Soccer World Cup 2022 - The South African https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/ South Africa News Tue, 20 Aug 2024 07:09:23 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cropped-TSA-Logos-TSA-320px-x-320px-02-1-1-32x32.png Soccer World Cup 2022 - The South African https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/ 32 32 Kaizer Chiefs table an offer for Nabi’s favourite son https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/kaizer-chiefs-table-an-offer-for-nabis-favourite-son/ Tue, 20 Aug 2024 07:09:09 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2160059 Kaizer Chiefs reportedly made an offer to Egyptian side Pyramids for striker Fiston Mayele.

The 30-year-old has been in hot form since joining the Egyptian Premier League. His side Pyramids narrowly lost the league to Al Ahly last season having top of the log for most of the campaign.

Kaizer Chiefs under Nasreddine Nabi have made an offer for Mayele having targeted the player for several months. In his last season at Yanga SC, the Congolese striker scored a total of 31 goals under Nabi and might be tempered to work with his ex-coach.

Pyramids are set to be looking at around R14 million to release their prized striker. According to Phakaaathi, Nabi has told the Chiefs management that he wants Mayele on his team.

Kaizer Chiefs make an offer for Mayele

“Coach (Nasreddine) Nabi has made it clear to the Chiefs management that he wants Mayele and now Chiefs have sent an offer to Pyramids. They’re now waiting for Pyramids to accept or reject it,” a source told Phakaathi.

In recent weeks, Kaizer Chiefs have had their offer for Asanele Velebayi rejected by Cape Town Spurs. The Soweto giants also tried to sign Stellenbosch’s Fawaaz Basadien but were told their offer was too low. Now Amakhosi have turned their attention to Mayele and the club’s former striker Kabamba Musasa has urged the club to sign the Congolese star.

“Kalala will be a good signing for Chiefs without a doubt because it is the coach who wants him, Musasa told KickOff.

“It will be an upgrade for him to move from Pyramids considering the size of the two clubs. I played for Chiefs so I understand what it means to play for a club like that,” he said.

It remains to be seen if Pyramids would take or reject Kaizer Chiefs’ offer. Nabi has previously stated that his side needs to make a few more signings to be competitive this season.

How many signings do Chiefs need to make this season?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. You can also send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for your social fix.

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Orlando Pirates striker was mentioned in the same breath as Di Maria, Benzema https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/psl-south-africa/orlando-pirates-striker-mentioned-same-breath-di-maria-benzema/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 05:43:01 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=2079082 Orlando Pirates striker Kermit Erasmus was once mentioned in the same company as Angel Di Maria and Karim Benzema. What’s happened?


KERMIT WAS WORLD-FAMOUS

World Soccer Magazine named Erasmus one of the 50 most talented young players in world football in a piece titled “The 50 most exciting teenagers on the planet” in 2007. That list included Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema, Man City’s all-time leading goal-scorer Sergio Aguero, World Cup winner Angel Di Maria, five-time Champions League winner Gareth Bale and 2007 Golden Boy winner Alexandre Pato. Kermit has represented 11 clubs across five countries throughout his career. That’s impressive, in a way, but also indicates that he never quite settled and called one club home for an extended spell. His transfer value peaked in 2016 when he was with Rennes in France’s Ligue 1, and it’s been a steady decline since.

Latest PSL transfer rumours
The Latest PSL transfer rumours. Photo: Backpagepix

Di Maria has always been Argentina’s man for the big occasion

Playmaker Ángel Fabián Di María has had a truly stellar career. From Rosario Central in his native Argentina to Lisbon giants Benfica and everything in between, he’s done it all. He’s scored in a winning World Cup final, he scored the winner in a Copa America final, he was the Man of the Match in the 2014 Champions League final and he even scored the only goal in the 2008 Olympic Games Gold Medal match against Nigeria.


Severely underrated

Now 36 and in the twilight of his fabled career, the left-footed magician still creates chances for teammates. This season in the Portuguese top-flight he has eight goals and 10 assists in 25 appearances for Benfica. Show us a player with more BMT in world football. Big game credentials and stints with European giants Real Madrid, PSG, Juventus and Benfica cement his status as one of this generation’s greats. Not even an awful period at Man United can undermine that.

Laduma! Viral soccer goals: Juventus' Ángel Di María [VIDEO]
Angel Di Maria’s sublime goal sparked wild celebrations. Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

THE CURRENT SITUATION FOR ERASMUS

Kermit Erasmus’ Bucs contract expires in June 2024. A source close to Soccer-Laduma reveals the club will decide on his future soon. However, they’re leaning towards releasing the former Feyenoord, Rennes, Lens, Sundowns and SuperSport star. Overall, he’s made 117 appearances for Pirates in two stints, scoring 26 goals and supplying 19 assists. His career in South Africa includes three DStv Premiership crowns and a Nedbank Cup win. For a guy who was once mentioned in the same breath as future World Cup winner Di Maria, this is perhaps an underwhelming summary of his long career.


SOUTH AFRICAN STORY SET FOR A NEW CHAPTER?

The seasoned striker has spent stints in France, Portugal and the Netherlands before settling back into South African football in 2019. When he leaves Pirates at the end of the campaign, there won’t be a shortage of suitors to bring him on board. Where will he end up? There’s still plenty of value left in the old legs.

Pirates Nedbank Cup Erasmus
Kermit Erasmus of Orlando Pirates celebrates victory with fans during the DStv Premiership 2022/23 football match between Swallows FC and Orlando Pirates at Dobsonville Stadium, Johannesburg on 03 March 2023 ©Gavin Barker/BackpagePix.

What’s your overall assessment of Kermit Erasmus’ career?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest DStv Premiership news.

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Pirates coach defends Buthelezi’s blunder https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/pirates-coach-defends-buthelezis-blunder-23-december-2023/ Sat, 23 Dec 2023 20:11:27 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1927998 Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro spoke about Melusi Buthelezi’s blunder which saw SuperSport United beat the Buccaneers 3-1 in Polokwane on Saturday evening.

Buthelezi kept five clean sheets in his last six league games, but was at fault for two goals scored by Matsatsantsa.

ALSO READ: BREAKING: Kaizer Chiefs give an update on Itumeleng Khune

Pirates coach Jose Riveiro defended his keeper after the match.

“Nothing, they are professional football players,” he said when asked by iDiski Times what he told Buthulezi after his blunder.

Pirates coach not blaming keeper for SuperSport defeat

“They are here to perform and sometimes make mistakes. Everybody makes mistakes in our professions, right?

“We are not super heroes, we don’t do everything perfect and it was a mistake but football is a game of mistakes,” said the Pirates coach.

ALSO READ: Khama Billiat and Kaizer Chiefs to kiss and make up?

“Sometimes mistakes finish in goals, we also made a mistake in the first one, now we are looking to the keeper but if you see the first goal that we concede this is even more serious than other one. Even the second one is more serious than the third one.

“Nothing to say tonight to the individuals. I think they tried to play good football but it’s difficult to say that with a 3-1 against.”

ALSO READ: Kaizer Chiefs’ top earners play the least games?

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY ELIOT MAHLASE

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Lionel Messi’s 2022 World Cup jerseys up for auction https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/lionel-messi-2022-fifa-world-cup-jerseys-up-for-auction-breaking-news-20-november-2023/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 13:15:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1886763 A set of six jerseys that Lionel Messi wore during Argentina’s victorious 2022 World Cup run will be auctioned in December, Sotheby’s announced on Monday, estimating their value at $10 million (R184.4 million).

ALSO READ | Ex-Kaizer Chiefs player doesn’t have the right attitude, says Broos

The football star donned these shirts during the first halves of the group-stage rounds against Saudi Arabia and Mexico, as well as later games against Australia, the Netherlands and Croatia – and the final against France.

Argentina’s winning run in Qatar last year was the final feather in the forward’s cap, having failed to secure the championship in four previous World Cups.

If the jerseys indeed fetch above $10 million, that could make the sale the most valuable collection of sports memorabilia ever auctioned off, Sotheby’s said.

MUST READ | Khune slammed for disclosing fellow Kaizer Chiefs player’s mental health struggles

The most expensive individual jersey ever sold at auction was one that basketball legend Michael Jordan wore during his NBA finals run with the Chicago Bulls in 1998.

It sold for $10.1 million last year.

Auction houses have increasingly taken note of sports memorabilia in recent years, considered a growing market.

ALSO READ | Chiefs, Pirates and Sundowns in a fight for Mailula, Hlongwane?

The shirts are being brought to auction by US tech startup AC Momento, which helps athletes manage memorabilia collections.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the UNICAS Project, an initiative with a Barcelona children’s hospital that helps kids with rare diseases.

The jerseys will be available for free public viewing when they are up for auction, from November 30 to December 14.

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

MUST SEE | Sekhukhune find Truter’s replacement

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Gavin Hunt full of praise for Grant Margeman https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/gavin-hunt-full-of-praise-for-grant-margeman-psl-news-27-august-2023/ Sun, 27 Aug 2023 12:06:54 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1762049 SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt has praised his midfielder Grant Margeman for his work in the middle of the park.

The stocky midfielder scored the winner for Matsatsantsa in their 2-1 win over Stellenbosch FC 2-1 at the Danie Craven Stadium in Cape Town.

SuperSport United came from a goal behind to claim all three points and move second in the DStv Premiership table. Gavin Hunt’s side are five points behind Mamelodi Sundowns but have a game in hand over their Tshwane rivals.

ALSO READ: Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns CAF opponents confirmed

Hunt gets SuperSport United to a flying start

Margeman completed a permanent move away from Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of the current season and so far, has been one of the best-performing midfielders in the league. His coach Gavin Hunt said Margeman can get better if he just need to be more consistent.

“Ja [it’s an instruction from me], he’s got that in his make-up but he doesn’t do it enough, I think he’s got so much speed over 10, 15 metres he can play combinations,” Hunt said.

ALSO READ: Banyana Banyana climb in latest Fifa rankings BUT….

“We don’t play with defensive midfield players and attacking midfield players, I don’t believe in that – so we need to understand the moments of the game.

“And he’s good in those moments, he can give us more, but the games he’s played here, he’s been good for us – long may it continue but yes, it’s an instruction from me,” Hunt added.

ALSO READ: Mamelodi Sundowns winger set for an EXIT

Margeman giving United the edge

United are so far unbeaten in the league having won three games and drawn just once in their opening four games.

Hunt’s SuperSport United will next face Golden Arrows on Tuesday.

ALSO READ: Kaizer Chiefs target given the boot by Al Ahly

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY ELIOT MAHLASE

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FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-2022-qatar-all-the-best-pictures-17-may-2023/ Wed, 17 May 2023 09:35:26 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1397724 FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar will be forever remembered as the time when Africa made the final four. It will also be fondly cherished for its stunning upsets, and the time that Lionel Messi ended a 36-year World Cup drought for his beloved Argentina.

Here are the best enduring images from an unforgettable tournament.

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers

Howzit Benni McCarthy my bru: Here’s how Man United can beat Man City to win the FA Cup


FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar: Best images

Argentina lose to Saudi Arabia

That feels like a long time ago doesn’t it? The eventual champions, losing to a minnow team, on the opening day of a tournament. This is why we love football. The following day was declared a public holiday in Saudi Arabia.

fifa world cup 2022
Lionel Messi and his dejected teammates after a shock FIFA World Cup 2022 defeat to Saudi Arabia. Photo by MANAN VATSYAYANA / AFP)

A young Senegal fan roars on the Lions of Teranga

Senegal made it to the round of 16 before bowing out to England, but that didn’t stop their fans from roaring them on in Qatar.

world cup 2022
England’s pursuit of a first major trophy in 56 years will be tested by African champions Senegal in Sunday’s World Cup action. Photo by OZAN KOSE / AFP

Argentina beat Netherlands on penalties

The La Albiceleste players weren’t afraid to rub it in the Dutch players’ faces either. Controversial, sure, but who cares? This is what the World Cup is all about. Pure passion.

World Cup 2022
Argentina players ecstatic after their penalty shootout win over The Netherlands. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

The Pride of Morocco’s Atlas Lions

Morocco’s miraculous run to the semifinals made the entire world sit up and take notice. In their defeat to France, they certainly had their chances in the second-half. On another day, who knows? One thing is certain though: Morocco will be back for more, and so will their adoring fans.

