<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSYobJVQxUIwD" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSYobJVQxUIwD" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What made the situation more awkward was the fact that Martinez was standing beside Mbappe's PSG teammate Lionel Messi. However, this is not the first time that Martinez has taken a shot at the 24-year-old Frenchman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, a video clip from Argentina's dressing room after the World Cup win showed the entire squad celebrating the victory by singing and dancing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!"</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-argentine-players-mock-kylian-mbappe-in-the-dressing-room-after-world-cup-victory-544419" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH: Argentine players mock Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room after World Cup victory</strong></a></p>

<p>Similarly, in the lead-up to the summit clash, Martinez resorted to playing mind games by targetting Mbappe. The Aston Villa keeper attacked the PSG stalwart over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America.</p>

<p>“He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” said Martinez.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 30-year-old was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America, football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-doesnt-know-enough-about-football-emiliano-martinez-about-kylian-mbappe-ahead-of-the-final-544202" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: 'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final</strong></a></p>

<p>While Martinez stood out with his superman-level goal-saving skills in the final, Mbappe fared superbly as well. He bagged a hattrick when his side was staring at a one-sided defeat. If it wasn't for Mbappe, the game would have been dead-and-buried at the end of 90 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is still at it in his feud with French superstar Kylian Mbappe. During the victory parade through the streets of Buenos Aires on Tuesday, Martinez was spotted with a doll with Mbappe's face pasted on it. What made the situation more awkward was the fact that Martinez was standing beside Mbappe's PSG teammate Lionel Messi. However, this is not the first time that Martinez has taken a shot at the 24-year-old Frenchman. Notably, a video clip from Argentina's dressing room after the World Cup win showed the entire squad celebrating the victory by singing and dancing. The squad could be heard chanting "a minute's silence for" in tandem when Martinez filled a deliberate pause with the shout: "For Mbappe who is dead!" WATCH: Argentine players mock Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room after World Cup victory Similarly, in the lead-up to the summit clash, Martinez resorted to playing mind games by targetting Mbappe. The Aston Villa keeper attacked the PSG stalwart over his previous statements about the quality of football in South America. “He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such,” said Martinez. The 30-year-old was referring to statements made by Mbappe a few months ago where he said European nations are better prepared for World Cup compared to their South American counterparts. "Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America, football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win." Read more: 'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final While Martinez stood out with his superman-level goal-saving skills in the final, Mbappe fared superbly as well. He bagged a hattrick when his side was staring at a one-sided defeat. If it wasn't for Mbappe, the game would have been dead-and-buried at the end of 90 minutes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FEUDING! Emiliano Martinez continues to mock Kylian Mbappe, this time through a baby doll

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSYobJVQxUIwD" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Tennis legend Boris Becker, in his first interview since being released from prison, has recounted that his life was threatened twice there and that he had to rely on 'blood brothers' to be protected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Becker informed about a prisoner named 'John', serving a 25-year sentence for multiple murders as the one who terrorised him with constant threats to extort money. Becker said John wanted his money and to kill him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Becker continued and said a second inmate named 'Ike' cornered him once. After Becker shouted for help, 10 prisoners came around and rescued him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And then the next day Ike asked if I would accept his apology. I could have rejected it. I encountered him in the laundry. He threw himself down to the ground and begged me for forgiveness."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-tearfully-recounts-his-prison-time-in-the-united-kingdom-545073"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Tennis legend Boris Becker tearfully recounts his prison time in the United Kingdom</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-tearfully-recounts-his-prison-time-in-the-united-kingdom-545073/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The six-time Grand Slam winner added that in prison he was a nobody.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In prison you are a nobody. You are only a number. Mine was A2923EV. I wasn’t called Boris, I was a number. And nobody gives a shit who you are.”</p>

<p>Notably, Becker was sentenced to a 30-month prison sentence for fraudulently hiding a whopping $3 million (£2.5 million) of assets in a bid to prevent paying debts. This was after he had already declared bankruptcy. He owed creditors more than $60 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ve learnt a hard lesson. A very expensive one. A very painful one. But the whole thing has taught me something very important and worthwhile. And some things happen for a good reason," said becker reflecting on the eight-month prison term.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jailed-boris-becker-teaching-inmates-how-to-be-fit-behaviour-described-as-impeccable-report-527125" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Jailed Boris Becker teaching inmates how to be fit, behaviour described as 'impeccable': Report</strong></a></p>

<p>“From six o’clock that morning I sat on the edge of my bed, and hoped that the cell door would open. They came to get me at 7.30 am, unlocked the door and asked: ‘Are you ready?’ I said: ‘Let’s go!’ I had already packed everything beforehand.”</p>

<p>Becker's fall from grace came as a shock to the tennis community where he still is regarded as one of the greats to have played the sport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Tennis legend Boris Becker, in his first interview since being released from prison, has recounted that his life was threatened twice there and that he had to rely on 'blood brothers' to be protected.

