter Miami II will appear for Brentford B till the end of the season.

“Brentford are delighted to announce the signing of Romeo Beckham from Inter Miami CF on loan until the end of the 2022-23 season,” the club said.

“The 20-year-old will join Neil MacFarlane’s B team for the rest of the campaign to continue his development as he makes the temporary switch from the MLS club. The move is subject to international clearance.”

The new recruit said he was relishing his opportunity, telling Brentford’s website: “I’m very proud and very happy to be here. He further added, “I came here at the start to keep fit during the off-season. The chance then came to come on loan here, and I’ve never been so excited.”

The right winger has appeared for Fort Lauderdale CF and Inter Miami II and played 6 and 20 games, respectively. He has scored 2 goals for Inter Miami II in the 2022 MLS Next Pro season.

Romeo Beckham’s dad David Beckham also started his journey the same way. He was loaned to Brimsdown Rovers’s youth team.

The ultimate guide to selecting a squash ball

The ultimate guide to selecting a squash ball

While buying sports items, it is necessary to consider all the criteria and essential details. There are many varieties in each item that are specifically prepared to fit certain game types and players. To get your game correct initially, it is better to look at all these sub-points that will help you select the best item that is fit for your level and aid you in saving money from getting wasted. 

Playing Level 

For beginners or children– White dot ball/ single blue dot ball is made for beginners due to higher bounce. It has 40% more bounce than the ball for advanced players, which makes players confident in their game as they can give more hang time. There is no need to warm up the ball before beginning the game. 

For intermediates– It bounces more than 10% more than the Prime. The refined players should use this ball. It is suitable for cold weather conditions. 

For advanced level– To play with this level of ball, there is a great technique requirement, and both players must be good in their gameplay. 

Court temperature 

The squash court’s temperature is essential when selecting the right ball, as it can affect the game. 

Low temperature: Go for a ball that bounces much higher. 

Higher temperature: When it is hotter, balls have a low bounce. 

The material used in squash ball 

It is better to know the basics and the game’s elements down to the T to understand better the sport you will be playing. 

The balls are composed of raw butyl rubber, and a mixture of natural and synthetic materials is added. The ball is empty from the inside, more towards the hollow side, and the air that is present inside works as an absorbent of energy converted into heat. This process makes the rubber expand more which makes it bouncier. One should know this, as the squash ball should be warmed up to bounce. 

Choosing the Right Squash Ball

Choosing the ball must be according to a player’s level of game and expertise. For beginners, it is always better to start from ground level and not directly skip on the upper ones, as that can ruin the fundamentals of the game, which can have a bad impact in the future.

Online websites are the best source for buying this equipment as they give ample knowledge and information on the ball they sell. It will be easier to know the ball’s performance by reading through these details to know if the ball is better for your style. 

Educational videos on various internet platforms can give a fair understanding and personalized opinions on which ball to choose while listening to the reviews given by game experts. 

If you are visiting a store, ask the salesperson to help you choose the ball, as they have deep knowledge and hands-on experience in knowing which ball will suit your game the best. 

What are the different squash ball types? 

If you have started developing a new interest in squash and are looking forward to purchasing a squash ball, then it can be done by looking at the different symbols displayed on it. 

Various colours on the ball mean a difference in bounce, and the temperature can also affect it. 

  • Blue Single Dot: This is the squash ball for beginners. It is the ideal choice for those who have just started in this game because it has the highest time of hanging in the air compared to any other ball. Blue single dot allows players to enjoy rallies and get comfortable with the game. 
  • Red Single Dot: This is highly used and is fit for intermediate players. It has the quality of good bounce as the diameter is larger. One can use this ball to develop their skills and reach a higher level because of good hanging time. 
  • Yellow Single Dot: Club or semi-pro players use this squash ball, a fit choice in cool places. The hanging time of this is more than Double dot type. 
  • Yellow Double Dot: Professionals in this game who have mastered their skills use this type, and they can be commonly seen in the squash circuit. The qualities of this ball that makes it the most favourable choice are that it is consistent and it sustains games that have hard-hitting, which aids in maintaining the ideal temperature for better performance in the game. 
  • White ball: This should be only used in the glass courts. It is more like yellow double dot balls in its performance. It is used in glass courts so that there is more visibility of it in the court. 

Specifications of a squash ball 

Diameter– It is measured perpendicular to the seam. The diameter ranges between 39.5mm to 40.5mm. 

Weight- Ranges between 23-25 grams.

Changing of the ball– There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to changing the ball. If you feel that the ball has worn off as it starts looking shinier and skidding, then it is a sign that the ball needs to be changed. This occurs when the ball is used for more than 8-10 hours of playing. If there are no such signs, the ball is good to go. 

In professional matches, a ball change is allowed after every two games. 

