Messi and Vinicius Frustrated in South American World Cup Qualifying

Messi and Vinicius Frustrated in South American World Cup Qualifying

Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Brazil’s Vinicius Júnior endured frustrating nights in South American World Cup qualifying on Thursday, November 14, 2024. Messi’s Argentina suffered a 2-1 defeat at Paraguay, while Vinicius Júnior missed a second-half penalty as Brazil was held to a 1-1 draw at Venezuela.

Argentina remains atop the 10-team round-robin competition with 22 points from 11 matches, while Brazil is provisionally in third place with 17 points. Ecuador also played on Thursday, beating Bolivia 4-0 to stay in fifth place with 16 points.

In Asuncion, Paraguay, Messi had few opportunities to touch the ball in the first half. However, Argentina took the lead in the 11th minute through Lautaro Martínez’s crossed shot. Paraguay equalized with a bicycle kick by Antonio Sanabria in the 19th minute, and Omar Alderete scored the winner with a header in the 47th minute.

Messi was visibly frustrated with the officiating, particularly after Alderete was not sent off for his aggressive tackles. “We came to a hard place where the national team always struggled,” said Martínez. “We have to correct a lot of things we did wrong in this match, but generally speaking we are playing well. We are still in the lead, and we have to look forward.”

In Maturin, Venezuela, Vinicius Júnior is still without a goal in six matches of World Cup qualifying. He had the chance to score a potential winner after earning a penalty in the 67th minute, but his low spot kick was saved by goalkeeper Rafael Romo.

Brazil had the best chances in the first half, with Vinicius hitting the post once after dribbling past three Venezuelans. Raphinha opened the scoring from a free kick in the 43rd minute, but Venezuela equalized through Telasco Segovia in the 46th minute.

Venezuela was reduced to 10 men in the 89th minute after Alexander Gonzalez was sent off for hitting both Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Júnior in the face. The irrigation system then came on two minutes before the final whistle at the Monumental Stadium, angering Brazil players.

“When we don’t win I leave the pitch a bit disappointed, we deserved to win this one,” said Raphinha. “But it is an important point playing away, we are working hard to win the next one at home.”

Influencer's Appearance in Top-Flight Match Sparks Outrage in Argentina

Influencer’s Appearance in Top-Flight Match Sparks Outrage in Argentina

Deportivo Riestra, an Argentinian football club, has sparked outrage within the country’s football community after fielding an influencer with no professional experience in its starting lineup for a top-flight match. The move has been widely condemned as disrespectful to the sport and its players.

The influencer, known as “Spreen,” is a popular streamer with millions of followers on social media. He was selected for Riestra’s match against Primera Division leaders Velez Sarsfield on Monday, but was substituted off after just 78 seconds without touching the ball.

Riestra’s decision to field Spreen has been met with widespread criticism from football figures in Argentina. Juan Sebastian Veron, the former Manchester United and Argentina midfielder and current president of Estudiantes de La Plata, condemned the move as a “total lack of respect for football and footballers.”

Velez striker Braian Romero also spoke out against the decision, saying it showed a “lack of respect towards football” and sent a “bad message to society, to children, to those who try until the end” to break into the sport.

Riestra captain Milton Celiz defended the decision, saying that Spreen was a friend of the club and that he should be allowed to enjoy the experience. However, he also acknowledged the criticism, saying that it was “not our responsibility (as players), it’s a matter for the owners (of the club).”

Riestra released a statement saying that it had informed Velez of its intention to field Spreen a week before the match. The club also stated that its objective was to attract new audiences to football and build bridges between different worlds.

The Argentinian Football Association (AFA) has asked its ethics committee to investigate the incident, citing “possible conduct that could damage Argentinian football’s reputation for integrity.”

Messi Uncertain About 2026 World Cup Participation

Messi Uncertain About 2026 World Cup Participation

Lionel Messi, the legendary Argentine footballer, remains uncertain about his future with the national team, including his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite achieving his childhood dream of winning the World Cup in 2022, Messi is taking a cautious approach to his decision.

In an interview with Fabrizio Romano, Messi expressed his indecision about playing in the next World Cup. “I don’t know,” he said. “I hope to finish this year well and start the year having a good preseason, which I didn’t have last year due to all the trips we had.”