Tennis legend Boris Becker, in his first interview since being released from prison, has recounted that his life was threatened twice there and that he had to rely on 'blood brothers' to be protected. Becker informed about a prisoner named 'John', serving a 25-year sentence for multiple murders as the one who terrorised him with constant threats to extort money. Becker said John wanted his money and to kill him. Becker continued and said a second inmate named 'Ike' cornered him once. After Becker shouted for help, 10 prisoners came around and rescued him. "And then the next day Ike asked if I would accept his apology. I could have rejected it. I encountered him in the laundry. He threw himself down to the ground and begged me for forgiveness." WATCH | Tennis legend Boris Becker tearfully recounts his prison time in the United Kingdom × The six-time Grand Slam winner added that in prison he was a nobody. “In prison you are a nobody. You are only a number. Mine was A2923EV. I wasn’t called Boris, I was a number. And nobody gives a shit who you are.” Notably, Becker was sentenced to a 30-month prison sentence for fraudulently hiding a whopping $3 million (£2.5 million) of assets in a bid to prevent paying debts. This was after he had already declared bankruptcy. He owed creditors more than $60 million. “I’ve learnt a hard lesson. A very expensive one. A very painful one. But the whole thing has taught me something very important and worthwhile. And some things happen for a good reason," said becker reflecting on the eight-month prison term. Read more: Jailed Boris Becker teaching inmates how to be fit, behaviour described as 'impeccable': Report “From six o’clock that morning I sat on the edge of my bed, and hoped that the cell door would open. They came to get me at 7.30 am, unlocked the door and asked: ‘Are you ready?’ I said: ‘Let’s go!’ I had already packed everything beforehand.” Becker's fall from grace came as a shock to the tennis community where he still is regarded as one of the greats to have played the sport. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Boris Becker reveals he relied on 'blood brothers' to protect him in prison

<p>Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk have agreed to fight each other next in a world heavyweight title unification bout, according to veteran boxing promoter Bob Arum.</p>

<p>Fury defeated his British rival Derek Chisora for the third time in his career to retain his WBC title earlier this month.</p>

<p>He then called out Ukrainian hero Usyk, the IBF, IBO, WBO and WBA belt-holder, who was ringside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.</p>

<p>Following that fight, the 34-year-old Fury forecast a clash with Usyk, either in Saudi Arabia or Britain, sometime in February or March.</p>

<p>"The two fighters have agreed to fight each other next," the 91-year-old Arum told Sky Sports on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"With Fury and Usyk we're dealing with two adults, not a lot of (rubbish) back and forth. Usyk is a good friend of mine, he's very intelligent and Tyson is Superman, both as an athlete and as an intellect."</p>

<p>The American, involved in some of Muhammad Ali's celebrated contests of the 1970s, added: "So they want the fight. Both of them want the fight and so there'll be very little, if any, (messing) around."</p>

<p>"Now the question is what's the date and what's the site. But that fight is definitely going to happen and it will happen in the first four months of next year."</p>

<p>Usyk, 35, has twice defeated Anthony Joshua, firstly depriving the Briton of his world titles at Tottenham in September last year before defeating him again in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this July.</p>

<p>This September, he said of a possible contest with Fury: "I would really like to see this fight happen next year.</p>

<p>"We do not know what is on his mind. This is Tyson Fury, everyone knows that he is a very crazy kid."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk have agreed to fight each other next in a world heavyweight title unification bout, according to veteran boxing promoter Bob Arum. Fury defeated his British rival Derek Chisora for the third time in his career to retain his WBC title earlier this month.

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk have agreed to fight each other next in a world heavyweight title unification bout, according to veteran boxing promoter Bob Arum. Fury defeated his British rival Derek Chisora for the third time in his career to retain his WBC title earlier this month. He then called out Ukrainian hero Usyk, the IBF, IBO, WBO and WBA belt-holder, who was ringside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Following that fight, the 34-year-old Fury forecast a clash with Usyk, either in Saudi Arabia or Britain, sometime in February or March. "The two fighters have agreed to fight each other next," the 91-year-old Arum told Sky Sports on Tuesday. "With Fury and Usyk we're dealing with two adults, not a lot of (rubbish) back and forth. Usyk is a good friend of mine, he's very intelligent and Tyson is Superman, both as an athlete and as an intellect." The American, involved in some of Muhammad Ali's celebrated contests of the 1970s, added: "So they want the fight. Both of them want the fight and so there'll be very little, if any, (messing) around." "Now the question is what's the date and what's the site. But that fight is definitely going to happen and it will happen in the first four months of next year." Usyk, 35, has twice defeated Anthony Joshua, firstly depriving the Briton of his world titles at Tottenham in September last year before defeating him again in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this July. This September, he said of a possible contest with Fury: "I would really like to see this fight happen next year. "We do not know what is on his mind. This is Tyson Fury, everyone knows that he is a very crazy kid." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Boxing: Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury agree to fight each other, say reports