Package- These balls are sold individually, in a tube, a 3-pack, and a box. If you go for a single ball, it is given in a small cardboard box; these are more for beginners. For Pro and Competitive matches, the balls are bought in tubes containing three balls. Tubes are much more preferred than individual ones because they are used to store the balls in an orderly way which keeps them protected from any harm and slows down the process of wear and tear. It is also clean and handy to carry in the racket bag. A box contains 12 individually packed balls. 

Best Brands to buy Squash Balls 

While buying these squash balls, it is always better to go for a well-known brand to get your hands on the best quality product. A few of them are listed down below with their features and positives. 

1) Dunlop 

This brand has a well-set reputation. They are known to produce the largest number of squash balls in the entire globe. The famous ball most commonly used is the DUNLOP PRO YELLOW DOUBLE Dot ball. As white squash balls were mentioned above that were only used in glass courts, this brand was the first to develop them, including the Red, Yellow, and Blue. 

Positives 

  • Dunlop Pro is officially used by World Squash Federation (WSF), the Women’s International Squash Players Association, and Professional Squash Association (PSA). ● It is known to give a steady performance that will aid players in engaging in powerful and decent gameplay. 
  • They produce 7 types of squash balls that fit every game. 

2) Head 

This brand is developing a good name in the market after they have come up with great sets of rackets. It is a sports brand that is based in the UK. Their products are renowned worldwide because of the quality of goods that they supply. These balls are made up of excellent materials; the control is high-level and durable. 

Positives 

  • It is easy to recognize the different types as different colours on the ball mark them.
  • These balls are created out of special rubber material, which changes the entire gameplay as it makes it easier to use. 

3) Prince 

They are known to create balls that give an ulterior game experience by being extra bouncy, having fast speed, and great durability. It has a quick pace. 

Positives 

  • Squash players from any level can use balls made by this company. ● The World Squash specifications approve it because of the material used to make this which makes the gameplay quite effective and comfortable while using it on the court. 

4) Tecnifibre 

This company has lots of experience as it was made in 1979. It now only makes squash equipment, which gives it an exclusive reputation. They produce squash racquets, strings, balls, grips, bags, and more. The speed of the ball is known to be steady, while the bounce is quite consistent. Excellent for experienced players in the game. 

Positives 

  • It comes with two balls in a pack. 
  • Expert players can use this to see a change in their game as it is made up of ulterior quality. 
  • This company sells squash balls made by the ex-world number one player Thierry Lincou. 

Conclusion: 

With this guide, buy the optimum squash ball to improve your game. This will also help you to put your money into the right equipment and save a lot of time by not playing with the wrong ball, which can ruin the entire skill. With the right ball choice for every player and details about the squash ball, we hope there are no doubts left in your ball to select the right one.

Breaking: Daley Blind signs a short-term deal with Bayern Munich

After much speculation, Netherlands international Daley Blind has made a shocking move to Bundesliga champs Bayern Munich. The Netherlands defender had been heavily linked with Royal Antwerp, but he jumped at the chance to join Bayern.

“I can hardly wait to play here. We’ve got the most important part of the season coming up, where it’s about titles – and a club like Bayern can win every trophy. The hunger for titles here at the club was key in my decision. I hope I can bring my experience to help the team. I’ll give everything for Bayern Munich,” Blind said in a release from Bayern Munich.

“We’re delighted that Daley is joining our team. Daley is a versatile defender, capable of playing on the left or in the centre. He has great international experience and leadership qualities. I’m sure he’ll help us,” sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said.

Blind left his former club Ajax unceremoniously. Across two spells at Ajax, he made over 300 appearances and won the Eredivisie on seven occasions – only Johan Cruyff and Sjaak Swart won more league titles with the Amsterdam giants with eight apiece. After knowing that one of his experienced players is leaving the club, Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar said, “I hope he can find another club to end his successful career with.”

Blind will be a massive boost for Bayern, with injuries to key players such as Lucas Hernandez and Manuel Neuer already ahead of their return to league action. Therefore, he could prove a strong addition to replace Hernandez.

Footballers who surprised everyone at the 2022 FIFA World Cup

The biggest sporting event in the world had everything to offer its fans. From controversies to legendary goals, football was the ultimate winner in the 2022 edition of the FIFA World Cup. One of the greatest players of all time, Lionel Messi, finally won the World Cup and completed football. The finals were set up between France and Argentina as both parties left their everything on the pitch to clinch the auspicious trophy. Kylian Mbappe bagged an iconic hat trick to take the game to the penalties, but Emi Martinez rose up to the occasion to win it for the Argentines. 

While the world celebrated Messi’s glory, some fans also felt bad for Kylian Mbappe. The PSG youngster was arguably the best player on the pitch that night, as he seemed to be unstoppable. However, Argentina proved to be a better side throughout the exciting finale as the South Americans didn’t allow France to take the lead even once in the game. The likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr, Luka Modric, and Robert Lewandowski, alongside Lionel Messi, featured in their last World Cup. 

