Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers in history, has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39. The Argentina captain shared the emotional news on social media on Monday, bringing an end to an extraordinary 20-year journey with the national team. The decision was clearly not an easy one for the legendary forward, who admitted that saying goodbye to the national team still hurts deeply.  Messi explained that he had been thinking about retirement since Argentina’s defeat to Spain

Lionel Messi made an emotional return to Inter Miami on Wednesday, only days after the death of his father, but it was not enough to keep the club in the Leagues Cup: a 3-2 defeat to Club León at Nu Stadium sent the Herons out of the tournament. Named among the substitutes, the Argentine captain was introduced at halftime with Miami leading 1-0, replacing Dániel Pintér — the scorer of the home side’s opener — and drawing a thunderous standing ovation from the

Neymar has become the latest football icon to reach out to Lionel Messi following the death of the Inter Miami captain’s father, joining an outpouring of support that began moments after Messi shared an emotional farewell letter on Instagram. The Brazilian, a former teammate of Messi’s at Barcelona, left a short message of solidarity in the comments: “Lots of strength to you and your family. A big hug,” Neymar wrote. The two spent several seasons together at Barcelona, forming part of a celebrated

MIAMI — Lionel Messi has been given time away from Inter Miami following the death of his father and longtime representative, Jorge Messi, with the MLS club confirming there is currently no timetable for the Argentine captain’s return. Jorge Messi died in Argentina at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. Messi subsequently returned to Rosario to be with his family, while Inter Miami players, coaches and staff publicly expressed their support for their captain. No Timetable for Messi’s Return Inter Miami

Argentine football star Lionel Messi has returned to his home country following the death of his father and longtime agent, Jorge Messi, who passed away aged 68. Messi, 39, travelled to Argentina for his father’s funeral after Jorge’s death was reported in Rosario. Messi’s childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, confirmed the news and paid tribute to Jorge’s important role in the footballer’s career. Newell’s Old Boys Pay Tribute to Jorge Messi Newell’s Old Boys described Jorge as a key figure behind Lionel Messi’s

The FIFA World Cup has produced unforgettable goals, legendary players and historic triumphs—but it has also been marked by moments of controversy that sparked global debate. From disputed refereeing decisions and infamous handballs to shocking fouls and political protests, these incidents have become part of football folklore. Here are some of the most controversial moments in World Cup history. 1. Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ (1986) Perhaps the most famous controversy in football history occurred during the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina

Lionel Messi's dream of ending his legendary FIFA World Cup career with another title came to a heartbreaking end as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The 39-year-old captain, who inspired Argentina's remarkable run to the final, was left in tears after the final whistle as Spain claimed their second World Cup crown. Messi's Brilliant Tournament Ends in Heartbreak Messi delivered another unforgettable World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals and providing two assists, including a

Spain defeated Argentina in record-breaking extra time 1-0 to win the Football World Cup of 2026 at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. Ferran Torres, who was named man-of-the-match scoring the winning 106th minute goal that clinched a second title for Spain La Roja completely controlled the match for the full 90 minutes, with Argentina defending resiliently but failing to register a single shot on target—or even one attempt in general. They ended the day facing 20 shots to zero over

Lionel Messi (born 24 June 1987) is an Argentine professional footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. His career spans legendary success with FC Barcelona, major achievements with Paris Saint‑Germain, and a new chapter with Inter Miami CF, along with historic triumphs for the Argentina national team. Early Life & Background Lionel Andrés Messi was born in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. From a young age, he showed extraordinary football talent. However, he was diagnosed with

England and Argentina will renew one of football's greatest rivalries when they meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal on Wednesday. England are aiming to reach their first World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966, while defending champions Argentina hope to move one step closer to retaining the title. The match carries decades of history, from the 1982 Falklands War to Diego Maradona's famous "Hand of God" goal in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal. This time, the spotlight falls on

Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in an entertaining extra-time battle. The reigning world champions showed their experience and resilience, overcoming a determined Swiss side to keep their title defence alive. Lionel Scaloni's men will now face England in what promises to be a blockbuster semifinal clash. Mac Allister Gives Argentina the Early Advantage Argentina started brightly and took the lead in the first half through Alexis Mac Allister, who finished clinically after a

France forward Kylian Mbappe has returned to the top of the adidas Golden Boot standings after scoring his seventh goal of the tournament in France's Round of 16 victory over Paraguay. The goal takes him level on seven strikes but puts him ahead of Argentina legend Lionel Messi thanks to his superior assist tally. Mbappe Leads on Assists Mbappe and Messi are tied on seven goals, but the French star currently holds the advantage after registering two assists during the tournament. Under FIFA's

Erling Haaland produced a stunning late brace as Norway defeated Brazil 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history. The dramatic victory at MetLife Stadium also handed five-time world champions Brazil their earliest World Cup exit since 1990. Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland was equally instrumental, delivering a series of outstanding saves, including a first-half penalty stop from Bruno Guimaraes, before Haaland struck twice in the final 11 minutes. Neymar scored a late consolation penalty deep

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni not only steered his nation to World Cup glory, but also has been so humble and respectful. His most recent FIFA World Cup moment warmed the hearts of football fans across the globe as he reflected on a special exchange with legendary Argentine sports broadcaster Enrique Macaya Márquez. Scaloni, who led Argentina to their impressive 2022 FIFA World Cup victory continues to be regarded positively for the man he is both on and off the pitch. A Special

Something extraordinary began on 18 December 2022, when Argentina defeated France in one of the greatest FIFA World Cup finals ever played. While Argentina celebrated their third World Cup title, football fans around the globe witnessed the beginning of a new chapter in the remarkable rivalry between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Four years later at the FIFA World Cup 2026, both superstars continue to rewrite football history and climb the tournament's all-time scoring charts. The Night That Changed World Cup History Before

Lionel Messi produced another masterclass on the biggest stage as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in their Group J clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Argentine captain scored both goals and became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, helping the defending champions secure qualification for the Round of 32 with a game to spare. Heading into the match, Messi was level with German legend Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals following his hat-trick against Algeria. Against Austria, the 38-year-old

Lionel Messi once again proved why he is regarded as one of football's greatest players, scoring twice to lead Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria and secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The Argentine captain made history by becoming the leading scorer in World Cup history, taking his tally to 18 goals in the tournament. Messi Breaks Another Record After scoring a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match, Messi entered the game level with Miroslav

The FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its sixth day on June 17, with some of football’s biggest stars finally beginning their campaigns. Fans around the world will be watching as Argentina, France, Portugal, Norway, Austria, and Jordan take the field in a packed schedule featuring five exciting matches across Groups I, J, and K. Key Matches on Day 6 With Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland all in action, Day 6 promises plenty of drama, goals, and memorable moments. France

For almost 20 years, the world of football has been dominated by two legendary figures: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to be the final opportunity for these icons to compete on football’s grandest stage. Despite a tournament featuring 48 nations and a new generation of rising stars, much of the spotlight continues to shine on the two players who have shaped modern football. Now aged 39 and 41, Messi and Ronaldo are widely believed to be

While defenders and goalkeepers often form the backbone of successful teams, it is usually the strikers who capture global attention. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, football fans are already debating who could finish as the tournament’s top scorer and win the coveted Golden Boot award. From proven superstars to rising talents, here are five players who could dominate the scoring charts in North America. 5. Julian Alvarez (Argentina) The Argentine forward remains one of the most important attacking players for the