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSYobJVQxUIwD" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>A day after Bayern Munich came out in support of its winger Kingsley Coman who was subjected to racial abuse, the French Football Federation (FFF) has also released a condemnation statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coman was subjected to racial abuse after he missed a penalty against France in the final of the FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Following the World Cup final, several players from the French team were the subject of unacceptable racist and hateful remarks on social media. The FFF condemns them and will file a complaint against those responsible," read the statement released by FFF.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Following the World Cup final, several players from the French team were the subject of unacceptable racist and hateful remarks on social media.<br />
<br />
The FFF condemns them and will file a complaint against those responsible. <a href="https://t.co/Y4TG65vPJ8">pic.twitter.com/Y4TG65vPJ8</a></p>
— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/FrenchTeam/status/1605198772262375424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Previously, Bayern Munich had taken to Twitter to share a message of support for Coman, who has been at the club since 2015.</p>

<p>"FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman. The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman.<br />
<br />
The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society. <a href="https://t.co/9Mvhrt0Zc9">pic.twitter.com/9Mvhrt0Zc9</a></p>
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1604846562592555010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>France were caught napping in the final against Argentina for the better part of the first 70 minutes. However, after Coman was substituted for Antonie Griezmann in the 71st minute, the tide suddenly changed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-messis-argentina-fulfill-the-dream-by-beating-france-on-penalties-in-the-wc-final-544328"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final</strong></a></p>

<p>Coman with his extra set of lungs bombed forward at every chance he got and managed to sway some of the momentum France's way. It was his monstrous 1vs1 duels that troubled the Argentinian defence the most. His effective cameo was one of the reasons why France managed to claw their back into the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, after the match ended all square at the end of extra time, Coman was called upon to take the penalty kick after Kylian Mbappe. Coman went for placement but goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez guessed right to deny him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time that players of colour have received racial, hateful messages after missing a penalty on the global stage. After last year's Euro 2020 final, England youngsters Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford found themselves as the target of racial bigots who hurled extremely vile statements at them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-jailed-for-racially-abusing-marcus-rashford-sancho-and-bukayo-saka-after-euro-2020-final-426506"><strong>Read more;&nbsp;Man jailed for racially abusing Marcus Rashford, Sancho and Bukayo Saka after Euro 2020 final</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A day after Bayern Munich came out in support of its winger Kingsley Coman who was subjected to racial abuse, the French Football Federation (FFF) has also released a condemnation statement.

A day after Bayern Munich came out in support of its winger Kingsley Coman who was subjected to racial abuse, the French Football Federation (FFF) has also released a condemnation statement. Coman was subjected to racial abuse after he missed a penalty against France in the final of the FIFA World Cup. "Following the World Cup final, several players from the French team were the subject of unacceptable racist and hateful remarks on social media. The FFF condemns them and will file a complaint against those responsible," read the statement released by FFF. Following the World Cup final, several players from the French team were the subject of unacceptable racist and hateful remarks on social media. The FFF condemns them and will file a complaint against those responsible. pic.twitter.com/Y4TG65vPJ8 — French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) December 20, 2022 × Previously, Bayern Munich had taken to Twitter to share a message of support for Coman, who has been at the club since 2015. "FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman. The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society." FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman. The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society. pic.twitter.com/9Mvhrt0Zc9 — FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) December 19, 2022 × France were caught napping in the final against Argentina for the better part of the first 70 minutes. However, after Coman was substituted for Antonie Griezmann in the 71st minute, the tide suddenly changed. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final Coman with his extra set of lungs bombed forward at every chance he got and managed to sway some of the momentum France's way. It was his monstrous 1vs1 duels that troubled the Argentinian defence the most. His effective cameo was one of the reasons why France managed to claw their back into the match. However, after the match ended all square at the end of extra time, Coman was called upon to take the penalty kick after Kylian Mbappe. Coman went for placement but goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez guessed right to deny him. This is not the first time that players of colour have received racial, hateful messages after missing a penalty on the global stage. After last year's Euro 2020 final, England youngsters Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford found themselves as the target of racial bigots who hurled extremely vile statements at them. Read more; Man jailed for racially abusing Marcus Rashford, Sancho and Bukayo Saka after Euro 2020 final (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022: Bayern Munich and French Football Federation condemn racial abuse against Kingsley Coman

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidwXM84BZdbwVE" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidwXM84BZdbwVE" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ahmed al-Salem is a busy man since the culmination of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Hundreds of shoppers are attempting to get their hands on the garments made by al-Salem at his family store in Doha's Souq Waqif. The reason is quite straightforward; al-Salem manufactured the black-gold-coloured transparent robe that the Emir of Qatar&nbsp;Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani shrouded Messi in before handing over the World Cup trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The robe, called 'bisht' and priced at $2,200 was made by Salem's family company. However, none of them knew if it was going to be used on such a big stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We did not know who they were for and I was stunned," al-Salem was quoted as saying by AFP. He added that the family handed two delicate handmade cloaks to World Cup officials, one in the size of Messi and the other to fit a relatively taller French captain Hugo Lloris.</p>

<p>According to al-Salem, Argentinians&nbsp;and Lionel Messi fans descended upon his shop in huge numbers, wanting&nbsp;to buy the robe.</p>

<p>"At one stage, there were dozens waiting outside the store. Nearly all were Argentinians."</p>

<p>The robe is made of camel hair and goat wool and is presented to revered individuals on special occasions. Each ‘bisht’ takes a week to complete and has to undergo seven-stage completion process with different tailors weaving their magic in each phase.</p>