One of the most taking points of the World Cup will be the rise of the underdogs in the tournament. Qatar World Cup 2022 has already handed us plenty of new names who have the potential to become big names in the coming future. Apart from the usual big names, many players played exceptionally well in the tournament. Players like Yassine Bounou and Josko Gvardiol made a name for themselves with back-to-back world-class performances. Let’s have a look at the players who surprised everyone in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

5 Players who surprised everyone in the 2022 FIFA World Cup 

1) Yassine Bounou: Goalkeeper (Morocco) 

Yassine Bounou cible de Manchester United

Creator: Alex Pantling | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Sevilla’s goalkeeper was one of the biggest surprise packages of this year’s World Cup. Yassine Bounou, also known as ‘Bono’, emerged as the leader from the back for the Moroccans in the Qatar World Cup 2022. Apart from his back-to-back solid performances, Bono was also a motivating factor for his team. Bono carried his side to the round of 16 after a heroic performance against Spain in the penalty shoot-out. Bono was also one of the best players for Morocco during their iconic win against Portugal in the quarter-finals. 

2) Josko Gvardiol: Centre-back (Croatia) 

Josko Gvardiol hands transfer boost to Real Madrid

Creator: Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto

Croatia has created history in their two consecutive World Cup campaigns. The 2018 World Cup finalists managed to beat Brazil in the quarter-finals of this year’s tournament. Josko Gvardiol was Croatia’s wall in the back. The masked knight made sure that his goal was safe in his watch. Josko Gvardiol also scored a goal against Morocco to win it for Croatia in their fight for 3rd place in the Qatar 2022 World Cup. 

3) Sofyan Amrabat: Central midfield (Morocco) 

Surprise source now claims Sofyan Amrabat to Liverpool is a done deal

Creator: Francois Nel | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Sofyan Amrabat took the World Cup 2022 by storm. He was arguably one of the best midfielders in the high-end competition. He single-handedly dominated the Spanish trio of

Gavi, Pedri, and Busquets in the Round of 16 clash. Amrabat is now being tipped to be joining a big club in the coming summer window. He was surely a surprise package of the 2022 World Cup. 

4) Cody Gakpo: Winger (Netherlands) 

Liverpool confirm signing of World Cup star Cody Gakpo | Arab News

Creator: ALBERT GEA | Credit: REUTERS

Cody Gakpo has made all the headlines recently as he joined the English giants Liverpool for a transfer fee of around £37 million. Liverpool didn’t waste any time signing the Dutch sensation after his spectacular stint in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Gakpo created history after becoming the first Dutch player to score in all three of the group stage matches at a World Cup. The 23-year-old also became only the fourth Dutch player to score in three consecutive World Cup games — joining the likes of Johan Neeskens, Dennis Bergkamp, and Wesley Sneijder. 

5) Emi Martinez: Goalkeeper (Argentina) 

Emiliano Martinez:मार्टिनेज को 11 साल तक नहीं मिला मौका, 2021 में किया डेब्यू, दो साल में बदली मेसी की तकदीर - Who Is Emiliano Martinez Know About Argentina's Goal Keeper Life Story,

Creator: Buda Mendes | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: Buda Mendes

Emi Martinez has been in top form for a couple of years now, but he outdid himself in the 2022 World Cup. The Argentine was ruthless while defending his goal. He saved his country in back-to-back penalty shootouts against Netherlands and France in the semi-finals and the finals of the 2022 World Cup, respectively. He also won the Golden Gloves for his outstanding performance in the tournament.

What do you think about this list? Do you think any other football player deserved a mention? Comment your answers.

Sanju Samson ruled out of T20Is vs Sri Lanka due to knee injury- God of Sports

Sanju Samson suffers knee injury; ruled out of T20I series against Sri Lanka

Kerala’s star wicketkeeper Sanju Samson has been ruled out of the remaining T20Is against Sri Lanka. The right-hander has suffered a knee injury after hurting his left knee during the first game in Mumbai.

During the first T20I, Sanju Samson made a diving attempt to take a catch which resulted in the injury. Although he caught the ball, he could not hold on to it after falling to the ground. He continued fielding in the match, but, it is learnt, he later experienced swelling, because of which he was asked to take medical advice by the BCCI Medical Team. Although, he is ruled out of the T20I series against Sri Lanka. It is unlikely that he will be available for the New Zealand series.

“Team India wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson has been ruled out of the remainder of the 3-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. Samson hurt his left knee while attempting to field a ball near the boundary ropes during the 1st T20I at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He was taken for scans and a specialist opinion this afternoon in Mumbai by the BCCI Medical Team and has been advised rest and rehabilitation,” BCCI said in a statement.

The wicketkeeper-batter did not travel with the Indian team to Pune, staying back in Mumbai for scans and a specialist opinion, and was advised rest and rehabilitation. Jitesh Sharma, the 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Vidarbha, has been named Samson’s replacement.

India’s updated squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.

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