Messi acknowledged the limited time remaining before the 2026 World Cup but emphasized his desire to take things day by day. “From there, I will see how I am doing and feeling,” he added. “We are close, but at the same time it’s a lot of time and anything can happen in football.”

The 37-year-old Messi has been in exceptional form since joining Inter Miami in the MLS. He has led Argentina to another Copa America title and continues to score goals with ease. However, he is aware that his career is nearing its end.

“I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future,” Messi said. “I’m just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games.”

Messi also discussed the current phase of his career with Argentina, where he is surrounded by younger teammates. “It’s a joy to be present and appreciate this moment,” he said. “Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again.”

As Messi contemplates his future, he remains focused on the present and contributing to the Argentine team. “As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying [the national team],” he added.

Messi Returns with Hat-Trick, Argentina Crushes Bolivia 6-0

Messi Returns with Hat-Trick, Argentina Crushes Bolivia 6-0

Lionel Messi returned to the Argentina national team with a bang, scoring a hat-trick and providing two assists in a 6-0 home win over Bolivia in a South American World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

The superstar, who missed the two rounds of the competition in October due to a right ankle injury, played from start to finish on Tuesday in front of raucous fans at the Monumental de Nuñez Stadium, who chanted his name after he opened the scoring in the 19th minute.

Messi’s first goal came after a mistake by a Bolivian defender, who missed a pass and allowed the 37-year-old Messi to run freely and finish unchallenged in front of goalkeeper Billy Viscarra.

The result kept the World Cup champions as leaders of the round-robin competition with 22 points after 10 matches, three points clear of second-place Colombia, who earlier beat Chile 4-0. Uruguay is in third position with 16 points after a goalless draw with Ecuador.

Messi’s second goal came in the 42nd minute, assisted by Lautaro Martínez. He then provided a decisive pass once again in added time on a goal by Julián Álvarez.

Argentina appeared to slow its pace after the break, but scored again with Thiago Almada in the 69th minute. The striker scored from close range after a low cross by Nahuel Molina.

Messi’s show had two great finishing touches from the edge of the box, the first in the 84th and the second in the 86th minute.

“We enjoyed this, we are happy to be here playing in Argentina,” said Messi, who once again refused to say whether he will play in the next World Cup in 2026. “This could be one of the last (matches in front of the Argentinian crowd).”

Bolivia, which is seeking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 30 years, remains in contention with 12 points.

Chile’s loss to Colombia has placed the job of coach Ricardo Gareca at risk. Davinson Sánchez, Luis Díaz, Jhon Durán, and Luis Sinistierra scored the goals for Colombia. Chile is in last place in the qualifying group with only five points.

Paraguay beat Venezuela 2-1 and moved into a qualifying position in the standings. Jon Aramburo opened the scoring for the visitors in the 25th minute, but striker Antonio Sarabia came from the bench to win it for the hosts with goals in the 59th and 74th minutes.

Two more rounds of South American World Cup qualifying will be played in November.

Messi Set for Argentina Return After Positive Fitness Update

Messi Set for Argentina Return After Positive Fitness Update

Argentina’s talisman Lionel Messi is set to make a timely return to international duty after receiving positive updates from Inter Miami manager Tata Martino. Messi has been sidelined since July due to an ankle ligament injury sustained in the Copa America 2024 final.

Martino confirmed that Messi is on track to regain full fitness for the MLS playoffs and the upcoming international window. “Leo is going to get better and better as he adds 90 minutes,” Martino said. “He needs a rhythm of competition, which gives me the idea that he is going to reach the playoffs very well.”

Messi has already made three appearances for Inter Miami since his return, scoring twice in a 3-1 win over Philadelphia Union. His impressive form has boosted Miami’s hopes of securing the Supporters’ Shield and the Eastern Conference title.

Martino emphasized the importance of prioritizing the team’s objectives before the FIFA international break. “We are in a decisive position to try to be first overall,” he said. “We will see how the games progress and what the needs are that we are having.”

Messi’s return to the Argentina squad will be a major boost for head coach Lionel Scaloni. The Albiceleste are set to face Brazil and Uruguay in crucial World Cup qualifiers in September. Messi’s experience and leadership will be invaluable as Argentina aims to secure a berth in the 2026 World Cup.