<p>The robe is seen as a sign of appreciation and respect in the Gulf region. Messi being asked to don the robe was a way for Qataris to show their respect to the Argentine for his achievements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/decoded-the-robe-that-messi-was-made-to-wear-during-the-presentation-ceremony-after-the-world-cup-final-544822" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: DECODED! The robe that Messi was made to wear during the presentation ceremony after the World Cup final</strong></a></p>

<p>The moment Messi was presented with the robe, it caught the attention of millions across the world. While several were critical of the garment saying it took the sheen away from the moment, others said it was Qatar attempting to share its culture and heritage with the world, which should be respected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former English player and commentator Gary Lineker commenting on the incident said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ahmed al-Salem is a busy man since the culmination of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Hundreds of shoppers are attempting to get their hands on the garments made by al-Salem at his family store in Doha's Souq Waqif.

Ahmed al-Salem is a busy man since the culmination of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Hundreds of shoppers are attempting to get their hands on the garments made by al-Salem at his family store in Doha's Souq Waqif. The reason is quite straightforward; al-Salem manufactured the black-gold-coloured transparent robe that the Emir of Qatar Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani shrouded Messi in before handing over the World Cup trophy. The robe, called 'bisht' and priced at $2,200 was made by Salem's family company. However, none of them knew if it was going to be used on such a big stage. "We did not know who they were for and I was stunned," al-Salem was quoted as saying by AFP. He added that the family handed two delicate handmade cloaks to World Cup officials, one in the size of Messi and the other to fit a relatively taller French captain Hugo Lloris. According to al-Salem, Argentinians and Lionel Messi fans descended upon his shop in huge numbers, wanting to buy the robe. "At one stage, there were dozens waiting outside the store. Nearly all were Argentinians." The robe is made of camel hair and goat wool and is presented to revered individuals on special occasions. Each ‘bisht’ takes a week to complete and has to undergo seven-stage completion process with different tailors weaving their magic in each phase. The robe is seen as a sign of appreciation and respect in the Gulf region. Messi being asked to don the robe was a way for Qataris to show their respect to the Argentine for his achievements. Read more: DECODED! The robe that Messi was made to wear during the presentation ceremony after the World Cup final The moment Messi was presented with the robe, it caught the attention of millions across the world. While several were critical of the garment saying it took the sheen away from the moment, others said it was Qatar attempting to share its culture and heritage with the world, which should be respected. Former English player and commentator Gary Lineker commenting on the incident said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

The maker of ‘bisht’ robe presented to Messi swarmed with customers after World Cup spotlight

<p>Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Adriano Santos, president of the Rio de Janeiro State Sports Superintendence, responsible for running the stadium wrote a letter to Messi through the Argentine FA (AFA) and extended the invitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Messi has already demonstrated his importance on and off the pitch. He is a player who has been at the highest level in the history of football for years," read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And nothing could be more fitting than for the Maracana to also pay tribute to him. After all, Messi is a genius with the ball."</p>

<p>This is not the first time that Messi has received such a proposal from Brazil. After La Albiceleste won Copa America last year, beating Brazil, the stadium extended the invitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-messis-world-cup-instagram-picture-becomes-the-most-liked-social-media-post-ever-544979"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever</strong></a></p>

<p>If Messi accepts the offer, he will join the illustrious list of players to have their footprints immortalized at the stadium. Pele, Ronaldo,&nbsp;Garrincha, Rivelino, Elias Figueroa, Eusebio, Dejan Petkovic, Sebastian Abreu and Franz Beckenbauer are the current members of Maracana's Hall of Fame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi was instrumental in Argentina breaking a 36-year World Cup trophy drought. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat in the first match of the tournament against Saudi Arabia, it was Messi that galvanised his team and managed to extract the best out of them.</p>

<p>During the final, the little magician was one of the best players on the pitch as he found the back of the net twice and managed to successfully convert from the spot during the penalty kicks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the end, Messi finished the tournament with seven goals and three assists, as well as the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them.

Adored by millions of fans across the world, Lionel Messi is one of the greatest to have ever played the sport. The Argentine's legacy has transcended to an extent that the rival south American country of Brazil is now inviting him to leave his footprints at the iconic Maracana Stadium to 'eternalise' them. Adriano Santos, president of the Rio de Janeiro State Sports Superintendence, responsible for running the stadium wrote a letter to Messi through the Argentine FA (AFA) and extended the invitation. "Messi has already demonstrated his importance on and off the pitch. He is a player who has been at the highest level in the history of football for years," read the letter. “And nothing could be more fitting than for the Maracana to also pay tribute to him. After all, Messi is a genius with the ball." This is not the first time that Messi has received such a proposal from Brazil. After La Albiceleste won Copa America last year, beating Brazil, the stadium extended the invitation. Read more: Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever If Messi accepts the offer, he will join the illustrious list of players to have their footprints immortalized at the stadium. Pele, Ronaldo, Garrincha, Rivelino, Elias Figueroa, Eusebio, Dejan Petkovic, Sebastian Abreu and Franz Beckenbauer are the current members of Maracana's Hall of Fame. Messi was instrumental in Argentina breaking a 36-year World Cup trophy drought. After Argentina suffered a shock defeat in the first match of the tournament against Saudi Arabia, it was Messi that galvanised his team and managed to extract the best out of them. During the final, the little magician was one of the best players on the pitch as he found the back of the net twice and managed to successfully convert from the spot during the penalty kicks. In the end, Messi finished the tournament with seven goals and three assists, as well as the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Brazil invites Lionel Messi to have his footprints immortalised at the Maracana Stadium

