Sports Buzz

Tag: MLS

  • David Beckham jokes about his height as Tom Brady and Shaquille O'Neal 'humiliate' him: “I'm so small”

    David Beckham jokes about his height as Tom Brady and Shaquille O'Neal 'humiliate' him: “I'm so small”

    In an early celebration of his birthday, David Beckham met with other great sports figures such as Tom Brady and Shaquille O’Neal and did not hesitate to make fun of himself by comparing his height to that of his companions.

    Beckham shared a photo alongside them on Instagram. And while the former NFL star is 1.93m tall and the NBA legend is 2.15m tall, the former footballer was left far behind with his 1.80m

    David Beckham pulls off trick in the kitchen much to Victoria Beckham’s delight

    But this situation was taken in good humor by Beckham, who wrote in the caption: “I’m so small”, along with an eye-rolling emoji.

    In the image, he can be seen happy and surprised to see the great height of ‘Shaq’, who at that moment is talking to Brady.

    The Daily Mail reports that David Beckham will turn 50 on May 2 next year, and at his lavish party he was accompanied by his family.

    The former footballer wore a stylish velvet tuxedo, while his wife Victoria opted for a white dress with thin straps.

    “What a great way to start the first of many birthday celebrations for @davidbeckham, surrounded by friends and family! Kisses from Miami!”, wrote Victoria Beckham on her social networks.

    Who else accompanied Beckham on his birthday?

    Inter Miami’s co-owner was also joined by his old friends Gabe Turner, David Gardner and Ben Winston, with whom he took a photograph and uploaded it to his social networks with the caption: “Friends for life”.

    David Beckham jokes about his height as Tom Brady and Shaquille O'Neal 'humiliate' him: "I'm so small"

    In another image, he is seen hugging Gardner, with whom he became friends in his youth at Manchester United: “Love you mate. 35 years of difference,” he wrote alongside the photo.

    Inter Miami players Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets were present at the celebration.

    David Beckham jokes about his height as Tom Brady and Shaquille O'Neal 'humiliate' him: "I'm so small"

    As well as singer Marc Anthony and Hollywood stars Justin Theroux and Fisher Stevens.



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  • Pure late drama in Minnesota as United tie LA Galaxy: Watch highlights of the 2-2 draw

    Pure late drama in Minnesota as United tie LA Galaxy: Watch highlights of the 2-2 draw

    On Saturday night at Allianz Field, Minnesota United and LA Galaxy delivered a thrilling display of determination and resilience in a match that ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw. In a game marked by early goals, last-minute twists, and pulsating action throughout, both teams showcased their attacking intent.

    With Minnesota United seeking their 100th regular-season win since joining MLS in 2017 and LA Galaxy, the reigning champions, desperate for their first victory of the season, the stakes couldn’t have been higher.

    LA rescata el empate en el final I Minnesota 2-2 Galaxy I Resumen y goles I MLSMLS APPLE TV

    Yeboah strikes first, but Galaxy respond quickly

    Minnesota United wasted no time in setting the tone of the contest. In the 19th minute, Kelvin Yeboah capitalized on a defensive miscue to open the scoring, giving the home side an early 1-0 advantage. The early lead energized the home crowd, but LA Galaxy responded swiftly. Merely seven minutes later, Christian Ramrez leveled the score with a powerful header delivered from the center of the box, ensuring that Galaxy remained in contention.

    Late-game fireworks keep fans on the edge

    The remainder of the first half saw both sides probing for control, but neither could extend their advantage, setting the stage for an explosive second half. In the 87th minute, Minnesota United appeared to seize the win when Yeboah converted a penalty with a precise right-footed shot into the bottom corner, sending Allianz Field into a brief celebratory frenzy.

    However, the elation was short-lived. Just three minutes later, LA Galaxy stunned the home supporters as Emiro Garces slotted home a crucial equalizer from the center of the box following a well-executed free kick from Miguel Berry.

    A missed milestone for Minnesota, more frustration for Galaxy

    The draw left Minnesota United (2-1-2) just short of their landmark 100th regular-season win since their MLS debut, a milestone that would have celebrated their growth in the league. On the other hand, LA Galaxy’s ongoing winless streak continues to be a source of mounting frustration, especially given their status as the reigning champions.

    Both teams are set to return home next weekend with renewed determination. Minnesota United will host Real Salt Lake in a bid to secure a much-needed victory, while LA Galaxy faces Orlando City as they search for that elusive first win of the season. This match served as a reminder that in MLS, every minute counts, and the outcome can change in the blink of an eye.



