Football

Argentina's Olympic football campaign got back on track with a 3-1 victory over Iraq on Saturday, while Spain and Japan became the first teams to secure quarter-final berths.After a chaotic opening defeat to Morocco, Argentina bounced back in Lyon with goals from Thiago Almada, Luciano Gondou, and Ezequiel Fernandez. Iraq's Aymen Hussein had equalized in the first half, but Argentina's second-half dominance proved too much.In the same group, Ukraine snatched a dramatic 2-1 win over Morocco in the dying seconds, leaving all four teams level on three points.Spain, the Tokyo silver medallists, also made it two wins from two in Group C with a 3-1 victory over the Dominican Republic. Fermin Lopez, Alex Baena, and Miguel Gutierrez scored for Spain, who are now through to the last eight.Egypt's 1-0 win over Uzbekistan in Nantes also helped Spain's cause, as it eliminated the Central Asian nation.Thierry Henry's France team edged Guinea 1-0 in Nice, with Kiliann Sildillia's late header proving decisive. France are not yet through from Group A, but they need only a point against New Zealand on Tuesday to guarantee progress.Japan, the Asian Under-23 champions, secured their quarter-final berth with a 1-0 victory against Mali in Bordeaux. Rihito Yamamoto scored the only goal in the 82nd minute, despite Mali having a late penalty chance.In Group D, Paraguay scored twice in stoppage time to beat Israel 4-2 in an entertaining game in Paris. Marcelo Fernandez scored twice for Paraguay, who are now level on points with Japan.

Argentina's Olympic football campaign got off to a dramatic start as they came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Morocco in a hostile atmosphere in Saint-Etienne. Javier Mascherano's side were booed by the crowd, who were largely supporting Morocco, and trailed 2-0 to a Soufiane Rahimi brace. However, Giuliano Simeone pulled one back before Cristian Medina equalized in the 106th minute.Morocco took the lead in first-half stoppage time when Rahimi finished off a fine move set up by Paris Saint-Germain full-back Achraf Hakimi. The reigning African Under-23 champions doubled their lead six minutes into the second half when Rahimi converted a penalty after Ilias Akhomach was brought down.Argentina fought back and Simeone, son of former Argentina star Diego, pulled one back midway through the second half. Medina then saved a point in the 106th minute, turning in a rebound after Otamendi's shot was turned onto the bar and Bruno Amione headed the follow-up off the woodwork.As Argentina celebrated, projectiles rained down from the stands and several spectators entered the pitch, prompting the referee to blow for full-time.In Group C, Spain edged Uzbekistan 2-1 in their opener at the Parc des Princes in Paris. Sergio Gomez's free-kick was helped on by Abel Ruiz to the back post where Marc Pubill turned the ball in. Uzbekistan drew level from the penalty spot in first-half added time, but Gomez made up for his earlier penalty miss by grabbing the winner just after the hour.

Football ignited the flame of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on Tuesday, with Spain and Argentina, the reigning FIFA World Cup and Copa America champions, respectively, taking center stage in Paris and Saint-Etienne.At Parc des Princes in western Paris, Spain faced Uzbekistan, while Argentina, without Lionel Messi, encountered Morocco at Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium in Saint-Étienne. Spain's Marc Pubill etched his name in history by scoring the first goal of the Summer Games in the 29th minute.FIFA president Gianni Infantino graced the occasion, meeting players before the Uzbekistan-Spain match at Parc des Princes, the former home of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe.As the beautiful game kickstarted the action-packed Summer Olympics in Paris, let's delve into the world of football and highlight some of the biggest names vying for Olympic gold:Marta (Brazil)Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, Marta, is set to retire from international football after the Paris Games. The 38-year-old legend captains the Selecao and holds the distinction of being the first footballer to score in five consecutive Olympic Games.Aitana Bonmati (Spain)Spain, the reigning world champions, boast Aitana Bonmati, the 2023 Ballon d'Or winner, as their star player. The European giants are making their debut in women's football at the Summer Games in Paris, having lost only twice in 14 matches since their historic FIFA World Cup triumph over England.Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is a prominent figure at the Summer Olympics. The 25-year-old led Morocco to the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and has opted to miss PSG's pre-season preparations to compete in the Games.Alexandre Lacazette (France)Thierry Henry's choice to lead France in the Summer Games is Alexandre Lacazette. The former Arsenal forward has not played for France since 2017 but has been an impressive force for Lyon, scoring 22 goals in 35 games last season.Julian Alvarez (Argentina)Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez arrives in Paris after a stellar season with Pep Guardiola's side. The 22-year-old was instrumental in Manchester City's Premier League triumph and also lifted the Copa America with Argentina.

