Sports Buzz

Tag: Argentina National Football Team – English

  • A new star is born with Messi out: Argentina win behind a stunning Thiago Almada goal

    A new star is born with Messi out: Argentina win behind a stunning Thiago Almada goal

    Argentina moved one step closer to securing their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a gritty 1-0 triumph over Uruguay on Friday in Montevideo. The reigning world champions, without Lionel Messi due to injury, found inspiration in the form of 23-year-old Thiago Almada, whose sensational strike proved decisive.

    The match, held at the iconic Estadio Centenario, was an intense battle from start to finish. Uruguay, buoyed by their earlier 2-0 victory over Argentina during qualifying, appeared poised to frustrate the Albiceleste once again. However, Almada broke the deadlock in the 68th minute with a moment of sheer brilliance.

    Messi Fan Blows Once-in-a-Lifetime Moment With Bizarre Question

    Picking up the ball on the edge of the area, the attacking midfielder unleashed a thunderous shot that rocketed into the top corner, leaving Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet with no chance. While Almada’s goal lit up the evening, Argentina’s night was not without blemish.

    It got complicated at the end

    Deep into stoppage time, Nicolas Gonzalez was shown a red card for a reckless high boot on Uruguay’s Nahitan Nandez. Despite this late setback, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team’s resilience in Messi’s absence, calling the performance “a complete match.” Scaloni also lauded Almada, emphasizing his value as a young talent ready to lead Argentina in the future.

    The victory solidifies Argentina’s dominant position at the top of the South American qualifying standings, moving them closer to automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Almada’s heroics not only showcased his potential as a key player but also reassured fans of the team’s depth and ability to thrive without their talisman, Messi.

    Argentina will look to seal their qualification when they face Brazil in their next match, a highly anticipated clash that could cement their status as regional powerhouses. For now, Almada’s stunning strike serves as a shining reminder of the next generation of Argentine talent ready to carry torch the global stage.



    Source link

  • Argentina men's national football team named AIPS Best Team of 2024

    Argentina men's national football team named AIPS Best Team of 2024

    Argentina’s men’s national football team, which won back-to-back Copa America titles, has been named AIPS Team of the Year 2024, while the Paris 2024 Olympic Games took home the AIPS Best Press Facilities award. This is the result of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) poll, in which a panel of 518 journalists from 111 countries voted.

    Football dominated the fiercely contested Best Team category, in which La Albiceleste received 579 points to win the award for the third consecutive time, beating Euro 2024 champions Spain (552 points) and Real Madrid (532 points), winners of the Champions League, LaLiga, UEFA Super Cup, Spanish Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup in 2024.

    The Paris 2024 Olympic Games scored a total of 1,507 points in the Best Press Facilities poll, followed by Euro 2024 with 714 points and Wimbledon with 321 points in third place.

    In 2024, Argentina successfully retained its place as the number one ranked men’s football team in the world after producing a series of impressive performances to win a record 16th Copa America title and maintain its lead in the CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Thanks to an extra-time goal from substitute Lautaro Martinez, the reigning world champions ended Colombia’s 28-match unbeaten run in the Copa America 2024 final at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on July 15 to claim their third consecutive major title. Martinez was the tournament’s top scorer with five goals, while Emiliano Martinez was the best goalkeeper.

    Two months later, La Albiceleste would see their own 12-match unbeaten run come to a dramatic end as Colombia secured a 2-1 World Cup qualifying victory. Despite suffering two defeats and a draw in the 2024 qualifying schedule, Argentina still sit comfortably at the top of the table with 25 points from 12 matches.

    Here is the Top 10

    1. Argentina men’s national football team – Soccer – 579

    2. Spain men’s national football team – Soccer- 552

    3. Real Madrid men’s football club – Soccer – 532

    4. USA men’s basketball team – Basketball – 360

    5. Barcelona Women’s Football Club – Soccer – 278

    6. Italy women’s national volleyball team – Volleyball – 219

    7. Boston Celtics – Basketball – 184

    8. USA Women’s Gymnastics Team – Gymnastics – 172

    9. Manchester City men’s football club – Soccer – 170

    10. Denmark men’s national handball team – Handball – 165



    Source link

  • When will Lionel Messi play again with Inter Miami? Argentinian's comeback has been delayed

    When will Lionel Messi play again with Inter Miami? Argentinian's comeback has been delayed

    Lionel Messi’s ongoing injury saga continues to stir concerns as the legendary forward has been ruled out of Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

    Messi was chased down by stalker fans in a hotel

    Messi’s recovery taking longer than expected

    The 37-year-old has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury during the Copa America final, leaving both fans and his teams anxiously awaiting his return.