Morocco fans at World Cup 2022
Morocco fans in Rabat, celebrating a momentous occasion for Morocco, Africa and the Arab world. Photo by FADEL SENNA / AFP)

Japan’s comeback kings

The Blue Samurai thrilled World Cup audiences with come-from-behind wins against Spain and Germany in the group stages. In the round of 16, they were in the unfamiliar position of leading a match when they struck first against Croatia. Losing to Croatia, a team that has now won four consecutive penalty shootouts at World Cups, is no disgrace.

GOAT? Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years

Japan Blue Samurai
Japan produced a spirited fightback against Germany. Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)

Kylian Mbappé us a force of nature

This image of the PSG man almost looks cartoonish, and a lot of what Kylian Mbappé produces on a football pitch really is stuff that can only be conjured up in the vivid imagination of a young mind. What a player.

Mbappe
The irrepressible Kylian Mbappe. Photo by Antonin THUILLIER / AFP)

Spare a thought for him though, he scored a hat-trick in the final (the first man to do so since 1966) and still wound up on the losing side. His time will come again, that’s for sure. He’s not 24 until tomorrow. He played a vital part in what was surely one of the greatest World Cup finals we’ve ever seen.

Kylian Mbappé: These ridiculous numbers don’t make sense

Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

Lionel Messi is the GOAT and you know it

Hang this one on the Louvre. Having now won the biggest prize to have eluded him, surely this debate is now over. Four-time Champions League winner, Olympic Gold medal winner, seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and now champion of the world.

ICYMI: Argentina 2-2 France – MY thoughts after a breathless 90 minutes

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi wins Player of the Tournament

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

An image that would warm even the coldest of hearts.

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi sharing a once-in-a-lifetime moment with his family. Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)

Di María selection pays off big time

Angel Di María scored an exquisite counter-attacking goal in last night’s final which brought him to tears. It goes alongside his Copa América final winning goal against Brazil in 2021 and his strike in the Olympic Gold medal match in 2008. What a player he’s been, and Lionel Scaloni’s decision to bring him into the side last night looks like a wise choice. Also, check out Kun Agüero in the background there.

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi Angel Di Maria
Argentina’s two goal-scorers on their day of destiny. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

The World Cup 2022 winners

Remember when Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia on November 22nd and “football experts” were writing their obituary? Yeah, that feels like a long time ago now. It remains their only defeat since 2019, and in many ways it was a result that started a fire under their backsides.

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
Argentina are champions of the world for the first time since 1986. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

The scenes in Rosario

And, finally, back to where it all began for the great man. The La Bajada neighbourhood in Rosario, Argentina will never be the same again.

Lionel Messi
Fans of Argentina celebrate at La Bajada neighbourhood, where Messi lived as a child. Photo by STR / AFP)

It’s going to take a while to emotionally recover from all of that.


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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REVEALED: What Lionel Messi whispered to himself before decisive World Cup Final penalty (video) https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-whispered-to-his-late-grandma-before-decisive-world-cup-final-penalty-17-january-2023/ Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:12:45 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1436977 This is about as wholesome and heart-warming as it gets. Lionel Messi whispered something to his late grandmother just before Gonzalo Montiel’s decisive spot-kick against France in the World Cup final. Here’s what he said.

GOAT: The greatest goal of Messi’s career

MESSI STATS: The Foot of God


Messi spoke to his grandma as World Cup glory beckoned

As Gonzalo Montiel stepped up to take the decisive penalty of the final at World Cup 2022, Messi was spotted saying whispering something to himself. Enjoy that beautiful moment here.

Video: @roynemer / twitter

The PSG superstar’s grandmother played a key role in his iconic career, when she introduced him to football and pushed the manager of a local club in Argentina to to take a chance on him. It was before of her that he started playing the sport with older kids.

Messi’s grandmother, Celia, brought him to all his matches when he will never forget that. Messi’s iconic goal celebration where he points to the sky is in her honour. He’s done it his entire professional career.

The GOAT didn’t forget about her just before the crowning moment of his career as he reached out to her with the beautiful words: “Puede ser hoy, abu” which means “it could be today grandma”.

Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final

GOATED: Nine players to win the World Cup, Champions League and Ballon d’Or

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

You’ve got to have a heart of stone to not be touched by this story.


LOL: Colombian influencer got a Lionel Messi face tattoo and now regrets it

You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Meanwhile, follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.

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African streamers’ top 10 favourite teams of the World Cup https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/african-streamers-top-10-favourite-teams-world-cup-breaking-january-2023/ Fri, 13 Jan 2023 14:52:50 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1430542 The FIFA World Cup set new live-streaming records for South African-based streaming service Showmax Pro. 

Football fans across Africa glued to their devices as they streamed the highly anticipated quarterfinals, semi-finals and finals of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, courtesy of SuperSport and streamed in HD and 4K. 

In the initial stages of the event, subscribers were more likely to stream the match highlights that were available on demand, but as the tournament neared its conclusion, streaming live increased. 

ALSO READ: Three signings Manchester United should avoid

The nail-biting final between Argentina and France saw the highest number of concurrent streams of a live event in Showmax Pro’s history, a more than 20% increase in viewership. The number of new subscribers to Showmax Pro increased steadily across the month of December peaking on 18 December 2022, the day of the final.  

“We’re incredibly proud that Showmax successfully streamed the entire World Cup without a hitch and delivered 4K to our subscribers for the first time across the continent. We look forward to bringing even more of the world’s best sport to our customers in 2023, starting with the Premier League, Serie A and LaLiga, and the DStv Premiership,” says Barry Dubovsky, COO for Connected Video at MultiChoice. 

Most-streamed matches of the World Cup 

Based on the total number of users, these were the most-streamed matches of the tournament.  

1. Argentina vs France 

2. France vs Morocco 

3. Croatia vs Brazil 

African streamers’ top 10 favourite teams  

World Cup
Who Africa favoured at the FIFA World Cup. Image: Showmax/Multichoice

Based on the total number of match views during the group phase across all Showmax Pro markets in sub-Saharan Africa, these were the most popular teams: 

  1. France 
  2. Morocco 
  3. Argentina  
  4. Brazil 
  5. Portugal 
  6. Netherlands  
  7. England  
  8. United States 
  9. Ecuador 
  10. Ghana 

Penalties drove subscriber and viewership spikes 

An interesting trend was seeing the impact of penalties on the number of new subscribers signing up for Showmax Pro, as well as on viewership. In every match that went to penalties, there were significant spikes as fans signed up and started live streaming. 

Now that the tournament has ended, 2023 brings a wealth of international football to watch, including the Premier League action this weekend – on Saturday, Man U takes on Man City in the Manchester derby. 

On Sunday, Tottenham faces Arsenal in the North London derby. All Serie A and La Liga games are also currently streaming live on Showmax Pro, as well as the DStv Premiership matches, and the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship kicks off on 13 January. 

Take advantage of Showmax Pro’s currently reduced prices, available for R299 p/m and R199 p/m for mobile in South AfricaEnjoy streaming on your smart TV, AndroidTV, tvOS, Streama, Explora Ultra, or any other 4K playback device with instant action on the go. Go to showmax.com to sign up.

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Lionel Messi: The greatest goal of his career https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-the-greatest-goal-of-his-career-goat-watch-9-january-2023/ Mon, 09 Jan 2023 13:21:41 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1426542 In 2007, a teenage Lionel Messi left the watching world gobsmacked with a solo goal of the highest quality.

Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final

MESSI STATS: The Foot of God

GOATED: Nine players to win the World Cup, Champions League and Ballon d’Or


The greatest Lionel Messi goal?

Lionel Messi has played 1003 matches during his professional career. He’s hit the back of the net 793 times in those games, including 98 times for newly-crowned champions of the world, Argentina.

In 2022, Messi was imperious. He played 51 times across his PSG and Argentina duties, scoring 33 goals and providing 30 assists. Needless to say, it’s almost impossible to pick out the very best goal he’s ever scored. This one must be a contender though:

Wow. Imagine doing this as a teenager. Video: @blockbetssports/ Twitter

Which of Lionel Messi’s 793 career goals stands out as the best, in your humble opinion? Hit us up in the comments wherever you happen to read this.

LOL: Colombian influencer got a Lionel Messi face tattoo and now regrets it

AMAKHOSI: Report cards on FIVE Amakhosi attackers needing to find form


You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.

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FIFA World Cup: The LATE wrap you didn’t know you needed https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-the-late-wrap-you-didnt-know-you-needed-6-january-2023/ Fri, 06 Jan 2023 06:38:29 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1423442 The World Cup might be ancient history for some, but there’s still a lot of cool stuff to learn. Messi was spot-on, Ronaldo wasn’t, and England were the cleanest team at the tournament.

For instance, did you know that Canada were the only side to wear three shirts at the tournament? Do you even care? I care.

Chiefs: Zwane says “I still haven’t found what I’m looking for”

LEKKER: Gavin Hunt reveals scouting call to Benni McCarthy


FIFA World Cup 2022: DID YOU KNOW?

FIFA World Cup final strongly represented by Spanish clubs

Atlético Madrid had three players started the final (the most of any club). They were, namely, Nahuel Molina, Rodrigo De Paul and Antoine Griezmann. Milan, Barcelona, Benfica, Juventus, PSG and Tottenham had two each.

CAPE TOWN: Five easy breezy hiking routes to explore this summer

Antoine Griezmann at the World Cup
Antoine Griezmann at the World Cup. Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS / AFP)

Clean Three Lions

Harry Maguire was the only England player to receive a booking throughout the entire tournament – in the quarter-final against France – as Gareth Southgate’s team won the Fair Play Trophy. They would have probably preferred an actual trophy though. Lol. For the record, Argentina received the most (17).

ICYMI: Kaizer Chiefs and all 12 trialists at Naturena so far


Youngest FIFA World Cup manager

Lionel Scaloni, aged 44 years, was the youngest manager at Qatar 2022. Amazingly, he was in Argentina’s World Cup squad in 2006 alongside Lionel Messi.

Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi embrace
Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi embrace. Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP)

Speaking of Lionel Messi…spot-on

Messi scored four penalties at World Cup 2022 – against Saudi Arabia in the group, Netherlands in the quarter-finals, Croatia in the semi-finals and France in the final – and he also missed one against Poland in the groups. There were 19 penalties at the tournament and Argentina were awarded five of them (26%).

LOL: Colombian influencer got a Lionel Messi face tattoo and now regrets it

World Cup final Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

Oh and by the way, Cristiano Ronaldo has never scored a goal in the knockout stages of a World Cup. Have a good weekend.


You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.

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Colombian influencer got a Lionel Messi face tattoo and now regrets it https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/colombian-influencer-got-a-messi-face-tattoo-and-now-regrets-it-5-january-2023/ Thu, 05 Jan 2023 05:46:32 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1421953 Colombian influencer Mike Jambs got a Lionel Messi face tattoo on his forehead along with ‘D10S’ (‘god’ in Spanish) on one cheek and the three Argentinean stars on the other to celebrate Argentina’s historic triumph at World Cup 2022.

Mike regrets it now.

ICYMI: Latest Kaizer Chiefs news on Thursday 5 January

The Cristiano Ronaldo effect: Staggering spike in Al-Nassr social accounts


Colombian influencer with Messi face tattoo says he is living a nightmare

Mike Jambs says that he regrets the decision on a personal level, but it’s also caused an uproar in his family.

“I’m sorry I got the tattoo, having done that, instead of bringing me positive things, came thousands of negative things both personally and for my family,” Jambs told TyC Sports.

“They just say that I’m not a positive example for society.”

MLS: The best footballers ever to play in the United States MLS

Messi face tattoo
Mike James with his Messi face tattoo. Image: Metro UK

Mike wants Lionel Messi face tattoo removed

Mike wants to remove the trio of tattoos from his face but isn’t sure how.

“I didn’t think I’d be saying this so soon and I felt very proud of what I’d done in the first few days, but I now wish I hadn’t done it,” said Jambs.

“I want to erase my tattoo, because my life changed negatively but I don’t know how such a procedure works.”

Let’s hope that a tattoo removal expert gets in touch with Mike. Internet, do your thing!


CAPE TOWN: Five easy breezy hiking routes to explore this summer

You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.

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This legendary Brazilian played professional top-tier club football on five continents: Who is he? https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/this-legendary-brazilian-played-pro-club-football-on-six-continents-who-is-he-3-january-2023/ Tue, 03 Jan 2023 12:29:55 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1419958 Brazilian football has a rich history of producing some of the most iconic and recognizable names in the history of the sport.

Just off the back of my head, I can recall Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Robinho, Kaká and Ganso having all wearing the famous Brazilian number 10 jersey. So too did the late, great Pelé and the current owner, Neymar. Then there are the truly legendary strikers R9 and Romário.