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSYobJVQxUIwD" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Immediately after the World Cup, Manchester United have got down to business by tying down Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Diago Dalot, and Fred with a contract extension. According to The Athletic report, United have triggered one-year contract extensions for them.</p>

<p>Rashford was in red-hot form during the World Cup where he managed to bag three goals despite not starting every game. United giving him an extension comes in the backdrop of several big clubs flirting with the idea of hiring his services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi heaped praises on Rashford and said his club may be on the lookout to avail the services of the 25-year-old.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He's another player who's amazing and for free? To have Rashford for free, every club will run after him," said Al-Khelaifi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-manager-erik-ten-hag-makes-an-astonishing-mbappe-rashford-comparison-542188" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag makes an astonishing Mbappe-Rashford comparison</strong></a></p>

<p>"Maybe summer, why not? If he is a free agent, we can talk to him directly. But we are not going to talk to him now and let him focus on the World Cup. In January, hopefully, we would be interested in talking to him."</p>

<p>As for Dalot, the winger has had a revival in fortunes after receiving regular game-time under manager Erik ten Hag's watch. The Portuguese was able to translate his club form for the national team during the World Cup and dropped a few notable performances.</p>

<p>Luke Shaw, coming from injury has been a vital cog in United's revival plan. He is one of the few left-wingers in the United squad that has the capability to continuously whip dangerous crosses into the opposition box and track back when necessary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fred has been immense whenever called upon and was one of the few bright spots last season when United's season was in disarray.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, one of the notable names to have missed out on receiving the extension is goalkeeper David de Gea whose contract expires at the end of this season.</p>

<p>The Spanish goalkeeper was snubbed from the World Cup squad as well and is facing a race against time to secure another contract from United where he has been for over 11 years.&nbsp;de Gea previously expressed that he was willing to lower his wages to prolong his stay with the Red Devils.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Immediately after the World Cup, Manchester United have got down to business by tying down Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Diago Dalot, and Fred with a contract extension.

Immediately after the World Cup, Manchester United have got down to business by tying down Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, Diago Dalot, and Fred with a contract extension. According to The Athletic report, United have triggered one-year contract extensions for them. Rashford was in red-hot form during the World Cup where he managed to bag three goals despite not starting every game. United giving him an extension comes in the backdrop of several big clubs flirting with the idea of hiring his services. Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi heaped praises on Rashford and said his club may be on the lookout to avail the services of the 25-year-old. "He's another player who's amazing and for free? To have Rashford for free, every club will run after him," said Al-Khelaifi. Read more: Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag makes an astonishing Mbappe-Rashford comparison "Maybe summer, why not? If he is a free agent, we can talk to him directly. But we are not going to talk to him now and let him focus on the World Cup. In January, hopefully, we would be interested in talking to him." As for Dalot, the winger has had a revival in fortunes after receiving regular game-time under manager Erik ten Hag's watch. The Portuguese was able to translate his club form for the national team during the World Cup and dropped a few notable performances. Luke Shaw, coming from injury has been a vital cog in United's revival plan. He is one of the few left-wingers in the United squad that has the capability to continuously whip dangerous crosses into the opposition box and track back when necessary. Fred has been immense whenever called upon and was one of the few bright spots last season when United's season was in disarray. However, one of the notable names to have missed out on receiving the extension is goalkeeper David de Gea whose contract expires at the end of this season. The Spanish goalkeeper was snubbed from the World Cup squad as well and is facing a race against time to secure another contract from United where he has been for over 11 years. de Gea previously expressed that he was willing to lower his wages to prolong his stay with the Red Devils. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Manchester United trigger contract extension for key players but one 'veteran' misses out

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Argentina's South American rival Brazil, despite crashing out of the World Cup at the quarterfinal stage have managed to hold on to the numero uno position. The Selecao have been perched atop the ranking table since February.</p>

<p>Brazil won three and lost two games at the WC while Argentina won four games, lost one against Saudi Arabia while emerging victorious in two after penalty shootouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to FIFA ranking rules, a win inside the regulation time or even before the end of two extra-time quarters carries additional FIFA ranking points. If Argentina had won its two penalty shootout matches inside the regulation time, it would have been crowned the no. 1 in the rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina have won two international titles in the space of last year - the Copa America in Brazil and now the World Cup in Qatar. However, they still need to amass a few more victories to nudge ahead of Brazil.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-may-have-lost-many-battles-but-won-the-war-544566" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war</strong></a></p>

<p>France, the runner-ups at the World Cup are behind Argentina on the third place while Belgium have tumbled two ranking positions to land on fourth after making a league stage exit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Argentina in the WC final</strong></p>

<p>Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay.</p>

<p>Earlier, it was Argentina's talisman Lionel Messi that scored twice to put his team on the cusp of a victory before 23-year-old Kylian Mbappe stepped up and managed to take the game to the very end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>New FIFA ranking top 20:&nbsp;</strong>1. Brazil 2. Argentina 3. France 4. Belgium 5. England 6. Netherlands 7. Croatia 8. Italy 9. Portugal 10. Spain 11. Morocco 12. Switzerland 13. USA 14. Germany 15. Mexico 16. Uruguay 17. Colombia 18. Denmark 19. Senegal 20. Japan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings. As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table.