    Despite initial hopes that Messi might soon be back on the pitch, reports suggest that his recovery is still ongoing.

    According to Argentinian journalist Hernn Claus, Messi is focused on strengthening his ankle and progressing cautiously.

    Although he has not yet resumed group training, there is cautious optimism that he could feature in Inter Miami’s match against Chicago Fire on August 31.

    However, the primary target remains the September 14 clash with Philadelphia Union.

    Inter Miami, the club Messi joined in 2023, has been navigating a challenging period without their star player.

    Head coach Tata Martino has remained tight-lipped about Messi’s exact return date, but the team has managed to hold its own in the MLS.

    With a solid 8-3-3 record in games Messi hasn’t started, the Herons have shown resilience, even as they eagerly anticipate his return.

    Will Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?

    Messi’s absence from Argentina’s squad for the World Cup qualifiers is also significant.

    With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, questions are beginning to surface about Messi’s ability to continue competing at the highest level.

    The intense demands of balancing club and international duties, combined with his recent injury history, have raised concerns about his long-term fitness.

    As Messi’s recovery continues, the pressure is mounting on both Inter Miami and Argentina.

    The Florida-based club is keen to have their talisman back in time for the MLS playoffs, while Argentina hopes to see him leading the national team once again.

    For now, fans will have to wait a little longer to see Lionel Messi back in action.

    Whether he will return at full strength remains to be seen.



    Source link

  • Argentina clinches Copa America title with extra-time victory over Colombia

    Argentina clinches Copa America title with extra-time victory over Colombia

    Argentina claimed the 2024 Copa Amrica championship by defeating Colombia 1-0, thanks to an extra-time goal. The match remained goalless until Lautaro Martinez scored in the 112th minute, sealing Argentina’s victory.

    Martinez, who finished as the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals, netted the winner following a turnover that led to a breakaway. His shot flew past Colombia’s goalkeeper, Camilo Vargas, ensuring Argentina’s triumph.

    As the reigning Copa Amrica and World Cup champions, Argentina entered the tournament as favorites and maintained their status by never trailing in any match. However, they faced adversity in the final when Lionel Messi had to leave the game in the 66th minute due to an ankle injury.

    The game was delayed due to security breaches

    The match was delayed for over an hour as fans without tickets attempted to breach the stadium. Social media footage showed numerous supporters, predominantly in Colombia‘s colors, climbing over barriers and eluding security. The commotion resulted in some fans needing medical attention and water in the intense heat. Eventually, security forces managed to contain the situation, allowing the match to proceed.

    Despite the disruption, Colombia started the game energetically and created several chances, testing Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martnez. However, they were unable to convert their opportunities into goals.

    This defeat ended Colombia‘s impressive 28-game unbeaten streak, which began after their last loss to Argentina in February 2022. Colombia also played without key defender Daniel Muoz, who was suspended following a red card in their semifinal against Uruguay.

    Argentina’s victory not only highlights their continued dominance in international soccer but also sets a promising stage for the future, even as they navigate challenges such as Messi‘s injury.



    Source link

  • Police detain dozens of fans who tried to enter Copa America without tickets destroying everything in their path

    Police detain dozens of fans who tried to enter Copa America without tickets destroying everything in their path

    The chaos and disaster in the organization for the final of the Copa America already had huge consequences, not only the delay in the game for more than an hour but the authorities were forced to arrest the fans they detected wanted to enter without a ticket and those who caused damages to the Dolphins’ stadium.

    Police and other law enforcement report arrests

    The authorities and the organizing committee of the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia decided to open the doors of the Hard Rock Stadium for the entry of fans, and this decision was to prevent chaos at the time of access of people.

    Videos showed fans from both countries, Argentina and Colombia, jumping over the gates and running to get lost among the fans who entered with their original tickets.

    The Florida Police had to reinforce security as soon as order was restored and within minutes arrested several of the fans who entered without tickets.

    Following the incidents, several areas of the stadium were temporarily closed until the organization’s authorities could control the situation.

    It should be noted that, with less than two hours to go before kick-off, only a few fans were able to enter the Hard Rock Stadium, which is currently at less than 50% of its capacity.

    The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) had warned fans and players in a statement about good behavior inside and outside the stadium.

    “The U.S. authorities may take civil, criminal or other legal action for acts of violence committed inside and outside, as well as in the vicinity of the stadiums where the matches are played.”



    Source link

  • Rapper Drake bets $300k for Canada to beat Argentina: Is the 'Drake Curse' back?