Messi's MLS Adventure Set to End, Return to Newell's Old Boys on Horizon

Messi’s MLS Adventure Set to End, Return to Newell’s Old Boys on Horizon

Lionel Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami in 2023 sent shockwaves through the football world. Despite his exceptional form and recent World Cup triumph, the Argentine maestro has reportedly set his sights on a return to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys.

Messi’s impact on Inter Miami has been undeniable. The team currently leads the MLS standings with four matches remaining, largely due to his 14 goals and 14 assists. However, sources close to the player suggest that he has no intention of retiring in Miami.

According to El Nacional, Messi has expressed a long-held desire to return to Newell’s Old Boys, where he began his football journey. In 2016, he stated, “If I go back to Argentina tomorrow, which I would love, the club I would be playing for would be Newell’s.”

Messi’s decision is influenced by both personal and professional factors. He has repeatedly voiced concerns about the safety and stability of Argentina, particularly for his family. Additionally, he has always maintained a strong emotional attachment to Newell’s Old Boys, where he spent his formative years.

While Messi’s departure from Inter Miami would be a significant loss, it would also mark a fitting end to his MLS adventure. He has already left an indelible mark on the league, inspiring a new generation of players and fans.

As Inter Miami prepares for the final stretch of the season, they will be determined to secure the Supporter’s Shield and make a deep playoff run. Messi’s leadership and brilliance will be crucial in their quest for success. However, the club must also begin planning for the future, knowing that their star player’s time in Miami is likely limited.

Argentina Clinches Davis Cup Final Berth with Finland Victory

Argentina Clinches Davis Cup Final Berth with Finland Victory

Argentina has secured a spot in the Davis Cup Final 8 after a hard-fought 3-0 victory over Finland in Manchester. The Argentines, who last reached the quarterfinals in 2018, overcame a challenging Group D that included a loss to defending champion Canada.

Tomas Martin Etcheverry opened the tie with a 7-6(5), 6-3 win over Eero Vasa, while Francisco Cerundolo battled past Otto Virtanen 6-7(4), 6-1, 6-0. The doubles pair of Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni sealed the victory with a 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-3 triumph over Patrick Kaukovalta and Harri Heliovaara.

Argentina’s victory puts pressure on host Britain, who must defeat Canada 3-0 on Sunday to advance.

In other Group D action, Brazil kept their hopes alive with a 2-1 win over Belgium. Joao Fonseca and Thiago Monteiro secured three-set victories, but the doubles match went to Belgium. Brazil can still qualify if the Netherlands lose 3-0 to Italy on Sunday.

In Group C, the United States earned a seeding in the Final 8 by topping Germany 2-1. Reilly Opelka saved two match points to defeat Henri Squire, while Brandon Nakashima cruised past Maximilian Marterer. The Americans lost their first point in nine matches when Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram fell to Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz in doubles.

In Group B, France defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 in a tie between teams already eliminated. The victory was sealed by a doubles win for France.

Juan Martin del Potro to Face Novak Djokovic in Farewell Exhibition Match

Juan Martin del Potro to Face Novak Djokovic in Farewell Exhibition Match

Tennis fans in Argentina are in for a special treat this December as former world No. 3 Juan Martin del Potro has announced an exhibition match against 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic. The match, dubbed “The Final Challenge,” will take place on December 1 at Parque Roca in Buenos Aires.

Del Potro, a beloved figure in Argentine tennis, has been sidelined by injuries in recent years but is eager to give his home fans one last unforgettable performance. The 35-year-old Tandil native played his last ATP match in February 2022 in Buenos Aires, marking the unofficial end of a storied career that included the 2009 US Open title and 22 ATP titles.

Despite his injury struggles, Del Potro has remained a fan favorite, known for his powerful forehand and fighting spirit. His return to the court, even in an exhibition capacity, is sure to generate immense excitement among Argentine tennis enthusiasts.

Djokovic, the current world No. 1, has been a dominant force in tennis for over a decade. The Serbian star has won 24 Grand Slam titles, the most among men in the Open Era. He is also a two-time Olympic champion and has held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 387 weeks.

The match between Del Potro and Djokovic is expected to be a thrilling spectacle, pitting two of the greatest players of their generation against each other. Del Potro will be looking to end his career on a high note, while Djokovic will be aiming to extend his dominance on the court.

