Football

Former Brazil Defender Ze Carlos Passes Away at 56Former Brazil full-back Ze Carlos, a member of the 1998 World Cup runner-up squad, has passed away at the age of 56. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but local media reports suggest it was due to cardiac arrest.Ze Carlos, born Jose Carlos de Almeida, played for Sao Paulo from 1997 to 1999. He was a surprise inclusion in the 1998 World Cup squad, replacing Flavio Conceicao. Despite being uncapped at the time, he made his international debut in the semi-final against the Netherlands, replacing the suspended Cafu. Brazil won the match on penalties, but Ze Carlos was an unused substitute in the final, a 3-0 defeat to France.Ze Carlos's only other international appearance came in a friendly against Yugoslavia in 1999. He retired from professional football in 2005.Sao Paulo FC released a statement expressing their condolences: "It is with great sorrow that Sao Paulo FC announce the death of Jose Carlos de Almeida, Ze Carlos, this Friday in Osasco, near Sao Paulo."Ze Carlos's passing is a sad loss for the football world. He was a talented defender who represented his country with pride. His contributions to the 1998 World Cup squad will always be remembered.

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.

Johan Neeskens, a legendary Dutch footballer who played a pivotal role in the development of "total football" in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 73. Neeskens was an integral member of the Ajax and Netherlands teams that captivated the world with their innovative and dominant style of play.As a midfielder, Neeskens possessed exceptional tackling skills, sublime vision, and an uncanny ability to convert penalties. He was a key figure in Ajax's three consecutive European Cup triumphs from 1971 to 1973. Alongside Johan Cruyff, Neeskens formed a formidable partnership that revolutionized the game.Neeskens' impact extended beyond the club level. He was a vital cog in the "Clockwork Oranje" Dutch national team that reached the World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978. His 49 caps for the Netherlands showcased his unwavering commitment and exceptional talent.After retiring from playing, Neeskens embarked on a successful coaching career, sharing his knowledge and expertise around the world. Despite his fierce competitive spirit on the pitch, Neeskens was known for his gentle and compassionate nature off the field. He was a devoted family man and a respected figure in the football community.The Dutch football federation (KNVB) paid tribute to Neeskens, describing him as "a legend" and "one of the leading players that Dutch football has ever produced." Ajax and Barcelona, where Neeskens played after leaving Ajax, also expressed their condolences and hailed him as a true icon.Johan Neeskens' legacy will forever be etched in the annals of football history. His contributions to the development of "total football" and his unwavering passion for the game have left an enduring mark on the sport. His passing is a profound loss for the football world, and his memory will continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.

Japan's national football team, the Samurai Blue, made a resounding statement in the third round of Asian World Cup qualifiers, thrashing China 7-0 in Saitama on Thursday (September 5, 2024).Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma, returning from injury, marked his comeback with a first-half header, while Liverpool's Wataru Endo opened the scoring with a set-piece goal. Takumi Minamino added two more goals after the break, putting Japan in complete control against a Chinese side desperate to qualify for their first World Cup since 2002.Junya Ito, also making his first appearance for Japan since the Asian Cup, extended the lead before late goals from Daizen Maeda and Takefusa Kubo capped a dominant performance from Hajime Moriyasu's side.Despite the one-sided scoreline, Endo emphasized that the victory was not easy. "We came onto the pitch with positive energy," he said. "We got the first goal from a set piece and then we played our own football and the goals kept coming. We got the three points and it was a great game."China, who qualified for the third qualifying round thanks to a superior head-to-head record over Thailand, had a night to forget. "Japan are very strong. They are the top team in Asia and it's not just Asia -- they are a world-class team," said China's Croatian coach Branko Ivankovic.Japan and China have been drawn together in a tricky-looking Group C, which also includes Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Indonesia. The top two teams in the group will qualify for the World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed sides will enter a further round of qualifying.Japan's next match is an away fixture against Bahrain on Tuesday (September 3, 2024), while China will host Saudi Arabia on the same day.

