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.
“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.
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.
]]>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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
]]>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.
“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 | 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
]]>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
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
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.
]]>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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
An image that would warm even the coldest of hearts.
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.
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.
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.
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.
]]>GOAT: The greatest goal of Messi’s career
MESSI STATS: The Foot of God
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.
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
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.
]]>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.
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
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:
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 Africa. Enjoy 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.
]]>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
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:
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.
]]>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
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
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
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.
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
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.
]]>Mike regrets it now.
ICYMI: Latest Kaizer Chiefs news on Thursday 5 January
The Cristiano Ronaldo effect: Staggering spike in Al-Nassr social accounts
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
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.
]]>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
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:
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.
]]>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.
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.”
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.
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!
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!
ALSO READ • Orlando Pirates target extends contract at PSL rivals!
ALSO READ • Why Zwane’s job is tougher than mine – ex Kaizer Chiefs coach
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
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
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
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!
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.
“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?
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?
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.
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.
]]>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
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
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
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.
]]>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!
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.
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
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.
]]>Latest Kaizer Chiefs news: 22 December 2022
RUMOURS: Lionel Messi set to stay at PSG, Mbappé could leave for the Premier League
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
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.
]]>Leboeuf believes there is no reason the Qatari-owned club would offload Mbappe at this time.
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.”
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
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.
“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.
]]>Leboeuf opines that Pele’s involvement in three World Cup wins sets him a rung above the likes of Messi.
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.”
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?
“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.”
]]>The previous record holder? An egg which has racked up 56.1 million likes.
Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God
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.
ICYMI: Cristiano Ronaldo offered Premier League lifeline?
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
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.
]]>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
Arthur Zwane might be closer to getting his man.
Arthur Zwane has a few aces up his sleeve for Amakhosi’s New Year’s Eve clash.
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.
Chiefs have two defenders walking the disciplinary tightrope ahead of the DStv Premiership’s much-anticipated return.
A former Chiefs and Orlando Pirates ‘keeper spotted something that many of us surely missed in the World Cup final. Great insights.
Kaizer Chiefs fans have been waiting for a bit too long. Find out why the wait for Mduduzi Shabalala is finally over.
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.
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.
]]>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
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)
]]>
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
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
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.
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.
]]>World Cup 2022: FIVE Argentines make my Team of the Tournament
LM10 is currently breaking Instagram.
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.
If Messi is the GOAT in football terms, Peter Drury is surely the commentary equivalent. Some of his quotes bring tears to our eyes.
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.
Lionel Messi, by winning the World Cup, has completed his own personal set of accolades. Take a closer look.
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.
This little throwback involving Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and his namesake, some guy called Messi, is incredibly touching.
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.
]]>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
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.
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
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.
Real GOAT: Peter Drury spitting beautiful gold facts in the World Cup final
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
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
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.
]]>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
An absolutely sensational preview to the final. I dare you not to feel something deep in your soul.
FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments
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
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
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.
]]>HMMM: Why Benni McCarthy should get the Bafana Bafana job
Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God
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:
VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?
FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments
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.
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
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.”
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.
]]>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
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
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.
]]>Team of the tournament: FIVE Argentines make the cut
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
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
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.
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.
]]>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
(4-1-3-2): Martínez; Hakimi, Upamecano, Gvardiol, Acuña; Amrabat; Fernández, Mac Allister, Griezmann; Mbappé, Messi (c)
Read my justification for this selection below.
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.
Lionel Messi stats: The Foot of God
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
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
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.
]]>GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady
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.
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.
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.
]]>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
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.
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
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.
]]>UNSUNG HERO: A tribute to Argentina’s unsung soaring seagull
GOAT: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady
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.
]]>World Cup 2022 news roundup: All the best stories you might have missed
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
Made the most tackles of any player and completed all of his dribbles.
Scored and was named man of the match.
World Cup winner: Lionel Messi stands alongside Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt and Tom Brady
Completed all of his dribbles and won all of his tackles.
Won 100% of his tackles and completed 90% of his passes.
Inch-perfect assist for Angel Di María’s glorious counter-attacking goal, and completed 100% of his dribbles.
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.
]]>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
GOAT? Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years
Kylian Mbappé: These ridiculous numbers don’t make sense
Lionel Messi: Net worth and PSG salary
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.
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.
]]>GOAT: Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years
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.
Lionel Messi has completed his own personal set of accolades. Take a closer look at an astonishing career by the numbers.
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.
The 35-year-old has made a big statement on the immediate future for him in an Argentina jersey.
Watch the touching moment when Lionel Messi’s mother, Celia María Cuccittini, runs onto the field and engulfs him.
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.
Lionel Messi wasn’t born yet when Argentina last won the World Cup, and today he was instrumental in their first triumph since 1986.
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.
]]>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.
Messi and Kylian Mbappe lived up to their billing.
ALSO READ: Argentina take a moment to ‘bask in the glory’ of World Cup win
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The win allows Messi, at 35, to complete his glorious career by emulating the great Diego Maradona.
“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?”
]]>FIFA World Cup 2022: Relive the best images, memories and moments
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
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.
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.
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.
]]>Messi made it clear that he isn’t done with international football.
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.
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.
]]>VIDEO: The greatest assist in Lionel Messi’s career?
GOAT? Record-breaking Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years
FIFA World Cup: Messi wins Player of the Tournament
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.
]]>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
]]>Lionel Messi: Net worth and PSG salary
GOAT: Record-breaking Lionel Messi steers La Albiceleste to first World Cup triumph in 36 years
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
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
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.
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.
]]>Argentina got the job done in a dramatic final that exceeded expectations.
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.
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.
“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.”
]]>In the end Argentina got the better of them in a penalty shootout but Deschamps couldn’t be more proud of his players.
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.
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.”
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.”
]]>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.
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’
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
Brazil – 5
Germany, Italy – 4
Argentina – 3
France, Uruguay – 2
England, Spain – 1
FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi wins Player of the Tournament
]]>Martinez was integral to Argentina winning a penalty shootout and ending a long wait to lift the FIFA World Cup after a dramatic final.
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.
“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.
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.
]]>Gvardiol was one of the standout players at the 2022 World Cup and is attracting attention from Europe’s big players.
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.
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.
]]>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:
Twitter reaction: ‘Greatest final of all time’
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
Brazil – 5
Germany, Italy – 4
Argentina – 3
France, Uruguay – 2
England, Spain – 1
FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi wins Player of the Tournament
]]>Evra believes that Ronaldo has been made into pantomime villain and he wouldn’t be suprised if the media treatment drives CR7 into seclusion.
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.”
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.
]]>