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  • Ryan Garcia makes special visit as San Diego FC make MLS home debut in front of electric crowd

    Ryan Garcia makes special visit as San Diego FC make MLS home debut in front of electric crowd

    Saturday was an important day for MLS. Aside from several exciting contests taking place, the league’s second matchday saw San Diego FC play their first home game as part of MLS. San Diego hosted St. Louis City SC, in a game that ended as a scoreless draw.

    Given how popular the city of San Diego is and the team playing in a beautiful new home, Snapdragon Stadium, the team got visits from some celebrities. Minority owner and MLB star Manny Machado was there, as was boxing star Ryan Garcia. Garcia was born about two hours away from San Diego in Victorville.

    Ryan Garcia visits San Diego FC at Snapdragon Stadium

    Garcia posed in a fighting stance for the cameras, then went about his business. He was sporting a No. 8 jersey with “King Ryan” as the name on the back.

    While this may only be a one-time thing for Garcia, it’s a great sign that San Diego FC can attract a high-profile athlete from a different sport. As long as they are successful, they should be able to attract more celebrities going forward.

    As for Garcia, he is currently preparing for a fight in May on what is set to be an incredible fight card. Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez will also be featuring that night, in different bouts. Garcia will face Rolly Romero.



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  • Lionel Messi arrives in vintage fashion to his first MLS game of 2025 season, alongside Luis Suarez

    Lionel Messi arrives in vintage fashion to his first MLS game of 2025 season, alongside Luis Suarez

    In a scene that has become a familiar sight for fans, Lionel Messi and Luis Surez arrived at Chase Stadium, sipping on their traditional mate, ahead of their much-anticipated MLS season debut. The duo, known for their close friendship and shared love for the South American beverage, were seen entering the stadium with their signature thermoses in hand.

    Messi and Surez, both key players for Inter Miami, were greeted by enthusiastic fans as they made their way into the stadium. Their arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter for the team, which is set to face New York City FC in their opening match of the 2025 MLS season.

    VIDEO: Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo stunned at MARCA award ceremony in Miami

    Mate, a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, is a staple in the daily routines of many athletes from the region. Messi and Surez have often been spotted enjoying the beverage together, both on and off the field. The drink is known for its energizing properties and is a symbol of camaraderie and friendship.

    The tough season ahead

    Under the guidance of coach Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami is looking to make a strong start to the season. With Messi and Surez leading the charge, the team is poised to build on their previous successes and aim for new heights in the MLS.

    Fans are eagerly awaiting the debut match, hoping to see their favorite stars in action and witness the magic they bring to the field. While it will not be an easy year, the international stars are ready to begin a new chapter in their careers looking for another trophy.

    As the season unfolds, the partnership between Messi and Surez will undoubtedly be a focal point for Inter Miami, both on and off the pitch. Their shared passion for the game and their unique bond continue to inspire fans and teammates alike.



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  • Bournemouth agree deal for wonderkid handed debut by Wayne Rooney

    Bournemouth agree deal for wonderkid handed debut by Wayne Rooney

    Bournemouth will have at least one new addition to their squad by the end of January.

    The Cherries have agreed a £1million deal with DC United for highly-rated defender Matai Akinmboni, with the 18-year-old set to fly into the UK in the next 24 hours undergo a medical.

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    Matai Akinmboni has made 17 appearances altogether for DC UnitedCredit: Getty

    One of the MLS‘ leading young talents, Akimboni has drawn interest from a host of European clubs after impressing in the States.

    And with the January transfer window opening tomorrow, the imminent deal would likely make the US Under-19 star its first arrival, with Bournemouth moving quickly to secure his services.

    Seen as a player with a huge future, it is hoped that Akinmboni will be able to provide cover in the second half of the season, as the Cherries look to build on their strong start.

    Since being handed his DC United debut by Wayne Rooney aged just 15 in 2022, the youngster has racked up plenty of experience.

    Last season, he made 13 appearances in all competitions, despite only turning 18 as the campaign reached its conclusion in October.

    It was Akinmboni’s appearances which prompted several clubs to take notice of him as a potential signing for 2025.

    And it’s fair to say he comes highly-recommended, with Rooney speaking in glowing terms about the starlet after he became the third-youngest player in MLS history when he made his senior bow.

    On giving him his first start for DC, the Manchester United legend said: “I think I’m a man of my word.

    “What I said to the players when I came in was: ‘If you perform well in training, you’ll get your chance to play.’

    “He [Akinmboni] has been excellent in training and he deserved to come in.”