The exhibition match is also a testament to the enduring popularity of tennis in Argentina. The country has produced numerous world-class players over the years, including Guillermo Vilas, Gabriela Sabatini, and David Nalbandian. Del Potro’s return to the court is sure to inspire a new generation of Argentine tennis stars.

Argentina Goalkeeper Martinez Accused of Assaulting Cameraman

Martinez slaps cameraman after loss against Colombia

​Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, is currently facing significant backlash after an unsettling incident that occurred following the national team’s 2-1 loss to Colombia in a World Cup qualifying match.​ The situation unfolded when Jhonny Jackson, a TV cameraman, accused Martínez of slapping him while capturing moments on the field. This unfortunate encounter has drawn attention from media and fans alike, prompting discussions about athletes’ behavior after tough defeats.

The incident took place in Barranquilla, Colombia, immediately after Argentina’s disappointing loss in the qualifying match. Jhonny Jackson, who works for Caracol Televisión and RCN Deportes, reported that he approached Martínez to film post-match reactions. Unexpectedly, he said that Martínez “slapped me,” highlighting the frustration of the goalkeeper after the team’s defeat.

In an interview following the incident, Jackson expressed his anger, stating, “Out of the blue he slapped me. I felt angry, very angry. I was working, just like he was”. His comments reflect a sentiment of disappointment not only about the physical encounter but also about the lack of professionalism displayed by a prominent athlete. Jackson shared that he approached Martínez as he was greeting other players, emphasizing a sense of normalcy before the altercation.

The incident has not gone unnoticed by the sports community. Colombia’s association of sports journalists, known as ACORD, has urged FIFA to take action against Martínez. The organization’s president, Faiver Hoyos Hernández, issued a statement condemning the goalkeeper’s actions, reinforcing that such behavior undermines freedom of expression and sets a poor example for future generations.

Despite the outcry, Martínez and CONMEBOL (the South American football governing body) have remained silent on the allegations. This lack of response has further fueled criticism, with many fans expressing their disappointment at how an athlete should conduct themselves, especially in high-stakes situations.

Argentina currently leads the South American World Cup qualifying with 18 points after eight matches, a narrow two-point advantage over Colombia. The pressure on players to perform well amidst these competitive standings serves as a backdrop to the event, illustrating how high emotions can lead to regrettable actions on the field and beyond.

Argentina Goalkeeper Martinez Accused of Assaulting Cameraman

Argentina Goalkeeper Martinez Accused of Assaulting Cameraman

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been accused of assaulting a cameraman after his team’s 2-1 loss to Colombia in a FIFA World Cup qualification match. The incident occurred in Barranquilla, where Martinez was seen pushing a camera away after a frustrating match in which he faced constant boos from the Colombian crowd.

Jhonny Jackson, the cameraman for Caracol Television and RCN Deportes, alleged that Martinez “slapped” him. Jackson stated that he pointed the camera at Martinez when the goalkeeper was shaking hands with another player. “Out of the blue, he slapped me. I felt angry, very angry. I was working, just like he was,” Jackson told RCN Deportes.

The Colombia Association of Sports Journalists (ACORD) has called on FIFA to take action against Martinez. “As the journalistic authority in this country, ACORD wants FIFA to produce an exemplary sanction against Mr. Emiliano Dibú Martínez, who is no role model for new generations,” said ACORD president Faiver Hoyos Hernández in a statement.

However, AP reports that Jackson later sent a reconciliatory message to Martinez. “Dibu, my brother, how are you? I am Jhonny Jackson, the cameraman you assaulted in the match against Colombia. I wanted to tell you it is all good, my brother. Everyone has lost a match in their life. This defeat clearly meant a lot to you. But look ahead, Dibu,” Jackson said.

In the match itself, Colombia avenged their Copa America final loss to Argentina with a 2-1 victory. Captain James Rodriguez scored from the penalty spot and assisted on the opening goal by Yerson Mosquera. Argentina equalized through Nico Gonzalez, but Rodriguez’s penalty in the 60th minute secured the win for Colombia.

Despite the loss, Argentina remain top of the South American World Cup qualifying standings with 18 points after eight matches, two points ahead of Colombia. All teams have two more qualifying matches next month, with the top six teams earning automatic spots at the 2026 World Cup.

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