YUM: Five LOAD SHEDDING lunch ideas

Brazilian greats Romario and Ronaldo.
Brazilian icons Romário and Ronaldo. Image: Planet Football

Romário is a bona fide great Brazilian

One particular Brazilian legend has done something that no other footballer in history has done. Romário played professional top-tier club football for teams on five different continents, and he did so with some distinction too. Here are the teams he represented throughout his colourful and often glorious career:

  • 🇧🇷 Vasco da Gama
  • 🇳🇱 PSV Eindhoven
  • 🇪🇸 FC Barcelona
  • 🇧🇷 Flamengo
  • 🇪🇸 Valencia
  • 🇧🇷 Vasco da Gama
  • 🇧🇷 Flamengo
  • 🇧🇷 Fluminense
  • 🇶🇦 Al-Sadd
  • 🇧🇷 Fluminense
  • 🇧🇷 Vasco da Gama
  • 🇺🇸 Miami FC
  • 🇧🇷 Vasco da Gama
  • 🇦🇺 Adelaide United
  • 🇧🇷 América RJ
Romário was amazing! Video: @90sfootball / twitter

What a baller! If only he had somehow played for sides in Africa and Antarctica. Lol. Still, a club career spanning South America, Europe, Asia, North America and Australia is something to remember forever.

ICYMI: Njabulo Blom is the latest in a string of South Africans to sign for an MLS club

OPINION: Benni McCarthy should be the Bafana Bafana manager

CAPE TOWN HEALTHY LIVING: Five easy breezy hiking routes to explore this summer


Meanwhile,you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Follow The South African on Twitter for up-to-the-minute news updates.

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Kaizer Chiefs owner picks two of his Qatar 2022 star players https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/psl-south-africa/kaizer-chiefs-owner-messi-mbappe-breaking-24-december-2022/ Sat, 24 Dec 2022 19:52:03 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1412843 Legendary Kaizer Chiefs owner Kaizer Motaung senior has handpicked two of his favourite players at the FIFA World Cup.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup came to a close a week ago, with Argentina triumphing against France in the final.

ALSO READ • FIVE Kaizer Chiefs players that could follow Blom out the exit door

According to Dr. Motaung, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe were in a class of their own at Qatar 2022.

Take a look at what the legendary soccer boss had to say below.

Mbappe and Messi impressed Kaizer Chiefs boss

ALSO READ • Orlando Pirates: Jose Riveiro’s favourite Buccaneer revealed

“It was a World Cup to remember. Messi played his part. Mbappe played his part and the world was treated to a grand finale, which ended up needing to be decided on penalties.” Kaizer Motaung told the Kaizer Chiefs website.

“Kylian Mbappe was also phenomenal. To achieve what he has at his age is astonishing. To score a hat-trick in the final and still not win the game was a very heavy blow for him.

“However, you can see the future in this boy. He is going to be holding the French flag high in future World Cups.

“For me, he was outstanding. Just like Messi, coming from nowhere in the right place at the right time to dominate world football.”

Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, PSG teammates.

After months of speculation, Kaizer Chiefs confirmed Blom will be joining Major League Soccer team St. Louis City SC in America on Friday evening.

Blom however could be the first of a string of exits at Naturena over the next six months.

He was one of six players whose contract ends in June 2023, and the following five remaining players may soon follow suit.

Five Amakhosi players under scrutiny after Blom exit

ALSO READ • Ex-Pirates and Chiefs striker signs for surprise PSL side!

Veteran goalkeeper Ituemeleng Khune’s contract comes to an end at the end of the season.

While Khune has enjoyed good game-time (when he’s not injured) under Arthur Zwane, his age is indeed catching up with him.

ALSO READ • Kaizer Chiefs handed major boost!

This may prompt the club to avoid extending the legend’s playing contract at Chiefs.

Another legend who’ll likely not get a contract extension is Eric Mathoho. Tower has featured for just ONE minute this season. Yes, just one minute according to TransferMarkt!

Furthermore Phathutshedzo Nange, Khama Billiat and Sifiso Hlanti will all be facing a nervy wait as their contracts end at the end of the current season.

ALSO READ • Chiefs new signing linked with early loan exit!

Chiefs lose star midfielder

ALSO READ • Axed Kaizer Chiefs maestro makes SHOCK PSL return!

“Kaizer Chiefs are elated to confirm the transfer of their youth development graduate, Njabulo Blom to US Major League Soccer team, St. Louis City SC.” a club statement read.

“Incredibly, this ground-breaking transfer is the first transaction involving a youth development graduate of the Club to the MLS, notwithstanding the many other exports the Club has produced in the past.”

ALSO READ • Chiefs star defender attracting interest from PSL rivals!

kaizer chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Njabulo Blom’s future hangs in the balance. Image: @idiskitimes / Twitter.

ALSO READ • Orlando Pirates target extends contract at PSL rivals!

ALSO READ • Why Zwane’s job is tougher than mine – ex Kaizer Chiefs coach

ALSO READ • Orlando Pirates star takes PAY-CUT!

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Throwback Thursday: The greatest Kaizer Chiefs players of the modern era https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/throwback-thursday-the-greatest-kaizer-chiefs-players-of-the-modern-era-22-december-2022/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:23:28 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1410820 Listing all of the best Kaizer Chiefs players in history would be impossible but we’re going to try and include a few of our recent favourites.

Feel free to disagree in the comments section below and drag us for leaving your favourites out!

DECISIONS: Three big options for Kaizer Chiefs star Njabulo Blom


Throwback Thursday: The greatest Kaizer Chiefs players of the modern era

BERNARD PARKER

You cannot argue with Bernard Parker’s goal stats as a Kaizer Chiefs player. After all, it is goals that win games, and Parker did plenty of that for the Glamour Boys. Now with TS Galaxy, the 36-year-old won four major honours with Amakhosi, including two DStv Premiership titles. He falls into the “underrated” bracket for sure.

Latest Kaizer Chiefs news: 22 December 2022

TACTICS: One thing Blom must add to his game

Bernard Parker
Bernard Parker celebrating goal – Photo Twitter @KaizerChiefs

COLLINS MBESUMA

Speaking of goals, who will ever forget the goal-scoring exploits of Zambian marksman Collins Mbesuma? His antics in the penalty area earned him a move to Portsmouth in 2005. All-in-all, Mbesuma bagged 55 goals in 173 DStv Premiership clashes. 25 goals in the 2004-05 season remains an all-time record that is unlikely to be touched. And it belongs to Mbesuma.

NEXTGEN: Crunch time for six Kaizer Chiefs wonderkids


JABU PULE

An entertainer in the true sense of the word, Jabu Pule took our collective breath away with quintessentially South African flair. No list of modern Chiefs greats is complete without mentioning this man. What a player!


ITUMELENG KHUNE

Known for his legendary distribution of the football, Itu Khune is a modern-day great in a goalkeeping context. Seven major honours with Chiefs and 91 caps for Bafana Bafana undoubtedly qualify Knune as a South African great. Although distribution is the trait that has made him famous around the world, don’t forget his amazing reflexes and loyalty. A true one-club man.

Kaizer Chiefs Khune
Kaizer Chiefs stalwart Itumeleng Khune is a bona fide club legend. Image: BackpagePix

DOCTOR KHUMALO

“16 Valve” was an African champion with Bafana Bafana in 1996 and he regularly dazzled audiences in a Kaizer Chiefs jersey who’s fondly remembered for his wonderful vision and passing ability. To this day, his tally of 397 starts for Amakhosi is an all-time record. How much more legendary does it get than that?


SHOES MOSHOEU

John “Shoes” Mosheou was the ultimate playmaker, combining silky skills and his ability to dictate play from the heart of midfield. Shoes was an AFCON winner in 1996 and then represented South Africa at France 1998. Are there any modern equivalents of his skill set? What a gifted footballer. Pure silk and skill.

Two stints with Chiefs, alongside a spell with Turkish giants Fenerbache, make Shoes a legit cult figure of football.

WOW: Orlando Pirates players who would start for Chiefs?


SIPHIWE TSHABALALA

An assist machine from the left side of midfield, Shabba was equally capable of tucking into more central areas and holding onto the ball to slow the play down. A seriously underrated footballer in large parts of South Africa, but Chiefs fans knew all about his gifts. When Shabba scored THAT goal against Mexico in 2010, the world knew his name.

kaizer chiefs legend siphiwe tshabalala
Siphiwe Tshabalala with an iconic World Cup moment that none of us will forget. PHOTO / CHRISTOPHE SIMON (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON / AFP)

A SNEAK PEAK INTO THE HISTORY OF KAIZER CHIEFS

Ace Ntsoelengoe is a man who scored 19 Soweto Derby goals and was admired for his sublime technical ability and footwork, playing football with a smile on his face and with the swag of a Brazilian. Ever the entertainer, Ace was voted as the club’s greatest ever player in 2010. Next time we’ll discuss him and a few of the other greats from yesteryear.


** DISCLAIMER: The writer of this article may not be old enough to remember some of the players that shone in the 90s.

You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Three big options for Kaizer Chiefs star Njabulo Blom https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/three-big-options-for-kaizer-chiefs-star-njabulo-blom-22-december-2022/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 11:19:44 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1410741 It’s almost decision time for Kaizer Chiefs star Njabulo Blom.

With no significant movement on a new Amakhosi contract, all avenues remain open. These are three likeliest. The longer he waits, the most agitated Chiefs fans will become.

Latest Kaizer Chiefs news: 22 December 2022


THREE CHOICES FOR KAIZER CHIEFS STAR NJABULO BLOM

OPTION 1: REMAIN AT CHIEFS AND BECOME A CLUB LEGEND

Spurning offers from the likes of Sundowns, Pirates and potential European suitors would immediately make Amakhosi fans adore him even more than they already do. If Blom sees Naturena as the best place for his development, he could be the cornerstone of a new and successful era with the club. If not, then he’ll have to turn his back on them.

TACTICS: One thing Blom must add to his game

Kaizer Chiefs in the PSL
Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates co-existing in harmony? Image: BackpagePix

OPTION 2: QUADRUPLE HIS SALARY AT SUNDOWNS AND WIN PILES OF SILVERWARE

This is obviously an appealing option, and nobody could blame him if this is the route that he went. It all depends on his ambition, and whether the Brazilians even make an offer in the first place. Considering he’s one of the hottest prospects in the country, they just might.

NEXTGEN: Crunch time for six Kaizer Chiefs wonderkids

kaizer chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Njabulo Blom holds a lot of powerful cards. Image: @idiskitimes / Twitter.

OPTION 3: GET HIS AGENT TO FIND HIM A EUROPEAN CLUB

This option would significantly increase his earning potential, potentially, but there are downsides. Blom would have to adjust to a new culture and, depending where he goes, a totally different climate. Homesickness is a real thing. Then there’s also his prospects in a Bafana Bafana jersey. Will those be affected if he moves abroad?

GOAT: Lionel Messi is the 14th man in history to achieve this incredible feat

Which option will Njabulo Blom and his representatives opt for? The clock is ticking, and they’ll want to choose wisely.


You can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Lionel Messi is the 14th man in history to achieve this incredible feat https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-is-the-14th-man-in-history-to-achieve-this-incredible-feat/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 09:12:27 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1410559 The records keep tumbling with Lionel Messi around, but this one is totally unique.

RUMOURS: Lionel Messi set to stay at PSG, Mbappé could leave for the Premier League

INSTAGRAM: Help Messi reach 100 million likes and break the internet!


Lionel Messi bounces back to claim the ultimate prize

28 players have lost a World Cup final and had the chance to play in it again. Only 14 have rectified that defeat and gone on to win it.Those players are Luis Monti, Franz Beckenbauer, Wolfgang Overath, Pierre Littbarski, Cafu, Roberto Carlos, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Denilson, Miroslav Klose, Lothar Matthaüs, Thomas Berthold, Andreas Brehme and Lionel Messi.

The great man just wouldn’t be denied.

A staggering tournament from the great man. Video: @roynemer / Twitter

Lionel’s longevity

Amazingly, there were 25 matches and over 16 years between Messi’s first World Cup appearance (June 2006) and his World Cup triumph (December 2022), the longest such gap in history. Talk about longevity. Incidentally, he’s the only player in World Cup history to score a goal in his teens, his 20s and his 30s.

Commentary GOAT: Peter Drury spitting poetic facts

With seven goals in seven games at Qatar 2022 he became the first player to score in each round of a World Cup since the last-16 round was introduced in 1986. In the final, Messi became the player with most minutes played in World Cup history (2,314), surpassing Paolo Maldini. He also surpassed Pelé as player with most goal contributions in World Cup history (21; 13 goals, 8 assists). Pele had 20 (12/8).