    Wayne Rooney was Akinmboni's manager at DC United between 2022 and 2023

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    Wayne Rooney was Akinmboni’s manager at DC United between 2022 and 2023Credit: AFP
    The teenager has made three appearances for the United States' under-19 team

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    The teenager has made three appearances for the United States’ under-19 teamCredit: Getty

    With Akinmboni contributing towards a clean sheet on his debut, playing the first-half of a 0-0 draw with Real Salt Lake, Rooney tipped him for a bright future.

    He added: “I just felt he was ready to come in and play. Is he going to play every game? Of course not. He’s still a very young boy.

    “But for him and for us to see him playing in an away game in difficult circumstances and performing the way he did as a 15-year-old – he’s got a very bright future.

    “I got everything I wanted from the 45 minutes that he played tonight that I wanted to see.

    “I’ll keep trying to develop him as a player and hopefully be seeing more of him in this season and for years to come.”

    And the former England hero’s prediction now looks to be coming true, with Akinmboni set for a taste of Premier League football.

    Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola will take charge of Akinmboni's development

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    Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola will take charge of Akinmboni’s developmentCredit: AFP

    But things could have turned out differently, with the American reportedly spending two weeks training with Bayern Munich in 2021, before he opted to turn down their offer a contract.

    And a move to the Bundesliga would have made Akinmboni the second member of his family to play for the German giants.

    His uncle is former Ghana international Samuel Kuffour, who spent 12 years at Bayern between 1993 and 2005, and played in the 1999 Champions League final defeat to Man United.

    But with Bournemouth flying high in seventh in the Premier League table, Akinmboni will be hoping to become the latest in his family to experience European football, as he looks to help Andoni Iraola’s side build on their position in the coming months.

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  • Inter Miami still wants to reunite Neymar with Messi

    Inter Miami still wants to reunite Neymar with Messi

    Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas wants to continue to shore up his team around Lionel Messi with a view to winning their first league title in history and he knows that the window is closing. Therefore, in recent days he has admitted that he would like to bring none other than Neymar to his team, if he were available. This is because the Brazilian star’s contract is still in force with Al-Hilal of the Sudi Pro League until next summer

    Lionel Messi and MARCA shine in Miami as they honor the greatest soccer player of all time

    In an interview with GiveMeSport, Jorge Mas indicated that they are open to bringing in Neymar, to revive the successful MSN trident (Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar) that was so successful with Barcelona last decade, as long as the conditions exist to do so, i.e. without paying his release clause to Al-Hilal:

    The key word is if he was available. Neymar is not available to us now. I have always said that we aspire to bring great players to our team. We have many limitations and restrictions in the squad, but we have an unlimited budget

    Jorge Mas, presidente del Inter Miami

    “We are aspirational. If there is ever a possibility to bring in the calibre of a player like Neymar, we will not hesitate. It’s not just up to me. It’s up to the player and the league. But yes, we aspire to build a great squad here,” he added

    Neymar is in a difficult part of his career as his move to the Saudi league has been a complete failure, mainly due to injuries. A torn ligament in his knee caused him to lose a year, from October 2023, but on his return he has now suffered a new hamstring injury.

    As if that were not enough, the club deregistered him to make room for another foreign reinforcement, so when Neymar is ready, he will only be able to play if one of his foreign teammates leaves the team.

    Messi maintains close contact with Neymar

    In the same vein, Lionel Messi said that he maintains close contact with his former teammate through a Whatsapp chat. He also said that he would like to have him back in his team, but for the moment, it is complicated. “It’s difficult now,” he said in an interview in June:

    “I don’t know. The truth is that now it is difficult. He is in Saudi Arabia and I think he has one year left on his contract (until June 2025). He had a difficult year, in which he was injured for a long time. So, it’s difficult now. After that, I don’t know. Life takes so many turns that anything can happen, but I think, for now, no.”

    Neymar and Messi played together in 206 games for Barcelona (2013-2017) and Paris Saint-Germain (2021-2023), recording 67 joint goal involvements. While at Barcelona they created the trident with Luis Suarez that won the continental treble in 2014-15. In fact, if Neymar manages to join Inter Miami, he will become the only player to have shared a dressing room with Lionel Messi at three different clubs.

    He would also be reunited with other former Barcelona teammates such as Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and the team’s new coach, Javier Mascherano



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  • Messi and Neymar at Inter Miami? Beckham's risky gamble on offense over defense

    Messi and Neymar at Inter Miami? Beckham's risky gamble on offense over defense

    Inter Miami are being linked with a high-profile move for Neymar after the Florida side failed to deliver in the playoffs, but not everyone thinks it would be the right move.

    Lionel Messi’s side claimed the Supporters’ Shield during the regular season, finishing eight points clear of the Columbus Crew for the best record in the MLS.