    Rapper Drake bets $300k for Canada to beat Argentina: Is the 'Drake Curse' back?

    The Canada National Football Team needs all the luck it can get as they face the reigning Copa America champions, the Argentina National Football Team later on Tuesday. They are certainly hoping to get all the good vibes from their fellow country people but perhaps rapper Drake could keep that support for himself. Bfore the game starts at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Drake wanted to make sure he showed love to his compatriots. In a rcent post on his social media, the famous rapper decided to wager $300,000 on Canada going through to the Copa America final over Argentina. Keep in mind that Canada is the only country from Concacaf left in this stage of the tournament. On the other side, we have Uruguay facing Colombia for a spot in the final.

    All eyes on Messi’s Argentina as Canada aims to make history

    Is the Drake Curse back?

    Remember Drake earned millions from the last Super Bowl where he bet on the Kansas City Chiefs to win. But most of his wagers have been a bust and people still feel like he may be responsible for some of these adverse results. All of that is nothing but superstition but Drake is currently going through a terrible summer. The man could use a small victory amid all the abuse he has endured, mainly from Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics. As you all know, Drake made the terrible decision to get himself into a rap battle with arguably the greatest rap lyricist in history. Nobody but perhaps him expected a different outcome of this battle. It would be a great idea if Drake would focus on his career and his gambling addiction instead of trying to respond to Kendrick one more time.

    The fact that Canada already had a difficult-enough task to defeat the current Copa America champion wasn’t enough for Drake to realize he was adding extra pressure on the players with this wager. If he wins this bet, Drake will be considered partly responsible for it. Winning this bet means he would be earning around $2.5 million from the $300k he bet. That is a +900 on Stake, menaing Argentina is the overwhelming favorite. Make sure you watch the game at 8 p.m. ET on Fox Sports and Univision. Does Canada even have a chance against Argentina or is Drake wasting $300,000?



    Source link

  • Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates drip with style during photoshoot for Palm Angels collab

    Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates drip with style during photoshoot for Palm Angels collab

    Just when you thought Lionel Messicouldn’t get any cooler, he goes and does something like this. Picture this: the Argentina national football team, fresh off their Copa America 2024 campaign, decked out in gear so stylish it makes the runway look like a catwalk for amateurs. That’s right, Palm Angels has teamed up with Messi and company, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

    In a recently released video, the Argentina squad struts their stuff in a photoshoot that’s causing quite a buzz. Palm Angels, known for their unique blend of high fashion and streetwear, have provided the team with both formal uniforms and leisurewear. This collaboration allows the players to express their shared values during official events and those much-needed relaxed moments alike.

    Through social media, Palm Angels assured fans that this partnership is all about “emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strengthening individual identity within the group dynamic.” And boy, do they nail it. Each player received two distinct looks, each more stylish than the last.

    Elegance meets edge: Argentina’s fashion fusion with Palm Angels

    The formal ensemble is a masterpiece: a dark blue blazer with an embroidered monogram on the breast pocket and the AFA shield in gold, paired with a light blue shirt and cargo pants that boast large, utilitarian pockets. It’s the kind of outfit that screams sophistication with a side of practicality – perfect for those post-match press conferences.

    But it’s the casual look that truly steals the show. Palm Angels delivers a typical tracksuit, but with a twist – it’s designed in a special linen fabric and comes with an overshirt adorned with the brand’s logo and the embroidered AFA shield. It’s the kind of attire that says, “Yes, I just dominated on the pitch, but I can also dominate the style game.”

    And let’s talk about Messi for a moment. The man has always had a quiet confidence about him, but in this gear, he’s oozing charisma. Whether it’s the formal blazer that highlights his leadership or the casual tracksuit that showcases his laid-back yet competitive nature, Messi looks every bit the global icon he is.

    This collaboration is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a celebration of the Argentina national football team’s unity and individuality. Each player, from the seasoned veterans to the rising stars, is given the chance to shine in their own right, while still maintaining the cohesive spirit that defines this team.



    Source link

  • Lionel Messi was fuming after missing that Panenka-styled penalty against Ecuador

    Lionel Messi was fuming after missing that Panenka-styled penalty against Ecuador

    The famous and always risky Panenka-styled penalty kick was popularized by Czech player Antonin Panenka during the 1976 European Championship. The shot consists on lobbing the ball slowly in order to trick the goalie, it doesn’t always work. In fact, some of the greatest players in history have missed this shot and suffered over it. Such is the case of Lionel Messi, who had been talking about it with some of his teammates and dared to attempt it at the penalty shootouts against Ecuador. The shot struck the bar and Messi wasn’t able to help Argentina. However, another heroic performance from Emiliano ‘Dibu’ Martinez helped everybody forget about this blunder. But not Messi, he was pissed off after the game.