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

The GOAT?

Diego Maradona never won Copa América, Pelé never played in Europe, Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, aka R9, never won the Champions League, and Cristiano Ronaldo never won the World Cup. Messi doesn’t have any of those problems. A once-in-a-lifetime combination of goal-scoring and goal-creating, the likes of which we will never see again.


FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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FIFA deletes Messi GOAT tweet after getting abuse from Ronaldo fanboys https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-deletes-messi-tweet-after-abuse-from-cristiano-ronaldo-fanboys-22-december-2022/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 05:21:36 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1409857 FIFA have deleted a contentious tweet about Lionel Messi which severely irked Cristiano Ronaldo fans around the globe.

Latest Kaizer Chiefs news: 22 December 2022

RUMOURS: Lionel Messi set to stay at PSG, Mbappé could leave for the Premier League


La Albiceleste and Messi on top of the world

Argentina ended their 36-year World Cup drought to eventually get the better of France on penalties in a pulsating final. PSG superstar Kylian Mbappéb bagged a hat-trick for France but it wasn’t enough for the defending champions, who lost out to his clubmate Lionel Messi, who scored a brace of his own.

CR7 and Lionel Messi news wrap: 21 December 2022

World Cup final Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

What did FIFA tweet about Messi?

Governing body FIFA seemed to be full of adoration for Messim tweeting: “The GOAT debate is settled. The ultimate prize is now part of the collection. The legacy is complete.”

Cristiano Ronaldo fans weren’t delighted.

After a serious backlash, they deleted the tweet.

“FIFA deleted this tweet after getting called out for being biased and receiving backlash,” @TimelineCR7, one of the biggest Ronaldo fan accounts on Twitter, wrote. “A professional account of the biggest football organisation in the world.

“It has always been Ronaldo vs the rigged system.”

Cristiano Ronaldo: Shock new club “joins the race” with €200m package already on the table

Messi certainly has nothing to prove to anybody, especially Ronaldo fans, even before winning the World Cup in Qatar. Perhaps FIFA should have been more impartial and diplomatic, and it’s understandable that they deleted the tweet. At the same time, however, CR7’s legions of supporters fans need to chill out. Perhaps they should focus on where their hero will be heading next on his own journey?


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Kylian Mbappe cannot leave Paris says France icon https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/kylian-mbappe-cannot-leave-paris-breaking-21-december-2022/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 21:46:16 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1410205 Kylian Mbappe has been linked with a move to Real Madrid but Frank Leboeuf is adamant that the star striker is destined to stay in Paris.

Leboeuf believes there is no reason the Qatari-owned club would offload Mbappe at this time.

Kylian Mbappe cannot leave Paris

Leboeuf believes that the next steps for both Mbappe and Lionel Messi will be winning the Champions League with PSG.

“Mbappe was born close to Paris, he plays his football in Paris, he earns millions of Euros per year and is the hero of his nation,” Leboeuf told Safe Betting Sites.  

“Why would he want to leave? Yes admittedly Ligue 1 is not the best but neither is La Liga in terms of quality throughout the league below the top five. 

“He wants to make history with PSG right now. He’s writing his history and hopefully that is going to include Champions League trophies alongside Messi. 

“I don’t see him leaving. It’s too early for Qatar to let him go and don’t forget he just signed a new contract so the fans would be outraged if he left straight after.”

FIFA World Cup Final Kylian Mbappe
France’s forward #10 Kylian Mbappe strikes the ball to score his team’s second goal during the Qatar 2022 World Cup football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

Mbappe scored a hat-trick and Messi a brace in the incredible World Cup final.

ALSO READ: World Cup winner says that Messi can never be the GOAT

World Cup star on the move

Leboeuf urged Chelsea to sign Joško Gvardiol, who shone for Croatia at the World Cup and could potentially form a dream partnership at centre back with Dutch defensive star Wesley Fofana.

Croatia
Josko Gvardiol during the Qatar 2022 World Cup third place play-off football match between Croatia and Morocco at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on December 17, 2022. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)

“Gvardiol is a great player. He was turned inside out by Messi in the semi-final for that great goal but that was partly Dejan Lovren’s fault for not helping him and also the mask he was wearing probably didn’t help either [laughs]. 

“I know I’m making excuses for him but he’s a great defender, he had a great World Cup and if Chelsea can get him, I say to the club, ‘Yes thank you,'” Leboeuf said.

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World Cup winner says that Messi can never be the GOAT https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/world-cup-winner-messi-can-never-goat-breaking-21-december-2022/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 18:16:47 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1410099 World Cup winner Frank Leboeuf believes Pele is in a league of his own despite Lionel Messi’s World Cup heroics.

Leboeuf opines that Pele’s involvement in three World Cup wins sets him a rung above the likes of Messi.

Messi can never be the GOAT

Leboeuf let his voice be heard in a recent interview with Safe Betting Sites.

“Messi is undoubtedly a great player and he definitely deserved to win the World Cup. Considering his incredible career it’s something he’s certainly earned. He was also one of the few Argentina players who showed humility and respect towards their opponents after the match.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup Final Gallery

“But in terms of who is the GOAT, I think if there can only be one it has to be Pele. He won the World Cup three times, the first time at the age of 17 years old. This was at the time where you had no medical or physical training sessions. The guy was simply a monster. He only played in Brazil so he couldn’t get the Ballon d’Or because it was only given to European players at that time. 

“So I don’t even know how we can compare anybody else with Pele. Yes, Messi is a great player, as were Maradona and Platini and Johan Cryuff. But the greatest of the greatest in that position is Pele because he won it three times.”

Frenchman slams Martinez antics

Messi
Argentina’s goalkeeper #23 Emiliano Martinez poses with the FIFA Golden Glove award during the trophy ceremony at the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

Emi Martinez saved two penalties to help win Argentina their third World Cup but Leboeuf believes the Aston Villa goalkeeper needs to grow up. 

Martinez was filmed singing about Mbappe and making a lewd gesture with his Golden Gloves trophy after the match.

Leboeuf said: “I was saying good things about Emiliano Martinez before the final and I think he’s a great goalkeeper. But his behaviour? Oh, my God, grow up man! What are you doing in front of the world? Playing with your trophy. Are you stupid, or what? And what the players did afterwards in the dressing room [singing about Mbappe]? Come on, the guy scored four goals against you. What are you teasing him for?

World Cup Messi
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi lifts the World Cup trophy during the Qatar 2022 World Cup trophy ceremony after the football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. – Argentina won in the penalty shoot-out. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

“Martinez played with Tchouaméni when he threw the ball away and made him go to pick it up [in the shootout]. I would have gone to the spot and said I will wait for somebody to give me the ball. But overall Martinez is an exceptional goalkeeper. It’s crazy to see that he was a substitute for Arsenal for so many years. We can all see his talent now. I don’t like his behaviour but what a goalkeeper.”

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Help Lionel Messi reach 100 million likes on Instagram and break the internet for good! https://www.thesouthafrican.com/technology/help-lionel-messi-reach-100-million-likes-on-instagram-share-21-december-2022/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 06:23:50 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1409006 Lionel Messi is in the process of breaking the internet, but we need your help to get the job done. Be part of something great!

The previous record holder? An egg which has racked up 56.1 million likes.

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God


The iconic Lionel Messi post that’s breaking Instagram

The great man posted this celebratory shot on Instagram and it’s become the most liked image in the platform’s history. Now, it’s creeping towards the 69 million mark (nice) and 100 million seems entirely achievable at this point, BUT only if the people of the internet participate in this essentially pointless but super fun exercise.

WEIRD word of the day: ZENZIZENZIZENZIC

Share the post with everyone you know and hit the like button too, obvs.

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi with the object of his affections. Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP)

ICYMI: Cristiano Ronaldo offered Premier League lifeline?

World Cup news recap

It feels weird that the World Cup is over, but there’s still plenty of cool stuff to enjoy around what was a stunning tournament. ICYMI, here’s the best World Cup content on The South African right now.

WOW: Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae! (watch)

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
Morocco fans in Rabat, celebrating a momentous occasion for Morocco, Africa and the Arab world. Photo by FADEL SENNA / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Latest Kaizer Chiefs news with your coffee: Wednesday 21 December 2022 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/latest-kaizer-chiefs-news-with-your-coffee-wednesday-21-december-2022/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 04:18:14 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1408903 Good morning Kaizer Chiefs fans!

Here’s your morning roundup of the biggest stories, features, transfer rumours and more.

CR7: Cristiano Ronaldo offered Premier League lifeline?

WEIRD word of the day: ZENZIZENZIZENZIC


Kaizer Chiefs news roundup: Wednesday 21 December

Kaizer Chiefs handed big Pule Mmodi boost

Arthur Zwane might be closer to getting his man.

FULL STORY


Chiefs to unleash two exciting youngsters against Golden Arrows

Arthur Zwane has a few aces up his sleeve for Amakhosi’s New Year’s Eve clash.

FULL STORY


How Kaizer Chiefs could line up against Arrows

It’s still 11 days away, but we’re starting to speculate as to how Arthur Zwane will line up his Kaizer Chiefs side against Golden Arrows.

FULL STORY

Kaizer Chiefs
Chiefs stars in training. Much is expected from Mshini post-Wold Cup. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter

Two Amakhosi stars who will be suspended after next yellow card

Chiefs have two defenders walking the disciplinary tightrope ahead of the DStv Premiership’s much-anticipated return.

FULL STORY


Ex-Chiefs star drops fascinating World Cup final insight

A former Chiefs and Orlando Pirates ‘keeper spotted something that many of us surely missed in the World Cup final. Great insights.

FULL STORY


Chiefs: Zwane to finally use his special weapon

Kaizer Chiefs fans have been waiting for a bit too long. Find out why the wait for Mduduzi Shabalala is finally over.

FULL STORY

kaizer chiefs
Mduduzi Shabalala is one of the finest prospects to come out of Naturena in some time. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter.

ICYMI: Otladisa’s agent rubbishes Kaizer Chiefs rumours, for now

Is Marumo Gallants star Katlego Otladisa’s future going to become a saga? It would appear so judging by what his agent has just said.

FULL STORY


WOW: Lionel Messi Instagram post officially the most liked image in the platform’s history


Latest Lionel Messi news: Tuesday 20 December 2022

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Top 10 Africa countries in FIFA rankings after World Cup in Qatar https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/top-10-africa-countries-fifa-rankings-after-world-cup-qatar-breaking/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 18:35:01 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1408718 The latest FIFA rankings have seen dramatic changes following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

WEIRD word of the day: ZENZIZENZIZENZIC

Brazil remain No 1 in the standings, followed by winners of the tournament Argentina and beaten finalists France in third place.

Meanwhile, Morocco, who did the African continent proud by finishing fourth, moved up 11 places to 11th – and are now the top-ranked African side.

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

TOP 10 AFRICAN COUNTRIES IN THE FIFA RANKINGS:

1. Morocco (11 in the world)

2. Senegal (19)

3. Tunisia (29)

4. Cameroon (33)

5. Nigeria (35)

6. Algeria (38)

7. Egypt (40)

8. Mali (45)

9. Ivory Coast (47)

10. Burkina Faso (50)

WOW: Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae! (watch)

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Two Kaizer Chiefs players who will be suspended after their next yellow card https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/two-kaizer-chiefs-players-who-will-be-suspended-after-their-next-yellow-card-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 15:03:35 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1408416 Kaizer Chiefs have two defenders who are one yellow card away from a suspension.

Amakhosi will face Golden Arrows away from home on December 31st as the DStv Premiership makes a much-anticipated return.

HMMm: Cristiano Ronaldo offered Premier League lifeline?

ICYMI: Kaizer Chiefs slash ticket prices for Sekhukhune clash


Kaizer Chiefs duo Hlanti and Kwinika walking the tightrope

Key defensive duo Sifiso Hlanti and Zitha Kwinika, should they pick up a booking against Arrows, would then miss the home clash against Sekhukhune on January 7th. FYI, ticket costs have been slashed for that clash.

ICYMI: Charismatic referee Victor Gomes announces his retirement

Gomes hangs up his whistle

The two sets of players might be a touch relieved that Victor Gomes won’t be presiding over their match. Jokes aside, the legendary 40-year-old today announced his retirement from refereeing. Although the players respect him, some of them will be glad to see his back! Gomes represented South Africa in Qatar and officiated two matches as the man in the middle; France’s 4-1 win against Australia and Spain’s stunning 2-1 defeat to Japan. He was also the fourth official in that thrilling quarter-final between Argentina and Netherlands.

Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs stars in training. Much is expected from Mshini post-Wold Cup. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter

The countdown to the return of the DStv Prem continues!


Latest Lionel Messi news: Tuesday 20 December 2022

WEIRD word of the day: ZENZIZENZIZENZIC

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Latest Lionel Messi news: Tuesday 20 December 2022 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/latest-lionel-messi-breaking-news-tuesday-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 12:14:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1407496 Lionel Messi, champion of the World, GOAT, Idolo, whatever you want to call him. Here’s all of the latest news regarding the great man.

World Cup 2022: FIVE Argentines make my Team of the Tournament


Latest Lionel Messi news: 20 December 2022

Messi Instagram post officially the most liked image in the platform’s history

LM10 is currently breaking Instagram.

FULL STORY


Messi: The Foot of God

Ironically it was a scruffy right-footed strike by Lionel Messi that stirred up so much emotion last night. Even his ‘weak’ foot is great.

FULL STORY

Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final

If Messi is the GOAT in football terms, Peter Drury is surely the commentary equivalent. Some of his quotes bring tears to our eyes.

FULL STORY


FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar will be forever remembered as the time when Africa made the final four. It will also be fondly cherished for its stunning upsets, and the time that Mr. Messi ended a 36-year World Cup drought for his beloved Argentina.

FULL STORY

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
The moment. Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

Messi’s mind-boggling career in numbers

Lionel Messi, by winning the World Cup, has completed his own personal set of accolades. Take a closer look.

FULL STORY


LOL: The Piers Morgan prediction that went horribly wrong

Piers Morgan has made a habit out of making terrible predictions, and here’s his call in the World Cup final that blew up in his face.

FULL STORY


Lionel Scaloni’s DESPERATE plea to Messi in 2016

This little throwback involving Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and his namesake, some guy called Messi, is incredibly touching.

FULL STORY

Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi embrace
Lionel Scaloni and Messi embrace. Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP)

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Lionel Messi Instagram post officially the most liked image in the platform’s history https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-instagram-post-officially-the-most-liked-image-in-the-platforms-history/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:55:42 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1408047 A Lionel Messi Instagram post has made history by racking up more likes than any other image in history.

The previous record holder? An egg which has racked up 56.1 million likes.

WEIRD word of the day: ZENZIZENZIZENZIC

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God


Lionel Messi breaks Instagram

Messi captured the iconic moment in a series of images and that post has 57.3 million likes, and counting. Fast.

Sticking to the theme, viral celebrity chef Salt Bae also got in on the action, leveraging off Messi’s fame for his own Insta vibe.

Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe, donned his usual attire of suit and sunglasses, and was just one of many people bombarding Messi with picture requests. He finally got his wish. Nusret also managed to snap a shot with a bunch of other Argentinian stars, including goal-scorer on the night Angel Di Maria.

Lionel Messi Salt Bae
Lionel Messi reluctantly posing with Salt Bae. Image: Complex

World Cup news recap

ICYMI, here’s the best World Cup content on The South African right now.

WOW: Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae! (watch)

MESSI STATS: The Foot of God

VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

KEEPER: Former Chiefs and Pirates star drops fascinating World Cup final insight

World Cup 2022 unsung hero Alexis Mac Allister
Mac Allister got his moment. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.


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Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates star drops fascinating World Cup final insight https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/former-kaizer-chiefs-and-orlando-pirates-star-drops-fascinating-world-cup-final-insight-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 08:57:14 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1407854 A former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates star has shared some of his wisdom that’s really got us thinking.

Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final


Former Kaizer Chiefs man Brilliant Khuzwayo shares ‘keeping insights

Khuzwayo, who represented Soweto’s biggest clubs, Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, has shared a golden insight on that stunning save by Emi Martinez to deny Randal Kolo Muani with his legs in the dying embers of extra time.

WATCH: Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae!

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

Fascinating insights from @brilliekhuzwayo / Twitter.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments


It’s clear that modern German goalkeepers, and those donning the gloves for Kaizer Chiefs, have been specifically instructed to learn this technique when saving shots from strikers. it requires a lot of agility and bravery as it’s a risky tactic. However, it paid off big time for Emiliano Martinez on Sunday. Itumeleng Khune is also a good exponent of it.

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

World Cup final Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/real-goat-peter-drury-spitting-beautiful-gold-facts-in-the-world-cup-final-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 08:30:44 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1407802 The World Cup was lucky enough to have commentating GOAT Peter Drury call many of its matches and the way he summed up Lionel Messi was pure poetry.

We all know Mr. Drury from his years and years in the Premier League and England’s top-flight misses his epic golden touch. It was present at the World Cup final.

WATCH: Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae!

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God


Best Peter Drury quotes from the World Cup final

An absolutely sensational preview to the final. I dare you not to feel something deep in your soul.

Drury building up to world football’s greatest game, and perhaps the World Cup’s greatest ever final. Video: @bkelly776 / Twitter

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments


Peter Drury on Lionel Messi & Morocco

Just listen to this from Drury on Lionel Messi, in the immediate aftermath of Argentina’s epic triumph in arguably the greatest World Cup final of all time:

He was beautiful. He was the point of difference, he has always been the point of difference. Unparalleled. And maybe today there will of course always be those who argue, always be those who debate. And the debate can rage on if you like, but as he falls in love with the object in the world that his heart most desired, it’s hard to escape the supposition that he has rendered himself today, the greatest of all time.” – Peter Drury on Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi World Cup
Lionel Messi has ascended to World Cup heaven. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

Drink it in Casablanca, relish it Rabat, this is your night. See it from atop the Atlas Mountains, all above the Marrakech express, a night Morocco will never forget.” – Peter Drury on Morocco

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

Peter Drury’s beautiful summary of Lionel Messi’s greatness after the World Cup final. Video: @StoolFootball / Twitter

Wow. Goosebumps. Or, as it’s also called, piloerection.

Is Drury the GOAT? Surely that’s not even a debate.


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Lionel Messi SAVAGELY blanks Salt Bae! (watch) https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/icymi-lionel-messi-savagely-blanks-salt-bae-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 07:17:32 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1407516 Salt Bae seems to be everywhere these days, including near Lionel Messi in the wake of his epic World Cup triumph.

HMMM: Why Benni McCarthy should get the Bafana Bafana job

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God


Salt Bae wants a piece of Lionel Messi

Messi wasn’t in the mood to hang around and chitchat with Salt Bae. However, the celebrity chef finally got his way, posing for a photo with the great man. He obviously shared that on his Instagram, where he has 49.8 million followers. Messi doesn’t look too stoked. Let’s see how the interaction unfolded:

Messi being pestered by Salt Bae, who wanted a piece of the great man. Video: @BarStoolReags / Twitter

VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments


Messi confirms GOAT status

Seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi scored twice in a breathless 3-3 draw with France which eventually went to penalties. The jubilant scenes after the match were tempered somewhat (excuse the culinary pun) by Salt Bae’s insistence on being involved. The viral celebrity chef, whose real name is Nusret Gökçe managed to get on the pitch and in amongst the newly-crowned World Champions.

World Cup: FIVE Argentines make my Team of the Tournament

Salt Bae, donning his usual attire of suit and sunglasses, was just one of many people bombarding Messi with picture requests. He finally got his wish. Nusret also managed to snap a shot with a bunch of other Argentinian stars, including goal-scorer on the night Angel Di Maria.

Lionel Messi Salt Bae
Lionel Messi reluctantly posing with Salt Bae. Image: Complex

Salt Bae is (in)famous for his ludicrously expensive gold steaks, and he managed to get his hands on the 18-carat gold World Cup trophy, said to be worth £17.7 million.

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady


Tweeps have their say on Salt Bae

One wrote: “Gotta respect Salt Bae. Never has a man rinsed more out of putting some salt on a steak.”

A second said: “Salt Bae pestering Messi has to be the perfect symbol for all the awful off-field s**t hovering around and poisoning anything good about this World Cup. Dismal little character.”

Journalist Martyn Ziegler commented: “I’d love to hear FIFA’s explanation of why this celebrity chef gets access onto the pitch at a World Cup final for selfies with Messi etc.”

Salt Bae
Salt Bae is a viral celebrity chef and he’s a big Messi fan too. Image: Food & Wine

What do you think of Salt Bae? The man is undoubtedly a star in his own right.

World Cup final: The Piers Morgan prediction that went horribly wrong

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Kaizer Chiefs slash ticket prices for Sekhukhune clash https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/kaizer-chiefs-slash-ticket-prices-for-sekhukhune-clash-20-december-2022/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 06:41:16 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1407615 Kaizer Chiefs are in the birthday spirit.

In an attempt to get more fans in seats, Chiefs have announced ticket price reductions for the club’s clash with Sekhukhune on January 7th. It’s the club’s 53rd anniversary since its formation and they’re in the mood to celebrate.

HMMM: Why Benni McCarthy should get the Bafana Bafana job

LATEST: Kaizer Chiefs news with your coffee on Tuesday 20 December


Kaizer Chiefs slash prices for Sekhukhune clash

Marketing and Commercial Director Jessica Motaung announced this info on Monday when supporters were told that open stand seats would cost just R30 as opposed to the going rate of R60. She also announced that there would be similar discounts on hospitality packages.

“The anniversary of the founding of our institution is a great and special occasion for us. We always want to celebrate it with our supporters and everybody associated with us,” Motaung said.

“We came to the decision of cutting tickets prices after taking into account Christmas and festive holiday spending. We also considered that the event is a few days before schools reopen, so we know budgets are tight and we want everyone who is associated with Chiefs to be a part of this important event.

“This is what motivated us to offer this special deal, that not only applies to ordinary tickets, but includes hospitality packages.”

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs boss Arthur Zwane looking cool in the heat. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter

The clash with Sekhukhune on January 7th will be Amakhosi’s first home match of 2023. Before that, Arthur Zwane’s men face Golden Arrows away from home on December 31st. A win could propel the Glamour Boys as high as 2nd on the log.

Kaizer Chiefs: One area of Blom’s game that needs serious work


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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BISHT PLEASE! Messi looked dignified in traditional Arab cloak https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/bisht-please-messi-looked-dignified-traditional-arab-cloak-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:33:01 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406857 The Emir of Qatar placed a bisht on Lionel Messi when the planet was watching Argentina’s World Cup victory ceremony, and he accepted the honour graciously.

Team of the tournament: FIVE Argentines make the cut


King bestows Messi with honourable cloak

Moments before Messi was given the honour of lifting the World Cup trophy for the country he captains, the Emir or King of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, draped a royal robe over his shoulders.

World Cup: Lionel Scaloni’s DESPERATE plea to Messi in 2016

According to AlJazeera, it’s made out of light, often sheer, material with trimming made out of real gold that is worn over a white thobe. It’s worn at special occasions and religious celebrations.

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady


What is the significance of a bisht?

Primarily worn in the Gulf, it is a garment that has been worn for centuries during special occasions. It is viewed as a sign of appreciation and respect and is typically worn by top officials such as politicians, sheikhs and other high-status individuals.

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

Messi bisht
The King of Qatar gifts Argentina captain Lionel Messi with a royal robe during the FIFA World Cup trophy presentation. Images via Twitter @messi

World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments


Mustafa Baig, a lecturer in Islamic studies at the University of Exeter, told the dpa news agency that the bisht is a formal robe worn by royalty, dignitaries, grooms on their wedding day, and graduates at graduation ceremonies.

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers

“So only a select few people would actually wear the bisht. They basically honoured him [Messi] by putting it over his shoulders. It’s like a mark of honour, and just kind of a cultural welcoming and a cultural acceptance. He said.

Messi and Gold just go together.

Lionel Messi World Cup
Lionel Messi has ascended to World Cup heaven. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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FIVE Argentines make my World Cup 2022 Team of the Tournament https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/world-cup-2022-james-the-jellyfish-team-of-the-tournament-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 11:37:01 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405761 World Cup 2022 in Qatar is over but memories of it will live on forever.

Lionel Messi ascended to his own version of football heaven by getting his hands on the ultimate prize. Obviously, he makes our team of the tournament as captain. Who else gets the nod though?

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

Lionel Messi World Cup
Lionel Messi has ascended to World Cup heaven. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

World Cup 2022: Team of the Tournament

(4-1-3-2): Martínez; Hakimi, Upamecano, Gvardiol, Acuña; Amrabat; Fernández, Mac Allister, Griezmann; Mbappé, Messi (c)

Read my justification for this selection below.