Lionel Messi and Argentina have once again proven their dominance in international football, securing their second consecutive Copa America title with a thrilling extra-time victory over Colombia. The triumph marks a significant milestone for the Argentine team, drawing comparisons to the legendary Spanish squad that reigned supreme from 2008 to 2012.Despite Messi's absence due to an injury in the second half, Argentina showcased their resilience and determination, thriving without their talismanic captain. Lautaro Martinez's extra-time goal sealed the victory, sending the Argentine fans into raptures.The win has reignited the debate over the greatest of all time (GOAT) between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. While Ronaldo and Portugal faltered in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-finals, Messi's Argentina have continued to soar, adding the Copa America title to their World Cup triumph in 2022.Angel Di Maria, Messi's former Real Madrid teammate, weighed in on the GOAT debate, stating, "The best is the one who has more Ballons d'Or, and Messi has eight. For me, therefore there is some distance between him and Cristiano."Meanwhile, Messi is currently sidelined with a ligament injury. He was spotted in the stands during Inter Miami's victory over Toronto FC, wearing a walking boot on his right ankle. Head coach Tata Martino provided an update on Messi's condition, indicating that his recovery will be evaluated week by week.Argentina's Copa America triumph has further cemented their status as one of the most formidable teams in the world. With Messi at the helm, they will be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, where they will aim to defend their title and etch their names in the annals of football history.

Lionel Messi, the undisputed maestro of football, has etched his name in the annals of the sport with an unparalleled career that has embodied excellence like no other. From his humble beginnings in Rosario, Argentina, to his global stardom, Messi's journey has been a testament to his unwavering determination and extraordinary talent.Messi's international career has been a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by both triumph and heartbreak. After a disappointing 2016 Copa America final loss, Messi announced his retirement from international football, sending shockwaves through the world of football. However, the outpouring of support from fans and the realization of his unfinished business with Argentina led to his return.In 2021, Messi led Argentina to their first Copa America title in 28 years, breaking a long-standing drought. The following year, he guided his team to the pinnacle of football, winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Messi's performances in both tournaments were nothing short of magical, as he showcased his exceptional skills and leadership qualities.The 2024 Copa America saw Messi and Argentina defend their title, making it an incredible three-in-three in international competitions. Messi's contributions were once again pivotal, as he surpassed Ali Daei as the second-highest international goal-scorer in history.Messi's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements. He has inspired a generation of young players and has become a symbol of hope and pride for Argentinians. His unwavering determination, coupled with his exceptional talent, has made him one of the greatest players to ever grace the beautiful game.

Lionel Messi's Copa America triumph was bittersweet as he was forced to exit the final early due to an ankle injury. The 37-year-old superstar, who had been hoping to play in his sixth World Cup in 2026, was visibly distraught as he left the pitch in the 64th minute.Despite the pain, Messi's tears revealed a deeper anguish. He had won the Copa, but his dream of playing in another World Cup was slipping away. The injury, which he sustained in the second group match against Chile, had hampered him throughout the tournament.Messi's absence was felt in the final, as Argentina struggled to break down a resilient Colombia side. However, the team showed its resilience and determination, eventually winning 1-0 in extra time.The victory marked Argentina's second consecutive Copa America title, but it was a bittersweet moment for Messi. He celebrated his triumph with a limp, and the injury still lingered on Monday.Messi's future with the national team is now uncertain. He has not ruled out playing in the 2026 World Cup, but his age and fitness will be major factors in his decision.If Messi does retire from international football, he will leave behind a legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. He has won countless trophies with Argentina and Barcelona, and he has inspired a generation of young players.However, Argentina has a bright future, even without Messi. The team has a number of talented young players, such as Alejandro Garnacho, Valentín Carboni, and Thiago Almada, who can help the team remain competitive in the years to come.

Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma's iconic slow-walk celebration, inspired by Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, has become a popular gesture in the sporting world. After Messi's memorable celebration following Argentina's FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022, Rohit recreated the moment after India's T20 World Cup victory last year.Now, Messi has once again performed the slow-walk celebration, this time after Argentina's 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final on Monday. However, this time, Messi shared the spotlight with Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi, who lifted the trophy alongside him.Argentina's Copa America triumph marks their third consecutive major tournament victory, following their 2021 Copa America and 2022 FIFA World Cup wins. This achievement makes them the first South American team to accomplish this feat.The victory was particularly special for Di Maria, who announced his retirement from international football after the match. "I dreamed it, I dreamed that I retired like this," he said. "I have so many beautiful feelings. I am eternally grateful to this generation that made me achieve what I sought so much."Messi's latest triumph adds to his already impressive collection of 45 team accolades, making him the most decorated player in football history. The World Champions dominated the Copa America tournament, topping Group A and defeating Ecuador, Canada, and Colombia en route to the title.

Argentines, grappling with a severe economic crisis marked by rampant inflation and widespread poverty, have found solace in their national football team's recent triumphs. The Copa América victory in 2021, the Finalissima win in 2022, and the World Cup triumph in Qatar have provided fleeting moments of joy and distraction from the country's dire financial situation.The economic crisis has left an indelible mark on Argentina. Inflation has soared to over 270%, and nearly 60% of the population lives in poverty. Argentines are constantly bombarded with news of anti-government protests, labor strikes, and austerity measures. The peso has plummeted in value, eroding the savings of many.Amidst this economic turmoil, the national football team has emerged as a beacon of hope. The team's success has ignited a sense of national pride and unity, offering a respite from the daily struggles of life. For many Argentines, watching their team play provides a much-needed escape from the harsh realities of their country.The team's recent victories have also brought a sense of nostalgia, as it marks the end of an era for some of Argentina's greatest players. Lionel Messi, the team's talisman, has hinted at retirement, while Ángel Di María has announced that the Copa América final was his last match for the national team.Despite the economic challenges, Argentines have rallied behind their team, filling the streets of Buenos Aires and other cities to celebrate their victories. The national flag and jerseys have become symbols of hope and resilience, uniting Argentines in a shared sense of pride.However, some Argentines have expressed concern that the team's success may come at a cost. They point to the economic crises that followed Argentina's previous World Cup victories in 1978 and 1986. Others argue that the team's triumphs are a much-needed distraction from the country's problems, providing a sense of unity and purpose.As Argentina navigates its economic challenges, the national football team will continue to play a significant role in the lives of its citizens. The team's victories offer a glimmer of hope and a reminder of the country's resilience and passion for the beautiful game.

Argentina emerged victorious in the 2024 Copa America, defeating Colombia 1-0 in a thrilling final at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. This triumph marks Argentina's 16th Copa America title, surpassing Uruguay as the most successful team in the tournament's history.The match was marred by crowd trouble, delaying the start by over an hour. However, once the action got underway, Argentina dominated possession in the first half of extra time. Despite their dominance, it was Colombia who looked more threatening.The game took a dramatic turn in the 64th minute when Argentina's talisman, Lionel Messi, was forced off the field with an apparent leg injury. Messi had been struggling with discomfort throughout the tournament and his departure was a major blow to Argentina's hopes.Despite Messi's absence, Argentina continued to press forward. In the 111th minute, Lautaro Martinez received a pass from Giovanni Lo Celso and fired a shot past Colombia goalkeeper Camilo Vargas to secure the victory.Argentina's triumph is a testament to their resilience and determination. They overcame adversity, including Messi's injury and the crowd trouble, to claim their second consecutive Copa America title.