    Unfortunately for David Beckham’s side they couldn’t translate that to playoff success, as they were stunned and dumped out of round one by Atlanta United – a team that finished with 34 fewer points than them.

    As a result the rumour mill is turning over what Inter Miami will do next in order to improve the side, and the latest buzz is linking Neymar with a move to the sunshine state.

    The move would see him reunite with former Barcelona teammate Messi, along with Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez.

    Is Neymar who Inter Miami needs?

    While the move would certainly make headlines, as any team featuring Messi and Neymar would, but not everyone thinks Miami should bring in the Brazilian.

    “I don’t think Neymar is what they need right now. I mean, I think they need to shore up the back line and get some additional quality back there,” ESPN analyst Jeff Carlisle said on the Futbol Americas podcast.

    No doubt that Neymar’s signing would create a fearsome attack in Miami, but it’s their defense that likely needs the most help. The team gave up 49 goals last season, which was far off the top backlines in the league, and bringing in Neymar wouldn’t rectify that problem.

    Don’t forget that given MLS’ salary cap and roster regulations, bringing in Neymar would likely make it more difficult to bring in an impactful defender.

    “Miami always seems to step right up to the line of the salary cap and the roster rules. And then they kind of find themselves in situations where they’re dealing from a position of weakness. And so I think that’s what could make it especially difficult in this off-season,” Carlisle added.

    There’s also the question of whether Miami are interest in bringing back Suarez, who signed a one-year deal with the club.

    Although he has shown interest in remaining, there are question marks over the 37-year-old’s fitness given his chronic knee problems. Should he leave a move for Neymar would make more sense, but time will tell which position Miami chooses to strengthen.



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  • Messi's Inter Miami on their way to the Club World Cup: is their qualification guaranteed?

    Messi's Inter Miami on their way to the Club World Cup: is their qualification guaranteed?

    Inter Miami has joined the conversation to be one of the invitees to the 2025 Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States.

    After winning the MLS Supporters’ Shield, the team featuring Lionel Messi is now leading the race to receive the invitation FIFA grants to the host nation.

    What does Inter Miami need to qualify for the Club World Cup?

    According to Gastón Edul, the club owned by David Beckham and Jorge Mas has already been notified that they are in line to receive the spot for the Club World Cup as the representative of MLS.

    It’s important to note that FIFA’s new tournament allocated four spots to Concacaf, which were given to the winners of the Concachampions: Rayados (2021), Seattle Sounders (2022), León (2023), and Pachuca (2024).

    While the host nation, in this case, the United States, will have one additional spot, it has not been officially announced who will receive it.

    Having Inter Miami stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba would be a major attraction for the Club World Cup, and the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami has already been chosen as one of the 12 venues for the tournament.

    Tata Martino believes Inter Miami earned a Club World Cup spot

    The team’s coach, Gerardo Martino, expressed his excitement about possibly participating in the tournament next summer.

    “Today’s result is no small thing because we’re starting to justify why Inter Miami could go to the Club World Cup. This gives me peace of mind,” Martino said at a press conference after winning the MLS Supporters’ Shield against Columbus Crew.

    For Gerardo Martino, his team has fully earned a spot at the Club World Cup: “Inter Miami, given the players we have, could be seen as a strong candidate to be selected. But I believe it’s much fairer to earn that spot through sporting merit, and today we’ve achieved that by earning this merit,” he concluded.

    Participants in the 2025 Club World Cup

    So far, 30 clubs have been confirmed for the tournament, which will be held from June 15 to July 13, 2025. The remaining spots will go to the 2024 Copa Libertadores champion and the host nation:

    Al Ahly (Egypt) – CAF Champions League winner 2020/21, 2022/23, 2023/24

    Wydad (Morocco) – CAF Champions League winner 2021/22

    ES Tunis (Tunisia) – CAF Ranking

    Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) – CAF Ranking

    Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) – AFC Champions League winner 2021

    Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan) – AFC Champions League winner 2022