Argentina might be the World Cup champions but they are still not the world's no. 1 ranked team, according to newly updated FIFA rankings. As soon as the rankings were released, the netizens, especially Argentinian fans found themselves scratching their heads as to what Argentina needed to do to catapult itself to the top of the table. Meanwhile, Argentina's South American rival Brazil, despite crashing out of the World Cup at the quarterfinal stage have managed to hold on to the numero uno position. The Selecao have been perched atop the ranking table since February. Brazil won three and lost two games at the WC while Argentina won four games, lost one against Saudi Arabia while emerging victorious in two after penalty shootouts. According to FIFA ranking rules, a win inside the regulation time or even before the end of two extra-time quarters carries additional FIFA ranking points. If Argentina had won its two penalty shootout matches inside the regulation time, it would have been crowned the no. 1 in the rankings. Argentina have won two international titles in the space of last year - the Copa America in Brazil and now the World Cup in Qatar. However, they still need to amass a few more victories to nudge ahead of Brazil. Read more: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war France, the runner-ups at the World Cup are behind Argentina on the third place while Belgium have tumbled two ranking positions to land on fourth after making a league stage exit. Argentina in the WC final Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Earlier, it was Argentina's talisman Lionel Messi that scored twice to put his team on the cusp of a victory before 23-year-old Kylian Mbappe stepped up and managed to take the game to the very end. New FIFA ranking top 20: 1. Brazil 2. Argentina 3. France 4. Belgium 5. England 6. Netherlands 7. Croatia 8. Italy 9. Portugal 10. Spain 11. Morocco 12. Switzerland 13. USA 14. Germany 15. Mexico 16. Uruguay 17. Colombia 18. Denmark 19. Senegal 20. Japan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Watch WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA rankings: Argentina not the no. 1 ranked team despite winning the World Cup. Know why.

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Now, a Twitter thread by a netizen has revealed the tactics that Martinez employed during the shootout&nbsp;</p>

<p>The user noted that Martinez commanded the penalty shootout from the start when he stood alone in the penalty area while his compatriot and France captain Hugo Lloris went for the toss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lloris entering the warzone second meant that Martinez had established boundaries about the arena being his. Afterwards, Martinez gently started accessing referee Szymon Marciniak to the extent he could push his luck with him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Kylian Mbappe stepped up to take the kick, Martinez first went to him, shook his hands and gave an aura of friendliness. At the very next moment, he stepped back and pointed to the referee to keep the ball in its designated spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ball was in the right spot from the beginning but Martinez was imposing himself in the situation. The referee bent down, took a look and gave a thumbs-up to the goalie.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentinas-emiliano-martinez-explains-reason-behind-his-lewd-gesture-with-fifa-golden-glove-award-544811" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award</strong></a></p>

<p>Though Mbappe converted the penalty, Martinez received the message that he could nudge the referee a little further.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman came to the spot, Martinez upped the ante a little and again pestered the referee to check the ball, only to receive a not-so-positive response from the Polish official. The trick works this time and Coman misses the penalty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from trying to rattle the penalty takers, Martinez is street-smart enough to shield his teammates from the opposition goalkeeper. He picks the ball after French penalties and hands it to his player so that they can cooly take the kick.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Argentina is world champion after a penalty shootout master class. At the core of their performance is goalkeeper Emi Martinez' mind games.<br />
<br />
Martinez dominated the French penalty takers, forcing two misses.<br />
<br />
Here’s a step-by-step description of his tricks in the final. Thread. 1/ <a href="https://t.co/iujg2Sk1U0">pic.twitter.com/iujg2Sk1U0</a></p>
— Geir Jordet (@GeirJordet) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeirJordet/status/1604820622047150082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Martinez is not shy when it comes to using his verbal prowess to intimidate the opposition either. He senses that Kolo Muani can be thrown off so he begins mouthing, “I’ve watched you!”.</p>

<p>Martinez's bag of tricks is full of such antics which he has used throughout his career. It is perhaps the reason he has been able to have such a remarkable record when it comes to penalty shootouts. If Argentina are currently going gaga over the World Cup win, they owe a significant debt for it to Martinez and his crazy yet calculated tricks.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay.