The back 5

Emi Martínez is the obvious pick between the sticks. Penalty shootout heroics, banter, distracting antics and shot-stopping extraordinaire. Achraf Hakimi was superb for the Atlas Lions on their ferocious run to the semifinals, and he was part of a back 4 that kept 4 clean sheets. I loved his Panenka penalty against Spain too.

World Cup: Lionel Scaloni’s DESPERATE plea to Messi in 2016

Dayot Upamecano conceded 3 goals last night, but he was superb, putting his body on the line and making crucial blocks. Though he ended up on the losing side, it was a brave individual performance in a final. Not bad for a guy who was sidelined by flu just a couple of days prior. 20-year-old Croatian Joško Gvardiol gets the other slot in central defence, because this guy is going to be one of the best in the world before long. Messi showed him who’s boss in the semifinals but Messi has done that to the best in the business too. Although Marcos Acuña didn’t start last night’s final, he made a telling contribution off the bench and was rock-solid throughout the month in Qatar.

fifa world cup 2022
Achraf Hakimi hits the decisive penalty with a cheeky Panenka. Photo by KARIM JAAFAR / AFP)

Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God


A formidable midfield

I’m going for a midfield diamond with Sofyan Amrabat at the base. He covered virtually every glade of grass in Qatar, becoming the first player to win possession 50 times at World Cup 2022. Club side Fiorentina can expect some serious bids for his services. Ahead of him, young Player of the Tournament Enzo Fernández and the massively underrated Alexis Mac Allister. Then, although Antoine Griezmann had a stinker in the final, he was superb throughout the tournament as a whole.

World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

World Cup 2022
Sofyan Amrabat is relebtless. Photo: AFP

A stunning attack

Up front, it can only be PSG duo Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. Mbappé won the Golden Boot, hitting a hat-trick in the final (first man to do that since 1966 and only the second man ever) making this a surreal bittersweet experience for the 23-year-old superstar. He’ll be back for more. Messi scored in every single round of the tournament, also the first man ever to do so. He broke a pile of other records too.

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers

World Cup final Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

What do you think of this team? Who’s bene unfairly left out?


World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-stats-the-foot-of-god-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:53:24 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406598 It’s ironic that the great man bundled the ball home in scruffy fashion with his weaker foot last night, but for a man that can do anything, it’s not all that surprising. These Lionel Messi stats are proof of the existence of The Foot of God.

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady


Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God

  • 1003 appearances for club and country
  • 793 goals
  • All-time leading goal-scorer for Argentina (98*) and FC Barcelona (672)
  • 350 assists
  • 4 x Champions League titles
  • 10 x LaLiga titles
  • In 2011-12, Messi scored 73 goals in 60 matches for Barcelona, breaking Gerd Müller’s all-time record for a European club
  • 42 team titles, making him the joint-most decorated player of all time alongside Dani Alves
  • 7 x Ballon d’Or (all-time leader)
  • Olympic Gold medal in 2008
  • Copa América winner in 2021
  • Champion of the World in 2022

GOAT? Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years

Messi’s career has been decorated by beautiful goals of all types, the majority of those struck by his iconic left foot.

world cup final lionel messi
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi (2nd R) celebrates with teammates after Argentina won the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

Diego Maradona and the Hand of God

Most of us aren’t old enough to remember this, but we all know exactly what happened and who Maradona perpetrated it against. In the VAR era this goal wouldn’t have stood, but this wasn’t in the VAR era and Argentina progressed to the sem-finals at England’s expense. They went all the way to the trophy that year. It’s been 36 years, but La Albiceleste finally have their hands on the World Cup again. In this case, they’re allowed to use them.

Lionel Messi Diego Maradona
The infamous Hand of God. Image: FIFA

World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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World Cup: Lionel Scaloni’s DESPERATE plea to Messi in 2016 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-lionel-scaloni-desperate-plea-to-messi-throwback-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:45:04 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405758 All seemed lost for Lionel Messi back in 2016 when he called time on his international career. Now, he’s a World champion aged 35.

This little throwback involving Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and his namesake, some guy called Messi, is absolutely incredible.

LOL: The Piers Morgan prediction that went horribly wrong


Scaloni’s desperate plea to Lionel Messi back in 2016

Messi faced a crossroads after Copa America defeat in 2016 and seemed exhausted by the weight of expectation on his shoulders. This wasn’t the first image of the great man surrounded by scrambling defenders, and it won’t be the last.

Scaloni and Messi collaborate to win world football’s biggest prize but not before this amazing memory. Image: @espnfc / Twitter.

Messi makes big statement on his future

With Copa America just 18 months away, it’s not out of the question to assume that Messi will be there.

WC 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Lionel Messi World Cup
Lionel Messi has ascended to World Cup heaven. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

GOIAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

MAGIC MEMORIES: Relive the best images, memories and moments


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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World Cup final: The Piers Morgan prediction that went horribly wrong https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/world-cup-final-piers-morgan-prediction-that-went-horribly-wrong-lol-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:28:56 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406426 It’s always fun seeing Piers Morgan embarrass himself, and he’s done it again with his World Cup final prediction.

UNSUNG HERO: A tribute to Argentina’s unsung soaring seagull

GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

World Cup final: Oops, Piers Morgan has done it again

France certainly didn’t beat Argentina 3-1, and they certainly didn’t win the World Cup. He was also wrong about Mbappé scoring twice, because he actually got a hat-trick. We’re not sure whether or not Messi did cry, but if he did, there were tears of joy coming out of his face. Griezmann was superb throughout the tournament but chose an awful time to have an awful match. In truth, most of his teammates were bad too.

Qatar 2022: Best images, moments and memories

Piers Morgan’s weird obsession with Cristiano Ronaldo has gotten a little strange. It’s perfectly possible to appreciate both players, except when your job is to cause outrage and polarize people, then you’re forced to love one and hate the other.


Anyway, I hope that Piers Morgan steps on a piece of Lego today.

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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World Cup 2022: A tribute to Argentina’s unsung soaring seagull https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/world-cup-2022-tribute-to-argentina-most-underrated-player-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 08:38:37 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405751 La Albiceleste will still be dancing in the streets from Rosario to Buenos Aires after an epic World Cup 2022 win in Qatar. We’re here to discuss one of their most talented unsung heroes.

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed


World Cup 2022: Mac Allister shines in the background

Brighton & Hove Albion have a World Cup winner on their books. 23-year-old midfielder Alexis Mac Allister’s sharp rise has been a sensational one, and his performances in Qatar will make him a wanted man. Here’s a summary of his outputs for Argentina on their glorious run.

WOW: Messi makes big statement on his Argentina future

World Cup Lionel Messi
Fans of Argentina celebrate at La Bajada neighbourhood, where Messi lived as a child. Photo by STR / AFP)

Alexis Mac Allister at World Cup 2022 in a nutshell

Mac Allister vs Mexico

Made the most tackles of any player and completed all of his dribbles.

Mac Allister vs Poland

Scored and was named man of the match.

World Cup winner: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady

World Cup 2022 unsung hero Alexis Mac Allister
Mac Allister got his moment. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

Mac Allister vs Netherlands

Completed all of his dribbles and won all of his tackles.

Mac Allister vs Croatia

Won 100% of his tackles and completed 90% of his passes.

Mac Allister vs France

Inch-perfect assist for Angel Di María’s glorious counter-attacking goal, and completed 100% of his dribbles.

World Cup 2022 Alexis Mac Allister Angel Di Maria
Angel Di Maria’s sublime goal sparked wild celebrations. Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

Mac Allister’s family has links with Maradona

Carlos Javier Mac Allister, Alexis’s father, played with Diego Maradona for Argentina, and now he’s seen his son link up with Lionel Messi and win the biggest prize in sport. That is some story, and surely the Mac Allister family can make a claim that nobody else can.

Where will Alexis Mac Allister be playing his football next? He’s a top-class operator with plenty of options.


World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

GOAT? Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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World Cup winner Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/world-cup-winner-lionel-messi-stands-alongside-michael-jordan-usain-bolt-tom-brady-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 08:30:16 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405940 Lionel Messi wasn’t even born yet when Argentina last won the World Cup. Now, the memory of their 2022 triumph will forever be immortalized in his honour.

Does this priceless accolade place him among the pantheon of greats across all sporting disciplines and all generations? That’s a rhetorical question. Just look at this utter dominance and longevity.

World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Hang this in the Louvre. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

LIONEL MESSI: WORLD CUP WINNER

  • 1003 appearances for club and country
  • 793 goals
  • All-time leading goal-scorer for Argentina (98*) and FC Barcelona (672)
  • 350 assists
  • 4 x Champions League titles
  • 10 x LaLiga titles
  • In 2011-12, Messi scored 73 goals in 60 matches for Barcelona, breaking Gerd Müller’s all-time record for a European club
  • 42 team titles, making him the joint-most decorated player of all time alongside Dani Alves
  • 7 x Ballon d’Or (all-time leader)
  • Olympic Gold medal in 2008
  • Copa América winner in 2021
  • Champion of the World in 2022

GOAT? Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years


MESSI AT THE WORLD CUP

  • 13 goals, all-time leading scorer for Argentina, and ahead of Pelé (12)
  • 26 appearances, all-time leader
  • Only player in history to both score and assist in three separate matches in a single edition 
  • Only player ever to win two Player of the Tournament awards
  • Only player in history to score a World Cup goal in his teens, 20s and 30s

Kylian Mbappé: These ridiculous numbers don’t make sense

Lionel Messi: Net worth and PSG salary

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
Argentina are champions of the world for the first time since 1986. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

MESSI THE EVERGREEN PLAYMAKER

The great man is now 35 but, ridiculously, his tally of 18 goals for Argentina in 2022 makes it his most prolific calendar year for the national team. For club and country, he’s played 51 matches this year, scoring 35 goals and assisting 30. A truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime combination of goal-scorer and goal-creator. The last two goals he scored in 2022 happened to be in the World Cup final. Good timing. The greats always have good timing.

VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?

The discussion is over. Lionel Messi isn’t just the greatest footballer that ever lived, he’s now up alongside the greatest sportsmen in any discipline. But, if you’d like to discuss it further, do so in the comments by all means.

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
The moment. Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-breaking-news-roundup-best-stories-messi-records-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 07:30:02 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406117 It’s been a whirlwind 12 hours in the aftermath of Argentina’s memorable World Cup success. Here’s a whip-around of the most gripping stories, including some extremely wholesome Lionel Messi family images.

GOAT: Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years


World Cup 2022: Latest news roundup

What is Messi’s net worth and PSG salary?

Lionel Messi is now a champion of the world after his heroic exploits in last night’s final for Argentina vs France. To go with it, he also has the comfort of knowing he’s the highest paid athlete on the planet for 2022.

MESSI’S STAGGERING NET WORTH


Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers

Lionel Messi has completed his own personal set of accolades. Take a closer look at an astonishing career by the numbers.

THE GOAT’S STATS

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar will be forever remembered as the time when Africa made the final four. It will also be fondly cherished for its stunning upsets, and the time that Lionel Messi ended a 36-year World Cup drought for his beloved Argentina.

BEST UNFORGETTABLE IMAGES

Lionel Messi
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi celebrates with his children at the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)

Lionel Messi makes statement on his Argentina future: ‘I love football, it’s what I do.’

The 35-year-old has made a big statement on the immediate future for him in an Argentina jersey.

IT’S NOT OVER


Mama Messi: Lionel celebrates World Cup win with his mom

Watch the touching moment when Lionel Messi’s mother, Celia María Cuccittini, runs onto the field and engulfs him.

MAMA MESSI!


Kylian Mbappé: These ridiculous numbers don’t make sense

Kylian Mbappé is not even 24 years old yet and he’s already doing things many World Cup greats have never done before. Despite heartbreak in the final, he produced yet another magical display and he’ll be back for more. What a player.

FUTURE BALLON D’OR?

World Cup final Lionel Messi
Agony and ecstasy in the biggest football match. of all. Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

ICYMI: Argentina 3-3 AET match report

Lionel Messi wasn’t born yet when Argentina last won the World Cup, and today he was instrumental in their first triumph since 1986.

BREATHLESS


Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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FIFA World Cup Final Gallery: Best pics https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-final-gallery-best-pictures-photos-breaking-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 07:18:45 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406209 After Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick ensured the game ended equal at 3-3 after extra time, Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to victory over France on penalties in a World Cup final to remember on Sunday. 