    Al Ain (UAE) – AFC Champions League 2023/24

    Ulsan HD FC (Korea) – AFC Ranking

    Chelsea (England) – UEFA Champions League winner 2020/21

    Real Madrid (Spain) – UEFA Champions League winner 2021/22

    Manchester City (England) – UEFA Champions League winner 2022/23

    Bayern Munich (Germany) – UEFA Ranking

    PSG (France) – UEFA Ranking

    Inter Milan (Italy) – UEFA Ranking

    Porto (Portugal) – UEFA Ranking

    Benfica (Portugal) – UEFA Ranking

    Borussia Dortmund (Germany) – UEFA Ranking

    Juventus (Italy) – UEFA Ranking

    Atlético Madrid (Spain) – UEFA Ranking

    FC Salzburg (Austria) – UEFA Ranking

    Monterrey (Mexico) – Concacaf Champions League winner 2021

    Seattle Sounders (USA) – Concacaf Champions League winner 2022

    Club León (Mexico) – Concacaf Champions League winner 2023

    Auckland City (New Zealand) – OFC Ranking

    Palmeiras (Brazil) – Conmebol Libertadores winner 2021

    Flamengo (Brazil) – Conmebol Libertadores winner 2022

    Fluminense (Brazil) – Conmebol Libertadores winner 2023

    River Plate (Argentina) – Conmebol Ranking

    Boca Juniors (Argentina) – Conmebol Ranking

    Pachuca (Mexico) – Concacaf Champions League winner 2024



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  • David Beckham celebrates Messi's record-breaking moment in emotional message

    David Beckham celebrates Messi's record-breaking moment in emotional message

    David Beckham, co-owner and president of Inter Miami, shared an emotional message after witnessing Lionel Messi surpass his personal free-kick record during Inter Miami’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew. The game not only secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the club but also highlighted Messi’s continuous impact on the field.

    After Messi scored his 66th free-kick goal, overtaking Beckham’s career tally of 65, the Manchester United and Real Madrid legend wasted no time acknowledging the milestone. Beckham took to social media to share his joy, writing, “So proud to see our players lift the Supporters’ Shield after a great win in Columbus. Another amazing achievement in the history of this football club, and so happy to bring this trophy to the best fans in the League.”

    Lionel Messi scores the goal to tie

    Beckham’s journey from envisioning his own football club to seeing Messi break his record in a Miami jersey has been filled with personal investment and emotion. He has often been seen watching matches from the stands, visibly moved by the growth and success of the team. His words reflect the deep connection he has with the club and his pride in what they’ve accomplished together.

    The Messi Effect: a key to Miami’s success

    Messi’s influence on Inter Miami since his arrival has been monumental. Since joining from PSG in 2023, the Argentine has transformed the club into a contender, already winning the Leagues Cup and now adding the MLS Supporters’ Shield. Beckham’s message wasn’t just about the broken record; it was a reflection of the club’s collective success with Messi leading the charge.

    Messi’s contribution goes beyond individual achievements. With the help of former Barcelona teammates like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, he has brought a new energy and focus to the team, turning Miami into a powerhouse in MLS in just a short time.

    A vision realized

    Beckham’s emotional investment in Inter Miami goes back nearly a decade when he first proposed the idea of launching his own soccer team in the United States. Now, with Messi at the helm, Beckham’s dream has come to life. His message to Messi was not only a congratulatory note but also a reflection of his vision coming full circle.

    With the playoffs looming and Messi’s record-breaking form, Beckham and the Inter Miami family are setting their sights on the next challenge: the MLS Cup. As Beckham put it, “Now we go again and onto the next one.”



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  • Lionel Messi on the verge of his 46th career title

    Lionel Messi on the verge of his 46th career title

    After winning the Leagues Cup in his first season with Inter Miami, Lionel Messi is just three points away from winning his second title with “Las Garzas” and securing the top spot in the MLS playoffs.

    Messi’s first chance will be tonight when they take on Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field Stadium, the team that sits second in the Eastern Conference, eight points behind Inter Miami and with a game in hand.

    Lionel Messi scores the goal to tie

    If they cannot secure first place tonight and win the Supporters’ Shield, Messi and company will then have two more games: away against Toronto FC and home against New England Revolution, although in that case they would also have to see what results the Crew get.

    If he wins this title, Lionel Messi would add an impressive 46 titles and would be 11 ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is the active player closest to matching the performance of the Argentine crack.

    Between Messi and Cristiano are the players with the most titles, although all of them are already retired: Dani Alves (Brazil) 43, Andres Iniesta (Spain) and Gerard Pique (Spain) 38 and Brazilian Maxwell, who has 37.

    Messi’s enormous influence

    Beyond this new title that would add to Messi’s list of honors, there is no doubt about the enormous influence that the arrival of the captain of Argentina’s national team has had on Inter Miami, which would be the second time they have reached the MLS playoffs.

    Before Messi donned the Inter Miami jersey, the team, which began competing in 2020, had been ranked 19th (out of 26 teams), was 20th out of 27 teams in 2021, the following season was the only time they qualified for the playoffs and lost in the first round to Orlando City.

    In 2023, the year Messi arrived, the team finished 27th out of 29, although that was when they won the Leagues Cup.



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