Argentina beat France in the World Cup final on Sunday on penalties after the game ended 3-3 at the end of extra time. Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put in another incredible shift during the shootout as he managed to keep two French players at bay. Now, a Twitter thread by a netizen has revealed the tactics that Martinez employed during the shootout The user noted that Martinez commanded the penalty shootout from the start when he stood alone in the penalty area while his compatriot and France captain Hugo Lloris went for the toss. Lloris entering the warzone second meant that Martinez had established boundaries about the arena being his. Afterwards, Martinez gently started accessing referee Szymon Marciniak to the extent he could push his luck with him. When Kylian Mbappe stepped up to take the kick, Martinez first went to him, shook his hands and gave an aura of friendliness. At the very next moment, he stepped back and pointed to the referee to keep the ball in its designated spot. The ball was in the right spot from the beginning but Martinez was imposing himself in the situation. The referee bent down, took a look and gave a thumbs-up to the goalie. Read more: Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award Though Mbappe converted the penalty, Martinez received the message that he could nudge the referee a little further. When Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman came to the spot, Martinez upped the ante a little and again pestered the referee to check the ball, only to receive a not-so-positive response from the Polish official. The trick works this time and Coman misses the penalty. Apart from trying to rattle the penalty takers, Martinez is street-smart enough to shield his teammates from the opposition goalkeeper. He picks the ball after French penalties and hands it to his player so that they can cooly take the kick. Argentina is world champion after a penalty shootout master class. At the core of their performance is goalkeeper Emi Martinez' mind games. Martinez dominated the French penalty takers, forcing two misses. Here’s a step-by-step description of his tricks in the final. Thread. 1/ pic.twitter.com/iujg2Sk1U0 — Geir Jordet (@GeirJordet) December 19, 2022 × Martinez is not shy when it comes to using his verbal prowess to intimidate the opposition either. He senses that Kolo Muani can be thrown off so he begins mouthing, “I’ve watched you!”. Martinez's bag of tricks is full of such antics which he has used throughout his career. It is perhaps the reason he has been able to have such a remarkable record when it comes to penalty shootouts. If Argentina are currently going gaga over the World Cup win, they owe a significant debt for it to Martinez and his crazy yet calculated tricks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA World Cup 2022:Tricks used by Emiliano Martinez during penalty shootout explained in this viral thread

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Argentina and its talisman Lionel Messi entrenched themselves in history books after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar on Sunday. During the crowning moment, however, when Messi was about to receive the iconic, shiny golden trophy, he was shrouded in a black-gold-coloured transparent robe by the Emir of Qatar Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The moment caught the attention of millions as it played on TV screens across the world. Former English player and commentator Gary Lineker commenting on the incident said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt."</p>

<p>After wearing the robe, Messi's blue and white national jersey was not visible with many saying the garment took the sheen away from the moment. However, it wasn't just an ordinary robe that was bestowed upon Messi without any context, it was a traditional Qatari robe called 'Bisht' robe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The robe is made of camel hair and goat wool and presented on special occasions to revered individuals. The robe is seen as a sign of appreciation and respect in the Gulf region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi being asked to don the robe was a way for Qataris to show their respect to the Argentine for his achievements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-lionel-messi-becomes-second-person-to-reach-400-million-followers-on-instagram-544800" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram</strong></a></p>

<p>Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Argentina and its talisman Lionel Messi entrenched themselves in history books after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar on Sunday. During the crowning moment, however, when Messi was about to receive the iconic, shiny golden trophy, he was shrouded in a black-gold-coloured transparent robe by the Emir of Qatar Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani.

Argentina and its talisman Lionel Messi entrenched themselves in history books after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar on Sunday. During the crowning moment, however, when Messi was about to receive the iconic, shiny golden trophy, he was shrouded in a black-gold-coloured transparent robe by the Emir of Qatar Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. The moment caught the attention of millions as it played on TV screens across the world. Former English player and commentator Gary Lineker commenting on the incident said: "Amazing scenes, great pictures from above and great pictures from inside the ground as Argentina win the World Cup for the third time." He added, "It seems a shame, in a way, that they've covered up Messi in his Argentina shirt." After wearing the robe, Messi's blue and white national jersey was not visible with many saying the garment took the sheen away from the moment. However, it wasn't just an ordinary robe that was bestowed upon Messi without any context, it was a traditional Qatari robe called 'Bisht' robe. The robe is made of camel hair and goat wool and presented on special occasions to revered individuals. The robe is seen as a sign of appreciation and respect in the Gulf region. Messi being asked to don the robe was a way for Qataris to show their respect to the Argentine for his achievements. Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down. True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

DECODED! The robe that Messi was made to wear during the presentation ceremony after the World Cup final

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqIqNf9lIZ5gX" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on Instagram behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine magician managed to gain more than 24 million followers since the World Cup began after his pre-tournament tally stood at 376 million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory post after the World Cup win became the most-liked Instagram post by a sportsperson. The post, so far, has amassed more than 57 million likes and has overtaken Ronaldo's post of him and Messi playing chess for an advertisement campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-cristiano-ronaldo-becomes-first-ever-to-clock-500m-followers-on-instagram-536105" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to clock 500m followers on Instagram</strong></a></p>

<p>"WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUv48DLvxd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUv48DLvxd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUv48DLvxd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmUv48DLvxd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space.