Lionel Messi
Argentina’s captain and forward #10 Lionel Messi, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and sons Thiago (C) and Ciro pose with the FIFA World Cup Trophy after Argentina won the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

Gonzalo Montiel converted the winning penalty to give Argentina their third World Cup and keep France from being the first team to win the championship back to back in 60 years.

FIFA World Cup final
Argentina’s players celebrate as Argentina’s defender #04 Gonzalo Montiel scores the winning goal during penalty shootouts at the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)

Messi and Kylian Mbappe lived up to their billing.

ALSO READ: Argentina take a moment to ‘bask in the glory’ of World Cup win

FIFA World Cup Final
France’s forward #10 Kylian Mbappe strikes the ball to score his team’s second goal during the Qatar 2022 World Cup football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)

Messi opened the scoring with a penalty midway through the first half before Angel Di Maria doubled Argentina’s lead on the counter-attack in the 36th minute.

FIFA World Cup final
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi fights for the ball with France’s midfielder #25 Eduardo Camavinga during the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

But the astonishing Mbappe breathed life into the holders as he pulled one back from the spot with 10 minutes left before equalising in stunning fashion just 60 seconds later to force extra time.

FIFA World Cup final
France’s forward #10 Kylian Mbappe takes a penalty to score his team’s third goal from the penalty spot during the Qatar 2022 World Cup football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

Messi then seemed to have decided the contest in Argentina’s favour once and for all when he scored again in the 109th minute, only for Mbappe to net another spot-kick, making it 3-3 and forcing a shoot-out.

Messi
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi (C) controls the ball as he is marked by France’s midfielder #08 Aurelien Tchouameni (L) during the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

The third World Cup final penalty shoot-out started with Messi and Mbappe both scoring, but Kingsley Coman’s next kick for France was saved and Aurelien Tchouameni then crucially missed the target.

FIFA World Cup Final
France’s midfielder #08 Aurelien Tchouameni and France’s goalkeeper #23 Alphonse Areola walk past the trophy after receiving their silver medals during the Qatar 2022 World Cup trophy ceremony after losing the football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. – Argentina won in the penalty shoot-out. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

It is the second time in five World Cups that France have lost the final on penalties after their defeat to Italy in 2006, and it is Argentina who are champions for the first time since 1986.

World Cup
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi lifts the World Cup trophy during the Qatar 2022 World Cup trophy ceremony after the football final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. – Argentina won in the penalty shoot-out. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

The win allows Messi, at 35, to complete his glorious career by emulating the great Diego Maradona.

Messi
Argentina’s captain and forward #10 Lionel Messi kisses the FIFA World Cup Trophy during the trophy ceremony after Argentina won the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

“Obviously I wanted to finish my career with this. I can’t ask for any more,” he told Argentine television.”My career is coming to end because these are my final years. What more could there be after this?”

World Cup
Fans of Argentina celebrate winning the Qatar 2022 World Cup against France at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires, on December 18, 2022. (Photo by TOMAS CUESTA / AFP)
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Lionel Messi: Net worth and PSG salary https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-net-worth-psg-salary-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:56:36 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406191 Lionel Messi is now a champion of the world after his heroic exploits in the World Cup final for Argentina vs France. To go with it, he also has the comfort of knowing he’s the highest paid athlete on the planet for 2022.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments


Lionel Messi: Net worth, 2022 earnings & PSG salary

According to Forbes, Messi took home $130m between May 2021 and May 2022. This via Insider.

The 35-year-old took home $75 million in on-field earnings over the last year – more than any other sportsperson on the planet, which was supplemented by various endorsement deals. That $55 million could only be eclipsed by Roger Federer and LeBron James in that period.

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Messi held aloft with the biggest prize in football. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)

PSG salary

His PSG salary alone stands at $35 million annually, which equates $738,000 a week, or $105,000 a day, or $8,790 (R155,000) per hour. Messi also bagged $25 million as a joining fee when he signed for the Parisians, reported the Evening Standard. 


Lionel Messi: What’s his net worth?

According to Forbes, Messi has earned $1.15 billion during his career, through both his on and off the field exploits. Only three currently active athletes – LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Tiger Woods – have ever earned more than that. Ask Messi what he cherishes most, though, and it’s likely that he’ll say that it’s a World Cup crown with Argentina.

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
The moment. Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Lionel Messi not ready to retire yet, to continue Argentina career https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-not-ready-retire-continue-argentina-career-breaking-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:39:40 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406184 On Sunday, Argentina’s Lionel Messi promised to keep representing his nation even after achieving his lifelong goal of winning the World Cup.

Messi made it clear that he isn’t done with international football.

Lionel Messi to continue Argentina career

ALSO READ: Argentina take a moment to ‘bask in the glory’ of World Cup win

The 35-year-old could conceivably still play a role in Argentina’s defense of the World Cup in North America.

“I want to keep experiencing a few more matches as world champion,” Messi told television reporters from Argentina following the country’s epic penalty shoot-out victory over France in the World Cup final in Doha.

After the Argentina captain won the one big international prize that was missing from his resume, Messi acknowledged that his career was almost over. Although he described these as his final years, not year.

Lionel Messi
Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi celebrates with his children at the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Jewel SAMAD / AFP)

Prior to the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner scoring his penalty in the shootout that Argentina won 4-2, the Paris Saint-Germain frontman also scored two goals in the dramatic and tumultuous final that ended 3-3 after 120 riveting minutes.

“Obviously I would like to end my career with this, I cannot ask for more,” said Messi.

“My career is nearly over because these are my last years.”

Messi claimed he always felt his moment would come despite experiencing so many setbacks on the grandest platforms in football, including losing the 2014 World Cup final to Germany in Brazil.

“It’s crazy that it happened at the time it happened, but it’s amazing,” he said.

“It’s amazing that it could end this way. I said previously that God was going to grant me this and I don’t know why but I felt it was going to be this time.”

Messi also gave his opinion of the final match itself, describing it as very strange.

“It was a very strange match, the same as the other one against the Netherlands, and then when we went ahead in extra-time it happened again,” said Messi.

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Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-world-cup-winner-mind-boggling-career-in-numbers-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405951 Lionel Messi’s World Cup triumph completes his set of astonishing achievements.

VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?

GOAT? Record-breaking Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years


LIONEL MESSI: TALE OF THE TAPE SO FAR

  • 1003 appearances for club and country
  • 793 goals
  • All-time leading goal-scorer for Argentina (98*) and FC Barcelona (672)
  • 350 assists
  • 4 x Champions League titles
  • 10 x LaLiga titles
  • In 2011-12, Messi scored 73 goals in 60 matches for Barcelona, breaking Gerd Müller’s all-time record for a European club
  • 42 team titles, making him the joint-most decorated player of all time alongside Dani Alves
  • 7 x Ballon d’Or (all-time leader)
  • Olympic Gold medal in 2008
  • Copa América winner in 2021
  • Champion of the World in 2022

FIFA World Cup: Messi wins Player of the Tournament

Lionel Messi World Cup
Lionel Messi has ascended to World Cup heaven. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

MESSI AT WORLD CUPS

  • 13 goals, all-time leading scorer for Argentina, and ahead of Pele (12)
  • 26 appearances, all-time leader
  • Only player in history to both score and assist in three separate matches in a single edition 
  • Only player ever to win two Player of the Tournament awards
  • Only player in history to score a World Cup goal in his teens, 20s and 30s
World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi
Argentina are champions of the world for the first time since 1986. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

Messi plans to continue for the foreseeable future in an Argentina jersey too.

Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Kylian Mbappe wins World Cup Golden Boot https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/kylian-mbappe-wins-world-cup-golden-boot-breaking-18-december/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 05:10:03 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405780 France striker Kylian Mbappe won the World Cup Golden Boot award with eight goals after scoring a hat-trick in Sunday’s final defeat by Argentina on penalties following a 3-3 draw.

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ALSO READ | KEY MOMENTS FROM THE WORLD CUP FINAL

Mbappe became just the second man to score three times in a World Cup final after England’s Geoff Hurst in 1966 and finished one goal ahead of Lionel Messi, named as the tournament’s best player.

Messi is the first player to score in the group stage and all four rounds in the knockout phase.

ALSO READ | ELON MUSK TWEETS UP A STORM AT WORLD CUP FINAL

The 23-year-old has scored 12 World Cup goals in 14 matches and is level with Brazil legend Pele in sixth on the all-time list.

Mbappe is only the second player to find the target in successive World Cup finals after Vava, who scored in Brazil’s wins in 1958 and 1962.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward’s four goals in World Cup finals are also the most in history.

ALSO READ | EVERY WORLD CUP WINNER TO DATE – UPDATED

By Garrin Lambley © Agence France-Presse

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Lionel Messi makes statement on his Argentina future: ‘I love football, it’s what I do.’ https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/lionel-messi-makes-big-statement-on-argentina-future-breaking-19-december-2022/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 04:41:34 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1406003 Lionel Messi is now a champion of the world. Yes, it really happened. And now, the great man has shed some light on his immediate plans for the newly-crowned World Cup winners.

Lionel Messi: Net worth and PSG salary

GOAT: Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years


Lionel Messi makes big Argentina statement

According to the BBC, 35-year-old Messi plans to continue in an Argentina jersey after winning the World Cup last night against France.

“I love football, it’s what I do.”

FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments

World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed

Lionel Messi World Cup 2022
Hang this in the Louvre. Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

With the next Copa América roughly 18 months away, it’s totally conceivable that Messi will be available to lead his side’s title defence of their South American crown.

Lionel Messi: World Cup winner’s mind-boggling career in numbers


ICYMI: Messi conquers his final peak

Argentina are the champions of the world for the third time in their history after an all-time classic World Cup final which they eventually won on penalties following a 3-3 draw after extra time.

VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?

What a game. One of the greatest football matches of all time. Funny to think that Argentina lost on the opening day against Saudi Arabia on November 22nd. It remains their only defeat since 2019, and it feels like an awful long time ago now.

World Cup 2022 Lionel Messi Angel Di Maria
Argentina’s two goal-scorers on their day of destiny. Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP)


It seems as though we’ll get to enjoy more Messi magic for a while yet. Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle

Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.

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Argentina take a moment to ‘bask in the glory’ of World Cup win https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/argentina-bask-glory-world-cup-win-breaking-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 21:14:43 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405835 The World Cup final between Argentina and France was decided on penalties, and coach Lionel Scaloni encouraged his countrymen to bask in the glory of the incredible moment.

Argentina got the job done in a dramatic final that exceeded expectations.

Argentina take a moment to ‘bask in the glory’

In the end it went down to penalties after Argentina twice thought they had it won.

“It hasn’t yet sunk in but this is a moment to enjoy, especially the people,” Scaloni told the official World Cup media channel in Doha.

“We who live by this have had ups and downs, we’re used to these things happening to us, taking blows,” he added after the remarkable topsy turvy final in the Lusail stadium.

Messi kisses the World Cup Argentina
Messi kisses the World Cup trophy.

After a brace from Lionel Messi and a goal from Angel Di Maria that capped off an exquisite one-touch team effort, Argentina led 2-0 at the break and 3-2 with a few minutes remaining in extra time.

ALSO READ: Argentina star: ‘It was our destiny to suffer’

However, Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick kept France in the game and forced a thrilling shootout.

Argentina won its third World Cup and first since the late great Diego Maradona spurred them to win in 1986 thanks to goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s save from Kingsley Coman and Gonzalo Montiel’s brilliant strike.

The dog days are over

“This is what happened today, they (France) reacted and that’s huge credit to them,” said Scaloni, 44, who had also guided them to Copa America victory last year, thus ending a 28-year wait for a major trophy and breaking a mental block.

“Above all, it is an incredible enjoyment to be at the top, as we are, it’s something unique.”

Scaloni paid tribute to his parents adding: “They gave me a way of understanding, of never giving up, and of never going against anyone else, but to always go forwards. Today it paid off!”

He rounded off by saying: “I was lucky to be here and I’m thankful to everyone.”

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France coach laments ‘cruel’ defeat to Argentina https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/france-coach-laments-cruel-defeat-to-argentina-breaking-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:59:55 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405828 France coach Didier Deschamps has lamented a cruel end to his team’s incredible World Cup run.

In the end Argentina got the better of them in a penalty shootout but Deschamps couldn’t be more proud of his players.

France suffer cruel defeat

Deschamps was left to wonder what might have been had France not surrendered the initiative to Argentina early.

ALSO READ: Argentina star says ‘It was our destiny to suffer’

“We were not as good in the first 60 minutes against top-quality opponents who had a lot more energy, but we came back from nowhere and turned the game around from a very difficult situation. That leaves us with even more regrets,” said Deschamps after France failed in their bid to become the first team in 60 years to retain the trophy.