Manuel Neuer, the legendary German goalkeeper who lifted the 2014 World Cup trophy, has bid farewell to international football at the age of 38. With 124 caps and 61 appearances as captain, Neuer leaves an indelible mark on the German national team.His final international outing came in the heartbreaking quarter-final defeat to Spain at Euro 2024. Despite the disappointment, Neuer's legacy remains untarnished. He was the undisputed star of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, earning the Golden Glove award as Germany triumphed for the fourth time.Neuer's decision to retire was not made lightly. After consulting with his family and holding extensive discussions with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, he concluded that the time was right to step away from international duty."I was tempted to play until the 2026 World Cup, but I am convinced that now is the right time to take this step," Neuer wrote on social media. "I want to concentrate fully on playing for Bayern Munich."Neuer's Bayern career has been equally illustrious. He has won two Champions League titles and 11 Bundesliga crowns with the Bavarian giants. This season's Champions League final will be played at Munich's Allianz Arena, providing Neuer with a fitting stage to showcase his brilliance.Despite a serious leg injury sustained in a skiing accident in December 2022, Neuer returned to the Germany squad in time for Euro 2024. He reclaimed his starting spot and played a pivotal role in the team's run to the quarter-finals."It was a great time which shaped me and of which I am very proud," Neuer said. "Winning the World Cup title in 2014 and the special atmosphere during the European Championship at home this year are highlights for which I am extremely grateful."Neuer's retirement follows in the footsteps of fellow 2014 World Cup winners Thomas Mueller and Toni Kroos, who both announced their international retirements after Euro 2024. Current Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan has also stepped down from international duty.Neuer's departure leaves a void in the German goalkeeping ranks. Marc Andre ter Stegen of Barcelona is expected to take over as the number one goalkeeper, having served as Neuer's long-time backup.

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.

Xherdan Shaqiri, the Swiss football legend, has bid farewell to international football after an illustrious career spanning 14 years. The 32-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for Chicago Fire in the United States, announced his retirement on Monday, leaving behind a legacy as one of Switzerland's most decorated players.Shaqiri made his international debut in March 2010 at the tender age of 18. Since then, he has amassed an impressive 125 caps for the Swiss national team, becoming the second most-capped player behind his teammate Granit Xhaka. The former Bayern Munich and Liverpool star represented his country at four World Cups and three European Championships, showcasing his exceptional talent on the global stage.Throughout his international career, Shaqiri has been a pivotal figure for Switzerland, contributing with both goals and assists. He is Switzerland's fourth top goalscorer with 32 goals, trailing only Alexander Frei, Kubilay Turkyilmaz, and Max Abegglen. His memorable performances include scoring in the penalty shoot-out against England in the Euro 2024 quarter-final, which turned out to be his final game for the Nati.In a heartfelt message on social media, Shaqiri expressed his gratitude for the unforgettable moments he experienced with the Swiss national team. "Seven tournaments, many goals, 14 years with the Swiss national team and unforgettable moments. It's time to say goodbye to the national team. Great memories remain and I say to you all: thank you!"Shaqiri's retirement marks the end of an era for Swiss football. His exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and infectious enthusiasm have inspired a generation of young players. He leaves behind a legacy of success and will be remembered as one of the greatest Swiss footballers of all time.

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.

Spain's dominance in European football continues as they triumph in the 2026 World Cup final, adding to their record-breaking four European Championship titles. Their victory is a testament to their exceptional footballing prowess, showcasing a slick and sharp style of play that has set them apart.The tournament witnessed Spain's unwavering dominance, with seven consecutive victories leading up to the final in Berlin. Their 3-0 rout of Croatia in the opening match set the tone for their impressive run. Against England in the final, Spain maintained their relentless pressure, with Nico Williams scoring the opening goal. Cole Palmer briefly revived England's hopes, but Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain's lead. Dani Olmo's crucial clearance in the dying minutes sealed the victory for Spain.Spain's triumph is attributed to their exceptional young talents, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who have added speed, strength, and width to the team. Yamal's role in the first goal, setting up Williams, highlighted their ability to create scoring opportunities.Despite England's possession deficit, they managed to equalize through Palmer's stunning strike. However, Oyarzabal's timely run and goal regained Spain's advantage. England's late efforts, including a header from Marc Guehi, were thwarted by Olmo's heroic clearance.Spain's victory marks a new era for the team, who have also claimed the 2023 Nations League title. Their success is a testament to their unwavering commitment to beautiful football and their ability to produce exceptional players.