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time on Sunday after his side beat France to win the FIFA World Cup. While Messi achieved the biggest milestone he aspired to achieve, he hit another one albeit in the digital space. Messi became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on Instagram behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine magician managed to gain more than 24 million followers since the World Cup began after his pre-tournament tally stood at 376 million. Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory post after the World Cup win became the most-liked Instagram post by a sportsperson. The post, so far, has amassed more than 57 million likes and has overtaken Ronaldo's post of him and Messi playing chess for an advertisement campaign. Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to clock 500m followers on Instagram "WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post. "Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × Messi was instrumental in Argentina reaching the final of the quadrennial event and played an even more significant part in the summit clash by dispatching two goals. After Argentina lost the first match against Saudi Arabia, rather shockingly, it was Messi that promised his fans that he will not let them down. True to his words, Messi managed to inspire his team to go on a winning streak thereon and demolish opponents along the way. Messi ended the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists, becoming the proud owner of the Golden Ball award, his second at the World Cup finals. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram

<p>England beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the third and final Test in Karachi Tuesday to sweep the series 3-0 and hand the Pakistanis their first home whitewash.</p>

<p>Resuming on 112-2, England reached the modest 167-run target in just 38 minutes, with Ben Duckett and Ben Stokes finishing unbeaten on 82 and 35 respectively.</p>

<p>England won the first Test in Rawalpindi by 74 runs and the second in Multan by 26 runs. This was England's first Test tour of Pakistan since 2005, having refused to tour the South Asian country in the years since because of security concerns.</p>

<p>Duckett cracked his 12th boundary off fast bowler Mohammad Wasim to seal the victory on the fourth day, with England finishing on 170-2. Agha Salman dropped Stokes off-spinner Abrar Ahmed with the English captain on 22 and just 19 needed for victory.</p>

<p>With nine wins in their last 10 matches, England have vindicated their newly adopted freewheeling approach to Test cricket dubbed "Bazball", after the nickname of coach Brendon McCullum.</p>

<p>McCullum and Stokes took charge of a misfiring side in May that had won just one of their previous 17 Tests, including a 4-0 humiliation in the Ashes in Australia.</p>

<p>England played power-packed cricket right from the start of the Pakistan tour, smashing 506-4 to set a record for the most team runs on the opening day of a Test.</p>

<p>Four batters Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook and Duckett scored hundreds that day, another record.</p>

<p>Stokes was also bold in his captaincy, setting a tantalising 343-run target for Pakistan in Rawalpindi and then setting unusual fields to get wickets.</p>

<p>Pakistan's problems were compounded by injuries to their fast bowlers, with Shaheen Shah Afridi ruled out before the series with a knee injury.</p>

<p>Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah missed the last two Tests with fitness problems.</p>

<p>But Pakistan suffered major batting collapses, losing their last six wickets for 108 in the first innings in Karachi and seven for 52 in the second.</p>

<p>Tuesday's defeat means it is also the first time Pakistan have lost four home Tests on the trot, having been beaten by Australia in Lahore in March.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the third and final Test in Karachi Tuesday to sweep the series 3-0 and hand the Pakistanis their first home whitewash.

England beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the third and final Test in Karachi Tuesday to sweep the series 3-0 and hand the Pakistanis their first home whitewash. Resuming on 112-2, England reached the modest 167-run target in just 38 minutes, with Ben Duckett and Ben Stokes finishing unbeaten on 82 and 35 respectively. England won the first Test in Rawalpindi by 74 runs and the second in Multan by 26 runs. This was England's first Test tour of Pakistan since 2005, having refused to tour the South Asian country in the years since because of security concerns. Duckett cracked his 12th boundary off fast bowler Mohammad Wasim to seal the victory on the fourth day, with England finishing on 170-2. Agha Salman dropped Stokes off-spinner Abrar Ahmed with the English captain on 22 and just 19 needed for victory. With nine wins in their last 10 matches, England have vindicated their newly adopted freewheeling approach to Test cricket dubbed "Bazball", after the nickname of coach Brendon McCullum. McCullum and Stokes took charge of a misfiring side in May that had won just one of their previous 17 Tests, including a 4-0 humiliation in the Ashes in Australia. England played power-packed cricket right from the start of the Pakistan tour, smashing 506-4 to set a record for the most team runs on the opening day of a Test. Four batters Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook and Duckett scored hundreds that day, another record. Stokes was also bold in his captaincy, setting a tantalising 343-run target for Pakistan in Rawalpindi and then setting unusual fields to get wickets. Pakistan's problems were compounded by injuries to their fast bowlers, with Shaheen Shah Afridi ruled out before the series with a knee injury. Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah missed the last two Tests with fitness problems. But Pakistan suffered major batting collapses, losing their last six wickets for 108 in the first innings in Karachi and seven for 52 in the second. Tuesday's defeat means it is also the first time Pakistan have lost four home Tests on the trot, having been beaten by Australia in Lahore in March. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan v England 3rd Test: Pakistan suffer first-ever home Test series whitewash as England win by 8 wickets

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Abhinav Singh

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.