Late in the game, in Doha, Kylian Mbappe scored twice in two minutes to tie the score and force overtime, erasing Argentina’s two-goal advantage. Lionel Messi then scored to put the other team back in ahead, making the score 3-3.

Argentina France
Argentina’s goalkeeper #23 Emiliano Martinez lets in a shot. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez then stopped Randal Kolo Muani from scoring with seconds remaining, and Argentina went on to win the shootout 4-2, with Aurelien Tchouameni missing the mark and Kingsley Coman of France having his penalty saved.

“We had a chance to win the World Cup in the last minute but it wasn’t to be,” Deschamps said.

“At 2-0 there would not have been the same regrets, you just say ‘bravo’ to them.

“I don’t want to take any merit away from Argentina but there were lots and lots of emotions and it was cruel at the end because we were so close.”

Down with the sickness

The sickness that some of the France players fell ill with in the weeks leading up to the championship game, according to Deschamps, may have contributed to their subpar performance in the opening hour.

“There were many reasons which explained why we were not as good. Several important players had less energy but bringing on younger players with less experience but plenty of freshness and quality allowed us to keep dreaming.

“But unfortunately the dream did not come true.”

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Mama Messi: Lionel celebrates World Cup win with his mom https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/mama-messi-lionel-celebrates-world-cup-win-with-his-mom-video-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:47:19 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405800 Watch the touching moment when Lionel Messi’s jubilant mother, Celia María Cuccittini, runs onto the field and engulfs her son in a hug after his heroics in the World Cup final.

The 36-year-old Messi inspired Argentina to a World Cup triumph after a gripping final against France in Qatar.

WATCH: Messi finally lifts the World Cup

See below how Messi’s proud and elated mother, Celia María Cuccittini, shared in her son’s joy after the final whistle.

https://twitter.com/DaaruBaazMehta/status/1604546104481419264

Argentina and France were deadlocked at 3-3 after the World Cup final had gone to extra-time, with Messi and Kylian Mbappe both taking centre stage for their respective teams. Messi scored twice for the South Americans and Mbappe bagged a hat-trick to keep France in the hunt for the title.

ALSO READ: MESSI reaction the MOMENT Argentina won the World Cup

The game was ultimately decided on penalties, which Argentina dominating the shootout to win it 4-2 to be crowned world champions.

Commenting on the achievement in a post-match interview, Messi said: “This was the trophy I wanted all my life. This was my childhood dream.”

Twitter reaction: ‘Greatest final of all time’

PAST WINNERS OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP:

1930 – Uruguay (beat Argentina 4-2)

1934 – Italy (beat Czechoslovakia 2-1 a.e.t)

1938 – Italy (beat Hungary 4-2)

1942 – No tournament

1946 – No tournament

1950 – Uruguay (No final)

1954 – West Germany (beat Hungary 3-2)

1958 – Brazil (beat Sweden 5-2)

1962 – Brazil (beat Czechoslovakia 3-1)

1966 – England (beat West Germany 4-2 a.e.t)

1970 – Brazil (beat Italy 4-1)

1974 – West Germany (beat Netherlands 2-1)

1978 – Argentina (beat Netherlands 3-1 a.e.t)

1982 – Italy (beat West Germany 3-1)

1986 – Argentina (beat West Germany 3-2)

1990 – West Germany (beat Argentina 1-0)

1994 – Brazil (beat Italy 3-2 on penalties after 0-0 a.e.t)

1998 – France (beat Brazil 3-0)

2002 – Brazil (beat Germany 2-0)

2006 – Italy (beat France 5-3 on penalties after 1-1 a.e.t)

2010 – Spain (beat Netherlands 1-0 a.e.t)

2014 – Germany (beat Argentina 1-0)

2018 – France (beat Croatia 4-2)

2022 – Argentina (beat France 4-2 on penalties after 3-3 a.e.t)

World Cup final: Lionel Messi BREAKS all-time appearance record

RESULTS BY NATION

Brazil – 5

Germany, Italy – 4

Argentina – 3

France, Uruguay – 2

England, Spain – 1

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi wins Player of the Tournament

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Argentina star: ‘It was our destiny to suffer’ https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/argentina-star-it-was-our-destiny-to-suffer-breaking-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:44:43 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405812 Argentina star and penalty shootout hero Emiliano Martinez believes that his team needed to suffer to make their victory that much sweeter.

Martinez was integral to Argentina winning a penalty shootout and ending a long wait to lift the FIFA World Cup after a dramatic final.

Argentina ‘had to suffer’

Arguably the best pure football match ever to be played in a World Cup final, the match had it all.

Argentina twice thought they had won it only to see France come roaring back.

Martinez’s crucial save from Kingsley Coman was the final shift in momentum though and Argentina had an unforgettable win to savour.

Argentina
Argentina’s goalkeeper #23 Emiliano Martinez poses with the FIFA Golden Glove award during the trophy ceremony at the end of the Qatar 2022 World Cup final football match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, north of Doha on December 18, 2022. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)

“It was a very complicated match, they came back to equalise in the game but it was our destiny to suffer,” said the Aston Villa keeper.

“All that I have dreamed of has been achieved. I have no words for it. I was calm during the penalty shoot-out, and everything went as we wanted. 

“I left very young for England. I dedicate this victory to all my family.”

Will Cristiano Ronaldo retire after World Cup debacle?

Argentina started their World Cup with a shock defeat to Saudi Arabia but back at the same venue it would be their great skipper Messi who lifted the trophy.

“We’re champions of the world!” exclaimed Messi across the Stadium microphone and out to the footballing world gripped by an amazing match.

Emotions run over

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was beside himself with emotion after a rollercoaster journey to the biggest match in football.

Scaloni had guided Argentina through the qualifying campaign with ease but the pressure came on after that match with Saudi Arabia.

Argentina needed their grit to get out of the group but once they did their flair really came to the fore.

Drama was ever-present for Messi and company who flirted with an exit against the Netherlands before their first shooutout win of the campaign.

Destiny appeared on their side and so it has proven as Argentina are crowned 2022 World Cup champions.

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Croatia star sparks bidding war after World Cup heroics https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/croatia-star-sparks-bidding-war-after-world-cup-heroics-breaking-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:06:03 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405783 Real Madrid and Chelsea are said to be among the clubs battling it out to sign Croatia star Josko Gvardiol.

Gvardiol was one of the standout players at the 2022 World Cup and is attracting attention from Europe’s big players.

Croatia star sparks bidding war

The RB Leipzig defender had previously been linked with a move to Chelsea before the start of the season.

However, fresh reports suggest that the defending UEFA Champions League winners are also keen on the 20-year-old.

European transfer journalist Gianluca De Marzio has suggested that Los Blancos have already presented an offer to sign the 20-year-old defender, although Chelsea have also done the same, according to the latest information.

“I know Chelsea and Real Madrid are the most interested in him (Gvardiol) at the moment. They have already made bids, but his transfer value has skyrocketed due to his performance at the World Cup,” Di Marzio told soccernews.nl.

Croatia
Croatia’s defender #20 Josko Gvardiol goes down on the pitch during the Qatar 2022 World Cup football third place play-off match between Croatia and Morocco at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on December 17, 2022. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

Letting the agent handle it

The player himself suggested that his agent would be dealing with the offers as he seeks to do his best on the field.

“About me and Chelsea? I don’t know. You know what happened in the last few months. To be honest, I have no idea.

“My agent is taking care of this and we will see. Right now, I’m happy in Leipzig. I don’t know, we will see – you never know. You know the stories and these things, but all I can say is that I’m happy in Leipzig and right now I’m going to stay there and perform for them.

“It’s a big club of course and, who knows, maybe one day I will be there. It’s really nice to see things like this, especially because there is [Mateo] Kovacic, so you never know. I talk with him.”

Will Cristiano Ronaldo retire after World Cup debacle?

Gvardiol is set to return to his Bundesliga club after the Christmas break.

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WATCH: Messi finally lifts the World Cup [video] https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/watch-lionel-messi-finally-lifts-the-world-cup-video-2022-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 20:03:00 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405742 Watch the wholesome moment when Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest footballer of all time, at long last hoists the prestigious World Cup trophy.

Argentina and France were deadlocked at 3-3 after the World Cup final had gone to extra-time, with Messi and Kylian Mbappe both taking centre stage for their respective teams. Messi scored twice for the South Americans and Mbappe bagged a hat-trick to keep France in the hunt for the title.

ALSO READ: MESSI reaction the MOMENT Argentina won the World Cup

The game was ultimately decided on penalties, which Argentina dominating the shootout to win it 4-2 to be crowned world champions.

Commenting on the achievement in a post-match interview, Messi said: “This was the trophy I wanted all my life. This was my childhood dream.”

Watch as Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates hoist the World Cup:

https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1604549977426235393

Twitter reaction: ‘Greatest final of all time’

PAST WINNERS OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP:

1930 – Uruguay (beat Argentina 4-2)

1934 – Italy (beat Czechoslovakia 2-1 a.e.t)

1938 – Italy (beat Hungary 4-2)

1942 – No tournament

1946 – No tournament

1950 – Uruguay (No final)

1954 – West Germany (beat Hungary 3-2)

1958 – Brazil (beat Sweden 5-2)

1962 – Brazil (beat Czechoslovakia 3-1)

1966 – England (beat West Germany 4-2 a.e.t)

1970 – Brazil (beat Italy 4-1)

1974 – West Germany (beat Netherlands 2-1)

1978 – Argentina (beat Netherlands 3-1 a.e.t)

1982 – Italy (beat West Germany 3-1)

1986 – Argentina (beat West Germany 3-2)

1990 – West Germany (beat Argentina 1-0)

1994 – Brazil (beat Italy 3-2 on penalties after 0-0 a.e.t)

1998 – France (beat Brazil 3-0)

2002 – Brazil (beat Germany 2-0)

2006 – Italy (beat France 5-3 on penalties after 1-1 a.e.t)

2010 – Spain (beat Netherlands 1-0 a.e.t)

2014 – Germany (beat Argentina 1-0)

2018 – France (beat Croatia 4-2)

2022 – Argentina (beat France 4-2 on penalties after 3-3 a.e.t)

World Cup final: Lionel Messi BREAKS all-time appearance record

RESULTS BY NATION

Brazil – 5

Germany, Italy – 4

Argentina – 3

France, Uruguay – 2

England, Spain – 1

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi wins Player of the Tournament

Lionel Messi looks at the World Cup lovingly.
Lionel Messi eyes up the World Cup trophy. Photo: Getty.
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Will Cristiano Ronaldo retire after World Cup debacle? https://www.thesouthafrican.com/sport/soccer/soccer-world-cup-2022/will-cristiano-ronaldo-retire-after-world-cup-debacle-breaking-18-december-2022/ Sun, 18 Dec 2022 19:49:53 +0000 https://www.thesouthafrican.com/?p=1405764 Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra believes that Cristiano Ronaldo could retire after his experiences of the last few months.

Evra believes that Ronaldo has been made into pantomime villain and he wouldn’t be suprised if the media treatment drives CR7 into seclusion.

What next for Cristiano Ronaldo

Winning the World Cup with Portugal had been the last thing left on Ronaldo’s list of goals.

ALSO READ: England back Gareth Southgate for Euro 2024

With that now seemingly out of reach, Evra feels that Ronaldo could pack it in.

“When I have talked to him I haven’t spoken about what he is going to do next,” Evra told Sky Sports.

“We have been talking more about life and family, but I don’t know. Messi is saying he will retire [from the World Cup] but I don’t know if Ronaldo will.

“Sometimes, when you are getting so much criticism, especially at the end of your career, you are like ‘OK, I think it’s time to stop’.

“That must be a feeling, especially when you are not in the starting XI of your national team, because that is what Cristiano wanted: to play, be fit and win the World Cup with his country.

“This was his dream; now he doesn’t have that dream. Although I won’t talk for Cristiano, I wouldn’t be surprised if he says he is retiring.

“Now everything Cristiano does he is a ‘bad person’, a ‘bad player’ or whatever. I wouldn’t be surprised if he decides to retire.”

Cristiano Ronaldo World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo, without a team and nursing the wounds of Portugal’s shock World Cup exit, has been training at Real Madrid. Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP

If Ronaldo is to continue his career he will need to find a new club having been released from Manchester United in the wake of his bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.

The club found Ronaldo in breach of contract and terminated his deal.

He is currently in Spain as he is training at the Real Madrid facility to keep fit while he searches for a new club.

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