    Argentina proves that if there’s such a thing as champion’s luck, they’ve used it all up against Ecuador.

    Speaking to TyC Sports, Leo said this: “I was very angry, I was convinced that I would take it like that. I had spoken with Dibu (Martinez), with (Geronimo) Rulli, I had taken a couple of penalties. I hadn’t practised, but I spoke with them. I had been taking several cross-shots, in fact the goalkeeper dived for a cross-shot, I tried to touch it and it went high. I’ve been trying to get rid of the discomfort I had, the pain, training little by little, feeling a little scared, letting go little by little. In the last training sessions I felt better and I thought I could be there. I felt fine, I had no discomfort, nothing. There is always a bit of psychological fear of having an injury or discomfort, but at a muscular level I had nothing. (Scaloni) asked me if I was ready to play and I said yes.”

    Leo Messi is not at 100%

    It is important to note that Leo Messi is not at 100% of his capabilities because he is carrying muscular issues. throughout the entire tournament, the Argentine captain has been threading lightly and he even missed major parts of the Copa America group stage. It hasn’t been the best tournament performance from Leo due to these physical problems. But the rest of the Argentina squad have always kept responding when he is not at 100%. For now, Argentina is installed in the Copa America semifinals and they are well on their way to another great showing. The entire country is praying that Messi can recover completely in order to deliver another great semifinals performance. This is his Instagram reaction after the victory.



    Source link

  • Csar Luis Menotti, world champion with Argentina and former Barcelona coach, dies at 85

    Csar Luis Menotti, world champion with Argentina and former Barcelona coach, dies at 85

    Cesar Luis Menotti, the former Atletico Madrid and Barcelona coach who also won the World Cup, has passed away at the age of 85.

    The Argentinian icon died on Sunday after battling a long illness that had kept him out of public life in recent months.

    Florentino Prez, president of Real Madrid warmly greets the players at the Austin-LA Galaxy

    He had been hospitalized for a month with severe anemia before his death, according to reports.

    Menotti was in charge of the Argentina team that won the World Cup in 1978 when they beat Netherlands in the final on their home turf.

    His death was officially announced by the AFA, the Argentine Football Association, where ‘El Flaco’ was, in fact, director of national teams until very recently.

    “The Argentine Football Association regrets to inform with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current Director of National Teams and former World Cup winning coach of Argentina,” the AFA posted on its official X account, formerly known as Twitter.

    One of football’s true heroes

    In his home nation and in Spain, Menotti was viewed as one of the greatest heroes in the history of football. As a player, he spent most of his career in South America with Boca Juniors and Brazilian side Santos, before moving into management in 1970.

    He created a pioneering social and football philosophy that, for years, was opposed in Argentina and around the world. Carlos Salvador Bilardo, creator of Bilardismo, who prioritized winning above all else, was using football as an artistic expression, which Menotti-ism promulgated.

    Menotti was appointed Barcelona head coach in 1983, helping them to win the Copa del Rey, Copa de la Liga and the Supercopa de Espaa before leaving in 1984.

    In January 2019, he was named as the director of the Argentina national teams, but was forced to step down as his health took a turn for the worse.



    Source link

  • Lionel Messi becomes Conmebol WC qualifiers all-time leading scorer

    Lionel Messi becomes Conmebol WC qualifiers all-time leading scorer

    Lionel Messi proved to be back to his old self with two first-half goals that have Argentina up 2-0 against Peru in the Conmebol 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

    The Inter Miami striker also passed his fellow countryman, Luis Suarez, as the all-time leading scorer in Conmebol WC qualifiers with 30 goals.

    While there was doubt that the Inter Miami striker would be featured in the starting lineup, Messi confirmed he is healthy and up to old tricks by scoring two amazing goals against Peru.

    Messi’s first goal arrived in the 32nd minute via a shot to the right-hand corner of the goal.

    Just ten minutes later, the Argentine’s name was up again on the scoreboard after showcasing his versatility with a left corner strike with his left foot.

    Earlier in the day, his former club teammate at PSG and fellow Argentina player, Angel Di Maria, announced that he would be retiring from the national team following the 2024 Copa America which is scheduled to be played in the United States from June 20 to July 14 of 2024.

    Argentina sits atop of the Conmebol standings with three a perfect record of 3 wins followed by Uruguay and Brazil.



    Source link